I hope you haven't forgotten us. I am,sorry we haven't been writing ... We have been all over and our internet connections have been nonexistent. In small, out-of-the-way places the connection are difficult to find and we hadn't the time anyway to write, believe it or not...
We left Munich early a couple days ago, and we spend a day on the train, stayed in the medieval city of Rothenburg. This is where my friend, Bill Huisenga, played american football in Germany. It is a beautiful setting and city... Then we stayed the night at a small pension which was wonderful... Two rooms (one double and one single) were cheaper than a triple! We ate way too much for Breakfast and we needed it because of the long day before and after it!
Yesterday we left Rothenburg and headed south towards the Alps and Switzerland. Our destination was Gimmelwald and we stayed high in the Alps where they had just received 2 feet of snow recently. The room was an authentic Alpine house and we slept with down pillows, a comforter and a horse blanket and the sound of the mountain terrain hummed in the background. The place had one toilet, metered showers (we didn't shower) and a grumpy old man for the hotelier...
Today we left Gimmelwald and we took a couple of trains to get here in Florence -- the home of the Renaissance. We reserved a hotel room for the night, dropped our bags off and walked the city. It was easy and cool and the crowds were small because we did it so late in the day.
What's tomorrow bring... Our last full day in Europe... We are heading the Rome early and touring the coliseum, Forum and then Vatican city and St Peter's. We decided to take the nigth train towards Frankfurt and we shouold arrive at the Frankfurt Flukhaven at 12PM for our 3:30PM flight out to Chicago...
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Monday, May 28, 2007
Arrival Munich
Grandma and Grandpa Arrived in Munich yesterday ... Th y were understandably tired and a little bewildered by the trip. It's a long day for anyone beingseries of planes and then touching down and not knowing what time it is at all.
I lef them sleeping in the hotel. They were thoroughly impressed by the first hotel althought it was a little expensive at 100€. we changed hotels this morning to a cheaper one was hopefully as good of a breakfast.
My parents want to get in touch with everyone and they wish everyone well. I guess we#ll contacft each other through emails and the blog comments!
qwe went the Deusches Museum today... German#s Smithsonian! It was great and we pciked a great time in the morning to get there before all the crowds converged on the place. Today, like the US, it is a holiday and nothing, I mean nothing, is going on. Nothing is open and everyone is not working....
I lef them sleeping in the hotel. They were thoroughly impressed by the first hotel althought it was a little expensive at 100€. we changed hotels this morning to a cheaper one was hopefully as good of a breakfast.
My parents want to get in touch with everyone and they wish everyone well. I guess we#ll contacft each other through emails and the blog comments!
qwe went the Deusches Museum today... German#s Smithsonian! It was great and we pciked a great time in the morning to get there before all the crowds converged on the place. Today, like the US, it is a holiday and nothing, I mean nothing, is going on. Nothing is open and everyone is not working....
Saturday, May 26, 2007
waiting
Grandma and Grandpa are on teir way. I just checked the flight tracker and they are currently over estern Canada. hey will arrive 4:30PM local time and I am certain they will be tired. I will meet them at the airport, feed them somewhere and tuck them in for a a good sleep. I hope everything ig going well for them and that they sleep somewhat soundly on the flight.
How I am looking forward to seeing them.
Yesterday was kind of a laid-back day. I roamed around, did some shopping (razors, hairspray and food) and also went to bed early for a Saturday (roughly 10PM).
I am pnodering what we shall do for the rest of the trip,. The things I need to plan are destinations, timelines and, most importantly, reservations. That is the tough parat because without them, we will pay much more. I don't feel, however, we'll be shut out anywhere but I could be wrong.
I haven't forgotten everyone and I wan tot give Jordan a call to today.
I wonder how the dog's doing!
travel can make you feel small sometimes. oday, for some reason, I feel small and isolated... I know my folks are on the way. Perhaps, I haven't connected to Jordan or Sturm or anyone for a time. Also, this is supposed to be Jordan's weekend withme and I miss her. I will make the time up on vacation and we'll see alot of each other. I cannot wait to feel big again.
When one travels everyone is a stranger. Everyone is a people to be viewed with a certain amount of suscipion and caution. I am certain those people feel the same about me too. No harbor is your home when one vetures about the continent unless one makes a true and dedicated attempt to assimilate and ground oneself's into the culture and habits... I have made those attempts and was not unsuccessful in those pursuits.
Traveling fosters self-learning, introspection (as if I need more of this), suspicion, delight, exercise of freedom and mediation. One finds oneself more in touch with feeelings, thoughts, sights, sounds, passing glances and strange occurrances. I think travel heightens your perceptions of everything. I think that is why many great writers were explorers, venturers, wanderers to foreign and far places; they wander to become aware, perceptive and they become intoxicated with foreignest and differnences... I believe I do when it comes down to the gist of the matter. I become all of those things... the good and awful elements of my psyche emerge... my light and dark sides in all the nakedness and in all the unfortunate or fortunate respects. My views, my habits, my senses are attuned to the good, bad and indifferent of the world. Is this different than how I emerge in Dubuque?
How I am looking forward to seeing them.
Yesterday was kind of a laid-back day. I roamed around, did some shopping (razors, hairspray and food) and also went to bed early for a Saturday (roughly 10PM).
I am pnodering what we shall do for the rest of the trip,. The things I need to plan are destinations, timelines and, most importantly, reservations. That is the tough parat because without them, we will pay much more. I don't feel, however, we'll be shut out anywhere but I could be wrong.
I haven't forgotten everyone and I wan tot give Jordan a call to today.
I wonder how the dog's doing!
travel can make you feel small sometimes. oday, for some reason, I feel small and isolated... I know my folks are on the way. Perhaps, I haven't connected to Jordan or Sturm or anyone for a time. Also, this is supposed to be Jordan's weekend withme and I miss her. I will make the time up on vacation and we'll see alot of each other. I cannot wait to feel big again.
When one travels everyone is a stranger. Everyone is a people to be viewed with a certain amount of suscipion and caution. I am certain those people feel the same about me too. No harbor is your home when one vetures about the continent unless one makes a true and dedicated attempt to assimilate and ground oneself's into the culture and habits... I have made those attempts and was not unsuccessful in those pursuits.
Traveling fosters self-learning, introspection (as if I need more of this), suspicion, delight, exercise of freedom and mediation. One finds oneself more in touch with feeelings, thoughts, sights, sounds, passing glances and strange occurrances. I think travel heightens your perceptions of everything. I think that is why many great writers were explorers, venturers, wanderers to foreign and far places; they wander to become aware, perceptive and they become intoxicated with foreignest and differnences... I believe I do when it comes down to the gist of the matter. I become all of those things... the good and awful elements of my psyche emerge... my light and dark sides in all the nakedness and in all the unfortunate or fortunate respects. My views, my habits, my senses are attuned to the good, bad and indifferent of the world. Is this different than how I emerge in Dubuque?
Munich
I arrived here yesterday late on the night train. It was an hour and a half late but I really didn't care for I had reservations and all I needed to do was check it which went smoothly.
The room is quite close to the Beer Garden and the rest of downtown Munich it 39€ and I am hoping to reduce the price on the triple for Sunday night. I will talk to him today.
After I unpacked, I went for a 'Welcome to Munich' run. It was quite envigorating and the weather was warm and felt treemendous after the cold of the north. I ran for 40 minutes (wish Sturm were here) and wanted to continue but I needed to go to the bathroom so I hustled back ASAP. Yesterday I spent the afternoon in the beer garden area . I got into to some memorable conversations (or is that forgettable?) with drucken Germans. They are all too happy to talk to Americans... One of the Germans ran and got me a great city map. Another bought me a 1L, 6.30€ ($8.50) beer. They were very engaging, spoke reasonable English. We clicked glasses in salutation many times.
I was tired and went to sleep early and guess what I woke up and ran again towards Munich's Centeral Park called the English Garden. It was great again but I almost got lost (that's OK too) and eventually followed my nose back to the general area of the hotel and found it right where I left it!
The breakfast was awesome. I was quite hungry and I left after eating the traditional german breakfast: meat, bread, juices, eggs, pastries, cereal, milk, cheese... I ate waq too much but I probably won#t eat the rest of the day so...
The room is quite close to the Beer Garden and the rest of downtown Munich it 39€ and I am hoping to reduce the price on the triple for Sunday night. I will talk to him today.
After I unpacked, I went for a 'Welcome to Munich' run. It was quite envigorating and the weather was warm and felt treemendous after the cold of the north. I ran for 40 minutes (wish Sturm were here) and wanted to continue but I needed to go to the bathroom so I hustled back ASAP. Yesterday I spent the afternoon in the beer garden area . I got into to some memorable conversations (or is that forgettable?) with drucken Germans. They are all too happy to talk to Americans... One of the Germans ran and got me a great city map. Another bought me a 1L, 6.30€ ($8.50) beer. They were very engaging, spoke reasonable English. We clicked glasses in salutation many times.
I was tired and went to sleep early and guess what I woke up and ran again towards Munich's Centeral Park called the English Garden. It was great again but I almost got lost (that's OK too) and eventually followed my nose back to the general area of the hotel and found it right where I left it!
The breakfast was awesome. I was quite hungry and I left after eating the traditional german breakfast: meat, bread, juices, eggs, pastries, cereal, milk, cheese... I ate waq too much but I probably won#t eat the rest of the day so...
Thursday, May 24, 2007
BIke ride
Copenhagen has an intersting loaner bike system. Visitors can use free bike to travel about. Here's how it works. Certain bike (with advertizing of course) are locked at bike racks and if you want one, you put a 20k (4 dollar) coin in. You can ride around wherever and then simply lock your free bike back into one of the various racks spread throughout the citty. Your coin pops out and voila you just rented a free bike.
I put my coin in and got a great (though heavy) bike. I rode it all over the city. I stopped at Turkish market on a sidestreet and bought fruits veggies, meat, bread and 2L water. The owners was extremely nice, and I think I was the first American that he had ever talked to... It was a rare slice of untouristy, untouched Copenhagen.
I purposely rode until I got lost and then I asked directions to see how friendly or unfriendly folks were... Answer..."Friendly... Very" It was a joy to do. I eventually returned to the center of the city and locked the bike in place in the hopes it would still be there after I made a call to Mom. No luck ... it's a popular model!
I put my coin in and got a great (though heavy) bike. I rode it all over the city. I stopped at Turkish market on a sidestreet and bought fruits veggies, meat, bread and 2L water. The owners was extremely nice, and I think I was the first American that he had ever talked to... It was a rare slice of untouristy, untouched Copenhagen.
I purposely rode until I got lost and then I asked directions to see how friendly or unfriendly folks were... Answer..."Friendly... Very" It was a joy to do. I eventually returned to the center of the city and locked the bike in place in the hopes it would still be there after I made a call to Mom. No luck ... it's a popular model!
Off the ship
I am off the ship and it went well to get from the harbor to the train station ... just a short walk.
I just reserved my train for tonight. I couldn't get my accustommed 6-person couchette so I had to pay 20 dollars extra for a four-person sleeper with a basin and full bed. Of well, I didn't want ot spend extra but it might be a welcomed change of pace for me! The train leaves at 6:30PM or so. Therefore, I have some time in Copenhagen to wander and since I have been here once, I know the place (I didn't need a map to get from the harbor to the station). I will be in Munich tomorrow at 9AM with my hotel ready and waiting for me!
I must get in touch with my parents and make sure everything is sound for them tomorrow... I hope to call here soon and make sure they are squared away on everything. I made a list for them and sent in to them via email and I need to think of some more things too.
I just reserved my train for tonight. I couldn't get my accustommed 6-person couchette so I had to pay 20 dollars extra for a four-person sleeper with a basin and full bed. Of well, I didn't want ot spend extra but it might be a welcomed change of pace for me! The train leaves at 6:30PM or so. Therefore, I have some time in Copenhagen to wander and since I have been here once, I know the place (I didn't need a map to get from the harbor to the station). I will be in Munich tomorrow at 9AM with my hotel ready and waiting for me!
I must get in touch with my parents and make sure everything is sound for them tomorrow... I hope to call here soon and make sure they are squared away on everything. I made a list for them and sent in to them via email and I need to think of some more things too.
Slept well
I slept very well. I was so tried after getting up at 4AM and leaving the hostel as to not disturb the other seven folks in my small room. Having a private room after two nights of sleeping around others (night train and hostel), one welcomes a night boat and pure comfort and safety.
The waters are calm this morning but last night after left the fjord area, the waves were big and licking against the sides of the ship and there was a tremendous abound of rolling and lifting and ups-and.downs. I was surprised that the ship is influenced so much by the sea!
What shall I do today. I will probably take the night train to Munich and then see the museum sights I missed in Copenhagen (Monday all museums were closed). I am looking at the train time tables and if appears if I just headed off I wouldn't make the greater part of Germany until 9PM tonight and then have to find lodging! Yes, that is what I will do. Then I can see things and not have to be in such a huge rush and hurried disposition!
I am sipping coffee and looking out the window at the far shore. Last night I put on my two coats, cki hat and bound myself to go onto the top deck (I was the only hearty soul who went out there becasue of the weather) and watched as we passed out of the fjord area which must have been the width of 10 miles marked by a lonely lighthouse and a faint yellow light in the the dim pre-sunset lighting. It was wonderful and validated my packing of the ski hat (for Scand.) and the waterproof jacket. It hard to believe I have never been on a sea-worthy ship before, I can't hink of a time where I have had the opportunity.
I feel much better after a good sleep and stiff coffee. The day is ahead and I will atttempt to make the most of my newly found time in Copenhagen...
The waters are calm this morning but last night after left the fjord area, the waves were big and licking against the sides of the ship and there was a tremendous abound of rolling and lifting and ups-and.downs. I was surprised that the ship is influenced so much by the sea!
What shall I do today. I will probably take the night train to Munich and then see the museum sights I missed in Copenhagen (Monday all museums were closed). I am looking at the train time tables and if appears if I just headed off I wouldn't make the greater part of Germany until 9PM tonight and then have to find lodging! Yes, that is what I will do. Then I can see things and not have to be in such a huge rush and hurried disposition!
I am sipping coffee and looking out the window at the far shore. Last night I put on my two coats, cki hat and bound myself to go onto the top deck (I was the only hearty soul who went out there becasue of the weather) and watched as we passed out of the fjord area which must have been the width of 10 miles marked by a lonely lighthouse and a faint yellow light in the the dim pre-sunset lighting. It was wonderful and validated my packing of the ski hat (for Scand.) and the waterproof jacket. It hard to believe I have never been on a sea-worthy ship before, I can't hink of a time where I have had the opportunity.
I feel much better after a good sleep and stiff coffee. The day is ahead and I will atttempt to make the most of my newly found time in Copenhagen...
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Cruise Ship
I decide to come to Norway and now I am on a cruise ship... a night cruise ship to Copenhagen. So I kill two birds with one stone! It is gloreous! Green,, islandy, pictoresque... The only problem was when I got here I immediately came to the dock to board and didn't really get ot see much of Oslo.
However, I am glad I did it this way. the 6 hour train ride was surprisingly relaxing and I certainly needed to get away fromt he cities for at least a day! It was almost like a sunday drive except not having to drive! it was lightly crowded and I had a 1dt class set of seat to myself and sandwiches from the convenience store to eat. I napped two times, ate, drank waters and viewed the secnery.
Right now I am typing from the 7th deck of the ship looking out unto the dimmly lit fjords on the port side (left for land lubbers) of the ship and the seaa are somewhat rough. I do so hope that I won't get seasick having never been on a cruise ship of any kind before now...
I am alos quite happy ot have food with me because everything is extremely expensive. Taking the night boat (sounds strange) makes sense because then you are wher you need to be and you get awesome scenery for roughly the same price as a regular hotel room.
However, I am glad I did it this way. the 6 hour train ride was surprisingly relaxing and I certainly needed to get away fromt he cities for at least a day! It was almost like a sunday drive except not having to drive! it was lightly crowded and I had a 1dt class set of seat to myself and sandwiches from the convenience store to eat. I napped two times, ate, drank waters and viewed the secnery.
Right now I am typing from the 7th deck of the ship looking out unto the dimmly lit fjords on the port side (left for land lubbers) of the ship and the seaa are somewhat rough. I do so hope that I won't get seasick having never been on a cruise ship of any kind before now...
I am alos quite happy ot have food with me because everything is extremely expensive. Taking the night boat (sounds strange) makes sense because then you are wher you need to be and you get awesome scenery for roughly the same price as a regular hotel room.
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Norway in the making
Change of plans. I have decided to go to Norway. Mom corrected me... I thought they were arriving on Saturday, but instead, they are arriving Sunday into Munich. So... I have an extra day and I changed my plans.
I had decided to head to Munich today and even reserved a room there for tomorrow night after taking the nighttrain tonight. Now I am taking the 8:30AM (thank you railpass) intercity from Stockholm to Oslo, Norway. Then, tomorrow I can take the early train back to Munich. Sounds strange doesn't it, to go west to head south? I desire to see the countryside of Sweden and Norway and this appears to be the perfect way to make everything happen.
Now having decided that, one need s a place to stay in Norway. I have been looking online and not finding much (well.. What does one expect on the day of?) I will find something. I could always continue of the train and sleep upright!
I am off... Talk to you in Norway
I look forward to traveling on the train and seeing the sights along the way. The railpass again has paid for itself in flexibility and cost. I coold have never changed so nimbly and quickly without it!
I had decided to head to Munich today and even reserved a room there for tomorrow night after taking the nighttrain tonight. Now I am taking the 8:30AM (thank you railpass) intercity from Stockholm to Oslo, Norway. Then, tomorrow I can take the early train back to Munich. Sounds strange doesn't it, to go west to head south? I desire to see the countryside of Sweden and Norway and this appears to be the perfect way to make everything happen.
Now having decided that, one need s a place to stay in Norway. I have been looking online and not finding much (well.. What does one expect on the day of?) I will find something. I could always continue of the train and sleep upright!
I am off... Talk to you in Norway
I look forward to traveling on the train and seeing the sights along the way. The railpass again has paid for itself in flexibility and cost. I coold have never changed so nimbly and quickly without it!
Napped
I got my nap and I feel alittle better. I do, however, sense that I am ready to get away from the cities. Each night I have been here I have been in the midst of cities--Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Stockholm. Perhaps it is time from a little light fair for me.
I am probably going to head back south tomorrow. Early probably. I wan to be comfortably in southern Germany soon. so... I am going to make reservations tomorrow morning and head south. Yet by which route? There´s only one it appears-- back to Malmo which is on the express train and then back to Copenhagen and beyond. Maybe I can can to Berlin and down to eastern Germany? I don't know.
I took out way too much money.. I have about 650k which is around 100 dollars. I have tonight and tomorrow morning or so to get rid of it. Getting rid of money is no fun for me-- the miser that I am. Money exchange sounds too risky so I will go grocery shopping tomorrow morning-- fruits, coffee, toiletries, etc. I guess I can spend it... one must make sure to be wise in withdrawing money when one is only in a region for a short time.
What else? well, tonight the living arrangements are in a hostel. This is the second time I have done this is the years I have been here. Sleeping in groups, dwelling together in commons, eating in the same kitchen, walking over each other... I wish I were 20 years old again and then it would be fun, interesting and a fine place to meet others but at this age, one just wants to be left alone so that one can think, rest and refresh oneself for the next day. But I am paying 35 dollars here in Stockholm where everything else in at least 100-150 dollars for single rooms! So, I will stick it out tonight and get up early, dash off and spend the money I saved in Germany.
Please write me if you have any comments!
I am probably going to head back south tomorrow. Early probably. I wan to be comfortably in southern Germany soon. so... I am going to make reservations tomorrow morning and head south. Yet by which route? There´s only one it appears-- back to Malmo which is on the express train and then back to Copenhagen and beyond. Maybe I can can to Berlin and down to eastern Germany? I don't know.
I took out way too much money.. I have about 650k which is around 100 dollars. I have tonight and tomorrow morning or so to get rid of it. Getting rid of money is no fun for me-- the miser that I am. Money exchange sounds too risky so I will go grocery shopping tomorrow morning-- fruits, coffee, toiletries, etc. I guess I can spend it... one must make sure to be wise in withdrawing money when one is only in a region for a short time.
What else? well, tonight the living arrangements are in a hostel. This is the second time I have done this is the years I have been here. Sleeping in groups, dwelling together in commons, eating in the same kitchen, walking over each other... I wish I were 20 years old again and then it would be fun, interesting and a fine place to meet others but at this age, one just wants to be left alone so that one can think, rest and refresh oneself for the next day. But I am paying 35 dollars here in Stockholm where everything else in at least 100-150 dollars for single rooms! So, I will stick it out tonight and get up early, dash off and spend the money I saved in Germany.
Please write me if you have any comments!
Breathless in Stockholm
I am fatigued! I just returned here to occupy my room for the night. It was not ready this morning at 9AM so I headed off. They told me 2 and I arrived about 2:45PM.
I have been all over in the last number of hours. Let me give you a rundown. Royal Coinery, Royal Treasury, Nobel Prize Museum, Changing of the Guard, Nordic History Museum, Wreck-of-the-Vasa Museum. I also attempted to make a reservation halfway across the city for a cruise to Finland (actual free for Eurorail pass holders). I purchased a Stockholm Passes which gives transport and admittance to all Stockholm sights and my intent was to use it and I did.
How I need a shower, shave and a long nap!
Well, truly Stockholm is beautiful and historic and unforgettable! My hope is to see more when I am rested. Last night's train ride and subsequent early morning have put a quick end to this day. I might just retire and do some laundry.
I am ready for Mom and Dad to come over and They are sure to want to also. They are leaning Friday and Arriving Saturday in Munich... a couple of short days away! I need to make reservations in Munich so I might just leave here and head south soon...
I don't have a microphone so I cannot use the Skype software to phone. I need to find an internet cafe somewhere where I can do it...
I have been all over in the last number of hours. Let me give you a rundown. Royal Coinery, Royal Treasury, Nobel Prize Museum, Changing of the Guard, Nordic History Museum, Wreck-of-the-Vasa Museum. I also attempted to make a reservation halfway across the city for a cruise to Finland (actual free for Eurorail pass holders). I purchased a Stockholm Passes which gives transport and admittance to all Stockholm sights and my intent was to use it and I did.
How I need a shower, shave and a long nap!
Well, truly Stockholm is beautiful and historic and unforgettable! My hope is to see more when I am rested. Last night's train ride and subsequent early morning have put a quick end to this day. I might just retire and do some laundry.
I am ready for Mom and Dad to come over and They are sure to want to also. They are leaning Friday and Arriving Saturday in Munich... a couple of short days away! I need to make reservations in Munich so I might just leave here and head south soon...
I don't have a microphone so I cannot use the Skype software to phone. I need to find an internet cafe somewhere where I can do it...
Monday, May 21, 2007
Stockholm :)
I almost had heart attack this morning when I departed the train. I couldn't find my rick Steves Sweden book. I would rather lose my passport ... I got about two flight of stairs away from the train when I checked my pockets and sure enough the book was not in Any of them. So I went back to the cabin and searched my bags and the bunks and eventually I did find it under sheet or two. I could be much worse I could have been one or two more minutes out and not been able to return to the train. Watch your stuff and account for it.
I am still in the train station sort of waiting until the hostel where I am staying opens. The walk appears to be 1/4 mile so it shouldn't be too much of an effort to reach it.
Stockholm remains a mystery to me as of now but I am certain to experience it very soon.
I am still in the train station sort of waiting until the hostel where I am staying opens. The walk appears to be 1/4 mile so it shouldn't be too much of an effort to reach it.
Stockholm remains a mystery to me as of now but I am certain to experience it very soon.
Sweden
I am in Malmo, Sweden waiting for the night train to Stockholm. My shoulders ache from the heavy pack that I have and I have been lugging it all day.
Two things are running through my mind: "I can't believe in am in Sweden!" and "What the hell am I doing in Sweden?" I came here about 3PM local time and have been walking with my bag all over the inner area of the city, and I am quite glad to be relaxing here at the train station. My hope is that this night train is a nice of an experience as the last one but I am not holding my breathe...
I am looking forward to Stockholm. It is reputed to be one of the loveliest and most livable place in the World, let alone Europe. Well, we will see. I will see the city and make my own decisions on all of that. Furthermore, I intend to walk the city, see the outstanding sights and maybe linger for a couple of days. Shall I go to Oslo? I don't know yet.
Are the stereotypes of Sweden correct thus far? Are all Swedish people like Grandma´s joke about "Ollie" and "Helga"? Are they all blond and blue-eyed? Do they eat Herring and sip coffees all day long? I don't know yet but I see all lot of folks that are blond and blue-eyed and their are alot of cafes and I hear many "ya's" and "nooooo's"...
I am bored out of my mind. I have nothing to do here after exhausting my limited area of "walk roaming". I did finally get water for the journey and if I am luck (I am not!), the couchette will have an AC plug for me to make coffee for the cabin. The last couchette didn't have it. The German conductor said she was sorry and that most couchettes do have the plug ins. If you want to make friends, make coffee in a place where coffee costs 4 dollars a tiny cup! I hope there is a limited number of folks in the cabin; if there are some, let them be females that are Swedish and don't talk too much but just enough!
This train station is still bustling at 9:30PM (by the way it is still light out and probably will for another hour or so). Music, noises, trains...
Two things are running through my mind: "I can't believe in am in Sweden!" and "What the hell am I doing in Sweden?" I came here about 3PM local time and have been walking with my bag all over the inner area of the city, and I am quite glad to be relaxing here at the train station. My hope is that this night train is a nice of an experience as the last one but I am not holding my breathe...
I am looking forward to Stockholm. It is reputed to be one of the loveliest and most livable place in the World, let alone Europe. Well, we will see. I will see the city and make my own decisions on all of that. Furthermore, I intend to walk the city, see the outstanding sights and maybe linger for a couple of days. Shall I go to Oslo? I don't know yet.
Are the stereotypes of Sweden correct thus far? Are all Swedish people like Grandma´s joke about "Ollie" and "Helga"? Are they all blond and blue-eyed? Do they eat Herring and sip coffees all day long? I don't know yet but I see all lot of folks that are blond and blue-eyed and their are alot of cafes and I hear many "ya's" and "nooooo's"...
I am bored out of my mind. I have nothing to do here after exhausting my limited area of "walk roaming". I did finally get water for the journey and if I am luck (I am not!), the couchette will have an AC plug for me to make coffee for the cabin. The last couchette didn't have it. The German conductor said she was sorry and that most couchettes do have the plug ins. If you want to make friends, make coffee in a place where coffee costs 4 dollars a tiny cup! I hope there is a limited number of folks in the cabin; if there are some, let them be females that are Swedish and don't talk too much but just enough!
This train station is still bustling at 9:30PM (by the way it is still light out and probably will for another hour or so). Music, noises, trains...
Morning run
I performed a morning run. The 40-minute run went from my hotel crisscrossing the downtown area. It is good to run in the morning. First, it is done. Second, there is no traffic, bikes or people with which to deal. Third, one is entitled to eat a big breakfast and I certainly did! I ate way too much but, oh well, I plan not to eat lunch anyway so I am just stocking up for the long day ahead.
The weather was brisk but invigorating for me. I was actually looking forward to it so that I could see some of the city and set myself up for the day ahead before taking off for Stockholm.
I just reserved a hotel-- actually a hostel for the very expensive Stockholm area. It doesn't matter to me.. But I want the extra day in Stockholm at citybackpackers.se
The weather was brisk but invigorating for me. I was actually looking forward to it so that I could see some of the city and set myself up for the day ahead before taking off for Stockholm.
I just reserved a hotel-- actually a hostel for the very expensive Stockholm area. It doesn't matter to me.. But I want the extra day in Stockholm at citybackpackers.se
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Calling Jordan
I just finishing talking to Jordan on the Skype internet. She was surprides and I hope happy to talk to me...
I am feeling quite caffeinated after drinking some coffee, laying down.
>She (and I) miss Shadow and Grandma and Grandpa and everyone.
I am feeling quite caffeinated after drinking some coffee, laying down.
>She (and I) miss Shadow and Grandma and Grandpa and everyone.
Aprtmetn Lobby
I am taking a mometn to soak up a rare, free thing-- internet.
I just returned from a short walking tour of the area and I am quite tired. I am ready for coffee and a shower and what's better than that after a long day and night?
Copenhagen is beautiful, as promised. It is historic, grand and filled with beautiful people. The city itself is one block away from this lobby which is obviously good. I don't know what I will do tonight or tomorrow yet but I must continue to use up my rail pass. I am thinking about a short train trip and then return here and head out to Stockholm. then spend one day in Stockholm and either return here or venture to Oslo. We'll see... This called "Kamikaze travel" where one night trains in and night trains out. I am convinced of its usefulness after getting an everso brief look at Scandivannian prices..
I just returned from a short walking tour of the area and I am quite tired. I am ready for coffee and a shower and what's better than that after a long day and night?
Copenhagen is beautiful, as promised. It is historic, grand and filled with beautiful people. The city itself is one block away from this lobby which is obviously good. I don't know what I will do tonight or tomorrow yet but I must continue to use up my rail pass. I am thinking about a short train trip and then return here and head out to Stockholm. then spend one day in Stockholm and either return here or venture to Oslo. We'll see... This called "Kamikaze travel" where one night trains in and night trains out. I am convinced of its usefulness after getting an everso brief look at Scandivannian prices..
copenhagen
I am here after a long over-night from Amsterdam to Copenhagen. The trains were delayed a couple of times by miscommunications and mis-directions between conductors and passengers with heated words flying about. But for the rest of us we just laid back and tried to sleep through the commotion. It mustn't have been too bad because I just booked an overnight for tomorrow nigth from here to Stockholm although I had planned to go to Oslo. There isn't a direct overnight train, however
I am trying again to plug away at this different keyboard with: Æ, Ø and Å overtaking the , . - keys. Jordan would be having a hard time with it also due to the fact that she knows here keyboard so well.
I slept quite well on the train. I was on the bottom bunk and had the pleasure to communicate with a Dane mother and her 11 year-old precious boy-- Andreas. He reminds me of Jordan-- smart, engaging and quite able to converse intelligentally on many subjects whcih is rare in most people, let alone young adults.
It was alos nice to see most of Denmark in the mid- morning daylight hours when every color and hue to easily accessible to your eyes... greens of the fields and trees, reds and whites of the Dane flags flighting about, and the yellows from the mustard strewn plains.
What shall I do today? I will check into the hotel at around 3PM (as soon as they can get the room serviced *wink*). Then what>? Well, it is highly expensvie here, imagine a 5 dollar coffee or foour dollar paper...
I should ssave some money and I will. The coffee maker and coffee is worth its weight in gold I think. I am going to drink some coffee, water and do some laundry whihc needs to be done immediately when I take possession of the room. Hwat shall I eat? I guess the Danes are famous for their open-faced sandwiches and although I, as a rule don't eat out during trips, I might just go to a corner stand and find a cheap one to eat...
I am trying again to plug away at this different keyboard with: Æ, Ø and Å overtaking the , . - keys. Jordan would be having a hard time with it also due to the fact that she knows here keyboard so well.
I slept quite well on the train. I was on the bottom bunk and had the pleasure to communicate with a Dane mother and her 11 year-old precious boy-- Andreas. He reminds me of Jordan-- smart, engaging and quite able to converse intelligentally on many subjects whcih is rare in most people, let alone young adults.
It was alos nice to see most of Denmark in the mid- morning daylight hours when every color and hue to easily accessible to your eyes... greens of the fields and trees, reds and whites of the Dane flags flighting about, and the yellows from the mustard strewn plains.
What shall I do today? I will check into the hotel at around 3PM (as soon as they can get the room serviced *wink*). Then what>? Well, it is highly expensvie here, imagine a 5 dollar coffee or foour dollar paper...
I should ssave some money and I will. The coffee maker and coffee is worth its weight in gold I think. I am going to drink some coffee, water and do some laundry whihc needs to be done immediately when I take possession of the room. Hwat shall I eat? I guess the Danes are famous for their open-faced sandwiches and although I, as a rule don't eat out during trips, I might just go to a corner stand and find a cheap one to eat...
Saturday, May 19, 2007
Amsterdam ... Again
I am back in Amsterdam after a brief morning out of the city. I wanted to return here, store my bg and return a water heater to a local applicance store.
My ruck is way too heavy adn I decided to store it. It cost too much for my taste 4.30 euro but itis an investment in freedom for now I can move about the city without the heaviness and fatigue of it all.
Tacking the water heater back was as big as a hashle as I told. Everyone I talked with was rude and discourtesous which I can sympathize with... They are so very busy, understaffed and have to deal with idiotd like me taking things back that they should have kep. It really had no choice... room was limited and I wanted my money back which I will quickly spend if I am not careful!
I am ready to go to Copenhagen. Three days are and were enough. I have already seen what I desired to see and enjoyed the local favor but now that my railpass is valid, it is time to move and move I shall beginning tonight.
the trip back from rotterdam was extremely quick. I took the international-type train whcih doesn't stop at the local cities and we had, therefore, only two quick stops. I must remember again to choose those trains
My ruck is way too heavy adn I decided to store it. It cost too much for my taste 4.30 euro but itis an investment in freedom for now I can move about the city without the heaviness and fatigue of it all.
Tacking the water heater back was as big as a hashle as I told. Everyone I talked with was rude and discourtesous which I can sympathize with... They are so very busy, understaffed and have to deal with idiotd like me taking things back that they should have kep. It really had no choice... room was limited and I wanted my money back which I will quickly spend if I am not careful!
I am ready to go to Copenhagen. Three days are and were enough. I have already seen what I desired to see and enjoyed the local favor but now that my railpass is valid, it is time to move and move I shall beginning tonight.
the trip back from rotterdam was extremely quick. I took the international-type train whcih doesn't stop at the local cities and we had, therefore, only two quick stops. I must remember again to choose those trains
Rotterdam
I jsut got into Rotterdam. The train station is far from anything besides shops and I decided to go to this internet cafe and check on everything.
I have my railpass and I am attempting to make the most of it by travelling around the Netherlands today-- Den Haag (the Hague), Deflt (where delftware is made), Rotterdam and I wil have too see about Arnhem. I must make sure ot be back in Amsterdam early. I think I will just retrun there.
Delft was beautiful. I walked from the train station to the city center. They have market today which amounts to a very large gargae sale with every conceivible nicknack type of junk imaginable. Of course I bought a small knife for 2 euro. Theyb have a beautiful city square encicrcled by shops and bars and civic buildings. Today they have a car show in the middle of the square and it is packed with cars.
I am packing a large ruck. It is full and heavy and I need to eat all my food--apples, granola,gummies. That stuff has a large mass and it can be tough to haul all over. I decided to head down here to Rotterdam. It is a wonderful, bright day to travel so I should.
I just met an elderly couple form near Philadelphia. It turns out that they are from near Ursinus College and I had a real good converstion with them. They are on a cruise ship and their one of their stops is here at the port of Rotterdam. I met them due to the fact that they were having so much trouble logging in to their "hotmail" account". They asked me for help and I ceratinly helped. They were so frustrated. It reminds me of How Jordan feels when she experieences a very difficult "math" problem :)
I have my railpass and I am attempting to make the most of it by travelling around the Netherlands today-- Den Haag (the Hague), Deflt (where delftware is made), Rotterdam and I wil have too see about Arnhem. I must make sure ot be back in Amsterdam early. I think I will just retrun there.
Delft was beautiful. I walked from the train station to the city center. They have market today which amounts to a very large gargae sale with every conceivible nicknack type of junk imaginable. Of course I bought a small knife for 2 euro. Theyb have a beautiful city square encicrcled by shops and bars and civic buildings. Today they have a car show in the middle of the square and it is packed with cars.
I am packing a large ruck. It is full and heavy and I need to eat all my food--apples, granola,gummies. That stuff has a large mass and it can be tough to haul all over. I decided to head down here to Rotterdam. It is a wonderful, bright day to travel so I should.
I just met an elderly couple form near Philadelphia. It turns out that they are from near Ursinus College and I had a real good converstion with them. They are on a cruise ship and their one of their stops is here at the port of Rotterdam. I met them due to the fact that they were having so much trouble logging in to their "hotmail" account". They asked me for help and I ceratinly helped. They were so frustrated. It reminds me of How Jordan feels when she experieences a very difficult "math" problem :)
Friday, May 18, 2007
Heineken Brewery
I spendntoday running around Amsterdam.
I went to the Heineken brewery. Here is a video of the visit
http://switchboard.real.com/player/email.html?PV=6.0.12&&title=jason%5Fstecklein180520071503&link=http%3A%2F%2Fhexperience3.bitmove.tv%2Fwmv%2Fjason%5Fstecklein180520071503.WMV
I have to say it was a great experience and alot better than I thought. I debated whether it was worth roughly $10 to go through and old brewery but I was heartened by the fact that Rick Steves said it was the best brewery tour in Europe. It was also a long walk to get there and after running this morning, I didn't know whther it was worth the effort.
It was definitely tailored towards young adults-- music, visuals and tinkems for all. It was a self-guided tour through the old brewery (they actually brew somewhere else) and there were loads of people--most younger folks and tour groups ambling through the zig-zagging tour. I quickly adapted to the place and everyone was very pleased and happy to be there. I thought to myself that this reminds me of the Simpson's Duffy Beer Brewery :) I felt like Homer walking around. Homer licking his lips, checking his belt and smiling from ear to ear... Germans, Swiss Canadians, Americans, Dutch, French peoples were all there happy to volunteer their countries and their drinking knowledge.
Tonight I am packing and getting up early to head to other parts of the Netherlands for the day. Tomorrow my railpass is valid so I will try to make the most of it. I plan on going to Delft (you may know Delft form its greatest product-- Delftware dishes (blue and white ones)) and then to Arnhem (famous as the end point of the Allies attempted thrust "Market Garden" through Holland during WWII, famous in the movie "A Bridge Too Far" ~1977). My day will end here at 8PM catching a night train to Copenhagen. I am sold, by the way, on night trains-- cheap, efficient and relatively comfortable.
I have way too much to carry. I purchased a beautiful and quite cheap ~$8 dual coffee maker. It even came with procelin cups. The only drawback is the packing... It makes a heck of a cup of coffee, however! I have food, clothes, books, etc. I wil leave the food if I cannot handle it all or simply eat it!
I went to the Heineken brewery. Here is a video of the visit
http://switchboard.real.com/player/email.html?PV=6.0.12&&title=jason%5Fstecklein180520071503&link=http%3A%2F%2Fhexperience3.bitmove.tv%2Fwmv%2Fjason%5Fstecklein180520071503.WMV
I have to say it was a great experience and alot better than I thought. I debated whether it was worth roughly $10 to go through and old brewery but I was heartened by the fact that Rick Steves said it was the best brewery tour in Europe. It was also a long walk to get there and after running this morning, I didn't know whther it was worth the effort.
It was definitely tailored towards young adults-- music, visuals and tinkems for all. It was a self-guided tour through the old brewery (they actually brew somewhere else) and there were loads of people--most younger folks and tour groups ambling through the zig-zagging tour. I quickly adapted to the place and everyone was very pleased and happy to be there. I thought to myself that this reminds me of the Simpson's Duffy Beer Brewery :) I felt like Homer walking around. Homer licking his lips, checking his belt and smiling from ear to ear... Germans, Swiss Canadians, Americans, Dutch, French peoples were all there happy to volunteer their countries and their drinking knowledge.
Tonight I am packing and getting up early to head to other parts of the Netherlands for the day. Tomorrow my railpass is valid so I will try to make the most of it. I plan on going to Delft (you may know Delft form its greatest product-- Delftware dishes (blue and white ones)) and then to Arnhem (famous as the end point of the Allies attempted thrust "Market Garden" through Holland during WWII, famous in the movie "A Bridge Too Far" ~1977). My day will end here at 8PM catching a night train to Copenhagen. I am sold, by the way, on night trains-- cheap, efficient and relatively comfortable.
I have way too much to carry. I purchased a beautiful and quite cheap ~$8 dual coffee maker. It even came with procelin cups. The only drawback is the packing... It makes a heck of a cup of coffee, however! I have food, clothes, books, etc. I wil leave the food if I cannot handle it all or simply eat it!
Early morning run
I finally was able to get a run in this morning. I scoped out the route last night with a long walk and then this morning I got it done. I couldn't get out of bed but when I did I immediately put my clothes on and went out. I was very tired during and after the run, and since it was chilly out my ears were quite cold. It was good to be done with.
I got in trouble today with my hotelier. I ran, showered and did my laundry in the sink. I then put the clothes on the clothlines which I had anchored to either side of the small room. The clothes were hand washed and wrung out into the sank then hung over the line. I left and walked down towards Anne Frank's apartment to see if the internet cafe was open. It wasn't, so I decided to get groceries (apples, granola, Amstel Light and resisted the temptation to buy my favorite--Nutella chocolate spread). I returned to my room and the hotelier was there cleaning my room. He told my the he was upset with the wash that I had done because it drips onto the floor. He proceeded to show me the spots where mine were dripping. Ahhh... not good. The last thing I want to do is become a "bad guest" or "non-polite American". I told him I was sorry and I then took down the trouble laundry.
I felt/feel bad about it. Not because I will ever see the person again but that this person has a bad (or damaged) impression of americans as travellers. Well..
I got in trouble today with my hotelier. I ran, showered and did my laundry in the sink. I then put the clothes on the clothlines which I had anchored to either side of the small room. The clothes were hand washed and wrung out into the sank then hung over the line. I left and walked down towards Anne Frank's apartment to see if the internet cafe was open. It wasn't, so I decided to get groceries (apples, granola, Amstel Light and resisted the temptation to buy my favorite--Nutella chocolate spread). I returned to my room and the hotelier was there cleaning my room. He told my the he was upset with the wash that I had done because it drips onto the floor. He proceeded to show me the spots where mine were dripping. Ahhh... not good. The last thing I want to do is become a "bad guest" or "non-polite American". I told him I was sorry and I then took down the trouble laundry.
I felt/feel bad about it. Not because I will ever see the person again but that this person has a bad (or damaged) impression of americans as travellers. Well..
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Reservations
I am still trying to make reservations in Copenhagen . I am geting the feeling that it will be tough to find single rooms. Shall I go to hostels? No privancy and questionable cleaniness?
Skype Calls
Well, I am impressed with Skype. Skype is a software set that enables person on a computer to make calls over the internet. I tried it today and the qulaity is good and th erates are cheap $0.03/minute.
I tried calling everyone and I hope you received my messages. The trouble is when to call you? I will call Grandma tomorrow at noon Iowa time and Jordan at 4PM somehow(the internet cafes are closed at 11PM Amsterdam Time).
I am still trying to acclimate myself to european time. It is tough I slept this afternnon for 5 hours and I feel abosultely great
I tried calling everyone and I hope you received my messages. The trouble is when to call you? I will call Grandma tomorrow at noon Iowa time and Jordan at 4PM somehow(the internet cafes are closed at 11PM Amsterdam Time).
I am still trying to acclimate myself to european time. It is tough I slept this afternnon for 5 hours and I feel abosultely great
Looking ahead
I am looking for hotels in copenhagen. I see some but they are extremely expesive. I might go for a hostel.
Amsterdam
I just arrived into Amsterdam and I will be here two nights. Guess where I am now? My hotel (and this internet cafe) are one block from Anne Frank's home. If I looked out the door and to the left I could see the people milling around the outside of it. I just reserved the hotel room for 2 nights. It is quite nice and overlooks a busy street. We stayed in the same hotel last year ... It is very close to the Jordaan neighborhood, by the way.
On Sat, I am headed to Copenhagen on an overnight train from here to Cologne (where the massive church is on the Rhine) for 2 hours and then I sleep in a 6-person train couchette. This is wise because the trip is very long and I want to get up to Scandinavia soon. I hope to see parts of northern Germany on the way back--Hamburg, Rostock and in between.
I am so pleased that I made reservations for this segment. I made them at the very busy Amsterdam train station. I waited for about a half-hour but it went quickly for I had a thermos full of coffee and I needed time to articulate exactly what I wanted to say to, whom I believed would be rushed and unfriendly, reservation person. My number was called and I went up, said "dag" (good day in Dutch to make a tiny bit of inroads for service) immediately followed by "good morning" (to let him know I spoke English). He greeted me by stirring his coffee and I thought to myself this will be a tough experience. I showed him my itinerary and told him my intention of reserving a couchette to Copenhagen. He stirred his coffee and smiled and assisted me with warmth and precision; I was surprised how nice, flexible and efficient he was in counselling me on the best route. He actually suggested I go to Cologne and see the "Church"
He ended up validating my pass, reserving the couchette (bottom bunk, even) and forged the best possible route for me given my situation. I was impressed that the service was so good given the large city and busy environs.
On Sat, I am headed to Copenhagen on an overnight train from here to Cologne (where the massive church is on the Rhine) for 2 hours and then I sleep in a 6-person train couchette. This is wise because the trip is very long and I want to get up to Scandinavia soon. I hope to see parts of northern Germany on the way back--Hamburg, Rostock and in between.
I am so pleased that I made reservations for this segment. I made them at the very busy Amsterdam train station. I waited for about a half-hour but it went quickly for I had a thermos full of coffee and I needed time to articulate exactly what I wanted to say to, whom I believed would be rushed and unfriendly, reservation person. My number was called and I went up, said "dag" (good day in Dutch to make a tiny bit of inroads for service) immediately followed by "good morning" (to let him know I spoke English). He greeted me by stirring his coffee and I thought to myself this will be a tough experience. I showed him my itinerary and told him my intention of reserving a couchette to Copenhagen. He stirred his coffee and smiled and assisted me with warmth and precision; I was surprised how nice, flexible and efficient he was in counselling me on the best route. He actually suggested I go to Cologne and see the "Church"
He ended up validating my pass, reserving the couchette (bottom bunk, even) and forged the best possible route for me given my situation. I was impressed that the service was so good given the large city and busy environs.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Coffee Maker
I am upset. I lugged the travel coffee maker all over and the first time I use it and plug it in, I forget to change the voltage from 120V to 220V. It began to smell alittle than I immediately realized that I forgot it to change and pulled the plug. Now it seems like it won't work. I am pretty sure my travel adapter works so it is the maker itself. What should I do? Well, I think that I am going to try it one more time tonight anf then ship it home to save weight. I will return it and hope they give my money back.
I was tired and made a mistake. Well, it should have a built it trip and we'll see if it works. I just purcahseda water heater. It is small and portable and I should be able to strain coffee through it and still have coffee. But this doesn't content me too much.
I will ring everyone tomorrow hopefully. I have a local card but I need to purchase a international one. I think it is a special day in the Netherlands tomorrow -- some sort of holiday, but what I don't know. It is Ascension Day. Everyone has it off and it is a national holiday.
I was tired and made a mistake. Well, it should have a built it trip and we'll see if it works. I just purcahseda water heater. It is small and portable and I should be able to strain coffee through it and still have coffee. But this doesn't content me too much.
I will ring everyone tomorrow hopefully. I have a local card but I need to purchase a international one. I think it is a special day in the Netherlands tomorrow -- some sort of holiday, but what I don't know. It is Ascension Day. Everyone has it off and it is a national holiday.
Haarlem
I have made it here. I am quite pleased to be here, obviously. The trip was good and pleasant. I had my flights changed since my orginal flight from CR to minneapolis was delayed and I then got a direct flight from minneapolis to amsterdam. That's good, for I didn't have to change in Newark. I was fervently hoping for a first-class upgrade but it didn't happen because the second flight was packed full of travellers.
Well, I am not as tired as I thought I would be. I have everything in my bag (food, clothes, etc.)so I am content. My hotel for tonight is right across the street and I can get in very soon (12PM) to nap.
A fun thing happened in Mineeapolis airport. I had a long lay-over, and I was sitting there having a coffee and looked up. I recognized a face I had seen on TV. I saw the face of an actor who is on one of my favorite HBO series "Big Love". He was ordering a coffee, and I asked him if I was right. Are you this actor (the big, wide, "flat-topped hair dewed, side-kick of Bill Paxton on the series)? He was very nice and said in the affirmative that he was. I asked him if he got this from alot of people as he journeyed along and he said "no, not often at all". He seemed genuinely pleased that I recognized him and he shook my hand and introduced me to his daughter... Ï fianlly asked him if he could let me in on any of the secrets in the 2nd season starting next month... He politely declined with a smile.
I am having a hard time on this strange keyboard. There is no english spell-check too. I hope you can understand my pecking...
Please comment on this blog.
I will attempt to call, email or whatever to each on you when I can. I am going out tonight to get a phonecard to call and I hope they work. I will find times to call; It appears I will try to call at 4PM Central Time to catch everyone.
It is good to be here. The weather is cold however and somewhat rainy. Yet the city is tranquil and filled with morning bicycists darting to and fro. What will I do for the next couple hours? I don't feel like going to Amsterdam so maybe I will go for a long walk if it stops raining. How the bed and shower will feel good in the near future.
I should make a coffee in the travel pot, curl up on the bed and relax then tonight I will have renewed focus and verve.
I need to make reservations for tomorrow night. Hotel Carillon where I am staying tonight is booked tomorrow therefore reservations must be made somehere else for tomorrow. They want €60 ($81) for tomorrow here I told her that I cannot afford it and she wouldn't budge. Oh well... I can find other spots for much less.
Well, I am not as tired as I thought I would be. I have everything in my bag (food, clothes, etc.)so I am content. My hotel for tonight is right across the street and I can get in very soon (12PM) to nap.
A fun thing happened in Mineeapolis airport. I had a long lay-over, and I was sitting there having a coffee and looked up. I recognized a face I had seen on TV. I saw the face of an actor who is on one of my favorite HBO series "Big Love". He was ordering a coffee, and I asked him if I was right. Are you this actor (the big, wide, "flat-topped hair dewed, side-kick of Bill Paxton on the series)? He was very nice and said in the affirmative that he was. I asked him if he got this from alot of people as he journeyed along and he said "no, not often at all". He seemed genuinely pleased that I recognized him and he shook my hand and introduced me to his daughter... Ï fianlly asked him if he could let me in on any of the secrets in the 2nd season starting next month... He politely declined with a smile.
I am having a hard time on this strange keyboard. There is no english spell-check too. I hope you can understand my pecking...
Please comment on this blog.
I will attempt to call, email or whatever to each on you when I can. I am going out tonight to get a phonecard to call and I hope they work. I will find times to call; It appears I will try to call at 4PM Central Time to catch everyone.
It is good to be here. The weather is cold however and somewhat rainy. Yet the city is tranquil and filled with morning bicycists darting to and fro. What will I do for the next couple hours? I don't feel like going to Amsterdam so maybe I will go for a long walk if it stops raining. How the bed and shower will feel good in the near future.
I should make a coffee in the travel pot, curl up on the bed and relax then tonight I will have renewed focus and verve.
I need to make reservations for tomorrow night. Hotel Carillon where I am staying tonight is booked tomorrow therefore reservations must be made somehere else for tomorrow. They want €60 ($81) for tomorrow here I told her that I cannot afford it and she wouldn't budge. Oh well... I can find other spots for much less.
Monday, May 14, 2007
Packed bag
I am finally ready to depart after a long day of packing and repacking and shopping and back-and-forth. the bag is almost packed completely and it appears that I will be at about 27 lbs for the one bag that I am taking.
Tomorrow Grandma Shirley is taking me to the Cedar Rapids airport very early. I guess we are leaving at 5AM so that I can be at the terminal at 6AM. The flight is set at 8:15. It is always good to be ahead of time, however.
What have a packed? I packed what I normally take (this is my fourth trip to Europe thus far): socks, underwear, shirts, pants, toiletries, travel books/maps, coats, running gear, mp3 player, journal, reading material, camera, gum, water bottle, . All of this in one bag, you mind.
What have I changed? I am taking two pairs of shoes for the first time-- I might be sorry if the bag is weighing me down. I am also packing NY Times crosswords, two coats instead of one, a tripod for the camera, ski hat for Scandinavia. I decided not to take shaving gear for I will buy it there.
How I will miss everyone especially Jordan. But, I will be in touch through email, blog and phone calls. If anyone needs to contact me, email me at jason.stecklein@gmail.com. I will respond ASAP. Please add your comments on the blog also for I can respond on the blog.
I am flying from Cedar Rapids to Minneapolis then on to Newark and finally from Newark to Amsterdam. I am staying in one of my favorite spots... Haarlem, Netherlands. It is a lovely, quaint city near to Amsterdam and the last time I was there I ran into Brad Pitt and the crew when they were filming "Ocean's Twelve" three years ago.
Tomorrow Grandma Shirley is taking me to the Cedar Rapids airport very early. I guess we are leaving at 5AM so that I can be at the terminal at 6AM. The flight is set at 8:15. It is always good to be ahead of time, however.
What have a packed? I packed what I normally take (this is my fourth trip to Europe thus far): socks, underwear, shirts, pants, toiletries, travel books/maps, coats, running gear, mp3 player, journal, reading material, camera, gum, water bottle, . All of this in one bag, you mind.
What have I changed? I am taking two pairs of shoes for the first time-- I might be sorry if the bag is weighing me down. I am also packing NY Times crosswords, two coats instead of one, a tripod for the camera, ski hat for Scandinavia. I decided not to take shaving gear for I will buy it there.
How I will miss everyone especially Jordan. But, I will be in touch through email, blog and phone calls. If anyone needs to contact me, email me at jason.stecklein@gmail.com. I will respond ASAP. Please add your comments on the blog also for I can respond on the blog.
I am flying from Cedar Rapids to Minneapolis then on to Newark and finally from Newark to Amsterdam. I am staying in one of my favorite spots... Haarlem, Netherlands. It is a lovely, quaint city near to Amsterdam and the last time I was there I ran into Brad Pitt and the crew when they were filming "Ocean's Twelve" three years ago.
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