I like to save money when possible so I chose the Trafalgar CostSaver Imperial Highlights package. In ten days I would get exposure to five new countries in a part of Europe that I have never been: Germany, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary and Austria. The price was $1591.25 (I saved 5% since I'm a previous guest) and I booked the airfare myself through Air Canada. The main differences between booking with Trafalgar and CostSaver is the hotels and meal inclusions.
Day 1: Arrive Munich
My Day 1 actually began the day before this. Fights to Europe are often over night and the time change is six hours ahead. My direct flight from Toronto to Munich was just over seven hours. I left Toronto before 7 p.m. and landed in Munich around 8 a.m. The flight was very good but I cannot sleep on an airplane so I was quite tired. I had to then wait for about two hours for my transportation to the hotel. We all met the Tour Director, Rob, as he debriefed us on our great adventure ahead. I had a couple of hours to rest in the hotel before our city tour, but for some reason my body didn't want to sleep. During the walking tour of Munich Rob pointed out the famous Hofbrauhaus (16th century 3 floor beer hall), Marienplatz (Munich's central square) and the site of the infamous Hitler Putsch (On November 8–9, 1923, Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party led a coalition group in an attempt to overthrow the German government - www.ushmm.org/wlc/en/article.php?ModuleId=10007884). I had some free time to try out the local cuisine for dinner (at the Ratskeller Munchen Marienplatz Restaurant) and of course a pretzel, as well as a little shopping.
Marienplatz
A dark part of history
Dinner is served!
Ratskeller Restaurant
Yum!
German beer is a must!
Day 2: Munich to Prague
On our way to Prague, Czech Republic we made a lunch stop in Regensburg. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Regensburg is a lovely German medieval town. Since I had little time to see or do much in Munich, I thought that Regensburg was considerably nicer. As per Google, "Regensburg, a Bavarian city on the Danube River in southeast Germany, is known for its well-preserved medieval core. The 12th-century Stone Bridge, a 310m-long icon with 16 arches, crosses the river to the old town. The 13th-century Regensburg Cathedral, a twin-spired Gothic landmark, is home to the Regensburger Domspatzen choir." Rob pointed out the major sites including St. Peter's Cathedral, the Stone Bridge, and the Golden Tower.
Danube River
St. Peter's Cathedral
Old Town
Panoramic views of Prague
This guy sure knows how to rock an accordion!
I did not try the pork knee.
These photos were taken from the Charles Bridge.
Day 3: Prague Day
Each morning on a Trafalgar tour is an early one. Bags must be out of your room by 7 a.m., eat breakfast, and the coach leaves at 8 a.m. This morning our local specialist gave us a city tour of the Castle District and Old Town. I enjoyed the Prague Castle and being informed about Prague's history in WWII.
These are the actual bullet holes.
These are photos of the Prague Castle. It dates from the 9th century and is now the office of the President of the Czech Republic.
St. Vitus Cathedral
After the tour we were given some free time before a Scenic Vltava Cruise with Lunch and Drinks (another optional excursion I purchased). Prague was extremely busy due to a marathon they were hosting. I really needed somewhere peaceful and quiet for my brief break. Along a narrow quaint street I found an absintherie. To be honest, I've never tried absinthe and had no idea that such a place existed. I just HAD to try it. The bartender suggested to try Beetle since it was on the more gentler side. The process involved fire and sugar. It was fascinating to watch. How did it taste? The first sip wasn't too awful. However, each sip afterwards was pretty terrible. If I believed that the Canadian Border Services would allow it I would've brought some "interesting" kinds back home.
This is the one I sampled.
The absinthe is poured into the metal cup and over the sugar cube on the spoon. The sugar is lit on fire and melts the sugar into the drink.
Are they for real?
Now it was time for the Scenic Vltava Cruise with Lunch. The Vltava River is Czech's longest river with panoramic views of the Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the National Theatre to name a few. Lunch was buffet style featuring some of Czech's famous hot and cold items, a welcome drink, and two other drinks of your choice (I chose the local beer). From the boat the Prague sights were very fetching, but the food - not so much. I guess that's why I've never heard anyone with a grumbling stomach say, "Man, I'm craving Czech food!"
Welcome drink
After the cruise I had an evening to relax at the hotel before the next day's journey from Prague to Budapest.
Day 4: Prague to Budapest with a lunch stop in Bratislava, Slovakia
Rob labeled today as the "3 Currency Day". The currency in Czech Republic is the koruna or crown. In Slovakia, same as Germany and Austria, it is the euro. And, in Hungary they use the Hungarian forint.
By this point in the trip I was starting to feel like each consecutive place was increasingly beautiful. Munich was a bit of a disappointment so I was getting quite excited for the two new cities and countries to explore today.
We left Prague and made our way towards Budapest with a lunch stop in Bratislava, Slovakia. Unfortunately, I didn't have much time to see many sights in Bratislava but I'd much rather see some than none at all. What I did see was very picturesque and charming.
Bratislava Castle
Don't trust this guy.
After approximately six hours of driving on the coach, we finally arrived in Budapest! This place really blew my mind. Before stopping at the hotel we were given a photo opportunity that overlooked the entire city.
This evening I chose an excursion called Danube Cruise with Dinner. They say that Budapest is "The Paris of the East" and spectacular at night. I couldn't miss this opportunity.
The event began with a late hotel pick up close to dusk. We set sail on a private boat on the Danube beginning with a buffet dinner featuring many famous Hungarian dishes. Once dinner was complete (the food was actually pretty good this time, by the way) and the night sky had enveloped the city, we went to the top deck to take in the phenomenal vistas. As a note of interest, Katy Perry's "Fireworks" video was shot in Budapest. After witnessing this stunning city at night I completely understand why.
Following this magical evening on the Danube, I was really psyched to see the city the next morning on our Budapest day tour.
Day 5: Budapest Day
The day began with a city tour by our excellent local specialist. She explained the fascinating history and culture of her city. We were shown some of the best sights in Buda and Pest including the Hungarian State Opera House, Museum of Fine Arts, House of Terror, Hero's Square, and my favourite - the Castle District featuring the Fisherman's Bastion, Matthias Church and spectacular views of the Danube and skyline of Pest. The coach stopped twice for photo opportunities and a bit of free time to explore in Hero's Square and the Castle District. I chose to spend my free time examining Matthias Church.
Opera House
House of Terror
Hero's Square
Museum of Fine Arts
City Park
Fisherman's Bastion
Castle Hill
This is a photo of our tour group for the trip.
Matthias Church
All of the following photos were on display inside the church.
Goulash demonstration
Paprika
Secret gift box!
Afterwards, I decided against an excursion called Hungarian and Gypsy Folklore Show and Dinner and instead took advantage of the free time to further explore Castle Hill which happened to be in walking distance of the hotel.
Castle Hill is very beautiful and fairytale-like. I absolutely love castles and their magical ambiance. During the day tour I had time to check out the church. This evening's agenda involved much more. First, I tried to go to the Labyrinth of Buda Castle but they would not accept credit cards and I unfortunately didn't have enough forint. Second, I went to the Fisherman's Bastion and climbed to the top for exceptional views of the Danube and Pest. Next, I found the Buda Tower and climbed its many steps to the top. My last stop was set for the Buda Castle but a terrible thunder storm erupted and I had to take quick cover under a bridge. After waiting out the storm I was done for the night.
Labyrinth of Buda Castle
Fisherman's Bastion
From the top of the Fisherman's Bastion
What a view of the Hungarian Parliament Building!
Buda Tower
Buda Castle
The House of Houdini - I'm not sure where I'd disappear to if that door closed on me.
Day 6: Budapest to Vienna, Austria
On this rare morning we were given two options, sleep in and have the day begin a bit later or take the excursion to visit the Hungarian Parliament and Gundel restaurant. To me, the Parliament Building looked more like a castle than the actual Buda Castle so I was totally in. I've never heard of the Gundel restaurant so that was simply an added bonus.
"The Parliament Building is modelled after Westminster, but the Hungarians went a step further with this one. This is opulence and some. You will see the crown jewels also known as the Coronation Crown of St. Stephen. Included in this trip is a visit later to the world famous Gundel Restaurant, which has played host to Pope John Paul II, Queen Elizabeth II, Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, Madonna, Hillary Clinton and more" (COSTSAVER Your Day by Day).
Once inside the Hungarian Parliament Building people are given guided tours that last approximately 45 minutes. I tried my best to enjoy the tour, however I found it difficult with the number of tourists in our group. Overall, this place is elegant both inside and out and has a fascinating history.
The raising of the flag
For the gentlemen's cigars
At this point we left Budapest and began our journey to Vienna, Austria. We made a lunch stop in Gyor which was the final Hungarian visit before entering Austria.
After about 3 hours traveling by coach I had arrived in Vienna. I opted out of the evening's excursion to experience a Viennese Concert and Dinner. Sometimes you opt out to save money while other times it's for a mental break from the group. When you opt out you get free time. My evening plan was to check out the Sigmund Freud Museum which happened to be within walking distance of the hotel.
I've always been fascinated with psychology and made it my Bachelor of Arts major. It's one thing to read about such prominent people in a text book, however it's on a whole new level when you have the opportunity to retrace their actual footsteps in history.
"In the house at Berggasse 19, Sigmund Freud established his medical practice in 1891. He worked and lived on these premises for 47 years, until he was forced to flee to London from Nazi-reigned Vienna. Today, the Sigmund Freud Museum presents an exhibition documenting the life and work of the founder of psychoanalysis. Unique film material, the office's waiting room, the original rooms and objects provide an idea of the surroundings in which Freud developed the science of psychoanalysis. (Sigmund Freud Museum)"
I thoroughly enjoy museums of all kinds and this one did not disappoint. The following photos were taken at the museum.
Day 7: Vienna Day
More castles! This morning I took an excursion to visit the Palace of Schonbrunn, home to Austria's most famous matriarch Queen Maria Theresa. Trafalgar states, "The Imperial Summer Palace of Schonbrunn offers an amazing journey through the centuries of Hapsburg rule. It is perfectly preserved and richly decorated with treasures from around the globe. Each room has a story to tell, so of course you'll have a Local Specialist to bring it to life and VIP entrance to make the most of your time." Boy, they know how to sell it. Don't they? Although, I have to agree with Trafalgar. The Palace truly was a spectacular sight and the information given was most interesting.
The Palace Gardens
Subsequent to the excursion our group was given a city tour of Vienna including the Parliament, Opera, Hofburg, and City Hall. Vienna is yet another beautiful European city to add to the list.
Schonbrunn Palace is the Summer Palace, whereas this is the Winter Palace of Prince Eugene.
Cafe Central was established in 1876 and has served as an intellectual meeting place of some of the world's most famous/infamous people including Trotsky, Freud, Hitler and Stalin. I had a delicious coffee and sampling of desserts here. Once you see SOME of the photos of treats to choose from you'll understand why I couldn't pick just one.
After filling my belly with sugar and caffeine, I was off to check out the Mozarthaus Vienna which was Mozart's residence from 1784 to 1787 and now serves as a museum. "At Domgasse 5 is the only surviving apartment in Vienna inhabited by Mozart. It was while he lived there from 1784 to 1787 that he composed one of his most well known operas The Marriage of Figaro. Today, the four floors of Mozarthaus Vienna present extensive information about Mozart with a particular focus on his years in Vienna" (Mozarthaus Vienna).
Personally, I didn't care much for this museum. I found the setup to be confusing and lacked any sensible order, plus the information given was drab.
Day 8: Vienna to Salzburg
On this morning we left Vienna and drove along the Wachau Valley towards Salzburg. Google states, "The Wachau Valley is an Austrian region near the Danube River, west of Vienna. It’s known for its rolling hills, vineyards and fortresses. Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned in the castle above the town of Dürnstein. Highlights of nearby Gottweig Abbey include its lavish baroque church and views across the valley. Melk Abbey is a vast monastery also with an opulent baroque church."
Hours on a coach can be very monotonous, so this valley drive really was a pretty treat. In the photos to follow you will see vineyards, a dilapidated castle and the Melk Abbey.
Group photo!
We made a lunch stop off the highway that had a beautiful view, but the food and service were terrible. That's another disadvantage to being on a tour bus. If you want to eat you better do so when and where they take you. Otherwise, who knows when the next opportunity will arise. This goes the same for toilet breaks. There is a toilet on the coach, however it is for EMERGENCIES only.
The lunch stop view
Mirabell Gardens
Mozart's birthplace
Pretzel varieties
Hohensalzburg Castle: 11th century fortress on the hilltop
The easy way up/down the castle by cable railway, which was my method of travel. This place was amazing in every way!
City views of Salzburg from the castle's hilltop
I think a little piece of my soul dies each time I wait in a line.
This castle was huge! It was like a mini city in itself.
Views of the Alps
Rob suggested this local drink. I preferred the beer.
And back down we go on the cable railway.
Day 9: Salzburg to Berchtesgaden to Munich
Day 9 was pretty much the last day of the tour because Day 10 was the trip back home. I was excited for this morning on account of my excursion to the Eagle's Nest Tour and Bavarian Alps!
Before leaving Salzburg we enjoyed the beautiful breakfast view. Even the drive to Berchtesgaden National Park offered scenic vistas.
Hotel breakfast views
That's the castle I explored the day before.
Views of villages and farmhouses along the drive
This area was also used in the filming of The Sound of Music.
Berchtesgaden National Park is actually in southern Germany near the Austrian border. This is where The Eagle's Nest is located. Kehlsteinhaus, or Eagle's Nest as it's referred to in English, was built as a retreat for Hitler on the summit of Kehlstein mountain. The story behind Kehlsteinhaus is a very fascinating one. I'll give you a snippet from Wikipedia: "The Kehlsteinhaus (known as the Eagle's Nest in English-speaking countries) is a Third Reich-era building erected atop the summit of the Kehlstein, a rocky outcrop that rises above the Obersalzberg near the town of Berchtesgaden. It was used exclusively by members of the Nazi Party for government and social meetings. It was visited on 14 documented instances by Adolf Hitler, who disliked the location due to his fear of heights, the risk of bad weather, and the thin mountain air. Today it is open seasonally as a restaurant, beer garden, and tourist site. The Kehlsteinhaus sits on a ridge atop the Kehlstein, a 1,834 m (6,017 ft) subpeak of the Hoher Göll that rises above the town of Berchtesgaden. It was commissioned by Martin Bormann in the summer of 1937. Paid for by the Nazi Party, it was completed in 13 months. Hitler first visited on September 16, 1938, and returned on April 20, 1939, for its formal presentation as a gift for his fiftieth birthday. A 4 m (13 ft) wide approach road climbs 800 m (2,600 ft) over 6.5 km (4.0 mi). Costing RM 30 million to build (about 150 million inflation-adjusted euros in 2007), it includes five tunnels but only one hairpin turn. Today the building is owned by a charitable trust, and serves as a restaurant offering indoor dining and an outdoor beer garden. It is a popular tourist attraction to those who are attracted by the historical significance of the "Eagle's Nest". The road has been closed to private vehicles since 1952 because it is too dangerous, but the house can be reached on foot (in two hours) from Obersalzberg, or by bus from the Documentation Center there.The buses have special modifications to take on a slight angle, as the steep road leading to the peak is too steep for regular vehicles."
Another advantage to being a Trafalgar tour member is that you get access to these extremely busy tourist attractions before the general public. There is a process one must take to get to the Eagle's Nest. 1) Buy your ticket. 2) Take the bus up with winding road to the tunnel. 3) Walk through the tunnel to the elevator. 4) Take the elevator to the summit. Of course all of these steps involve waiting in line-ups. We were fortunate enough to have our tickets handed to us as we boarded the bus and waited almost no time for the elevator. This was definitely not the case for the countless tourists I saw when we were leaving the sight at approximately 10:45 a.m. Our local specialist informed us that the people on Bus 2 would have a one hour wait in the tunnel just for the elevator! I'm so happy we didn't have to endure that gong show.
You will see from the photos that the Eagle's Nest is an absolutely spectacular sight. Rich in history and a natural wonder, this place is not to be missed!
The elevator is at the end of the tunnel.
The once Nazi retreat that is now a restaurant and outdoor beer garden.
My voucher for an included ice cream or souvenir.
The summit's local entertainment?
Yes, there's still snow up there in May.
After the historical visit, it was time for lunch in the Bavarian town of Berchtesgaden. Another beautifully quaint European setting with further views of the Alps, I had just enough time to eat and do a little window shopping. Trying to eat healthy, I ordered what I thought to be a simple sandwich (ham and cheese) and side salad. Well, I dare to find a person who has EVER had a ham and cheese sandwich in their lifetime with more cheese than this one had. It was as if they had placed the entire package of sliced cheese between the ham and bread! I'm not complaining. Don't get me wrong. It was just excessive, but very tasty.
Bavarian Clothing:
Authentic (and expensive) lederhosen
And for the ladies, perhaps a dirndl?
On our way back to Munich for the final night of the journey, we were promised a "little surprise". Any guesses? Well, it was brief stop at the BMW buildings in Munich. They have a huge sales showroom/building on one side of the street and a museum on the other joined by a walking bridge. To be honest, I would have rather been dropped off at the hotel instead of spending money to kill time here. I like cars, but come on!
Offered this evening was a Farewell Optional Dinner that I kindly declined. It was really nice to have the night free to get everything packed up and organized for the long trip home to Toronto the next morning.
Day 10: Munich to Toronto
There isn't much to report for this day. Most of the group was dropped off before noon at the airport to return to their home countries of the U.S., Malaysia, Singapore, Australia, England, and Canada. My flight home was as smooth sailing (or flying) as it was eastbound. I regained the time difference lost upon arrival in Toronto, but it took me several days or more to shake off the jet lag again. In fact, one night I awoke not knowing where I was. That's the price you pay for being a traveler. It was totally worth it though.
When you add up all the pros and cons of a Trafalgar Tour such as this, only you will know if it's for you or not. I definitely find some aspects to be intolerable. But, the good override the bad. Any opportunity life gives you that allows for travel and experience you should take it. See and do as much as possible. I strongly believe that life is to be lived - work hard, play hard, experiment, read, write, welcome growth, and share world's experiences with someone you love. Rob concluded the tour with these wise words, "A person who has not traveled is a person who has not lived."
All Good Things Must Come to an End
This will be my final post for quite some time as my year off has come to an end. I've already begun organizing and getting my head back in the game. It will certainly be a difficult transition, but I know it's time. I have been so very blessed with the amount of travel that I have accomplished in such a short timespan - 11 countries in 7 months! No wonder I wake up not knowing where I am. Travel is addictive. People often ask me, "Where was your favourite?" or "What did you like best?" I can never choose one. My best answer is this, "I can tell you my favourite activity from each country or my favourite city during a trip." For example, my favourite city of this Imperial Europe tour was Budapest. My favourite activity in Costa Rica was canyoning. My favourite rollercoaster in Orlando was the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit. And, then there's the trip of a lifetime back in October and November (which seems like a lifetime ago now) to Fiji, Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti and Bora Bora. I loved the beach in Fiji with its beautiful blue starfish. In Cairns, I loved holding a live teddy bear (koala bear) and petting a kangaroo. No trip to the French Polynesia is complete without a stay in Bora Bora in an overwater bungalow. That was for sure a major highlight for me.
All in all, each destination has changed me somewhat. I would like to think that I am now an enriched version of myself. I'm not sure where to go next, but the world is a large place with so much more to see and do. Don't assume that what you have now will be there tomorrow. Take advantage of each day. Set achievable goals, tackle your fears, and LIVE LIFE TO THE FULLEST!
