Magic Moments
Just a few magic moments in a trip can make it a success in your mind for the rest of your life. The moon rising over the Jungfrau...being alone at your own private Stonehenge...feeling Celtic pride well up in your non-Celtic soul after hours of traditional music in an Irish pub...meeting your "Old World" relatives for the first time. Do you have a favorite magic moment from your European experience?
- Please don't post questions here. Use our Travelers Helpline.
Wake up. It's Paris.
It is such a fantastic feeling: First, I'm in a nondescript airport in Chicago. I get into a nondescript airplane, arrive at another nondescript airport, get on a nondescript train (RER), pull into a nondescript train station, climb a few stairs and—voila!—I'm walking down Boulevard St. Michel at dawn on a Sunday, just after a rain. The sun is beginning to shine, and I have a huge smile on my face as I walk along the Seine to my hotel. I have been to Paris several times, but I'm still always amazed at the feeling I get when I come out of the RER.
Carol
Chicago, USA 11/13/2008
Never Been There, Feels Like Home
The first time I set foot in Ireland, walking through the customs screening area in Dublin felt like coming home after being away for a long time. Yes, I'm of Irish ancestry. We think my ancestors emigrated during the 1860's and I've never seen photos of the family in Ireland. How can one feel so connected to someplace they have never been and only seen pictures of in National Geographic? Maybe it's a Druid thing?
Terry <email>
Sparks, NV USA 10/31/2008
Workers' Museum (Arbejdermuseet), Copenhagen, Denmark
My late husband was born and reared in Copenhagen. We married there and lived in a typical Dansk apartment in the early 60s (before moving to Queensland, Australia).
In the early 80s the Workers' Museum (Arbejdermuseet) in Copenhagen was opened. It is one of the best places to both visit and eat at in Copenhagen.
After walking through 150 years of Danish culture, both work and habitat, you can dine at the Café (a typical Dansk restaurant from the early years) in the same building for a very reasonable price. The food and traditional beer are delightful. And, you'll more fully appreciate the cuisine after visiting the Museum itself.
I never go back to Denmark (Danmark) without a visit here: http://www.arbejdermuseet.dk/UK/Cafe/cafe_oelhalle/default.asp?menu=4
Don't miss it!
Patricia Oates <email>
Baton Rouge, LA USA 10/25/2008
Moment of Grace in Venice
We had spent our first full day in Italy getting blissfully lost in the streets of Venice, before joining our RS group the next day. After roughly 9 hours of non-stop walking and picture-taking, the sun was setting and the locals were out for their evening stroll. My husband was approached by a street vendor selling roses, and purchased two for me. As we walked along we saw a very elderly couple walking ahead of us, arm in arm, all dressed up. They looked so precious, on impulse I stepped in front of them and held out one of the roses. The woman's eyes flew open, she looked at her husband, then back at me and said, "Grazie! Grazie! Mille grazie!" She then held up six fingers followed by two more and said "anno" (years) - it was their 62nd anniversary! What a priceless moment of sweet grace for all of us. I took their picture, and it will forever be one of my favorite moments in Italy. What a way to begin our tour.
Mary Kay <email>
Ellensburg, WA USA 10/04/2008
Magical Moments
Its hard to pick just some....(in no order)
1. Eating Gelato at sunset on our last night in Italy
2. Walking through Rome to the Vatican at 6AM, after the worst night of my life in a sketchy "pension house." Hearing a horses hooves clip clopping echoing through the empty streets of Rome while standing alone at the Spanish Steps.
3. Robert Burns Night in the Western Highlands after one of the most challenging hikes of my life, hearing the "address to the haggis" in Gaelic said by a true Scotsman
4. Dancing "Strip the willow" with my flatmate at a Ceilidh
5. Watching fireworks from the Military Tatoo in Edinburgh from my bedroom window
6. Watching the sun set over Berick Upon Tweed on my way back to Edinburgh last Easter
7. Successfully navigating Geneva by myself and emerging from the United Nations building to the sun shining after it had been raining all day.
8. Riding up Braid's Hill on a clear February late afternoon and gazing at the view from the top.
Emma <email>
Edinburgh , UK 09/07/2008
Sarajevo: a chance meeting in a cemetery
May of 2008. We were visiting Sarajevo. Whilst I was planning our trip I had downloaded a photo of Sarajevo from just above Kovaci cemetery.
The Guesthouse we booked just happened to be near this cemetry so we visited on our first day.
We wandered around the cemetery trying to take it all in and while doing so , a man and his young son were paying attention to a particular grave. I said ( and gestured) " family"......" yes"......It was his brother who had obviously been a victim of the war. He gestured me around to see the name: Samir. he pointed to his young toddler son......" Samir"....
We spent an hour or more with this man and his son. He took us up above the cemetry and pointed to distant white-streaked fields. More cemeteries.
We 'talked' for over the hour. He was explaining the war and describing his city.
He had no English and we had no Bosnian yet it became clear that he wanted us to see the diversity of religion and ethnicity that had always existed in his city. We shall never forget that hour and hopefully we shall learn to understand it's meaning.
Frank <email>
Galway, Ireland 09/03/2008
Rouen
My magical moment was on a Normandy trip. We stayed the first night in Rouen at the Cathedral hotel. All I wanted to see was the Rouen Cathedral that Monet had painted over and over.
My husband was buying something in a small shop and I saw this poster. I asked the shop keeper about it and we were amazed.
Now, I know it is a touristy thing to do. But is was magical. There is a light show each night at dark where they light up the cathedral to look like Monet and Lichenstein paintings. In all my travels it is my favorite thing among so many.
AND it was FREE!
Sue
Springfield, VA USA 08/15/2008
Paris for the Millenium
Like many people, in the year prior to the millenium, I was often asked, "Where would you like to experience the millenium?" I would always automatically respond, "Paris." After a while I asked myself, "Well, why don't you go? You've got plenty of time to plan."
I made my reservations and a German friend joined me in Paris. On New Year's Eve we sat on a doorstep for hours directly across the river from the Eiffel Tour. When the fireworks were finally underway, I remember saying to my friend, "As long as I live I'll never see anything this beautiful."
Jude <email>
Berkeley, CA USA 08/15/2008
Magic Moments in Paris
My most amazing moment, actually I have two. My daughter and I have always been fans of the Degas ballerinas. We have several "cheap" replicas throught our house. When I came upon the prototype at the Muse D'Orsay, I seemed to have glued myself to the case and stared for what seemed like hours! Needless to say, I took a picture and had it blown up and framed when I returned to the States.
The second "awe" moment was when I saw the Eiffel Tower light up for the first time. It was my second day in Paris and I had yet to visit the Tower. I happened to be walking on Pont Neuf when I looked to my left and saw it lit up like a Christmas Tree. I immediately called my mother back home and the first thing she asked me was "what it looked like"? I told her through misty eyes, it was undescribable.
ddw
Houston, Texas USA 08/07/2008
Hadrians Wall/Greenhead
On a tour of Britian in the early 90's I was alone and backpacking. One day I headed out for Hadrian's Wall starting at Homesteads and spent the day roaming about the wall for what seemed like forever. I finally came into a small village of Greenhead where I checked into the well appointed hostel shed my pack and had lasagna and some crumpy at the local Inn. I slept like a baby that night. The next morning as I waited at the bus station to connect to the rail I munched on a juicy apple as the sun washed over me. At that moment I felt as good as I ever have. I was happy to be alive and on the road.
Steve
Big Eagle , KY USA 07/29/2008
Singing in Salzburg
I've had several, but one that stands out happened in Salzburg. There were about 20 of us in an upstairs room with the mountain as a ceiling at St. Peter's Stifftskellar Restaurant (wonderful restaurant, if you haven't been), and we were in the middle of a fabulous lunch. At that point, about 15-20 Gypsies were seated at the other set of tables and as such, our two groups comprised the entire room.
We finished up lunch with the Salzburger Knockerel (absolutely worth every cent). During an after-lunch drink, the Gypsies had finished their meal as well. Then, a once-in-a-lifetime moment occurred, because as soon as they were done, they began to sing - not out of some 'sing-for-your-supper" deal, but just out of the sheer joy and ebullience at having had a wonderful meal.
A wonderful meal capped by a sincere round of singing in a beautiful setting.
Doesn't get any better.
cmason <email>
Georgetown, TX USA 07/26/2008
I stayed at a hostel, I think in Inverness, last summer. One night I came back from a pub a few minutes before my friends and joined a small crowd of folks listening to man playing guitar and singing folk songs. After being invited, I sat down to play also. In the end, we spent several hours trading american and scottish folk songs. I still remember it as a 'magic moment' and a privilege.
Teacrimes
Worcester, MA USA 07/03/2008
Where have you been for the last 100 years?
Our Magic Moment: After my mother died, my Dad and I took a family roots trip to Sweden in 1997. Our last name is very unusal and my Dad always looked in the phone book when we were kids to locate any long lost relatives. Never found any. Armed with one name and a street address in the little town of Hudiksvall (3 hrs N of Stockholm on the Baltic Sea)- we started in Stockholm to look for family records. Nothing.
We took the train to Hudiksvall and went to the local church..only to be told the records for the area had all been moved four hours north.
I was frustrated...but not my Dad...we went back to the hotel. In our room, my Dad decides to look in the phone book...Well, there were two listings for individuals with our last name!
Dad called one of them (his cousin) and they hung up on him. So we engaged the help of the hotel staff who called for us. We ended up meeting Bengt (age 50) and Pers (age 80) and had such a wonderful time!
There is much much more to the story but we have gone back several times [as recent as this last month :)] and visited four sets of cousins, had a family reunion (100 people showed up) with a photo in the local paper.
Beth <email>
Sacramento, CA USA 06/28/2008
Swiss Rainbow
We were in the Swiss Alps in May, specifically in Murren at the Hotel Alpina on our patio facing the Jungfrau. It was our last night there and it was a bit overcast from the earlier rain. Suddenly before our eyes was the most amazing end to end rainbow we have ever seen over the mountains (and the biggest!)!
Ali
Newton, MA USA 06/27/2008
Impressionists at the D'Orsay
All of us have seen posters and pictures in books of the many famous Impressionist paintings. My Magic Moment was the first time I saw my favorite Renoir painting "in person" at the Musee D'Orsay in Paris, May 2005. Goosebumps and tears were the results (and I'm not usually a publicly emotional person). I've re-visited the painting (and the many others) on several return trips to my favorite city.
Holly
Durham, NC USA 06/23/2008
Daughter takes over
My 19-year-old daughter was taking no responsibility for our one-month trip in the UK and France and letting me manage all the arrangements. She showed no interest in assisting me. Finally I made her buy a card for her cell phone in Paris all by herself (she doesn't speak French). She had to negotiate the purchase with a sales clerk and then fill out a substantial form with another clerk. It was a complex process (I had already done it).
After she successfully accomplished that, I suddenly couldn't do anything right without her assistance, and she insisted on managing arrangements for the remainder of the trip.
J. Sinclair
Vallejo, CA USA 06/19/2008
A Great Paris Park
When you're in Paris, in search of something great, off the beaten path, don't miss a wonderful park up in the 19th Arrondissment: Parc de Buttes Charmont. Perhaps the most beautiful urban park I've seen anywhere, it's filled (particularly on Sundays) with families and individuals of all types, enjoying the amazing scenery-- small mountains, gazebos, a lake and much more. Don't fail to experience it; it's easy to get to via the Buttes Charmont metro stop.
Paul J. Morris <email>
Oradell, NJ USA 06/02/2008
Metro Mishap
My entire family were in Paris and about to take the Metro for the first time. I had finished lecturing my Niece and Nephew (ages 5 and 8) on staying together and making sure everyone gets on the train. I was hearding everyone on the train when the doors closed with me on the wrong side. The looks on their faces as the train pulled away was priceless. I hopped on the next train and met them at our stop. Needless to say, Uncle Bruce (UB) caught a lot of flack for that one!!
Bruce
Everett , Wa USA 05/27/2008
Banos Arabes in Sevilla
Three years ago I studied in Sevilla, Spain for 6 weeks during the summer. I had left my fiance at home, so by the end of the term, I was homesick and stressed about final exams. My friends and I decided to go the Banos Arabes (Arabic Baths) the night before finals to relax a little. I knew the Banos were kind of like a spa, but I had no idea that I was going to be able to drink herbal tea, sit in a sauna, and swim around in whole ROOMS of warm water for an hour and half. When we left, my muscles were so relaxed that I could barely wobble to the nearest taxi. It was a fantastic way to end my time in Spain. Best 18 euros I ever spent.
Emily
Gainesville, FL USA 05/06/2008
Kidding with local kids
I'm a teacher and I love talking with kids. On our recent trip to Europe, I had 2 fun experiences with this.
The first was on the train between Antwerp and Bruges. 2 young kids sat down across from me...turned out they spoke only Flemish! Their Mom was nearby and she said it was okay for me to talk with the kids (she spoke some English). Soon we all were laughing like crazy as the kids tried to teach me some Flemish.
The other was on a crowded tram in Amsterdam. A young mom got on with a little guy about 4. He sat down on the step beside me and started playing with a plastic toy dinosaur.
It wasn't long before he was making the dinosaur chew on my leg, my ankle, my fingers, etc. and I pretended to be in agony and horror. Not a word between us, but we sure had a good time! (And Mom was grinning, so I guess she didn't mind.)
Margaret
USA 05/02/2008
Use Other Languages
Don't speak only English, USE the languages you studied before travel. Our best memories have often arisen bcuz we engaged locals in THEIR languages. We gave directions to a Spanish woman lost in Rome- and shared an espresso and pastry w her. I talked about the weather with a ferryman on Lago Como and about a proud mamma's son, the chef from San Fran, in Menaggio. In Germany, we passed the time on trains by talking to seatmates in German. Sure,we halted and often couldnt find the right words, but people happily helped and sometimes slid into English for the nonce. It is the best way (short of playing w babies or appreciating dogs) of making friends fast and memories last.
Paul n Sara <email>
Newburyport, MA USA 04/23/2008
wild train ride
my wife and i are taking the train from chiusi to naples(4 hrs). we go to our car and we have the 2 middle seats facing each other. 2 italian woman facing each other and 2 italian men facing each other. all of a sudden the lady to my left starts speaking to the other lady. after an hour of non stop chatter from her i ask if anyone spoke english. the guy next to me said "a little", so he starts translating all of the conversation in the train car. this lady did not stopping talking to all of us the whole 4 hours. we were all laughing and in tears and having a great time. it was like we became friends for those 4 hours on that train ride. we ended up getting a group picture and saying our good-byes. it is something we will never forget. :):)
bruce <email>
sauk rapids, mn USA 04/18/2008
From heartbreak to lucky break
After having our daypack stolen from the reception desk at our hostel in Prague, (containing our camera, rail-passes, and all souvenirs from the past 3 weeks of our first European vacation), we pressed onto Vienna to continue our adventure. We were pretty heartbroken and depressed over what had been lost, but we still had our passports, clothing and wallets.
Both being music majors, we randomly stumbled across the ticket kiosk for the Vienna Philharmonic. Lucky enough, there was a concert that same day, but another American couple in front of us in line was debating whether to buy the last two tickets. One was standing room, the other behind the orchestra. For some silly reason, they decided they didn't want to spend 20 Euro to buy the more expensive seat, and we ended up seeing the Vienna Phil!!! We're both horn players, and we were certainly pleased to discover our seat behind the orchestra was literally behind the horn section! We switched seats at intermission. : )
Bobbi
WI USA 04/11/2008
CA
In early March we spent two lovely weeks in Florence and Venice. Our return trip included a 10 hour all night layover at CDG (don't ask). Not wanting to spend loads of cash on a room for what would turn out to be just a few hours, my husband and I decided to catch the train into town. We have been to Paris a few times so felt comfortable in this adventure. We were going to see the Eiffel Tower all lit up from the Pont Neuf, the spot we first saw it on our honeymoon. Well we did! It was, as usual, incredible. But it was also 34 degrees and after midnight. And we are from Florida and not used to the cold. We did not last long before we went looking for a late night bistro were we sat over cafe creme watching a French version of MTV for two hours. Then we went to our favorite internet point off St. Michel which is open all night. We stayed warm and caught up on our web surfing for 3 hours. Then we caught the first train of the morning back to CDG. Sounds like hell, right? Non! Two weeks later we are still laughing about our silly night in Paris. We will always have our silly night in Paris! A magical but silly night in Paris.
FL USA 04/02/2008
Ste. Chapelle
Often the most memorable travel moments have been when things DIDN'T go according to plan.
In Paris, we went into Ste. Chapelle with no expectations. (For some reason, I hadn't read up on this site in advance.) Inside, the building was dark and not especially interesting. We were just about to leave when I noticed a small spiral staircase at the back. I went up the cramped, winding stairs and stepped out into the most breathtaking expanse of sunlight filtering through stained glass I've ever seen in my life. The color and light were all around me and were so overwhelming I literally could not catch my breath for the beauty of it, all the more so for being unexpected.
This occurred more than 35 years ago and is still as vivid in my memory as the day it occurred.
Lee Sauer <email>
Sacramento, CA USA 03/18/2008
An incident in Normandy
My wife's cousin, Richard, is visiting us this week. He came down last weekend from Quebec and drove his girlfriend, Danielle to JFK airport for a flight to the Maldives to visit her daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren. Richard, a Quebecois and frequent visiter to France, has been giving us periodic advice on how to handle ourselves during our stay in Paris. We booked our Paris trip through www.Untours.com to AVOID the bus tour experience. Tonight over a bottle of wine, French bread and some salad, he told us that in Paris (he pronounces it Paree) it is very common to see people bring their dogs into even the most fancy restaurants. A few years ago he and Danielle were in Paris visiting Danielle's best friend, Marjolaine, who works for Radio France International in Paris. Marjolaine has a huge dog named Arthur. This dog is used to being fed from the dinner table. However, this is not polite. So if asked whether Arthur is fed from the dinner table, her answer will always be "Non!". As the story goes, Richard, Danielle, Marjolaine and her husband, Duclos, were at a fancy restaurant in Normandy one evening. Of course Arthur came along also. The French like to show how well behaved their dogs are. So when everyone sat down for a fancy gourmet dinner, Arthur sat at perfect attention. However, when it became evident that he was not going to be fed from the table, he began howling like a wolf. Marjolaine finally had to lead Arthur out of the restaurant. But because Arthur is such a big dog, his wagging tail is at table level. So on the way out of the restaurant many tables were swept clear of anything in the way, including wine bottles.
Richard (with his facial expressions) does a much better job of telling this funny story. Experiences like this, no matter how embarassing or funny, are what we look for in our travels. Immersing yourself in the culture of a foreign country will produce longer lasting memories than the "must see" tourist site. We do all our traveling minus the instant loud crowds that bus tours create. Having an exchange with a local is what I call traveling.
Bill Kover <email>
Piscataway, N.J. USA 03/16/2008
Paris engagement
Paris was full of magical moments- but the best would have to be:
On the 2nd night of our Paris trip (a gift)-after a full day of sightseeing and a wine tasting- my boyfriend and I went up the Eiffel Tower at sunset for beautful views of the sun setting and the city of light coming to life. After the tower, we walked across the street to a carousel. While riding the carousel- he proposed to me! As we stepped off of the carousel the Eiffel Tower came to life with millions of twinkling lights and the crowd roared. My heart was so full at that moment I thought I would burst. It was the perfect end to the day!
ARL
USA 02/28/2008
Death By Chocolate Funny in Rome
I had the "Rome" pages from Rick's book in my hand while standing in line for gelato. Without a word, the man behind the counter handed me a Death By Chocolate gelato. I said "how did you know that's what I wanted?" and in a heavy accent he said "Rick Steve's said so."
Marguerite
Charleston, SC USA 02/25/2008
Paris bikes
When I was in Paris last summer I took the Big Fat bikes day and night tour. The BEST part of the night tour was riding around the inner courtyard of the Louvre Museum on a bike.. it was dark and quiet except for a lone cello player... I was expecting Silas the monk to come out of a dark corner. =)
I also loved riding my bike along the river bank. It was so freeing and daring.
Tricia
Destin, fl USA 02/10/2008
Finding Flagmount, Co Clare
In 2000, my Mam and I had to take a trip to Ireland for family reasons. Anyway, she grew up outside Flagmount, Co Clare. It was just my mam & I on this particular trip. I had driven many times to the town in the past w/& w/out her, however, on this particular trip my mam insisted that I take another route that my Aunt had wanted us to take. My Aunt's directions were horrible & we got so lost. It would normally take me not time at all to get to Flagmount, but this time I was driving around the 'wilds' of Clare for hours.
My mam who had not been to flagmount w/a member of her family w/her did not recognize any possible landmarks. That was until we came up over a hill and looked down into the valley below and be both saw straight ahead Lough Graney; which is the Lough were Flagmount is situated on. We were actually at a fork in the road at this point.
I asked my mam which way...left or right...as we could see that the road clearly went around the Lough. She didn't know & I didn't know. We decided to go right. After we turned turned right to go down the road around the Lough, my mam says, "I wish we would run into someone I know."
No sooner had she said that then we see an old farm/gent walking down the road in his "wellies", tweed blazer, walking stick, and a black/white sheep dog! I stopped the car and he came over to the driver side. I explained that I was looking for the town of Flagmount. I he said, " Now, what you wanting to be doing now, is to go up to that gate" as he pointed to two stone pillars way down the road. And then he continued, "You want to be passing that gate and you want to be keeping on that road and you will get to Flagmount." I was quite relieved. I thanked him for his help.
I explained that I was taking my mam to see her cousins in Flagmount. At that point he bends down looks into the car .. sees my mam and says, "Junie... Junie Hogan..is that you? It's me, it's me, it's Paddy Kennedy!" He and my mam exchanged words for a few min. Then he looks at me and he says, "Now what you want to be doing is when you get to that gate down there.." pointing to the pillars. he continued, "You want to be turning around and go back the way you came and when you get to the fork in the road make a right." He then leaned down again, looking at my mam and said, "Johnny's house is the first house on he left and Rogers is the third house."
My cousins laughed because it seemed that this gent before he seen my mam was willing to send the 'yanks' around Lough the long way. My mam told me that it was a bit freakish,because she had no clue who this 'Paddy Kennedy' was & to this day does not remember him or his family from her childhood.
claregirl02 <email>
westminster, md USA 02/08/2008
Morning in Tuscany
I had been dreaming of visiting Tuscany for years, my husband had had the great luck of spending six months in Montisi before we married. On our dream vacation, visiting friends in London and Paris and Montisi, Italy. We took the train from Paris to Lyon, where we rented a car and drove through the Alps, spent a night in Rivoli. We then drove to Montisi, arriving after dark. We were greeted by our friends and had a lovely visit, got ourselves tucked into our apartment and fell fast asleep in the quiet Montisi countryside. In the morning, I woke early, excited to see Tuscany! As I entered the bathroom, the light from the window and the view of the Tuscan Hill Country appeared as a impressionist painting hanging on the bathroom wall!
Truly, the light is amazing!
Laurie
Dallas, OR USA 01/12/2008
Magic Music
As a songwriter on my 1st trip/tour to Europe with my songwriting partner. To write a song about Dublin, in London & recorded live at our flat in Paris with the Eiffel Tower in the background is a magic moment that I will never forget. Every time I hear the song it takes me back. I can't wait to go back. You can see the video here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AF2iMt-Vav0
Kathy <email>
Anaheim, Ca USA 12/25/2007
Tea in a tiny English Village
My wife and I spent a week homebased in Stratford-upon- Avon England. One day we took a hike to 3 local villages.We lost our way and asked directions from three ladies out walking their dogs. They walked with us to the village of Preston-On- Stour and told us that there was a tea garden attached to the little market in the village. We went into the store and asked if we could have tea. The lady took us out to a small, very tidy garden next to the store where 3 or 4 tables were set up on a lush green lawn, surrounded by beautiful flowers and several chickens in a pen. She brought us tea and scones with delicous jam and clotted cream that was so creamy and rich, like nothing I had ever had before. We were the only ones sitting out in the garden.The village was very quiet and the few people we saw were locals coming to get their mail at the post office that was also in the little village store.we were serenaded by the gentle pecking of the chickens in their metal food bowls. I didnt want to move, even long after we had finished, it was so peaceful and serene. That time was a highlight of our trip for both of us, totally unplanned but a very welcome respite off the beaten track in a "undiscovered" village.
Martin Grabske <email>
Livermore, Ca USA 10/28/2007
Venice Storms are Fun!
My first day in Venice was like a vacation from my travels. With no cars and scooters to dodge I could walk around care-free and at my own pace. I was walking around with a new friend from my hostel and on our way back to our we stumbled on a chocolate shop tucked away in a narrow ally. Which by the way had brownies to die for. It was drizzling through out the day and while we were in the shop it started to storm and the rain came pouring down! Unfortunately I forgot to put my umbrella and poncho in my daybag... we were close to the hostel so we decided to try and make a run for it, but didn't get too far, we found shelter under a shady looking "tunnel" and tried to wait it out. But after I finished my heavenly brownie and the storm getting worse we bolted and ended up taking refuge in a church. We squeezed through a very narrow wooden door and walked into darkness. There were no lights, just candles, and we sat on a pew. Though it was dark, we could tell we were surrounded by huge paintings on the walls and ceilings. It was quiet and the thunder outside was just a faint rumble. Although I got wet I was glad I forgot my umbrella, or else I would have missed out on this experience I'll never forget!
Sarah <email>
Ellettsville, IN USA 10/25/2007
Shooting Stars
My most magical moment was actually a magical day. It occured while in Gimmelwald, on a clear cool evening in this past August. That day I had hiked up to the top of the Schilthorn and back, the whole while wishing that my eyes could drink. Then later that night we counted 14 shooting stars while setting in the hot tub at the Mountain Hostel in Gimmelwald, Switzerland, all the while drinking wine straight out of the bottle with my Australian friend. I have never been happier that I was that night, nor have I ever been surrounded by so many like minded individuals as when I am in Gimmelwald 4,850 miles away from my home. That day was the most dreamlike of all the days I spent in Gimmelwald.
Anna R. <email>
Independence, MO USA 10/02/2007
Paris at night
My husband and I were standing on the Pont Neuf in Paris, alone at about 11 pm, looking over the Paris skyline, watching the boats on the Seine, imagining all the history that had transpired there, and snuggling.
Linda
Salem, OR USA 09/23/2007
Venice at Easter
Our magic moment was just being in St. Mark's square in Venice on Easter Eve. Pure magic.
Cyn2
USA 09/13/2007
RV Travel in Europe
I don't recommend RV Travel for anyone but us, please follow Rick's instructions for your visit to Europe.
In travel, as in life — different strokes for different folks. We don’t say our way is the only, the best, or even an acceptable way to travel, for anyone but us.
Is RV travel worth it, you ask? Can you imagine camping at Chamonix, France at the foot of Mt. Blanc; in Fiesole, Italy, high over the Arno River Valley with the domes and towers of Florence spread out below; on an island in the Rhône River with the floodlit Le Pont D’Avignon and the Popes’ Palace on the far riverbank; with le Mont St. Michel (northern France) out our window one night, the Rock of Gibraltar (southern Spain), or the Parthenon (in Athens) on another; next to the wall of the Crusades city of Aigues-Mortes, and the double wall of Carcassonne, France; on the bank of the River Seine in Paris, the Neckar in Heidelberg, the Vltava in Prague, the Rhine and the Mosel at Koblenz, and the Danube in Budapest; on Lido Island across the lagoon from Venice; along the Adriatic near Dubrovnik; and hundreds more.
Visiting these spectacular destinations seems almost a dream.
For us, clothes on a hanger, goodies in the refrigerator, our own toilet and shower, are the seal of approval for RV travel. Could you and your travel partner spend 6 weeks or 6 months in a space half the size of your dining room? For me, no problem. For Sweetie … … ?
Jim Humberd <email>
Burbank, ca USA 09/07/2007
Magic Moments in Italy
1. In Florence: Standing on Ponte ala Carraria looking towards the Ponte Vecchio at sunset and beyond...
2. Also Florence: Piazzale Mihelangelo at dawn, sunset, whatever for greatest view of Florence.
3. Rome: Standing behind Senate Palace on Capitol and gazing at Roman Forum.
4. Venice: Standing on Ponte Accademia looking every which way at any hour of the day.
5. Varenna (Lake Como): Anywhere along the shore looking at the lake. Also on a ferry.
6. Sorrento: Dinner at Loralei looking at sunset.
7. Amalfi Coast: Anywhere along the coast.
8. Tuscany: Anywhere in Tuscany or Umbria.
Alan <email>
Woodstock, NY USA 08/23/2007
Sitting on my bed in Monmarte,Paris looking out the window at the Eifle Tower during an electrical storm.
tracee <email>
granada hills, ca USA 08/14/2007
Arc De Triumph at night
Go to the Arc De Triumph in Paris at night on the Champs Eleysees. Do it at around 9:50, stay at the top until 10:00pm when the Eiffel Tower will sparkle with tons of beautiful lights. Around you should be a great sunset (depending on the time) and the rest of the city sprawled out beneath your feet. The best view in all of Europe. It is really magic.
Adam
Berkeley, CA USA 08/09/2007
Magic in the Metro
My daughters, granddaughter and I had spent a busy day shopping and riding the Metro around Paris. We were changing Metro lines at the Republic station and while hiking through the crowds we suddenly heard a beautiful tenor voice singing an aria. We were exhausted but his voice was thrilling, the acoustics perfect and we couldn't help smiling as we made our way passed him and onto our train.
Dani <email>
Tucson, AZ USA 07/15/2007
Special Stops in Ireland
An often over looked city in the South of the Republic of Ireland is Dungarvan. It has a lovely town square, wonderful ocean views and a super [and affordable] don't miss shop called Sip N' Surf Internet Cafe at Davitts Quay next to the bus stop. This charming place has all the comforts of home, both hot and cold food, drinks [a lovely hot chocolate and good coffee], web surfing, and they can accomodate wireless. The proprietors, Aileen Whelan and Katie Kiely would love to see you. Stop by for a refreshment when in the area!
Sheri Mishler <email>
Winter Garden, FL USA 06/05/2007
Last year I traveled with my mom and my sister to Munich, Salzburg, Italy, and London. Two magic moments that stand out for me were visiting my family's hometown of Pietrelcina, Italy, and since we were traveling during the World Cup, seeing the enthusiasm in England for the national team. I knew there would be a lot of support for the England team since English football fans are (in)famous the world over. It was so nice to be in a place during he World Cup where football is held in such high regard unlike generally here in the US. And of course I was rooting for England. :)
Phil
Riverdale, MD USA 05/25/2007
Return to Russia
Before I left Russia in the mid-80s after living/working there for 10 years, I made a promise to visit after several years. It became a reality last year only when I returned to visit Moscow and St. Petersburg, even if only for a few days and nights (4 nights in each city).
I became very emotional upon my arrival at the airport. It felt like my first visit there, and yet deep within me, I really know this place very well. I know the streets, understand their language, etc. After the initial shock, a lot of memories started to come back and flooded my mind especially when I started to tour the city and its familiar sights. I still see the old city and its people that have become a big part of my life. I experienced the changes brought about by the west, so many different choices, better clothes, restaurants, grocery and electronic shops and many others. They even lots of casinos there now.
For me, it was worth the wait and it was a dream come true. Oh yes, I nearly froze to death because of the dreaded russian winter, but it was "magic" indeed!
Ben <email>
Long Beach, CA USA 05/21/2007
Another great moment until.....
To USA who posted "great moment unless" on 1/16/07:
I couldn't agree with you more. After 6 days in Venice, it was time to head to Florence via train. Our hotel was very close to the bus depot and I had to push/pull my luggage (full of murano items) over 5 bridges and many stairways on my way to the train station. All I could say was "where were all the water taxis when you need them", and that I was willing to pay $200 to someone who would take my luggage to the station.
But my visit to Venice was all worth it!!!
Ben <email>
Long Beach, CA USA 05/21/2007
swans, pot, and canals
a friend and i were in Bruges this past summer. one night, we scored a little pot on advice from some spanish guys. After a quick smoke next to a canal at night, we looked over to find a group of swans sleeping in the canal, right next to the 15th century hospital. Priceless
Adam <email>
Fresno, CA USA 05/20/2007
Bad Schandau Spa
After a day of hiking and biking in the Elbsandstein region east of Dresden on the German/Czech border, we spent a couple of hours at the Toskana Therme (hot springs) in Bad Schandau. The "Liquid Sound Temple" is the epitomy of relaxation - a warm salt water pool with underwater music and a domed light show. You simple float in the water and let all your cares drift away. We have never experienced anything like this - absolutely glorious!
Gail Cheever <email>
Trophy Club, Texas USA 05/14/2007
Meeting our
I have been wanting to share this experience for over a year.
Being from New Orleans, 2005 was a rough year. My partner and I lost our home in the flooding that ensued after Katrina. For years now, I have been a huge fan of Rick Steves and his guidebooks. In fact we have now used his guidebooks for 10 years now and have turned many friends and family into aficionados as well. In fact, just weeks before the storm, we had been in Sylt, Germany (that is a story for another day). This is all relevant more as a prelude to this “magic moment” or actually two such moments.
After living as nomads for months after Hurricane Katrina, we finally returned to New Orleans but were, and remain, living in a cramped temporary apartment in the city. Along with another couple, one of whom is a working musician, who had also lost their home, we decided to spend part of December 2005 visiting a friend in London and then a few days in Amsterdam.
When we arrived in London, our friend, Angele, informed us that “Sir” Paul McCartney, was about to publish a children’s book and would be signing the book at the Piccadilly Waterstone’s. We learned that we first had to get wristbands and needed to be in line early the next morning. Although we knew waking early would be a chore, we decided to give it a try. We arrived at Waterstone’s at 7am the next morning only to discover a line that wrapped around the block, and that they only planned to give out two hundred wristbands. After waiting for almost three hours, we approached the front of the store with trepidation, but discovered we would be given the last four wristbands. What true luck. Guaranteed a spot in the store, we were advised to return on Wednesday to meet Sir Paul. Needless to say, we were overjoyed.
We returned on Wednesday as instructed and stood in line for only a few minutes when Paul McCartney arrived. Almost immediately, the line began to move and we were ushered inside, our bags were stored away and we each purchased a copy of his new book. Within a half an hour, we were close enough to observe him signing copies of the book for customers. We were told to not engage him in too much conversation, as there was a long line waiting to meet him. Nevertheless, as we approached him, one of my friends mentioned we were from New Orleans. He stopped writing an asked how we were doing and mentioned how much he loved New Orleans. He was gracious and unassuming. We were giddy to be meeting a living legend. Truly a once in a lifetime experience, but our musician friend was simply on cloud nine meeting his childhood idol. As we were walking away, I mentioned that the only thing that could make this trip even better for me was if we happened to meet Rick Steves while we were traveling, as he was my “Paul McCartney.”
The visit to London was, as usual, wonderful and then we moved on to Amsterdam, alas no Rick Steves. We had been to Amsterdam a few times before and were looking for something different to do on a Sunday night. Another guest at our hotel suggested this comedy group similar to Second City, Boom Chicago, with American comedians basically making fun of American tourists.
After sitting down at our table, I got up to get a couple of drinks. Walking back from the bar, I saw a gentleman that looked just like Rick, but I was not sure if it was him. A few minutes later, he was walking in our direction, and no mistaking it was him. Not wanting to miss the chance, I stopped him as he walked by and meekishly announced I was “his biggest fan.” I was embarrassing myself, much less my friends. It id not matter, as the show started, it was my turn to be giddy after meeting my idol. But it got better.
There was an intermission during the show, which was hilarious by the way, and we were talking to the people at the next table about how it was cool that Rick was there. Suddenly, I felt a tap on my shoulder and turned around to see Rick Steves sitting down at our table. He asked where we were from and where else we had been on this trip. He engaged us about travel for the entire intermission and wished us well. After the show, he made a point of asking how we liked the show and what we planned the rest of the evening. I turned to my friends as we left and said – now I have met my personal “Paul McCartney.”
It was simply a magic moment, especially for me.
Rick <email>
New Orleans, La USA 05/12/2007
Switzerland on 4th of July
We happened to be at Hotel Lotschberg in Interlaken Switzerland on July 4 last year. We were treated to Fritz's complimentary 4th of July (!?!) Swiss BBQ/picnic. It was very nice to chat with the other guests and have some great food and beer.
SB
BELGIUM, BELGIUM 04/03/2007
Connecting with a Local
My wife and I went to visit the small village in Germany where my grandparents lived for many years.I had visited them numerous times while growing up (Sadly both have passed away) so I was very familar with the little village of Bingen. I had so much fun showing my wife the places I knew in the area. I speak some German, but am by no means fluent.We stoppped in a little cafe for afternoon coffee and a peice of the cafe's speciality sweet peice, Beehive.We were the only people in the place and it looked almost like it was closed. None of the tables were set and the area behind the bar was darkened. The owner came out , sat with us, and we talked for three hours straight ,In German. He told us all about his family and how the cafe was passed down from his parents and how his brother owns the bakery across the street. My wife doesnt speak German.I translated as we went. She had as much fun as I did just listening.When we walked out, we could hardly believe we had spent three hours connecting with a local and talking totally in German.
Martin <email>
Livermore, Ca USA 04/02/2007
Paris
My older sister died unexpectedly in early June 2005 which was exceptionally hard on our mother. And while they live in paradise (Hawaii) they are far away from family. Since the first anniversary of my sister's death was close to Mother's Day and my Mother's own birthday were within a short period of time, I didn't want my parents to be alone for these occassions so we went on a 2 week trip to the Cotswold and London. Loved teas at Brown's and Fortnum and Mason.
But as a surprise, we took a day trip to Paris for her actual 85th birthday and it was a magical 12 hours that I think helped her know that there could still be happy times to look forward to and life still goes on. She stills can't believe happened. The sun was shining, sky a beautiful shade of blue with fluffy white clouds, the boat ride on the Seine was relaxing, lunch was delicious (quiche, omelets, chocolate mousse, champagne.). She got to sit in the Tuileries and people watch there as well as at a cafe for an afternoon break. We "only" walked five miles with lots of stops at benches. The Lourve was closed, the lines at the Eiffel Tower were long so we enjoyed just being there together and knowing that we could all have happy times again. Just enjoyed being there in the moment -not having preset expectations or rushing around - just taking things as they happened was a gift for us all.
Kay McClain
Arlington, MA USA 03/31/2007
An old friend in Paris
Seeing my French friend Maryse, whom I had lost touch with for 26 years. Sitting in her living room in Paris, drinking champagn and catching up on life after all that time; kids, husbands, careers, family and old friends, we picked up right were we left off. I am going back to see her in three weeks. We are not letting 26 years escape us again.
cheri <email>
Seattle, WA USA 03/28/2007
Portugal is FABULOUS Feb. 2007
Two from Portugal, Feb. 2007
1. Sitio: Watching the little old lady selling dried fruit while swatting away pigeons with her cane in one hand and a big stick in the other. She shoo'd them away while talking to them. Later, she counted the seven petticoats in her skirt for us and posed for an unforgettable photo with my 8 year old daughter (nearly the same height).
2. Driving to Hell's Pool (waterfall) north of Tavira Portugal and getting behind a woman herding sheep down the road, from one field to another. The sheep kept stopping to munch from the side of the road. Waterfall looked Fijian.
Shannon
Overijse, BE BELGIUM 03/07/2007
CROATIA - MAGIC MOMENT IN KORCULA
At Rick's suggestion, we included two days in the beautiful walled city of Korcula (on the island of the same name). Korcula is a mini-version of Dubrovnik, and was much less crowded, at least in May when we were there.
On a Saturday evening, we had just finished a simple dinner at a small cafe along the city wall. We strolled slowly along the curving walled, which is lined with many cafes and restaurants. At one point, my wife asked if it sounded like live music around the bend. Sure enough, there was a 5- or 6-person singing group, playing guitars, string bass and mandolins. The music was simple, beautiful and emotional.
The evening was clear and warm. A soft breeze wafted in from the Adriatic. Sailboats glided silently by. The mountains of mainland Croatia rose dramatically in the background. Lanterns had been lit in the trees lining the wall. We sat down on a bench, as tears welled up. Shortly, a young German couple stopped by to take some photos. The young man tapped me on the shoulder. As I glanced up at him, he pointed across the the water. An enormous, orange, full moon was just coming up over the mountains. We never spoke a word, but shrugged to each other to indicate that we all understood that it couldn't get much more magical. By now, tears were streaming down my face.
Several days later, we stepped into a small music shop in Dubrovnik. I asked the sales person about the music we had heard. He said, "Oh, that was klapa music. I have just the CD for you." When I played the CD upon our return home, this 62 year-old mush ball cried lake a baby!
Bill
Syracuse, NY 03/02/07
Bill Elkins <email>
Syracuse, NY USA 03/02/2007
Before Prague wakes up
Prague is a beautiful city, but often crowded with tourists, buskers, and various vendors. A spent a sunny crisp spring morning wandering around the city. Before eight in the morning (and definitely before seven) the tourist spots are empty. I was able to wander along Charles Bridge, carefully examining the statues, almost entirely alone. This goes for the Old Town Square and Mala Strana, too. I have amazing photos and love Prague even more
Erin <email>
USA 03/02/2007
Waking from the Night Train
We took a night train from Paris to Barcelona. Waking up in the morning to the lightly clouded hills, and the serene isolation is one of my happiest and vivid memories of the entire trip.
Brent
Fort Collins, CO USA 02/28/2007
Ceremony of the Keys
Shivering - yet being totally quiet - with our three children during the late night 'Ceremony of the Keys' at the Tower of London and realizing that years of dreaming, months of planning and a 34-hour travel day had actually brought us all to London. Two other "unforgetables" were stepping off the train - on Chritmas Eve - and seeing our British cousins, and celebrating our daughter's 16th birthday by seeing a Shakespeare play (a musical, even!) in Stratford-Upon-Avon. How blessed we are when we get to travel overseas and share it with those who are special to us.
Beth
Huntsville, AL USA 02/22/2007
Looking out windows
Sitting in the Hotel Mena House bar looking out the window one evening at lit pyrmids with my husband and another couple,was truely a magical window moment. I never thought I would actually ever be in Egypt. Another window moment was laying in my hotel bed in Athens looking out the window at the beautifully lit Acropolis. What a magical way to drift off to sleep!
sue
mandeville, la USA 02/21/2007
First night in Paris
On our first trip to Paris, we stopped at a cafe on the Left Bank for a beer after visiting the Louvre, and met Jim and Kris (female), friends and coworkers from San Diego, and Robin, a Chicago businessman of Palestiniian descent, along with his two daughters. We talked for maybe half an hour, then parted, and we went to the Latin Quarter for dinner. As we were walking back to our hotel near place de l'Opera at about 9 PM, my wife needed to find a WC, so we stopped at Harry's New York Bar for a quick drink. When I went to use the WC, which is in the lower level, I saw all our new friends at the downstairs piano bar! They'd been together the rest of the day, and we shook off our jet lag and stayed up with them all until 3 AM! We met Jim and Kris the next day for more fun, then they were off to Amsterdam and we were off to Heidelberg. But what a first day!
Leo Cotton <email>
Bloomington, MN USA 02/20/2007
helping out locals
Greetings from Bonn, Germany, the old capital from 1949 to 1999. It is a very good feeling to be able to help the locals out while travelling, especially when speaking their language. Lately I had a chance to help out a couple of people with very "mundane" activites on the streetcar that runs from Bonn-Beuel to Königswinter / Bad Honnef. The first time was helping an elderly lady cancel her ten-ride ticket. She was not able to quickly get up to the ticket stamper, so she asked me to cancel the first field on the ticket. I cancelled this, and was happy only to have the satisfaction of making their day a bit easier.
The second time, I was able to help a mother of a toddler in a stroller in the "Telekom Express" train. The stations south of Ramersdorf are low-floor and the train had a high floor. With a stroller it can be a problem to go up and down stairs, especially if the child can't be taken out of their stroller quickly enough. I took hold of the front wheels while the mother held on to the rear handles. The stoller was safely on the station platform, and I was able to get back into the train before the doors closed. It feels good to "reach out" and show good stewardship to local people, even those we don't know.
Josh Hanz <email>
Frisco, TX USA 02/20/2007
Pachelbel on steps of Sacre Coere
My dog and I took the funicular up the steps to the Sacre Coere at Montmartre in Paris. And as the funicular doors opened and we got off, I heard the most beautiful music. A man was playing a harp, on the scenic overhang, to Pachelbel's Canon in D. I just stood there, transfixed by the sight, looking all around, over the rooftops of Paris. The scene was so peaceful and beautiful, to turn and see all of Paris, to the tune of Pachelbel's Canon, with the sun shining, and since it was winter, not many tourists around...it was one of those magical moments in Paris, never to be forgotten. And I thought to myself, I sure couldn't see this in Lansing!
Ellen <email>
Lansing, MI USA 02/19/2007
Czesky Krumlov
Our weekend arrival to this World Heritage center in the Czech Republic reminded us of a miniature Prague. By Sunday evening the throngs had loaded into their busses and left this beautiful town to the few of us smart enough to stay. Our lonely strolls through this ancient town, its fantastic castle and its wonderful gardens will always be remembered as a favorite of our European trips!
Jim
Round Rock, Texas USA 02/17/2007
Paris at Dusk
My first time in Paris my husband and I decided to walk to the Eiffel tower from our hotel. I had twisted my ankle on the cobble stones and was very jet lagged but I solidered on. It was dusk and the scene was magical. I remember walking around the corner to see the tower in front of me. My breath caught in my throat. Who knew it was so beautiful? There were people sitting on the grass kissing..a grandmother was pushing her grand child on a tricycle. I still remember her talking to him so lovingly in French..just as the sun set the sparkling lights on the tower turned on. There was an audible gasp from everyone enjoying the night on the Champ Du Mars. The most romantic and wonderful moment I have ever had. Sure enough my ankle didn't hurt anymore. :) Tears formed in my eyes and I just took it all in. Talk about a Zen moment. I will never forget that night and that feeling of being so lucky and so happy to get to experience the world. Just pure magic.
Katie <email>
Denver, Co USA 02/14/2007
Beautiful Brienz
Several Years ago my wife and I spent a month in the Swiss Heartland through Untours.com, staying at a chalet in a small town called Sachseln. One of our day trips was to the town of Brienz, which is famous for its woodcarving and music boxes. Arriving in Brienz at about 10:15am, we stopped at the tourist information center in the train station for a map. We were told that besides the woodcarving tours, we should make a point to see the older section of town up Brunngasse and Oberdorfstrasse. As we headed down the main street called Hauptstrasse, the streets were almost deserted. We seemed to have the whole town to ourselves. It was a gorgeous Spring day with beautiful scenery everywhere we looked. At every turn my eyes were greeted with a picture postcard view. But as fate would have it, the woodcarving tours were not to be the highlight of the day. Brienz's woodcarvers went to lunch early, probably because there were no tourists in town except us. So we saw no woodcarving demonstrations. We did purchase a small music box, and then went to lunch. With our appetites satisfied, we headed to the older section of town. Following the tourist office's instructions, we turned right onto Brunngasse from Hauptstrasse and slowly made our way past ancient chalets decorated with ingenious flower displays. Brunngasse led to Oberdorfstrasse where we turned right again. Besides historic chalets, Oberdorfstrasse is lined with walls covered in beautiful flowers. This was the true beginning of our magical moment. As we approached the corner of Oberdorfstrasse and Krummgasse, the sound of a choir was drifting out of an open window. So we sat down on a nearby bench and enjoyed our own private concert. My wife thought someone was playing a recording. But I was convinced that it was a live concert (it was a live rehearsal). When the singing ended, I wanted to clap, but felt too shy. I wish I had overcome my shyness. This was the highlight of our trip, all alone on a heavenly avenue being entertained by a heavenly choir. And then it got even better. At the corner of Oberdorfstrasse and Platzlistrasse looking north, we came upon a scene that was truly beautiful. The majestic Swiss mountains in the background with a distant roaring waterfall were framed by a foreground of dazzling brilliant tulips bathed in sunshine. We spent 10 minutes at this spot, admiring the view and taking photographs. As we came to the end of Oberdorfstrasse, I took one last look back at the source of our magical moment. About a week later, we returned to Brienz so my wife could do some shopping. While my wife was looking at curtains, I headed back to Oberdorfstrasse. I wanted to convince myself that the magic on Oberdorfstrasse wasn't a figment of my imagination. I retraced our steps of a week before and again walked down Oberdorfstrasse. The flowers were still there along with the open window. But now in place of a heavenly choir, the air was filled with the sounds of a jackhammer. Workers were replacing a sidewalk where heaven used to be. Sometimes you have to be lucky to be in the right place at the right time.
Bill Kover <email>
Piscataway, N.J. USA 01/29/2007
Day trip in Hall near Innsbruck
Staying at Gasthof Badl in Hall near Innsbruck, Frau Steiner suggested we drive up to the Hinterhornalm. It is a local, small and very narrow toll road that twists its way up the mountian about 6 miles, 100 hair pin turns.I did it with a manual 5 speed. The view we cannot describe. My wife and I stayed all afternoon just sitting and looking at the Inn River valley below. Then a easy walk thru the mountians to three(3) isolated farms where you can get food and drinks. We sat in front of a farmer's barn and ate our lunch. We did it on a Sunday and walked with all local families out for a stroll, NO torusits!!!!!. It was the highlight of our trip.
Darrell Foor <email>
Belle Vernon, PA USA 01/21/2007
Great moment unless
Walking out the door of the Venice train station will be a great moment unless you have much luggage then you realize ther are steps and no taxi instead the beautiful canal !!
USA 01/16/2007
A few Magic moments
Picnic under the Eiffel tower...inside Newgrange...Meeting a young student/royal airforce reservist standing in the back of a very crowded train in Wales. We spoke for a while, and when he got off the train he gave us his formal flight gloves...Amsterdam canals at night and sitting on the top of NEMO with a bottle of wine and a picnic...Hearing a street performer playing our song while we were walking along the Thames...Every pint of Guiness in Ireland and every glass of wine in Paris.
S & S
Santa Rosa, CA USA 01/07/2007
New Year's Eve in London
Just after midnight on New Year's Eve in London, we turned out the lights, having watched the fireworks on the television and reflected in the windows of the office building across the street. Lying there in the dark, I thought I was imagining it, but no, there, in the distance, thousands of voices singing "Auld Lang Syne" from Parliament Square. Fell asleep meditiating on the concept of things being the same but different all over the world. Magic!
Carrie McKenzie <email>
Wauwatosa, WI USA 01/04/2007
Magical Moments
I quickly thought of scads of magical moments from the 9 months I lived
in Italy long ago. I lived in an apartment building with 2 other American
families & 3 Italian families. My observations are two: (1) they are not
always Magical Moments when they happen, and (2) the best ones involve people
communicating with people. Rick's right, you gotta mix with people in an
environment that fosters mutual respect--not ****hotels!
Don McCuistion <email>
USA 12/25/2002
Magical Moments - York, England
I will never forget a magical stroll along the river in York this past October.
It was a brilliant Sunday morning; my fiance & I were the only people out
walking. On the horizon, York Minster glistened and the sounds of clanging
church bells filled the air. As it was a practice session, the bells rang
for at least 45 minutes. It was spectacular! There is nothing more special
than experiencing Europe with the one that you love...I can't wait to go
back!
Jen <email>
North Vancouver, Canada 12/19/2002
Costa Del Sol....
Waking up in Marbella Spain in our 2 bed apartment right on the beach, is
what I am going to remember forever... My girlfriend and I spent 15 days
on the beach drinking sangria and dancing the nights away at the discoteque....
Hope to visit again very sooon,..
Jeffrey <email>
Boston, ma USA 12/11/2002
Early Morning Bruges
I stepped out from our B&B (Paul & Roos Gheeraert's; it's beautiful & recommended
by Rick.) at 7:30 AM to get the lay of the land and plan our day. At 7:40
I found myself in the middle of a sea of children on their bikes, pedaling
to school. Some adults were pedaling to work, too. We don't have scenes
like that in Houston. It was one of the most delightful and "foreign" moments
of the trip.
Greg Broer
Houston, TX USA 12/10/2002
Stormy Night in Berchtesgaden
My (soon-to-be) wife and I were still getting to know each other in 1986
when I took her to Europe for the first time. There were many great moments
as I shared her love of the continent with her, but one evening was even
more special. After a lovely dinner in Berchtesgaden, we walked through
a cemetery which was suffused with the glow from several hundred candles,
then we were able to view a tremendous storm crossing the moonlit night
sky, in front of a majestic snow-capped mountain, from the safety of the
balcony of our small room. She sat on my lap as we shared a 'Downenbett'
comforter, and snuggled.
Bill Nigh <email>
Montclair, NJ USA 12/03/2002
The Tooth Mouse
On the Metro into Paris from CDG, our youngest son and I were sitting with
a young French couple, and I noticed them looking at his front tooth, which
was hanging by a thread. I decided to test the waters and find out two things:
1. Are Parisiens really rude? 2. Just how bad is my French. So I asked them,
in my horrid French, "If he looses that tooth in Paris, who's going to bring
him money?" While informing me that a mouse brings the cash, they answered
my questions: French people are NOT rude, even if my French is bad. They
then welcomed us to Paris, warned us of pickpockets, and talked quite amicably
to my son and me for the rest of the trip. (I must say, however, that I
was happy that the tooth held on, and didn't come out until we reached Beirut,
which boasts a cleaner version of the tooth fairy in the form of a reindeer.)
Karen
NC USA 11/27/2002
Cune, Diecimo, Lucca, Italy
These names were towns my husband heard while growing up in Boston (Dorchester)
from his parents and grandparents, so when the discussion of following my
sons 'calcio' team to Rome came up, we had to looks for his roots. Our magical
20 minutes happened when we survived the ride up the giant mountain to 'Cune'and
our English speaking guide asked the right questions and found my husbands
second cousin Velia. We understood her tearfully exclaim 'Mi Familia!' We
hugged, kissed, snapped quite a few pictures, then bid a hasty farewell
to run to our train. We sat in awe that we had found her, be it ever so
brief.
Kathy <email>
EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ USA 11/26/2002
Finding Family in France
My wife and I rented a car to drive to the village of Ige, our ancestral
home in southern Normandy. My ancestor Jean LeNormand left there in 1640
to go to Quebec. We arrived at Ige on Sunday, in time to attend services
in the church where my ancestors used to worship. Prior to the ceremony,
the priest came down into the congregation of about 50, with a greeting
for everyone. When he came to me, I offered him the family history packet
I had brought along. He politely asked how we happened to be there, and
requested me to give the booklet to him after Mass. When the service was
over, announcement time was on the agenda. He told the folks in the church
about us, and every single person came up to shake our hands, to converse
as fully as my fumbling French would allow, (several spoke better English
than I did French) and to tell us how happy they were that we attended their
Mass. After that, the good priest took me over to the side of the church,
where the wall bore two plaques honoring Jean LeNormand. He then reminded
me to inspect the entry-stone in the vestibule, worn down six inches by
feet of the faithful (including Jean) across the centuries.
Nelson Norman <email>
San Diego, Ca USA 11/20/2002
Chocolate Breasts
A few years ago I was assigned to a project in Amsterdam for six months
and we made several side trips. One of the side trips we took was to Bruges
where we did the usual tourist things - climb the bell tower (sleeping baby & ringing bells don't mix) and strolled around town. As we walked through
town we came across a patisserie with a very artful and realistic display
of chocolate breasts. There were three sets of breasts - white chocolate,
milk chocolate & dark chocolate - all equipped with their own set of chocolate
lace brassieres. Our son at the time was three years old. When he saw the
display, he paused for a while and examined the window, turned around and
said; "look Mommy, boobies!" Out of the mouths of babes...
Bob Ward <email>
Cupertino, Ca USA 11/20/2002
Col de la Cayolle near Barcelonette France
On a bicycling trip to the French Alps this summer, one of the best rides
was to the Col de la Cayolle from Barcelonette. It was just breathtakingly
spectacular- from the glacial river at the bottom of the valley to the forests
in the middle of the valley to the wonderful alpine meadows at the top.
Best seen from a bike rather than a car, if you can, due to the narrow road-
a bike gives you time to see and hear what's around you.
Tim McNamara
St. Paul, MN USA 11/19/2002
Venice flood
On my first trip to Venice this past May, my friend and I arrived at dusk
on the train from Milano. Two magic moments here: 1) There is nothing to
compare to the sight that awaits you when you first exit the train station
onto the grand canal - it's one of the most breathtaking sites in the world
and nothing prepares you for it the first time you see it. 2) Shortly after
we checked into our hotel that evening, a torrential rain began and we were
treated to an unseasonal flood. The waters rose almost to knee level and
everyone was trapped at the hotels. We missed our dinner reservations and
holed up as long as we could, waiting for the waters to recede, but finally
we couldn't stand the hunger and simply rolled up our pants and ventured
out. To spend one's first evening in Venice wading barefoot over the warm
stones through a flood with the warm yellow lights flickering on every possible
water-covered surface is an experience that I will never forget. We found
a bar, finally, that was still open and had a quick meal, and when we came
out, it was all gone - no more water, no more flood; it was like it had
never happened. But it did. :)
Meg <email>
Seattle, WA USA 11/15/2002
Magic Moments - Venice
Three of us went to Munich. It was October, the weather in Munich turned
rainy and cold. So what could we do for two weeks? Answer: Take Rick's book
and head for Italy. We decided on Venice first, we made reservations (Room,
Train) and the next night hopped the midnight train to Venice. Sleeping
cars were full so we bedded down in the compartment we had commandeered.
Not much sleep, but the Dolomites by moonlight were beautiful. 7:30 AM:
Venice! We went straight from the train to the cappucino and croissant bar.
Then we stepped out of the train station into the Venetian dawn. We watched
the sun come up over the Grand Canal! Well worth the long night. It was
like walking into a Grace Kelly movie.
Christine Leonard <email>
Renton, WA USA 11/14/2002
Transylvanian moon
In August of 2002, our family went to Romania, specifally Transylvania.
We were their visiting our partner church in a village called Simenfalva,
which is near near Kolosvar, the largest city in Translyvania. The best
part of the trip was walking back to our host homes late at night and a
gorgeous full moon- in Translyvania. Need I say more? An interesting story
on Hungarian. Because of its original inclusion in Hungary, Transylvanians
speak Hungarian, which is one of the most difficult languages to learn in
the world. We had just arrived, with a very little Hungarian vocabulary,
and we sat down to eat lunch. We were served bread and soup, and our entire
family thought that we were just eating soup and bread. We were wrong...
bread and soup was the first course. My brother espesccially pigged out
on soup. When he was asked if he thought it was good, he responded one of
the two hungarian words he knew, jo, which means good. They then asked if
he wanted anymore to which he unknowginly responded egen, which means yes.
He was extremely full when we left that lunch......
Anne Reeder
Salem, OR USA 11/10/2002
Best of Italy, Oct/Nov 2002
Italy was an incredible trip. Had champagne in San Marco Square while standing
barefooted and kneedeep in the incoming tide. The band played on. Very Fellini-esque!
Sang Volare with our group of 5 gondolas. Stayed in a 13th-15th century
tower in Florence and drank my campari as the misty full moon rose over
the Duomo, wandered one touristless morning as was the first day visitor
over the bridge at Civita the hilltown which has only 14 inhabitants left
since the buildings began sliding into the surrounding farm valley 60 years
ago, fell in love with the Pieta, went to Naples and was overwhelmed by
the frescoes and mosaics from Pompeii, Herculaneum et all, as well as the
Farnese collection in the Naples Museum...oh my. Hiked in the Dolomites,
walked from village to village in the Cinque Terre, had my Vespa scooter
experience in Sorrento, and of course, threw coins into Rome's Trevi fountain.
Looked into the windows to marvel at the ceilings of Siena by nightfall
with that unearthly dark blue sky overhead.
Ellis Hinnant-Will <email>
Virginia Beach, VA USA 11/08/2002
Ireland - Cliffs of Mohr
After two days of rain, the Irish sky lit up with sunshine on the day of
our anniversary. We spent a romantic afternoon sitting in the grass on the
Cliffs of Mohr. I keep a photo of the cliffs on my office wall. It never
fails to lift my spririts.
Greg Alexander
Lufkin, TX USA 11/05/2002
magic moments
1) Muenster, Germany, summer 1989. Our friend Reinhard's mother is a nut
for churches and takes us to the Cologne cathedral one day. The next day,
she takes us to the local Muenster church, which has an old, old mechanical
clock in it. We go at noon for the mechanical doll show; as the old hymn
plays and the ancient clock clicks and the little people parade around,
the Germans who are watching sing the hymn that the clock is playing. I
still cry when I think of that beautiful moment, these people who have lived
through so much, who took parts of that clock home with them during the
war to protect it and reassembled it later, all standing there singing a
hymn that was over 500 years old.
2) This past summer, escaping a heat wave in central Italy, arriving
late in the afternoon in Venice, we left the kids in the room after dinner
to walk around the town in a cool drizzle. We knew nothing of the town.
We stumbled into a deserted St. Mark's square as the campanile started
to toll midnight. Well, we weren't so old and tired anymore. Magical.
Greg
USA 11/05/2002
Christmas in Venice
My husband and I spent 10 days in Italy last year during Christams and New
Year's. While the whole trip was wonderful, the most magical time was in
Venice. We arrived on Christmas Eve and spent several hours exploring the
shops around St. Mark's. There is nothing like shopping in Venice! We decided
we would celebrate Christmas Day with a gondola ride. To our disappointment,
we couldn't find any gondolas operating on Christmas. So we decided to make
our way to St. Mark's for a vespers service in the evening. On the way to
St. Mark's we stumbled across the most elaborate, beautifully decorated
gondola with a friendly gondolier offering us a ride. We jumped right in
and made our way toward the Grand Canal. When we emerged from the little "back alleys" the sun was beginning to set and the buildings were just glowing.
We were the only gondola on the Grand Canal. There was a peaceful silence
as we glided along. As we passed under the Rialto Bridge we felt like celebrities
- everyone was taking pictures of us in our gondola!
Beth R.
Spring Valley, CA USA 11/02/2002
Parisian "grandmother"
After hearing all the stories about the "obnoxious" and "rude" and "stuck-up" French people, I was a little apprehensive about visiting Paris for the
first time this summer. My very first encounter with a French person, though,
proved all those people wrong. My husband and I had just come up from the
Metro station and were looking at our map, trying to get our bearings for
where we were. Without asking, a little old French lady, probably around
70+ years old, came right up to us and asked if we needed help. I was so
touched! That doesn't even happen to us back at home in the States! The
kindness and friendliness of that single old lady broke down any preconceived
notions I had that the French were rude and arrogant people. Indeed, as
we continued our travels, we found most Parisians to be extremely friendly,
polite, and gracious.
Erica Hovile
San Jose, CA USA 11/01/2002
Weisensee Austria
My husband and I discovered a beautiful little lake resort in the state
of Carinthia, Austria called Weisensee. The water is warm and cystal clear,
the communities small and friendly, and we never heard a word of English
spoken for four days. Waking up early to see the mist rise from the lake,
to watch the sun climb over the mountains, and to smell the fresh cut hay
reminded us we were thousands of miles from the bustle of home. Affordable,
lovely, and remote.
Cynthia <email>
Reston, VA USA 10/26/2002
Great stories!
Wow, reading some of these stories have made my eyes well up! It makes me
want to be instantly transported to Europe, and it's made me think of my
own memories. Like the time my friends in I were in Paris, and each morning
we would go to a little pastry shop right on the Seine where the charming
woman running the shop would teach us helpful French words and sell us delicious
pastries. And we went to Notre Dame and heard a boys choir as we entered,
singing so beautifully it brought tears to my eyes.
Another great memory was my visit to London in March of this year. I
was there when the Queen Mother passed away and I was interviewed by the
BBC! We also went to a non-touristy local bar north of London. We laughed
and drank warm Fuller's London Pride and watched "football" on the telly...
It felt like we had been there all of our lives! How I miss Europe!!!!
Colleen
Atlanta, GA USA 10/22/2002
When in Rome...
Rome and Venice were absolutely fantastic. But after 8 days in Italy, it
was comforting to find an American bar called the Jazz Cafe right across
the street from our hotel in Rome. We stayed at the Hotel Genio, right between
the Piazza Navona and the Tiber River. The Jazz Cafe is across the street.
The manager is named Luis and he grew up in NYC, went to Rome on a 10-day
vacation and stayed. That was 11 years ago. He is very friendly -- even
gave me a ride on his scooter! -- and helpful. Had lots of info I didn't
know. Stop in for a drink or a latte and tell him Monica sent you!
Monica Luck <email>
Atlanta, GA USA 10/16/2002
Lauterbrunnen Valley
Did the early-morning-discount Junfraujoch excursion, and left at noon;
virtually all the passengers on the train napped during the long trip back
down the tunnel. Then later in the afternoon, as I was winding down the
mountain in the train from Kleine Scheidegg to Lauterbrunnen, the entire
valley magically appeared far below, fully lit from behind by bright rays
of sunlight, and I don't think that I have ever seen anything more beautiful
in my life. High snowy peaks loomed over Murren purched on its cliff; the
cable stretching from Gimmelwald almost straight down to the green valley
floor looked like a glistening spiderweb; the high waterfalls spilling down
the sheer rock cliffs sparkled brilliantly. I promised myself that someday
I will have to return, and try experiencing this from the vantage-point
of a tandem paraglider!
Mark M <email>
Seattle, WA USA 10/16/2002
Magic Moment
Our magic moment was on a cool, wet summer evening in Salzburg. We dropped
into the church at Nonnberg Convent, just in time to hear the nuns singing
their evening vespers in the 15th-16th century church...wonderful!
Jim S.
Oklahoma City, OK USA 10/12/2002
Magic in Meldorf
Several years ago we were in far northern Germany in the town of Meldorf
when we had magical moments on a Saturday afternoon. While we were viewing
the beautiful Dom (cathedral), the Academy of Ancient Music from London
was practicing for their concert that night. Violins, violas, and cembalo
(harpsichord) playing Bach, with great acoustics--an unexpected-and free!-treat.
Mary Rankin <email>
San Anselmo, CA USA 10/09/2002
Bon Appetit!
My brother and I were walking along an alpine path in Swizerland when I
heard the voices of a French family having a picnic. My brother and I said "Bon appetit!" to them, whereupon we were "accosted" and "forced" to share
their incredible outdoor meal (hee hee). In very halting French, I explained
that my grandmother was from Quebec, and we instantly had something in common.
They knew even less English than I knew French, but none of us cared. It
was a wonderful time for all of us.
USA 10/07/2002
magic moment
My moment happened in Windsor. I was standing on the bridge between Eton
and Windsor,watching the boats along the river and the swans gracefully
paddling around. All the noise and chatter of other tourists seemed to just
disappear. it was so lovely and peaceful and I will never forget it.
melissa miller <email>
Oakland, ca USA 10/06/2002
Magic Moment....Venice, Italy
Although every minute you spend in Venice is a magic moment, there is one
that really stands out for my boyfriend and I during our last trip to Austria,
Germany and Venice. We were busy being happily lost in the maze of streets
that make up Venice. Most of the time, if a building is not a shop, the
doors are sealed and the windows are heavily dressed so that outsiders aren't
able to look in. We did come across one building, however where the sunlight
was streaming into the windows, which were dressed in white sheer panels
floating in the faint breeze. Inside this window was the most charming vignette:
it was of some pre-school children dressed in their school uniforms, each
spinning around in a circle waving their hands up in the air singing something
that sounded like,"Ziti, Ziti, Ziti Ziti Ziti"... Their leader was an older
nun, spinining around waving her hands and singing along with them, looking
just as happy and giggly as her class. I tried to discreetly take a picture
of the dancing nun and her students (I couldn't help myself) and I'm waiting
to see if if will turn out. Now when my boyfriend and I are feeling silly
we look at each other, we sing "Ziti, Ziti. Ziti Ziti Ziti, spin around
and wave our hands in the air...
Lisa Proctor <email>
IL USA 09/30/2002
Boys in the Louvre
We took our four boys (aged 8 to 15) to Paris. They are normal boys, much
more interested in soccer, video games, and burping noises than art. We
went to the Louvre with plans to follow Rick's Mona book and stay for about
two hours. They wouldn't leave; we stayed for six hours. I have an incredible
picture of one magical moment where the four of them stood gazing, awestruck,
at some picture or another. (I hope it won't disillusion anyone, but I must
add that in the middle of our day, we took a break and went across the street
to McDonald's for lunch.)
Karen <email>
NC USA 09/30/2002
Magic moments
I loved seeing the aurora borealis while flying to England at night. Helps
to sit on the left side of the plane. Or if you're flying back to US on
the right side of the plane.
Susan Langsley <email>
Portland, OR USA 09/29/2002
Hidden Garden
We stumbled on the newly-restored Greek garden at the Valley of the Temples
in Agrigiento, Sicily. The ticket-taker ahs some extra time and took us
on tour of ancient olive trees and caves where the Saracens hid from the
Normans. Almost no one knows about the garden, but we were glad we found
it!
Susan <email>
Brooklyn, NY USA 09/27/2002
Paris....
Ireland, France and England in 17 days with my girlfriend. One of the magical
moments was standing on the lawn staring at the Eiffel Tower lit up at night,
holding each others hand, realizing we were in the City of Love.
Eric <email>
San Jose, CA USA 09/24/2002
A Happy Birthday in Paris
I took my mother (who has never been to Europe) to Paris for her 80th birthday.
The French people were lovely to us everywhere we went. On the day of her
birthday we went to a small cafe on Rue Honor for our breakfast. I brought
the coffee and croissants to the table and in a very low voice sang "Happy
Birthday." To my left was a man who smiled. The man finished his coffee
and left, about 10 minutes later I saw this same man walking down the street
with two lovely long-stemmed roses. He walked into the cafe and presented
my mother and me each with a rose. We speak no French, He spoke no English.
But it was clear he wanted to wish my mother a wonderful birthday in Paris,
his city. With tears in her eyes she thanked him, they exchanged hugs and
kisses on both cheeks. Without a doubt this was a magical moment
Lisa <email>
seattle, wa USA 09/18/2002
special moment
We were in France and were going to the American Cemetery in Normandy. I
wanted to buy a large bouquet of flowers to put on the memorial there and
didn't really care much about the price. In my limited French, I told the
woman at the flower shop what I wanted. She made me HUGE, beautiful bouquet
that filled the backseat of our car and only charged me 20F for it--at the
time, about $4. She also wanted to thank the men that were there.
deb <email>
chicago, il USA 09/15/2002
Monterosso Memories
The day we arrived, we went to see the old part of Monterosso. When we came
out of the tunnel and entered the town we were amazed. The first thing we
heard was a shopkeeper admonishing a young couple. "Slow down!" he shouted
"You are in Italy." The other memory is the spontaneous soccer game that
sprung up right on main street. The policeman even joined in!
Barry <email>
Edmonton 09/14/2002
Magic Moments
A few years ago we were on a tour of Italy. We entered a cathedral in Ravenna
just as a bus load of young men arrived. Each was wearing a black tee shirt
with the logo Chartes Cathedral Boys Choir. They silently walked single
file to the altar area, formed a large semi-circle and started singing a
capella. What a marvelous and unexpected treat!
On another trip, this time to Switzerland, we were on the top of the
Stanzerhorn Mountain, just above the clouds. Far below we could hear the
many different cowbells - it was almost like music - we could hear them
but could not see them through the clouds.
Bob <email>
Chico, CA USA 09/10/2002
Moon over Menaggio - My boys and I had spent the day cruising Lake
Como and returned to Ostello La Primula Hostel. They headed to bed and I
sat on the balcony with a glass of wine watching the lights slowly blink
from the opposite shore. I turned slightly and caught a glimpse of the moon
rising -- huge and a vivid orange--downlake. I went upstairs and woke my
teenage sons (a dangerous practice)and the three of us hung out the window
staring at the moon and its reflection on the lake. No one spoke. They climbed
back into bed, and as I walked out the door, I heard a soft "Thanks, Mom".
USA 09/08/2002
Magic Moment - romance
My girlfriend and I were planning a trip to France for the summer - around
the same time I realized we need to move on in our relationship. So I took
a French class to learn the basics and bought a ring (which I kept in my
money belt). Then, in Paris I proposed to her on top of the Eiffel Tower
in French. One of the best memories both of us ever had!
Eriol <email>
Webster, TX USA 08/21/2002
Serenity in Scotland
I went to the British Open in Scotland in July, but my very favorite part
of the 11-day trip was the stunning drive from Perth to Braemar through
the Grampian Mountains. The main (and I think only) narrow road through
that section curved through some of the most beautiful scenery I have ever
seen! The mountains (tall hills) were tree bare and covered with grass and
sometimes sheep. And the River Dee - a high, flat river - wound quietly
along the road. So serene! It was late in the day when I were there and
the sun was low in the sky. I didn't see many other cars so it felt very
solitary - as though nobody was there but God and me. At one point, I even
had to stop the car and let a fat sheep cross the road. I turned on the
radio and a piper was playing a lonely tune on the bagpipes. Tears started
rolling down my cheeks. It was a magical moment. I knew then why I didn't
die in March when I had a heart attack. I survived it so I could make that
magical journey through the Grampian Mountains.
Susan McBrayer
Atlanta, GA USA 08/16/2002
Tour de France
I just returned from 3 weeks in France on a bike tour for 2 weeks. I stayed
over to watch a stage of the Tour de France. It was wonderful - but the
most magic moment occured on the way back to Grenoble about 50k from where
I was. I stopped for a coke at a Hypermarche and was headed out of the parking
lot when an old french cyclist came by and motioned to me I could draft
off his wheel. He proceeded to tell me in French what a fabulous day he
had - I understood enough of it and concurred - he wanted to take me for
a Perrier. But alas I had to get to my hotel to pack my bike and couldn't
take the over 70 year old up on it. C'est Dommage - It just made a magical
day more magical.
Amy Harman <email>
seattle, wa USA 08/14/2002
Finding Relatives in Czech Republic
Three months before my husband, Pete, and I left for Europe we hired a firm
to find out if I had any living relatives left in the Czech Republic. We
not only found them, we spent the whole day with them, along with the translator
of course! I will never forget that day in their tiny village as long as
I live. We didn't think we could eat, drink, talk or laugh as long as we
did. Rick is right - the best memories can't be bought and packed in a suitcase.
By the way, we used Rick's suggestions for the trains and places to stay
as we traveled from Amsterdam to the Czech Republic and thought they were
great!
Jeanne Theberath <email>
Apple Valley, MN USA 08/07/2002
Painting and politics in Spain
I'm outside the Reina Sofia museum in Madrid, where Picasso's "Guernica"
is. It's morning. There's a half moon in a deep blue sky over the museum,
exactly like in Miro's "House with Palm Tree" (which is on exhibition there
too). A man in a vet's blazer is holding a print of "Guernica" and demonstrating
in a loud voice. I have no idea what he's saying. Then the doors open. As
we walk in, the man starts crying "BAHHH BAHHH BAHH" like a sheep!
Dan <email>
BC Can 08/03/2002
Romance in Germany
Visiting Germany after a 15-year absence, I called a former boyfriend (still
single!) and he set up a 'welcome back' party for me with my old friends.
After everyone else had left we watched a spectacular sunset from his terrace
and talked until the stars came out, whereupon he swept me into his arms
for a romantic kiss under the Big Dipper. Swoon!
Kyra
Anchorage, AK USA 08/01/2002