Pre-tour
Thu 4th Sept 2014 to Fri 5th Sept – Canberra to Prague via Melb & Dubai
I was picked up by the 'chauffeur' drive driver and driven to the airport, all part of the business class ticket. Checked in and I'll see the bags again when I arrive in Prague. I found the Qantas lounge and as I have an hour to kill until boarding, got myself something to nibble and a glass of wine & read until it was time to board. The flight QF833, departed for Melbourne at 6.35pm.
The plane took off on time and landed shortly before 7.45pm. I had disembarked and was in the international terminal by 8pm. I had an Express pass, so didn't have to join the long security & customs queues. Just after passing through customs I found the TRS office and claimed back the gst on my new lens for the DSLR and the iPad mini. I found the Qantas lounge and had time to eat a small salad before the flight was called.
The plane pushed back at 9.25pm and we were airborn at 9.40pm. I have window seat 9A.
A glass of Moët & Chandon,
a hot face washer, sound reduction ear phones and a bag of Bvlgari goodies. Then my dinner order was taken.
Smoked Duck starter and Chicken biryani for the main with Voyager Sauvignon Blanc Semillon 2012 Margaret River.
I finally decided to get some sleep, just after midnight, still local time. Slept until 0530, had a drink of water and then got some more shut eye. I finally awoke properly at around 0700 Australia time which is about 1am Dubai time. Breakfast was served a couple of hours before we were due to land, which was supposed to be at 0525. The plane touched down at 0440 and finally came to a stop at around 0450. We then disembarked onto a bus that took us to the terminal. It was now about 0510. This airport is massive and they are in the midst of a major enlargement. Found out the gate # for the next flight and then found the lounge. After having a quick chat with Bill I decided to have a quick walk around the terminal but it was heaving with people, so I retreated back to the calm of the lounge until the flight was called.
One of the views from the lounge.
Once again, we were loaded onto buses and driven out to the plane.
Before the flight deck door was closed.
Planes lined up ahead of us
We had to give way too this Qantas plane
Too much food on offer. Only had fresh fruit, yoghurt & coffee for breakfast and then an hour or so before landing in Prague, had a traditional local Arabic mezze as entree and then a seafood ragout for the main. I gave the desert a miss.
We were at the Prague terminal by 1335 and I had collected my bag & found my driver by 1400. He delivered me to the hotel shortly before 1500 and by the time I checked in, had a shower, changed my clothes, did some hand washing and went out to do some local exploring, it was just after 1600.
My carry-on is almost the same size as my main luggage
The room
The view from my room towards the Castle
First up I located the restaurant that 9 of us are having dinner at tonight. Only about a 5 minute walk from the hotel, then because the weather is much warmer than previously forecast, I found a Marks & Spencer shop & found a light short sleeved top on sale for about $7.00. The forecast for the next 2 days is 26c & sunny. I packed for high teens/ low 20's.
After some more exploring I returned to the hotel, had a quick freshen up & then walked to the restaurant and met up with Geoff, Sandra, Hazel & Paul. After waiting for the others outside for about 10 min, we decided to go into the restaurant until they arrived, about 20 minutes later. A great catch up with good company. We left there around 2100 and I was starting to feel tired. We all went our separate ways. I had been awake for the past 21 hrs, by the time my light went out at 2200.
Sat 6th Sept 2014 – Prague – Pre tour Day 2 – Czech Republic
Walk from the tour hotel to Prague Castle.
Explore the Prague Castle complex and the magnificent St. Vitus Cathedral within. Experience a spectacular vista of the whole city below.
Descend through the picturesque Lesser Town (Malá Strana), walking down the "Royal Way", Nerudova Street, and on to Charles Bridge.
Cross Charles Bridge, one of Europe’s oldest stone bridges, take in the beautiful views along the river, before reaching the Old Town, the medieval centre of Prague.
Explore the cobbled streets around the Old Town Square and stroll into the Jewish Quarter (Josefov), once the largest Jewish ghetto in Europe.
The above was what I planned on doing. This is what really happened.
I woke at around 0330 for a loo break and then slept until 0630 and then got up. Went down for breakfast at around 0730 then back to my room to finish writing yesterday's journal and sent it off. The breakfast spread wasn't too bad and there is at least one tour group staying here, possibly two because the breakfast room was pretty full.
I eventually left the hotel shortly before 10am. I did make it to the Castle complex, via the Old Town square and that area was jam packed with people.
Some scenes on the way up to the Castle area
It was 27c today and humid. Humidity and me don't mix too well. After having a bite to eat for lunch I then tackled the walk up to the castle complex BUT I took a wrong turn and walked up another set of steps,
instead of the ones that I planned to walk up and wasn't too sure where exactly I was when I got to the top. Because I wasn't exactly sure where I was, I didn't even get to visit St. Vitus Cathedral.
After viewing some gardens, I decided to head back down and go back to the hotel. I'll be returning there with the tour, so will get to St. Vitus. It was hot, it was humid & my feet were starting to protest.
There was some interesting street art that I passed on the way down.
I eventually left the hotel shortly before 10am. I did make it to the Castle complex, via the Old Town square and that area was jam packed with people.
Some scenes on the way up to the Castle areaIt was 27c today and humid. Humidity and me don't mix too well. After having a bite to eat for lunch I then tackled the walk up to the castle complex BUT I took a wrong turn and walked up another set of steps,
instead of the ones that I planned to walk up and wasn't too sure where exactly I was when I got to the top. Because I wasn't exactly sure where I was, I didn't even get to visit St. Vitus Cathedral.
After viewing some gardens, I decided to head back down and go back to the hotel. I'll be returning there with the tour, so will get to St. Vitus. It was hot, it was humid & my feet were starting to protest.
There was some interesting street art that I passed on the way down.
After getting back down I took another wrong turn and eventually ended up at the river but one bridge too far, but came across some more street art that I wouldn't have seen, if I hadn't become misplaced.
I managed to get back to the Charles Bridge and find my way to the Old Town and I think there were more people there than earlier this morning. I decided to not even try to visit the Jewish quarter and to head back to the hotel and give my feet and legs a rest. On the way back I managed to take another wrong turn but I eventually arrive back at the hotel around 2.30ish.
I managed to get back to the Charles Bridge and find my way to the Old Town and I think there were more people there than earlier this morning. I decided to not even try to visit the Jewish quarter and to head back to the hotel and give my feet and legs a rest. On the way back I managed to take another wrong turn but I eventually arrive back at the hotel around 2.30ish.
John Young was in the bar and I joined him and ordered a cooling beer. He was on my 2010 tour. About 15 minutes later Cyndy Young checked in. Cyndy was on the same t
Ten minutes later a group of 4 checked in and they are from BC Canada. I had arranged to meet Cyndy back at the bar at 1630, where we had a drink & ordered an early bar meal. Glass of wine, bottle of water and a Tapas plate that I couldn't finish, all for around A$20.
Ten minutes later a group of 4 checked in and they are from BC Canada. I had arranged to meet Cyndy back at the bar at 1630, where we had a drink & ordered an early bar meal. Glass of wine, bottle of water and a Tapas plate that I couldn't finish, all for around A$20.
I went back to my room to do some hand washing and then decided to sit in the lounge off the foyer, to write up today's journal. When I arrive there. The 4 from BC ( Rosemary & her husband Walter and Zulette and her friend Kathryn) were in the bar, so I joined them for a drink. After they headed for bed I started on the days events. About half an hour later, John Young came in with Roger & Angela from the UK. They were also on the 2010 tour. Caught up with them for a while and then we all headed for our rooms. I finished writing this up.
Day 1: Sun 7th Sept 2014 - PRAGUE - TOUR ARRIVAL DAY
Weather Forecast: 26 and sunny
Welcome to the Czech Republic.
After transferring from Prague airport meet your TD for an introductory talk followed by the Welcome Reception light dinner. Join us for a magic evening including a train ride through all historical quarters and a cruise on the Vltava river through the illuminated city centre.
The above is per the itinerary, apart from the weather forecast.
I had a good sleep last night, only waking once during the night and then going back to sleep straight away.
One thing I meant to mention the other day, was about when I arrived at the luggage belt here at Prague Airport. While waiting for my suitcase to appear, there were a number of grey coloured, hard sided, Samsonite suitcases, that appeared on the belt. Just across from where I was standing, there was a guy who was taking those suitcases off the belt. 13 of them all up, as I counted them. Then, when I was leaving with my driver, I saw who the suitcases belong to. The Emirates airline staff.
Back to today.
I eventually woke properly at 0630, so got up, showered, dressed & went down to breakfast. Only about 8 people there when I arrived, shortly after 0700 but it was filling up fast when I left shortly after 0730.
I forgot to mention yesterday, that according to my pedometer I walked 18,596 steps in the previous 24 hr period. The pedometer is based on home time, which is from 1600 here, so from 4 pm Friday until 4pm yesterday, I walked somewhere between 16 – 18 kilometres. No wonder my feet were not too happy.
I did a short walk to Wenceslas Square, after breakfast and got a couple of crowd free photos. Wenceslas Square isn't in the shape of a square, it is more hippodrome shape. I was back at the hotel by 0900 and went down to the lobby at 9.30 to wait for Cyndy and to people watch.
Cyndy arrived shortly after but she had been having a good sleep so she headed for the breakfast room & I had a coffee.
After that we headed down to the square. We walked up to the top of the square and took some photos.
Lots of people around now. We then strolled back down the square, checking out the M & S supermarket. We turned left into Narodni street and then sat for a while near the UniCredit Bank, then continued along Narodni until we came to the intersection with Na Perstyne and walked down there, as I wanted to take a photo of the sculpture "The Hanging Man".
We found him and took a couple of photos and then headed back to Narodni. We continued along there until we reached the Most Legii Bridge?? We then walked back the way we had come, back to Marks & Spencer, where we bought salads for lunch. I had a prawn salad, which we ate at a bench just across the road from the store. By then it was about 1pm so we sauntered back to the hotel, where we met the tour director, Tim Pendlebury. We sat in the lobby for a while chatting then Val & Poolsuk arrived, so they joined us. The tour group is meeting at 5 PM for the meet and greet prior to having dinner in the restaurant here at the hotel. I headed back to my room to have a shower and change and write some of this journal. I'll continue with this later this evening.
We found him and took a couple of photos and then headed back to Narodni. We continued along there until we reached the Most Legii Bridge?? We then walked back the way we had come, back to Marks & Spencer, where we bought salads for lunch. I had a prawn salad, which we ate at a bench just across the road from the store. By then it was about 1pm so we sauntered back to the hotel, where we met the tour director, Tim Pendlebury. We sat in the lobby for a while chatting then Val & Poolsuk arrived, so they joined us. The tour group is meeting at 5 PM for the meet and greet prior to having dinner in the restaurant here at the hotel. I headed back to my room to have a shower and change and write some of this journal. I'll continue with this later this evening.
We are all gathered at 5pm and had a glass of wine before sitting down and having dinner. The meal consisted of goulash soup, grilled duck with beetroot and potato dumplings and the dessert was an apple strudel. There are a few people with special dietary needs and they were all catered for extremely well. Dinner finished at approximately 7pm and then we departed at 7.30 for our tour through the Old City.
We met George our local guide before doing a coach tour through the Castle area, plus visiting a viewing point up above the city, before doing an hour cruise along the river.
We arrived back at the hotel shortly after 10pm. A good evening.
Day 2: Mon 8th Sept 2014 - PRAGUE - SIGHTSEEING
Forecast 24 and partly cloudy 20% chance of rain.
Wake-up call 7 AM this morning and we departed at 8:30 for our included sight seeing.
I woke up just before 6am and got up then. My calf muscles are still stiff from my Saturday walk up to the castle, so I had a short soak in the bath. I went down to breakfast just after 7am. We heading out on time and were driven up to the Castle. George, our local guide filled us in on the history of some of the buildings and palaces and churches in the castle complex, as we slowly wandered through the grounds. We visited St. Vitus Cathedral and the stained glass windows in there are spectacular.
We ambled down through an old vineyard to the bottom of the castle hill and then walked through the narrow streets to eventually climb a few steps that took us to the St Charles Bridge. George told us about some of the statues along the bridge. There are 30 of them all together. The bridge has 15 arches and there is a statue on either side of the bridge, over the arches. After leaving the bridge we then went and saw a Bohemia glass blowing demonstration and unlike the ones in Venice, there was no sales pressure at all. It was actually quite relaxing. After that we then walked to the Old Town Square and after George filled us in on some more local history, we then had free time. Found somewhere away from the square to each some lunch, walked around for a while and then came back to the hotel, as I was doing the afternoon/early evening optional.
The optional is
Prague- Strahov Monastery- Private Guided Visit to the Historical Library & Monastery Brewery Dinner
The Royal Canonry of Premonstratensians at Strahov is one of the oldest monasteries of the Premonstratensian Order in the world. It has been a working monastery practically ever since it was founded in 1143. Fire, the Hussite Wars, religious wars, and the Communists all failed to shut down this institution. During a very special visit, arranged specifically for the Insight Forum Member’s Tour, we will enjoy an exclusive private tour through the galleries of the historic library. The Strahov library is famous throughout the world as a center of culture and learning, and is a combination of Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque constructions, housing more than 200, 000 volumes dating back to the 12th Century and covering many important epochs of European history. After our tour we will enjoy an excellent dinner with drinks in the Monasteries very own brewery. A great excursion to one of the most important institutions of the Czech Republic
The visit was quite interesting and the meal after, very delicious and I was becoming quite weary. We had an included visit to the Krizik's musical fountains this evening but I decided to give it a miss as we are departing tomorrow and I want a fairly early night tonight and need to sort the luggage etc, so when the bus came back to the hotel to pick up the few people who didn't do the optional, I came back to my room. I think the group would have been back by 9.30pm. I was repacking my suitcase when I heard a huge clap of thunder and spotted lightening through my bedroom window & when I looked out, it was pouring with rain.
Hopefully it might be a bit cooler tomorrow as we travel to Cesky Kumlov.
Day 3: Tue 9th Sept 2014 - PRAGUE - CESKE BUDEJOVICE - CESKY KRUMLOV
Forecast 23 AM partly cloudy PM sun 20% chance of rain.
7am wake up call
7.30am, bags out.
8.30 depart for Cesky Krumlov
I woke up at 4.15am and went straight back to sleep and then woke again at 6am, when my alarm went off. Showered, dressed, packed the last items into the suitcase and put that outside the door, as I went down to breakfast at 7am. I went back to my room just after 7.30am, finished putting the bathroom things in the carry-on, rescued the valuables from the room safe, checked the room and wardrobe and then headed down to the foyer at 8am, to wait for our 8.30am departure.
We got away on time, heading towards Ceske Budejovice, which is our lunch stop. The weather is very misty and we passed some small villages and rolling green countryside. This part of Czech is the capital of Carp breeding. Apparently carp are a delicacy here.
While heading to Ceske Budejovice,
Tim gave us a talk on the itinerary and the optionals and on what days they were being held.
Tim gave us a talk on the itinerary and the optionals and on what days they were being held.We arrived at 10.30am and met our local guide, Milada. She gave us a talk on the history of the town, as we walked around, viewing the Old Town Hall, the town square and their black tower & a former monastery, which is now a church. She also told us some of the old superstition stories.
Milada left us at 11.45 and we didn't have to meet Tim until 1.15pm, so we had time for lunch and a wander,
before heading back to the bus and continuing on to Ceksy Krumlov.
Once again the countryside is green gentle rolling hills, although I did notice some corn filled fields and others where the hay had been harvested and bailed.
We had a short walk from the bus parking area, to our hotel, which we arrived at, at 2pm. I'm in room B103. No aircon here and the weather is still humid. Mind you, we were greeted at reception with a glass of champagne, which was rather nice. After checking in, I went to my room to freshen up, before we all met again at 3pm for our included guided visit of the castle.
There is a film crew filming, so half of the castle is closed to the general public and we had to walk around to the other side, to gain access and it was a fairly steep climb too. The view of the town from up on the top of the castle is spectacular.
The included tour of the castle took about an hour and after ambling back down, we were back at the hotel by 4.30pm.
We all gathered again at 6.30 for our "dine around" dinner. 13 of us had selected the Old Inn restaurant and once again the meal sizes were very generous. I started with a green salad, then pork medallions for the main and a tiramisu for desert. Very delicious but I couldn't finish off the desert. So very filling.
After dinner we all walked back to the hotel. Back there around 9pm and my light was out by 10pm.
Day 4: Wed 10th Sept 2014 - Cesky Krumlov - Trebon Spa Town- Jindrichuv Hradec Castle – Telc Chateau - Brno
This morning we head off to visit the medieval spa town of Trebon (often called "the town of lakes" and "a region of mirrors" where we enjoy a walking tour of this charming little spa town. Its then on for a photostop of Jindrichuv Hradec Castle which dates back to the 13th century and is situated above Vajgar Lake. The castle is the 3rd largest castle in the country.
The pearl of renaissance will be our next stop at the small UNESCO listed town of Telc where the Telč Chateau stands in the centre of the town. Originally the Telč Chateau was a Gothic castle founded in the second half of the 14th century. It comprised a palace and a chapel, built around the present Small Courtyard. It was fortified with enclosure walls and a moat. In the second half of the 16th century the owner Zachariáš of Hradec resided there and he rebuilt and enlarged the castle into a Renaissance chateau. The Renaissance halls with wooden waffle floors from the 16th century can be seen in interiors of the chateau as well as a valuable collections of weapons from the 17th century.
First we have a guided visit to the Chateau of Telc followed by a short walk along the town square before reboarding our coach to travel on to Brno for our overnight stay.
Hotel: BRNO (Barcelo Brno Palace)
Meals: Buffet Breakfast, Dinner
FORECAST: 22 & partly cloudy
7am - Wake up calls
7.30 - Bags out
Breakfast is served from 7am
8.45am - Departure
So far, we have been lucky with the weather. It has been warm and humid but no rain while we have been out and about.
My light was out by 10 last night and I slept fairly well until 5 this morning, when I just couldn't get back to sleep, so just got up. I was packed up and ready by 6am, so I finished yesterday's journal and e-mailed it.
I went down to reception just before 7am, to ask if I had the right postage on a postcard, which I did, and I left it with them to mail. The breakfast room opened just as I was about to go back to my room, so I had some breakfast instead. The spread isn't as extensive as the Prague hotel but certainly okay. The only thing they didn't have was a toaster, so no toast for me.
After breakfast, I thought I'd head back to the castle grounds and see if I could see any of the 3 brown bears that live in the dry moat. I couldn't even get past the red gate, as the film crew were filming just outside the castle's bridge, which goes over the moat, so instead, I headed towards the town square and just took a few photos from the wooden bridge, which is over the Vitava River.
We arrived at Trebon at 10am.
Our local guide, Suzanne, met us at the bus and then walked us through the local park, explaining some of the history of the town. There are 2 Spa's in Trebon. It has a smallish town square and we visited a residence, who's name I forget. Trebon was our lunch stop, before heading off again at 1255 Next stop was a photo stop at 1.45pm at Jindrichuv Hradec Castle. From there we continued on to Telc.
The countryside that we passed through today was still farming country, of corn and hay. That is all that I could see anyway. An overcast day today and it threatened rain but it didn't happen.
I thing I might have mentioned before that this area of Southern Bohemia is the Carp breeding capital. They have fish ponds, although in my book, they aren't ponds, they are massive lakes.
We arrived in Telc around 3pm and had time for a look around the town square, which is rather large and not square,
before our guided visit of the Telc Chateau at 3.30. We are not having very much luck with our UNESCO visits, as only half of the chateau is open to the public because a film is being shot in the Chateau. Some of the ceilings that we saw in a couple of the rooms are magnificent and apparently are still the original.
We departed Telc at 4.30pm and left the country roads and hit the highway shortly before 5. We were making good time until 5.45, where the 2 laned highway became 1 lane for some roadworks. I think we managed to travel a few kilometres in about 20 minutes. We finally arrived at the hotel around 6.30pm. Check-in was very quick and this is a lovely 4 star hotel. My room is very spacious.
I went back downstairs before our 8pm dinner, to pay Tim for the optional extras, then back to my room. My bag didn't arrive in time for me to shower & change for dinner but did arrive in time for me to grab out a few t-shirts, that need to be laundered and drop them in at reception before going to dinner. A lovely fresh green salad, steak, chips & roasted vegetables and yummy cheese cake.
Once back in my room I did the hand washing, sorted out what to wear for tomorrow and once I finish writing this, I'll email it. We have an early start tomorrow, departing at 7.45am, so I won't have time in the morning to get onto the internet. I think there is rain forecast for tomorrow.
Day 5: Thu 11th Sept 2014 – Day trip to Bratislava via Mikulov & Valtice Lenice
Travel through picturesque wine growing areas of South Moravia towards Slovakia via beautifully restored Mikulov and the unique complex of estates and castles of Valtice-Lednice. Upon arrival in Bratislava in the afternoon enjoy the guided tour of the city including views over the Danube from the Castle and the walk through the Old Town.
Hotel: BRNO (Barcelo Brno Palace)
Meals:Buffet Breakfast
OPTIONALS
Brno- Moravian Evening in Spilberk Castle
Dominating the Old Town of Brno since the 13th Century, Spilberk Castle has served as citadel, royal residence, and for 200 years the most formidable prison in the Austrian Empire. Tonight in this historic location we enjoy an evening of traditional music & song, a banquet of excellent Moravian fare including an assortment of meats and vegetables grilled on swords, and the wines for which the region is famous. A great night out in the symbol of Brno.
Brno- Historical Walking Tour & Capuchin Crypts Visit
Join our local historical expert and discover the treasures & legends of old Brno. During our walking tour we will see such highlights as St. Peter and Paul Cathedral, the Cabbage Market (Zelný Trh) with it’s baroque fountain ‘Parnas’ and Holy Trinity Column, the Old Town Hall, and the Freedom Square with it’s Plague column. During our tour we will also visit the Capuchin Crypt, where, amongst others, baron Franz von der Trenck (a commander of the Pandur and Špilberk prisoner), is entombed in a mummified state. A great insight into the Moravian capital.
Weather Forecast : Bratislava 17 and heavy rain.
6.30am - Wake up call.
7.00am - Breakfast.
7.45am - Depart for the days excursion.
7pm - Depart for optional dinner at Spilberk Castle.
Well the forecast for today isn't all that crash hot but I'm sure I will enjoy the day anyway. I had set my alarm for 6.00am and was showered and dressed by the time the wake up call came in. Most of my hand washing had dried overnight but I had to give my socks a blast with the hair dryer.
The breakfast spread in this hotel is very nice and they have a toaster, although the bread that I toasted was extremely crumbly. I'll have to try another type tomorrow.
We got away for our trip to Bratislava, at 7.50am. It's wasn't raining but it was showering. Tim put on a video about Napolean Bonaparte and the Battle of Auterlitz, as we were passing through the area where the battle took place. The countryside has more cornfields and also sunflowers. We reached the Slovakian border at 8.42am and had a short loo break.
The Slovakian side of the border is more forested and there are plenty of road works going on. It is now raining.
First up we visited the Castle,
where we had a misty view of the Danube below and part of the city,
then we continued down to the old town, where we had a guided walking tour. It's a very compact Old Town Square and thankfully the rain was just drizzling a bit, so didn't impact too much on the sight seeing. There is a lovely Baroque style presidential palace in white and black.
where we had a misty view of the Danube below and part of the city,
The included tour finished about 1115 and we had until 1240 to have lunch and go for a wander. I really like their street sculptures.
We were on the road again by 1250 and the rain was now coming down heavily.
We travelled through the wine growing area of Southern Moravia to the Valtice-Ledrice area of estates and castles, where we arrived around 2pm and after checking out the Chateau and the gardens, departed there around 2.30pm.
Our next stop was Mikulov, where we spent about half an hour in the castle or chateau grounds, before stopping at a wine bar to taste the local wines. This area is the wine region of the Czech Republic, hence the wine tasting. We departed there at 4.15 and finally arrived back at the hotel around 5.30. Those of us doing the optional dinner at Spilberk Castle departed at 7pm.
Unfortunately it was still a misty rain, so taking photos of the city below, was not going to happen. I am trying to remember what we had for dinner and am thankful that I took some photos of the food. The first starter was duck with green salad. Then there was a vegetable soup with egg, which was very delicious.
The main was chicken and pork with roast vegetables and dumplings. Can't say that I was impressed with that and then for desert a very thin slice of Apple tart with poached pears.
Now that was nice. I don't recall what time we were back at the hotel but my light was out by about 11.30. We have a lateish start tomorrow.
Day 6: Fri 12th Sept 2014 - Brno - Moravian Karst - Olomouc
Driving past Brno we reach the Moravian Karst which encompasses roughly 1100 caverns and gorges and covers an area of roughly 92 km2. We enjoy a guided tour of one of the four cave systems open to the public and finish with a boat ride.
Moving on we visit Olomouc which is located on the Morava River and is the oldest and the largest historical town protected monument reserve in the Czech Republic after Prague. It is full of precious monuments and landmarks. The Upper Square is dominated by the Holy Trinity Column and by the Renaissance Town Hall with its Astronomical Clock and tower.
The historical centre is adorned with valuable ecclesiastical buildings, a number of Baroque fountains and twisting lanes and is enveloped by the remains of fortifications built by the Empress Maria Theresa, and exquisite parks.
While exploring this old city you can see the Holy Trinity Column, the Town Hall with astronomical clock, the Arion’s Fountain, Water Barracks, Theresian Gate, Hauenschild Palace, St. Michael’s Church, Chapel of St. Jan Sarkander, the former Jesuit College, the Church of St. Mary of the Snows, the Archbishop’s Palace, St. Wenceslas’ Cathedral and St. Maurice Church with Engler’s organ.
Hotel: Olomouc (NH Congress Hotel)
Meals: Buffet Breakfast, Dinner
OPTIONAL
Olomouc- Evening Guided Illuminations Tour- €23.00
After dinner tonight join our local guide for a tour of the highlights of Olomouc. First by coach we will go to Wenceslas Square to see the Olomouc castle & Cathedral. This will be followed by a walking tour through the lower and upper squares where we will see the beautiful baroque fountains for which Olomouc is famous, the Town Hall with it’s unique Astronomical clock re-designed during the Communist period, and the UNESCO inscribed Holy Trinity Column. A great introduction to this one-time royal center & Moravian Capital.
Weather Forecast: 22 and rain
7am - Breakfast served
7.30 - wake up call.
8.00 - bags out.
9.00 - depart for optional walking tour.
12.15 - depart to Moravian Karst.
I misread the wake up time when I set my alarm last night and it went off at 6am. I usually set my alarm an hour ahead of the wake up call. I had had a good nights sleep so got up anyway. I was expecting the wake up call at 7am and when it didn't happen I decided to go downstairs to pay my laundry bill and have breakfast. I had 3 tops washed and ironed yesterday and they were in my wardrobe when we returned to the hotel yesterday, along with someone else's pink & white striped blouse, which I took back down to reception.
I was back in my room just after 7.30 and my wake up call came in shortly after. I put the main bag out at 8am and then at 8.30, I took my carry-on luggage down to the bus at 8.30 and then waited for the start of our optional walking tour, which started at 9.00 am and lasted for 2 hours. We visited St. Peter & Paul Cathedral and the stations of the cross are a very modern version. Not the traditional at all. Next we viewed the Church of St. Michael and then the New Town Hall, which is pretty old anyway. Then a look at St. James's church and then the Capuchin Crypts. I won't bother with anything that takes in crypts again.
We had an hour and a quarter to have lunch, before we finally departed Brno at 1215.
We got away on time and arrived at the Moravian Karst around 1pm. From the parking area, you have to take a small 'train' up to the entrance of the caves, which takes about 5-10 minutes. We only had to wait a short time for our local guide. Because of the rain over the past day, the rivers and creeks are running high, so consequently, the boat ride part of our tour has been cancelled, which Tim thought would happen. The guide set off at a brisk pace. Nature carves out some wonderful sights and these caves were no exception. Stalactites and stalagmites. We had to back track a bit at the end of the tour. The tour finished shortly before 3pm and we were back on the bus, onboard and on our way again by 3.10pm.
We were still on the country road when we hit a traffic jam at 3.45 and it seemed to take ages to travel a very short distance through a town, who's name I didn't see. We got onto the highway at 4.15 and made very good time until 4.30, when the traffic slowed again. It was still raining and the coach temp gauge was saying 17c outside. We were due to arrive at our hotel around 5pm but because of the roadworks and traffic, we didn't get in until shortly before 6pm. Tim had booked the included dinner for 6.30, so it was just a matter of checking in, going to my room, dropping the hand luggage and heading back downstairs for dinner. Potato soup, chicken breast with potatoes and asparagus and a blueberry cheese cake with a fresh blueberry on a marshmallow.
The optional "illuminations" tour started at 7.50pm and Roman was our local guide. I should really have given this a miss. For some reason unknown to me, my right heel had started to hurt, when walking, earlier this afternoon. The tour was only about 4 kl but over cobblestones and because of the heel, walking was very painful. I'll see what it's like in the morning. Anyway, the tour was a little disappointing as the statues and ponds and monuments weren't all that well lit.
We were back at the hotel around 10pm and after soaking in the bath for a while, my light was out around 11pm.
We were back at the hotel around 10pm and after soaking in the bath for a while, my light was out around 11pm.
Day 7: Sat 13 Sep 2014 - Olomouc - Klodzko – Wroclaw - Poland
This morning we cross the border into Poland and visit the town of Klodzko which, because of its historical monuments, is sometimes referred to as "Little Prague". Klodzko has a unique 9th century fortress on a high rock overlooking the city, a Gothic bridge (often called a "Charles Bridge in miniature" due to its resemblance to one of the most notable historical monument of Prague) and City tunnels constructed under the city since 13th century. Enjoy a nice stroll around before selecting one of the local spots for lunch.
Now it’s on to the banks of the river Oder and the city of Wrocław, known in Polish as ‘Miasto Spotkań’, the ‘meeting place’. During its long history Wrocław has belonged to Poland, Bohemia, Austria, Prussia and Germany. This afternoon join us for a guided city walk of Wroclaw where we seethe rightly coloured facades of the noble mansions and the flower markets on the Plac Soiny, the Baroque splendour of the 'Rynek', and be introduced to Wroclaw's cheeky Gnomes.
Tonight, perhaps dine at one of Europe’s oldest restaurants?
Hotel: Wroclaw (Sofitel)
Meals: Buffet Breakfast.
Weather Forecast: Wroclaw 24 partly cloudy 20% chance of rain
7am - wake up call and breakfast is served.
7.30 - bags outside
8.30 - departure to Klodzko and Wroclaw
I had set my alarm for 6am but woke about 15 minutes before it went off. Had a shower and sorted out the main luggage and locked that up, ready to put outside.
I dropped a postcard into reception for them to post and then went into breakfast. There is a very extensive range of food in this hotel. Lots of fresh fruit, peeled and unpeeled, although the toaster never really browned the bread. After breakfast, back to my room to pack the carry-on, finish writing yesterday's journal and email that and then check-out. We were all on the bus and departed the hotel about 8.25am.
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| Sunrise around 6.30am |
The countryside is still gentle rolling farming land. Corn or maize, potato and beets seem to be the crops in this area. The sky is cloudy but looks to be clearing, as I can see clear blue sky in some places. 9am and we have just passed through a reasonable sized town. I just noticed that we are off the highway. Not sure when that happened. It is now 9.30am and we are on a very windy road, making our way up a hill or mountain. Beautiful green valleys with fir trees in the distance. Low cloud hanging in the distance too. Time to put the iPad away and get the camera out.
We passed through the border into Poland at 9.50am.
The low cloud is now fog. I had a bit of shut eye. I didn't make a note of the time that we arrived in Klodzko.
Tim walked us to the old part of town and pointed out a few things and we then had 1.5 + hrs to wander and have some lunch, before all meeting again at 1pm and continuing on our way. I had a caprese salad and a beer for lunch. Also found a small market and bought some nibbles.
The low cloud is now fog. I had a bit of shut eye. I didn't make a note of the time that we arrived in Klodzko.
Tim walked us to the old part of town and pointed out a few things and we then had 1.5 + hrs to wander and have some lunch, before all meeting again at 1pm and continuing on our way. I had a caprese salad and a beer for lunch. Also found a small market and bought some nibbles.
We were on the road again by 1.15. Tim played a music DVD and I think a few of us had a snooze. Once again, green rolling hills with lots of maize filled fields and I think beets. The trip took a couple of hours and we were checked into the hotel in Wroclaw, around 3pm.
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| One of the many Wroclaw Gnomes |
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| And another one or three |
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| I think they are cute |
The local guide for the included walk earlier this evening was very good and the walk very interesting. Lots of families and children out and about and even though it has been threatening rain, it didn't happen. After the tour finished, a few of us went back to one of the restaurants in the main square "Pod Fredra Restaurant"' for dinner. I had a pork medallion with potato dumplings and a beer. Very nice. Was back at the hotel just on 8pm and ran a bath to soak the legs. It's now just after 9pm and once I send this off, I'll be having an early night.
Tomorrow is going to be a little disrupted, traffic wise, as the Wroclaw Marathon is being run. The forecast is for 26c and cloudy.
Day 8: Sun 14th Sept 2014 – Wroclaw - Poznan
This morning starts with our guided city walk of Wroclaw where we see the brightly coloured facades of the noble mansions and the flower markets on the Plac Solny, the Baroque splendour of the ‘Rynek’, and be introduced to Wrocław’s cheeky Gnomes.
We then journey to the region of ‘Wielkopolska’, considered the birthplace of Poland in the 10th century and our overnight stop in Poznań, sometimes claimed to be the first capital of the kingdom of Poland. With it's churches and cobbles and colourful burgher houses, the old town is a collage of architectural styles, stuffed with delicate looking churches and esoteric museums.
After exploring the old market square we have free time to wander this enchanting town
A morning at leisure to enjoy Wroclaw before we journey to the region of 'Wielkopolska', considered the birthplace of Poland in the 10th century. Our overnight stop is Poznan, sometimes claimed to be the first capital of the kingdom of Poland. With its churches and cobbles and colourful burgher houses, the old town is a collage of architectural styles, stuffed with delicate looking churches and esoteric museums.
Hotel: Poznan (City Park and Residence)
Meals: Buffet Breakfast, Dinner
Weather Forecast: 26 and partly cloudy.
Breakfast served from 6.30am
7am - Wake up call
7.30am - Bags out.
8.45 am - Depart for Tramway tour & Panorama Rackawice optional.
2pm - Depart for Poznan.
I was in bed by 10.30 last night and slept fairly well until about 5 and then slept again until the alarm went off at 5.45am, when I got up.
Because of the marathon today, the bus can't get to the hotel early for us to put our carry-on luggage on, so we will have to leave it in the hotels luggage room, so I have had to do some juggling with my luggage. I have the wheeled carry-on that usually goes under the bus, plus a little back pack & handbag. I've had to empty the handbag and pack that in the main luggage & the junk from the hand bag has been put in the wheeled carry-on. My heels/ankles are still painful, so I have taken a couple of Nurofen.
I went down to breakfast just after 7am. Another very good spread.
Those of us doing the optional Historic Tramway tour & visit to the Panorama Raclawice, departed the hotel at 8.45am, to walk to the tram departure point. There must have been a bit of violence on the street last night, as there was a lot of broken glass lying on some of the footpaths. After walking through the old town square
and finding some more of the Wroclaw gnomes,
we eventually arrived at the tram at 9.15am. Just as we were departing, a young lad hopped on board and sat down, listing to his music through earphones. We think he thought the tram was a regular service. Anyway, he eventually went to sleep and when we hopped off at the Centennial Hall, the driver woke him and he departed.
and finding some more of the Wroclaw gnomes,
we eventually arrived at the tram at 9.15am. Just as we were departing, a young lad hopped on board and sat down, listing to his music through earphones. We think he thought the tram was a regular service. Anyway, he eventually went to sleep and when we hopped off at the Centennial Hall, the driver woke him and he departed.
The tram tour was very interesting, especially with the local guide pointing out things. He was very good. Lots of beautiful old buildings and a number of universities. I forget the actual number. Some faculties are obviously richer than others, After viewing the fountain display at Centennial Hall we then walked through the Japanese Gardens there.
After viewing the panorama, we were walking back to the main square, a walk of about 15-20 minutes. Tim had hired a golf cart to take Zulette & John back, as they have distance walking problems and he asked me if I wanted to join them. I did and am glad to have done so. The marathon runners were running through part of the square, so I watched them, while waiting for the group to arrive.
When they did, I caught up with Cyndy and we had lunch at a Mexican restaurant. After lunch we returned to the hotel, collected our hand luggage, boarded the bus and were on our way to Poznan by 2pm.
We were out of Wroclaw by 2.15pm and Tim put on a DVD about the Polish resistance during the 2nd world war, which ran for about 45 minutes. The countryside is very flat here. Still farming land and the crops are rye, barley & wheat plus corn. We passed some forests and started to see some stork nests. Apparently 40% of all storks nest in Poland. We had a comfort stop at 3.45 and were on our way again at 4.15, arriving at our hotel shortly after 5pm. My room is very spacious.
Dinner was at the hotel, although not in the building that our rooms are in. It's a complex of various buildings with a mixture of entertainment and retail. Dinner was a salad, main either pork or a noodle dish and tiramisu for dessert but it wasn't like any tiramisu that I have had before. Back in my room by 9pm.
Day 9: Mon 15th Sept 2014 - POZNAN - TORUN
This morning spend time exploring the old market square of Poznan. After lunch we continue on to the lower Vistula valley and the historic town of Toruń, birthplace of Renaissance astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus. Toruń was founded by the Teutonic Knights in 1233 but today is distinguished as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Picturesquely located on the both banks of the Vistula River, at a site of intersection of ancient trade routes, the streets of Toruń Old Town have not been changed for centuries. Join your local guide to discover this outstanding example of medieval architecture.
Hotel: Torun (Bulwar)
Meals: Buffet Breakfast, Dinner
Weather Forecast: 24 and sunny
6.30am breakfast is served from.
7.00 - Wake up call
7.30 - Bags out
8.30 - Depart for optional
9.45 - Depart for old town
12.30 - Depart for Torun.
I switched my light off at 10.30 last night and woke with the alarm at 5.45 this morning. Re my painful heels, google "Plantar Fasciitis". That describes it very well and I'm pretty sure that is what I have. I just have to work out a way of walking that eases the pain, as the Nurofen that I have taken, doesn't seem to be making any difference.
I went to breakfast shortly before 7 and again, a great spread of food on offer. I just had scrambled eggs, yoghurt, juice and a slice of freshly baked sweet brown bread. The only thing I could complain about is that there was no hot water in my room. Tepid at the best and as I had to wash my hair this morning, I really noticed it. I did mention it to the staff, when I checked out.
I made the mistake of doing the walking tour this morning. I should have given it a miss. My feet were hurting so much that I really couldn't concentrate of what the guide was saying, plus the fact that she took off at a great rate of knots and didn't bother to check that everyone was keeping up, which I wasn't unless she stopped to point something out. Anyway, once we hit the old town square, I switched the listening device off and another lady, Zulette and I found a cafe opposite the town hall and I had an iced coffee and a cake. This was at about 1045 and apparently at midday, 2 robotic goats appear from below the town hall clock and ram their heads together and then disappear back behind their door. Shortly after we ordered, Cyndy and Zulette's friend Kathryn came back from the walking tour, so they joined us and then another 7 or 8 people came in and ordered a bite to eat. We all had ring side seats for the midday display and there was rather a large crowd that had gathered for the viewing. Midday arrived and a bugler blew his horn, the goats appeared, butted their heads together 12 times, retreated and the bugler blew his horn again and that was that. After such anticipation, it was a bit of a let down but fun. Tim arrived shortly after that and as we were all gathered, we set off for the coach and our journey to Turin, which should take about 2.5hrs.
We were out of Poznan by 12.25 and Tim was telling us about some of the celebrations that the Poles have. He is married to a Polish girl and lives in a small village about an hours drive from Krackow. His story about how long a Polish wedding goes for, or how long his wedding went for, was very funny. He then put on some music of local Christmas Carols and I'm pretty sure that I had some shut-eye.
We passed through a number of villages and there is harvesting going on in some of the fields, mainly onions and potatoes from what I could see from the window. I think the onions had been picked some time before, as it looked like they were gathering dry onions, i.e. No stalks attached. At 2.45 I spotted a guy in his car, at the side of the road, who appeared to be selling antlers?? Then there were some people selling mushrooms. Tim said that they go into the forest in the morning and pick the mushrooms, then sell them from the roadside. We turned off the main road and took a back road into Turin, apparently to avoid a low bridge. We arrived at the hotel by 3pm. Wifi only in the foyer of this one.
Check in was smooth and easy and I did not do the included walking tour, that departed the hotel at 4pm. As the only other thing on tonight is dinner here in the hotel, I'll send this off the next time I go downstairs. I had a shower before changing for dinner and the shower here is wonderful.
Its 10pm and I'm back in my room after dinner. I didn't take the iPad downstairs when I went for dinner, so will either send this off tomorrow morning, before we leave or in Gdansk, tomorrow night.
Day 10: Tue 16th Sept 2014 - TORUN – GDANSK
Follow the Vistula northward to the Baltic Sea and the fashionable seaside resort of Sopot, former playground for Europe’s ruling classes and the perfect spot for lunch.
Experience the unique character of Art Nouveau townhouses and villas, surrounded by trees, historic parks and beautifully cultivated gardens. See the higgledy-piggledy ‘Crooked House’ before enjoying time at leisure to stroll the elegant beachside promenades or enjoy the sea air on Europe’s longest wooden pier stretching 511.5m into the sea from the middle of Sopot beach.
Later this afternoon we take a very short drive to the port city of Gdansk where we stay for 2 nights and enjoy dinner in a local restaurant.
Hotel: Gdansk (Radisson Blu)
Meals: Buffet Breakfast, Dinner
Weather Forecast: 20 - 22c and sunny
Breakfast from 6.30am
7.00 - Wake up call
7.30 - Bags out
8.30 - Depart for the Baltic Coast
My light was out by 10.30pm last night but I only slept for 2 hours before waking up and rolling over. The next time I woke it was about 5.30am and there was no power in the room. I phoned reception and they said that the city had a power problem and that the authorities were hoping for it to be fixed by 6 am. The power came back on in my room at 6.25am. Fortunately there was plenty of daylight coming in and I also have a great little torch. I went down to breakfast at 6.45 and there was a good spread at this hotel too. I had scrambled eggs on toast with tomato and then some fresh fruit and orange juice. Back to my room to put the luggage out and I then went down to the foyer to email yesterday's journal. I also brought my carry -on luggage downstairs too, as I don't want to have to walk any further than I really have to.
We were on our way by 8.25am. Tim gave us a talk about the towns we will be visiting today and then put a video on about Gdansk at around 9am, that went through until 10.15am. I had trouble keeping my eyes open this morning. We stopped at a shopping centre around 10.30 ish for a 15-20 minute comfort break, then it was onto Sopot for a walk and lunch. Sopot
is a spa town on the Baltic and boast the longest wooden pier in Europe. It's over 500 metres long. I walked into the pier area with everyone else but didn't walk the pier. I had lunch at a restaurant next to the entrance to the pier. Everyone was meeting at the entrance at 1 pm but I asked Cyndy to tell Tim that I was already walking back to where the bus was picking us up from, as I knew that I would not be able to keep up with them. I was right. I started walking at 1 pm and arrived at the pick up point at 1.42, the group started walking at 1.30 and arrived at 1.45. The restaurant I had lunch at is called the Rybna Ferajna and I had a fish kebab. Very light and delicious.
We arrived at our hotel
around 2.45pm and the included waking tour departed at 5 past 3, without me. Once my luggage arrived I put my jeans in for laundry, filled the ice bucket with ice and tried icing my feet. I don't know if it helped or not. I walked about 50 metres to the old town square but didn't go any further. Our included dinner was at a boutique brewery and the coach departed for that at 6.45pm. I had what was called a potato soup but it had mushrooms in it, a light pasta dish
and apple cake & ice cream but the ice cream was whipped cream. I thing we all ordered it because we though it would be ice cream. Oh well!!
We were back at the hotel by 9pm and my light was out by 10.30pm.
Day 11: Wed 17th Sept 2014 – GDANSK
This morning you will experience an extensive visit to the Westerplatte, scene of the first fighting between Polish and German troops in 1939 before stopping at the Gdansk Shipyards where Lech Wałęsa formed the anti-Soviet ‘Solidarnosc’ in 1980. This Solidarity movement was monumental in the fall of Communism in Poland and Eastern Europe.
The afternoon is your to explore, relax or perhaps shop for amber jewellery or ornaments from the many amber outlets in the city.
Hotel: Gdansk (Radisson Blu)
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Forecast: 21 and partly cloudy
6.30am - Breakfast is served
7.30am - Wake up call
9.00am - Depart for visit to Westerplatte
I slept badly last night. For the first time, my heels were aching during the night. I was up at 5.15 just because I need that hour & a bit to get ready, because it is so painful to walk. A friend who has suffered from the same problem a couple of years ago, suggested that before standing for the day, I roll from my instep to the back of my heels, over a bottle, to try and help. I did so this morning but I'm not sure that it helped but I will continue to do so each morning.
I went down to breakfast just after 6.30 and only had some cereal, juice and coffee this time. Back to my room to get ready for the mornings adventures.
We got away at 9am and headed to the Solidarity Square and memorial. First up we walked to the section of the Berlin wall that has been erected as a memorial
and then walked the short distance to the square.
The docks aren't as extensive as they used to be and a museum has been built on the square.
After that visit we went back to the bus and then headed out to Westerplatte. I got off the bus to look at some of the pictorials there but then back on the bus with Zulette and John, while the others went for their long walk with Agnes, our local guide. The walk lasted from 10.20 to 11.30am. We then drove back to the hotel and were back there by midday. After taking a short break at the hotel, I then went for a walk through the old town and found a chemist, where I purchases some Voltaren Express Forte pain killers and a Diclac Lipogrl cream, to rub onto the back of my heels.
and then walked the short distance to the square.
After that visit we went back to the bus and then headed out to Westerplatte. I got off the bus to look at some of the pictorials there but then back on the bus with Zulette and John, while the others went for their long walk with Agnes, our local guide. The walk lasted from 10.20 to 11.30am. We then drove back to the hotel and were back there by midday. After taking a short break at the hotel, I then went for a walk through the old town and found a chemist, where I purchases some Voltaren Express Forte pain killers and a Diclac Lipogrl cream, to rub onto the back of my heels.
I was doing the optional, which was a visit to a Kashubian education centre and then a dinner at a restaurant about 15 minute drive from the centre, with a Kashubian Folk Band. We departed the hotel at 3.30pm and it took just over an hour to get to the cultural centre.
A local guide took us slowly through a couple of the buildings, explaining things along the way. They had imported a number of cabins into the centre, one from Siberia, which had been built by Poles in the 1800’s, when some Poles had been exiled to Siberia plus a couple of cabins from Canada. I missed the connection with them. I think Polish people who migrated to Canada back in the 1800's. Some of the group then went for a walk through a tunnel, which depicted what it was like in the 2nd world war, with the sound effects of bombs dropping etc. after that, we then visited an upside down house and I went for a walk through it. An extremely off putting experience. It almost made me feel dizzy and that I was losing my balance. Very eerie/strange.
We departed from there at 6.30 pm and drove a short way to the restaurant for our Kashubian dinner. The long table was already laden with plates of cold cuts, plus some bowls of shredded carrots and coleslaw and another salad, that I didn't have, so don't know what that was. Then the Pierogi (don't think I have spelt that properly) came out and that was delicious. Then plates of pieces of chicken and plates of a beef dish. I had the chicken but not the beef and I heard later from one person that the beef they had was terrible. I drank wine and not beer, as I was convinced that it was the beer that was the reason I have had to get up every night and go to the bathroom.
We finally departed from the restaurant just on 9pm and we were back at the hotel around 9.40pm. I went straight to my room, organised my luggage for tomorrow, as we have an early start and light out by 10.30.
Day 12: Thu 18th Sept 2014 - GDANSK - MALBORK CASTLE AND WARSAW
Leaving Gdansk our first stop is to visit the ‘Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork’. The castle is situated on the banks of the Nogat river and was founded in 1274 by the Teutonic Knights. It is a stunning example of a medieval fortress, and the largest brick Gothic castle in the world. Since 1997 both the castle and its museum have been UNESCO World Heritage sites.
After visiting the castle we head to Elblag and the western edge of the Masurian Lake District to the capital Warsaw.
This evening perhaps join us for a concert of Poland’s best-loved composer, Frederick Chopin?
Hotel: Warsaw (Radisson Blu)
Meals: Buffet Breakfast.
Forecast: 23 and sunny
6.30am: Wake up call
6.30am: Breakfast is served
7.00am: Bags out
8.00am: Depart for Warsaw.
I had another aching heel night but at least I didn't have to visit the bathroom, so my theory about the beer was correct. No more beer with dinner. :)
I woke up when the alarm went off at 5.15am and did my bottle foot exercises, toe stretches, calf stretches, was showered and dressed by 6.15, so had time for a cup of coffee, a chocolate gingerbread man and 1 pain killer, before heading down to breakfast and paying for my laundry, that I had had done.
Cyndy and I have one of the front seats today. The bus got away on time, as we headed for Malbork Castle first up. I am having a walking free day today. I'm hoping that giving the feet a rest, might help a bit. We shall see.
The countryside along the way today is very fertile and the main crops are a variety of wheats, corn and they also grow canola and sugar beet. The land is very flat and instead of square fields, they are rectangles. The fields are surrounded by canals. The police are out and about with their radar guns, checking up on speeding motorists. This area of Northern Poland used to be Prussia at one time.
We arrived at the castle around 9am and from what I could see, it is immense.
I stayed on the bus while it was driven to the car park, which is where the group will eventually come back to, from the castle walk. This has given me the opportunity to catch up on the journal, as I didn't write anything up yesterday and I can catch up with today too and do some reading, sitting in the sunshine.
I stayed on the bus while it was driven to the car park, which is where the group will eventually come back to, from the castle walk. This has given me the opportunity to catch up on the journal, as I didn't write anything up yesterday and I can catch up with today too and do some reading, sitting in the sunshine.
I was chatting to our relief driver and he was saying that some people are worried about the Russian situation, as they feel that tourists might not visit Poland because of what is happening to their next door neighbour, Ukraine.
The group returned from their walk through the castle, shortly after 11am and we were on our way again. We skirted the town of Elblag around 1145 and Tim was telling us about the Elblag Canal.
Built in the 19th century, the Elblag to Ostroda Canal is a unique monument to the art of hydro-engineering and a very important tourist attraction, as featured in Michael Palin's programme, "New Europe".
From a technical point of view, it is one of the most interesting navigational routes in Europe. The canal deals with the 99.5m difference in water levels by means of a system of slipways, locks, dams and safety gates. Five slipways carry boats across dry land on rail-mounted trolleys.
There is an optional tonight for a Chopin music concert but I am not going. I went down to the bar at 7 and ordered a BLT and a glass of wine. Stephanie from Canada joined me shortly after and we had a snack together before heading back to our rooms around 8.30.
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| The view from my hotel room |
I have just done some hand washing and will be going to bed once I email this. I have decided to pull out of the optional to Wilanow Palace tomorrow morning and rest the feet a bit more and will join the late risers with a 10.15 departure from the hotel for our included site seeing. Night all.
Day 13: Fri 19th Sept 2014 - WARSAW CITY TOUR AND OLD TOWN WALK
During this morning’s sightseeing tour, see the ‘wedding cake’ Palace of Culture and admire the Chopin Monument in Łazienki Park. A visit to the Ghetto Memorial and the Historical Museum is followed by a walk through Warsaw’s old town, entirely rebuilt since WWII.
This afternoon is at leisure
Hotel: Warsaw (Radisson Blu)
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Weather Forecast: 22 and partly cloudy
6.30am - Breakfast is served
7.00am - Wake up call
8.30am - Depart for optional to Wilanow Palace
10.15am - Depart for Warsaw sightseeing & group photo
4.00pm - Depart for visit to Palace of Culture & Science & dinner party.
I had a fairly good nights sleep last night. No foot pain anyway. I woke with the alarm at 6am. Showered and dressed and then went down to breakfast around 7.30am. I checked at the desk and there is a big shopping mall a few blocks away that has a Super Pharm, so I'm taking a taxi there, to see if I can get orthotic type inserts for my shoes. First mistake I made was not asking the Tim, approx. taxi cost for the short trip. 2nd mistake was not asking the driver how much approx it would cost, before I got in the taxi. I got ripped off. That won't happen again. The taxi I caught to come back to the hotel, quoted approx 20 zloty and then when we arrived back at the hotel and I asked for a receipt, he only charged me 10 zloty.
Those who were doing the morning optional, departed at 8.30. I took a taxi to the mall and found the pharmacy and bought some Scholl shoe support inserts. I then took another taxi back to the hotel and then with others who weren't on the optional, departed on the tour bus at 10.15am, to meet up with the others who were doing the optional and then we all did the included city tour on the bus, plus have our group photo taken and then the bus dropped off those who were walking through the Old Town, before delivering about 6 of us back to the hotel. I have lunch with John & Zulette. We also met one of the other Insight TD's who is here with another group. Her name is Kari Anne Rossum and she lives in London. Back to my room for a short rest, before joining the afternoon/evening optional, that departs at 4pm.
First up a visit to the Palace of Culture & Science
We then took the elevator to the 30th floor, where you can walk around outside and have a great view of Warsaw, in all four directions.
They only have the panorama for one of the sides though, so unless you know Warsaw very well, you don't know what you are looking at. Down the elevator again and onto the bus for a drive to the old town
and a walk to a local restaurant for dinner. It was Friday night, the place was packed, there were 24 of us in our group and one young waitress to take care of us plus be our drink waiter too and help out another waitress at times. I felt sorry for the girl. All in all a very disappointing experience. The food was okay but on reflection, I should have read the description more closely and asked Tim more questions about it and to top it off, for me, it was a hike back to the bus on red hot coals, i.e, my feet. :)
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| View from my room at night of the Palace of Culture & Science |
and a walk through some of the rooms.
Once back at the hotel, I went straight to bed. Early start tomorrow.
Day 14: Sat 20th Sept 2014 - WARSAW - KAZIMIERZ DOLNY - LUBLIN
Heading east our first stop for today is Kazimierz Dolny which is situated on the eastern bank of the river Vistula. It is a one of the most beautifully situated little towns in Poland and a considerable tourist attraction. Kazimierz Dolny is an art center where many painters retreat to this small town to paint and sell their work. Galleries can be found in almost every street, offering for sale sculptures, stained-glass, and fine-art paintings. In the market, folk art is for sale at unbeatable prices.
We then head on to Lublin where we will spend 2 nights. Lublin is the largest Polish city on the eastern side of the Vistula River. During our afternoon in Lublin you will see the old town with its impressive Krakow Gate dating back to the 14th century, the Town Hall, Dominican Church and Monastery founded in the 13th century. We will also visit Lublin Castle and the Holy Trinity Chapel where we see the priceless set of Russo-Byzantine Frescoes.
Hotel: Lublin (IBB Grand Hotel)
Meals: Buffet Breakfast, Dinner
Forecast: Lublin 22 and showers in the pm
6.00am - Wake up call.
6.30am - Breakfast is served
6.45am - Bags out
7.45am - Depart for Kazimierz Dolny and Lublin
I went to bed as soon as I got back from the optional last night, which was around 10pm. Not quite true. I soaked my feet in the bath, which I had run with cold water and that seemed to help a bit, then went to bed. Tossed and turned for a couple of hours and eventually fell asleep sometime after midnight and slept until the alarm went off at 5am. Switched the kettle on, hobbled to the bathroom, had a shower and dressed. Made myself a cup of coffee, ate a chocolate gingerbread man and popped a pill. The wake up call came through at 6am and I put the main luggage outside as I headed down to breakfast, just after 6.30. As I am not walking/exercising, as I would normally do on a tour, I'm cutting down on the food intake. An orange juice, some mushrooms, tomato and scrambled eggs for breakfast. Back to my room to put the last of the things in the carry-on and then down to reception to check out and hit the road again.
There is another Insight group checking out this morning too. We got away on time and I snoozed along the way. Tim played a short movie about Warsaw during the last war and the destruction of the Jewish section and murder of the Jews by the Nazi's. We had a comfort stop about 9.15 and were on the way again after about 20 minutes.
Still beautiful green farming land, although I have noticed that the farmers are on their tractors plowing some fields. Perhaps getting them ready for the winter season?
I forgot to make a note of the time when we arrived in Kazimierz Doiny. I think it was around 10ish. We walked from the bus park to the old town square, which took me 20 minutes. Tim pointed out a few things and then we had free time until 12.50pm. I would have loved to explore this pretty little township but instead I sat at one of the cafés and had a cuppaccino and a slice of cheesecake and people watched. It was raining by then, so I was in a good place. While there, the Lublin chapter of the Harley Davidson Bike Club arrived,
for what must have been a lunch stop. There were 20 or 30 of them, all lined up in the square. I managed to get a couple of photos of the bikes. A couple of the ladies from the tour found a tiny restaurant where they were having lunch, so I sat with them for a while. I then visited the small but beautiful Baroque church but no photos allowed. By then it was shortly before 12.30pm and I decided to start walking back to the coach, as I take much longer than anyone else.
Shortly after, the rest of the group arrived and we were soon on our way to Lublin.
We arrived at the Lublin Castle just after 2pm. The plan is to visit the Castle with a local guide, which will take about 1.5hrs and then a walking tour of the Old Town, which will be about another 1.5hrs and that will end at our hotel. For those not wanting or unable to visit the castle, Merik, our driver, will drive us to the hotel. There were 4 walking wounded. Gabrielle, who has a virus of some sort. She saw a doctor yesterday in Warsaw. John Young, who admits that he should never have come on this tour, because of his pre-existing walking problem but he wanted to be the person who has done the most Insight tours. Geoff & Sandra Williams have done 16 and this one will be John's 17th. Then Zulette Gordon from Victoria, Canada, who hurt her foot in Prague but can walk distances, as long as it isn't on cobblestones and I was the forth.
Merik was then going back to the castle, to pick up others, who didn't want to do the Old Town walking tour and bring them back to the hotel. The group are meeting in the bar at 6.45pm for drinks and a Thank you from Insight, before having dinner in the hotel.
I was hoping that once I was checked in, I would be able to soak my feet in the bath but, alas, I only have a shower and I can't see how I can plug up the drain outlet.
There is a fairly high shower hob, so if I could plug the hole, I could soak my feet. Never mind, at least I can catch up with the journal.
This bedroom is tiny and it's the first 'single' room that I have been in.
Very old worldy. I've decided that the main luggage will have to sit in front of the minibar, as that is the only place that isn't in front of a door or wardrobe and I don't plan on opening the minibar. We have been very fortunate with internet access on this tour. In all hotels and all free.
I went downstairs to the bar shortly after 4pm and sat and read my book for a while. People from the Castle visit arrived back sometime after 4.30 and the luggage was bought in, as the rest of the group are walking back to the hotel. Ann told me that I didn't really miss much by not seeing the Castle, which is now a museum. I went back to my room shortly after 5 and checked the temps for the next couple of days and pulled clothes out to hang in the wardrobe, so the wrinkles will fall out before I wear them.
We all gathered in the bar at 6.45 and Tim thanked us all on behalf of Insight and the drinks are on them. At least this time, little gifts weren't handed out, which is what they used to do. We then went to the hotel restaurant for dinner. Real vegetables. The starter was a salad with olives, tomatoes, lettuce, cheese and I can't remember what else. I then had fish with steamed vegetables. Carrots, cauliflower, broccoli and no potatoes, for a change. Dessert was deep fried apple with ice cream. At least it wasn't Apple cake or apple strudel. I was back in my room shortly after nine and my light was out by 9.30.
Day 15: Sun 21st Sept 2014 - CHELM CHALK TUNNELS - ZAMOSC – LUBLIN
Today we head east to the small town of Chelm for our visit to the Chelm Chalk Tunnels. The chalk tunnelling began in the middle ages and was discontinued in the 19th century. It is now a system of tunnels purely for tourists and has a network stretching 15 kilometres. It is said that sometimes, a ghost known as "Bieluch" appears to visitors walking through the illuminated galleries.
After our visit to the Chalk Tunnels we leave Chelm to head further south to visit the UNESCO World Heritage listed town of Zamosc has been called the Padua of the North and the Pearl of the Renaissance. What gives the city its unique character is its Renaissance model town-planning layout, which has remained unchanged since its creation in the 16th century.
Hotel: Lublin (IBB Grand Hotel)
Meals: Buffet Breakfast. FIND OWN DINNER.
Forecast: 23 and partly cloudy
7.00am - Wake up call
7.30am - Breakfast is served
8.30am - Depart for visit to Zamosc & Chelm Chalk Tunnels
Another not so good nights sleep. I had set my alarm for 6.30am but woke at 5am, rolled over and slept again until the alarm went off. I had planned on staying in bed longer but once awake, got up.
I had showered, washed my hair and was almost dressed when the wake up call came through. Most people had already had breakfast by the time I got there but they are all going on the days excursion, whereas I am staying in Lublin. I don't think they is an awful lot near by but I will have a bit of a wander, if I feel up to it
I went for a short walk just after 9.30am. There is a park diagonally across the road from the hotel, with a couple of statues in it
and further up the road, there is a pedestrian road that appears to have a number of restaurants lined along it. (Stephanie was telling me later in the evening that they aren't restaurants but cafés that just serve drinks and desserts)
I didn't walk quite that far (maybe only 100 metres), as the pain pill had worn off, so I returned to the hotel.
I sat in the bar/lounge of the hotel and had a coffee and read my book for a while. After that I returned to my room (which had already been serviced) and took my shoes off and put my feet up.
 |
| View of our hotel from the park diagonally across the road from it. |
I went downstairs again at 12.30 and ordered something to eat. Fig, Parma ham and goat cheese, served on a green salad with a citrus sauce as a starter,
then for dessert, hot plum with almond crumble topping and vanilla sauce.
Plus a large beer. That was my lunch and dinner.
There was a family group that arrived around 2.35pm and I think they might have been having lunch to celebrate a christening, as there was a 3 or 4 month old baby, all dressed in white, having special photos taken on the grand piano, which is in the foyer. Must have been more than a lunch, as they didn't leave the hotel until around 6pm.
I continued reading and then went back to my room at 3.30pm.
I returned downstairs to the bar/lounge area around 5pm. I prefer to sit there and do a bit of people watching, instead of sitting in my room. The tour group arrived back around 5.45ish and Tim said that we were having another gathering in the bar/lounge area at 6.45pm. I decided to stay where I was and at 6pm ordered myself a white wine. A double actually, as the single wines can be consumed in about 3 sips.
John Boulding and Nigel, arrived just before I ordered my drink and John was nackered. He had flown with Emirates from Brisbane to Singapore to Dubai, to Gatwick. Car transfer to Heathrow. 5 hours in airport/airport hotel and then to Lublin, although Tim had said he was flying into Warsaw and then to Lublin. Which ever Polish airport he flew into, he was exhausted.
The rest of the gang gathered and we had a drink and John said thanks to us and he will fill us in with more info tomorrow, when we are on the bus and as tomorrow is our longest travel day, there will be plenty of time. I was back in my room before 8.30pm and got the luggage packed, as much as I can, bearing in mind our early start tomorrow. I'm heading to bed as soon as I send this off, so my light should be out by 9.30pm.
Day 16: Mon 22nd Sept 2014 - LUBLIN TO ZAKOPANE AND THE HIGH TATRAS MOUNTAINS
Today is essentially a day of travel in order to cover the distance between Lublin and Zakopane.
On the way we stop briefly for a look at the beautiful town of Sandomierz which is located at the junction of the Vistula and San rivers. The city came into existance in the early middle ages and in fact there is evidence of human habitation since the Neolithic era.
Continue south to come to the High Tatras and the resort town of Zakopane, famous for its wooden houses and winter sports.
Tonight, enjoy a Highlight Dinner accompanied by local ‘Goral’ Highlander folklore entertainment
Hotel: Zakopane (Hotel Grand Nosalowy Dwor)
Meals: Buffet Breakfast, Highlight Dinner
Forecast: Lublin 14 & rain or Zakopane 11 & rain.
6.00 - Wake up call.
6.30 - Bags out
6.30 - Breakfast is served.
7.30 - Depart to Sandomierz & Zakopane.
John Boulding, CEO of Insight Vacation, joined us last night and he will be travelling with us for a few days.
I put my light out around 9.30 and slept soundly until about 12.30am, then tossed and turned for quite some time before eventually going back to sleep and woke again when my alarm went off just on 5am. Put my bag out at 6.30am, as I headed down to breakfast. Poached egg, freshly squeezed orange juice and some thin crispy bacon rashers plus coffee, hit the spot this morning.
We departed on time and travelled for about 2 hours before making our first stop at Sandomierz. The countryside on the way, was again rolling hills.
It was raining lightly when we arrived in Sandomierz and as I wasn't doing the walking tour and we weren't departing until 12.15pm, Cyndy & I found a cafe and I ordered a coffee and the speciality soup of the region with rye, egg & sausage, which is served in a loaf and that will do me for lunch. John Young wandered in about 10 minutes later and then about half an hour after that Tim arrived, to say that some of the group, were over in another cafe, having coffee, cake & schnapps, on Insight, and we should join them when we were finished our food. We arrived there around 11 and all of the group were there, as the local guide had shortened the local walk because of the heavy rain. We departed Sandomierz at 11.30am.
We eventually hit the highway and were making good progress, when there was a diversion and we were back on the country roads again. Mind you, I love the country roads but we have a long way to go today. We had a 15 minute stop somewhere along the way and then a 30 minute stop at 4.30pm. We should have had it about an hour before, because Merik, our driver is supposed to have a 45 minute break during every 4 hours of driving.
As we got close to the mountains, Tim could hardly contain his enthusiasm for this area of Poland. That might have something to do with the fact that he lives the other side of the mountains that we could see. He lives in a small village called Babia Gora, which is in the Vestits Range, which is part of the Western Carpathians, which are part of the Tatra Mountains. I think that the particular area that we were travelling through is Mariola. The main trees that grow through here are Spruce, Birch, Mountain Pine and fir trees.
We finally arrived at our hotel
shortly before 6.30pm, so we had time to freshen up before heading out at 7.45pm for our Highlight dinner. It was at a local 'Highlander' restaurant and the food was really delicious. 3 starters that were shared. Hot smocked goats cheese, a pancake thingy filled with a garlic sauce and a sour cabbage soup which wasn't sour at all. I had crumbed pork cutlets for my main. The other choice was trout. Then for dessert, I had ice cream with a hot cherry sauce.
We returned to the hotel
around 10ish and a few of us headed up to the 'Panorama' bar, on the 5th floor of the hotel. During the day the view would be lovely but at 10 at night, it was too dark to see anything. BUT included with our key at check-in was a free welcome drink, card, so we were heading there to have our free drink. All up there were about 10 of us, including Tim & John B. John was interesting in hearing about our comments re the tour, the new website they have just launched and our thoughts about their new program's/tours for next year, 2016. I went to my room shortly before midnight, got everything ready for the morning and my light went out just on midnight. I also opened my window, as the room was just far too warm for me.
Day 17: Tue 23rd Sept 2014 - ZAKOPANE - WIELICZKA SALT MINES – KRAKOW
This morning spend some time at leisure shopping for local specialties in the markets of Krupowki street, or ascend nearby Mt Gubalowka by funicular for great views across the Tatras into Slovakia.
This afternoon we travel to Royal Krakow. After checking into our hotel join our local expert for a walk through the Old Town, past the courtyard of Jagellonian University and medieval Cloth Hall, to visit the 14th century St Mary's Church (keep your eyes and ears peeled for the trumpeter in the tower).
This evening we are free to do our own thing in this lovely city. Perhaps stroll into the old town for dinner and coffee and a little "people watching" in Europes largest town square.
Hotel: Krakow (Niebieski Art Hotel)
Meals: Buffet Breakfast. FIND OWN DINNER.
Forecast: Zakopane 8 & rain. Krakow 13 & showers in the AM.
7.00am - Wake up call.
7.00am - Breakfast is served
7.30am - Bags out
8.30am - Depart for intro to Zakopane with local "Goral" expert Stan, followed by 'Treasures of Zakopane'. And later depart to Krakow.
OPTIONAL
Treasures of Zakopane
A wonderful morning in this beautiful region of Poland. With our local Goral mountain guide we will enter the Tatras National Park to visit the famous wooden Jaszczurówka Chapel. Next we visit the Papal sanctuary at Krzeptowki, the Old Church and nearby cemetery with the Sorrowful Jesus stone and wooden statues. Now our guide will take us to a “bacowka” – highlanders hut to see how the shepherds make “oscypek” cheese, followed by lunch in a mountain ranger restaurant and a horse carriage ride in Chocholowska Valley.
I had a reasonable nights sleep, considering that it was midnight when I went to bed. Woke at 2.30am, as the pain killers had worn off but slept again and woke with the alarm, when it went off at 6am. There was a huge range of food for breakfast. I stuck with juice, scrambled eggs, mushrooms & French toast. Very delicious.
We departed on time for our included visits and everyone is doing the optional, so that makes life easier. First up we visited a tiny timber church,
then we visited an old cemetery.
Then at 0930 stopped at a big church and off again at 10. I have to confess to not being especially interested in the last church, just because my feet were protesting. We continued on after the church stop, to an establishment that was a sheep cheese making place, arriving at 10.15am. Very interesting and if I could bring fresh food back to Australia, I would have bought some of their produce.
We were away again at 10.30am. We then proceeded to a small house/restaurant, where we had a warm mulled wine. Very inner warming. After the wine we then went for our horse and buggy ride
but the rain decided to start, so the driver put the cabin up. We couldn't see very much but it was a nice gentle clip clop way of seeing flat mountain countryside.
We returned to the restaurant where we had lunch. Smoked cheese for starter, pork sausage & dumplings for the main and pancake & cream for dessert. I think we got away again, shortly before 1pm. We drove to the centre of town and those who wanted to do some shopping had an hour before the bus would pick them up again from the same spot. The driver then drove to a bus car park with approx 20 of us on the coach and people either read, chatted or played computer games to pass the time. Oh, did I mention that it was raining. I preferred to stay on the bus.
We picked the others up shortly before 2pm and were on our way to Krakow and making good time until about 2.45, when every thing slowed down big time. It seems that there is an accident further up the road and the traffic is just crawling at the moment. (I'm writing this while we travel). We were diverted onto another road just after 3pm.
Tim was saying that once we get to Krakow and have checked into the hotel, we will be doing a walking tour with a local guide, which will end in the town square. If I think I can do it, I might join them. Cyndy managed to get some Nurofen for me today, so I am okay with pain killers, until I get home and see the doctor, to confirm what my problem is.
John B has also said that if any of us want to join him and Tim at a pizzeria tonight for a pizza, we are welcome. On the Insight tab.
Tim has just told us that there is a bad accident on the other road and that the new road we are on will add another hour to our travel time, so we won't get into Krakow until 5ish, instead of the 4pm that was planned.
We arrived in Krakow around 4.45pm, having made better time than Tim was hoping for. So after check in, the bags were delivered fairly quickly. My room is on the ground floor and fronts onto the outside main road. Apart from the fact that I won't be opening my window tonight to let some fresh air in, I'm not complaining. Absolutely no traffic noise.
Cyndy has a room on the first floor but apparently the traffic noise was very loud and she has been moved to the 4th floor. John Young didn't like the 2 single beds in his room, as he needs a wider bed, so he got moved too.
Most of us met at 6pm for the included walk through the old town with a local guide. I have been keeping the pain killers up, so I can walk without too much pain. Mind you, once they wear off!!!.
Tim's wife and son & nanny joined us on the bus and at the dinner.
We were driven to the Royal Castle, departed the bus and started our walk. Fairly easy pace that I could cope with, and the guide was extremely informative, without giving us too much information. Even
though Krakow is considered the Cultural capital of Poland, it still has some heavy steel and iron industries. We walked through the university quarter and eventually ended up at the Old Town Square. I have to agree with the local guide. This is the best Old Town Square in all of Europe. At least of the ones that I have seen.
We eventually arrived at the Pizza restaurant and we all took up Johns offer of a bite to eat and a drink or 3.
Delicious starters, tasty wine, yummy light pizza's (not my favourite food) and great conversation. What more could you ask for. A couple of people slipped away to explore a bit more, as tomorrow's program will take them out of Krakow until about 5pm and we all regrouped at 9.15pm and walked back to the castle, to rejoin the bus and come back to the hotel. John has also invited people up to the bar for a nightcap, which was essentially another opportunity for him to hear the customers view's, in an informal environment. I bid them all goodnight at 11pm and as I am not leaving Krakow tomorrow, I can have a sleep in. Night all.
Day 18: Wed 24th Sept 2014 - DAY TRIP TO AUSCHWITZ – WADOWICE
First stop today is to the city of Oświęcim, better known throughout the world by its German name, Auschwitz, the most infamous site of the Holocaust. Here a moving visit to the memorials and museums of Auschwitz and Birkenhau bear witness to the terrible atrocities of the Holocaust. Spend some reflective moments amid the remains of the concentration camp and the memorials to those who died.
Continuing on we visit Wadowice, the birth place of Pope John Paul II. We visit his home, which is now a museum, before returning to our hotel in Krakow.
Perhaps join us for a great evening of Klezmer music in the former Jewish quarter of Kazimierz this evening.
Hotel: Krakow (Niebieski Art Hotel)
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
OPTIONAL:
Krakow- Nostalgic Klezmer Evening & Dinner in Kazimierz-
Spend an evening in the former Jewish district of Kraków called Kazimierz enjoying a three course dinner consisting of local Jewish specialties. Klezmer music will transport you back to a time when many different cultures were celebrated in Poland. A great concert by very talented musicians in an atmospheric setting. Drinks are included.
Forecast: 16 and partly cloudy.
6.30am - Wake up call
6.30am - Breakfast is served
7.45am - Depart for Auschwitz & Wadowice Signature visits.
7.00pm - Depart to Klezmer Evening & Dinner.
I forgot to mention yesterday, that when we returned from our city walk and dinner, there was a gift in our room from Insight. A backpack. I had a quick look at it last night and it is something that I will be using when travelling. They used to give hand held carry-on's many years ago but stopped that around 2004/2005 but these back packs are quite nice. Good one Insight.
Seems that I also left the bar last night at the right time, as apparently the nightcap drinkers continued on until 12.30am.
I had a good sleep. Woke up at 5am and no foot pain. Went back to sleep and unfortunately was then woken up by the wake up call at 6.15am. Dozed again until 7 and then got up. I went up to breakfast at 8 and caught up with Dee, Cyndy & Zulette and we arranged to meet at 9.30, to share a taxi into the Old Town Square. The trip in, took all of about 3 minutes. Cyndy went her own way, while the other 2 and I headed to the square. Zulette bought some Christmas gifts for some of her family and then we all wandered through the Cloth Hall.
Dee was looking for a handbag, so she & Zulette headed off in the direction of a large shopping mall, while I stayed within the square area. I sat for a coffee and people watched for a while. I also found a pharmacy and bought some more pills. Even though Cyndy bought a packet for me yesterday, as I had finished the others, the packet only contained 10 pills so only just 3 days worth. I can now take pills on the plane, if I need to.
Because there are so many feathered rats in the square, the cleaners go around the square on their machines. One hoses down the cobblestones, while the other one vacuums the excess soapy water up, so the pigeon poo is gone.
The ladies eventually found me and Stephanie had joined them, so the 4 of us then went looking for a restaurant, to have some lunch. After lunch Stephanie headed off down another street. She is looking for a scarf. The 3 of us then wandered back to where we were dropped off this morning and took a taxi back to the hotel. We were back by about 2.30pm.
I caught up with some hand washing and that will be the last of it for this tour. I checked out the forecast for tomorrow and Friday and pulled out the clothes that I will be wearing. I think I might take a nap this afternoon.
It's now 5.30pm and I didn't have a nap. As we will be out and about tomorrow, I thought I had better think about tips for Tim & Malik. That's all sorted now, so I won't be caught short.
Later
The departure time for dinner tonight was 7pm. We arrived at the venue, along with another 2 coach loads of people but we were in our own private room and never saw any other people, apart from the musicians and the wait staff. Duck pate as a starter, lamb shank for the main and a very light cheesecake for dessert. The music was very good and the violinist/singer has an unusual voice. I decided that if they have a CD, I would buy it and I did.
The meal was over before we knew it and we departed for the hotel at 9.16 and were back by 9.38. An early start for me tomorrow, after the leisure day that I had today, so if I send this off now, I should have my light out by 11pm.
Day 19: Thu 25th Sept 2014 - KRAKOW CITY TOUR
We begin our morning with out visit to the UNESCO Heritage listed Wieliczka Salt Mines. The 600 year old salt mines, situated on the outskirts of Krakow, is where we view an underground world of chambers filled with absolutely unique sculptures, sculpted from salt by the miners themselves.
Now join our local expert to 'Old Podgorze' for a highlight visit to the Oscar Schindler Factory Museum, immortalised in the film 'Schindlers List', before we ascend the Wawel Hill to see the Renaissance Castle and meet the 'Wawel Dragon'. Visit the Cathedral, resting place of the Kings of Poland and former seat of Archbishop Karol Wojtyla, letter known to the world as Pope John Paul II.
Tonight we say farewell to our travelling companions at our countryside farewell dinner and folklore show after a truly memorable tour of the Czech Republic and Poland.
Hotel: Krakow (Niebieski Art Hotel)
Meals: Buffet Breakfast, Celebration Dinner
Forecast: 15 partly cloudy.
6.30am - Wake up call
6.30am - Breakfast is served.
7.45am - Depart for full day sightseeing with Salt Mines, Schindler Factory & Wawel Hill.
6.45pm - Depart for Farewell Dinner.
I had a fairly good nights sleep and woke shortly before the alarm went off. I was showered and dressed before the wake up call came and then went up to breakfast just after 6.30. Sat with Angela for a change. Roger is feeling a bit under the weather, so he didn't come to breakfast this morning. Angela & Roger have been on the other 2 BB tours that I've been on, so they are like 'old' friends.
We head off for the Salt Mines in 20 minutes. I'm looking forward to re-visiting them.
We departed from the hotel at 7.45am and arrived at the salt mines around 8.15am. I had forgotten how much standing around you do, waiting to get down to the mines. We finally boarded the elevators around 9.15. Each elevator cage holds 9 people and there is only one elevator shaft but there are about 4 or 5 cages, one above the other and there are 2 landings, for boarding. Once 2 cages are loaded, the cages go down until the next 2 cages are at the landing and so on. Once the group is loaded on board, down we go. I think the ride down, takes about 25 seconds.
After taking about a dozen photos, my battery started flashing. I had forgotten to put the new battery in earlier, so unfortunately, I had to be very frugal with my photo taking today. At least I could still taken some.
After taking about a dozen photos, my battery started flashing. I had forgotten to put the new battery in earlier, so unfortunately, I had to be very frugal with my photo taking today. At least I could still taken some.
We had finished our visit and were out of the mine by 11am. The guide said that the tour lasts 3 hours but I think that must included the waiting time. :)
We were supposed to be finding our own lunch today, but Tim had checked out the eateries at the mines and some of them that were usually open, weren't, and as there was a fair crowd already queuing, he had arranged a little restaurant across the road to do lunch for all of us, on the Insight tab. It's called an "Insight flourish". Thank you Mr Boulding.
We departed the restaurant around midday, on our way to the Schindler Factory Museum. The exhibition is quite well done but it's not really about Schindler, it's really about Krakow during the war.
That tour lasted about 90 minutes and we were outside by 2pm. As my feet were protesting big time, plus I didn't want to take another pain killer just yet, I opted not to do the walking tour of Wawel Hill & the Castle, so stayed on the bus, along with about 18 others and went back to the hotel.
That tour lasted about 90 minutes and we were outside by 2pm. As my feet were protesting big time, plus I didn't want to take another pain killer just yet, I opted not to do the walking tour of Wawel Hill & the Castle, so stayed on the bus, along with about 18 others and went back to the hotel.
Leisure time to write up the journal for today, have a shower and change for our Farewell Dinner and fill in the Insight feedback form, which Tim handed out on the way to the hotel.
I have to double check with him but I think my pickup tomorrow is around 2pm, for my 4.30 flight to Munich, which is 12.30am Saturday in Canberra and my flight is due to arrive back in Canberra at 12.55pm on Sunday. That's not too bad. Only 36 hrs from here to there, including 11 hrs waiting for flights. But before then, we have our farewell dinner tonight, which departs the hotel at 6.45pm.
Later
We arrived back from the Farewell Dinner just on 10pm. 4 people have transfers tomorrow morning at 4.15am. Others have 7.30am, 10.30am & 1.30pm. My transfer is at 2pm, so again, I can have a leisurely morning.
The farewell dinner was great. Delicious food, local music and dancing and I think everyone had a good time.
Day 20: Fri 26th September 2014 - Depart to airport
After breakfast you will transfer to the airport for your departing flights.
Forecast: - 16 light rain in the am.
I woke early and when I put my light on to see the time, it was 4.20am. Geoff, Sandra and Cyndy had arranged private transfers and were due to be picked up at 4.15am. John Young had arranged nothing, not even a taxi. He had hinted a couple off times to Cyndy that he could share her transfer vehicle but she was ignoring the hint. When he was telling Tim of his dilemma, Tim politely offered to drive him to the airport and John readily accepted.
The next time I woke, it was 6am and when I was still wide awake at 6.30, I got up, showered, washed my hair, dressed and went up to breakfast just on 7am. A few couples were just leaving, as they were on the 7.30 coach transfer and when I eventually went down to my room (on the reception level floor) I ran into Zulette, who was just heading to have some breakfast. She is on the 10.30 transfer with a few others. I went back to my room to sort out the luggage and catch up on this. It is raining lightly and looks like it might have been raining for quite some time.
Watched a bit of TV and then back to the foyer to say goodbye to the 1030 departures. I finally checked out of my room at 1130 and sat in the foyer chatting to Anne, Klaus and Maureen. They are taking off on the 1.30 pm coach transfer.
My transfer pickup arrived right on the dot of 2pm. The weather is still showering. The trip out to the airport only took about 20 minutes and we passed the aftermath of an accident. The road to the airport is narrow and windy and it looked like a small bus and a black sedan, side swiped each other. The black sedan's left side was certainly a mess and the bus was off the road and I think might have also hit a tree. (When I spoke to Ann & Klaus about it later they were saying that their bus had to take a detour road around the accident). There are major works going on at the Krakow airport, so the driver had to drop me quite a way from the entrance and it was lightly raining then. Once inside the terminal, I quickly found the check-in counter and the proceeded to go through security.
Now that was a fun little exercise. I had pulled my liquids out and put them and the iPad in a tray, along with my jacket and hand bag and glasses. I even had to take my shoes off. The usual things that they need to see. Not good enough. Once through the screening, they pulled my carry-on aside and asked me open it and I then had to take my camera, tablet & camera chargers, jewellery and umbrella out and take my watch off, so it could all go through screening again.
Once I had slowly repacked the carry-on, making sure that I had everything, I then headed for the gate and spotted Ann, Klaus and Maureen all sitting there, so I joined them, instead of going to the lounge. By now, is was probably 3 o'clock. 4 o'clock arrived and Ann was wondering when the flight would be called and where was the plane? We were at a gate where you went downstairs and depending on where the plane was, either walked to it or caught a bus to it. The flight was called at 4.20pm and we were loaded onto 2 buses and taken to the plane. Everyone was onboard by 4.35, it was backed out at 4.36 and we were airborn at 4.45. Touched down at Munich airport at 5.45 and then taxied for 10 minutes, before deplaning and boarding buses again, to be taken to Terminal 2. I went up the escalator and spotted Klaus & Ann and then we discovered that our departure gate was actually in Terminal 1 and we needed to take a bus transfer to get there. Back downstairs we went and found the transfer point and caught the next bus at 6.38. We were dropped off at T1 a few minutes later. All the gates on this level were D and there was a sign saying that the C gates were up 1 level. We took the lift just inside the door to the C gates level and I then discovered that I had left my Kathmandu jacket on the transfer bus. I'll have to write that one off to carelessness.
And so we began our long treck, trying to find our C06 gate. There was no one else walking up on this level. After about 200 metres a staff member of some sort was walking towards us, so Klaus accosted him to ask how we get down to the C gates. The guy said that there was an area about another 100 meters along, where we could get down. As we walked along, we could see that the D gates had ended and the C's were starting. Then we spotted a sign for passport control and found 3 police officers/immigration guys sitting there so we presented our passports. They wanted to know when and where we entered Europe. They were actually looking for the entry stamp, so they could stamp the same page with the exit stamp. Mine was easy as the guy in Prague had stamped the last page of my passport. They were quite friendly. I have no idea what they thought about we 3 crazy Australians. We just thought our treck was hilarious.
By now my last pain pill had worn off, so I decided to look for the Emirates Lounge, once we got down to the C gates level. It is almost opposite gate C06 and when I asked the man at reception, how far along C06 is from the lounge, he said about 15 metres. Good, I won't have to walk too far. By now it was just after 7pm and when I entered the lounge, I was the only person there. No one else arrived until 7.25pm. I've now had a glass of champagne, a plate of fresh fruit and am now nibbling on a few green olives and dried apricots. Our flight EK052 or QF8052, departs at 9.50pm but I'm planning on going out before then and will do some duty free window shopping and then I'll head to the gate. I just went out and as I left the lounge the guy at reception said "you'll be back" he was right. The Duty free shops in this part of the terminal are terrible. There are only 8 or 9 of them but nothing there that I'm interested in.
It's now after 9pm and I know that I said you wouldn't hear from me again until I'm home but I'll send this off now.
Fri 26th Sept 2014 - Munich to Dubai
I departed the Emirates Lounge at 9.20pm. The flight hadn't been called but I thought I'd head out anyway. When I went to go through the gate, my boarding pass wouldn't register. Seems that my seat is broken and won't recline, so I am now in seat 12D.
The plane push backed at 10.35 and then started going forward at about 10.40 and continued until 10.55. I then went to sleep for 10 minutes, so we took off sometime while I was napping. Dinner orders were taken at 11.30pm but I decided to give that a miss, apart from a light starter. It was close to 1am local time or 3am Dubai time, when I went to sleep. I was woken with the announcement saying that we were approaching Dubai and would be landing in 30 minutes, so I guess I managed 3 hours sleep but it was solid sleep.
We touched down in Dubai at 6.30am and this time the plane arrived at a gate, instead of the middle of a paddock, like the previous 2 flights on my way out. My next flight departs at 9.35am and starts to board at 8.50. The girl at the desk said that it takes 10 minutes to walk to the gate from the lounge here, so if I allow myself 15 minutes, I should get there in time. I feel a bit more human now, after having a strong cup of coffee and washing my face and teeth cleaning.
Emirates have 'quiet lounges', which means that there are no boarding announcements, so if you aren't keeping an eye on the clock for when your flight is due, you could miss it. Mind you, I can hear a number of announcements but they might be filtering up from the level below, where all the departure gates are. Nothing else going on here.
Seeing I have 4 hours to kill in Melbourne airport, I might send another email from there.
Sat 27th Sept 2014 - Dubai to Singapore to Melbourne
I left the Emirates Lounge at 8.35am and started walking to departure gate B26. The flight was just started to board as I arrived, so I didn't have to wait around at the gate. 10B aisle seat. The flight was due to depart at 9.35 but didn't push back until 9.55am and then it was another 20 minutes before we reached the take off point and we were in the air by 10.15am.
I'm catching up on some movies this flight.
Mom's Night Out. Lightweight chic flic
Walk of Shame. Ditto
The Calling. Drama.
The flight landed in Singapore at 9.30pm and we disembarked and then re-entered the same departure lounge. I didn't bother to check out any shops. Back through security and then just waited to board. Boarding began again about 10.25. The pilot has just announced that flying time is 6hr 45 minutes to Melbourne, once we get in the sky. He's also an Australian, who lives in Melbourne. The 2nd officer is from Sweden and the 3rd? from India.
Push back at 10.55, airborn at 11.15.
Dinner was served at around 1am. I again just opted for the starter and gave the main & desert a miss. Come to think of it, I don't recall having any of the deserts, apart from on the way out of Australia.
Once my plates were taken away, I laid the seat back and went to sleep. I woke just before 6am, about 1 minute before the attendant was waking me for breakfast.
A light breakfast of fresh fruit, orange juice, bread roll & coffee.
We landed in Melbourne 10 minutes early, at 7.40 but then had to sit on the tarmac until 8.05, because there was a Singapore Airlines plane sitting in our gate that had to be towed out of the gate. I think we were finally off the plane around 8.30 and then the queue for the e-passport holders to pass through immigration was HUGE. There must have been at least 2 other international planes landed around the same time, as the queues heading to customs were extremely long ones. At least, when I got to the exit, I didn't have to have my luggage gone through. Departed the international terminal and went next door to the domestic one. Checked the luggage in there, then through security and to the Qantas lounge. I think I'll have to start walking to the gate about 15-20 minutes before boarding, as it's at gate 26 which will be at the end of the gates and the lounge is way before the gates start. The flight is at 11.50.
