Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Roma, day one! When we checked in to our hostel yesterday, they gave us a map of Rome and pretty much a route to take to see the sights. It was great! We were also told that Vatican would be better on Tuesday and rest of Rome on Wednesday because the pope gives his Wednesday address at the Vatican and it would be super busy. We had to check out this morning but were told just to leave our bags in the room, the key on the bed. Well, this older Italian lady who presumably cleans the rooms, came by and was telling us we couldn’t leave our bags and had to take them. She was confused as to why we left the key on the bed and just kind of yelling random Italian things. She didn’t speak a word of English so we just decided to comply and take our bags to reception to make life easier. So we grabbed our things, Heather took the elevator first (only fits one of us with all of our bags) and I waited for her to send it back up. In the meantime, the Italian lady had called the main reception and was talking to them and pointing at me. HAHA! She called me to come to the phone as I was about to get in the elevator. So I made my way to the phone and spoke to guy in reception. He said we could leave our bags that it was a misunderstanding but Heather had already left and I was still wearing my pack so we just brought them down anyhow. The people in reception were great and we all had a good laugh about it. Then we grabbed our free breakfast at the cafe around the corner. It was a homemade croissant and cafe or cappuccino. It was really yummy! A traditional Italian breakfast! We came back to use the internet for a little while since we don’t have wifi and needed to make some bookings/check our email. So by early afternoon we were again hungry and ready to go to the Vatican. We stopped at this little place on the way to the train station and everything looked so good. We ended up sharing lasagne, stuffed tomatoes and pizza and generous helpings of all. We were so stuffed after that and had to get to the Vatican before we didn’t make it. So we took the bus to the Vatican and were told by others that it is a good idea to do a walking tour so you skip the lines and actually know what you are looking at and for. So we joined this Californian girls tour and were the first to sign up. So we had to wait until a group was formed. It was ridiculous, in total we ended up waiting almost 2 hours before the tour started. We had some real winners in our group too. There was this mother/daughter from California and they were super dense. They forgot something everywhere we stopped and asked the most ridiculous questions. The guide would just finish explaining something and she would ask something that she had just said. We were really annoyed. They were also the last to arrive and would leave the tour to go to the souvenir shops...we all had to wait for them. It was a big waste of our day. The tour as a whole was really good though and the guide was great! However, we didn’t get to go up St. Peter’s basilica because it closed at 5pm and we missed it. We went down into the catacombs where all of the pope’s tombs are kept. It was really neat. At John Paul II’s tomb there was a security guard and a roped off area for people to pray or pay respect in front of the tomb. Quite interesting! We weren’t allowed to take pictures down there but we did everywhere except at JP II because the guard wouldn’t let you. It was the same in the Sistine chapel, you weren’t allowed any videography or photography but people were anyhow. It was also supposed to be completely silent, and wasn’t and the dress code of covered shoulders and knees wasn’t strictly enforced. There was a “situation” though! There was a young Aussie guy who was wearing a “wife beater” shirt and short shorts. He had to buy a scarf for his shoulders and to wear around his waist to cover his knees. The guide said it would be fine and it was only for St. Paul’s church and the Sistine chapel. Well, when we got through the security check and were on our way into the Vatican museum, a security guard came over and told the guide that he wouldn’t accept that dress. The guy put on the scarves and still the guy wouldn’t allow it. Which, he was annoyed about because it was fine for girls and should be the same treatment but obviously wasn’t. After much discussion, the man said the guy would have to go back out and get a t-shirt and then could be allowed in. The guy was embarrassed and angry so he left and met with the tour manager to get his refund. It was unfortunate but I guess that’s what you get for wearing short shorts. Haha! Our guide later told us that the guard was actually just demoted to a lesser power position at Vatican and was on a bit of a power trip. The Aussie guy was quite built and she thinks he was intimidated by him and had to use his “power” to make himself feel superior. It was pretty dramatic but our day was good! After the tour and then the catacombs we peeked into the gift shop, mailed some postcards from Vatican post and had a look inside of St. Peter’s basilica. It was a massive well I guess it should be since it is the biggest Roman Catholic Church in the world. It had so much marble and gold in it, it was overwhelming. Really amazing! The alter was really big and neat that St. Peter is actually buried under it. It even had confessional booths! We were both quite overwhelmed after seeing it all! Heather’s favourite part was the basilica and mine the funny looking Swiss guards and we both really loved the Sistine chapel. So much history and Michelangelo was quite the interesting character. To look at the ceiling of the Sistine chapel and the alter wall with “The last judgement” was spectacular. It took him a total of 4 years to paint the ceiling and 6 years to paint “the last judgement” so he spent 10 years in the Sistine chapel and didn’t want to do it to begin with. Painting was also not his specialty, he was a sculptor by trade and hated doing these paintings. It was funny to see the subtle paybacks he incorporated into his paintings. There is a bare bum facing down over the Pope’s seat in the Sistine chapel and a few more things. Pretty incredible! Vatican done! We went down to Sant Angelo castle and took a little look around. We wandered back towards the bus stop and Heather bartered for a new cheap pair of sunnies and we found some Piazza’s to look around. It was neat! We ended up in some back alley’s lined with shops and restaurants. We finally found one that we decided to stop at for supper. It was really cute and had an outdoor terrace, like all the rest! We were convinced to order the appetizer special which was massive. It had bruscetta, prosciutto, salami, mozzarella, tomatoes, and melon. It was amazing but really big. We also had pasta plates coming each. Oy vei! Another gluttonous meal! But like they say, ‘When in Rome’! We also had a nice bottle of wine and some limoncello to wash it all down. We walked through the streets some more after dinner and ended up at Piazza Novana. It had street performers, artists, scam artists and heaps of tourists. We got scammed into paying for these string bracelets by this guy on the street. He wanted 5 euro but we refused to pay for it, since we didn’t want them in the first place and said no heaps of times. We ended up giving him 2. 46 euro since it was all I could discretely dig out of my purse, since yes there are pickpockets everywhere. After, we headed back to the hostel, had a beer with the manager and headed to our new dorm room. There was a guy from Hong Kong in our room and one other, who was MIA. We met a few Canadians down the hall since we all (8) had to share one bathroom. We had a pretty quiet night and headed for bed.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Sweat trains!!!
Monday, August 23, 2010
Our ferry docked at about 930am and we had to figure out how to get to the train station. We had until 2pm to find out how so we were in no real hurry. We found a public bus that runs from the ferry to the train station. The boys were headed to the airport but had to go to the train station to get to the airport. So we all waited until the crowds died down so we weren’t crammed on the overstuffed bus. In the meantime, the boys had a morning beer. Heather and I were feeling pretty crummy from the lack of sleep and the impending hangover. Adam got a call and got some bad news so we were off to the train station to all have a beer together, to make him feel better. While we were there, Simon got a call that his grandfather had passed away! So the drinks were definitely necessary!!! The boys however, had a plane to catch and had to get to the airport. So, we said our goodbye’s and headed to our train platform. I fell asleep at the platform and woke up just as the train pulled in. Grabbed my things and headed for our seats. All of Italy has reserved seating which is really annoying because you have to reserve everything. Thank goodness we did it all in Vienna before we left for Greece but still, madness. There was no place to put our bags and all the seats were full. The train had no aircon or airflow for that matter and we sweat for 4 hours straight to Rome. It was really disgusting!! Anyhow, we were thrilled to be in Rome and we knew that our hostel was really close to the train station. We grabbed a bite to eat (shame moment...we had McDonalds...and regretted it after!) After dinner, we headed to our hostel. It was a great place. The reception was in an internet cafe and Laundromat so we checked in, got a welcome bottle of wine and were told that there was a problem with our room so we were upgraded to a double for free for the one night! AWESOME! We really needed the sleep so we were thrilled! I did a load of laundry, we both showered and fell asleep.
Our ferry docked at about 930am and we had to figure out how to get to the train station. We had until 2pm to find out how so we were in no real hurry. We found a public bus that runs from the ferry to the train station. The boys were headed to the airport but had to go to the train station to get to the airport. So we all waited until the crowds died down so we weren’t crammed on the overstuffed bus. In the meantime, the boys had a morning beer. Heather and I were feeling pretty crummy from the lack of sleep and the impending hangover. Adam got a call and got some bad news so we were off to the train station to all have a beer together, to make him feel better. While we were there, Simon got a call that his grandfather had passed away! So the drinks were definitely necessary!!! The boys however, had a plane to catch and had to get to the airport. So, we said our goodbye’s and headed to our train platform. I fell asleep at the platform and woke up just as the train pulled in. Grabbed my things and headed for our seats. All of Italy has reserved seating which is really annoying because you have to reserve everything. Thank goodness we did it all in Vienna before we left for Greece but still, madness. There was no place to put our bags and all the seats were full. The train had no aircon or airflow for that matter and we sweat for 4 hours straight to Rome. It was really disgusting!! Anyhow, we were thrilled to be in Rome and we knew that our hostel was really close to the train station. We grabbed a bite to eat (shame moment...we had McDonalds...and regretted it after!) After dinner, we headed to our hostel. It was a great place. The reception was in an internet cafe and Laundromat so we checked in, got a welcome bottle of wine and were told that there was a problem with our room so we were upgraded to a double for free for the one night! AWESOME! We really needed the sleep so we were thrilled! I did a load of laundry, we both showered and fell asleep.
TOGA...the aftermath!!!
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Last night was quite the late night and we had very little sleep which made check out the next morning by 9 am quite interesting as well. We had to just shove our things into our packs and organize it better later. So many bags and Heather was still wearing her toga ! We had a pretty quiet day, just chilled in the reception area with some people and had some quiet time at the beach too. It seemed to be a recovery day for everyone at the resort...a lot of hung over people. It was kind of a long day, we had to wait for our bus which didn’t leave until 930pm and we had the whole day to kill without having a place of our own. We made the best of it I guess! We snuck into dinner too, we weren’t supposed to get supper tonight but we just walked down and if you pretend like you belong than they don’t question it. Heather was carrying down some cushions for one of the guys who worked there and the security dude was mad and wouldn’t let her take them in, but it was a distraction at least to get us in. Hehe! So we ate really quickly and had to make our way back up the long staircase to catch our shuttle. This Argentinean guy we had met on our first day was also taking the night ferry to Bari so we hung out with him at the port. We also ran into a few guys who we had briefly met after the booze cruise just in passing Adam and Simon. They were taking the same ferry too so we all hung out together. What a blast they were! They were two Aussies who were travelling together and had just recently got off of this bus they were taking with their friends. It is a converted school bus that they bought for like 4000 quid and put another 7000 quid into renovating it and it sounded amazing. So they were now travelling via normal transportation means. So we boarded the wrong ferry, heading to Brindisi, and were told to get off. The boat we were looking for arrived not long after and we were off. Since we had all booked deck tickets and didn’t have a seat on the boat we decided to go check out the outside deck. It was a really hot night and some fresh air was really nice. We were told very different things. The crew were not being very kind to us. They first told us we weren’t allowed into the lounge because we had bags but there were people just let in ahead of us with bigger bags and we only had our day packs with us. Then we asked where the bar was thinking fine if we can’t sit in the lounge we’ll go to the bar. It was in the lounge! So reluctantly he let us in. We grabbed a few brews and went up to the deck. We were told to go all the way up the stairs and out. When we reached the top of the stairs, we were told that we weren’t allowed up there and had to go down to get outside. Then when we went outside, Simon asked for better directions and we were sent back upstairs! So, we just went up and out as quickly as possible so we didn’t have any more confusing directing. When we got outside, we realized we were on a helipad! Haha so we had some beers and chatted on the helipad! The boys were so funny and made us laugh the entire time. After a few beers and at about 330am, we decided it was cold and we were tired so we went to find somewhere to lie down. On our way we also grabbed another beer! We slept in the hallway for a little while and by sleeping I mean, sat and chatted and laughed until we were told to move. So we all went in different directions. I happened to sleep in a chair in the restaurant and was kicked out at 5am. So I found the others who were in the reception area sleeping in the chairs or on the ground. I joined them and tried to get some more zzzz’s.
Last night was quite the late night and we had very little sleep which made check out the next morning by 9 am quite interesting as well. We had to just shove our things into our packs and organize it better later. So many bags and Heather was still wearing her toga ! We had a pretty quiet day, just chilled in the reception area with some people and had some quiet time at the beach too. It seemed to be a recovery day for everyone at the resort...a lot of hung over people. It was kind of a long day, we had to wait for our bus which didn’t leave until 930pm and we had the whole day to kill without having a place of our own. We made the best of it I guess! We snuck into dinner too, we weren’t supposed to get supper tonight but we just walked down and if you pretend like you belong than they don’t question it. Heather was carrying down some cushions for one of the guys who worked there and the security dude was mad and wouldn’t let her take them in, but it was a distraction at least to get us in. Hehe! So we ate really quickly and had to make our way back up the long staircase to catch our shuttle. This Argentinean guy we had met on our first day was also taking the night ferry to Bari so we hung out with him at the port. We also ran into a few guys who we had briefly met after the booze cruise just in passing Adam and Simon. They were taking the same ferry too so we all hung out together. What a blast they were! They were two Aussies who were travelling together and had just recently got off of this bus they were taking with their friends. It is a converted school bus that they bought for like 4000 quid and put another 7000 quid into renovating it and it sounded amazing. So they were now travelling via normal transportation means. So we boarded the wrong ferry, heading to Brindisi, and were told to get off. The boat we were looking for arrived not long after and we were off. Since we had all booked deck tickets and didn’t have a seat on the boat we decided to go check out the outside deck. It was a really hot night and some fresh air was really nice. We were told very different things. The crew were not being very kind to us. They first told us we weren’t allowed into the lounge because we had bags but there were people just let in ahead of us with bigger bags and we only had our day packs with us. Then we asked where the bar was thinking fine if we can’t sit in the lounge we’ll go to the bar. It was in the lounge! So reluctantly he let us in. We grabbed a few brews and went up to the deck. We were told to go all the way up the stairs and out. When we reached the top of the stairs, we were told that we weren’t allowed up there and had to go down to get outside. Then when we went outside, Simon asked for better directions and we were sent back upstairs! So, we just went up and out as quickly as possible so we didn’t have any more confusing directing. When we got outside, we realized we were on a helipad! Haha so we had some beers and chatted on the helipad! The boys were so funny and made us laugh the entire time. After a few beers and at about 330am, we decided it was cold and we were tired so we went to find somewhere to lie down. On our way we also grabbed another beer! We slept in the hallway for a little while and by sleeping I mean, sat and chatted and laughed until we were told to move. So we all went in different directions. I happened to sleep in a chair in the restaurant and was kicked out at 5am. So I found the others who were in the reception area sleeping in the chairs or on the ground. I joined them and tried to get some more zzzz’s.
Boozin' and a Cruisin'!
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Today we found out that the booze cruise was running so we got signed up! We had heard some mixed reviews about this booze cruise and that it does get pretty wild but we went with the power in numbers theory. Heather, Lindsay and I went on it and Virginia had gone to Corfu town to meet some Italian friends of hers. So we had to swim out to this pink boat where we drank, danced, met some cool people. There was naked cliff jumping (for free drinks), a bat cave, clothed cliff jumping, a private beach and some good times on the water. It was really cool and we were definitely boozed by the end. We then had to prepare for the toga party since it was Saturday night at the Pink Palace. We walked back up to the reception bar for happy hour and had a few drinks before we grabbed our togas and got ready! We had some sweet looks going on with the togas! Heather’s was tied via a youtube video and I used my hairband as a belt. We looked wicked! When we headed to dinner, everyone had their Pink toga on and everyone’s was tied differently. The party didn’t get really started until late but we had a good time anyhow. The Palladium was quite busy come 12 or 1 and that was when the traditional Greek dance began and followed with plate smashing over our heads. It was quite good! Christo, who was our quad safari guide was one of the dancers and was smashing the plates over our heads. So good!
Today we found out that the booze cruise was running so we got signed up! We had heard some mixed reviews about this booze cruise and that it does get pretty wild but we went with the power in numbers theory. Heather, Lindsay and I went on it and Virginia had gone to Corfu town to meet some Italian friends of hers. So we had to swim out to this pink boat where we drank, danced, met some cool people. There was naked cliff jumping (for free drinks), a bat cave, clothed cliff jumping, a private beach and some good times on the water. It was really cool and we were definitely boozed by the end. We then had to prepare for the toga party since it was Saturday night at the Pink Palace. We walked back up to the reception bar for happy hour and had a few drinks before we grabbed our togas and got ready! We had some sweet looks going on with the togas! Heather’s was tied via a youtube video and I used my hairband as a belt. We looked wicked! When we headed to dinner, everyone had their Pink toga on and everyone’s was tied differently. The party didn’t get really started until late but we had a good time anyhow. The Palladium was quite busy come 12 or 1 and that was when the traditional Greek dance began and followed with plate smashing over our heads. It was quite good! Christo, who was our quad safari guide was one of the dancers and was smashing the plates over our heads. So good!
ATV adventures
Friday, August 20, 2010
We woke up this morning well rested and excited to be in Corfu. We had been told about a “booze cruise” when we arrived and was apparently the best thing to do here, but the water has been quite rough and it didn’t go out again today. So instead we decided to give the quad safari tour a chance. Well don’t we know it, the loud mouthed American is doing it too. Fantastic!! It only took the group about 2 minutes to get to know him as we had and already be annoyed. Looks like a long day ahead! He is just a know it all, in your face type and it gets really annoying...he tries to be the comic too. Anyhow, he is the reason that we met Lindsay from Hawaii and Virginia (Aussie) who are really cool. They are nanny’s in Milan and have been travelling together the past few weeks before they go back to Milan/home. So we hung out with the girls all day and American boy was entertainment for the day. We rode ATV’s around the island stopping at a beach, cafe, and nice view spots, doing some cliff jumping as well as some off roading. It was a good but dirty day. At the end of it, we got free t-shirts and drinks from Christo our Greek guide or god as he would like us to think. Hehe! After the long day on the town, we hit the showers and went to dinner with Lindsay and Virginia. It’s pretty sweet...we get breakfast and dinner included every day here and we don’t normally make it to lunch so it has been really cheap living. Anyhow, after dinner we were at the Palladium (the resort nightclub) and it was really dead and nothing was happening so we ended up in the reception bar with some English boys Virginia knew. Again, really dead and we were tired and not feeling like partying so Heather, Lindsay and I had a sleepover. We had the extra bed, so Lindsay slept there and we had popcorn and a movie. It was pretty cool actually! Good day and a chill night!
We woke up this morning well rested and excited to be in Corfu. We had been told about a “booze cruise” when we arrived and was apparently the best thing to do here, but the water has been quite rough and it didn’t go out again today. So instead we decided to give the quad safari tour a chance. Well don’t we know it, the loud mouthed American is doing it too. Fantastic!! It only took the group about 2 minutes to get to know him as we had and already be annoyed. Looks like a long day ahead! He is just a know it all, in your face type and it gets really annoying...he tries to be the comic too. Anyhow, he is the reason that we met Lindsay from Hawaii and Virginia (Aussie) who are really cool. They are nanny’s in Milan and have been travelling together the past few weeks before they go back to Milan/home. So we hung out with the girls all day and American boy was entertainment for the day. We rode ATV’s around the island stopping at a beach, cafe, and nice view spots, doing some cliff jumping as well as some off roading. It was a good but dirty day. At the end of it, we got free t-shirts and drinks from Christo our Greek guide or god as he would like us to think. Hehe! After the long day on the town, we hit the showers and went to dinner with Lindsay and Virginia. It’s pretty sweet...we get breakfast and dinner included every day here and we don’t normally make it to lunch so it has been really cheap living. Anyhow, after dinner we were at the Palladium (the resort nightclub) and it was really dead and nothing was happening so we ended up in the reception bar with some English boys Virginia knew. Again, really dead and we were tired and not feeling like partying so Heather, Lindsay and I had a sleepover. We had the extra bed, so Lindsay slept there and we had popcorn and a movie. It was pretty cool actually! Good day and a chill night!
Recovery day!
Thursday, August 19, 2010
We landed in Corfu at about 830 and at the Pink Palace around 915 and were super pumped to get there and be off of that bus! We came in and had our “orientation” which consisted of a morning Ouzo shot and a description of all of the fun we could expect. During this time, Michelle, an English lady who we think is a teacher had us play an introduction game. So we got to learn more about this guy that annoyed us all night! We had to fill out a paper and they got mixed around and we had to find out who was who and introduce them to the group. It was during this, and breakfast, that we bonded with 3 Austrian girls who were just as annoyed at this American. Anyhow, after breakfast we broke free from the group and checked in to our room. We had a private room with our own bathroom and 3 beds...an extra for luck!?!?! So we had both fallen a bit ill from the ferry, no sleep, bus extravaganza so we slept the day away. It was pretty sad and a little disappointing but it was definitely necessary for our wellbeing. We woke up, showered, went to dinner and came back to the room for bed.
We landed in Corfu at about 830 and at the Pink Palace around 915 and were super pumped to get there and be off of that bus! We came in and had our “orientation” which consisted of a morning Ouzo shot and a description of all of the fun we could expect. During this time, Michelle, an English lady who we think is a teacher had us play an introduction game. So we got to learn more about this guy that annoyed us all night! We had to fill out a paper and they got mixed around and we had to find out who was who and introduce them to the group. It was during this, and breakfast, that we bonded with 3 Austrian girls who were just as annoyed at this American. Anyhow, after breakfast we broke free from the group and checked in to our room. We had a private room with our own bathroom and 3 beds...an extra for luck!?!?! So we had both fallen a bit ill from the ferry, no sleep, bus extravaganza so we slept the day away. It was pretty sad and a little disappointing but it was definitely necessary for our wellbeing. We woke up, showered, went to dinner and came back to the room for bed.
Melting in Athens...off to Corfu!!
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
We arrived in Athens at 5am, bright and early to start our day!!! We had made plans to meet up with my Aunt Dona who is a flight attendant at her hotel as she was in Athens for the morning and we could meet up. So we found a taxi to take us, which again farce, and we had to share it with this Greek girl who was in a moped accident and had a neck collar on. She was limping pretty badly and was quite beat up...I guess I have nothing to complain about! We headed to the Hilton downtown Athens which was quite nice and rung up my Aunt to let her know we were there. So she met us in the lobby and we took our bags up to her room, which was amazing! We were so jealous, especially after sleeping on a ferry all night. Anyhow, we went out for breakfast together and caught up. It was nice to have a little taste of home and cool that we were able to meet up in a different part of the world. After breakfast, we headed back to her room, where she had scored some extra towels so we could use the amazing shower in her room. She also had room in her luggage to take some of our excess home...Auntie’s are the best!!! She had a midday flight though so we only had a short visit together but made plans to meet up in Venice in a weeks’ time. So we had a full day in Athens before we got the pink bus to the Pink Palace so we ventured into the city. Heather and I had planned to see the Parthenon and do the touristy things today but because of my mobility, there was no way or not worth the risk of going up the Acropolis. So, Heather went in the scorching heat up the top while I wandered the streets looking for a new watch (because I drowned mine while doing hand laundry in Santorini) and whatever else I could bargain for. After a few hours in the 40 degree heat, we met back up and went to have some much needed fluids and lunch. We then went back to the markets for some more shopping...there really wasn’t much else to do since it was so hot. The shops are at least shaded and have air conditioning. After a long and tiring day we went to the hostel that was the meeting spot for the pink bus, had some dinner and waited till 10pm. So we wait around for what feels like forever and then all of a sudden someone comes outside and is like “ok, lets go”! He then proceeds to “sprint” down the street and we were so taken aback that we have our bags flying and grabbing stuff and trying to walk as quickly as we can to follow everyone. The picture of us would have been hilarious...Heather loaded down with both our packs and me with all the miscellaneous things hobbling behind. It was crazy! We almost lost them a few times as they weaved through the streets...luckily Heather stayed close behind to see where they went and yelled the directions back to me. Pretty hilarious! Anyhow, we get to the bus, hop on and are so tired at this point that we are ready to crash. We had lots of space and the bus was dark but we had this one know it all on the bus who liked to hear himself talk...the entire time!!! He was this American who told everyone that he is 30, lives with his mom, no job, lives off of his mom and is therefore broke. We were just like...you are so annoying. Then there was his Canadian hype man. Oy vei! This Alberta dude was hanging on to every single word out of this guys mouth and it was all nonsense. He didn’t know what he was talking about...well neither of them did and it was just embarrassing. The Canadian was telling him that Ottawa is a province when Heather chimes in with “no actually, Ottawa is in Ontario”. It was gold!!! He did eventually stop talking and slept for awhile...but not nearly soon or long enough for our liking! He should have been sleeping earlier since he was on a ferry the night before and didn’t sleep and now on a bus so he deserved the back bench on the bus...we just shook our heads because we were in the same situation only he had a 4 hour nap that afternoon and we didn’t. It wasn’t worth our breath though. Anyhow, the bus stopped a bunch of times and eventually we had to get off so we could take the ferry.
We arrived in Athens at 5am, bright and early to start our day!!! We had made plans to meet up with my Aunt Dona who is a flight attendant at her hotel as she was in Athens for the morning and we could meet up. So we found a taxi to take us, which again farce, and we had to share it with this Greek girl who was in a moped accident and had a neck collar on. She was limping pretty badly and was quite beat up...I guess I have nothing to complain about! We headed to the Hilton downtown Athens which was quite nice and rung up my Aunt to let her know we were there. So she met us in the lobby and we took our bags up to her room, which was amazing! We were so jealous, especially after sleeping on a ferry all night. Anyhow, we went out for breakfast together and caught up. It was nice to have a little taste of home and cool that we were able to meet up in a different part of the world. After breakfast, we headed back to her room, where she had scored some extra towels so we could use the amazing shower in her room. She also had room in her luggage to take some of our excess home...Auntie’s are the best!!! She had a midday flight though so we only had a short visit together but made plans to meet up in Venice in a weeks’ time. So we had a full day in Athens before we got the pink bus to the Pink Palace so we ventured into the city. Heather and I had planned to see the Parthenon and do the touristy things today but because of my mobility, there was no way or not worth the risk of going up the Acropolis. So, Heather went in the scorching heat up the top while I wandered the streets looking for a new watch (because I drowned mine while doing hand laundry in Santorini) and whatever else I could bargain for. After a few hours in the 40 degree heat, we met back up and went to have some much needed fluids and lunch. We then went back to the markets for some more shopping...there really wasn’t much else to do since it was so hot. The shops are at least shaded and have air conditioning. After a long and tiring day we went to the hostel that was the meeting spot for the pink bus, had some dinner and waited till 10pm. So we wait around for what feels like forever and then all of a sudden someone comes outside and is like “ok, lets go”! He then proceeds to “sprint” down the street and we were so taken aback that we have our bags flying and grabbing stuff and trying to walk as quickly as we can to follow everyone. The picture of us would have been hilarious...Heather loaded down with both our packs and me with all the miscellaneous things hobbling behind. It was crazy! We almost lost them a few times as they weaved through the streets...luckily Heather stayed close behind to see where they went and yelled the directions back to me. Pretty hilarious! Anyhow, we get to the bus, hop on and are so tired at this point that we are ready to crash. We had lots of space and the bus was dark but we had this one know it all on the bus who liked to hear himself talk...the entire time!!! He was this American who told everyone that he is 30, lives with his mom, no job, lives off of his mom and is therefore broke. We were just like...you are so annoying. Then there was his Canadian hype man. Oy vei! This Alberta dude was hanging on to every single word out of this guys mouth and it was all nonsense. He didn’t know what he was talking about...well neither of them did and it was just embarrassing. The Canadian was telling him that Ottawa is a province when Heather chimes in with “no actually, Ottawa is in Ontario”. It was gold!!! He did eventually stop talking and slept for awhile...but not nearly soon or long enough for our liking! He should have been sleeping earlier since he was on a ferry the night before and didn’t sleep and now on a bus so he deserved the back bench on the bus...we just shook our heads because we were in the same situation only he had a 4 hour nap that afternoon and we didn’t. It wasn’t worth our breath though. Anyhow, the bus stopped a bunch of times and eventually we had to get off so we could take the ferry.
Ferry hopping!!
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
We had to check out today and return our ATV ...we have a later ferry back to Athens as well so we pretty well had another day to chill out by the pool. We took our last spin on the ATV shortly after breakfast and we got a tensor bandage for my ankle that is fitted for ankles so that I have a bit more support when I decide to bear weight on it again. We then relaxed by the pool as we waited until our taxi was due to pick us up. It was a bit of a farce this taxi thing. So the whole time we were there we heard about how there aren’t very many taxi’s and it’s quite difficult to get one on the island however, the one that picked us up had a sweet deal going. He already had two girls in the taxi when he picked us up so we all crammed into his little car and he got 20 euro from both us and the other girls. So he made 40 euro for a 10 minute drive and when he dropped us off, there were tons of taxis all lined up waiting for the ferries to arrive. There are definitely taxis in Santorini, you just have to get it at the ferry port if you want one. Anyhow, there was a bit of confusion as to what ferry we were supposed to get on, so here’s Heather hopping over barrier rails to ask the people so we don’t miss the ferry and the ferry isn’t even the company that we bought our tickets from...it was quite strange. Anyhow, we got on the overnight one to Athens which is all we wanted. I did do a bit of walking onto the ferry which was painful but definitely better. Heather scored us some benches too so we could lie down on the ferry once again! YEAH! Although it was a noisy group on the ferry and there wasn’t all that much restful sleep happening. Heather was smart though and downloaded some movies in Santorini so we watched one on the ferry...parts of it anyhow!
We had to check out today and return our ATV ...we have a later ferry back to Athens as well so we pretty well had another day to chill out by the pool. We took our last spin on the ATV shortly after breakfast and we got a tensor bandage for my ankle that is fitted for ankles so that I have a bit more support when I decide to bear weight on it again. We then relaxed by the pool as we waited until our taxi was due to pick us up. It was a bit of a farce this taxi thing. So the whole time we were there we heard about how there aren’t very many taxi’s and it’s quite difficult to get one on the island however, the one that picked us up had a sweet deal going. He already had two girls in the taxi when he picked us up so we all crammed into his little car and he got 20 euro from both us and the other girls. So he made 40 euro for a 10 minute drive and when he dropped us off, there were tons of taxis all lined up waiting for the ferries to arrive. There are definitely taxis in Santorini, you just have to get it at the ferry port if you want one. Anyhow, there was a bit of confusion as to what ferry we were supposed to get on, so here’s Heather hopping over barrier rails to ask the people so we don’t miss the ferry and the ferry isn’t even the company that we bought our tickets from...it was quite strange. Anyhow, we got on the overnight one to Athens which is all we wanted. I did do a bit of walking onto the ferry which was painful but definitely better. Heather scored us some benches too so we could lie down on the ferry once again! YEAH! Although it was a noisy group on the ferry and there wasn’t all that much restful sleep happening. Heather was smart though and downloaded some movies in Santorini so we watched one on the ferry...parts of it anyhow!
ATV's and black sand
Monday, August 16, 2010
Our main goal this morning was to make it to breakfast at the villa. It is included with the cost of the room so why not? Well it was an amazing breakfast...toast, eggs, fruit, juice, cereal, quiche...the works! It was really good! We wanted to inquire about renting an ATV again for the day so we could at least bomb around the island and check it out a little better. We were told that there were two main beaches...the red sand beaches and the black sand beaches. The red sand beaches were much too difficult to access and the terrain was less than ideal however, the black sand beaches we could park right next to the beach. So we grabbed a ride to the rental place and got ourselves and ATV. We started off on our search for the black sand beach called Kamari however, the streets are poorly marked and navigation is more luck than skill. We made it fairly easily though and Heather got us there safe and sound. We parked pretty close to the beach and I was able to hop my way over to the closest lounge chairs. The sand as promised was very hot to walk on. It was a gorgeous little spot though and we spent the majority of the afternoon lounging and soaking up the sun. We then headed back through Fira to our villa to get ready for dinner. We wanted to head out to somewhere Greek for a nice dinner. George at the villa recommended a few places for us to try and we decided on one just up the road. We hopped on the ATV and headed to this place. The food was really, really good. It was definitely traditional Greek food. It was funny though, they had a platter with a sample of all of the appetizers on it and you could see everything...very enticing! We had these amazing stuffed peppers and some escargot as well. Heather chose to have the lamb...(that’s ok, I make lamb ) and I had the moussaka. It was definitely a good last night to our relaxing (forcefully so) stay in Santorini. After dinner we headed back to the villa and headed to bed...we were so exhausted.
Our main goal this morning was to make it to breakfast at the villa. It is included with the cost of the room so why not? Well it was an amazing breakfast...toast, eggs, fruit, juice, cereal, quiche...the works! It was really good! We wanted to inquire about renting an ATV again for the day so we could at least bomb around the island and check it out a little better. We were told that there were two main beaches...the red sand beaches and the black sand beaches. The red sand beaches were much too difficult to access and the terrain was less than ideal however, the black sand beaches we could park right next to the beach. So we grabbed a ride to the rental place and got ourselves and ATV. We started off on our search for the black sand beach called Kamari however, the streets are poorly marked and navigation is more luck than skill. We made it fairly easily though and Heather got us there safe and sound. We parked pretty close to the beach and I was able to hop my way over to the closest lounge chairs. The sand as promised was very hot to walk on. It was a gorgeous little spot though and we spent the majority of the afternoon lounging and soaking up the sun. We then headed back through Fira to our villa to get ready for dinner. We wanted to head out to somewhere Greek for a nice dinner. George at the villa recommended a few places for us to try and we decided on one just up the road. We hopped on the ATV and headed to this place. The food was really, really good. It was definitely traditional Greek food. It was funny though, they had a platter with a sample of all of the appetizers on it and you could see everything...very enticing! We had these amazing stuffed peppers and some escargot as well. Heather chose to have the lamb...(that’s ok, I make lamb ) and I had the moussaka. It was definitely a good last night to our relaxing (forcefully so) stay in Santorini. After dinner we headed back to the villa and headed to bed...we were so exhausted.
Lounging poolside
Sunday, August 15, 2010
We slept in until 11 am this morning and it was very much needed. We decided to move into a closer room to the road and reception as George had offered the night before. Heather went up to reception to sort things out while I began my journey up the mountain. I had forgotten how steep it actually was going down the night before, my ankle did not. I decided that I was going to stay off of it completely so here I am hopping up the hill on one foot. The walkways were pretty narrow but with nothing or very little to hold on to. It was quite the task to get up this hill. I had made it about half way up and was now on the roadside when a little old Greek woman came running towards me, yelling at me in Greek. I wasn’t really sure what to do but she shook a broomstick at me and motioned for me to take it. HAHA! She wanted me to use it like a cane...hilarious!!! I told her it was ok and that I was managing but she insisted. So I gave it the old college try and it was...terrible! She had a good heart though and the best intentions. I had to tell Heather about it when she came by and I got a picture with it...only because I looked like Yukon Cornelius. Anyhow, I finally made it up to the poolside, where our new room was just a flight of stairs away and we hung out by the pool for the entire day. Heather was amazing and went and got some lunch and some dinner with wine later on. She really took amazing care of me!! We both were able to Skype home from the pool as well which had the most beautiful view of Santorini. We couldn’t have asked for anything better. Our families enjoyed the view as well!! We chilled out on the pool deck until after dark and watched the sun set over the volcanic island in front of us. It was absolutely stunning and definitely a surreal moment. After we headed back to our room, which wasn’t quite as difficult as before and were able to Skype with our friend Jer! It was really good to talk to her since we haven’t seen or talked to her since we left. Very cool! We then packed it in for the night!
We slept in until 11 am this morning and it was very much needed. We decided to move into a closer room to the road and reception as George had offered the night before. Heather went up to reception to sort things out while I began my journey up the mountain. I had forgotten how steep it actually was going down the night before, my ankle did not. I decided that I was going to stay off of it completely so here I am hopping up the hill on one foot. The walkways were pretty narrow but with nothing or very little to hold on to. It was quite the task to get up this hill. I had made it about half way up and was now on the roadside when a little old Greek woman came running towards me, yelling at me in Greek. I wasn’t really sure what to do but she shook a broomstick at me and motioned for me to take it. HAHA! She wanted me to use it like a cane...hilarious!!! I told her it was ok and that I was managing but she insisted. So I gave it the old college try and it was...terrible! She had a good heart though and the best intentions. I had to tell Heather about it when she came by and I got a picture with it...only because I looked like Yukon Cornelius. Anyhow, I finally made it up to the poolside, where our new room was just a flight of stairs away and we hung out by the pool for the entire day. Heather was amazing and went and got some lunch and some dinner with wine later on. She really took amazing care of me!! We both were able to Skype home from the pool as well which had the most beautiful view of Santorini. We couldn’t have asked for anything better. Our families enjoyed the view as well!! We chilled out on the pool deck until after dark and watched the sun set over the volcanic island in front of us. It was absolutely stunning and definitely a surreal moment. After we headed back to our room, which wasn’t quite as difficult as before and were able to Skype with our friend Jer! It was really good to talk to her since we haven’t seen or talked to her since we left. Very cool! We then packed it in for the night!
Sunday, August 15, 2010
It's not broken!
Saturday, August 14, 2010
In the morning Heather came down to check on me and we made the executive decision to go get it looked at. I couldn’t walk on it and when I tried I was really light headed and feeling faint. So we grabbed the bus into town, walked a little to the hospital. When we got there, we had to call my insurance company but we couldn’t figure out how to call collect so Heather had to get phone cards from the mini market and then call. The guy was pretty lame on the phone and was snippy with Heather and made me come to the phone...which was down the stairs, outside. Anyhow, we got it all figured out, I had an x-ray, and then saw the doctors. There was one doctor and two newly graduated doctors with one nurse. So the x-ray showed that I didn’t have a break or fracture which is great but I did injure it pretty good. So the nurse tensored it, the doctor wrote a prescription for an anti-inflammatory and a muscle relaxant and they also gave me an injectable dose there. It had to be an intermuscular shot and being as they are a little archaic, I got a shot in the butt. Great!! It was fine actually and the nurse who did it was really good. Heather was on top of things and seeing what they were giving me and giving her approval! So we had to go into town, fill the script as well as do a lot of running around. This was not going to work for me since I could barely walk. So Heather lugged all of our bags to a nearby hotel to store them and then went and rented an ATV for us to use. It was great! She drove us into town, filled my script, and we had our first meal of the day at 4 o’clock. While we were sitting on this little side street in town, up walks the Aussie boys we met in Prague and ran into in Dubrovnik. It was crazy! We couldn’t believe that we actually ran into them again. They were pretty funny and had just gotten into town. They were pretty jealous of our ATV and rightfully so. Hehe! It was quite ironic that we saw them for the second time after meeting them. Good times! So anyhow, we went back down to the ferry dock, where Heather was going to drop me off and then go get our bags when all of a sudden I hear someone yelling my name. I turned around and it was Theresa! The Americans were getting on the same ferry as us and heading to Santorini. Again, funny the way things work. It was great too as Scott was really nice to carry my bag for me. Heather took him on a ride on the ATV of which he slung both of our pack around him and rode on the back. Pretty hilarious! So we took the ferry to Santorini, which was almost an hour late and were off to Santorini. We arrived shortly before 10 and had arranged to be picked up which was really convenient. We said goodbye to the American’s and would probably catch up sometime in Italy. We arrived in Fira which is the capital and were greeted by a Greek couple who own the property. When we booked our Villa, we were upgraded because of room availability so we were quite a ways down from reception. This was really bad for me, the walk was steep and uneven. Heather helped me and I took it really slowly. It was quite painful but I did make it. We were staying in a little white concrete house, typical of Santorini and it was really cool. George (the owner) carried my bag down and offered to move our room in the morning but he didn’t have anything tonight. So we showered and pretty much went to bed. The lack of sleep the past few days has really caught up to us and we were pooped.
In the morning Heather came down to check on me and we made the executive decision to go get it looked at. I couldn’t walk on it and when I tried I was really light headed and feeling faint. So we grabbed the bus into town, walked a little to the hospital. When we got there, we had to call my insurance company but we couldn’t figure out how to call collect so Heather had to get phone cards from the mini market and then call. The guy was pretty lame on the phone and was snippy with Heather and made me come to the phone...which was down the stairs, outside. Anyhow, we got it all figured out, I had an x-ray, and then saw the doctors. There was one doctor and two newly graduated doctors with one nurse. So the x-ray showed that I didn’t have a break or fracture which is great but I did injure it pretty good. So the nurse tensored it, the doctor wrote a prescription for an anti-inflammatory and a muscle relaxant and they also gave me an injectable dose there. It had to be an intermuscular shot and being as they are a little archaic, I got a shot in the butt. Great!! It was fine actually and the nurse who did it was really good. Heather was on top of things and seeing what they were giving me and giving her approval! So we had to go into town, fill the script as well as do a lot of running around. This was not going to work for me since I could barely walk. So Heather lugged all of our bags to a nearby hotel to store them and then went and rented an ATV for us to use. It was great! She drove us into town, filled my script, and we had our first meal of the day at 4 o’clock. While we were sitting on this little side street in town, up walks the Aussie boys we met in Prague and ran into in Dubrovnik. It was crazy! We couldn’t believe that we actually ran into them again. They were pretty funny and had just gotten into town. They were pretty jealous of our ATV and rightfully so. Hehe! It was quite ironic that we saw them for the second time after meeting them. Good times! So anyhow, we went back down to the ferry dock, where Heather was going to drop me off and then go get our bags when all of a sudden I hear someone yelling my name. I turned around and it was Theresa! The Americans were getting on the same ferry as us and heading to Santorini. Again, funny the way things work. It was great too as Scott was really nice to carry my bag for me. Heather took him on a ride on the ATV of which he slung both of our pack around him and rode on the back. Pretty hilarious! So we took the ferry to Santorini, which was almost an hour late and were off to Santorini. We arrived shortly before 10 and had arranged to be picked up which was really convenient. We said goodbye to the American’s and would probably catch up sometime in Italy. We arrived in Fira which is the capital and were greeted by a Greek couple who own the property. When we booked our Villa, we were upgraded because of room availability so we were quite a ways down from reception. This was really bad for me, the walk was steep and uneven. Heather helped me and I took it really slowly. It was quite painful but I did make it. We were staying in a little white concrete house, typical of Santorini and it was really cool. George (the owner) carried my bag down and offered to move our room in the morning but he didn’t have anything tonight. So we showered and pretty much went to bed. The lack of sleep the past few days has really caught up to us and we were pooped.
Chasing ferry's and taxi's
Friday, August 13, 2010
Our original plan was to stay up all night and then catch the metro for our early morning ferry at 5. Well we were exhausted and ended up going to bed at 4. Heather set 11 alarms on her ipod and we slept through all of them. We told Scott to come wake us up, which he tried but wasn’t sure where we were. He came into our room which was apparently left open, and had his Iphone right up to my face but couldn’t tell if it was me and didn’t want to wake up the wrong person. Haha! After we found out that it was me that he was flashing his light at. Anyhow, at 7 our roommate Sofie woke up and was like don’t you guys have to go? YES!! Our ferry was in 25 minutes and on the other side of Athens. We threw our things into a bag and ran down to grab a taxi. We flagged one down and got him to drive really fast. We were yelling at him to drive faster and being really bad backseat drivers but he did well. The cab ride should have taken 20ish minutes and it took only 15 which was great because we only had exactly 15 minutes to get on the ferry. We pulled up as the boat was leaving...we ran on at the last possible second as the back was going up to close. The man asked to see our tickets which of course we didn’t have, but did have a reservation number. He really wasn’t too happy about it but looked up our reservation and let us go. As we walked onto the deck we were talking and laughing and Theresa was like “I hear Americans”! Her and Scott’s faces were priceless. They couldn’t believe that we had made it! They left over an hour before us and got there just in time. They took the metro and had to buy tickets but still. The best part about it was that in Greece we were told that the cab drivers will likely rip you off as a tourist and the crazy cab was only 7 euro. It was fabulous! So we were off to Ios with our buddies and slept most of the way to the island. The ferry was a slow one so it took about 8 hours to get to Ios but we were ok with resting and recovering. When we got to Ios we had to figure out a way to get to our accommodations. The Americans didn’t have any reservations/place to stay so they just tagged along with us to Far Out Camping and hoped that they could stay. They had a shuttle bus to the beach which was amazing!! So we headed to Mylopotas beach to check out our place. We pulled up to this sweet beach and our camping was a resort. It had a pool, restaurant, mini market, bar and a beautiful beach. Heather and I had a bedtent which is a floorboard with walls and a canvas roof with a locking door and of course it was at the very top of a steep hill. So we trekked up to our tent, which was disgustingly hot, and settled in. We put on our bathing suits and headed for the beach. It was absolutely gorgeous there. We lounged on the beach for awhile before grabbing a quick bite to eat and hitting the stage/dancefloor where everyone was partying and dancing. This went on until about 10 when the music stops, everyone gets ready and then takes the bus into town. So we got ready and grabbed the local bus into town. The town was just crawling with tourists and is pretty much run by Australians who come for holidays and don’t leave. So it was a good night. We actually met a guy from Brisbane which was cool because we haven’t met anyone from there yet. It was really cool to chat with him a bit. We danced the night away but when it came time to head home, we had really only one choice. A half an hour walk home! So we followed the way that most people were going and actually ran into some Greek guys and they showed us the way as they were staying at Far Out too. As we were walking I was mindlessly talking to Scott when I walked onto some uneven part of the road fell and twisted my ankle. It was a really severe pain and I actually felt so much pain that I thought that I was going to be sick to my stomach. It started to instantly swell and was really, really painful. So the one Greek guy, hailed a taxi, gave the taxi driver directions and even paid for the taxi. He was so worried about me and it was really, really sweet. I told him not to pay but he insisted and told the taxi driver to go. So, off we went and when we got back to the campground I sat down at the entrance while the guy got me ice, and peroxide and gauze for my scrapes. My right leg was pretty scraped up and it was my left ankle that was injured. So Heather cleaned me up and iced my ankle and Scott offered to let me sleep in his bed which was just at the entrance and he would sleep in mine as I was able to make it up the hill. Very, very nice of everyone to be so helpful! So I iced my foot and fell asleep. I woke up several times in a lot of pain and soaked from the ice. I didn’t much care though because I couldn’t move or go elsewhere even if I wanted to.
Our original plan was to stay up all night and then catch the metro for our early morning ferry at 5. Well we were exhausted and ended up going to bed at 4. Heather set 11 alarms on her ipod and we slept through all of them. We told Scott to come wake us up, which he tried but wasn’t sure where we were. He came into our room which was apparently left open, and had his Iphone right up to my face but couldn’t tell if it was me and didn’t want to wake up the wrong person. Haha! After we found out that it was me that he was flashing his light at. Anyhow, at 7 our roommate Sofie woke up and was like don’t you guys have to go? YES!! Our ferry was in 25 minutes and on the other side of Athens. We threw our things into a bag and ran down to grab a taxi. We flagged one down and got him to drive really fast. We were yelling at him to drive faster and being really bad backseat drivers but he did well. The cab ride should have taken 20ish minutes and it took only 15 which was great because we only had exactly 15 minutes to get on the ferry. We pulled up as the boat was leaving...we ran on at the last possible second as the back was going up to close. The man asked to see our tickets which of course we didn’t have, but did have a reservation number. He really wasn’t too happy about it but looked up our reservation and let us go. As we walked onto the deck we were talking and laughing and Theresa was like “I hear Americans”! Her and Scott’s faces were priceless. They couldn’t believe that we had made it! They left over an hour before us and got there just in time. They took the metro and had to buy tickets but still. The best part about it was that in Greece we were told that the cab drivers will likely rip you off as a tourist and the crazy cab was only 7 euro. It was fabulous! So we were off to Ios with our buddies and slept most of the way to the island. The ferry was a slow one so it took about 8 hours to get to Ios but we were ok with resting and recovering. When we got to Ios we had to figure out a way to get to our accommodations. The Americans didn’t have any reservations/place to stay so they just tagged along with us to Far Out Camping and hoped that they could stay. They had a shuttle bus to the beach which was amazing!! So we headed to Mylopotas beach to check out our place. We pulled up to this sweet beach and our camping was a resort. It had a pool, restaurant, mini market, bar and a beautiful beach. Heather and I had a bedtent which is a floorboard with walls and a canvas roof with a locking door and of course it was at the very top of a steep hill. So we trekked up to our tent, which was disgustingly hot, and settled in. We put on our bathing suits and headed for the beach. It was absolutely gorgeous there. We lounged on the beach for awhile before grabbing a quick bite to eat and hitting the stage/dancefloor where everyone was partying and dancing. This went on until about 10 when the music stops, everyone gets ready and then takes the bus into town. So we got ready and grabbed the local bus into town. The town was just crawling with tourists and is pretty much run by Australians who come for holidays and don’t leave. So it was a good night. We actually met a guy from Brisbane which was cool because we haven’t met anyone from there yet. It was really cool to chat with him a bit. We danced the night away but when it came time to head home, we had really only one choice. A half an hour walk home! So we followed the way that most people were going and actually ran into some Greek guys and they showed us the way as they were staying at Far Out too. As we were walking I was mindlessly talking to Scott when I walked onto some uneven part of the road fell and twisted my ankle. It was a really severe pain and I actually felt so much pain that I thought that I was going to be sick to my stomach. It started to instantly swell and was really, really painful. So the one Greek guy, hailed a taxi, gave the taxi driver directions and even paid for the taxi. He was so worried about me and it was really, really sweet. I told him not to pay but he insisted and told the taxi driver to go. So, off we went and when we got back to the campground I sat down at the entrance while the guy got me ice, and peroxide and gauze for my scrapes. My right leg was pretty scraped up and it was my left ankle that was injured. So Heather cleaned me up and iced my ankle and Scott offered to let me sleep in his bed which was just at the entrance and he would sleep in mine as I was able to make it up the hill. Very, very nice of everyone to be so helpful! So I iced my foot and fell asleep. I woke up several times in a lot of pain and soaked from the ice. I didn’t much care though because I couldn’t move or go elsewhere even if I wanted to.
It's all Greek to us!!!
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Woke up this morning in good time for breakfast, since its free! We went down and had a great little breakfast with eggs, toast, cheese, tomatoes, tea etc. It was great!! We had also previously decided to go on the walking tour offered by the hostel. It was just after breakfast so we headed to that next. We had a nice tour of Athens from our guide, George. We saw the Olympic stadium, the Akropolis, the town/markets, the gardens and he pointed out a lot of other places too. It was really, really hot today and we were definitely feeling the heat. We had a break for water and something quick to eat half way. Along the tour though, we had met 2 girls and 1 guy who were from California and were travelling too. They were really cool so we hung out with them along the walking tour. When we stopped for break though, one of the girls had to leave as the sun really got to her. We couldn’t blame her, the sun was killing us all. So Scott took Theresa back to the hostel and Marilei continued on with us. At the end of the tour the three of us went for lunch in the square. We sat down at this little greek restaurant and the patio was right on the square where there was shopping as it was right next to the market. There are street vendors everywhere and this guy was selling knockoff Raybans. The guy came right up to our table and we were checking them out and the waiter grabbed the glasses right out of Heather’s hand and told the guy to get lost. He kept the sunglasses though so the guy was really angry. He kept coming up to us and telling us that we need to give them back. We told him that we didn’t have them, that the guy did and he was getting really upset. He kept asking different guys for the glasses back but still getting mad at us. We told him that we would try but that’s the risk you take. He obviously knew that they didn’t like them selling at the restaurant and this can’t be the first time that they have gotten angry with them for selling at the restaurant. At the end of the meal, Heather went and asked for the sunglasses back and apologized for the situation. The guy was really nice and said he would give them back he was just trying to teach the guy a lesson and make him remember this. So this is what we told the sunglasses man and he didn’t give us any trouble so we headed on. We went to the market and probably through the day tried on a thousand pairs of leather sandals. It was crazy. We both finally bought shoes along with some other things. We then headed back to the hostel and got showered and ready as we had plans to meet up with Scott, Theresa and Marilei for drinks at happy hour. The hostel that we were staying at had a rooftop terrace and happy hour was from 7-8. We all met up on the roof along with our roommate Sofie and had a few drinks. Sofie is from the Netherlands and eventually left to meet up with her friend who is from Athens. We were all feeling pretty good at this point but thought we should go have some dinner. We walked a few blocks to try and find a restaurant and we decided on the first one that was close to our hostel and looked quite good. On our way to the restaurant, we ran into a guy selling knockoff Ray Bans. So we struck a deal and got 3 pairs for 15 Euro. What a deal...they are pretty good knockoff’s too. We compared them to Scott’s Ray Ban’s that are real and they did a good job. Anyhow, we went to this little Greek place for supper where we had some amazing meals and great wine to wash it down. We also had a little dance with a Greek man and were serenaded by the band. We were even encouraged to yell “opa”. It was fantastic! Afterwards we went back to the hostel for a quick wardrobe change, then hit the town. We convinced Sofie to rejoin the party and this Greek dude who was staying in our room became our guide. We hit up some good clubs and even stole some people from the pub crawl to come with us. A guy from Italy and one from Spain joined us in our mission through Athens. We even tried to find a gay bar in the area but didn’t have much luck. It was a good night anyhow and we weren’t as hard core as we thought and had to go home eventually.
Woke up this morning in good time for breakfast, since its free! We went down and had a great little breakfast with eggs, toast, cheese, tomatoes, tea etc. It was great!! We had also previously decided to go on the walking tour offered by the hostel. It was just after breakfast so we headed to that next. We had a nice tour of Athens from our guide, George. We saw the Olympic stadium, the Akropolis, the town/markets, the gardens and he pointed out a lot of other places too. It was really, really hot today and we were definitely feeling the heat. We had a break for water and something quick to eat half way. Along the tour though, we had met 2 girls and 1 guy who were from California and were travelling too. They were really cool so we hung out with them along the walking tour. When we stopped for break though, one of the girls had to leave as the sun really got to her. We couldn’t blame her, the sun was killing us all. So Scott took Theresa back to the hostel and Marilei continued on with us. At the end of the tour the three of us went for lunch in the square. We sat down at this little greek restaurant and the patio was right on the square where there was shopping as it was right next to the market. There are street vendors everywhere and this guy was selling knockoff Raybans. The guy came right up to our table and we were checking them out and the waiter grabbed the glasses right out of Heather’s hand and told the guy to get lost. He kept the sunglasses though so the guy was really angry. He kept coming up to us and telling us that we need to give them back. We told him that we didn’t have them, that the guy did and he was getting really upset. He kept asking different guys for the glasses back but still getting mad at us. We told him that we would try but that’s the risk you take. He obviously knew that they didn’t like them selling at the restaurant and this can’t be the first time that they have gotten angry with them for selling at the restaurant. At the end of the meal, Heather went and asked for the sunglasses back and apologized for the situation. The guy was really nice and said he would give them back he was just trying to teach the guy a lesson and make him remember this. So this is what we told the sunglasses man and he didn’t give us any trouble so we headed on. We went to the market and probably through the day tried on a thousand pairs of leather sandals. It was crazy. We both finally bought shoes along with some other things. We then headed back to the hostel and got showered and ready as we had plans to meet up with Scott, Theresa and Marilei for drinks at happy hour. The hostel that we were staying at had a rooftop terrace and happy hour was from 7-8. We all met up on the roof along with our roommate Sofie and had a few drinks. Sofie is from the Netherlands and eventually left to meet up with her friend who is from Athens. We were all feeling pretty good at this point but thought we should go have some dinner. We walked a few blocks to try and find a restaurant and we decided on the first one that was close to our hostel and looked quite good. On our way to the restaurant, we ran into a guy selling knockoff Ray Bans. So we struck a deal and got 3 pairs for 15 Euro. What a deal...they are pretty good knockoff’s too. We compared them to Scott’s Ray Ban’s that are real and they did a good job. Anyhow, we went to this little Greek place for supper where we had some amazing meals and great wine to wash it down. We also had a little dance with a Greek man and were serenaded by the band. We were even encouraged to yell “opa”. It was fantastic! Afterwards we went back to the hostel for a quick wardrobe change, then hit the town. We convinced Sofie to rejoin the party and this Greek dude who was staying in our room became our guide. We hit up some good clubs and even stole some people from the pub crawl to come with us. A guy from Italy and one from Spain joined us in our mission through Athens. We even tried to find a gay bar in the area but didn’t have much luck. It was a good night anyhow and we weren’t as hard core as we thought and had to go home eventually.
Leaving on a jet plane
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Woke up this morning and had to get checked out by 11. We decided to take the day to plan the next leg of our trip. Italy!!! So we sat in the hostel reception until late in the afternoon, headed to the train station and booked some more trains before we boarded a bus to take us to the airport. We arrived quite early to the airport so we just sat and booked Italian hostels. At around 5 we went to check in and go through security. So the strange thing about the airport is, you go to the gate and each gate has a security checkpoint. So literally you go through security and on the other side is a small room that you wait to board. It was kind of neat! So we boarded our plane and were off to Athens!!! The flight was small and not very full so we were able to spread out a bit and have 3 seats for the 2 of us. Also to our surprise, they fed you on the flight. We weren’t expecting a meal since we had gotten a really good deal and had already eaten. Oh well, can’t say no to free food. The flight was quite short, only an hour and a half and we were in Greece!!! We were quite excited to say the least but it had been a long tiring day and we were ready to get to our hostel and go out on the town. We took the metro from the airport which is quite a ways out of town, but made it to the hostel with relative ease. It was nearly midnight by the time we checked in and got to our room. So we decided to stay in that night and catch up on some sleep and go out tomorrow night.
Woke up this morning and had to get checked out by 11. We decided to take the day to plan the next leg of our trip. Italy!!! So we sat in the hostel reception until late in the afternoon, headed to the train station and booked some more trains before we boarded a bus to take us to the airport. We arrived quite early to the airport so we just sat and booked Italian hostels. At around 5 we went to check in and go through security. So the strange thing about the airport is, you go to the gate and each gate has a security checkpoint. So literally you go through security and on the other side is a small room that you wait to board. It was kind of neat! So we boarded our plane and were off to Athens!!! The flight was small and not very full so we were able to spread out a bit and have 3 seats for the 2 of us. Also to our surprise, they fed you on the flight. We weren’t expecting a meal since we had gotten a really good deal and had already eaten. Oh well, can’t say no to free food. The flight was quite short, only an hour and a half and we were in Greece!!! We were quite excited to say the least but it had been a long tiring day and we were ready to get to our hostel and go out on the town. We took the metro from the airport which is quite a ways out of town, but made it to the hostel with relative ease. It was nearly midnight by the time we checked in and got to our room. So we decided to stay in that night and catch up on some sleep and go out tomorrow night.
London reunion!
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Got up early and headed for the train. Got good seats and were on our way back to Vienna. We arrived in Vienna at a good time, were able to book our trains for Oktoberfest and were off to find our hostel. When we arrived we found ourselves in an old building that had people living in it below the hostel. A bit strange but fine. So we went to our room which was definitely not big enough for 6 people but we crammed in anyhow. We got organized and headed into the town. We had received an email from Ari telling us about this sushi place that they found when they were in Vienna and it was all you can eat sushi train. AMAZING!! So we had a great dinner there. A lot of selection and the food was quite fresh. We rolled on out of there and back to the hostel...we had already decided that we should go back to the travel shack or at least go party in Vienna. It was a great night out last time and we had the whole next day free anyhow so why not? So we got back to the hostel, changed and joined the group of people having drinks in the common room. They were a bunch of English girls (all travelling separately) and a few boys from Oz, UK, and Ireland. After a few rounds of games, we all decided to head out. The one couple knew where to go so we all followed them. We ended up at some Austrian karaoke bar...it was definitely interesting. We hung out and had a few drinks here with everyone but then decided to go check out the travel shack since we know it’s a good time. While we were on our way, an Austrian woman, Isabella, stopped to give us directions. She was headed in the same direction so we walked with her. She was really nice and it turned out she was with some friends but didn’t like the spot so decided to check out something else. So we decided to join her for a drink at this bluesy bar. After we had a drink and chatted for a bit we headed onward. We walked to the travel shack. When we got there, it wasn’t nearly as busy as it had been last time but it was also mid week and last time was on a weekend. So we grabbed some drinks, were chatting with these people and all of a sudden, Heather yells out “No way, its Ben and Jake”! They were the two boys that we met our first day travelling in London. It was really ironic that we are now half way through our trip and are running into the first people we met while travelling. Small world for sure!!! So we joined their little party and got to catch up. They had been up to a lot of mischief since we’ve seen them, running with the bull, partaking in bull fights, partying it up etc. So heather decided that she wanted to write her name on the wall. So in order to do this, you have to funnel a beer and then get your face painted. So here we were, funnelling beers with a giant spider on my face and a butterfly on Heather’s. It was pretty funny but we got to write our names on the bar wall. Quite exciting!! We had a good night catching up with the boys and meeting some new people that we lost track of time and by the time we realized, it was 430 in the morning. Time to hit the hay! So we made it back to our hostel for a few hours of sleep before check out.
Got up early and headed for the train. Got good seats and were on our way back to Vienna. We arrived in Vienna at a good time, were able to book our trains for Oktoberfest and were off to find our hostel. When we arrived we found ourselves in an old building that had people living in it below the hostel. A bit strange but fine. So we went to our room which was definitely not big enough for 6 people but we crammed in anyhow. We got organized and headed into the town. We had received an email from Ari telling us about this sushi place that they found when they were in Vienna and it was all you can eat sushi train. AMAZING!! So we had a great dinner there. A lot of selection and the food was quite fresh. We rolled on out of there and back to the hostel...we had already decided that we should go back to the travel shack or at least go party in Vienna. It was a great night out last time and we had the whole next day free anyhow so why not? So we got back to the hostel, changed and joined the group of people having drinks in the common room. They were a bunch of English girls (all travelling separately) and a few boys from Oz, UK, and Ireland. After a few rounds of games, we all decided to head out. The one couple knew where to go so we all followed them. We ended up at some Austrian karaoke bar...it was definitely interesting. We hung out and had a few drinks here with everyone but then decided to go check out the travel shack since we know it’s a good time. While we were on our way, an Austrian woman, Isabella, stopped to give us directions. She was headed in the same direction so we walked with her. She was really nice and it turned out she was with some friends but didn’t like the spot so decided to check out something else. So we decided to join her for a drink at this bluesy bar. After we had a drink and chatted for a bit we headed onward. We walked to the travel shack. When we got there, it wasn’t nearly as busy as it had been last time but it was also mid week and last time was on a weekend. So we grabbed some drinks, were chatting with these people and all of a sudden, Heather yells out “No way, its Ben and Jake”! They were the two boys that we met our first day travelling in London. It was really ironic that we are now half way through our trip and are running into the first people we met while travelling. Small world for sure!!! So we joined their little party and got to catch up. They had been up to a lot of mischief since we’ve seen them, running with the bull, partaking in bull fights, partying it up etc. So heather decided that she wanted to write her name on the wall. So in order to do this, you have to funnel a beer and then get your face painted. So here we were, funnelling beers with a giant spider on my face and a butterfly on Heather’s. It was pretty funny but we got to write our names on the bar wall. Quite exciting!! We had a good night catching up with the boys and meeting some new people that we lost track of time and by the time we realized, it was 430 in the morning. Time to hit the hay! So we made it back to our hostel for a few hours of sleep before check out.
Travelling through the countryside
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Early morning ferry!! Nickolai came to pick us up (along with Sara and Matt) to take us down to the ferry port. We got all packed up, headed down, checked in, boarded and were sound asleep in no time. We had scored some benches this time and we were excited to be able to sleep better tonight than the last ferry ride. It ended up feeling much longer this time and our sleep wasn’t great but on we go anyhow.
Monday, August 9, 2010
We arrived in Rijeka at 0700 and had to wait until 12 or 1 for the train. We headed to the train station to drop our bags and see if we could reserve the 12 o’clock train so we get into Zagreb at a decent time. So, we did and tried to reserve some night trains from Portugal to Munich so that they don’t book up and we are able to get to Munich for Oktoberfest. For some reason they weren’t able to so we will try in Austria when we get there tomorrow. We booked the noon train and had some time to kill. We first went to the bathroom to change and brush our teeth and on my, worst bathrooms yet. They were holes in the ground with a drain...it smelt terrible and was infested with bugs. So we grabbed a drink at a little cafe and used their facilities. We then went on a mission for a new book and a hat for Heather. We found a book store and got some new reads...although their selection was limited we were able to find something to entertain us for the next little while. We also found a butcher to get some cold cuts and cheese for lunch and Heather a hat. We almost missed our train though because we weren’t paying attention to time. Luckily we made it though! We were on our way to Zagreb again! We got into Zagreb at a decent time, 4ish and we now knew where we were going and how to get around so we showered and did some more booking. We both booked our flights home!!! So I am coming home September 28th and Heather is flying home with her friend Stef on the 6th of October. It seems so soon but we really have a lot of ground to cover in the meantime. So we grabbed a bite to eat and headed to bed. It was going to be another early morning train at 730 and probably a long day.
Early morning ferry!! Nickolai came to pick us up (along with Sara and Matt) to take us down to the ferry port. We got all packed up, headed down, checked in, boarded and were sound asleep in no time. We had scored some benches this time and we were excited to be able to sleep better tonight than the last ferry ride. It ended up feeling much longer this time and our sleep wasn’t great but on we go anyhow.
Monday, August 9, 2010
We arrived in Rijeka at 0700 and had to wait until 12 or 1 for the train. We headed to the train station to drop our bags and see if we could reserve the 12 o’clock train so we get into Zagreb at a decent time. So, we did and tried to reserve some night trains from Portugal to Munich so that they don’t book up and we are able to get to Munich for Oktoberfest. For some reason they weren’t able to so we will try in Austria when we get there tomorrow. We booked the noon train and had some time to kill. We first went to the bathroom to change and brush our teeth and on my, worst bathrooms yet. They were holes in the ground with a drain...it smelt terrible and was infested with bugs. So we grabbed a drink at a little cafe and used their facilities. We then went on a mission for a new book and a hat for Heather. We found a book store and got some new reads...although their selection was limited we were able to find something to entertain us for the next little while. We also found a butcher to get some cold cuts and cheese for lunch and Heather a hat. We almost missed our train though because we weren’t paying attention to time. Luckily we made it though! We were on our way to Zagreb again! We got into Zagreb at a decent time, 4ish and we now knew where we were going and how to get around so we showered and did some more booking. We both booked our flights home!!! So I am coming home September 28th and Heather is flying home with her friend Stef on the 6th of October. It seems so soon but we really have a lot of ground to cover in the meantime. So we grabbed a bite to eat and headed to bed. It was going to be another early morning train at 730 and probably a long day.
Aussies and bad girls!
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Today is our last day in Dubrovnik and again, didn’t do a whole lot. We took our time getting up and out in the morning. We made omelettes for the second time in Dubrovnik...such a treat! Then we sat out front (for wifi) and finally booked our accommodation for Oktoberfest. We actually booked the hotel that Heather originally liked because it is in safari decor that had been previously all booked. Someone must have cancelled, thankfully!! So as we are sitting just outside the front door and up walks an Aussie mate we met in Prague. The one’s we cabbed home with from the pub crawl! Small world! They had just done an 8 day sail down the coast of Croatia and had just arrived in Dubrovnik. It was cool to catch up and say hey! We were planning to go out tonight so we told them to join us if they wanted to. They did keep Brigita waiting while we chatted though and she was none too pleased. She told them that we were bad news and basically not to associated with us. HAHA! We have been labelled as the “bad girls”! Pretty hilarious! The guys were getting yelled at and they had just arrived. It should make for an interesting few days for them. We were leaving, luckily. We did however, apologize to her when she passed by us after. She forgave us but was still not as chatty and pleasant as before. If our worst crime is being a little too loud with some Aussie boys and actually breaking the party up and listening to her request well then...I don’t think we’re doing too badly. We thought we would get out to the old town today and walk the walls. Dubrovnik is a walled city and for a fee you can walk along the top of them and get some really amazing views. Of course we went in the middle of the afternoon and were under the beating sun. It was friggin hot! It was well worth the warmth though. We had hoped to grab some seafood at the fish market and make our own dinner tonight. We were under the impression that the fish market was in the old harbour (as the book told us) and we were sadly mistaken. We searched for it for awhile before admitting defeat. It wasn’t until later when we got back home that Sarah told us that it was actually in the new harbour. Darn! So we hit up good ol’ Uncle Ben to make us some rice and sweet and sour chicken. We just make up a stir fry with chicken and veggies. It was really good but definitely not the seafood extravaganza we had hoped. We got showered and dolled up for a big night out. We wanted to go to the beach party, a secret little spot on the cliffs and then to the all night club. We chilled outside drinking when two Canadian boys (Calgary) peaked their head in to see what we were planning for the night. So we told them and invited them to come chill with us and hit the town. So we hung out on our balcony for awhile, ensuring to be quiet after 11 so Brigita wouldn’t come yell at us again. We had heard about a beach party through the grapevine and thought we should check it out, especially since it was only a few minutes away. When we arrived, there was some Croatian pop star singing on stage and it was a huge event. It wasn’t great music and we didn’t know what she was saying anyhow, so we just had a quick drink before heading on. So we walked to the bus stop and took it into the old town and tried to look for this bar that was apparently amazing!! No luck, we looked for quite awhile and found nothing. So, we headed to Fuego, latino club and spent the rest of the night dancing away. The ferry ride will be an interesting one tomorrow. Great time in Dubrovnik!
Today is our last day in Dubrovnik and again, didn’t do a whole lot. We took our time getting up and out in the morning. We made omelettes for the second time in Dubrovnik...such a treat! Then we sat out front (for wifi) and finally booked our accommodation for Oktoberfest. We actually booked the hotel that Heather originally liked because it is in safari decor that had been previously all booked. Someone must have cancelled, thankfully!! So as we are sitting just outside the front door and up walks an Aussie mate we met in Prague. The one’s we cabbed home with from the pub crawl! Small world! They had just done an 8 day sail down the coast of Croatia and had just arrived in Dubrovnik. It was cool to catch up and say hey! We were planning to go out tonight so we told them to join us if they wanted to. They did keep Brigita waiting while we chatted though and she was none too pleased. She told them that we were bad news and basically not to associated with us. HAHA! We have been labelled as the “bad girls”! Pretty hilarious! The guys were getting yelled at and they had just arrived. It should make for an interesting few days for them. We were leaving, luckily. We did however, apologize to her when she passed by us after. She forgave us but was still not as chatty and pleasant as before. If our worst crime is being a little too loud with some Aussie boys and actually breaking the party up and listening to her request well then...I don’t think we’re doing too badly. We thought we would get out to the old town today and walk the walls. Dubrovnik is a walled city and for a fee you can walk along the top of them and get some really amazing views. Of course we went in the middle of the afternoon and were under the beating sun. It was friggin hot! It was well worth the warmth though. We had hoped to grab some seafood at the fish market and make our own dinner tonight. We were under the impression that the fish market was in the old harbour (as the book told us) and we were sadly mistaken. We searched for it for awhile before admitting defeat. It wasn’t until later when we got back home that Sarah told us that it was actually in the new harbour. Darn! So we hit up good ol’ Uncle Ben to make us some rice and sweet and sour chicken. We just make up a stir fry with chicken and veggies. It was really good but definitely not the seafood extravaganza we had hoped. We got showered and dolled up for a big night out. We wanted to go to the beach party, a secret little spot on the cliffs and then to the all night club. We chilled outside drinking when two Canadian boys (Calgary) peaked their head in to see what we were planning for the night. So we told them and invited them to come chill with us and hit the town. So we hung out on our balcony for awhile, ensuring to be quiet after 11 so Brigita wouldn’t come yell at us again. We had heard about a beach party through the grapevine and thought we should check it out, especially since it was only a few minutes away. When we arrived, there was some Croatian pop star singing on stage and it was a huge event. It wasn’t great music and we didn’t know what she was saying anyhow, so we just had a quick drink before heading on. So we walked to the bus stop and took it into the old town and tried to look for this bar that was apparently amazing!! No luck, we looked for quite awhile and found nothing. So, we headed to Fuego, latino club and spent the rest of the night dancing away. The ferry ride will be an interesting one tomorrow. Great time in Dubrovnik!
Island hopping
Friday, August 6, 2010
We decided that today we were going to go to Lochrum island which is just off the coast of Dubrovnik. It was a quick little ferry ride to the island (15 minutes) and we were there. It is a green island so it’s pretty much just all beaches and there is a salt water lake in the middle of it. The ocean was quite rough at parts and a little risky to swim at so it was nice to have both. On the ferry ride there, we saw our roommates who obviously had the same idea. We ended up losing each other once we got there but Heather and I laid out on the “beach” (huge rocks) and soaked up the sun. There were people cliff jumping into the water, swimming and Lochrum is actually a nude beach but only a few girls actually partook. It was a really nice day on the island. We had packed our lunch and just relaxed in the sun. After awhile we went to go sit in the shade and eventually to the lake. The island was overpopulated with peacocks and they were gorgeous to see. They were being terrorized by all kinds of kids and people wanting them to spread their feathers. Oh well!! We stayed till nearly 630 when the ferry took us back to the old town. We wanted some more seafood so we went to a restaurant recommended by the guidebook for having really good dishes. We got there just in time!! The small patio in the middle of the square had a really long line just shortly after we were seated. We ordered a bottle of wine, some oysters and the mussels each. It was really good! The seafood was fresh and prepared well. Needless to say, we gobbled it up pretty quickly. Heather tried oysters for the first time and wasn’t thrilled (too salty) but was willing to try again (the lemon squeeze helped). After supper, we wandered around the town for awhile, looking in shops and just hanging out. We eventually headed back home and...you guessed it, had some wine on the balcony! Another fabulous day in Dubrovnik! We did however, decide to make friendly with our neighbours above us. A group of Aussie boys!! Our favourite! We sat up on their balcony chatting until late and apparently we were quite noisey because Brigita came and broke up the party. She was not too pleased and had a previous run in with the boys. I guess they came home early (7am) the morning before and were loud and had a complaint. So this was the second time they were getting a noise complaint. We were now associated! If you met Brigita you could imagine that she has a mean streak, for sure!
We decided that today we were going to go to Lochrum island which is just off the coast of Dubrovnik. It was a quick little ferry ride to the island (15 minutes) and we were there. It is a green island so it’s pretty much just all beaches and there is a salt water lake in the middle of it. The ocean was quite rough at parts and a little risky to swim at so it was nice to have both. On the ferry ride there, we saw our roommates who obviously had the same idea. We ended up losing each other once we got there but Heather and I laid out on the “beach” (huge rocks) and soaked up the sun. There were people cliff jumping into the water, swimming and Lochrum is actually a nude beach but only a few girls actually partook. It was a really nice day on the island. We had packed our lunch and just relaxed in the sun. After awhile we went to go sit in the shade and eventually to the lake. The island was overpopulated with peacocks and they were gorgeous to see. They were being terrorized by all kinds of kids and people wanting them to spread their feathers. Oh well!! We stayed till nearly 630 when the ferry took us back to the old town. We wanted some more seafood so we went to a restaurant recommended by the guidebook for having really good dishes. We got there just in time!! The small patio in the middle of the square had a really long line just shortly after we were seated. We ordered a bottle of wine, some oysters and the mussels each. It was really good! The seafood was fresh and prepared well. Needless to say, we gobbled it up pretty quickly. Heather tried oysters for the first time and wasn’t thrilled (too salty) but was willing to try again (the lemon squeeze helped). After supper, we wandered around the town for awhile, looking in shops and just hanging out. We eventually headed back home and...you guessed it, had some wine on the balcony! Another fabulous day in Dubrovnik! We did however, decide to make friendly with our neighbours above us. A group of Aussie boys!! Our favourite! We sat up on their balcony chatting until late and apparently we were quite noisey because Brigita came and broke up the party. She was not too pleased and had a previous run in with the boys. I guess they came home early (7am) the morning before and were loud and had a complaint. So this was the second time they were getting a noise complaint. We were now associated! If you met Brigita you could imagine that she has a mean streak, for sure!
Croatia has some of the most beautiful beaches!!!!
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Today is beach day #1. There are quite a few beaches to choose from so we started close. Lapad beach was only a 5 minute walk from our place and there were vendors and shops on the way. We had to get beach gear (towel, mat , hat and sunglasses) and then we were off. The view from the beach was again, beautiful! However, the beach was not what I had expected...it was really rocky and there wasn’t any sand for you to lay out on...it was gravel. We were glad that we bought the bamboo mats to lie on. The water was really nice though and since it was quite a hot day, it was good to have a cold dip in the ocean. The sun really took a toll on us and again we had a pretty quiet night. We had leftovers from the night before as our mussel pasta turned out to be a lot of food. We met our new roommates too and shared a few drinks with them. Matt and Sarah, a couple from Bristol and very cool people! Heather skyped with her family for a while and ran into Brigita who had only half of the laundry to return that night. We thought, yup, that’s fine...well guess who’s half was done? Heather got all of her clothes back, washed, dried and folded while she still had over a week’s worth of underwear left. Good thing tomorrow is a beach day...I may still have to sink wash a pair for the rest of tomorrow.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Beach day #2! We decided to head to the north shore today and go to the Copacabana beach. It is quite the hotspot for locals and tourists alike. It was really, really rocky here and the ocean floor didn’t clear to sand at all. It was much nicer to lay on the “beach” here though. It was like a concrete flat beach instead of loose gravel. It was quite hot at the beach and we were worried about burning so we took shade in the afternoon. We had a light lunch on the beach before heading back to the apartment. We are definitely getting our exercise while in Dubrovnik. The apartment is on top of a hill and the only way to get up is to text Nickolai (we are mobile-less), to take the bus (kind of a waste if we aren’t coming in from old town), or walk which has you in a sweat by the time you reach the top. We chose the latter most days and even when we have taken the bus back, we stop at the supermarket at the bottom of the hill for something or other. We got back to the apartment, had a drink or two with our roommates, showered and went into the old town. It was our first time going to the old town and wanted to check out a spot Brigita recommended to eat at. On the water and reasonably priced! We had seafood risotto and seafood pizza that we shared between the two of us and it was great! We were definitely not disappointed. By the time dinner was over, it was quite dark so we decided to save our adventuring in the old town for another day. We headed back, again sat on the balcony for a few drinks (or bottles) and retired to bed. This is definitely a change in pace from our on the go party lifestyle but we are really appreciating the break.
Today is beach day #1. There are quite a few beaches to choose from so we started close. Lapad beach was only a 5 minute walk from our place and there were vendors and shops on the way. We had to get beach gear (towel, mat , hat and sunglasses) and then we were off. The view from the beach was again, beautiful! However, the beach was not what I had expected...it was really rocky and there wasn’t any sand for you to lay out on...it was gravel. We were glad that we bought the bamboo mats to lie on. The water was really nice though and since it was quite a hot day, it was good to have a cold dip in the ocean. The sun really took a toll on us and again we had a pretty quiet night. We had leftovers from the night before as our mussel pasta turned out to be a lot of food. We met our new roommates too and shared a few drinks with them. Matt and Sarah, a couple from Bristol and very cool people! Heather skyped with her family for a while and ran into Brigita who had only half of the laundry to return that night. We thought, yup, that’s fine...well guess who’s half was done? Heather got all of her clothes back, washed, dried and folded while she still had over a week’s worth of underwear left. Good thing tomorrow is a beach day...I may still have to sink wash a pair for the rest of tomorrow.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Beach day #2! We decided to head to the north shore today and go to the Copacabana beach. It is quite the hotspot for locals and tourists alike. It was really, really rocky here and the ocean floor didn’t clear to sand at all. It was much nicer to lay on the “beach” here though. It was like a concrete flat beach instead of loose gravel. It was quite hot at the beach and we were worried about burning so we took shade in the afternoon. We had a light lunch on the beach before heading back to the apartment. We are definitely getting our exercise while in Dubrovnik. The apartment is on top of a hill and the only way to get up is to text Nickolai (we are mobile-less), to take the bus (kind of a waste if we aren’t coming in from old town), or walk which has you in a sweat by the time you reach the top. We chose the latter most days and even when we have taken the bus back, we stop at the supermarket at the bottom of the hill for something or other. We got back to the apartment, had a drink or two with our roommates, showered and went into the old town. It was our first time going to the old town and wanted to check out a spot Brigita recommended to eat at. On the water and reasonably priced! We had seafood risotto and seafood pizza that we shared between the two of us and it was great! We were definitely not disappointed. By the time dinner was over, it was quite dark so we decided to save our adventuring in the old town for another day. We headed back, again sat on the balcony for a few drinks (or bottles) and retired to bed. This is definitely a change in pace from our on the go party lifestyle but we are really appreciating the break.
Welcome to Dubrovnik
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Woke up with a start at 630 as we had arrived in Split and it was announced so those travellers departing knew we had arrived. So we were all awake at 630, not well rested but feeling fine for the time being. We had a little warm cup of cappuccino/hot chocolate and were feeling warmer and more alive. We had some breakfast (from our adventure to the supermarket) and hung out for a few hours. The restaurant had cleared out after a few stops so we decided it was our opportunity to move to an outside table with a booth so we could lay down and have a proper rest. I was sleeping on the floor at this point so Heather scoped out a good spot and we moved our things. We felt much, much better after having a little rest and some lunch and being closer to getting there. The coast is beautiful and we got to see a lot of the stops. Apparently the most picturesque part of the journey is Split to Dubrovnik which is perfect because it’s during daylight hours. So, we got to see a lot of the ports and they all look wonderful, we could not even imagine what Dubrovnik would be like but hopefully just as amazing. The water here is like no other colour of water I have seen. It is a true blue colour and clear as can be. Even yesterday in the harbour in Rijeka, we could see right through the water to the bottom and there were mussels on the posts and fish swimming. A bit different from any other harbour I have seen. Not quite as clean and clear water as this. Again, making us quite excited to arrive in Dubrovnik! We were due to arrive in Dubrovnik at half 4 and we had previously arranged for the brother of the owner of the apartments we rented to pick us up at the ferry port. It was really kind of them to offer this service for free! So Nickolai had a little sign with our names on it and was waiting right at the dock for us. He gave us a little guided tour as he drove us from the old town to Lapad (just outside of the old town). We arrived to modern apartments and Brigita was there to check us in and show us our room. She had overbooked so she ran out of double apartments so we shared a common area with one other room. There just so happened to be two good looking Greek boys in the room next to ours. Bonus!! They were actually quite nice and we chatted with them a little. They were heading home the next day but gave us some pointers on Dubrovnik. Our first mission of the night was to find laundry facilities. We had stretched our clothes for awhile now and I was in my emergency underwear. LAST PAIR! So Brigita said her neighbour would do it if we paid her and would get it back, same time tomorrow. Perfect! So we gathered it up and dropped it off. We then trekked down the hill to the little promenade with restaurants, shops and the supermarket. We grabbed some groceries to make a little dinner before we turned in at a good hour. Our balcony faces the new harbour and since we are on the top of a hill, the view is spectacular. Just amazing!! So we watched the cruise ships go in and out of the harbour while drinking some wine on our balcony. Life is good!!!
Woke up with a start at 630 as we had arrived in Split and it was announced so those travellers departing knew we had arrived. So we were all awake at 630, not well rested but feeling fine for the time being. We had a little warm cup of cappuccino/hot chocolate and were feeling warmer and more alive. We had some breakfast (from our adventure to the supermarket) and hung out for a few hours. The restaurant had cleared out after a few stops so we decided it was our opportunity to move to an outside table with a booth so we could lay down and have a proper rest. I was sleeping on the floor at this point so Heather scoped out a good spot and we moved our things. We felt much, much better after having a little rest and some lunch and being closer to getting there. The coast is beautiful and we got to see a lot of the stops. Apparently the most picturesque part of the journey is Split to Dubrovnik which is perfect because it’s during daylight hours. So, we got to see a lot of the ports and they all look wonderful, we could not even imagine what Dubrovnik would be like but hopefully just as amazing. The water here is like no other colour of water I have seen. It is a true blue colour and clear as can be. Even yesterday in the harbour in Rijeka, we could see right through the water to the bottom and there were mussels on the posts and fish swimming. A bit different from any other harbour I have seen. Not quite as clean and clear water as this. Again, making us quite excited to arrive in Dubrovnik! We were due to arrive in Dubrovnik at half 4 and we had previously arranged for the brother of the owner of the apartments we rented to pick us up at the ferry port. It was really kind of them to offer this service for free! So Nickolai had a little sign with our names on it and was waiting right at the dock for us. He gave us a little guided tour as he drove us from the old town to Lapad (just outside of the old town). We arrived to modern apartments and Brigita was there to check us in and show us our room. She had overbooked so she ran out of double apartments so we shared a common area with one other room. There just so happened to be two good looking Greek boys in the room next to ours. Bonus!! They were actually quite nice and we chatted with them a little. They were heading home the next day but gave us some pointers on Dubrovnik. Our first mission of the night was to find laundry facilities. We had stretched our clothes for awhile now and I was in my emergency underwear. LAST PAIR! So Brigita said her neighbour would do it if we paid her and would get it back, same time tomorrow. Perfect! So we gathered it up and dropped it off. We then trekked down the hill to the little promenade with restaurants, shops and the supermarket. We grabbed some groceries to make a little dinner before we turned in at a good hour. Our balcony faces the new harbour and since we are on the top of a hill, the view is spectacular. Just amazing!! So we watched the cruise ships go in and out of the harbour while drinking some wine on our balcony. Life is good!!!
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Trains, Planes and BUSES!!!!
Monday, August 2, 2010
Off to Rijeka to catch our ferry today. Hooray!!! We are so pumped that waking up this morning at 6-630 was not a big effort. We were pumped and ready to board our 820 train. We had quite a bit of time to wait but again our train was there and waiting. So we boarded early, secured a car to ourselves (3 seats each) and laid down on the bench and had a wee nappy. Two hours later the conductor had brought a translator to tell us we had to get off of the train and switch to a bus. We weren’t sure what this was all about but everyone was doing it and we were in no place to argue. So off we went, climbing over the tracks (apparently platforms are for the birds in Croatia) and headed towards the coach bus that was happily waiting to take us to...”our next destination”??? Who knows...I do remember saying to Heather “where is the water”? It’s difficult to take a ferry from dry land...oh well here we are going with the flow! Next thing we knew, 20 minutes later, we were being taken off of the bus and told to go back on the train. Ok! New train, here we go! I found the young guy who acted as our “translator” originally and asked him what was going on. He thought that the tracks were being replaced and so we had to go around the part that they were fixing and continue on from there. He also said that he thought that we would have to do it one more time. So back on the train we went, ready to move again though. After about an hour maybe we were again moving to the bus, which this time was packed. The bus was full of people and bags and the man I sat beside was ever so kind to move over and allow me to sit next to him (ya no, I had half of a seat because he had his legs wide and was leaning on the window to sleep), Classy!!! Anyhow, this was the longer, worse bus ride and two people actually vomited from the movement of the bus. We were weaving through the mountains and as you can imagine, the roads were not well maintained. Thank goodness it wasn’t the rude boy beside me, losing his cookies. Anyhow, we were then taken back onto the final train that would take us straight on to Rijeka! Wow, what a view from the train. We drove to the coast on the mountain and then had to circle the town to get down the mountain, all the while facing the water. Gorgeous! We got there later than anticipated but we still had like 6 hours until our ferry was due to leave. We then went to the ferry dock, stored our bags, checked in and went looking for a supermarket. We wandered around, found nothing and we eventually went to the shopping centre which was a 40 minute walk in the scorching heat. We found it and were amazed to find a real grocery store with tons of options. Yeah! We had to get enough food for supper, breakfast and then lunch tomorrow since we weren’t due to dock until after 4. Here we come, 20 hours on a ferry. It’s our preparation for our 20 hour flight to Australia. So we grabbed what we needed/wanted and took the bus back to the city centre to catch our ferry. We had checked in earlier when we arrived which was a really smart move in hindsight because the line was massive when we got back. We decided to cheap out on the ferry after spending the big wad on our Greek villa and just get deck seats and brave the night without a bed. So when we got on board there were people everywhere, setting up sleeping areas and reserving their spots. We got an ok spot where we had a table and then were able to sleep beside/under the table. Good times! Heather was pretty excited to have a “sleepover” with a bunch of strangers...I was open to the idea. We were hoping to meet people with a cabin and invite ourselves in but it didn’t quite work out that way. Instead we slept on the floor under a table in the restaurant. It sounds worse than it was but we were one of many with the same sleeping situation. Our backs were wrecked and we were freezing all night but hey its only one night. There was also a small disturbance just as we were falling asleep. Some man had sat down on a bench beside some European couple and had worked his way closer and closer and was laying down right beside him. The European man said, quite loudly and abruptly, that this was his space and he needed to move over. The man didn’t really move but rearranged himself. About 20 minutes later the man got really upset and hit the guy and got up ready to fight him. Pretty dramatic!! We weren’t so impressed since the guy was already warned to move over and he proceeded to get closer as we were trying to sleep. We think he was trying to push them out of the bench so he could lie down. Pretty brutal but blown way out of proportion! Life on a boat I suppose.
I should mention the new trend that seems to be happening. We have been asked several times now for directions or for help which is quite the change from people asking us if we need help. We must look more experienced and knowledgeable than before. I was approached on the street in Budapest if I knew where the money exchange place was and we had passed it several times so I directed them to the spot. Then on the metro the next day, still in Budapest, we were asked “do you speak English...a little bit?” by someone who clearly did not fluently...of which I replied “a little”! I don’t think he picked up on my sarcasm but he needed directions on how to get to a certain metro stop. Being the amazing metro navigators that we have become, we were able to tell him where and when to change lines and what line he needed to switch to. Then when we were leaving Zagreb, some guy must have seen the Canada flag on my pack (also not North American but he recognized that we must speak English instead of Croatian) and asked us how to get to Vienna. Haha! We were headed nowhere near Vienna but went to the departure board to try and help him out anyhow. Luckily, the train went directly to Vienna and he had about 3 minutes to get to the platform. So off he went, to catch his train. We think it’s pretty amusing that people are asking us for directions when clearly we don’t know where we are half of the time. Good thing they asked us when we had our bearings and were somewhat useful to them.
Off to Rijeka to catch our ferry today. Hooray!!! We are so pumped that waking up this morning at 6-630 was not a big effort. We were pumped and ready to board our 820 train. We had quite a bit of time to wait but again our train was there and waiting. So we boarded early, secured a car to ourselves (3 seats each) and laid down on the bench and had a wee nappy. Two hours later the conductor had brought a translator to tell us we had to get off of the train and switch to a bus. We weren’t sure what this was all about but everyone was doing it and we were in no place to argue. So off we went, climbing over the tracks (apparently platforms are for the birds in Croatia) and headed towards the coach bus that was happily waiting to take us to...”our next destination”??? Who knows...I do remember saying to Heather “where is the water”? It’s difficult to take a ferry from dry land...oh well here we are going with the flow! Next thing we knew, 20 minutes later, we were being taken off of the bus and told to go back on the train. Ok! New train, here we go! I found the young guy who acted as our “translator” originally and asked him what was going on. He thought that the tracks were being replaced and so we had to go around the part that they were fixing and continue on from there. He also said that he thought that we would have to do it one more time. So back on the train we went, ready to move again though. After about an hour maybe we were again moving to the bus, which this time was packed. The bus was full of people and bags and the man I sat beside was ever so kind to move over and allow me to sit next to him (ya no, I had half of a seat because he had his legs wide and was leaning on the window to sleep), Classy!!! Anyhow, this was the longer, worse bus ride and two people actually vomited from the movement of the bus. We were weaving through the mountains and as you can imagine, the roads were not well maintained. Thank goodness it wasn’t the rude boy beside me, losing his cookies. Anyhow, we were then taken back onto the final train that would take us straight on to Rijeka! Wow, what a view from the train. We drove to the coast on the mountain and then had to circle the town to get down the mountain, all the while facing the water. Gorgeous! We got there later than anticipated but we still had like 6 hours until our ferry was due to leave. We then went to the ferry dock, stored our bags, checked in and went looking for a supermarket. We wandered around, found nothing and we eventually went to the shopping centre which was a 40 minute walk in the scorching heat. We found it and were amazed to find a real grocery store with tons of options. Yeah! We had to get enough food for supper, breakfast and then lunch tomorrow since we weren’t due to dock until after 4. Here we come, 20 hours on a ferry. It’s our preparation for our 20 hour flight to Australia. So we grabbed what we needed/wanted and took the bus back to the city centre to catch our ferry. We had checked in earlier when we arrived which was a really smart move in hindsight because the line was massive when we got back. We decided to cheap out on the ferry after spending the big wad on our Greek villa and just get deck seats and brave the night without a bed. So when we got on board there were people everywhere, setting up sleeping areas and reserving their spots. We got an ok spot where we had a table and then were able to sleep beside/under the table. Good times! Heather was pretty excited to have a “sleepover” with a bunch of strangers...I was open to the idea. We were hoping to meet people with a cabin and invite ourselves in but it didn’t quite work out that way. Instead we slept on the floor under a table in the restaurant. It sounds worse than it was but we were one of many with the same sleeping situation. Our backs were wrecked and we were freezing all night but hey its only one night. There was also a small disturbance just as we were falling asleep. Some man had sat down on a bench beside some European couple and had worked his way closer and closer and was laying down right beside him. The European man said, quite loudly and abruptly, that this was his space and he needed to move over. The man didn’t really move but rearranged himself. About 20 minutes later the man got really upset and hit the guy and got up ready to fight him. Pretty dramatic!! We weren’t so impressed since the guy was already warned to move over and he proceeded to get closer as we were trying to sleep. We think he was trying to push them out of the bench so he could lie down. Pretty brutal but blown way out of proportion! Life on a boat I suppose.
I should mention the new trend that seems to be happening. We have been asked several times now for directions or for help which is quite the change from people asking us if we need help. We must look more experienced and knowledgeable than before. I was approached on the street in Budapest if I knew where the money exchange place was and we had passed it several times so I directed them to the spot. Then on the metro the next day, still in Budapest, we were asked “do you speak English...a little bit?” by someone who clearly did not fluently...of which I replied “a little”! I don’t think he picked up on my sarcasm but he needed directions on how to get to a certain metro stop. Being the amazing metro navigators that we have become, we were able to tell him where and when to change lines and what line he needed to switch to. Then when we were leaving Zagreb, some guy must have seen the Canada flag on my pack (also not North American but he recognized that we must speak English instead of Croatian) and asked us how to get to Vienna. Haha! We were headed nowhere near Vienna but went to the departure board to try and help him out anyhow. Luckily, the train went directly to Vienna and he had about 3 minutes to get to the platform. So off he went, to catch his train. We think it’s pretty amusing that people are asking us for directions when clearly we don’t know where we are half of the time. Good thing they asked us when we had our bearings and were somewhat useful to them.
Navagation System Gone Aray!!
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Oh my goodness it’s August!!! We actually cannot believe that we have been on the go for over 6 weeks now. It’s quite unbelievable! Anyhow, we are on the road again getting our train to Croatia this morning. We woke up in good time to get the train station (and blow some Hungarian cash that we had leftover in the supermarket) and make sure we get a magnet for Heather’s collection. So we went to the train station and the train was already there and waiting. So we boarded and were told that Hungarian train reservations are mandatory...apparently not! But the 5 people who did reserve, I think on the whole train all sat in the same cart. So it was us and 3 young German guys were crammed and sweating in one car built for 5. Not so pleasant but they were fun. We had quite the long journey ahead of us and after Heather and I pooled our change together and I went to the food stand (that sells beer) and asked for the cheapest beer and to purchase as much as I could for the money that we had. So we got seven tall cans and off I went back to the train. The five of us all had a tall can together to start off a great train ride. So the three of them, as it turned out, were from Hamburg! We told them that we were there for Hamburg day and impressed them with all of our knowledge of German culture, or what we know of Oktoberfest anyhow. They were on a three week vacation together and we had some good laughs...especially when the train was stopped dead for about 45 minutes to clear customs. Customs you may ask??? Yes, we finally had to actually properly cross a border. So we had our passport stamped by Hungarian border control and Croatian. It was great how quickly they cleared us although the German’s didn’t even need a passport, just an I.D card. We definitely counted our lucky stars though because there were two Oriental girls in the car beside us who got their passports taken for awhile and then we didn’t see them afterwards...not sure of the story there but they disappeared off of the train. On we continued until we finally made it to Zagreb (which is Croatia’s capital apparently). It was nearly 8 by the time we arrived and we had simple instructions to get on tram number 6 and get off at the fifth stop Slavonska. The instructions clearly warned us that there was also a stop on tram 6 in the opposite direction called Slovenska and that was the incorrect stop. However, we weren’t able to clarify this as we were out of juice on the laptop and our ghetto train didn’t have an outlet (or A.C. for that matter). Anyhow, so there was this huge sign in the train station for our Hostel Lika and the directions. So we glance at them and head on to the trams. We get on number six as instructed, count 5 stops and get off. We were then supposed to follow the yellow footprints and that would lead us to the hostel. Well to our surprise there were no footprints. We searched around and found nothing...so we went to the newspaper stand to ask the young girl working there if she knew where the hostel was or the street as we did have the address. She told us that she wasn’t sure but thought it was 1 or 2 stops back on the tram. So we walked back and tried to find the footprints or even a map. We finally found a tram map and saw that we had got off one stop too early...or so we thought. So back on the tram to the proper stop and we discovered that the stop names were displayed on the ticket validation box but was easy to miss. So we got off at the stop and once again, looked for the yellow footprints and found absolutely nothing. It was now getting to be darker, our bags were heavy and it was Sunday so we didn’t know how long trams and stores would be open until. So we went to a supermarket to ask for directions. Instead, after asking a dozen people, we asked if we could use an outlet and look up our directions that we had saved on the laptop. As it turns out, we went to the wrong stop in the complete opposite direction!! So we had to head back to the tram stop and hope that trams ran past 930pm on a Sunday. We anxiously waited at the stop until low and behold, the number 6 tram rolled up. Perfect! So back through town, past the train station and to the far east side of the town we went. We got off at the proper stop and followed the yellow footprints. I must add that the footprints were worn and difficult to see in daylight never mind by the sporadic streetlights that were now our only source of light. We did however, make it and actually arrived just shy of 10 when reception was closed. We literally caught her on her way out. It would have been ok though because the owner and everyone was having a BBQ out back. Phew! We made it and now when we pass through again on our way to Greece we will know exactly where to go. So thirsty, dirty and hungry we had made it and were ready for bed. We tried to be a little social and at least talked to the young German guy in our room but otherwise were not into the garden party that was happening. Quick stop in Zagreb but we will be able to appreciate it better in a weeks’ time when we are back.
Oh my goodness it’s August!!! We actually cannot believe that we have been on the go for over 6 weeks now. It’s quite unbelievable! Anyhow, we are on the road again getting our train to Croatia this morning. We woke up in good time to get the train station (and blow some Hungarian cash that we had leftover in the supermarket) and make sure we get a magnet for Heather’s collection. So we went to the train station and the train was already there and waiting. So we boarded and were told that Hungarian train reservations are mandatory...apparently not! But the 5 people who did reserve, I think on the whole train all sat in the same cart. So it was us and 3 young German guys were crammed and sweating in one car built for 5. Not so pleasant but they were fun. We had quite the long journey ahead of us and after Heather and I pooled our change together and I went to the food stand (that sells beer) and asked for the cheapest beer and to purchase as much as I could for the money that we had. So we got seven tall cans and off I went back to the train. The five of us all had a tall can together to start off a great train ride. So the three of them, as it turned out, were from Hamburg! We told them that we were there for Hamburg day and impressed them with all of our knowledge of German culture, or what we know of Oktoberfest anyhow. They were on a three week vacation together and we had some good laughs...especially when the train was stopped dead for about 45 minutes to clear customs. Customs you may ask??? Yes, we finally had to actually properly cross a border. So we had our passport stamped by Hungarian border control and Croatian. It was great how quickly they cleared us although the German’s didn’t even need a passport, just an I.D card. We definitely counted our lucky stars though because there were two Oriental girls in the car beside us who got their passports taken for awhile and then we didn’t see them afterwards...not sure of the story there but they disappeared off of the train. On we continued until we finally made it to Zagreb (which is Croatia’s capital apparently). It was nearly 8 by the time we arrived and we had simple instructions to get on tram number 6 and get off at the fifth stop Slavonska. The instructions clearly warned us that there was also a stop on tram 6 in the opposite direction called Slovenska and that was the incorrect stop. However, we weren’t able to clarify this as we were out of juice on the laptop and our ghetto train didn’t have an outlet (or A.C. for that matter). Anyhow, so there was this huge sign in the train station for our Hostel Lika and the directions. So we glance at them and head on to the trams. We get on number six as instructed, count 5 stops and get off. We were then supposed to follow the yellow footprints and that would lead us to the hostel. Well to our surprise there were no footprints. We searched around and found nothing...so we went to the newspaper stand to ask the young girl working there if she knew where the hostel was or the street as we did have the address. She told us that she wasn’t sure but thought it was 1 or 2 stops back on the tram. So we walked back and tried to find the footprints or even a map. We finally found a tram map and saw that we had got off one stop too early...or so we thought. So back on the tram to the proper stop and we discovered that the stop names were displayed on the ticket validation box but was easy to miss. So we got off at the stop and once again, looked for the yellow footprints and found absolutely nothing. It was now getting to be darker, our bags were heavy and it was Sunday so we didn’t know how long trams and stores would be open until. So we went to a supermarket to ask for directions. Instead, after asking a dozen people, we asked if we could use an outlet and look up our directions that we had saved on the laptop. As it turns out, we went to the wrong stop in the complete opposite direction!! So we had to head back to the tram stop and hope that trams ran past 930pm on a Sunday. We anxiously waited at the stop until low and behold, the number 6 tram rolled up. Perfect! So back through town, past the train station and to the far east side of the town we went. We got off at the proper stop and followed the yellow footprints. I must add that the footprints were worn and difficult to see in daylight never mind by the sporadic streetlights that were now our only source of light. We did however, make it and actually arrived just shy of 10 when reception was closed. We literally caught her on her way out. It would have been ok though because the owner and everyone was having a BBQ out back. Phew! We made it and now when we pass through again on our way to Greece we will know exactly where to go. So thirsty, dirty and hungry we had made it and were ready for bed. We tried to be a little social and at least talked to the young German guy in our room but otherwise were not into the garden party that was happening. Quick stop in Zagreb but we will be able to appreciate it better in a weeks’ time when we are back.
Our Cultural Experience!!
Saturday, July 31, 2010
What a terrible night. The first abrupt awakening was around 230 when this old woman (60+) decided to come find her room (although we had seen her early in the night) and wake everyone up. She flicked on the light, and had the nerve to wake us up and ask us if we were using more than one locker and if this pile of stuff was ours. We clearly weren’t and the things she spoke about were not ours. So, we were annoyed at the fact that she woke us up at that hour and was being ridiculous. She was quite angry that there wasn’t a locker for her to use but really, she should have checked in at a reasonable time and maybe someone could have accommodated her. So we settled back to sleep and a few hours later I was woken again by someone turning on all of the lights and poking around her things. At first, I didn’t think too much of it assuming she was just grabbing something and would soon turn down the lights and go to bed, but I was severely wrong. The girl proceeded to slowly walk around the room gathering her things one by one and unpacking and repacking her bag. A few minutes in, I asked her kindly to shut off the lights...as it was 430 in the morning and the rest of the room was clearly sleeping or trying to at least. She said no, that she would need around 30mins to pack as she was leaving early this morning. I was so annoyed; it would be common courtesy to pack your belongings the night before if you knew you were leaving early in the morning. So off she went packing her things and organizing for about 45 minutes. Taking her sweet ass time!!! I gave her a little attitude before deciding it was a lost cause as she was doing what she wanted and didn’t speak very good English. Nice manners on her though! So after another solid night’s sleep we decided to sleep in a bit and have a bit of lazy day. We wanted to go to the flea market and see if they had dresses and fun things to buy and just poke around town. So we headed up towards the market, which ended up being a junky garage sale. It was a “cultural experience” to say the least. We couldn’t believe that this was marked on a tourist map. So instead of staying at the junk market, we went to the shopping mall!!! After wandering the mall for a few hours, we ended up both buying dresses from the vendors in the underground. They were much more reasonably priced and for the same dresses being sold in the shops. We have done H&M a few times so we are waiting for their fall collection to come out before we will be probably be making any new purchases there. Oh well, mission accomplished!! Long flowing dresses for our upcoming beach vacation, as Dubrovnik is only a few days away. We had to hurry back to the hostel, shower and get ready for our dinner date!! YEAH!! We had make Facebook plans with Ari and Andrew (remember the Aussie couple who are doing the around the world tour that we met in Prague) as they were in Budapest for the Grand Prix. So they had heard about this steak house by their hostel (other side of town for us) that was quite reasonably priced and really good food. So we were pretty excited to meet up with them and hear what was new with them. It was really a good dinner (the goulash was exceptional and Heather really enjoyed her bacon and cheese wrapped chicken) and was with great company. We got chatting so late that the metro had shut down and we had to walk back to our side of town. Our shoes were not walking shoes and not appropriate for long treks but we had no choice. Anyhow, we said our goodbyes to Andrew and Ari and headed towards the nightlife. We were looking for this bar with a rooftop patio and different vibes in the rooms but were struggling to find it. Once we did locate it, we were greeted with a black door and a man standing in it. We had to walk to the roof and that is where the party was going. We had a few drinks, met some English boys and one drugged out Danish guy before we called it a night. The night was not over yet, when we were getting showered and ready earlier in the day, we met some English girls who were rooming with us. We had told them about the crazy old lady that was staying in the room with us and how she was nuts and quite rude. Anyhow, it had been decided that we were going to get our revenge tonight but so that it just affected her, not the whole room. We didn’t want to be as rude as she was. So we were going to “accidently” wake her up for a stupid question. Anyhow, so when we arrived back home at around 3am, she wasn’t there. Her things were there but not her. So we assumed she was getting drunk again and hadn’t yet made it home. She didn’t come home at all...but low and behold, this morning she was at breakfast, dressed in the same clothes she arrived in 2 days ago, drinking beer for breakfast. Apparently she also had a breakdown to one of the English girls about her life and how her children don’t like her or talk to her. It was pretty sad but all the same we were still bitter about her ignorance. So we were glad we didn’t reciprocate and be rude to her back, but I guess Karma will take care of things.
What a terrible night. The first abrupt awakening was around 230 when this old woman (60+) decided to come find her room (although we had seen her early in the night) and wake everyone up. She flicked on the light, and had the nerve to wake us up and ask us if we were using more than one locker and if this pile of stuff was ours. We clearly weren’t and the things she spoke about were not ours. So, we were annoyed at the fact that she woke us up at that hour and was being ridiculous. She was quite angry that there wasn’t a locker for her to use but really, she should have checked in at a reasonable time and maybe someone could have accommodated her. So we settled back to sleep and a few hours later I was woken again by someone turning on all of the lights and poking around her things. At first, I didn’t think too much of it assuming she was just grabbing something and would soon turn down the lights and go to bed, but I was severely wrong. The girl proceeded to slowly walk around the room gathering her things one by one and unpacking and repacking her bag. A few minutes in, I asked her kindly to shut off the lights...as it was 430 in the morning and the rest of the room was clearly sleeping or trying to at least. She said no, that she would need around 30mins to pack as she was leaving early this morning. I was so annoyed; it would be common courtesy to pack your belongings the night before if you knew you were leaving early in the morning. So off she went packing her things and organizing for about 45 minutes. Taking her sweet ass time!!! I gave her a little attitude before deciding it was a lost cause as she was doing what she wanted and didn’t speak very good English. Nice manners on her though! So after another solid night’s sleep we decided to sleep in a bit and have a bit of lazy day. We wanted to go to the flea market and see if they had dresses and fun things to buy and just poke around town. So we headed up towards the market, which ended up being a junky garage sale. It was a “cultural experience” to say the least. We couldn’t believe that this was marked on a tourist map. So instead of staying at the junk market, we went to the shopping mall!!! After wandering the mall for a few hours, we ended up both buying dresses from the vendors in the underground. They were much more reasonably priced and for the same dresses being sold in the shops. We have done H&M a few times so we are waiting for their fall collection to come out before we will be probably be making any new purchases there. Oh well, mission accomplished!! Long flowing dresses for our upcoming beach vacation, as Dubrovnik is only a few days away. We had to hurry back to the hostel, shower and get ready for our dinner date!! YEAH!! We had make Facebook plans with Ari and Andrew (remember the Aussie couple who are doing the around the world tour that we met in Prague) as they were in Budapest for the Grand Prix. So they had heard about this steak house by their hostel (other side of town for us) that was quite reasonably priced and really good food. So we were pretty excited to meet up with them and hear what was new with them. It was really a good dinner (the goulash was exceptional and Heather really enjoyed her bacon and cheese wrapped chicken) and was with great company. We got chatting so late that the metro had shut down and we had to walk back to our side of town. Our shoes were not walking shoes and not appropriate for long treks but we had no choice. Anyhow, we said our goodbyes to Andrew and Ari and headed towards the nightlife. We were looking for this bar with a rooftop patio and different vibes in the rooms but were struggling to find it. Once we did locate it, we were greeted with a black door and a man standing in it. We had to walk to the roof and that is where the party was going. We had a few drinks, met some English boys and one drugged out Danish guy before we called it a night. The night was not over yet, when we were getting showered and ready earlier in the day, we met some English girls who were rooming with us. We had told them about the crazy old lady that was staying in the room with us and how she was nuts and quite rude. Anyhow, it had been decided that we were going to get our revenge tonight but so that it just affected her, not the whole room. We didn’t want to be as rude as she was. So we were going to “accidently” wake her up for a stupid question. Anyhow, so when we arrived back home at around 3am, she wasn’t there. Her things were there but not her. So we assumed she was getting drunk again and hadn’t yet made it home. She didn’t come home at all...but low and behold, this morning she was at breakfast, dressed in the same clothes she arrived in 2 days ago, drinking beer for breakfast. Apparently she also had a breakdown to one of the English girls about her life and how her children don’t like her or talk to her. It was pretty sad but all the same we were still bitter about her ignorance. So we were glad we didn’t reciprocate and be rude to her back, but I guess Karma will take care of things.
Bathing in Budapest
Friday, July 30, 2010
We had to get up and moving this morning despite our awful sleep last night. There was a free walking tour that started at 1030 on the other side of the town. So, we made our way there and joined in. The tour was not great but I suppose it has to do with the information and sights available. The history was pretty broken up and focused on communism, not thrilling at all and the buildings of the communist days are really quite ugly. Oh well, it was our way of seeing Budapest in a few hours. Then we were off to the baths. Budapest has a lot of Turkish baths and we were told that one in particular was big and really nice. So, we headed across town and when we arrived, were definitely not disappointed. There is a large outdoor pool that was quite popular along with several indoor ones. We started outdoors, and then worked our way through the indoor ones. They were all of varying temperatures and there were both wet and dry saunas. They were really hot but felt good! We spent about 3 hours at the baths and then decided to head back. We grabbed some takeaway and wine on the way home and headed to the terrace for dinner. It was a pretty chill day but we were quite tired and not showered at this point so we decided to have an early night and go out tomorrow.
We had to get up and moving this morning despite our awful sleep last night. There was a free walking tour that started at 1030 on the other side of the town. So, we made our way there and joined in. The tour was not great but I suppose it has to do with the information and sights available. The history was pretty broken up and focused on communism, not thrilling at all and the buildings of the communist days are really quite ugly. Oh well, it was our way of seeing Budapest in a few hours. Then we were off to the baths. Budapest has a lot of Turkish baths and we were told that one in particular was big and really nice. So, we headed across town and when we arrived, were definitely not disappointed. There is a large outdoor pool that was quite popular along with several indoor ones. We started outdoors, and then worked our way through the indoor ones. They were all of varying temperatures and there were both wet and dry saunas. They were really hot but felt good! We spent about 3 hours at the baths and then decided to head back. We grabbed some takeaway and wine on the way home and headed to the terrace for dinner. It was a pretty chill day but we were quite tired and not showered at this point so we decided to have an early night and go out tomorrow.
Mexican in Budapest
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Woke up this morning, packed our things and were off to the train station. Lydia had a morning train to Vienna so we all headed out together. We stopped at the supermarket and were sure to label our produce this time. Our train was at 11 and was about 6 hours long. So we were prepared for another long day spent on the train. It rained like cats and dogs as soon as we boarded the train (thank goodness) and subsided by the time we arrived. We easily found our way to our hostel in Budapest, again though we were on a different currency. So we grabbed some Hungarian cash and headed to the hostel. We had booked Casa de la musica hostel and it was definitely colourful. The whole place was in bright colours and had a terrace with a bar and swimming pool. Pretty sweet!! So we checked in, great people who work/own the place and we went to our room to get settled. We had previously decided on the train to go to a restaurant recommended by the travel guide that was Mexican. Iguana was what it was called, and it was just a short metro ride away. So we had a pint first on the terrace and then headed for some eats. Iguana was a really cool place! It was pretty traditional Mexican, for Hungary anyhow, and we really enjoyed it. It could have been the Litre of Margaritas that we had too. It was a great start to Hungary and although not overly traditional, we needed a taste of home. We headed back to the hostel afterwards as we had both planned Skype dates with our families. The time change is really killing us. The Skype session didn’t end until about 230am our time. Totally worth it!!
Woke up this morning, packed our things and were off to the train station. Lydia had a morning train to Vienna so we all headed out together. We stopped at the supermarket and were sure to label our produce this time. Our train was at 11 and was about 6 hours long. So we were prepared for another long day spent on the train. It rained like cats and dogs as soon as we boarded the train (thank goodness) and subsided by the time we arrived. We easily found our way to our hostel in Budapest, again though we were on a different currency. So we grabbed some Hungarian cash and headed to the hostel. We had booked Casa de la musica hostel and it was definitely colourful. The whole place was in bright colours and had a terrace with a bar and swimming pool. Pretty sweet!! So we checked in, great people who work/own the place and we went to our room to get settled. We had previously decided on the train to go to a restaurant recommended by the travel guide that was Mexican. Iguana was what it was called, and it was just a short metro ride away. So we had a pint first on the terrace and then headed for some eats. Iguana was a really cool place! It was pretty traditional Mexican, for Hungary anyhow, and we really enjoyed it. It could have been the Litre of Margaritas that we had too. It was a great start to Hungary and although not overly traditional, we needed a taste of home. We headed back to the hostel afterwards as we had both planned Skype dates with our families. The time change is really killing us. The Skype session didn’t end until about 230am our time. Totally worth it!!
Eagle's Nest
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
The bus shuttle picked us up at 820 sharp and we were on our way. We went to the tour bus, boarded and were off. Our guide that day was Andreas and he wore lederhosen so it was already a good start. We headed off to the Austrian/German border and were off to the Alps. It’s quite a steep incline up the mountain and the tour bus had to stop at one point and we switched to public transport which had extra engines and breaks meant to climb up the mountain. We were standing so it was even more interesting of a ride up the mountain. We arrived to the summit and then took the bronze elevator to the top which was a present to Hitler from Mussolini for his 50th birthday. Very cool! When we arrived to the top of Eagle’s Nest it was amazing and very cold. The clouds weren’t too bad so we had a pretty good view with decent visibility. There were places to climb and take pictures so for the next hour we did so. The only thing I was quite disappointed with was the lack of information available about Eagle’s Nest aside from what our tour guide said. I expected some write ups or something on top of the mountain. It wasn’t a big hot spot for Hitler since he was afraid of heights but it is still significant in history. Anyhow, amazing views and very tranquil. We then came back down and headed to a small village of which we really didn’t see because we were too busy eating more schnitzel, goulash and drinking Stiegl beer. So back we went to Salzburg! Along the journey however, we started talking to some Australian dude who had heard about a beer festival and asked if we were going to check it out. Of course!! We were asking our guide though and he didn’t know of any beer festival and doubted there was one. Apparently there was one going on at the Stiegl brewery and was huge. Who knows? Maybe we will check it out later. But for now we had to go back to Mirabell Gardens, we missed the statues of the gnomes and had to go get some pics. We also went up the elevator of Hotel Stein and onto the rooftop patio to snap a few photos of the best view of Salzburg. We headed back to our hostel to drink up our beers and perhaps head to the brewery to check things out. We met back up with our roommate Lydia and she chatted with us for a bit and soon we were drinking beers together and playing cards. Before we knew it, it was 6 or so and we were quite hungry. We decided to hit up the Thai shack restaurant again and visit our friend there. Haha. Again very difficult to find out what the menu said and what to try but he took care of it and we had again, an amazing meal. This time we made sure there was a lot of beef and meat. We were all feeling slightly anemic and needing some more meat. After our meal and beer we headed back to the hostel once again, it was again raining too. So we headed back and had some girl chat over a few beers and really just headed to bed. Since it was raining out, the beer garden wouldn’t be very good and nobody in town or from Austria knew about this festival so we thought it was probably just the brewery and beer garden. Anyhow, off to Hungary tomorrow morning.
The bus shuttle picked us up at 820 sharp and we were on our way. We went to the tour bus, boarded and were off. Our guide that day was Andreas and he wore lederhosen so it was already a good start. We headed off to the Austrian/German border and were off to the Alps. It’s quite a steep incline up the mountain and the tour bus had to stop at one point and we switched to public transport which had extra engines and breaks meant to climb up the mountain. We were standing so it was even more interesting of a ride up the mountain. We arrived to the summit and then took the bronze elevator to the top which was a present to Hitler from Mussolini for his 50th birthday. Very cool! When we arrived to the top of Eagle’s Nest it was amazing and very cold. The clouds weren’t too bad so we had a pretty good view with decent visibility. There were places to climb and take pictures so for the next hour we did so. The only thing I was quite disappointed with was the lack of information available about Eagle’s Nest aside from what our tour guide said. I expected some write ups or something on top of the mountain. It wasn’t a big hot spot for Hitler since he was afraid of heights but it is still significant in history. Anyhow, amazing views and very tranquil. We then came back down and headed to a small village of which we really didn’t see because we were too busy eating more schnitzel, goulash and drinking Stiegl beer. So back we went to Salzburg! Along the journey however, we started talking to some Australian dude who had heard about a beer festival and asked if we were going to check it out. Of course!! We were asking our guide though and he didn’t know of any beer festival and doubted there was one. Apparently there was one going on at the Stiegl brewery and was huge. Who knows? Maybe we will check it out later. But for now we had to go back to Mirabell Gardens, we missed the statues of the gnomes and had to go get some pics. We also went up the elevator of Hotel Stein and onto the rooftop patio to snap a few photos of the best view of Salzburg. We headed back to our hostel to drink up our beers and perhaps head to the brewery to check things out. We met back up with our roommate Lydia and she chatted with us for a bit and soon we were drinking beers together and playing cards. Before we knew it, it was 6 or so and we were quite hungry. We decided to hit up the Thai shack restaurant again and visit our friend there. Haha. Again very difficult to find out what the menu said and what to try but he took care of it and we had again, an amazing meal. This time we made sure there was a lot of beef and meat. We were all feeling slightly anemic and needing some more meat. After our meal and beer we headed back to the hostel once again, it was again raining too. So we headed back and had some girl chat over a few beers and really just headed to bed. Since it was raining out, the beer garden wouldn’t be very good and nobody in town or from Austria knew about this festival so we thought it was probably just the brewery and beer garden. Anyhow, off to Hungary tomorrow morning.
The Hills are Alive
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
We went into Salzburg today and checked out the old town. Again, not a whole lot to see in Salzburg other than the fact that the Sound of Music was filmed here, so we just wondered around. We were going to inquire about the Sound of Music bus tour so we made our way towards their bus station. Along the way, we stopped at Mirabell Gardens and snapped some photos of us in the same places that were filmed in the Sound of Music. It was interesting to see that the spots were very much the same as they were in the film. Most of the filming was done in Salzburg and only some indoor sets were made in Hollywood. So we made it to the Panorama tours spot and decided to take the 2pm tour. It just so happens that the rain had subsided and would be great weather for a bus tour. So we hopped on the bus and were off. Our tour guide was something else! He had a cheesy sounding voice and sounded like a game show host. It was pretty brutal! The tour was interesting I`d say. The places that they did stop at were nice and we did get to go to the place where they filmed the backyard of the Van Trap house, the gazebo, the main entrance to the house, the tree lined drive, and the wedding chapel. We didn’t get to stop at Nonnberg Abbey but drove by really quickly. It was quite the let down and false advertising. We were taken to some lakes too and it was quite picturesque. Anyhow, it was interesting enough and they did sell beer on the bus so it wasn`t all bad. We had booked at the same time, a tour for the morning to go to Hitler’s Eagle`s Nest in the Bavarian Alps. So we hoped this tour would be better or worthwhile anyhow. So once we returned to the hostel, we had our grocery store supper, some beers and just chilled and watched some football. Again, not an overly exciting evening but we had an early start the next morning.
We went into Salzburg today and checked out the old town. Again, not a whole lot to see in Salzburg other than the fact that the Sound of Music was filmed here, so we just wondered around. We were going to inquire about the Sound of Music bus tour so we made our way towards their bus station. Along the way, we stopped at Mirabell Gardens and snapped some photos of us in the same places that were filmed in the Sound of Music. It was interesting to see that the spots were very much the same as they were in the film. Most of the filming was done in Salzburg and only some indoor sets were made in Hollywood. So we made it to the Panorama tours spot and decided to take the 2pm tour. It just so happens that the rain had subsided and would be great weather for a bus tour. So we hopped on the bus and were off. Our tour guide was something else! He had a cheesy sounding voice and sounded like a game show host. It was pretty brutal! The tour was interesting I`d say. The places that they did stop at were nice and we did get to go to the place where they filmed the backyard of the Van Trap house, the gazebo, the main entrance to the house, the tree lined drive, and the wedding chapel. We didn’t get to stop at Nonnberg Abbey but drove by really quickly. It was quite the let down and false advertising. We were taken to some lakes too and it was quite picturesque. Anyhow, it was interesting enough and they did sell beer on the bus so it wasn`t all bad. We had booked at the same time, a tour for the morning to go to Hitler’s Eagle`s Nest in the Bavarian Alps. So we hoped this tour would be better or worthwhile anyhow. So once we returned to the hostel, we had our grocery store supper, some beers and just chilled and watched some football. Again, not an overly exciting evening but we had an early start the next morning.
Productive Day in Salzburg
Monday, July 26, 2010
Woke up and had to check out and head for the Haupbahnhof or the train station. We got all packed up, went the grocery store and headed for the train station. We did however, have a most “pleasant” experience at the supermarket. We grabbed all of our items, headed for the cash and got the most awful look of disgust as the cash lady grabbed all of our produce and just walked away from the register. At first we didn’t know what to think until we realized that you have to weigh and price tag all of your own produce before proceeding to the checkout. Oops! She was so angry and was just huffing and puffing the whole time. We apologized but I think it may have gotten lost in translation. Oops. Oh well, we’ll never see her again! Lesson learned, look for weigh scales in the produce section next time. So over to the train station we went and hopped on a really empty train, spread out and were pumped to have all this room in the empty compartment. That is until the conductor came by and said this train had ended and there wouldn’t be a return to Salzburg. So we had to switch trains and luckily the other one wasn’t all that busy either. Through the train ride only a few people sat in our room for short periods of time and we were still able to spread out and be comfortable. Off to Salzburg we go!! We arrived to some really nice weather and a considerable increase in temperature. Needless to say by the time we arrived at our hostel, we were warm and needing a cool off. We wanted to finish the planning we had started in Vienna so we took that evening to do so. We booked our ferries from Athens to Ios and Santorini and back, and also our bus trip from Athens to Corfu to stay at the Pink Palace (sure to be a good time). We also looked into our big splurge of the trip, a villa in Santorini. It was amazing to look for places to stay and where we wanted to be. The views are great and the villas look spectacular. We did narrow it down though and gave it a day to think on and we had emailed a few places to check availability. By now it was nearly 8 and we were quite hungry. There was this badly photocopied menu of some nearby restaurant at reception so we decided to just go there and get some food into us. We arrived at was surely was a shack converted into a restaurant. It had outdoor seating and was a little Thai place. So we stepped up to order and really got one answer. Pad Thai! That was what we could understand from the menu and what the owner working the counter told us to get. So we did and wow it was really good! The cooks were two Thai women and they were fantastic cooks. We really enjoyed it and also tried for the first time Radler beer which has grapefruit mixed in. It was quite refreshing but light in nature. Only 2.5%! Anyhow, we went back to the hostel and got things organized, met our Australian roommate Lydia and called it a night.
Woke up and had to check out and head for the Haupbahnhof or the train station. We got all packed up, went the grocery store and headed for the train station. We did however, have a most “pleasant” experience at the supermarket. We grabbed all of our items, headed for the cash and got the most awful look of disgust as the cash lady grabbed all of our produce and just walked away from the register. At first we didn’t know what to think until we realized that you have to weigh and price tag all of your own produce before proceeding to the checkout. Oops! She was so angry and was just huffing and puffing the whole time. We apologized but I think it may have gotten lost in translation. Oops. Oh well, we’ll never see her again! Lesson learned, look for weigh scales in the produce section next time. So over to the train station we went and hopped on a really empty train, spread out and were pumped to have all this room in the empty compartment. That is until the conductor came by and said this train had ended and there wouldn’t be a return to Salzburg. So we had to switch trains and luckily the other one wasn’t all that busy either. Through the train ride only a few people sat in our room for short periods of time and we were still able to spread out and be comfortable. Off to Salzburg we go!! We arrived to some really nice weather and a considerable increase in temperature. Needless to say by the time we arrived at our hostel, we were warm and needing a cool off. We wanted to finish the planning we had started in Vienna so we took that evening to do so. We booked our ferries from Athens to Ios and Santorini and back, and also our bus trip from Athens to Corfu to stay at the Pink Palace (sure to be a good time). We also looked into our big splurge of the trip, a villa in Santorini. It was amazing to look for places to stay and where we wanted to be. The views are great and the villas look spectacular. We did narrow it down though and gave it a day to think on and we had emailed a few places to check availability. By now it was nearly 8 and we were quite hungry. There was this badly photocopied menu of some nearby restaurant at reception so we decided to just go there and get some food into us. We arrived at was surely was a shack converted into a restaurant. It had outdoor seating and was a little Thai place. So we stepped up to order and really got one answer. Pad Thai! That was what we could understand from the menu and what the owner working the counter told us to get. So we did and wow it was really good! The cooks were two Thai women and they were fantastic cooks. We really enjoyed it and also tried for the first time Radler beer which has grapefruit mixed in. It was quite refreshing but light in nature. Only 2.5%! Anyhow, we went back to the hostel and got things organized, met our Australian roommate Lydia and called it a night.
Productive Day in Budapest
Monday, July 26, 2010
Woke up and had to check out and head for the Haupbahnhof or the train station. We got all packed up, went the grocery store and headed for the train station. We did however, have a most “pleasant” experience at the supermarket. We grabbed all of our items, headed for the cash and got the most awful look of disgust as the cash lady grabbed all of our produce and just walked away from the register. At first we didn’t know what to think until we realized that you have to weigh and price tag all of your own produce before proceeding to the checkout. Oops! She was so angry and was just huffing and puffing the whole time. We apologized but I think it may have gotten lost in translation. Oops. Oh well, we’ll never see her again! Lesson learned, look for weigh scales in the produce section next time. So over to the train station we went and hopped on a really empty train, spread out and were pumped to have all this room in the empty compartment. That is until the conductor came by and said this train had ended and there wouldn’t be a return to Salzburg. So we had to switch trains and luckily the other one wasn’t all that busy either. Through the train ride only a few people sat in our room for short periods of time and we were still able to spread out and be comfortable. Off to Salzburg we go!! We arrived to some really nice weather and a considerable increase in temperature. Needless to say by the time we arrived at our hostel, we were warm and needing a cool off. We wanted to finish the planning we had started in Vienna so we took that evening to do so. We booked our ferries from Athens to Ios and Santorini and back, and also our bus trip from Athens to Corfu to stay at the Pink Palace (sure to be a good time). We also looked into our big splurge of the trip, a villa in Santorini. It was amazing to look for places to stay and where we wanted to be. The views are great and the villas look spectacular. We did narrow it down though and gave it a day to think on and we had emailed a few places to check availability. By now it was nearly 8 and we were quite hungry. There was this badly photocopied menu of some nearby restaurant at reception so we decided to just go there and get some food into us. We arrived at was surely was a shack converted into a restaurant. It had outdoor seating and was a little Thai place. So we stepped up to order and really got one answer. Pad Thai! That was what we could understand from the menu and what the owner working the counter told us to get. So we did and wow it was really good! The cooks were two Thai women and they were fantastic cooks. We really enjoyed it and also tried for the first time Radler beer which has grapefruit mixed in. It was quite refreshing but light in nature. Only 2.5%! Anyhow, we went back to the hostel and got things organized, met our Australian roommate Lydia and called it a night.
Woke up and had to check out and head for the Haupbahnhof or the train station. We got all packed up, went the grocery store and headed for the train station. We did however, have a most “pleasant” experience at the supermarket. We grabbed all of our items, headed for the cash and got the most awful look of disgust as the cash lady grabbed all of our produce and just walked away from the register. At first we didn’t know what to think until we realized that you have to weigh and price tag all of your own produce before proceeding to the checkout. Oops! She was so angry and was just huffing and puffing the whole time. We apologized but I think it may have gotten lost in translation. Oops. Oh well, we’ll never see her again! Lesson learned, look for weigh scales in the produce section next time. So over to the train station we went and hopped on a really empty train, spread out and were pumped to have all this room in the empty compartment. That is until the conductor came by and said this train had ended and there wouldn’t be a return to Salzburg. So we had to switch trains and luckily the other one wasn’t all that busy either. Through the train ride only a few people sat in our room for short periods of time and we were still able to spread out and be comfortable. Off to Salzburg we go!! We arrived to some really nice weather and a considerable increase in temperature. Needless to say by the time we arrived at our hostel, we were warm and needing a cool off. We wanted to finish the planning we had started in Vienna so we took that evening to do so. We booked our ferries from Athens to Ios and Santorini and back, and also our bus trip from Athens to Corfu to stay at the Pink Palace (sure to be a good time). We also looked into our big splurge of the trip, a villa in Santorini. It was amazing to look for places to stay and where we wanted to be. The views are great and the villas look spectacular. We did narrow it down though and gave it a day to think on and we had emailed a few places to check availability. By now it was nearly 8 and we were quite hungry. There was this badly photocopied menu of some nearby restaurant at reception so we decided to just go there and get some food into us. We arrived at was surely was a shack converted into a restaurant. It had outdoor seating and was a little Thai place. So we stepped up to order and really got one answer. Pad Thai! That was what we could understand from the menu and what the owner working the counter told us to get. So we did and wow it was really good! The cooks were two Thai women and they were fantastic cooks. We really enjoyed it and also tried for the first time Radler beer which has grapefruit mixed in. It was quite refreshing but light in nature. Only 2.5%! Anyhow, we went back to the hostel and got things organized, met our Australian roommate Lydia and called it a night.
Popcorn and Production!!
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Wow what a day. We had popcorn for breakfast and spent the entire day planning for the next few weeks of our trip. It was quite productive but very, very time consuming. We figured out all of our transportation, lodging and itinerary for Croatia, and Athens. We are sailing to Dubrovnik from the north of Croatia and back and then flying to Athens from Austria. We were pretty excited but at the same time feeling quite faint and needing food...considering it was now 530pm. So, we decided since we are craving it so much, to go to the sushi place in town. It had a half price menu where maki rolls of 12 pieces were like 3 Euro. It was amazing. We ordered so much food and loved it. The only thing was, that the sushi didn’t have any spicy sauce...we miss Ye’s in that regard. We really can’t complain though because we had really cheap sushi in Austria and got our fix for now. We were really tired and decided to head back to the hostel for a nap and then wake up and go out back to the travel shack later that night. Well that was the end of that...we didn’t get up when the alarm when off and had a solid 14 hours sleep. What a great night!! Hehe
Wow what a day. We had popcorn for breakfast and spent the entire day planning for the next few weeks of our trip. It was quite productive but very, very time consuming. We figured out all of our transportation, lodging and itinerary for Croatia, and Athens. We are sailing to Dubrovnik from the north of Croatia and back and then flying to Athens from Austria. We were pretty excited but at the same time feeling quite faint and needing food...considering it was now 530pm. So, we decided since we are craving it so much, to go to the sushi place in town. It had a half price menu where maki rolls of 12 pieces were like 3 Euro. It was amazing. We ordered so much food and loved it. The only thing was, that the sushi didn’t have any spicy sauce...we miss Ye’s in that regard. We really can’t complain though because we had really cheap sushi in Austria and got our fix for now. We were really tired and decided to head back to the hostel for a nap and then wake up and go out back to the travel shack later that night. Well that was the end of that...we didn’t get up when the alarm when off and had a solid 14 hours sleep. What a great night!! Hehe
Fireshots and Aussies - Oh My!!!
Saturday, July 24, 2010
We decided to go check out Vienna today. So, we got up early and headed into the old town on the metro. It was a pretty overcast day and it had been spitting all morning so we weren’t expecting it to be a good weather day. It was also quite cold out so we grabbed a Starbs and walked around the shops on the pedestrian road. It was a neat little street with lots of culture and street performers etc. So without much luck finding dresses we continued on to the palace. It was quite large and had a lot of different sections to it. The gardens were the prettiest part by far but at this point I was strangely feeling quite dizzy and lightheaded so we decided to head back. Nurse Heather being the great friend that she is, was quite concerned and followed behind me so as to catch me if I passed out. Haha! I’m sure that would have ended well!!! Once we got back to the room, I had a Gatorade, Advil and water and a little chill out time. After a shower and a little rest I was on my A game ready to hit up the town. We headed to a little restaurant that was recommended to us that served traditional Austrian food. Meaning schnitzel and sauerkraut!!! MMM!!! We saw what the schnitzel looked like and only one word can describe, ENORMOUS!! So we shared a schnitzel and a side of sauerkraut with some local beer to wash it all down. It was a really great meal; the potato salad that came with it was great too. Then we decided to check out Vienna nightlife. We had a map with a few spots on it so we decided to check them out. The first stop was an Irish pub, not a lot going on but we enjoyed a pint there anyhow. Then we decided to go to the Aussie pub since they always guarantee a good time. It was called the travel shack and immediately we were welcomed to shots and a loud roar of people having a good time. We grabbed some pints and decided to check out what was happening. The first table we saw, they had a contraption where you take a shot (not sure what it was, other than strong!)Then you snuff minty powder and then there is this “fan” like device that has like twine spinning that you put your nose near. It was quite an experience. There was an Aussie girl who bought us each a shot so we partook in the experience. It was definitely interesting. There was also a nail game, where you hammer the nails into a huge tree trunk...much like what we have played at K-W Oktoberfest. Then the Irish girls that we met suggested that we all do a Sambuca fire shot. So I was volunteered to go first! First you wet your mouth and lips, take the shot, go down on one knee and open your mouth wide. Then the bartender lights the shot in your mouth and shakes cinnamon in to make the flames grow high, then finishes by shutting your mouth and you swallow it. WOW! It was really cool to watch but the fire actually burned the inside of your mouth and my lips were really sore. We were all taking pictures of each other and the only one that actually had a good picture of them was Heather so for the photo, we all did another one. Wow did our mouths really hurt the next day. Oh well!! So we finished the night well and went to go to a club called Pandora’s Box. It was dead so we went and got a bratwurst and hit the hay.
We decided to go check out Vienna today. So, we got up early and headed into the old town on the metro. It was a pretty overcast day and it had been spitting all morning so we weren’t expecting it to be a good weather day. It was also quite cold out so we grabbed a Starbs and walked around the shops on the pedestrian road. It was a neat little street with lots of culture and street performers etc. So without much luck finding dresses we continued on to the palace. It was quite large and had a lot of different sections to it. The gardens were the prettiest part by far but at this point I was strangely feeling quite dizzy and lightheaded so we decided to head back. Nurse Heather being the great friend that she is, was quite concerned and followed behind me so as to catch me if I passed out. Haha! I’m sure that would have ended well!!! Once we got back to the room, I had a Gatorade, Advil and water and a little chill out time. After a shower and a little rest I was on my A game ready to hit up the town. We headed to a little restaurant that was recommended to us that served traditional Austrian food. Meaning schnitzel and sauerkraut!!! MMM!!! We saw what the schnitzel looked like and only one word can describe, ENORMOUS!! So we shared a schnitzel and a side of sauerkraut with some local beer to wash it all down. It was a really great meal; the potato salad that came with it was great too. Then we decided to check out Vienna nightlife. We had a map with a few spots on it so we decided to check them out. The first stop was an Irish pub, not a lot going on but we enjoyed a pint there anyhow. Then we decided to go to the Aussie pub since they always guarantee a good time. It was called the travel shack and immediately we were welcomed to shots and a loud roar of people having a good time. We grabbed some pints and decided to check out what was happening. The first table we saw, they had a contraption where you take a shot (not sure what it was, other than strong!)Then you snuff minty powder and then there is this “fan” like device that has like twine spinning that you put your nose near. It was quite an experience. There was an Aussie girl who bought us each a shot so we partook in the experience. It was definitely interesting. There was also a nail game, where you hammer the nails into a huge tree trunk...much like what we have played at K-W Oktoberfest. Then the Irish girls that we met suggested that we all do a Sambuca fire shot. So I was volunteered to go first! First you wet your mouth and lips, take the shot, go down on one knee and open your mouth wide. Then the bartender lights the shot in your mouth and shakes cinnamon in to make the flames grow high, then finishes by shutting your mouth and you swallow it. WOW! It was really cool to watch but the fire actually burned the inside of your mouth and my lips were really sore. We were all taking pictures of each other and the only one that actually had a good picture of them was Heather so for the photo, we all did another one. Wow did our mouths really hurt the next day. Oh well!! So we finished the night well and went to go to a club called Pandora’s Box. It was dead so we went and got a bratwurst and hit the hay.
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