Today began will relaxing at the Mediterranean Sea (I think) then at the pool. Then we left the hotel and visited Casa Mila (Gaudi house). The style of the building is gothic with rounded edges (no straight lines). It looks like a haunted mansion. The banisters have weird, gothic decorations. On the top there are sculptures that are reminiscent of faces. It is located on Paseo de Gracia (street).
After we visited Casa Batllo Gaudi - another house designed by Gaudi - on same street. The detailing was extremely intricate with mosaics that fill up the front of the house; also the porch banisters look like the eyes and nose of a skull and the banister at the top of the house looks like a flower. This house is out of a book - scary yet fascinating - mesmerizing.
Next we had lunch at Brown - once again on same street. We had prime seating inside, right next to the window which made it a great people watching spot. We ate chicken catalan style (with dried fruits) and pizza. The restaurant charged us for "cover" which I don't like (It refers to just using the table and supplies - and bread)
After lunch we did some shopping - street vendors on Av. Portal de l'Angel - and shopping in the area of Barri Gotic (for family - so everyone be thankful!) Then we saw the Cathedral of Barcelona - not the one that has been being renovated for many years which is called Sagrada Familia (still being built - designed by Gaudi but he died before construction began)
We spent the rest of the day walking around the streets, checking out stores in back alley ways and having an over-all fulfilling day. We ended the night at a tapas bar. Yum yum.
By the way everyone, do not be afraid to comment on the posts! I love the reactions people have to what I write and truly appreciate any comments, questions, or concerns. Thanks mom for commenting on all posts!! You're the best.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
I just met...
I just shook hands with Linford Christie - an Olympian from (I believe) the 1996 and 2000 Olympics. He won a medal for the 100 meters. This happened in the elevator - when I was on my way up to shower for the day after a morning swim. This hotel seems to be filled with celebrities and such.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Barcelona: Day 1
I can finally tell you - M and I are staying at the W hotel in Barcelona. Yes the nicest hotel in Barcelona. M's uncle is a regular here (with his company as well) so we got a ridiculously good price to stay here that we could not turn down. Today we spent the morning lounging by the pool and ocean, getting our food and drinks served to us, and had an overall very relaxing beginning of the day.
For lunch we went into the city and ate at Rossini Restaurant Italiano-Pizzeria which is located in Las Ramblas. Las Ramblas is a central, touristy shopping mile. It is filled with street artists, shops and restaurants. Las Ramblas refers to a street and area. At lunch we met a nice couple from Belgium - we exchanged information about Barcelona and traveling Europe and USA in general. They told us some nice spots to visit and showed us some cool photos.
After lunch we stopped by a supermercado (super market) for some water and supplies - the place was packed with locals (because the store was muy inexpensive). We walked up Las Ramblas (the supermarket was on the way) to Placa de Catalunya. It is a well-known open square - and can be considered the center of Barcelona because the city and shops surround it.
After spending time in the city square, M and I met up with M's old friend and roommate (named D). D took us out to a local bar where we sat outside having a wonderful discussion about many random subjects. The bar was located on Carrer Muntaner. We had a great time. After drinks, M and I came back to the W to chill in the bar and check out the club (Sky Bar). Sky Bar is the new hot-spot in Barcelona. I had a great relaxing day but tomorrow will be back to normal (visiting the city and seeing the tourist attractions).
For lunch we went into the city and ate at Rossini Restaurant Italiano-Pizzeria which is located in Las Ramblas. Las Ramblas is a central, touristy shopping mile. It is filled with street artists, shops and restaurants. Las Ramblas refers to a street and area. At lunch we met a nice couple from Belgium - we exchanged information about Barcelona and traveling Europe and USA in general. They told us some nice spots to visit and showed us some cool photos.
After lunch we stopped by a supermercado (super market) for some water and supplies - the place was packed with locals (because the store was muy inexpensive). We walked up Las Ramblas (the supermarket was on the way) to Placa de Catalunya. It is a well-known open square - and can be considered the center of Barcelona because the city and shops surround it.
After spending time in the city square, M and I met up with M's old friend and roommate (named D). D took us out to a local bar where we sat outside having a wonderful discussion about many random subjects. The bar was located on Carrer Muntaner. We had a great time. After drinks, M and I came back to the W to chill in the bar and check out the club (Sky Bar). Sky Bar is the new hot-spot in Barcelona. I had a great relaxing day but tomorrow will be back to normal (visiting the city and seeing the tourist attractions).
Monday, July 26, 2010
Paris: Day 3
Today we woke up, packed our bags (for Barcelona) and went on our way. We got breakfast at Boulangerie Julien on Rue Saint Martin. Then we walked to Le Centre Pompidou which is known for its futuristic look (of the Museum of Modern Art and water works). It is located in an old part of Paris which makes the design even more striking. The Museum of Modern Art is designed "inside out" meaning the pipes are visible on the outside. The water works are called the Fontaine Strawinsky - it is filled with designs that squirt water or just move around. Then we walked to Les Halles (a park close to where we stayed). There is a huge church inside the park - the name of which M does not know. Les Halles is also an area to live in - it is known for being a modern shopping area.
Next we took the subway to Madeleine. We walked around Place de la Madeleine then went around the corner to Academie Nationale de Musique - aka the Opera. The outside of it has some famous composers sculptures and years of life such as Beethoven and Mozart. We sat on the steps of the Opera which faces Place Vendome. We walked to Place Vendome which is a big open square lined in hotels, luxury boutiques such as Chanel, Piaget, Van Cleef, and Dior as well as the Ministry of Justice. At the center of the square sits on obelisk.
[ Going back to yesterday's activities, the restaurant at Montmartre turns out to be a very influential place for the restaurant jargon - because the word bistro (as it is used today) was founded at this restaurant. Bistro is a Russian word for fast. ]
We took the subway to Montparnasse. The couple from yesterday (P and C) suggested we come here because from the top of the building you have a great view of Paris and the best part about it is you can see the Eiffel Tower (most people choose to go to the top of the Eiffel Tower to view Paris as a whole but then you do not see Paris with the Eiffel Tower!) It took 38 seconds to reach the top and we are up 185 meters. The view is extraordinary!! It is a 360 degree view. It seems that parts of Paris are sectioned into triangles. You can literally see all of Paris.
After we walked around, got a savory and sweet crepe - because this area is known for their creperies. We got a cheese and ham - and a nutella and banana. Yum yum. Then we walked through Jardin de Luxembourg - which was magnificent. It is so beautiful and NOT crowded. The park was incredible and I am certainly going back!
The Paris part of the trip is now over and we are on our way to Barcelona.. Cataline (the language of the state of Catalunya) here we come!
Next we took the subway to Madeleine. We walked around Place de la Madeleine then went around the corner to Academie Nationale de Musique - aka the Opera. The outside of it has some famous composers sculptures and years of life such as Beethoven and Mozart. We sat on the steps of the Opera which faces Place Vendome. We walked to Place Vendome which is a big open square lined in hotels, luxury boutiques such as Chanel, Piaget, Van Cleef, and Dior as well as the Ministry of Justice. At the center of the square sits on obelisk.
[ Going back to yesterday's activities, the restaurant at Montmartre turns out to be a very influential place for the restaurant jargon - because the word bistro (as it is used today) was founded at this restaurant. Bistro is a Russian word for fast. ]
We took the subway to Montparnasse. The couple from yesterday (P and C) suggested we come here because from the top of the building you have a great view of Paris and the best part about it is you can see the Eiffel Tower (most people choose to go to the top of the Eiffel Tower to view Paris as a whole but then you do not see Paris with the Eiffel Tower!) It took 38 seconds to reach the top and we are up 185 meters. The view is extraordinary!! It is a 360 degree view. It seems that parts of Paris are sectioned into triangles. You can literally see all of Paris.
After we walked around, got a savory and sweet crepe - because this area is known for their creperies. We got a cheese and ham - and a nutella and banana. Yum yum. Then we walked through Jardin de Luxembourg - which was magnificent. It is so beautiful and NOT crowded. The park was incredible and I am certainly going back!
The Paris part of the trip is now over and we are on our way to Barcelona.. Cataline (the language of the state of Catalunya) here we come!
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Paris: Day 2
We went out today with the intention of getting bicycles again - big fail. The machines did not want our money. So walking it is. We stopped for a small breakfast at La Mie Caline which is down the street (pretty much) from the hotel. We also attempted to make reservation. s for the train to barcelona tomorrow. - not successful yet but later in the day it will be completed. We walked through Quartier Latin - which was reminiscent of Amsterdam with the small streets filled with restaurants catered to tourists, souvenir shops, and creperies. The Latin Quarter is filled with many students because the university is in this area - La Sorbonne.
Lunch was eaten at Auberge Notre Dame - located, as you can guess, next to the Notre Dame. We sat outside and had pasta in a spicy tomato sauce. Yum. Luckily the restaurant is not filled with tourists.
After lunch we visited Ile de la Cite. It is in the middle of the Seine - the Notre Dame is on the island. We did a bit of shopping at Nina Kendosa. Then we walked to the Jewish Quarter. It is not labeled as such but a friend of M's family told us its location. After the Jewish quarter, we walked to Le Bastille. There was a Sri Lanka protest occurring right next to it. Le Bastille was destroyed during the Revolution and now its a square with an obelisk. The actual building of Le Bastille does not exist anymore because it was destroyed on July 14, 1789 - independence day for France.
Side note: spelling mistake yesterday: Arc de Triomphe. Yesterday we also visited: the oldest bridge (in Paris) called Pont Neuf, Place de la Concorde - it is the end of Champs Elysees, and we biked by Des Invalides.
Now back to today. After Le Bastille, we walked back through the Jewish Quarter. Then we came back, changed and went to Montmartre. We saw the Sacre-Coeur which is overlooking much of Paris. It was beautiful. We walked the area around it, which is covered in restaurants, street artists, and little shops. Dinner was eaten at La Mere Catherine which is located on Place de Tertre. We met a couple at the table next to us who were very sweet - even M liked them! We exchanged knowledge about Paris - what we have seen and places they have seen - knowledge about tipping practices in various countries (USA as opposed to Europe. In the USA tipping is mandatory, but not just tipping - tipping a large percentage of the bill). Then the 4 of us took a gondola down the Montmartre hill instead of walking down all the steps. M and I bought a bottle of wine (during the walk to the gondola) and selected the fine bottle by comparing price and alcohol content - be proud of me Mom!
By the way, a reservation for the train to Barcelona was made before dinner. So no worries, we will be in Spain by Tuesday morning. And M and I hope to see/speak to P and C again (the couple we ate next to at dinner)!!
Lunch was eaten at Auberge Notre Dame - located, as you can guess, next to the Notre Dame. We sat outside and had pasta in a spicy tomato sauce. Yum. Luckily the restaurant is not filled with tourists.
After lunch we visited Ile de la Cite. It is in the middle of the Seine - the Notre Dame is on the island. We did a bit of shopping at Nina Kendosa. Then we walked to the Jewish Quarter. It is not labeled as such but a friend of M's family told us its location. After the Jewish quarter, we walked to Le Bastille. There was a Sri Lanka protest occurring right next to it. Le Bastille was destroyed during the Revolution and now its a square with an obelisk. The actual building of Le Bastille does not exist anymore because it was destroyed on July 14, 1789 - independence day for France.
Side note: spelling mistake yesterday: Arc de Triomphe. Yesterday we also visited: the oldest bridge (in Paris) called Pont Neuf, Place de la Concorde - it is the end of Champs Elysees, and we biked by Des Invalides.
Now back to today. After Le Bastille, we walked back through the Jewish Quarter. Then we came back, changed and went to Montmartre. We saw the Sacre-Coeur which is overlooking much of Paris. It was beautiful. We walked the area around it, which is covered in restaurants, street artists, and little shops. Dinner was eaten at La Mere Catherine which is located on Place de Tertre. We met a couple at the table next to us who were very sweet - even M liked them! We exchanged knowledge about Paris - what we have seen and places they have seen - knowledge about tipping practices in various countries (USA as opposed to Europe. In the USA tipping is mandatory, but not just tipping - tipping a large percentage of the bill). Then the 4 of us took a gondola down the Montmartre hill instead of walking down all the steps. M and I bought a bottle of wine (during the walk to the gondola) and selected the fine bottle by comparing price and alcohol content - be proud of me Mom!
By the way, a reservation for the train to Barcelona was made before dinner. So no worries, we will be in Spain by Tuesday morning. And M and I hope to see/speak to P and C again (the couple we ate next to at dinner)!!
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Paris: First Day
I can finally say I am in Paris but getting here was difficult. We got to the train in Amsterdam only to be told we need to pay more money for a reservation for the fast train. So we went back upstairs, got a reservation, got on another train to Brussels, went from Brussels to Paris, found a taxi (finally after walking from taxi to taxi only for each of them to point us in a different direction), and finally got to the hotel (Hotel de la Vallee on Rue Saint-Denis).
The hotel is in a happening part of Paris - on the way here we passed many bars filled with people as well as groups of people walking the streets. I cannot wait to explore the city.
On first glance, Paris looks similar to other European city. Skinny apartment buildings - lots of windows and porches. But in the morning I am sure the differences will be apparent.
Right now its morning and M and I are sitting at Cafe Coeur Couronne - had an english breakfast which consists of bread, butter, jam, coffee (I got tea), and orange juice. The cafe is in front of a large sculpture that has running water flowing on it. I believe our hotel is in the middle or at least near the red light district - Moulin Rouge!
After breakfast, we decided to rent bikes. Paris is a huge city and we want to experience it fully. An hour after we FOUND the bikes, we were off. (The automated bike rental did not accept M's credit card the first 10 times so it took many minutes to figure it out). We biked from our hotel to Seine river and to the Eiffel Tower. It is huge. One of the pillars of the tower is closed - each pillar is a separate entrance. We sat in the square adjacent to the tower - watching it and tourists flock to and fro.
Then we biked to Avenue des Champs Elysees - biked/walked up and down the street watching people shop, take pictures, eat, and relax. I saw the arch called L'arche de Triomfe - which holds the grave of unknown soldiers. Everything (clothing, food and such) is very expensive - we decided not to buy anything from this area, not even a small snack.
We biked to the Louvre next. So beautiful. It is the biggest museum in the world - we did not go inside because it takes weeks to see the whole museum and hours to get inside. We walked (because biking is not allowed) through the middle courtyard which is covered in beautiful landscaping. Next we stopped for a bite to eat on De Buci at a place called Paul - Notre Carte des beaux jours.
After lunch - which took, no joke, 2 hours (just to first get the wine, but its all good - I am in Europe, relaxation is key) - we biked to the Notre Dame. As usual, beautiful building with impeccable landscaping and hoards of tourists flocking around. Notre Dame is a cathedral in gothic architecture - the intricate details in the windows and ornaments make it truly special. The attention to detail is wonderful.
We drank some wine in front of the Notre Dame, then went back to the hotel for a quick nap, then woke up and had drinks at L'Equipe du Jip's Bar located on the corner of Saint Denis (street of our hotel) and Rue De la Ferronn. Before sleep, we stopped by a small grocer to get a banana and a water. I believe tomorrow is the end of the Tour de France so the streets near Champs Elysees will be crowded. Bon Nuit!
The hotel is in a happening part of Paris - on the way here we passed many bars filled with people as well as groups of people walking the streets. I cannot wait to explore the city.
On first glance, Paris looks similar to other European city. Skinny apartment buildings - lots of windows and porches. But in the morning I am sure the differences will be apparent.
Right now its morning and M and I are sitting at Cafe Coeur Couronne - had an english breakfast which consists of bread, butter, jam, coffee (I got tea), and orange juice. The cafe is in front of a large sculpture that has running water flowing on it. I believe our hotel is in the middle or at least near the red light district - Moulin Rouge!
After breakfast, we decided to rent bikes. Paris is a huge city and we want to experience it fully. An hour after we FOUND the bikes, we were off. (The automated bike rental did not accept M's credit card the first 10 times so it took many minutes to figure it out). We biked from our hotel to Seine river and to the Eiffel Tower. It is huge. One of the pillars of the tower is closed - each pillar is a separate entrance. We sat in the square adjacent to the tower - watching it and tourists flock to and fro.
Then we biked to Avenue des Champs Elysees - biked/walked up and down the street watching people shop, take pictures, eat, and relax. I saw the arch called L'arche de Triomfe - which holds the grave of unknown soldiers. Everything (clothing, food and such) is very expensive - we decided not to buy anything from this area, not even a small snack.
We biked to the Louvre next. So beautiful. It is the biggest museum in the world - we did not go inside because it takes weeks to see the whole museum and hours to get inside. We walked (because biking is not allowed) through the middle courtyard which is covered in beautiful landscaping. Next we stopped for a bite to eat on De Buci at a place called Paul - Notre Carte des beaux jours.
After lunch - which took, no joke, 2 hours (just to first get the wine, but its all good - I am in Europe, relaxation is key) - we biked to the Notre Dame. As usual, beautiful building with impeccable landscaping and hoards of tourists flocking around. Notre Dame is a cathedral in gothic architecture - the intricate details in the windows and ornaments make it truly special. The attention to detail is wonderful.
We drank some wine in front of the Notre Dame, then went back to the hotel for a quick nap, then woke up and had drinks at L'Equipe du Jip's Bar located on the corner of Saint Denis (street of our hotel) and Rue De la Ferronn. Before sleep, we stopped by a small grocer to get a banana and a water. I believe tomorrow is the end of the Tour de France so the streets near Champs Elysees will be crowded. Bon Nuit!
Friday, July 23, 2010
Amsterdam to Paris
The last day we spent in Amsterdam was half relaxing half crazy. We woke up, checked out, had breakfast at the Hotel Old Quarter, and then biked around some more. We met Alexandre from Switzerland - he is traveling alone so we hung out for a couple hours. Alex and us spent time at Coffeshop 36. 36 has an assuming front on a busy street but if you walk through to the back, you reach huge open windows facing the canals-waterways. It was beautiful. We then checked out Hunter's - an interesting coffeeshop that played rap songs - old school and new songs. We returned our bikes, got our luggage, and went to the station in order to catch a train. I am currently writing on my way to Brussels to go to Paris. Exciting times :) Next post will probably be from France.
To the people who want pictures - they are being taken (not too many) but some. I forgot the connector and charger for it so be patient. Thank you for reading. Continue to comment and don't forget to follow the blog!!
To the people who want pictures - they are being taken (not too many) but some. I forgot the connector and charger for it so be patient. Thank you for reading. Continue to comment and don't forget to follow the blog!!
Amsterdam: Day 2
Day 2 of Amsterdam started nicely with lots of biking around Nieuw markt (market). Then we stopped for tea at coffeeshop Hill Street Blues at Nieuw markt. We got a waffle with strawberries and chocolate - with the choclate and strawberries freshly added. Yum yum. For lunch we went to a mini supermarket and bought cheese, bread, salami and wine for 14 euros on Looiersgracht centrum. We ate it on a bench overlooking a waterway. We biked area more, had some tea at Rokery coffeeshop, and then stopped by Rusland coffeeshop. M and I had biked past it many times and finally decided to try it out. It has an interesting location because it is in a seemingly residential area. Dinner was at Cafe Bloemers on Hemonystraat. A very non-touristy area and restaurant. We ended the day at coffeeshop Baba on Warmoestraat. The music was great - which strong beats. The place was packed - people were constantly coming and going! At the corner was a bakeshop called Snack Sweets where we had a waffle with chocolate, cream and a mound of strawberries. Yum! By the time we got back to the hotel, we were exhausted. What a day!
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Amsterdam: Day 1
As soon as I got off the train in Amsterdam, M and I were off. Got straight on the metro (tram) to the Zoo (which is a station). The passes for the metro work in time increments rather than per use. So we got an hour pass. Then we went to the hotel (at 10 am) but the room was not ready so we left our stuff in the lobby and left. We stopped by Blue Bird which is a cool coffeshop; then we started a walk back to central station. On the way we got a bread pastry - delicious. When in the heart of downtown, we went to a coffeshop called The Doors. While there I had a great drink called Looza in the mango flavor (M had banana flavor).
Amsterdam is filled with cars, scooters, bicycles, mopeds, motorcycles, metro, waterways, walking. It is incredible how more accidents don't occur.
Anyways, we walked through the Jewish quarter, passed bridges over waterways, and churches.
Lunch was on Jodenbreestraat at restaurant Orff. I had Sate Ajam, salade and frities (chicken skewers with a peanur butter sauce and fries).
Then we got bikes!! Best choice of the day. The bikes we got were through Amsterdam Mac Bike Bike Rentals - we got the one with a foot pedal break (cheaper). We biked at least 3 hours - all through town - visited the "I Amsterdam" sign. Then we had dinner at restaurant Ocho - a latin grill. We had fajitas, quesedilla, and chocolate cake. After we had tead at The Otherside - a coffeshop right next to Ocho. These two places are located on Reguliersdwarsstraat. The Otherside was really cool with chandeliers throughout the small space.
The day was jam packed! Going to sleep now but more tomorrow :).
Amsterdam is filled with cars, scooters, bicycles, mopeds, motorcycles, metro, waterways, walking. It is incredible how more accidents don't occur.
Anyways, we walked through the Jewish quarter, passed bridges over waterways, and churches.
Lunch was on Jodenbreestraat at restaurant Orff. I had Sate Ajam, salade and frities (chicken skewers with a peanur butter sauce and fries).
Then we got bikes!! Best choice of the day. The bikes we got were through Amsterdam Mac Bike Bike Rentals - we got the one with a foot pedal break (cheaper). We biked at least 3 hours - all through town - visited the "I Amsterdam" sign. Then we had dinner at restaurant Ocho - a latin grill. We had fajitas, quesedilla, and chocolate cake. After we had tead at The Otherside - a coffeshop right next to Ocho. These two places are located on Reguliersdwarsstraat. The Otherside was really cool with chandeliers throughout the small space.
The day was jam packed! Going to sleep now but more tomorrow :).
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Short Update
I am on the train to Amsterdam! Woo hoo, but that is not all... M and I got upgraded to a sleeping wagon!! Instead of attempting to sleep on a little, uncomfortable chair, we are now able to lay down in a bed with the lights off. I now am going to sleep so when I wake up, I will be in Amsterdam. Schlaf Gut!
Leaving in an hour for Amsterdam!
The title of this post says it all - in around one hour M. and I will be embarking on our journey to Amsterdam, which is the first stop on the Eurotrip. But to begin, I will sum up my day. I woke up and had lunch with M's grandparents. We ate Eboli - which is an Italian restaurant. I ate pasta with spicy tomato sauce and veal with potatoes and vegetables. While eating, Mathias Sammer walked in. He played soccer for Dortmund and now he works for the German National team. A couple people shook his hand before he sat down.
After lunch, we walked to a bake shop to pick up some pastries. We had pastries and tea at M's grandparents house, in the backyard. After we came back to the apartment to continue getting ready, finishing some errands and packing. Then we stopped by his uncle's house for a quick goodbye and hang out session.
Now I am having dinner then going to the train station. I will continue blogging everyday to update my loyal fans (ha ha) on my whereabouts and current status. I am certain that the trip will be a success. Pictures will be taken, but if you would like to see them - e-mail or comment.
Next post that is written will be in The Netherlands. Ciao!
After lunch, we walked to a bake shop to pick up some pastries. We had pastries and tea at M's grandparents house, in the backyard. After we came back to the apartment to continue getting ready, finishing some errands and packing. Then we stopped by his uncle's house for a quick goodbye and hang out session.
Now I am having dinner then going to the train station. I will continue blogging everyday to update my loyal fans (ha ha) on my whereabouts and current status. I am certain that the trip will be a success. Pictures will be taken, but if you would like to see them - e-mail or comment.
Next post that is written will be in The Netherlands. Ciao!
Monday, July 19, 2010
Day Before the Traveling Begins
Tomorrow is the first day of traveling (though being in Munich for me is already traveling!). We are going to Amsterdam on a night train, I am extremely excited to begin the part of the trip where we are moving from country to country.
Today was spent bicycling around Munich doing some errands, going to the English Garden, watching M. swim in the English Garden river, lunch, then more walking around Munich before dinner. After lunch we went to downtown Munich - we started at Odeonsplatz (when we got off the Uban). We walked to Marienplatz, on the way we passed Maximilianstrasse and the Opera house. Maximilianstrasse is known for its exclusive boutiques (designer stores) so it is very expensive and elegant. When we got to Marienplatz, we walked around since we had been in the area a couple days before. We passed City Hall which is called Rathaus. Then we went to the Tal - which is the street between Marienplatz and Isartor. Tal is German is a valley so instead of saying I am on Tal, I say I am in Tal; so while in Tal, M. and I sat at a street cafe and had some drinks. Tonight will be spent with M.'s family since we are leaving tomorrow on a 3 week trip.
Today was spent bicycling around Munich doing some errands, going to the English Garden, watching M. swim in the English Garden river, lunch, then more walking around Munich before dinner. After lunch we went to downtown Munich - we started at Odeonsplatz (when we got off the Uban). We walked to Marienplatz, on the way we passed Maximilianstrasse and the Opera house. Maximilianstrasse is known for its exclusive boutiques (designer stores) so it is very expensive and elegant. When we got to Marienplatz, we walked around since we had been in the area a couple days before. We passed City Hall which is called Rathaus. Then we went to the Tal - which is the street between Marienplatz and Isartor. Tal is German is a valley so instead of saying I am on Tal, I say I am in Tal; so while in Tal, M. and I sat at a street cafe and had some drinks. Tonight will be spent with M.'s family since we are leaving tomorrow on a 3 week trip.
Meeting up with a friend from Syracuse in Munich!
Yesterday was a long day. M. and I met up with a friend from Syracuse, Z. Z. came over right after we ate breakfast and joined M.'s family and I (mother, father and brother) to the museum called Pinakothek der Moderne. This museum is dedicated to artwork from the twentieth century and onward. The beginning paintings (by Neo Rauch) we saw were very difficult if not impossible to understand without a guide explaining it. Neo Rauch attempts to point out the idiosyncrasies of government.
After walking through almost the entire exhibit, we all went to lunch at Bei Mario's - which is an Italian restaurant. It is one of the oldest Italian restaurants in Munich, it opened in 1966. The food was incredible, as was the table wine (tafelwein). Then we went for gelato - the place had a line at it which is a good indicator on its popularity.
We parted ways with Z. only to meet back up with him to go to Mocca lounge. Mocca lounge is a hookah bar with Middle Eastern food, drinks and decorations. We had grape hookah, rum drinks, and a platter of appetizers including hummus with bread and baba-ganoush.
It was a nice relaxing day with M.'s family. Z spent a great deal of time speaking with M's father and brother because Babe, his mother and I rode our bikes from place to place while they (Joe, father and brother) walked together. Overall it was a great day and I cannot wait to meet back up with Z in Rome!
After walking through almost the entire exhibit, we all went to lunch at Bei Mario's - which is an Italian restaurant. It is one of the oldest Italian restaurants in Munich, it opened in 1966. The food was incredible, as was the table wine (tafelwein). Then we went for gelato - the place had a line at it which is a good indicator on its popularity.
We parted ways with Z. only to meet back up with him to go to Mocca lounge. Mocca lounge is a hookah bar with Middle Eastern food, drinks and decorations. We had grape hookah, rum drinks, and a platter of appetizers including hummus with bread and baba-ganoush.
It was a nice relaxing day with M.'s family. Z spent a great deal of time speaking with M's father and brother because Babe, his mother and I rode our bikes from place to place while they (Joe, father and brother) walked together. Overall it was a great day and I cannot wait to meet back up with Z in Rome!
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Third Day in Munich
Here is a list of the activities for the day: champagne at M's grandparents house in Gruenwald, lunch at Woernbrunn, relaxing time at M's apartment, then the concert Toto in Beuersbreun.
M's grandparents house is very beautiful and well decorated - with tons of artwork and sculptures throughout the house. Every bedroom has a patio attached (except for one), a feature I loved.
The restaurant was a traditional Bavarian restaurant. I had a drink called Redler which is a mix of beer and lemonade. For the meal I had the duck with blaukraut and shared some wienerschnitzel. For dessert we shared Kaiserschmarrn (which I believe is bread soaked in eggs, cream, and rum with strawberries, vanilla ice cream, and whipped cream on top), needless to say it was scrumptious.
The concert had a downpour of rain throughout the entire performance plus a strong wind which managed to spray rain in your face while holding an umbrella - added to the fact that I did not bring a raincoat or enough umbrellas (for everyone who came to the concert with us tonight). Anyways, the music was great. Wishbone Ash opened up for Toto - the guitarist was amazing. Toto's concert was dedicated to Michael Porcaro because he has a terminal illness. Toto has not played together for a couple years - so it was a real treat to see them. They played Rosanna, 99, Hold the Line, Africa, Pamela, as well as many other songs.
M's grandparents house is very beautiful and well decorated - with tons of artwork and sculptures throughout the house. Every bedroom has a patio attached (except for one), a feature I loved.
The restaurant was a traditional Bavarian restaurant. I had a drink called Redler which is a mix of beer and lemonade. For the meal I had the duck with blaukraut and shared some wienerschnitzel. For dessert we shared Kaiserschmarrn (which I believe is bread soaked in eggs, cream, and rum with strawberries, vanilla ice cream, and whipped cream on top), needless to say it was scrumptious.
The concert had a downpour of rain throughout the entire performance plus a strong wind which managed to spray rain in your face while holding an umbrella - added to the fact that I did not bring a raincoat or enough umbrellas (for everyone who came to the concert with us tonight). Anyways, the music was great. Wishbone Ash opened up for Toto - the guitarist was amazing. Toto's concert was dedicated to Michael Porcaro because he has a terminal illness. Toto has not played together for a couple years - so it was a real treat to see them. They played Rosanna, 99, Hold the Line, Africa, Pamela, as well as many other songs.
Friday, July 16, 2010
Second Day in Munich
Wow. What a day. I am writing to you, sleepy and coming off a little buzz (so keep that in mind while you read this post). Today was long. We rode bikes around the city for 3 hours - from the train station (Hauptbanhof) to part of the "red light district" (located near Bayerstrasse) back to the English Garden. I saw part of a part of the English Garden where there is a wave, yes ONE wave, in which people come to surf. It was super cool - it is called the Eisbach. Then we went back to M's apartment for Cordon Bleu - yum yum.
The rest of the day we hung around, relaxed, drink and ate a little, then went to Ms uncles apartment - which is beautiful. The art surrounding the walls as well as the (once again) openness of the place is very appealing. We had a couple drinks and hung out on his patio.
The rest of the day we hung around, relaxed, drink and ate a little, then went to Ms uncles apartment - which is beautiful. The art surrounding the walls as well as the (once again) openness of the place is very appealing. We had a couple drinks and hung out on his patio.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Munich, Germany!
I am currently in Munich! I got in at 10:10 AM (4:10 AM EST). The flight was good, I met tons of German citizens as well as a Macedonian and a couple American travelers. The plane flight was good other than a touch of turbulence over the ocean. When I got into Munich, M picked me up and took me to his apartment. It is so nice! Everything is so open and the windows seem to be forever open to the world, it is great. The apartment overlooks much of Munich - which is an incredible city.
M took me walking around the city before we went to a Jeff Beck and Joe Bomamassa concert - both of whom are incredible artists. M took me walking through English Garden. The English Garden is filled with unkept shrubbery because the man who created the park based it off of parks in England - which are unkept and more wild. It is very beautiful. There was greenery everywhere as well as nice streams and animals around.
The concert was at the TollWood Festival which is a music festival in the Olympic Park in Munich every summer. There are concerts there throughout the summer as well as random other acts, such as acrobatics. We got to the Bomamassa section late - but what we did hear was great. He played a Led Zeppelin cover - I think Dazed and Confused. Then Jeff came on and was going from cover to cover - for example A day in the Life by the Beatles and a song from The Wizard of Oz. Jeff Beck is a magnificent musician. The music he plays does not use singing all the time because the music it self sings the lyrics to the crowd. Jeff's bass player is a female - who is real good. She can slap the bass (my favorite!).
After the show, we took the Uban which is the subway. The different subway stations are decorated differently. Overall, Munich is a really cool city and I cannot wait to continue exploring it - and updating Riss on Life!
M took me walking around the city before we went to a Jeff Beck and Joe Bomamassa concert - both of whom are incredible artists. M took me walking through English Garden. The English Garden is filled with unkept shrubbery because the man who created the park based it off of parks in England - which are unkept and more wild. It is very beautiful. There was greenery everywhere as well as nice streams and animals around.
The concert was at the TollWood Festival which is a music festival in the Olympic Park in Munich every summer. There are concerts there throughout the summer as well as random other acts, such as acrobatics. We got to the Bomamassa section late - but what we did hear was great. He played a Led Zeppelin cover - I think Dazed and Confused. Then Jeff came on and was going from cover to cover - for example A day in the Life by the Beatles and a song from The Wizard of Oz. Jeff Beck is a magnificent musician. The music he plays does not use singing all the time because the music it self sings the lyrics to the crowd. Jeff's bass player is a female - who is real good. She can slap the bass (my favorite!).
After the show, we took the Uban which is the subway. The different subway stations are decorated differently. Overall, Munich is a really cool city and I cannot wait to continue exploring it - and updating Riss on Life!
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Traveling and Good Music
Nateva was incredible. The music was great. Great atmosphere. Great people.
This past weekend I was at All Good - in West Virginia. Some bands that played there include: The New Deal, Dark Star Orchestra, Donna Jean Godchaux w. Jeff Mattson, Lotus, Bassnectar, Furthur, Cornmeal, Umphrey's McGee, Yonder Mountain String Band, Widespread Panic, Derek Trucks and Susan Tedeschi, Perpetual Groove, George Clinton and PFunk, Keller Williams, and many other bands. All Good was amazing. I LOVED Dark Star, Lotus, FURTHUR, Cornmeal, Umphrey's, Yonder, Derek and Susan, Perpetual Groove, and Keller. Cornmeal is a band I first saw in Syracuse, NY at the Westcott Theatre. They have long jams in their live show that really showcase their talent.
I have a new found love for Grateful Dead and their respective cover bands. Honestly, there are no words to describe how amazing the Dead music is. I feel alive listening to it. The music soaks me up and I lose touch with reality. Then the song ends and I realize I am sitting at a concert venue - it is incredible.
On Wednesday, I will be going Europe - my itinerary is: Munich, Amsterdam, Paris, Barcelona, Monte Carlo, Rome, Tuscany, and then back to Munich. I will try to do updates about the interesting places I visit.
This past weekend I was at All Good - in West Virginia. Some bands that played there include: The New Deal, Dark Star Orchestra, Donna Jean Godchaux w. Jeff Mattson, Lotus, Bassnectar, Furthur, Cornmeal, Umphrey's McGee, Yonder Mountain String Band, Widespread Panic, Derek Trucks and Susan Tedeschi, Perpetual Groove, George Clinton and PFunk, Keller Williams, and many other bands. All Good was amazing. I LOVED Dark Star, Lotus, FURTHUR, Cornmeal, Umphrey's, Yonder, Derek and Susan, Perpetual Groove, and Keller. Cornmeal is a band I first saw in Syracuse, NY at the Westcott Theatre. They have long jams in their live show that really showcase their talent.
I have a new found love for Grateful Dead and their respective cover bands. Honestly, there are no words to describe how amazing the Dead music is. I feel alive listening to it. The music soaks me up and I lose touch with reality. Then the song ends and I realize I am sitting at a concert venue - it is incredible.
On Wednesday, I will be going Europe - my itinerary is: Munich, Amsterdam, Paris, Barcelona, Monte Carlo, Rome, Tuscany, and then back to Munich. I will try to do updates about the interesting places I visit.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Music. Camping. Europe.
Phish - Camden night 2 and both nights of Merriweather.
Nateva - woo hoo. Further, moe., George Clinton and pfunk, Lotus, STS9, Susan Tedeschi and Derek Trucks, Passion Pit, Flaming Lips, Zappa plays Zappa, and many others. I can't wait to see Sunday nights lineup- especially since its on July 4th!!
AllGood is my next weekend after this - I will get to that next week.
Europe - July 14-August 20. More details to come.
Back to the music. Phish gave some great shows. At Camden, there were amazing high points but was clouded by an overall bad energy because the songs were blah. Merriweather showed Phish stepping their game up. It was amazing energy, lots of dancing, great jam sessions, and an overall friendliness among the crowd.
I am soo excited for Nateva. There are only 5000 campers on the main site - there is a free other camp site that, I think, is 30 minutes away. The musical acts I want to see are not overlapping. We (my festival buddies) have prepared the food so there is no work when we are hungry. Ahh can't wait. I am actually on my drive to Maine now!! (Nateva is in Maine).
Nateva - woo hoo. Further, moe., George Clinton and pfunk, Lotus, STS9, Susan Tedeschi and Derek Trucks, Passion Pit, Flaming Lips, Zappa plays Zappa, and many others. I can't wait to see Sunday nights lineup- especially since its on July 4th!!
AllGood is my next weekend after this - I will get to that next week.
Europe - July 14-August 20. More details to come.
Back to the music. Phish gave some great shows. At Camden, there were amazing high points but was clouded by an overall bad energy because the songs were blah. Merriweather showed Phish stepping their game up. It was amazing energy, lots of dancing, great jam sessions, and an overall friendliness among the crowd.
I am soo excited for Nateva. There are only 5000 campers on the main site - there is a free other camp site that, I think, is 30 minutes away. The musical acts I want to see are not overlapping. We (my festival buddies) have prepared the food so there is no work when we are hungry. Ahh can't wait. I am actually on my drive to Maine now!! (Nateva is in Maine).
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