http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog daily 1.0 2016-12-16 http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/11/23/september-28 monthly 0.5 2016-12-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1481932103701-MKY1MY8KOB0X73Q8B5F9/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Party Train to Prague Monique and Tony outside of our wonderful Munich apartment - time to move on to Prague. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1481931298155-T4W1LI59FDD6IX2FEOGC/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Party Train to Prague Just your everyday sight in Germany - 3 guys and a baby waiting for a train at Munich Hauptbahnhof. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1481931347925-3DQBDFMWT9K6W5IE7QPP/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Party Train to Prague Dave M provides outstanding entertainment for our journey to Prague. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1481931368414-OAAJ2UZEZUL7JLB3ACSF/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Party Train to Prague Dave M on mandolin, Monique providing base notes via Jambone. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1481931394769-E2R3HNJQAY8ZKG5EF5XL/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Party Train to Prague The "American" party car on the train to Prague http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/11/23/september-27 monthly 0.5 2016-12-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1481732646605-LHHRAX5OVHZYR9OW7QSU/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Getting High in Germany On the train ride to Garmisch-Partenkirchen we saw all these small hay barns (Heuschober). Some of these hay barns are over 100 years old and each of them is unique. The hay barns document how small scale family farms in this region still survive today. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1481732680173-V8X9W0F4UBD75MB3ZTAW/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Getting High in Germany We walked towards town from the train station and saw the Hofbraustuberl right by the edge of town. Sadly they weren’t open for lunch yet. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1481732699490-O0C7M6SIV6IQ5J37UI9R/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Getting High in Germany The Richard Strauss Fountain in the main pedestrian area in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Richard Georg Strauss (1864–1949) was a leading German composer and is known for his operas, which include Der Rosenkavalier, Elektra, Die Frau ohne Schatten and Salome - and his tone poems, including Don Juan, Death and Transfiguration, Till Eulenspiegel's Merry Pranks and sprach Zarathustra. Strauss was also a prominent conductor in Western Europe and the Americas, enjoying quasi-celebrity status as his compositions became standards of orchestral and operatic repertoire. Strauss moved to Garmisch-Partenkirchen in 1908 and lived there until his death in 1949. Incidentally, he composed the opening music for the 1936 Olympics with many winter events occurring in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1481733462558-VK1TYIEABM5I4O5N8ZUP/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Getting High in Germany This is a nice map detailing the various options for reaching the Zugspitze. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1481732720758-WL8VGLZ2P44G4VTUYNZL/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Getting High in Germany They brought this huge pile of snow down from the mountains - it made us excited for what we were going to see - maybe we should have brought cold-weather clothes with us. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1481732749718-5IWRNH5X9VJJROL6RDQC/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Getting High in Germany This is the end of the tunnel which marks the arrival at the Zugspitzplatt. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1481732785604-KEO4VG7YUG00XVPR3053/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Getting High in Germany The Zugspitze maypole - the world’s highest - and Tony carefully leaning over the edge to take a look. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1481732801384-NFCSWT0TKNKWGJGTO12H/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Getting High in Germany Tony climbing back up from his harrowing fall...ha ha https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1481732872857-B8ZVNUMYMOT3XSTQLPJK/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Getting High in Germany The Maria Heimsuchung Chapel, located close to the Zugspitze glacier has been defying wind and weather since it was built in 1981. The church received papal blessing in 1981, when the building was sanctified by the then archbishop, Cardinal Josef Ratzinger. This little house of God is a place of peace and reflection for all winter sports enthusiasts, glacier fans, sun worshippers and, of course, religious believers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1481923347782-D9KB6N1FM4C54X5ENDDN/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Getting High in Germany A nice view showing the lay of the land here on Zugspitzplatt - taken from just outside the chapel https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1481732888630-QH5KUI0FSV7ZUZRP4Y5V/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Getting High in Germany Taxi anyone? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1481732826097-11PEWFPTTABHJEQVS2DX/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Getting High in Germany Cool reflection photo of Monique looking out of the gondola taking us to the Zugspitze summit. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1481732914018-6PZ5QH1A22OW1SFAJUUN/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Getting High in Germany A birdseye view of the Zugspitzplatt - taken while riding up the gondola - it looks so tiny. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1481733036610-GBJ31JDLPQK3XMZJSAHL/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Getting High in Germany The Münchner Haus (2,959 m or 9,708 ft) was completed on September 19, 1897. From 1911-1914 the hut was extended and given its present appearance. It offer 30 beds for overnight stays and is open from May to October. An average of 2,000 people stay there each year, in addition to day visitors. We just ordered a beer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1481733165473-RVBZBCT85RWTMRQ5HDXK/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Getting High in Germany There's a good story behind this painting - just not sure what it is - but we like it! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1481733070740-7JN6MAQ16I8XKPE6Q791/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Getting High in Germany What a beautiful view of the mountains and cloud-filled sky. You can see some construction going on up here - now that's impressive - just think what it takes to get anything up this high! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1481733192464-ICQXEZY8YDVVFDM9UUQB/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Getting High in Germany A view of Dave's ascent to the very top. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1481733215876-UWB1S81CDXB5Z4F0N75U/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Getting High in Germany Yeah - No freeking way Monique was going to climb this - Dave is a nutter! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1481733236529-E8IUDS9KVBB4816Y6KM0/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Getting High in Germany The current cross put here in 1993 at the very top of Germany. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1481733497453-FH6FEFSGF7K6OM0438P7/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Getting High in Germany Dave chatting up some German residents and learning the meaning of "Hallodri". He was wearing his pin from Octoberfest and they all started to laugh. Notice that they are prepared for hiking and the weather and Dave, clearly, was not. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1481733534850-VIPIQNWELZZAJFRNOQFK/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Getting High in Germany Dave made it! After he got back to safety he said that now he's afraid of heights - go figure! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1481733422660-WHW58AK1HO022FT6D3B2/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Getting High in Germany On the top deck of the Eibsee Cable Car - looking down at Lake Eibsee. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1481733443041-W5QD1O4C9EL81WQY3AY9/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Getting High in Germany The Eibsee Cable Car has a length of 4,450 metres (14,600 ft) and an elevation gain of 1,950 metres (6,398 ft). It runs over two pylons, which are 65 metres (213 ft) and 85 metres (279 ft) high, respectively. The latter is the highest cable support pylon in Germany. The route is normally traveled in 10 minutes at a speed of 36 km/h (22 mph). The tramway can accommodate 300 persons per direction each hour. The elevation gain of 1,950 metres (6,398 ft) continues to be the highest of all aerial cableways achieved in a single section. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1481733668644-68NLQ8KDLQK6HXW9YQAV/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Getting High in Germany Am Kurpark Street (pedestrian street) in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. This pretty much sums up the pace of life here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1481733697790-T3N3F5I0SB0ZJRVKPOK9/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Getting High in Germany We wandered around the back-streets of the town. The architecture is very Alpine Bavarian in style with wooden balconies and frescoed exteriors. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1481923259291-75J7C7UG5N8ILOWFUE52/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Getting High in Germany Weiss beer break - don't mind if we do! http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/11/15/september-26 monthly 0.5 2016-11-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479923245865-TQ7Y467GKB8ZA70Z889H/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Order Liter of Beer. Drink. Repeat. The Breweries have their own fanciful horse drawn Carriages used to transport the Barrels of Beer to Oktoberfest. They have a parade at the festival opening and show them at various times during the 16 day fest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479923307409-GVWA1NTGG5N0H52F2JGX/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Order Liter of Beer. Drink. Repeat. Figure of Aloysius, "The man from Munich in heaven," decoration in the Hofbrau tent https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479923278793-V99Y3TDCA8WDJL78O45L/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Order Liter of Beer. Drink. Repeat. The Ochsenbraterei is located at the Oktoberfest in Munich. At the Ochsenbraterei ox meat is served in many inventively delicious ways and combinations. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479923333015-351CD12ARJLJTGEKC837/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Order Liter of Beer. Drink. Repeat. This is inside the Ochsenbraterei tent. It has a seating capacity of 5,900 persons inside the tent and 1,500 persons outside. The brewery is Spaten. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479923354305-IG15Y6LQSKC6XM1WXYVV/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Order Liter of Beer. Drink. Repeat. Inside the Augustiner tent. The capacity is 6,000 inside and 2,500 outside. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479923370640-30NSM6IMLMY9Q0RZNIVF/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Order Liter of Beer. Drink. Repeat. Inside the Pauliner tent. “Gemuetlichkeit” (relaxed fun feeling) is a very important feature of the tent, and the proprietors Helga and Willi Kreitmair ensure that stays that way. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479923392708-UVA5EQBRGYVAYOJ6SZ0Z/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Order Liter of Beer. Drink. Repeat. This is a huge party for someone - we are thinking maybe a wedding. The entire tent has a capacity of 8,450 inside and 2,450 outside. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479923421052-Q100DMHFLSGSFEU25NO1/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Order Liter of Beer. Drink. Repeat. Bavaria is the name given to this monumental, bronze 19th-century statue. It is a female personification of the Bavarian homeland, and by extension its strength and glory. The statue is part of an ensemble which also includes a hall of fame (Ruhmeshalle) and a stairway. It was commissioned by Ludwig I of Bavaria. It was cast at the Munich foundry of J.B. Stiglmair between 1844 and 1850 and is the first colossal statue since Classical Antiquity to consist entirely of cast bronze. It was and is up to the present day considered a technological masterpiece. It is 18.52 metres (60 ft. 9 in.) high and weighs about 87.36 tons. It rests on a stone base which is 8.92 (28 ft.) metres high. An internal circular staircase leads up to a platform in the head, where four openings in the helmet provide a view of the Theresienwiese and downtown Munich. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479923508071-QQ82BTFFVNNVIT85A5PD/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Order Liter of Beer. Drink. Repeat. The Hacker-Pshorr tent is where we decided we would stay - there's really good beer here. The slogan is integral to the Hacker-Festzelt philosophy: when surrounded by clouds and stars with a cold Maß (liter of beer) in the hand, you may feel as though you are truly in a "Bavarian Heaven". The capacity is 9,300 people! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479923451781-1USJQCQ1RT6K1TU9SAVC/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Order Liter of Beer. Drink. Repeat. Big D, Rebecca and Nicole https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479923469833-PJN6DBRLLHRXZH0ZBBB4/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Order Liter of Beer. Drink. Repeat. Tony and Alex. Two brothers from another mother. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479923551965-O2UY2PMIEG0MWLZEQAB8/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Order Liter of Beer. Drink. Repeat. Monique and Tony - may our steins always be full. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479923602235-01GCRKFWPELHRHVGH4DC/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Order Liter of Beer. Drink. Repeat. A view of the Octoberfest grounds at night - we were in the giant ferris wheel ride. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479923626558-XHN4V1AQJ431JSVEYUWX/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Order Liter of Beer. Drink. Repeat. Tony and Monique trying to avoid losing more elbow skin on the way down the Toboggan ride. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479923641452-KPC5LHENAUAN0QE8MBBS/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Order Liter of Beer. Drink. Repeat. Let's do a shot of Schnapps! http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/11/15/september-25 monthly 0.5 2016-11-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479847948765-O8OVYENXI5VK29H1SKF2/P1090266-sm.jpg Blog - The Münchner Kindl and Rathaus The exit from the Metro gets us right into Marianplatz (Mary’s Square). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479848142615-A5ZK7KAZMVPT54ZOSZPS/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Münchner Kindl and Rathaus Lining one entire side of the square is the impressive facade of the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus). It has a 280-foot spire and was built between 1867-1908. This hall is famous for its glockenspiel. A carillon in the tower chimes a tune while colorful figurines come out on the balcony to spin and dance. We missed the lunchtime action so we must return later to see it. It rings at 11:00, 12:00 and 5:00pm (we saw it at 5:00). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479848207159-H8W9WEK690HI6GH34TQ0/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Münchner Kindl and Rathaus At the very top of the spire is a statue of a child with outstretched arms, dressed in monk’s garb and holding a book in its left hand. This is the Münchner Kindl, the symbol of Munich. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479848230917-3UFION25SP7RSC2Z998N/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Münchner Kindl and Rathaus Dave Moynihan (DM) hears some music so he wanders off through an archway which leads to the Rathaus courtyard and in the hallway is a guy playing a section of the four seasons by Vivaldi on his concertina. What a crazy coincidence - this is the song DM has been practicing on his mandolin for an upcoming gig. Go figure. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479848285272-BL0CFCR3643GHO60NO00/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Münchner Kindl and Rathaus Back in the square you can see a golden statue at the top of the column in the center of Marienplatz that honors the square’s namesake, the Virgin Mary. It was sculpted in 1590 and has been a rallying point in the religious wars of the Reformation. Back then, Munich was a bastion of southern-German Catholicism and they fought against the heresies of Martin Luther to the north. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479848348194-CMP632PE2OI26XJUYFDM/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Münchner Kindl and Rathaus At the four corners of the statue are cherubs that fight against the enemies of civilization: the dragon of war (lower left), the lion of hunger (lower right), the rooster-headed monster of plague and disease (upper left), and the serpent that represents heresy—the Protestants (upper right). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479848818253-1RRL7GJDHW9I0GQCQKJ2/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Münchner Kindl and Rathaus To the right of the New Town Hall is the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus). It is a gray pointy building with the green spires. It has the city seal on its bell tower. On it there is the Münchner Kindl (symbolizing the first monks), a castle (representing the first fortifications), and a lion (representing the first ruler—Henry the Lion, who built them). What is amazing is the fact that the Allies bombed Marienplatz and much of Munich during World War II. Most of the buildings had to be rebuilt. The Old Town Hall looks newer now because it was completely destroyed by bombs and had to be rebuilt after the war. The New Town Hall survived the bombs, and it served as the US military headquarters after the Americans occupied Munich in 1945. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479876399649-X4PSEK79FDKW9LD6RD6K/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Münchner Kindl and Rathaus Next stop is St. Peter’s Church which is the oldest church in town. St. Peter’s stands on the hill where Munich’s original monks probably settled—perhaps as far back as the ninth century. This church was built in 1368 and replaced the original monastery church. “Old Peter” to locals, is part of the soul of the city. On the outside walls of the church are tombstones plastered onto the wall. They are from the 16th- and 17th-centuries and at that time people were buried in the holy ground around the church. In the Napoleonic age, the cemeteries were dug up and relocated outside the city. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479876653899-GGYFYLEL3NP2CWOJCSGH/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Münchner Kindl and Rathaus Once inside you see the ceiling painting that looks like it opens up to the heavens and Peter is crucified upside down. The nave is lined with large bronze statues of the of the apostles. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479876704202-KFVUYVK24NZ6XD8P5G2Z/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Münchner Kindl and Rathaus On the left side is a naive with a jewel encrusted skeleton in a box. The Latin inscription says, this is St. Munditia. In the fourth century, she was beheaded by the Romans for her Christian faith. Munich has more relics of saints than any city outside Rome. In 1675, St. Munditia’s remains were given to Munich by the Pope as thanks for the city’s devoted service. Not something you see everyday. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479876822592-A0V3UZT8VIZ0GH17NA20/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Münchner Kindl and Rathaus Next we stroll through the Viktualienmarkt. Its main landmark is a blue-and-white striped maypole. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479876915309-9MDF1LY9GXS02LA5M96R/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Münchner Kindl and Rathaus Munich has been a market town since its earliest days when it was a stop on the salt-trade crossroads. By the 1400s, the market was busy with activity. Munich is also known for beer, and by the 15th century more than 30 breweries were active. The beer was brewed by monks, who were licensed to sell it - this is all starting to make sense now! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479876968547-FNCJNC6GDYBO2ZXDV3DA/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Münchner Kindl and Rathaus We stop at the beer garden in the shade of the chestnut trees and order a pretzel and a beer. It’s Sunday and the weather is perfect so we take our time. Ein Prosit Tony! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479877178263-NPO5QDOY1D1EPFKEWUKO/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Münchner Kindl and Rathaus Next on the route is the modern Jewish Synagogue. In the 1930s, about 10,000 Jews lived in Munich. In 1938, Hitler’s regime tore down a synagogue that was close to this location. By the end of World War II, Munich’s Jewish community was gone. Germany then accepted religious refugees from former Soviet states and the Jewish population has now reached its pre-war size. The new synagogue was built in 2006. There’s also a kindergarten and day school, playground, fine kosher restaurant (at #18), and a bookstore. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479877365112-80W9QEP1X55RHM7MOHB8/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Münchner Kindl and Rathaus An amazing stop is Asam Church (Asamkirche). It was built in 1740 by two brothers. It is small—only thirty feet wide—but it is packed with every architectural technique possible. The Asam brothers were two of Bavaria’s top artisans of the time. This place is a Baroque masterpiece without a doubt. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479877395321-3GCJPX05PZKZR1JQ5WES/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Münchner Kindl and Rathaus The Asam Church was built right next to their office so they could showcase their work to potential clients. Now it is a public place of worship. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479880240260-NR3E3RIGWO72YAHVAZ5R/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Münchner Kindl and Rathaus We walk down the Kaufinger Strasse. This pedestrian-only street leads you through a shopping district with cheap department stores, carnivals of street entertainers, and anything else you can think of. As far back as the 12th century, this was the town’s main commercial street. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479880341186-3IV3C2QCO936VXH5XXQ2/P1090360-sm.jpg Blog - The Münchner Kindl and Rathaus Traders from Salzburg and Augsburg would enter the town through Sendlinger Tor. The 1972 Olympics transformed this part of Munich—the whole area around Marienplatz was pedestrianized and the transit system expanded. Approximately 9000 people pass through it every hour. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479880412552-PH4UX8KSZXN94S514YS7/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Münchner Kindl and Rathaus We take pictures of the wild boar and catfish statues in front of the German Hunting and Fishing Museum - hey, it’s Big D! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479880755523-SA74FC4NIN347KY0ELTK/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Münchner Kindl and Rathaus We go into St. Michael’s Church and the pipe organ is being played which is a delight to the ears. This is one of the first great Renaissance buildings north of the Alps. Its ornate facade and sloping roofline gets its inspiration from the Gesù Church in Rome—home of the Jesuit order. Jesuits saw themselves as the intellectual defenders of Catholicism. St. Michael’s was built in the late 1500s—at the height of the Protestant Reformation—to serve as the northern outpost of the Jesuits. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479880822113-C2GTNHHU9ADTHT5K10RU/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Münchner Kindl and Rathaus Appropriately, the facade of St. Michael’s Church features a statue of St. Michael fighting a demon. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479880961859-HKSZ0VM089S5MSUZT5KT/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Münchner Kindl and Rathaus We turn left on Augustiner Strasse, which leads to Munich’s towering, twin-domed cathedral called the Frauenkirche’s domes. They are doing renovations so the tower bases are covered. These two domes are the inspiration for the domed church spires that mark villages all over Bavaria. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479881019568-RI67VOID357M4ADVDO9G/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Münchner Kindl and Rathaus We make our way to the glockenspiel and catch the 5:00 pm ringing of the bells and the mechanized dancers. It is humorous to see all the cell phones come up to record the event. It looks like a rock concert. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479881111702-2MSIHP9XLOX5D3JAOJT3/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Münchner Kindl and Rathaus Now we walk over to the Hofbrauhaus for food and a couple of liters of Bavarian gold. The original brewery was built here in 1583. It was the Wittelsbachs’ personal brewery, to make the “court brew” (Hof Brau). In 1880, the brewery moved out and they created a 5,000-seat, food-and-beer palace. After being bombed in World War II, the Hofbräuhaus was one of the first places to be rebuilt. We find a table and have beers in hand. We order Schweinebraten, Spanferkel and Braumeistersteak and eat everything. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479881179196-730EQTH6ETC817706SWW/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Münchner Kindl and Rathaus After our meal, we wander over to watch the house band play traditional German music and vie for a better table in the front room. There is a group of Italians up there making a lot of noise. We move twice until we are at a table right next to the band. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479881195533-LUV1V7UCMMGLYNOR4RL0/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Münchner Kindl and Rathaus We start talking to our new table-mates—a group of Germans that just returned from Detroit. As we are chatting, a very, very large German man in full traditional garb steps on Dave D’s (DD) shoe softly as he goes by and gives him a smile. When the German Giant makes his way back, Dave puffs up his chest and pushes into his very large belly. He doesn’t budge at all - it’s like DD is pushing up against a wall. The giant laughs and puts his tree trunk of a leg on our table and proceeds to lay out a mound of snuff. He points to DD and says, “Do it.” DD doesn’t miss a beat and snorts as much as he can in one nostril and then fills the other—and the surrounding group starts to laugh. There is still a lot more left on his leg when one of the “Detroit” Germans gets up and finishes the final snort off this leg. Now the whole area is laughing hard because this shit is funny. Our Giant gives DD a big bear hug and whispers in his ear, “Welcome to Octoberfest, and enjoy your time.” He waves his hand goodbye and disappears into the crowd. A true bridge is built between the Germans and the Americans. We finish our beers and go into the store to buy some swag. We eventually walk out into the street and begin our search for the Metro. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479881859102-7FMRWRW60FNJXE5A93UW/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Münchner Kindl and Rathaus We decide we are not quite ready to end the night so we head over to The Royal Dolores Munich Pub & Bar in the Rathaus and have one last beer for the road. This place is really low-key—which helps us wind down— and now we are ready to go so we get the U3 and head for home. Another fun beer drinking day in Munich. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/9/24/september-24 monthly 0.5 2016-11-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479276321567-J0CZ9A9LV5N2LEQ6TQ6V/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Mass Quantities of Oktoberfest Beer DM picking up the staples at the supermarket - look at the size of that beer - I think it was 2 euros https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479277323362-ONFN7GCCY6TZAT5EPIC1/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Mass Quantities of Oktoberfest Beer Who knew this was a huge carnival too - Oktoberfest is amazing - there's no festival like it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479277333496-J2PL46BN3MJT2FQK2QJT/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Mass Quantities of Oktoberfest Beer Maybe later - or maybe not. Either way it's a beautiful day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479276545533-90DU0EQ7M4WGS32IPI7O/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Mass Quantities of Oktoberfest Beer This is the tent we finally find a table to sit at. This place is packed! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479276590939-PJAXIUEZ9CEWWWVTHXFW/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Mass Quantities of Oktoberfest Beer The group at table 12. We got lucky and these awesome people let us share their table. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479276401015-O5LA9H5S1F0O7QPIWKSX/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Mass Quantities of Oktoberfest Beer Tony (Dave) with our new German friends. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479277352039-H6PRI0PQ0GZWGBO56GIP/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Mass Quantities of Oktoberfest Beer We need another round. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479276565310-X0LW7L3YTD0TUW5TVI20/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Mass Quantities of Oktoberfest Beer That's e-snuff! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479277370266-R2EXGWDUTX1ZNCI32X9W/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Mass Quantities of Oktoberfest Beer Ginger, Monique and Maryanne - notice the pissoir in the background. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479276499911-O497RD0JTV8G2K0LB5A1/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Mass Quantities of Oktoberfest Beer Big D or Dave M - we finally got in the tent! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479277490463-5G655T5JTADEW70V4UP5/P1090222-sm.jpg Blog - Mass Quantities of Oktoberfest Beer Inside the tent is where the party is really happening. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479277507774-XL35TGDMGAIZZ3P51M7Y/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Mass Quantities of Oktoberfest Beer We got up close - right by the stage - no easy task I assure you. "Sweet Caroline - oh oh oh" http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/9/23/september-23-we-double-in-size monthly 0.5 2016-11-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479080546266-BSY9PJDBT14BLYRQPJRL/image-asset.jpeg Blog - When 2 Becomes 4 This is the view from our apartment looking down on the street. That is Easy's seat every morning - just under the life preserver. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479080571904-K0OR1XQ1H05RBKYNA4UO/image-asset.jpeg Blog - When 2 Becomes 4 "Easy," or the "Captain," giving Dave a history lesson while they wait for their coffee to arrive - there's no rush. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479080655273-MXKBBQFNW40KY6CKXJER/image-asset.jpeg Blog - When 2 Becomes 4 Monique is smiling because there are only 3 flights of stairs left to climb to reach the gate. It's a good thing our bags are carry-on size. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479080605309-1JMAEE18DP7OJXLI1WD7/image-asset.jpeg Blog - When 2 Becomes 4 The Buza gate when you exit Old Town Dubrovnik. We will miss the Pearl of the Adriatic. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479080625720-W9WO9ZEJ0RHPM6TIUT25/image-asset.jpeg Blog - When 2 Becomes 4 It's a nice, sunny and clear day - the best for flying. In Europe it seems that most planes are boarded outside, directly on the tarmac - maybe it's more efficient? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1479080713668-FFWNV850R7IRO3I7UFKR/image-asset.jpeg Blog - When 2 Becomes 4 This was riding around the carousel as we were waiting for our bags in Munich - pretty cool. We are getting excited to meet up with Tony and Dave to transform our 2 person travel team to 4. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/9/22/september-22-1 monthly 0.5 2016-11-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1475477567781-6IUMV91E2U8EW4GBC7IM/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A boat, a Bus and Foot Power It starts at the Pile gate (Gradska Vrata Gate). Above the entrance is a sculpture of St. Blaise (Sveti Vlaho in Croatian). He is Dubrovnik's Patron Saint https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1478817357932-HQ5QW9TFVZ9NE9SJSEPP/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A boat, a Bus and Foot Power Just inside the gate there is a giant round structure called Onofrio's Big Fountian (Velika Onofrijea Fontana). In the Middle Ages Dubrovnik had an aqueduct that brought water from the mountains seven miles away. Having plenty of water, huge salt reserves and a large granary to store food made Dubrovnik very siege resistant. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1478811007105-P7SOFVAKQ0OQ54C69MRJ/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A boat, a Bus and Foot Power Next to the stairway leading to the top of the wall is The Church of St. Savior (Crkva Svetog Spasa). This small church was built by the town’s people to thank god after an earthquake in 1520. In 1667 another massive earthquake destroyed Dubrovnik and this was the only building left intact. During the recent war a bomb exploded right in front of the church and left shrapnel pockmarks on the church facade. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1478815551391-8O5PM2LAWN5CDKP72QC6/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A boat, a Bus and Foot Power To the right of the church is the Franciscan Monastery Museum. It has a baroque interior like all the churches in Dubrovnik. They were all rebuilt after the 1667 earthquake. You can tour the building to see the cloister. More interesting is the fact that it houses one of Europe’s oldest continually operating pharmacies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1478815856259-CWSPR19Y5NQDO7F5WTEV/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A boat, a Bus and Foot Power The poor people of Dubrovnik worshiped here while the “Dominican Church" (down at the far end of the Stradun) was for the wealthy. The tower is integrated into the structure of building. This is very different than other towers in Croatia. The Venetian convention was the standard. Dubrovnik and Venice were powerful maritime rivals so of course Dubrovnik had to make a statement. Its tower doesn't follow the convention. They are a proud people. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1478815949038-SN1LI6HA4FOR33CZE14Y/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A boat, a Bus and Foot Power We walk down Dubrovnik’s main promenade — officially called the Placa, but better known as the Stradun. In the seventh century, this street was a canal. Romans lived on the island of Ragusa on the right side. The Slavs settled on the shore. In the 11th century, the canal separating Ragusa from the mainland was filled in. The towns merged, and a unique Slavic-Roman culture and language was born. For much of its history, Dubrovnik was forced to pay a hefty tribute to the sultan of the Ottoman Empire to maintain its independent status. Thus they hid their wealth and to avoid more taxes Dubrovnik down played its display of wealth in its buildings. They are all pretty plain. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1478816106055-Z2EV0HLK0I5A9B8XPXCM/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A boat, a Bus and Foot Power We stop at Orlando’s Column (Orlandov Stup). Dubrovnik erected the column in 1417, soon after it had shifted allegiances from the oppressive Venetians to the Hungarians. By putting a northern European symbol in the middle of its most prominent square, Dubrovnik distanced itself from Venice. Whenever a decision was made by the Republic, the town crier came to the column and announced the news. The step he stood on indicated the importance of his message. The higher up, the more important the news. It was also used to punish people publicly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1478817460882-OV92VX70E024AXGTQXK0/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A boat, a Bus and Foot Power In front of us is the Sponza Palace (Sponza-Povijesni Arhiv). This building, from 1522, is the finest surviving example of Dubrovnik’s Golden Age in the 15th and 16th centuries. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1478817897970-JXBR2U1LDX49HDEVDHAA/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A boat, a Bus and Foot Power To the right of Sponza Palace is the town’s Bell Tower (Gradski Zvonik). The original dated from 1444, but it was rebuilt when it started to lean in the 1920's. Next to the tower is the entrance to the Sloboda movie theater (the rainy-day location for cultural events in the summer). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1478818331892-QNVGPE93C6WAUEWELLZT/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A boat, a Bus and Foot Power This is Onofrio’s Little Fountain (Mala Onofrijea Fontana) built in 1442. The purpose of the small fountain was to supply the market on the Luza square with water. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1478818691667-AUQC61Y6O4SEO83UVDKS/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A boat, a Bus and Foot Power There is a big building beyond the fountain and that is City Hall (Vijećnica). It is the only 19th-century building inside the Old Town. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1478818953580-OR8PSSRVC8VHTVRROPJQ/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A boat, a Bus and Foot Power In the same square is the St. Blaise’s Church (Crkva Sv. Vlaha), dedicated to the patron saint of Dubrovnik. You’ll see statues and paintings of St. Blaise all over town, always holding a model of the city in his left hand. According to legend, a millennium ago St. Blaise came to a local priest in a dream and warned him that the up-and-coming Venetians would soon attack the city. The priest alerted the authorities, who prepared for war. Of course, the prediction came true. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1478819466119-IP2RBFBQM5D3E3MY0FW0/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A boat, a Bus and Foot Power St. Blaise’s Church was built following the 1667 earthquake and fire. And, while we’ve heard plenty on this walk about Dubrovnik’s rivalry with Venice, there’s no denying that this church is Venetian in its design. Dubrovnik invited a Venetian architect to design the church because they were getting along at that time. It looks like it belongs in a Venetian canal and even has the typical bulbous dome. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1478820182169-AJ58T4OOGVA1OCLSDHY4/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A boat, a Bus and Foot Power When our history lesson is done we walk to the Old Harbor. We want to catch a ferry to Cavtat, a nearby resort town tucked into a horseshoe shaped harbor. It is a quiet and beautiful harbor with restaurants and small stores. We try to buy tickets but the ferry does not take credit cards - it leaves in 15 minutes so we run to get cash at an ATM. The last ferry back leaves at six so we only would have two hours to explore. Rather than be rushed to leave the town, we choose to take the bus back because they run late into the night. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1478820233508-2UT6ZLMY2T6CWA8GJMTT/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A boat, a Bus and Foot Power The weather is perfect and the open air ferry is a nice way to travel. The seas are not rough so the ride is pretty smooth. This is a nice perspective of the Old Town. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1478820446592-E3KB3JG0A460YJEEU518/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A boat, a Bus and Foot Power It takes about forty minutes before we pull up along the sea wall in Cavtat. There are two very large yachts backed into the small harbor. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1478820543724-GM0U7279JZNYW7YGO1PF/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A boat, a Bus and Foot Power Cavtat is small and very laid back. We walk the harbor looking for some food. At the end we find a nicer looking place called Konoba "Galija." Their speed matches the feel of the harbor - slow. When the food does arrive it is worth the wait. It’s late in the afternoon so this will be our dinner too. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1478820687726-DPAK7OGNHEPR4TLO2SJA/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A boat, a Bus and Foot Power We walk away full and follow the stone paved path up the hill - the town is small so it doesn’t take long to reach the top of it. We see some newer brick houses that are pretty nice then turn right and continue to follow the path. There are only people's homes along the path - no stores or shops. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1478820843815-MLK61V8R54OZ96WXLOKU/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A boat, a Bus and Foot Power We see a very large abandoned property that we could buy and remodel - Monique says it’s a dozer. We feed a blind cat a sausage that we kept from our lunch - it’s eye sockets looked empty. There are a lot of cats wandering around so rather than throw the food away we planned to share. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1478820907694-GVVMQZZA15W0A7ANDDKF/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A boat, a Bus and Foot Power The path leads back down to the harbor at of the other end of town where we go into a church. The interior is very different than others we have seen. Most of the ornamentation is hanging on the walls, rather than built into the structure of the building - sort of like an after-thought. We come back out and go around the corner where we see a busy street going the other direction. We can see another harbor on the backside so we walk in that direction. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1478820972894-7G0W1OE191JTQ1SOT87X/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A boat, a Bus and Foot Power On the corner is an information office so we go in and ask where to catch the bus. The woman points to the side of the building and tells us no ticket is needed - you pay on the bus. We need more information so we go to a bus that is out there and the driver tells us that this is not the bus to Dubrovnik. There is a bus office so we go in and learn that they come very half hour and it will say Dubrovnik on the front (why couldn’t the lady in the TI office tell us that?). We find a table outside along the harbor with a view of the busses and order a rum and coke. When you order a drink you are given just the alcohol in the glass with ice - you have to order the mixer separately. She asks us if we want one coke or two. We order one to share and make our drink. No sooner do we take a sip and our bus shows up. It’s sunny with a nice harbor view so we decide to take the next bus. Why rush. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1478819607459-CMVQXBDQ5MUUX95ALI6R/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A boat, a Bus and Foot Power The next bus comes in only fifteen minutes so we quickly pay for our drinks and get on the bus. It makes four or five stops along the way before stopping at the top of Dubrovnik - by the cable car lift. We don't get off because we think it will go to the Pile gate stop where many busses stop. We are going past Old Town - not stopping at Pile gate - so we exit the bus at the next stop and learn we need to walk uphill quite far to get get back. Our legs are strong so it’s not a problem. As we are walking, we strike up a conversation with a couple from England who made the same mistake as us. In no time we are back in the walled city and stop at the grocery store for beer. We arrive in our temporary home and turn on the TV. We take a break before getting back to work on the blog. We are catching up and it feels good. Tomorrow we fly to Munich to meet Dave and Tony. We hope their flights go well. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/9/22/sept-21 monthly 0.5 2016-09-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474638570041-GX4V468YS5C4CLBTB0Y8/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Pebble Beach of St. Jakob Looking back at Old Town and the harbor as we head out for a beach. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474638598869-G2SE49UM4AZT0H4WBMA4/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Pebble Beach of St. Jakob On the way to the beach we walked past this compound that was full of Moorish and Moroccan design influences. It is the only blue domed building we have seen since we left Greece. This place is impressive - I wonder who owns it? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474638812147-MNF3E1LCMY6W0OYGZ96W/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Pebble Beach of St. Jakob We thought this lane looked like it could be in Italy - they are just on the other side of the Adriatic after all. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474638735227-Y273ICJYRO7VQ91TM1CG/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Pebble Beach of St. Jakob St. Jakob beach is tucked in the cove just around the corner. The Adriatic is calm today. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474638712758-E809APBCUBH6W6VSQDM2/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Pebble Beach of St. Jakob We fount it! This is St. Jakob’s church. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474638618971-IGZSP5PZQ37WK1EJMYYT/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Pebble Beach of St. Jakob This is the communist era compound we found. It’s crumbling and we think it’s a valuable piece of property just wasting away. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474638862980-TPB23ODINQ4Y5RFBOS36/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Pebble Beach of St. Jakob We realized we must have missed the staircase heading down to the beach so we backtrack. This is our little group of beach-goers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474638836597-KV3ZA6NX0RMZ11Y7RO6Y/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Pebble Beach of St. Jakob We can see a new view of Old Town from the beach - it looks far away, but it only took us about 25 minutes to walk here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474639383031-VPH31IW3Q0B6MHPFOMM9/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Pebble Beach of St. Jakob St Jacob’s Beach, a nice little cove with a mostly pebbly beach. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474638688544-W9WTCNZ1JEX9737ZT9NW/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Pebble Beach of St. Jakob Dave’s “pointless” turtle getting ready to swim to sea. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474638901661-NKYQ1P4DDHS4D2M2QWMQ/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Pebble Beach of St. Jakob Heading back we take one last look at the beach and restaurant - it was a nice, refreshing break. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474638757517-DTAXMC9CEFHFCRV0DWMW/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Pebble Beach of St. Jakob This is just one of those things you see when you are walking around - it’s kind of a simple solution for blocking out the mid-day sun. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474638777105-0TXK1JI4P2MUP2CM60UE/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Pebble Beach of St. Jakob The hole in the wall we need to walk through to get to Buza Bar. You can see how thick the wall facing the sea is. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474638919356-PHIUEVVJMZQ7E0ODE6B8/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Pebble Beach of St. Jakob Two Croatian beers please. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474638941920-36URPVHSI3U104KWBVJF/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Pebble Beach of St. Jakob Another amazing sunset courtesy of Dubrovnik, Croatia. Simply amazing. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/9/20/september-20 monthly 0.5 2016-09-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474582312729-1ZKI8PUR1KWD1RPFPPZ7/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Game of Thrones - Kings Landing The meaty portion of our lunch. The restaurant Arka Jelovnik, is right out our door - how convenient! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474582793907-4PUWRW4B5RTI1RYM0TOK/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Game of Thrones - Kings Landing Our Game of Thrones guide - a Jamie Lanister look alike. One nice thing he had for us were flip booklets which showed stills from scenes in the show. This really helped everyone recognize the filming locations. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474582892378-FJYEV0JFHZ6B6VUY94LR/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Game of Thrones - Kings Landing This is where Cersei’s men were looking for and murdering any of King Robert’s bastards. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474582960929-JYNO1HNAVBT04KT4I9UI/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Game of Thrones - Kings Landing You can see Little Finger walking here. This is also the place where Cersei puts Little Finger in his place. At her command, Cerise’s guards seize Lord Baelish to kill him and at the last second she commands them to stop - where she quickly explains the “power is power”. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474583071621-2XMKZ1KVPVJFYBT537KX/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Game of Thrones - Kings Landing The beginning of Cerise’s walk of shame. These are the stairs right outside of our apartment. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474583139837-QZH701N8WKLQS47U1Q74/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Game of Thrones - Kings Landing This is the meeting between Shae, Sansa, and Petyr Baelish at the docks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474583239923-BCPEOQ9CICBR2CE1JEB9/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Game of Thrones - Kings Landing This is is the scene where Myrcella leaves on a boat for Dorne. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474583321294-AOS06X9H2FDE30J6WULA/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Game of Thrones - Kings Landing Another walk of shame scene. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474583465753-S17Q4MTI0FD5X5PKWL21/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Game of Thrones - Kings Landing I would be a good ruler if I sat on the Iron Throne. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474583529961-Z4SML9FPUYIMQVR9D2II/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Game of Thrones - Kings Landing The main street at night when most people are away - a very different scene than during the day. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/9/20/september-19 monthly 0.5 2016-09-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474534565834-BW26M6AH5M6JSZEV0KEM/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Walled City The small farmers market that appears every morning in the square outside our apartment. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474534644776-M9XDOHRE1G1J28X7FDIW/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Walled City Dave’s mission for the morning - get that laundry done. Monique fashioned this backpack - making it a bit easier to carry the clothes up the many stairs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474534766848-R3EYW27QNVNTDZLAGAIW/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Walled City This is the staircase that get’s you to the wall pathway - from there it’s one way - to the left. In the background you can see Minčeta Tower. The tower was completed in 1464 and became the symbol of the unconquerable city of Dubrovnik. Since Minčeta Tower is the highest point of the wall, it is considered to offer a seemingly "unforgettable" view on the city. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474534881477-IETJFTN4H4IZJJRD8VW7/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Walled City The view is really incredible. From here you can see the main street (Placa Stradun) and a cistern built in 1311 called Great Onofrio’s Fountain. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474534999183-91OVQ0TL1HF17B0PVM1W/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Walled City The cliffs along the Adriatic Sea helped with the cities’ defenses. They built the walls above the high rocks. These walls are 1.5 to 5 meters (5–16 feet) thick, depending on their location and its strategic importance. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474535058196-CYTBGG4SQVFP9FRZQFBQ/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Walled City If you watch Game of Thrones, you will recognize this as King’s Landing. Fort Bokar is on the right and Fort St. Lawrence is on the left. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474536181718-M9CTUFP0DQD3C2OESK9D/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Walled City The old port. The most prominent portion of the harbor are the three enormous arches (the fourth original arch was walled in) of a large arsenal built in the late 12th century and enlarged in the latter part 15th century. The harbor is also the oldest shipyard within the city and is still in use today. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474535350891-5GV1Q0NPNRQM0EN2FVMA/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Walled City We are on the opposite side of the town about 3/4 of the way around the wall. They must have some kind of building code here where you must use orange roof tiles, stone walls and green paint for your doors, iron work and shutters. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474535416710-7RYTYFNOHL2LHLKYLBWG/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Walled City The fountain at Madame Pi Pi’s letting you know you are at the right place. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474535462767-NAB0DDFJWSGIKB0Q4C44/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Walled City This is the view from our table at Madam Pi Pi. The skies are clearing up which is good for us. If it rains, this restaurant does not open. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/9/20/september-18 monthly 0.5 2016-09-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474451785333-1ZBK9XGI50D1NRVMN6P1/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Jewel of the Adriatic Our plane from Athens to Dubrovnik. It’s about a two hour flight and the weather looks great for flying. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474451854090-2V9O5BFAF7HTJQZP5LF7/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Jewel of the Adriatic There are no cars allowed inside Dubrovnik’s Old Town. It is a walled city that has been frozen in time. This is Buza Gate where we entered the city. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474451989221-E29BTE8ZDGSMU9ZQPKF9/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Jewel of the Adriatic As you get closer to the wall, you get a peek at the orange tiled roofs of the old city. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474452103615-2HRMMLK8CX1QHM7R2RZV/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Jewel of the Adriatic It’s a long way down carrying your bags. Going back up will be even longer I think. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474452196225-AP8UZRN4W2KNM7OGOVAM/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Jewel of the Adriatic The door to our apartment. Our door opens up to a square, many restaurants and a busy pedestrian walkway. We are right in the thick of it - awesome! http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/9/19/september-17 monthly 0.5 2016-09-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474408065182-MGZ91KFLQYI6MHV8186H/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Acropolis in One Hour Our high speed ferry to Athens - this is how the Greeks get around. (As well as us "visitors") https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474407997091-O8103QOHZV9HZZMOJZLG/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Acropolis in One Hour The view from our hotel balcony (The Hilton Athens). We used points and dollars - love it! We could see the Acropolis (blueish-gray hill on the left) and this really awesome sculpture in the park across from the hotel. Dromeas, also called “The Runner,” is a 30 foot statue made from stacked plates of glass that connote speed. It was created in 1994 by Greek sculpture Costas Varotsos and stands in the Hilton square on Vassilissis Sofias Avenue in Athens, Greece. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474408155672-CDAC5JBHHF9HJNW7QY6D/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Acropolis in One Hour The entrance to the Parthenon - we made it! This is the West gate of the 3rd century A.D. fortification. You can see the Monument of Agrippa here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474408235674-FFW8C28MNAJZDNM5AMIV/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Acropolis in One Hour In the foreground (the rubble) you can see the Old Temple of Athena and the buildings in the background are the Erechtheion with the Kore Porch (Porch of the Maidens) and Pandroseion. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474408322996-QI8RVXGFFZPWGM9GVTYM/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Acropolis in One Hour The Caryatids (female figure columns) have become the temple’s signature feature, as they stand and seem to casually support the weight of the porch’s roof on their heads. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474408384113-HXA7I1LBM5QCKL11P59O/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Acropolis in One Hour The Parthenon is the main building on the site and was started in 447 BC and completed some fifteen years later. It housed both a treasury and a sanctuary to Athena, in which was placed a fantastic 12-meter high ivory and gold statue of the goddess Athena, called the Athena Parthenos. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474408444517-5597XAMRVG27PS7VBGNZ/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Acropolis in One Hour A panoramic view of the city of Athens from the Acropolis. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474408520978-736E1NO7HC5OXJ6B7BQE/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Acropolis in One Hour This is a view of the Erechtheion and the Parthenon. This is when they were kicking people out - a benefit of going in at the end of the day - less people in your photos! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474408593538-F1CBJC8A0VADL33850KU/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Acropolis in One Hour Restoration work being done on the Parthenon. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474408662087-XLV1JHBWF3NF3YOWWC0J/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Acropolis in One Hour Another view of the Parthenon. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474408862613-UPSTU6S9B9P7LYH9ZDKA/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Acropolis in One Hour This is the Temple of Athena Nike which was built around 420BC, the temple is the earliest fully Ionic temple on the Acropolis. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474408948017-UM7RP10WG1CZZ4C1DXJO/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Acropolis in One Hour This is a permanent market showcasing books. We just happened to find it as we were heading to the metro stop. It kind of reminds us of the book shops along the Seine River in Paris. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/9/19/september-16 monthly 0.5 2016-09-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474399298920-BTCDBU6KJ4D2H65LGPMD/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Thalassitra - Our Greek Guide It is always wonderful to view something from a new perspective - and when you are in a boat, looking back at the land, it really does provide a new perspective. Milos is absolutely fascinating - providing some serious eye candy. I think this may be a geologist's heaven. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474399187786-9RLNZNHYTAGXAR16ZXOU/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Thalassitra - Our Greek Guide Our captain pulls us into a private cove so we can swim in a cave and also access Sykia. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474399411494-6BH374INMOJWJ0IR4FBG/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Thalassitra - Our Greek Guide This is the cave we could swim in - it looks kind of like a pomegranate to me. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474399478246-YEHFXKKA1BVWBV9S2DFU/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Thalassitra - Our Greek Guide This cave without a roof (Sykia cave) is really beautiful. The beach is rocky, but it is nice to swim in. We found some sea urchins so navigating without a mask could potentially be quite painful. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474399606565-1X1FJ380KILPCDCN4YLN/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Thalassitra - Our Greek Guide Rory deftly navigates the waves to get us in and out of Sykia cave. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474399773015-1Y1SSGZ1GW6M83SBZAM4/image-asset.png Blog - Thalassitra - Our Greek Guide Our transportation for the day - the Thalassitra - she is very sea-worthy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474399868251-4JS2U1BKOWFKV9SBJK39/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Thalassitra - Our Greek Guide The famous rocks of Kleftiko - made famous by pirates. We swam here through that cave opening - it was so cool! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474400070041-WM1X1FVPUB2NM1ADINQS/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Thalassitra - Our Greek Guide This is a beach for the hearty. If you look closely, you can see a couple of ladders - that’s the only way to access this beach by land. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474400170762-DMU7670HVVI03IALWSBR/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Thalassitra - Our Greek Guide Here are a few of the delicious Greek dishes they provided. There were more, but I couldn’t get all of the dishes in one photo. These were all cooked on the boat - something for everyone - yummy! I can’t believe they do this every day! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474400292718-VD5Q8JZNZR5MHJ2NE58Q/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Thalassitra - Our Greek Guide One of the amazing landscapes of the island. It looks like the rocks are liquid. I guess they were at some point. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474400386240-SOXGLFQF7TOOJKB0XELD/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Thalassitra - Our Greek Guide This is the unique geological area - there are not many places like this in the world. It’s crystalized rock - crazy! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474400471626-3GJTLZ7TPCQPZ2YV6M09/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Thalassitra - Our Greek Guide We pass by the colorful village of Klima as we make our way back to the port of Adamas. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474400521512-E28ZKMHFILUT0JHWY6BT/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Thalassitra - Our Greek Guide We have been so lucky to see so many amazing sunsets on our journey - here is yet another. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/9/18/september-15 monthly 0.5 2016-09-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474374212827-E6F46XJ9169ZLQ8VXJAT/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Oh, Milos. A Beautiful Island. We finally make it down the dusty road and find Fyriplaka beach. The small “parking lot” is full so it looks like you just try to find some space along the road and park - no problem. It’s big and looks really nice - let’s go! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474374617221-X0MVZS9N9TE7XQHTZOBK/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Oh, Milos. A Beautiful Island. Okay, this is what a proper beach looks like - it has sand! The beach bar and lounge chairs are just a bonus. The chairs cost 2 euros each to rent for the day - all the palaces are taken so we grab our chairs and find a place in the sand not far down. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474374711626-A6G9UNM9NQCHI1JQ117U/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Oh, Milos. A Beautiful Island. Not only is the beach amazing, the cliffs behind us are spectacular. They are full of minerals which create a myriad of colors, shapes and textures - it’s a spectacle to see. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474374924653-5RYXBFNF899I6QGYUO0O/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Oh, Milos. A Beautiful Island. Dave created two turtle’s while Monique took a nap. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474374804562-HKHKK3OLRIF01V4PD53G/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Oh, Milos. A Beautiful Island. We like to call this “butt rock”. It’s really big and has a narrow little cave that goes through the base. You can see the scale of the beach - those specs are people. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474375105033-KYAS8OZLZQVX913VIU0T/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Oh, Milos. A Beautiful Island. The second beach we went to: Sarakiniko Beach. It’s like we just landed on the moon. This island really is magical. It has so many unique areas for such a small place. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474374983201-AR695DWYBD1LMW4NVVF8/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Oh, Milos. A Beautiful Island. We didn’t know it when we snapped this photo, but the two people standing on the top of the cliff are our new Greek friends, Hara and Kostas. They are really nice people and we hit it off right away. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474375313127-CWL49L583K8NU9GVT5WQ/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Oh, Milos. A Beautiful Island. It almost looks like sand dunes got frozen in place and turned white. The rock is very smooth in places and is compact, but soft - similar to plaster or chalk. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474375375784-V23ZFETQCJLLVNONABC6/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Oh, Milos. A Beautiful Island. Back in town to see the sunset and have some dinner. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/9/18/september-14 monthly 0.5 2016-09-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474321961206-59H0C3ZDQL9T3QDSTEFV/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Purchase of an Icon The famous three domed church view - we found it! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474322215463-EDLG5EKHZTIYJ3BXW41H/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Purchase of an Icon A nice view of the island showing the houses perched on the top - ready to catch the sunlight. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474322285315-8ZUK4NS0RJHTB5PE2KBV/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Purchase of an Icon This is the church that had the ceremony going on - The architecture is perfect for the setting - just beautiful. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474323320845-TMTY310877OQ3IMXYAMG/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Purchase of an Icon The 4 artists - Apollo, Dave, Monique and Dimitris. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474322398228-T3NKXXBXSMQL5TUWMG8G/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Purchase of an Icon Hundreds of people gathered at the port waiting to catch the next ferry. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474323649648-OEW1XH05LO7P87154X5Y/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Purchase of an Icon The busses pulled up right next to tables of people - quite alarming at first - then it just became normal because they all did it. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/9/17/september-13 monthly 0.5 2016-09-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474319919605-2NXRIRSZ2WY41I02C08R/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Deadly Desert We found this path and it took us pretty far down the hill - and then it ended so we were left to our own devices - it was time to cross the deadly desert. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474318989575-J520W3N8EWNCU2ITXJTI/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Deadly Desert The church on the hill we hope is the church on the map. It is remote and we aren’t quite sure how people get here. There are some dirt trails around it but that’s it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474319089087-GWJ6FCI8J85Q3QNH7721/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Deadly Desert This is the makeshift road that leads to the beach - we are hoping it doesn’t cave in while we walk on it - so we move to the center. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474319288923-U31N9JBLWM8JPA3S33KP/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Deadly Desert We finally made it to the real road - nice signage. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474321134496-48FBE8UHT90ZKYRCC4AB/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Deadly Desert Katharos Lounge - our oasis in the desert. You wouldn’t think it, but they had really good food. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474321319274-PEW0ATKNI8RQ9TKEVXMI/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Deadly Desert We hung out here for a while - a 15 min wait for beer, then a longer wait for food. They have pillows so it's okay. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474319566219-0IYBIR0P07610SU7XLFX/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Deadly Desert This is the beach - it’s rocky and a bit treacherous. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474319648744-JI5DF756E1KY7Z6LO8NG/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Deadly Desert When you plop down on the rocky beach and look behind you, this is what you see. It’s spectacular. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/9/17/september-12 monthly 0.5 2016-09-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474233479862-NR1S3USCD42LPQ56D3XQ/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Red Cat Party An early morning scene - something you only see when you need to find eggs for an early breakfast. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474233669406-QRKL1GGAI5BE3BDXID02/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Red Cat Party Our red catamaran (cat) tour boat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474233756906-H11YVFTRJEYANID8ZI16/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Red Cat Party We think this guy lives on this rock with his chickens and goats and has some connection with the guys on the boat. We like to call him a “salty dog”. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474233870856-BVHVDWIR9G2OLNGK3TXE/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Red Cat Party The island is volcanic and mostly deserted - it’s really quite beautiful. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474234145442-Q2RP9KIGV3MB0XF9U0L2/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Red Cat Party Chilling on the “cat” https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474234250834-3K5YEBIML0K14H6M5VO7/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Red Cat Party More amazing scenery we see while cruising around the island of Santorini. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474234334778-XEEJE0AGJCLL3LV5IFDT/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Red Cat Party Pulling into the port around 3:00. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474234406473-HKK4LHLFVV8FMTSQ6F33/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Red Cat Party Our core party group: Emily, Megan, Alex, Gina, Julie, Dave, Monique, Sara, Dianne, Maryann and Billy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474234474766-N3DO8OHMO8HHNKF7OX5S/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Red Cat Party This is why everyone crowds the narrow pathways for hours to see the sunset. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474234569576-7DW7DL2WEXTEPKZ0ER6W/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Red Cat Party The extended party group. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474234650146-CIXGIM83VIT7R60QNN6V/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Red Cat Party Jumping on the beds never gets old. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/9/15/september-11 monthly 0.5 2016-09-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474217703382-C6UDPJ3JBTPEO2NZTNQQ/image-asset.jpeg Blog - You Say It's Your Birthday The check-in process - Triantafillos explains how things work - this is something we need to know. Monique is a good listener. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474217909778-ECEPFPW7V1SBJBURZNVM/image-asset.jpeg Blog - You Say It's Your Birthday The view from the walkway outside of our villa - are you kidding me! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474217968904-YCCVEGIA98XASNL6S245/image-asset.jpeg Blog - You Say It's Your Birthday Happy Birthday Dave - lucky… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474217792779-D9IBD0DEJUHLQR688P01/image-asset.jpeg Blog - You Say It's Your Birthday A view of our cave villa from the bedroom looking out. Notice Dave on the right - sleeping on the blue day bed - another birthday gift - a nap! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474218125972-P66GUWABPPT5TUXUW3LT/image-asset.jpeg Blog - You Say It's Your Birthday This is the place where they pick you up and drop you off when you do any excursion or need a ride anywhere - transportation can also be a mule. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474218460818-KFL0Q6XVO5NDDPWF0MQY/image-asset.jpeg Blog - You Say It's Your Birthday The grocery store across the road - think about dodging scooters, motorcycles, buses, cars, trucks, quad ATV’s in too narrow a road with parked cars along the way. There’s beer and money over there so this must be done. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474218538536-4OUXTW3CQ5Z7ZDZ7YQ6D/image-asset.jpeg Blog - You Say It's Your Birthday Birthday dinner at Skala - a toast to Dave - Happy Birthday! http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/9/11/september-10 monthly 0.5 2016-09-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474146768032-JB6XL2E628B0WQIV168K/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Adiós Spain - Yassas Greece We are leaving Hotel Moderno as the sun is starting to poke out over the buildings - it’s very peaceful - a sharp contrast from last night. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474146914586-Z1SGB3EQOAOCJME95Z78/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Adiós Spain - Yassas Greece The eastern coast of Spain - good flying weather. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474146991500-MAE3HCAR5TSNMC3PVPYH/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Adiós Spain - Yassas Greece The western coast of Greece - Yassas! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474147027788-98P3ET7QP1PB4G92U6C7/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Adiós Spain - Yassas Greece Our lovely hotel in Athens - a low rate and free airport shuttle make the decision to stay here easy. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/9/11/september-9 monthly 0.5 2016-09-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474140457640-KIYEKEK85PJCDESF5ETA/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Prado and the Palace Real The Prado Museum features one of the world's finest collections of European art, dating from the 12th century to the early 20th century, based on the former Spanish Royal Collection, and unquestionably the best single collection of Spanish art - including works by Francisco de Goya, the single most extensively represented artist here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474140705430-FVBFASHE2CVCSW6DGQTB/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Prado and the Palace Real Right next to the Palace Real is Santa María la Real de La Almudena - a Catholic cathedral and the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Madrid. It was consecrated by Pope John Paul II in 1993. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474142161015-YQ3JVJF94HMF7QMVPK6J/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Prado and the Palace Real Plaza de la Armería inside the royal palace. The square as it exists now was laid-out in 1892, however, the history of this square dates back to 1553, the year in which Philip II ordered a building to house the royal stables. The palace has 135,000 square metres (1,450,000 sq ft) of floorspace and contains 3,418 rooms. It is the largest royal palace in Europe by floor area. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474142271151-C9ZF3MEMOKR1CDPUHLCC/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Prado and the Palace Real The Grand Staircase was built by Sabatini in 1789, it is composed of a single piece of San Agustin marble. Two lions grace the landing, one by Felipe de Castro and another by Robert Michel. This is one of the only places inside you can take photos - calling it a grand staircase is a bit of an understatement - if you aren’t impressed by this, then I’m not sure what will. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474142221957-FOTG8ELLNP9OBRZ2HXB3/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Prado and the Palace Real The frescoes on the ceiling are by Corrado Giaquinto and depicts Religion Protected by Spain. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474142078729-161FNCG9XAM888KAH41K/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Prado and the Palace Real The Spanish people sure love their ham (jambe). These stores are everywhere! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474142362654-TQD0I1B3F6VGUX9FBEAV/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Prado and the Palace Real Pikachu in Puerta del Sol - the square right by our hotel. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1474142110234-9MKE2B27SP5L9GIFOK5P/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Prado and the Palace Real The mariachi band we saw - they were pretty good. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/9/11/september-8 monthly 0.5 2016-09-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473860102654-R283NQAICW1EZOAXHLQB/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Picasso’s Guernica We saw a bunch of these restaurants in Madrid - The museum of ham. Okay, they really take their ham seriously here - too bad we are sick of it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473860438185-NEOIB155CX828VRGVJ8G/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Picasso’s Guernica Low Tide at Varengeville by Claud Monet, c. 1882, Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473860496917-YTGU1TINN4NTF6M67CRJ/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Picasso’s Guernica Swaying Dancer (Dancer in Green) by Edgar Degas, c. 1877-79, Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473860695690-JE7JIANLZ3UT2ENJ7G93/IMG_1103-sm.jpg Blog - Picasso’s Guernica Our delicious meal of hake, salad, pork cheeks and grilled asparagus - and of course cava - yum! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473860387216-Q8720BP7UQKNE8ZPOVLS/P1070281-sm.jpg Blog - Picasso’s Guernica Le Billet Doux (meaning the sweet letter) by Francois Clouet, c. 1570 AD, Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía - There is something about this painting - their facial expressions, how it is arranged, the girl’s nudity - it makes me think a deal is being made. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473860552916-TO3LQ6GTXDLYYVPVAX9S/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Picasso’s Guernica Face of the Great Masturbator by Salvador Dali, c. 1929, Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473860911992-NVARSHV85F4RW3FFMRPU/P1070486-sm.jpg Blog - Picasso’s Guernica Spectator of Spectators by Manuel Valdés & Rafael Solbes, c. 1972. This is made out of paper mache - I think it looks cool. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473860959417-YMPXAR5H1D59YGP16DWA/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Picasso’s Guernica Puerto del Sol is hopping at night. It’s nice to have a busy place close to your hotel. We only have a few steps from here and we are “home”. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/9/10/september-8 monthly 0.5 2016-09-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473610693466-HS8GJ5Z5I59KRR7VJA6J/image-asset.jpeg Blog - HOT Madrid Awaits The final stretch - our hotel (Hotel Moderno) is on the left - right as Sol Plaza opens up. This was an amazing location. It was within walking distance to everything we wanted to do. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473610777757-JFLXIITNU5X1GA7CG6GU/image-asset.jpeg Blog - HOT Madrid Awaits It’s cool what you discover just wandering around. He missed a couple spots :) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473610812251-NW2QTZ0FWRIL407HK7B8/image-asset.jpeg Blog - HOT Madrid Awaits La Casa De Las Torrijas - a really great break from the blasting heat - it was cooler inside and the beer was really cold.   https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473610865833-GNH3ZD8F4UZ155BE6TAO/image-asset.jpeg Blog - HOT Madrid Awaits The Plaza Mayor was built during Philip III's reign and is a central plaza in the city of Madrid, Spain. It is located only a few Spanish blocks away from another famous plaza, the Puerta del Sol - where our hotel is. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/9/10/september-7 monthly 0.5 2016-09-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473603997313-GLU9MS346UN90K0HPCUD/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Surfers Beach - Surf’s up Suits are Off Breakfast of Spanish champions - a potato-egg pintxo with cafe con leche. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473604088091-UY6X1OKMNVE9QB56K9RV/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Surfers Beach - Surf’s up Suits are Off Basilica of Santa Maria del Coro (18th century baroque style) tucked into the narrow streets old town in San Sebastian. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473603919912-QNW41AKRIV9P2SSTNK9L/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Surfers Beach - Surf’s up Suits are Off Zurriola Bridge over the Urumea river. Did you know that San Sebastian is the European Capital of Culture in 2016? The tide is out now - no jet skiing until later. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473604222226-1UOHOWAAN4YNK99UDS6F/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Surfers Beach - Surf’s up Suits are Off Trisha’s sandy birthday postcard - it was a fun, creative project - it tells you we are missing our kids. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473604292957-DU8SYLTBJYSER7B8WQTP/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Surfers Beach - Surf’s up Suits are Off Dave’s brain child - inspired by Monique’s sandy turtle the other day. This one might stay a bit longer - but who knows? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473604412626-Y0Z83PCKFHDNR90UU8F1/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Surfers Beach - Surf’s up Suits are Off An art enthusiust who appreciates the value of creativity - thanks! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473604488629-2SSKIHN3B5XK7PACFU7S/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Surfers Beach - Surf’s up Suits are Off Time to leave surfer beach - we hope to return some day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473604564752-V4M2OXM1XA40PQOPT7LM/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Surfers Beach - Surf’s up Suits are Off The pintxo dinner is waiting. They hand you a plate, you put on what you want - most range between 2-4 euros each. Get a couple and move on to the next place. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473604602189-5F90BMIKLGCWZ54RQ2WN/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Surfers Beach - Surf’s up Suits are Off We came full circle - started with breakfast and finishing with “dessert” after our multiple stop pintxo adventure. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/9/5/september-5 monthly 0.5 2016-09-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473543406064-BAXISDRSH49UL6NKPWSG/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A Bite of San Sebastian History San Sebastian’s harbor is picturesque - this is the path you take to get to the aquarium. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473543485517-AVNPXB217DS4IX1CA0JR/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A Bite of San Sebastian History It’s our sight-seeing day and first on the ticket is the aquarium. It is a nice mix of San Sebastian fishing history and really big fish tanks. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473543558237-TRMVF948B5WBIO30PJZI/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A Bite of San Sebastian History We prefer to see jelly fish in a tank - rather than in the sea - but alas, this is where they live. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473543642046-V47X49OKVWRYRG74CHBW/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A Bite of San Sebastian History The view from Napoleon’s rampart - the climb is worth the view. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473543725373-19TVZ5C9DBXTWO5NH4QJ/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A Bite of San Sebastian History Castillo de la Mota at the top of Monte Urgull. It is amazing how these old forts stand the test of time - this thing is solid. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473544180032-EIPLDCZOMTOK9DC7OP2W/IMG_1040-sm.jpg Blog - A Bite of San Sebastian History The old town of San Sebastian has many narrow lanes just waiting to be explored. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473544214343-SZ55U1KZ43YPKT8MTUMZ/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A Bite of San Sebastian History We didn’t hold high hopes for dinner at a hotel - but man did they deliver. This was a really delicious meal - don’t you love when that happens! http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/9/5/september-4 monthly 0.5 2016-09-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473533622012-TMQXBLVGER8WBI0AMJUB/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Beach "Closers" You need to time your jet skiing just right - at low tide the river is so shallow that much of the river bed is completely exposed and the rest is extremely shallow. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473533715143-P7H4IVE8EP6O079X2CP7/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Beach "Closers" A view from the sand couch - hard to beat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473533821438-ZYN9AL9F9KN4M0CS17BA/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Beach "Closers" The sea is taking our turtle, however we fought it off for about 15 minutes with a wall and trenches - just enough time to snap some photos. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473533986222-JM917NATK054OVE809TG/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Beach "Closers" Dave has the timing just right to body surf the waves into shore. Take a deep breath! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473534040215-YY8GRWR83U7VZHW2XXG1/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Beach "Closers" Thank you mother nature. The perfect ending to a perfectly wonderful day. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/9/5/september-3 monthly 0.5 2016-09-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473517880410-4BX0X8XGEJVRA29CU8BT/image-asset.jpeg Blog - To the Beach Mi Amigo Living’ in a hotel…down by the river (thanks to all who “get” the Chris Farley reference) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473518398396-QQCH17XPPPKMTG7GXD49/image-asset.jpeg Blog - To the Beach Mi Amigo The Cathedral of the Good Shepherd in the downtown area of SanSebastian - what a beautiful sight. It was built in the late 19th century in a Historicist Neo-Gothic style. The church, dedicated to the Good Shepherd, has held the rank of cathedral since 1953. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473518446974-ABZIXME6GFH3ZEN95254/image-asset.jpeg Blog - To the Beach Mi Amigo A walk along the stone boardwalk - beautiful weather, beautiful people, beautiful scenery - it doesn’t get much better! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473518480438-SI5414VE0ZL2N2V1RMFZ/image-asset.jpeg Blog - To the Beach Mi Amigo The beach lights up as does the statue of Jesus - which is perched above the town on Monte Urgull. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/9/4/september-2 monthly 0.5 2016-09-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473029103361-LJIZCDMROO2WVNOX4KT9/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Contemporary Museum and Güell Park This is such a cool concept - 101 pictures showing age progression - with 101 different humans - awesome! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473029152609-80JTHED83JWD08O1J8LB/P1060666-sm.jpg Blog - Contemporary Museum and Güell Park A bullet rug - not very friendly or enjoyable to walk on. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473029970673-XMYLH5WWAH3COV68XS2Z/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Contemporary Museum and Güell Park Park Guell - who wouldn’t want to live here? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473029197282-Z7L1UGNXCDIQRLCBC42O/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Contemporary Museum and Güell Park The dragon fountain detail. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473029683270-7GZ8ZFSQLSW8PC4R8W8J/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Contemporary Museum and Güell Park The centerpiece of the park is the intended covered market, which also serves as a water collection system. The roof is a vast terrace with built-in benches and an amazing view of the city and the base is a fine gravel that rain water can go through. It then flows through the hollow columns into a water catchment system below - genius! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473029721539-8DC172B69KUG0LBGZRNH/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Contemporary Museum and Güell Park These built-in benches undulate around a huge terrace with amazing views of the city. Although they are made of very hard materials, they are incredibly comfortable and curve around so you can have easy conversations with groups of people because you face each other. Gaudi designed ergonomically - making sure chairs fit your body, door handles fit your hand, etc. - a new concept for the time. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473029827934-4VAX5T5GBVQR86TV6VE3/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Contemporary Museum and Güell Park Part of the aqueduct - what does this remind you of - a wave perhaps? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473029889250-HQTUIP7X3Q40X87YVJOV/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Contemporary Museum and Güell Park The roof of one of the municipal buildings for the complex. Apparently Gaudi saw a the play “Hansel & Gretal” and was influenced by what he saw - making the functional buildings look like gingerbread houses. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473030013789-SZ42K0MRXRGHIRAEG9RR/image-asset.png Blog - Contemporary Museum and Güell Park The pigeon whisperer. Oh no you didn’t! http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/9/4/september-1 monthly 0.5 2016-09-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473028206532-2RRQ8TEB69A0OO2N1N4T/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Ramblas Ramble The tour actually starts at the next photo - this is a view from our balcony in the morning when Dave woke up to pee. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473028261190-HGCAWLYXLHWHQQ5GYP7O/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Ramblas Ramble Before we begin we pick a tapas restaurant that has a full lineup to choose from. We sit on a stool in front of the case, ask for two beers, and point to the food that looks good. The guy behind the counter puts a little grouping on a plate and microwaves it slightly if required. He hands them over the glass case. It makes for a great start to the day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473108030960-YPSFR6WJP0GID3ZA19B9/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Ramblas Ramble Our first stop is the "Fountain of Canaletes." If you drink from the black-and-gold fountain you are assured a return to Barcelona. I guess Monique will return. Many people of all ages squeeze the handle and drink. The street at one time was a drainage ditch. When the city tore down its medieval wall to grow the city it transformed the Ramblas into Barcelona's Champs-Elysées like promenade. This fountain was one of its early attractions. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473028558418-E45VYYLBJWBLIO57MKJ7/P1060510-sm.jpg Blog - Ramblas Ramble We continue to the Royal Academy of Science and Arts building (it’s now home to a performing-arts theater). The clock high on the facade marks official Barcelona time. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473108110528-QHH0R59VPKRRH99GX2LX/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Ramblas Ramble Next, we take a detour through a passageway marked Passatge de la Ramblas to a restored Roman Necropolis. In Roman cities, tombs (outside the walls) typically lined the roads leading into town. We are getting spoiled seeing truly amazing sites. This was underwhelming. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473028647246-ZC7ALLRZM5536K0IDFA2/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Ramblas Ramble We return to La Rambla, walk down and look to the right to see some historic decorative tiles over a fountain still in use by locals. The scene shows the original city wall with the gate that once stood here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473108822037-6LFJ36ADHIQNQ2ILKB0G/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Ramblas Ramble A zigzag across the boulevard and we are at the 17th-century Baroque church: Betlem Church. It is a tight street so a good picture is difficult. This church is dedicated to Bethlehem and for centuries locals have flocked here at Christmastime to see it Nativity scenes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473108854689-9N7HOK7U29YXRHUWMCVR/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Ramblas Ramble The walk continues to the "Rambla of Flowers" A colorful section lined with flower stands. We see some pots reminiscent of Off the Wall Pots filled with a cactus Dave has not seen before - it is a miniature cactus with large bright flowers, they must be happy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473028672317-256CNKZVE3PMFC3S978M/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Ramblas Ramble Then we look across the street and see the entrance to Barcelona’s great covered market, La Boqueria. It has been a market as far back as 1200. The Barcelonans sold their animal parts here - history is everywhere. We go in and wander the stalls. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473028747776-68EVM6IV6IK17AYDJO9T/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Ramblas Ramble It reminds me of Milwaukee's Public Market but with more unusual items. We see a group of pig legs with the hoof tied down and someone cutting very thin slices. You can see a lot of of raw meat - skinned rabbits, goat heads, tongues, brains, and all varieties of animal organs. There is a fish stall that assaults your senses and at the same time I see a counter full of people eating a variety of cooked fish dishes. It must be a good place because you would be hard pressed to find a single seat. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473028794833-OURCHXC5G2W7MEWEBT4U/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Ramblas Ramble There are many cut fruit and juice stands - we choose a squeezed juice that costs one euro each. Very refreshing. We also buy a traditional almond candy we have seen everywhere. The woman in the stall was from Cuba. This city has people from every part of the globe. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473110404702-NFUD7VQPYIJ27J1CKO4C/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Ramblas Ramble We stop for a picture of a medieval church tower called Santa Maria del Pi, a popular venue for musical concerts and look to the other side of the Ramblas. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473149112956-3NSXHTEI4QWGSH29R14A/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Ramblas Ramble At the corner we see the Escribà bakery, with its fine Modernista facade and the Antigua Casa Figueras sign arching over the doorway. In the sidewalk in front of the door, a plaque dates the building to 1902 so we shoot a picture of our feet on the tile. There are colorful macarons in the shapes of ice cream cones displayed in the window. We are still full from lunch so we pass the beautiful sweats without purchase. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473110436648-TVYO0QKFK0Z358N30U3H/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Ramblas Ramble We find the red-white-yellow-and-blue mosaic on the path created by Joan Miró. The mosaic’s black arrow represents an anchor, a reminder of the city’s attachment to the sea. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473028308259-68UM37M9GRS6FG47Y1KE/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Ramblas Ramble On the corner a Chinese dragon holding a lantern decorates a former umbrella shop. The dragon is an important symbol of Catalan pride for its connection to the local patron saint, St. George (Jordi). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473110609819-YG96K8BCVXZHLNHAD8X0/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Ramblas Ramble We go into the Liceu Opera House (Gran Teatre del Liceu), which hosts world-class opera, dance, and theater. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473110464991-S4PMFI20LT5LI1QUS7JJ/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Ramblas Ramble Turn to the left and we enter Plaça Reial, a square dotted with palm trees and is ringed by yellow buildings with white Neoclassical trim. This square has restaurants on all sides. There are two helmeted lampposts that are Gaudí’s first public works. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473111625394-HLONCIISJLC7AIHT7QQ6/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Ramblas Ramble Continuing down we cross the boulevard walk a half-block down to see Palau Güell another building by Antoni Gaudí. This is a early Gaudí (built 1886-1890). It is more Neo-Gothic than his more famous later buildings. You can see the early elements of his later Modernista vision. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473111657006-A7X37AN4NL5RMBW50WEP/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Ramblas Ramble We end the walk at the Columbus Monument on the harbor. The 200-foot column honors Christopher Columbus, who came to Barcelona in 1493 after his journey to the Americas. It was erected for the 1888 Universal Exposition, an international fair that helped push Barcelona onto the world stage. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473111681592-Z21ENWCXSF774QHGZPO0/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Ramblas Ramble Then we walk the harbor and stop for a freezer fruit bar. It is warm in the sun and the harbor has few trees to hide under. We see an incredibly large yacht and decide to check it out. We turn around and spot a large sculpture that we know instantly that it is by Roy Lichtenstein. We need a picture of that. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473111726050-PUTCGUT24BAZDWGP94R6/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Ramblas Ramble We then follow the path past the "Museu d'Historia de Catalunya that will bring us to the beach area. We find a nice table in the shade, order beers and an appetizer with sardines, shrimp with there heads on, cheese, olives and a few other unknown dishes. We eat and for entertainment watch the people at the very busy beach. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473028920278-R251WGAGX28MHK0A7MDK/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Ramblas Ramble We start the walk back but decide our feet would appreciate a ride in a peddle taxi. We negotiate a deal (10 euros) and hop in. We converse with our peddler and learn he is from Argentina and lives here with his girlfriend. His name is Sebastian and upon reaching our drop spot says the light is perfect, "let me take your picture." He takes it seriously and shoots four pictures and acts like he has done this before. Just before he leaves, because the light is good, Dave gets him to pose for a picture too. He laughs and peddles away. We head for the Metro and are quickly heading to our hotel. A glass of our room wine awaits. Another good day. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/9/4/august-31 monthly 0.5 2016-09-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473095218970-BF7EFDGGJ143TY95HDVC/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Barri Gòtic and Picasso A green sign marks the shop called Planelles Donat. It is a historical shop selling ice cream, sweet turró (or turrón, almond-and-honey candy), refreshing orxata (or horchata, almond-flavored drink), and granissat (or granizado, ice slush). Stores like this one started selling goods they made out of a basket on the street then evolving into the shop they are today. We go in and order one horchata take-away to share and enjoy the sweat taste as we continue our walk. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473095271849-NI0DE2OEAQLNS4XLS2UA/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Barri Gòtic and Picasso On the next corner farther down is an Art Nouveau awning at another El Corte Inglés department store. We take a few pictures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473027612355-4JK0ZS955XFO9OBOZ8RT/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Barri Gòtic and Picasso From there we go right and about half way down we are told to look for a narrow street to the right. Of course we walk right by distracted by all the displays in the store windows - like legs of aged Iberian ham. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473027843284-1DHJWUZUWDRTN2BHOIB2/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Barri Gòtic and Picasso We backtrack and enter Carrer de Santa Anna and a small courtyard appears. Tucked way inside the courtyard is the Church of Santa Anna. It is a 12th-century church that was outside the city walls. It's marker cross still stands today as it did back then. Newer construction was built on all sides completely enclosing it. It's pretty cool finding it hidden among the new world shopping community. We meet another couple from the US doing the same tour - Rick Steves is a popular guy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473027880783-F09O8DOLDB7W4SGEJCO6/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Barri Gòtic and Picasso We return to the main drag and further down we turn left onto Carrer de Montsió and half a block down is our next stop - Els Quatre Gats. The restaurant is a historic monument and is famous for being the circa-1900 bohemian-artist hangout where Picasso drank with friends and had his first one-man show (in 1900). Picasso spent his formative years (1895-1904, ages 14-23) here in the old town. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473095462350-PH6COA2R436DUVQVVYLU/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Barri Gòtic and Picasso The building itself is also note worthy and was designed by prominent architect Josep Puig i Cadafalch. The building is a great example of Neo-Gothic Modernism. We enter and look around. The kitchen is not serving but we could have a drink. We decline being aware of our time available. We have a schedule to keep. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473096199807-95SW63U2RHGGLLSGVOJZ/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Barri Gòtic and Picasso We continue down Avinguda del Portal de l’Angel and arrive at a fork in the road. There is a fountain with blue-and-yellow tilework, a circa-1918 addition to this even older fountain. The tiles show woman carrying jugs of water and in the 17th century, it was the last stop for watering horses on the way out of town. The fountains you find scattered around town have drinkable water - nice! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473096253847-HWE64UNR318TV1JO7VP4/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Barri Gòtic and Picasso There is a band with a banjo, a piano and a trumpet playing bluegrass sounding music. We stop and listen and enjoy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473096279701-DPO6MV9SLP1AXAL9M09B/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Barri Gòtic and Picasso We go left at the fork and next arrive at “Plaça Nova." Two bold Roman towers flank the main street. These once guarded the entrance gate of the ancient Roman city of Barcino. The Roman wall was 25 feet high and a mile around, with 74 towers. It enclosed a population of 4,000 inhabitants. The wall is has been removed over time. The towers are a reconstruction but the blocks at the base of the towers are actually Roman. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473027921373-QBLQX8XGOV9UQ1SXFMQN/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Barri Gòtic and Picasso We go left just down from the towers and get a good look at the facade of the Cathedral of Barcelona. This place has been a center of Christian worship since the fourth century. The cathedral we see today dates from the 14th century, with a 19th-century Neo-Gothic facade. The facade shows all of the Gothic motifs. A pointed arch over the entrance, statues in flowing robes, tracery in the windows, gargoyles, and bell towers with winged angels. This Gothic variation is called French Flamboyant. The roofline protrudes with prickly spires meant to give the impression of a church flickering with spiritual fires. It does flicker in the sun. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473097054453-K8MUFTFBL31B2G5KGF44/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Barri Gòtic and Picasso We go back and follow the road between the towers called "Carrer del Bisbe." We turn left go up a ramp and enter Casa de l’Ardiaca. It is a mansion that now contains the city archives. The elaborately carved doorway is Renaissance. To the right of the doorway is a carved mail slot by 19th-century Modernista architect. We enter the small courtyard that has a fountain. There is a century-old palm tree held in place with cables above. At the left end of the lobby, go through the archway and look down into the stairwell—this is the back side of the ancient Roman wall. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473028011942-76CV1VI2VD06ZV0YZ5RY/P1060468-sm.jpg Blog - Barri Gòtic and Picasso We return to Carrer del Bisbe and turn left. We find a small square with a bronze statue called the Monument to the Martyrs of Independence. Five Barcelona patriots calmly receive their last rites before being strangled for resisting Napoleon’s occupation of Spain in the early 19th century. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473028061983-UQ14H5P561H4W36TK89D/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Barri Gòtic and Picasso Next we enter the “Plaça Sant Felip Neri." The square serves as the playground of an elementary school with the next generation learning Catalan that just a generation ago would have been illegal. In the courtyard is the The Church of Sant Felip Neri, which Gaudí attended, is still pocked with bomb damage from the Spanish Civil War. There is a plaque on the wall that honors the 42 killed—mostly children—in that 1938 aerial bombardment. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473097597238-B8HTQY9HJFQADYE6E4XT/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Barri Gòtic and Picasso We exit the square and turn right onto Carrer de Sant Sever, then immediately left on Carrer de Sant Domènec del Call. We enter the Jewish Quarter. In Catalan, a Jewish quarter goes by the name El Call meaning a“narrow passage." These very tight streets are where some 4,000 medieval Jews were crammed in to be under the watchful eye of the cathedral. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473093171935-ZHO4GQY0FX7GH7YQFNV8/IMG_4733-sm.jpg Blog - Barri Gòtic and Picasso We are out of time and need to eat lunch and head over to the Picasso museum. We walked buy a noisy hole in the wall on one of the narrow streets. We go in, find a seat, get a menu and read that they don't take credit cards. We are low on cash. The place looks and smells great so we go find a cash machine and return. We have a glass of white wine while we wait. They are not fast and when the food finally arrives we munch it down. We agree it is the best food we have had in Spain so far. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1473097906912-7N5WBMRB6FBDWMTYMNUS/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Barri Gòtic and Picasso We use google to direct us right to our next stop on the tour - the Picasso Museum. Pablo Picasso may have made his career in Paris, but his formative years in Barcelona set the stage. From his early representative years you see his talent at 15 years old. Then to the carefully craftedart-school pieces, the gloomy hues of his Blue Period to the revitalized cheer of his Rose Period. There are works showing the beginning of his cubist ideas. You also see works from his twilight years, including dozens of wild improvisations inspired by Diego Velázquez’s seminal Las Meninas. It is the top collection of Picasso's anywhere showing his early works. We are lucky to see his work this way. We saw his paintings at a museum in Paris and now here in Barcelona. When you are an artist at heart this really feeds the soul. (no photos allowed) Quick Metro back to the hotel with a stop for a bottle of "Cava" similar to the Italian "Prosecco" and a couple of tall boy beers. We know where to shop so it is inexpensive. We ate a late lunch like the people do here. I wonder if we will go out at 10 pm for dinner? Our dogs are tired, my guess is we will not. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/9/1/august-31 monthly 0.5 2016-09-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472979135375-A9M6Z2RYDX8LXRE638ZU/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Joan Miro - another Catalan artist Bugaderia Lavandería Laundry IGLÚ - it gets the job done. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472984245087-TQE79M46C969HPOR0GS0/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Joan Miro - another Catalan artist Personage by Joan Miro. We saw it’s brother, sister (cousin?) in Denmark. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472979225742-JYN4D04MKF1YCFHWGLM7/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Joan Miro - another Catalan artist Joan Miro - Titled “May 1968” In Paris during the spring of 1968, university students confronted the establishment with riots and demonstrations. They claimed that the only way to be realistic was to demand the impossible. Miro believed that paintings can be walls for inscribing protests. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472984279727-1FSF5QBUO4RS9WQ9R7HU/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Joan Miro - another Catalan artist This is a study for a monument: Moon, sun and one star. Monique saw this and said she thought she saw the actual monument in Chicago - google confirmed her suspicions. It’s in Daley Plaza and it’s 39 feet tall! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472984355011-5G18SGGGSHDLWCZOBDOB/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Joan Miro - another Catalan artist Miro would assemble found objects in unique ways - deconstructing and reconstructing - so cool!! http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/8/30/august-29-1 monthly 0.5 2016-09-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472973333644-49CVBUMELWZ0SV0WB4S6/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Gaudi - The Master Casa Milа (La Pedrera) was commissioned in 1906 and at the time it was controversial because of the undulating stone facade and twisting wrought iron balconies. It is wild looking today, imagine what they must have thought back then. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472682544672-SL51426DMOSHP4S1M9F6/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Gaudi - The Master The roof top of this building blows your mind with the way he finishes the chimney stacks and creates amazing sculptural endings. You can also see his light well - allowing light to enter the interior rooms. A must see - especially for artists!! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472975548088-IPUB6L2DJXDEW8M3MY5J/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Gaudi - The Master Detail of the roof chimneys and vents. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472975656750-JT6Z551YE0JHQI0F8C34/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Gaudi - The Master Casa Batllo - much of the facade is decorated with a mosaic made of broken ceramic tiles in shades of golden orange moving into greenish blues. It has skylights resembling tortoise shells and vaulted walls in curving shapes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472975519080-4V3EKPH0DNWF5PI05G1Z/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Gaudi - The Master Gaudi created a larger central light well which supplies light to the whole building and covered the walls in shades of blue tile. Light is very important to Gaudi. The main floor (noble floor) of the building is larger than 700 square meters. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472683154167-431T5SUFT6PXIO5WJ5QA/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Gaudi - The Master The ceiling swirls like a whirlpool in reverse and at its center is a beautiful light fixture reminiscent of a sun or flower. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472851243332-126JL2XMVDWRP64XJUXJ/P1050999-sm.jpg Blog - Gaudi - The Master There are large, curved windows to the street side so people could look in to see the important people inside and the people inside could watch the goings on outside on the Passeig de Gracia, which in the early 20th century was known as a prestigious and fashionable area. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472683871129-XK5SV8VIIVX5ABEAWDDN/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Gaudi - The Master The roof terrace is arched and looks like the back of a dragon. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472684023393-G5NJ94U5BS9KDSI20S5M/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Gaudi - The Master Constructed between 1894 and 1930, the Nativity facade was the first to be completed. It is dedicated to the birth of Jesus. It faces the rising sun to the northeast, a symbol for the birth of Christ. The Tree of Life rises above the door of Jesus in the portico of Charity. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472683948495-VUJDNG8K97EG85HUKYXX/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Gaudi - The Master Detail of the Nativity facade showing the birth of Jesus. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472684084466-DLJF6KLJRM3M5O0LI2U9/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Gaudi - The Master To Gaudí “sunshine is the best painter and the light changes with the time” being the result of a great symphony of color and light that changes throughout the day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472684127977-P3UQ7OUCYOQN56I3IUG8/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Gaudi - The Master The columns that rise far above you into the ceiling resemble tree trunks. By designing the columns this way, Gaudi was able to avoid using flying buttresses (commonly used in large Gothic Cathedrals like Notre Dame in Paris) to support the great load. Not only is it structurally sound, it is beautiful to look at. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472684256507-I5DB1UF89BDBYRIUW6D1/P1060240-sm.jpg Blog - Gaudi - The Master Gaudi’s mastery of how daylight can affect a building’s interior is evident here. The light shines through all levels of the stained glass windows - truly a sight to see. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472978979326-YLLA5D37B12R9M51SC7Y/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Gaudi - The Master Apparently there are paid and free areas of this park. We will do the paid area in a few days. This is a section of the wall outside the gated housing community - designed in a way to be beautiful and make it difficult for people to get in without an invitation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472685076233-O3Q835NP16MXY66N5FBC/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Gaudi - The Master An Aqueduct at Parc Guell. The free section is actually larger and showcases all of the various building lots that were available as well as the roads, paths and aqueducts Gaudi designed into the housing development. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/8/30/august-28 monthly 0.5 2016-09-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472631141451-AY1W5KHTA3ROK103GA3D/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Hola Barcelona Fernando Botero’s Horse right by the TI - welcome to Barcelona https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472682421949-YBOZ7FCSH5502K5TII8O/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Hola Barcelona OMG - I didn’t know our hotel was so close to Gaudi’s Casa Batlló, - I studied this and am totally geeking out right now. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472631087888-TT00LTOHEMHK1RCCY6VH/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Hola Barcelona Hello - are you kidding me - as we are walking down the street another Guadi building appears - Casa Mila. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472631181114-A6NO22XT05SVXDD4QH1B/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Hola Barcelona Our fancy “home” for 6 days in Barcelona - Hotel Casa Fuster. It’s like an exclamation point at the end of a grand boulevard. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472631227516-5A67A5QYU6IO34HVOVUM/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Hola Barcelona The doormen come to greet us. Okay, we will surrender our bags. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472631267566-7Q57G0SP2MAA1AZVBJTR/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Hola Barcelona The view from our balcony - La Sagrada Família pierces the sky. They don’t really have big skyscrapers here like we do in the states. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/8/30/august-27 monthly 0.5 2016-08-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472629799027-412LHWQDS6JEVAAHV1WD/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Lake Annecy pulls us in again Lake Annecy France - serving up a perfect day for boating and frolicking. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472629822155-MA5KN7KG886DLKD8DUKP/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Lake Annecy pulls us in again Fido along for the ride - that looks like fun. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472629855586-NMYGLNLJMDZ9A1C0Q9CV/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Lake Annecy pulls us in again 4 dudes on a paddleboat - time for some shenanigans. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472629887128-A5SL4Q2VGM8OO91M39FN/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Lake Annecy pulls us in again This is the place for CHEESE. Most people order fondue or raclette. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472629956543-1J3ZN39WKCDTGYE7ATAA/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Lake Annecy pulls us in again The clouds clinged to the mountains only letting the sun shine in to create this dazzling show. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/8/26/august-26 monthly 0.5 2016-08-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472590760230-E6WOIW01718N6AHK138Q/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Paddle Boat - Yabba Dabba Doo! Rue Royale, Annecy - just outside our hotel apartment. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472590935403-9UMWHACK4S3C4WXNNRPK/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Paddle Boat - Yabba Dabba Doo! The colorful flower boxes are the perfect accessory to dress up this beautiful canal. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472592375236-DS1T8V42UR20LN0RROAG/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Paddle Boat - Yabba Dabba Doo! Unplanned gelato stop - good decision. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472591841708-YHKM8FJD0DWJEEV29QHC/P1050751-sm.jpg Blog - Paddle Boat - Yabba Dabba Doo! The Canal du Vasse lined with little boats snuggled up next to each other - Pont des Amours bridge and Lake Annecy in the background. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472592011212-27BVRJSSLQE8VCHCS5TL/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Paddle Boat - Yabba Dabba Doo! This paddle boat is so cool - I want one maybe just a little bit bigger. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472592119811-0QPTYZR3LCDC9Z9T43D2/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Paddle Boat - Yabba Dabba Doo! The sail boat race was a bit slow - not much wind on the lake today - great for us though. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/8/26/august-25 monthly 0.5 2016-08-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472294159839-WQDIEB5KY17EOAQBZ38C/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Next stop - the French Alps One of the whimsical canals of Annecy. Dubbed the ‘Venice of the Alps,’ the winding cobblestone streets lined by pastel houses and bright flower boxes will make you fall in love with this small French town. They have amazing gelato shops letting you know you are close to Italy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472294338169-CL7OAUIIPC7MWYWB7OES/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Next stop - the French Alps The bike path that winds around the lake. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472294472390-0KZR9V09PMT90VEE428G/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Next stop - the French Alps What a view. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472294585120-JG9Z98UIN93BBCHHKVYG/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Next stop - the French Alps That looks like fun. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/8/25/august-24 monthly 0.5 2016-08-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472161142110-XU3TDV88AVER873FGGKP/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The view from 2002 meters Grape vines alongthe hills of Lake Geneva. Check out those views! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472161380319-FZMJO0YL6YGU7MX62OOI/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The view from 2002 meters The beginningof the bob-luge - anticipation… https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472161467932-QQ1135SM2DULZZP124FW/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The view from 2002 meters Fondue in the Swiss Alps - We were worried because we ordered the connoisseurs fondue - was it going to be stinky cheese? No - it was amazing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472161569675-BRVK9X9NK916QMIU3F2U/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The view from 2002 meters Another group of people arriving at the summit. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472161648278-HY5WF6F47302ZHWU6CIO/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The view from 2002 meters You can hear the cow bells and see the paths that lead downhill if you choose to hike down. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472161780064-19RJI6VHMAJJOUBJ9F82/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The view from 2002 meters A panorama at the summit. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472161949218-P00LGR8CKIXGNJSP279W/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The view from 2002 meters This is one of the most beautiful places on this earth - photos do not do justice. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/8/25/august-23 monthly 0.5 2016-08-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472159948179-JSRNXGLGBF8ZD28I0YRK/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Sun, sun, sun, here it comes What a cool idea - utilizing the ceiling space for an art piece. This tribute to the Olympic Capital can be found at the base of the metro stop at Ouchy. In 1915, Baron Pierre de Coubertin chose Lausanne to establish the headquarters of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). He moved to the shores of Lake Geneva where he found a more peaceful and stable environment in a time of war in Europe. In Lausanne, “the Olympic spirit will find an independent and proud atmosphere where reigns the pledge of freedom that it needs to progress”, declared the reviver of the modern Olympic Games at the time. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472204659474-LAY6S4XON3XQX8B86CBA/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Sun, sun, sun, here it comes Let the games begin! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472160871902-HD2WN6WCSKVDG16XZ0VV/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Sun, sun, sun, here it comes The promenade at Ouchy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472204704427-KPJ1MTT1AFZIRP4Z7YUE/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Sun, sun, sun, here it comes Chillon Castle is the most medieval that we have seen so far, both inside and out - I’m thinking Game of Thrones. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472160384398-XUS8UHF7L63YSFJQ4N85/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Sun, sun, sun, here it comes Here in the castle prison you can see the rock on which the castle is built - dating back to the 11th century. In its current state it dates from the 13th century; the Gothic vaults are typical of this architectural period. This prison owes its fame to Lord Byron who, in 1816 recounted the captivity of Francois Bonivard (1493-1570) in his poem “The Prisoner of Chillon.” On the wall you can see a plaque commemorating Lord Byron’s visit to the prison. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472160457456-1NNTGXWAJ3OAIDOE3OIG/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Sun, sun, sun, here it comes Aula Magna or Hall of Justice: In the Middle Ages the Savoys used this room as a reception, banquet or feasting hall. Here they received their vassals and dispensed justice. You can rent this room out for parties - how cool would that be! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472160525174-OFHDXKMEGLEIXUP4M7SO/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Sun, sun, sun, here it comes They had a very large display of wooden trunks used to store the possessions of the Nobles as they moved around to their various castles. The smaller ones like this one were used to store their more valuable possessions and documents. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472160237846-34BX8Y4CN1DFXCFIDBI7/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Sun, sun, sun, here it comes If you are brave enough to climb all the flights of very higgledy piggledy staircases (single file), you are rewarded with the amazing view at the top of the Keep - 25 meters tall. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1472204919810-8XM98EZ5FY3CRMP2QUFS/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Sun, sun, sun, here it comes Back at Ouchy to watch the sunset on beautiful Lake Geneva. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/8/22/august-22 monthly 0.5 2016-08-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471944572805-IHJ7WQGLWSM8LUG7MYQV/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Hi hi, hi ho, it's off to work we go. The urge to explore is great - we see this tower and find out the Tour de l’Ale is the last major remaining medieval fortification in Lausanne. Its size – 21 metres to the top of the roof and 8 metres in diameter – makes it one of the most spectacular sites in town. Built in 1340, its first role was to defend the suburb of Ale, a district standing outside the city walls, which at the time extended out from the Saint-Laurent gate. It also served as a keep, a self-sufficient fortified refuge. There is history around every corner in Europe! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471944626485-LDTL6434M1O8M0BTPZCW/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Hi hi, hi ho, it's off to work we go. Guacamole fixins and "go-juice" https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471944653890-S9JW3DZVTV0LRW6LBQYK/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Hi hi, hi ho, it's off to work we go. Bon appetit https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471944671061-BFBBV40E94EOC3YC9X3N/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Hi hi, hi ho, it's off to work we go. A bowl of mushroom soup with noodles - it does a body good :) http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/8/22/august-21 monthly 0.5 2016-08-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471909732295-CEEYB78EGFEYS8UBNXF1/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Yodel-ay-hee-hoo It was a 3 hour train ride so I decided to get some work done. My nose was planted in my computer then I looked up and said - oh crap - this view is amazing! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471909783802-S9IA9WPK3MTR48N0BN1K/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Yodel-ay-hee-hoo We have arrived in a new country and our new home base - the weather is perfect. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471909810436-8H2EM4IQTGO26BLMS44W/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Yodel-ay-hee-hoo On the walk to our hotel. This is the view from a bridge we walk over - it is clearly the French part of Switzerland - beautiful. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/8/22/august-20 monthly 0.5 2016-08-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471895257823-GYDJTD3L8X09X07Z0YXD/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Save the best for last Chenonceau Castle is an exceptional site not only because of its original design, the richness of its collections, its furniture and its decorations, but also because of its destiny, since it was loved, administrated and protected by women, who were all extraordinary and who, for the most part have marked history. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471895379273-52S3LZNKPUF6ADY5XPSQ/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Save the best for last This is Diane de Poitiers’ bedroom. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471895428531-18U8T3VKKVWAX0OIT2OF/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Save the best for last Hanging over the fireplace is Catherine de’ Medici’s portrait. The fireplace was created by Jean Goujon, a French sculptor of the Fontainebleau School, which bears the initials of Henry II and Catherine de' Medici: interlaced Hs and Cs that could be considered as forming the D of "Diane”. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471895480512-AYLCQN0EG8MXEQPLECCW/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Save the best for last The hall is covered with a series of rib vaults whose keystones, detached from each other, form a broken line - one of only 3 known in France. The baskets are decorated with foliage, roses, cherubs, chimeras, and cornucopia. Made in 1515, it is one of the most beautiful examples of decorative sculpting from the French Renaissance period. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471895553415-6IJ0ROJ83RXADSVDILGH/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Save the best for last The Gallery: In 1576, according to the plans of Philibert de l'Orme, Catherine de' Medici built a magnificent ballroom gallery upon the bridge of Diane de Poitiers. It was inaugurated in 1577 during festivities hosted by Catherine de' Medici in honour of her son Henry III. She threw many parties here - if I had a time machine, I might go back to this place during one of those parties. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471895673326-CXHTN3SI5OWGVGQFC5N1/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Save the best for last Louis XIV Drawing Room: In memory of the visit he made to Chenonceau on July 14, 1650, Louis XIV much later offered his uncle the duc de Vendôme his portrait by Hyacinthe Rigaud, with an extraordinary frame by Lepautre, made up of only four huge pieces of wood - as well as the furniture covered in Aubusson tapestries and a Boulle style console. On the Renaissance chimney, the Salamander and the Stoat conjure up the memory of Francis I and Queen Claude of France. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471895843201-MQAEGRMO9JM56W64LGUS/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Save the best for last Louise of Lorraine's bedroom: Following the assassination of her husband King Henry III by the monk Jacques Clément on August 1, 1589, Louise of Lorraine retired to Chenonceau in meditation and prayer. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471896683815-W0QX3AJ7ANQI2AIK2HBC/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Save the best for last The gardens are huge and beautiful. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471896307195-QZ2E8J8GFEHB2IW18T6A/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Save the best for last Detail of a planter in Dian's garden. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/8/22/august-19 monthly 0.5 2016-08-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471881506090-46WIYNULCZ72GOGTH6TY/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Tintin and Marlinspike Hall One of the crowning achievements of French Renaissance architecture, Chateau de Chambord is by far the largest, grandest and most visited chateau in the Loire Valley. Begun in 1519 by François I as a weekend hunting lodge, it quickly grew into one of the most ambitious – and expensive – architectural projects ever attempted by a French monarch. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471881593433-9W0WLJP3I5MAFZU4XVOO/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Tintin and Marlinspike Hall Just gaze upon a veritable skyline of cupolas, domes, turrets, chimneys and lightning rods. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471881664834-PM67T01RLV8L166OB8M5/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Tintin and Marlinspike Hall In the center of the structure is the world-famous double-helix staircase – reputedly designed by Leonardo da Vinci. Magically, two people can ascend in sight of one another but without ever meeting. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471881730369-JTRFWWP6OZXJDYJSH879/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Tintin and Marlinspike Hall Louis XIV's redecorated bedchamber, the grandest quarters in the chateau. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471881774103-K6ZJEHTGOSABBVYNHE4M/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Tintin and Marlinspike Hall Henri of Artois, Count of Chambord was eager to become the new king of France. He had his coronation robes made along with all the other regalia needed for the crowning of a monarch - including his throne. Sadly he never became the King of France and became known as the pretender to the throne of France. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471881841500-DLZ05J48S1LYM5SK99J6/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Tintin and Marlinspike Hall This is the lantern tower at the top of the double-helix staircase. It is here where you can access the rooftop - it’s so beautiful. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471881888820-01814JK0F655H7NQTPIW/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Tintin and Marlinspike Hall American-born author Henry James wrote, "This roof, which is in itself a sort of castle in the air, has an extravagant, fabulous quality, and with its profuse ornamentation, the salamander of Francis I is a constant motive, its lonely pavements, its sunny niches, the balcony that looks down over the closed and grass-grown main entrance, a strange, half-sad, half brilliant charm." https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471882595489-CML8ZN3FS2QE5BV27XTK/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Tintin and Marlinspike Hall The hounds of Cheverny. More than a hundred tricolor anglo-french dogs live here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471882664600-YKVNMQHNHDZ31NO67T8J/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Tintin and Marlinspike Hall Cheverny represents the zenith of French classical architecture: the perfect blend of symmetry, geometry and aesthetic order. The center section looks just like Marlinspike Hall from the adventures of Tintin. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471882733508-TMXAF7NTAD291IVW4U8F/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Tintin and Marlinspike Hall The Grand Salon: The woman above the fireplace is a portrait of Marie Johanne de la Carre Summery, Contesse de Cheverny, painted by Mignard, artist to Queen Ann of Austria. The harp is 17th century and in perfect working order - what! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471882787068-O0IVGBUSEEGH3L11T71B/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Tintin and Marlinspike Hall This small chest of drawers was made by Riesner, cabinet maker to Kings Louis XV and Louis XVI. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471882864974-10LUBU6QKX4YXQ85CAOU/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Tintin and Marlinspike Hall The fireplace in the Arms Room - the largest room in the chateau. This painting is attributed to Jean Monier and is about the death of Adonis. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471882968860-GA8RY9D8JLJNY2D39WB8/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Tintin and Marlinspike Hall A more intimate room showcasing some of the tableware housed within the castle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471883023834-RP6AFNTXA95O6WZSTTDW/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Tintin and Marlinspike Hall A view of the rear of the castle and a bit of the gardens. The symmetry is carried out in the gardens as well. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/8/20/august-18 monthly 0.5 2016-08-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471731002387-118JRIN68C7CU7660PSW/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The land of the Chateau The exterior of Chateau Usse. It’s amazing - I cannot even imagine living in a place like this. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471731182575-T503HM69VK8TKDWJGJ2O/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The land of the Chateau Chateau d’Azay-le-Rideau - a reduced rate because of all the restoration work occurring. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471731243260-5E1V3ED1B4TOKELDP0OB/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The land of the Chateau The Renaissance chamber was the bedroom of Philippe Lesbahy, wife of Gilles Berthelot. During the Renaissance, the château walls were covered with tapestries or rush matting, which insulated the rooms from the cold. This insulation method was thought to have therapeutic value - the smell of the reeds was supposed to expel bad moods and cleanse the air. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471731345913-8I3VGBGPYZLBFKHT8MWK/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The land of the Chateau Portrait of Francis I. He gave this chateau the ultimate compliment - he seized it, the owners had to flee, then in 1537 he gave it to his companion-in-arms, Antoine Raffin, where Raffin’s descendants lived until the 18th century. Francis was a patron of the arts and kicked off the French Renaissance. He patronized many great artists of his time, including Leonardo da Vinci, whom was persuaded to make France his home during his last years. Da Vinci brought with him many of his greatest works, including the Mona Lisa (known in France as La Joconde), and these remained in France after his death. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471731412114-1KK6505E8L53997PY2U4/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The land of the Chateau THE BIENCOURT SALON: This room has been restored to its 19th century state when the castle was owned by the Marquis of Biencourt. Thanks to the considerable fortune of his wife, the Marquis made the Château d'Azay-le-Rideau a popular place for its architecture and gardens but also for its collections, a veritable private museum open to visitors from the middle of the century. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471731490852-5SAEVJD62WA0G9WDH7A9/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The land of the Chateau The Château of Langeais has two different facades - feudal on the town side and Renaissance-inspired on the courtyard side This is the town side - I like the working drawbridge. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471731574023-BTFTYTA0H9SEB1OHXE8Y/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The land of the Chateau The Insignia Room: Anne of Brittany’s motto, “Potius mori quam foedari” (meaning “Death rather than dishonour”), can be read on the walls of this room. Her emblem, the ermine tail, can be seen in the ornamental tiling, alongside that of Charles VIII, the fleur-de-lis… Highlighted in this room are the portraits of King Charles VIII and Anne (duchess of Brittany). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471731768064-PT2V7XCWQ4IFTQ4YHXOS/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The land of the Chateau Portraits of Charles VIII of France and Anne of Brittany took place, at dawn on December 6, 1491. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471731837674-E6Y3KPREFJG6IXZSJ6LX/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The land of the Chateau This is one of 4 tapestries illustrating a deer hunt. Although a bit gory, the retention of color is amazing for a tapestry created in the late 15th century. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471731929917-MLZC04NJV07WR5OS36YY/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The land of the Chateau On the courtyard side, the façade corresponds to what a king or a lord would have wanted from his residence: a pleasant place to live, opening to the outside through beautiful windows. Construction lasted two years. The work had been entrusted to Jean Bourré, the king’s faithful advisor, and to Jean Briçonnet, also close to the king and, at the time, mayor of Tours. In July 1466, Louis XI ceded the château to his cousin, Dunois, the son of Joan of Arc’s companion. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471732251840-Z451Y8WZ678170XDGQEV/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The land of the Chateau The Magnificent Villandry - built around 1536 it is the last of the great Chateau’s built along the banks of the Loire. The three buildings that surround the main courtyard form a horseshoe opening onto the valley. To break up the monotony of the symmetry, sense of proportion and uniformity so beloved in the Renaissance style, the architect of Chateau de Villandry introduced some subtle differences: the wings are not exactly the same length, the alignment of the central windows is slightly off-center, etc. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471732336977-JV34F70T9988V6H9AMZU/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The land of the Chateau In the drawing room and study, the 18th century furniture is covered with Touraine silk that is still manufactured today. This is where Joachim Carvallo drew up the plans for cultivating the Kitchen Garden, among other things. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471732396371-PZCDH8N3SLYQO1UUU6YW/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The land of the Chateau Prince Jérôme’s bedroom: Under the First Empire, the Château de Villandry briefly belonged to Napoleon I’s youngest brother, Prince Jérôme. This episode in the château’s history is recollected by this bedroom with its mahogany furniture, shot red silks, and draperies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471732662696-ATV7R4Y3HX2551GAH8QR/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The land of the Chateau A close-up of one of the 9 Renaissance kitchen gardens. The 9 gardens are equal in size but with different geometric patterns in each. They are planted with flowers and vegetables used for the kitchens in the Chateau. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471732798053-HP1KBNR3N8LSO4PQI8D8/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The land of the Chateau In 1906, Joachim Carvallo bought Villandry and restored the castle and gardens back to their Renaissance glory. The 9 kitchen gardens are a feast for the eyes - and stomachs. In 2009 the gardens became organic, using no pesticides. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471733241631-F3YQBSD1P4K4LBEYQ6FY/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The land of the Chateau Here we are at the top of the Ornamental & Love gardens. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471732958764-GSDRF9ZEPZBYDMLU7DS2/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The land of the Chateau There are 4 squares that make up the love gardens; Tender Love, Passionate Love, Flighty Love and Tragic Love. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471733091031-R71S50YNE0NNMB9H8PCY/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The land of the Chateau This is a great view of the rear of the castle. You are able to go up to the rooftop in the round tower you see in the corner - the best vantage point to view all of the different the gardens from there. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/8/20/august-17 monthly 0.5 2016-08-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471730228385-WGV8CBMMG71RCZZMOA8H/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Chinon, the home of Jeanne d'ARC The benefit of having a car - when you see a field of sunflowers you can pull over and drink it all in. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471730345947-0FZEBK9TC8SI09DTAGY3/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Chinon, the home of Jeanne d'ARC We have seen a lot of bees here - that’s a good thing! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471730466722-4LOZSVSQRSLTX5NW5Z0I/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Chinon, the home of Jeanne d'ARC This sculpture of Jeanne d'ARC bu Jules Rousseau was created around 1893. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471730555750-U41NMJT6NXEC7QXZ4D8V/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Chinon, the home of Jeanne d'ARC The plane trees along the Loire river are magnificent. We have seen these trees at many of the Chateaus in the Loire Valley. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471730744951-MVN3HRM1J59MUEDE3OUA/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Chinon, the home of Jeanne d'ARC Tuck in your elbows - the town square shares real estate with autos. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/8/20/august-16 monthly 0.5 2016-08-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471728839045-WIRDUPJ75NICDHLWPRHB/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Normandy - American respect In France Omaha Beach where so many sacrificed their lives for our freedom. The beauty of nature triumphs over the evils of human-kind. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471728909163-BKFJ57R45BEHQ1LE6IBQ/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Normandy - American respect In France Amazing sculpture unveiled in 2014 in the presence of veterans. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471729440978-UJ36R4O77TPNJLI2R9W3/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Normandy - American respect In France This 70-hectare site was granted for life by France to the United States. It shelters the bodies of the Americans soldiers who died during the D-Day Landings and the Battle of Normandy. The graves are shaped into latin crosses for Christian soldiers and stars of David for Jewish soldiers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471729557789-3TOG6DG8KX2XE4JY9V8B/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Normandy - American respect In France Passing down the history to the next generation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471729623011-ZIREUWFCLA2PRF4ONIG6/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Normandy - American respect In France The memorial area at the cemetery. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471729681001-1B3N0GFOOZD20ORCZ9E1/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Normandy - American respect In France Installed at the centre of the memorial, a 7-meter-high bronze statue symbolizes the spirit of the American youth rising from the waves. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471729748322-OU0I2ZY2C4346BN5XGR4/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Normandy - American respect In France Longues Sur Mer was part of Hitler’s Atlantic Wall. Each of the four navy guns were protected by huge concrete casemates. The site of the battery also included a command post, several defensive machine gun posts and accommodation for the soldiers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471729892867-NAXY9LEF10UA5D3I1LKV/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Normandy - American respect In France The night before and on D-Day itself, this battery was subjected to heavy air and naval bombardments. Three of the four guns were silenced on June 6th; however, one remained firing until late into the evening, being captured the following day by the 231st Infantry. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471729981849-WPMIEET02A19IWDSH8YG/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Normandy - American respect In France You can still see the remnants of the man-made harbor. The port was meant to be temporary, lasting maybe three months. It served for some five months. The Arromanches Mulberry Harbour became known as Port Winston, after British wartime leader Winston Churchill, who was closely involved in its conception. A staggering 2.5 million men, 500,000 vehicles and 4 million tonnes of supplies arrived via Port Winston. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/8/18/on-the-road-againokay-i-got-this monthly 0.5 2016-08-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471556954686-Z1NP5NSTTXGRUF02LVLT/image-asset.jpeg Blog - On the road again... It says, “Thank you please pick up your contract at Hotel de Dieppe at the front of the station” I think? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471555787842-PT28O1WVKL6S7JRC8SOI/image-asset.jpeg Blog - On the road again... Here it is - right where they said it would be. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471556119276-QP6BQJU6GMYETBJR5ODF/image-asset.jpeg Blog - On the road again... The parking lot maze - the same all over the world. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471556326934-KW0SEOATY5R86L88W1HM/image-asset.jpeg Blog - On the road again... Driving over the 1.25-mile-long Normandy Bridge - the longest cable-stayed bridge in the Western world. This is where the Seine River ends and flows into the English Channel. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471558685594-41X1PUC4R5O2NUI92W5R/image-asset.jpeg Blog - On the road again... Honfleur is a picturesque sea-side town, filled with tourists (including us). The skinny houses were built for the town’s fisherman - at the time, the houses were taxed based on their width and not height. This is our view as we eat lunch along the harbor. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471557131432-R7UYQERFZWF14Z4NOX2R/image-asset.jpeg Blog - On the road again... Saint Catherine Church was built by local boat builders - not cathedral architects evidenced by the wood shingled exterior. It was built in 1466, however more space was needed so they added an additional nave in 1497. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471594137530-Q3S7Z3IMRC8XUIVB4UV7/image-asset.jpeg Blog - On the road again... Look at the ceiling - it looks like this church could sail if you flipped it over. Look at the newer wood on the left, in the last months of WWII a bomb fell through the roof, but didn’t explode. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471560871201-GURR426Y8FP42BCRLTQR/image-asset.jpeg Blog - On the road again... One of the many views that inspired so many impressionist painters. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/8/16/its-a-dead-mans-party monthly 0.5 2016-08-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471333050972-BRQS332XVIVWPA6YR7S3/image-asset.jpeg Blog - It's a dead man's party You walk for quite a while in the quarry tunnels - the audio-guide explaining how the walls and ceilings are kept where they need to be based on various engineering techniques - and also about past cave-ins. It’s a bit claustrophobic and you find yourself breathing a little faster hoping the next cave-in will not be any time soon. This part of the tunnel is where it opens up and you can see the engineering they were explaining. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471440912916-Q1V2OL3VUJXTC0NXOC9D/image-asset.jpeg Blog - It's a dead man's party Every once in a while you would find these artistic patterns and a stone revealing the cemetery where these bones were from. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471441007184-7CMPWV6RBIDR2BAVMY6N/image-asset.jpeg Blog - It's a dead man's party Is that Harry Potter's skull? (lightening bolt on forehead) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471440960122-TETXMHUO37C8VG2SUK8Q/image-asset.jpeg Blog - It's a dead man's party Six feet under times 10 - here we are below the subways and water works of Paris - it goes on and on. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471441061508-54263UKRKNFUB2O6OZ2M/image-asset.jpeg Blog - It's a dead man's party Our view while doing laundry - not bad Paris - this is one beautiful city. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/8/15/picasso-montmartre-arch-de-triumph-and-more-eifel monthly 0.5 2016-08-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471295273506-UK24EA5BM6Z2SWP22LIQ/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Picasso, Montmartre, Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Élysées and more Eiffel Woman with Hat is the transposition of a painting from 27 January 1961, the different elements cut out and soldered and Picasso applying a variety of colorful decoration. His work is so inspirational - we left there feeling the need to make some art! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471295302118-STUXD0L3O5WH3K3IEEPB/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Picasso, Montmartre, Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Élysées and more Eiffel We walked 11.29 miles today - the Montmartre funicular saved us some steps - and was free with our metro passes - FUNicular! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471295345538-HVSYYE6604G50W2H38O7/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Picasso, Montmartre, Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Élysées and more Eiffel A view of Paris from the steps of Sacré-Coeur Basilica. We have had beautiful weather every day since we arrived. It is the perfect temperature and you can see for miles. Just lucky I guess. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471295409145-D0UPW3NR4ARNQJCLNN43/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Picasso, Montmartre, Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Élysées and more Eiffel Sacré-Coeur (Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris) is located at the summit of the butte Montmartre, the highest point in the city. It’s both political and cultural - a national penance for the defeat of France in the 1871 Franco-Prussian War and the socialist Paris Commune of 1871 - crowning its most rebellious neighborhood, and an embodiment of conservative moral order, publicly dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, which was an increasingly popular vision of a loving and sympathetic Christ. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471295440552-F0NF6W66LZMBJO6HAJYV/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Picasso, Montmartre, Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Élysées and more Eiffel No pictures allowed - we snapped a few anyway. Interior and the dome at Sacré-Coeur. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471295478272-FMKKHXG7TGJL8F9H3X8N/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Picasso, Montmartre, Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Élysées and more Eiffel Napoleon commissioned the Arc de Triomphe to commemorate his victory at the 1805 battle of Austerlitz. The last two centuries of Parisian history has played out here - from Napoleon’s funeral to the Nazi occupation to the return of Charles de Gaulle after the Allied liberation. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471295538741-WBA31G7N15L0MYXLU3W5/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Picasso, Montmartre, Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Élysées and more Eiffel Looking down on the Champs-Elysées, the most famous boulevard in Paris. We are on top of the Arc de Triomphe (12 euros each but free with our museum pass) enjoying the views in every direction and watching the sun set. Louis XIV opened the first section of the street in 1667. Today it is home to large businesses, celebrity cafes, nightclubs, high-fashion shopping and international people watching. We strolled the full length after dark and it is truly a unique experience. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471295572073-C4UQUPIGT6FYRUBGMLNH/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Picasso, Montmartre, Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Élysées and more Eiffel We are on top of the Arc de Triomphe and the sun is setting - Eiffel Tower lights just came on - about 21:45 pm https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471295648600-4QAITMTB0ZU9JQ4CITBG/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Picasso, Montmartre, Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Élysées and more Eiffel We are on top of the Arc de Triomphe and the sun has set - Champs-Élysées Boulevard - about 22:15 pm. Let's take a walk shall we? http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/8/15/paris-highlights-day-1 monthly 0.5 2016-08-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471294573056-8EVFU2FBTBSY29NLKH3S/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Paris history walk and the Louvre The north transept rose window of Notre-Dame de Paris was installed c. 1250-60 when Jean de Chelles was architect. It features the Virgin and Child enthroned in the centre, surrounded by images of kings and Old Testament prophets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471294641806-5UI8NNX9IROXJ3OP4PPW/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Paris history walk and the Louvre View of the south side and the south rose window of Notre-Dame. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471294693920-QTW0DXBK8LO077Z2M1EX/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Paris history walk and the Louvre The church broke ground in 1163 and took 200 years to complete - dedication mass was in 1345. It is a gothic church with pointed arches and flying buttresses that allow greater interior spaces. The famous gargoyle rain spouts represent souls caught between heaven and earth. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471294772369-HKNUNF60OIH4VXN8PDZN/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Paris history walk and the Louvre This square is a historical gathering place. In 1830, 1848 and again in 1871 the citizens fought against the royalist oppression and in WWII people stood up against the Nazi’s. The area is fun to explore but now has a lot of tourist flooding the cafe’s. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471294853626-C80XNYYOJZBET67JNZ9S/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Paris history walk and the Louvre Along with the Conciergerie, the Sainte-Chapelle is one of the earliest surviving buildings of the Capetian royal palace on the Île de la Cité. It has one of the most extensive 13th-century stained glass collection anywhere in the world. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471294493770-YN2AWJISAVLCGWAV1N5B/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Paris history walk and the Louvre The Louvre - Second Empire meets 20th Century. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471294932632-Y0GSSFUXY8EJZRCT3VC2/P1030420-sm.jpg Blog - Paris history walk and the Louvre Yes, we saw the Mona Lisa - it was under heavy fortification and had mobs of people squeezing in to get a photo. The funny thing is that we saw 4 other Da Vinci’s that people were just walking by. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471294984167-AWF34HVA2PGR1V57DTBY/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Paris history walk and the Louvre Napoleon III's apartment (hard to call this an apartment really) was so unbelievably opulent - just dripping with gold, crystal, velvet, carvings, ornamentation - way more excessive than anything I have seen so far - It’s hard to even believe. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471295044294-G1XJ8OAT55IS75MN3QSQ/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Paris history walk and the Louvre This large drawing room typifies the taste of the period for opulent interiors. There is so much eye-candy it’s hard to even know what to look at. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471295755491-NGGNKP0P422M6QI1MYMN/P1030462-sm.jpg Blog - Paris history walk and the Louvre The big wheel at the end of the Champs-Elysées. It has a height of 70 metres (this is the world’s largest Ferris wheel) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1471295791793-S9DEB7J0VWZTXRX2ZL0R/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Paris history walk and the Louvre The capper of the evening - the eiffel tower. Dave and I were in awe - we couldn’t believe we were there - it is really quite stunning. We sat on a park bench drinking heineken’s and eating chips with one of the best views in the world - life is good! http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/8/11/where-to-stay-the-marais monthly 0.5 2016-08-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470956266153-5I48JQBXB4I2YCSWM8UF/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Where to stay - the Marais Our hotel - Metro stop St Paul - third street to the right - 3 Rue Caron - That was easy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470956355295-72PCFIZHJE67Z6RNOV1T/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Where to stay - the Marais Ice in America is abundant - in every hotel room is an ice bucket and somewhere down the hall is the machine that the guest can access at any time. Not so in the countries we have visited so far. In Iceland they looked at us weird when we asked for ice and they disappeared into the kitchen and returned with a small bucket. In Oslo the same look and we were told that they needed the ice - with coaxing they reluctantly gave two plastic cups of cubes. Our second hotel in London had a small, slow ice machine but they provided no bucket to retrieve the ice. Keep your plastic bag from the store - it makes an ice bucket with handles. At Disney Paris the bar area had no one there but their ice was precious - the guy only wanted to give us one small cup - we fought for two small cups. We arrived in Paris - our hotel is really nice and we ask for ice and again the guy disappears into the back - this was a new twist a flat plate with cubes. Better hurry the ice is melting. Are we crazy wanting a cold drink - stupid americans!!! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470956501342-MH7PXBO6F3ZGE1LHC0KN/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Where to stay - the Marais Our room is on the sixth floor - the windows actually open and this is our view - pinch me - are we really in Paris? Yes we are!! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470956664897-SBNDPOK3SY3TL3FU7W3I/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Where to stay - the Marais Go out our hotel front door, left up the street and it opens up into this small square with five different cafes. We reviewed each menu in French and picked one for dinner and a 50ML glass of Leffe beer. We are excited to explore the sites in the morning. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/8/11/paris-disney-crushes-it monthly 0.5 2016-08-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470944116465-9N5QBG7HPPY4W26VEGVI/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Paris Disney Crushes it! Stomach’s prepare - we are going on some roller coasters! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470944262139-31KWLICUF3461V81QJIB/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Paris Disney Crushes it! Alright soldiers - prepare for landing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470944662556-SLK3B2RCMQALRQKJKOLY/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Paris Disney Crushes it! Crush’s Coaster - one of the best rides ever! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470944816929-EN9NTBPZCQ63Y6S11EVJ/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Paris Disney Crushes it! You can fly, you can fly, you can fly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470945028118-ZHW4ABIFW2AKXSQ5JUZT/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Paris Disney Crushes it! Disney Dreams - this is the Lion King portion - it was really amazing - props to the design team! http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/8/11/mickey-mouse-oui-oui monthly 0.5 2016-08-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470943121911-HPRFD95HKG0X5VA7IGTA/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Mickey Mouse - oui, oui We took the Chunnel train from Ashford England to Lille France - then another train on to Paris Disney. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470943300042-MJ0LM2I2R8V8N4MUQITI/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Mickey Mouse - oui, oui We have arrived at Disney Paris - you can stay at this hotel at the entrance to the park - if you want to take out a second mortgage. Great location though! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470943386758-ED54R9FNDDJDL77LCSKD/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Mickey Mouse - oui, oui Watch out for the 7 of clubs! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470943566321-ZSQLLXQKTNLO0BIKRXTO/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Mickey Mouse - oui, oui Space Mountain is WAY better here - so great we rode it twice. If you look closely you can see the coaster rocketing through the cannon - you literally get shot through - awesome! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470943662126-GJHDP90JJSA9Q543W5KD/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Mickey Mouse - oui, oui Resting our dogs in the kiddie ride section :) http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/8/10/the-white-cliffs-of-dover monthly 0.5 2016-08-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470820659853-00B4G7DSOGLQ4POSNQRI/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The White Cliffs of Dover The cliffs are white because they are made up mostly of chalk mixed with flint - this was formed by tiny, microscopic sea life over 140 million years old. The cliff face reached up to 350 feet and is absolutely stunning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470820542795-GT191XHCG445HPBD8SGE/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The White Cliffs of Dover Our accommodations for the night - could the signage be any harder to find - maybe? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470820576157-R6E7OVTYBCS8D05VPKXY/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The White Cliffs of Dover In London you mind the gap - in Ashford, you mind your head. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470820725402-IHC8EQHVPCE5JF4DW8UT/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The White Cliffs of Dover View of the Dover sea port - very important to UK commerce. You can get an idea of scale by looking at the tiny person in the upper right corner. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470820789860-ZCL61A6UAP28TGEYY8LF/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The White Cliffs of Dover A view from the top of the lighthouse - this is the town of Saint Margaret’s Bay. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/8/10/last-day-in-london monthly 0.5 2016-08-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470819796576-W1PS2CEDV5WJ15T0PSQ5/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Last day in London One of the many sights on the bus tour - Ye Olde Cock Tavern - the most narrow bar in London. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470819841372-G9C9QTMBSO2A78WSUQYN/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Last day in London This is a view of one of the galleries to give you an idea of the spaces. They have whole rooms like this with one or two artists paintings filling the walls. When you see multiple works by one person you get a better idea of their style. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470819891516-0AU3M65YF6AIKC5J59LO/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Last day in London This is a very famous Rembrant self-portrait that both Monique and I remembered studying in art school. There were probably 15 paintings by him in this room alone and many other scattered about in other parts of the museum. The collection is mind boggling. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470819933001-RNI2FS5QUTDRO84F7FEH/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Last day in London Trafalgar Square - it has two mirrored fountains outside of the National Museum - it’s a great “people” space. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470819984006-T1WAGBZ2AUDZ0MVEEU5L/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Last day in London The hottest ticket in town - too hot for our budget - we might be back when it cools down a bit! http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/8/6/portobello-market monthly 0.5 2016-08-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470514350352-O9GQL4VP9DS4RXS408AX/P1020661-sm.jpg Blog - Portobello Market Market day https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470515207057-X7OM78L9MWYBVU4Y2C0J/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Portobello Market Paella 3 ways, chicken, mushroom and seafood - can someone please invent smell-o-vision! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470515247773-D9STONDE7MHEYU7GY8Q7/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Portobello Market Talk-in' 'bout, hey now! Hey now! I-ko, I-ko, un-day Jock-a-mo fee-no ai na-né, jock-a-mo fee na-né https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470515281695-FBVAVKMCJ6ZUYCT7R3WT/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Portobello Market The blue door from the movie Notting Hill - I'm glad I don't live there. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/8/6/platform-9-34 monthly 0.5 2016-08-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470481050756-K1WPWEG29HUG2GK2ATG6/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Platform 9 3/4 Kings Cross station - big and busy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470481090766-31M6HCIALHI5ZNCRUMX2/P1020646-sm.jpg Blog - Platform 9 3/4 Catching the train to Hogwarts. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470481201101-4L3C7AESF09OGC2Y3YFO/P1020652-sm.jpg Blog - Platform 9 3/4 Time to wash our clothes properly (sinks work great for some things…) Google maps saves the day again. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470481234805-JQE99SL7L1KEBTZGZNCA/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Platform 9 3/4 Goodbye St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel - I can imagine a flying car whizzing by can't you? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470481270518-OPU3UBA7MPT4GCPNMQSN/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Platform 9 3/4 On our way to the new hotel, we saw the make-shift memorial set up for Darlene Horton, the London stabbing victim - our new hotel is only 2 blocks away. You can notice an increased armed police presence around London - these are the unfortunate realities of the current time. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/8/6/downton-abbey-fans-unite monthly 0.5 2016-08-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470476861414-CWRDADW0TB8SPPRCO6ED/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Downton Abbey fans unite! The 5th Earl loved to drive fast cars (many tickets for speeding at 17 mph and above) and was seriously injured in a crash. The doctors told him the cold winters of England were not good for him. Because of his wife’s wealth, they decided to winter in Egypt. In 1922, after 16 years of searching, the 5th Earl of Carnarvon and Howard Carter discovered the tomb of Tutankhamun, the first global world media event. In the basement of the castle he shows off his collection of artifacts brought back from his Egyptian digs. Over the years he worked his way into better and better dig sites. His health was failing but he wanted to go one more time. He and Howard dug in a new place and found this major discovery. There are pictures showing him and Howard opening the tomb together. He died soon after. Pretty amazing and who knew. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470476892231-LU01WPCJ5Y43GQ77EDB7/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Downton Abbey fans unite! Highclere Castle is set amidst 1,000 acres of spectacular parkland. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470476944412-0R9U4RBZCC32FR7GYWRY/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Downton Abbey fans unite! To the south east of the Castle lies the Monks’ Garden – it’s name derived from the Bishops of Winchester who owned the Estate for 800 years before the Carnarvon family acquired it in 1679. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470476973036-5RIADL9M32ALD6QWN7AY/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Downton Abbey fans unite! The Carnarvon family has lived at Highclere since 1679, and the current Castle stands on the site of an earlier house, which in turn was built on the foundations of the medieval palace owned by the Bishops of Winchester for some 800 years. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470477004880-SOQOYWZWMCIO893ZAJJR/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Downton Abbey fans unite! Pinkie's up - it's afternoon tea at the Coach House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470477033677-ZWFUQ5I6NMD7KJS2GP91/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Downton Abbey fans unite! So much sugar, we got through about half of it - then sugar-buzzed out to the grounds. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/8/5/cathedral-palace-art-museumboom monthly 0.5 2016-08-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470433084570-MNTLT5UDZ8NR1PKTR9JO/IMG_2551-sm.jpg Blog - Cathedral, Palace, Art Museum...Boom A church has been on the spot of St. Paul’s Cathedral since 604AD. After the great fire of 1666, famous .architect, Sir Christopher Wren created the baroque masterpiece. What is amazing is that during WWII, there were 57 nights of bombing, yet, the Nazis failed to destroy the cathedral. Everything about it is over-the-top. If you saw Prince Charles and Diana’s wedding - this is where it took place. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470433153070-JU1RUWGI9Q54NG9CBVZ6/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Cathedral, Palace, Art Museum...Boom Kensington Palace exterior. The statue is of Queen Victoria. This was the royal residence before Buckingham Palace. Will and Kate live in a fully renovated apartment here, and Prince Harry lives in a “cottage” on the grounds as well - we didn’t see them though. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470433189961-QJ9PK600GIW9KIHJPFRT/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Cathedral, Palace, Art Museum...Boom This is the grand staircase leading into the King’s part of the castle. This section of the house is the most opulent - amazing paintings, frescos, furniture, flooring - the most fun to look at for sure. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470433235397-JJSX4MDW6E5WJQD6Z715/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Cathedral, Palace, Art Museum...Boom This is a secluded sunken garden on the grounds, lovingly cared for. We fed peanuts to a few of the inhabitants - a couple birds and their babies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470433303993-IRBK18XF9PFNZQ75S349/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Cathedral, Palace, Art Museum...Boom This Picasso is in the Tate Modern - a converted powerhouse just on the other side of the river from St. Paul’s cathedral. The museum is free - a nice surprise when we got there. This is “Weeping Woman”, 1937 by Pablo Picasso - painted in response to the bombing massacre (by the Nazis) in the town of Guernica. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470433356465-H88L91WYGVKPGGPHO9WH/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Cathedral, Palace, Art Museum...Boom Victor Vasarely - “Supernovae”, 1959-61. He is known as the father of op art. We have one of his silk screen prints - it’s so cool to see his work in a big museum like this. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470433409623-NRKF3E39DP9FGVRMPNZD/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Cathedral, Palace, Art Museum...Boom We encountered a spontaneous bubble invasion while walking along the Thames River. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/8/3/mind-the-gap monthly 0.5 2016-08-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470210451576-RX8DTFTVQBWUB8B0WR4S/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Mind the gap The Tower of London - In the 1070’s William the Conqueror began to build a massive stone tower at the center of his London fortress to dominate the skyline and intimidate the subjects of London. It is still standing nearly 1000 years later. Over time it has grown into a walled fortress with many buildings and square footage. The Tower has served as a castle in wartime, a king’s residence in peacetime - also a prison and execution site - Ann Boleyn, Sir Thomas More and other unfortunate souls lost their heads here. Now it houses the crown jewels, and yes, they are the real ones. Ornate, huge stones and gold, gold, gold. (WOW) and the armory along with thousands of tourists during the day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470210493867-HH0KCK22MBU011VJZQMB/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Mind the gap Our cheeky Beefeater (Yeoman Warder) Guide. The beefeater’s duty was to guard the tower, it’s prisoners and the jewels. Her historical talk was woven with bloody tales and corny jokes - we absobloodylootely enjoyed it! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470210545682-7JVS1LPOTTWV9VM6PJXG/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Mind the gap Prince Henry Stuart’s armour, (about 1608) is decorated with bands of chased and gilt strapwork containing scenes from the life of Alexander the Great, to whom Henry was often compared in literature. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470210592568-673JWS9FOEHZVR3E9IXP/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Mind the gap Tower Bridge is a combined bascule and suspension bridge in London built in 1886–1894. The bridge crosses the River Thames and still opens up for larger boats to pass. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470210637131-0XZ4ICNVCPHEO2TEK4TH/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Mind the gap Big Ben is the nickname for the Great Bell of the clock at the north end of the Palace of Westminster. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470210678200-HZK7MFTTVKL7GM8LKOWX/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Mind the gap Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain at Piccadilly Circus http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/8/2/unpack-the-raincoats-were-in-london monthly 0.5 2016-08-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470119599375-6HVV2HOGITIXS7VO8AFP/IMG_2403-sm.jpg Blog - Unpack the raincoats - we're in London P Hotel in Bergen - a simple, clean, budget room - cost: $98 a night - paid in cash. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470119668921-HT4DZLQGZZB4ITMV4BM4/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Unpack the raincoats - we're in London St Pancras Renaissance Hotel in London - an opulent, posh, bathrobes and slippers, historic hotel - cost: $110 a night plus 200 points - membership has it’s rewards. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470119733155-PBWY2QWE5HGT5WFEXH37/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Unpack the raincoats - we're in London The busy streets and walkways of London, where raincoats and umbrella’s are standard issue. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470119774824-VDJ9J44RNROF5C2R8UTK/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Unpack the raincoats - we're in London Wandering along and what do we see - a marker identifying the walkway Jubilee. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/8/1/rainy-days-and-nights monthly 0.5 2016-08-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470091063618-UBWFEPGWDP7SPAVYYQXI/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The pot of gold The Kviknes Hotel - owned and run by the Kviknes family since 1877. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470091123488-BI0Y2UMIABV5ETOCUHHC/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The pot of gold St. Olaf's Church was the inspiration for the chapel where Elsa is crowned Queen of Arendelle in Frozen. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470091168802-SL9AA4TQW2GFHSWD3HFT/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The pot of gold The interior of St Olaf's church. It's beauty comes in it's simplicity. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470091227938-3EBU96LA8PXMHKOWQ6RA/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The pot of gold We were settling into our seats, thinking it might rain the entire ferry ride. But the fjord’s weather is very unpredictable and there were spots of sunshine which created some surreal skies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470091259730-48PDETCK68M0LV4PSMRD/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The pot of gold In case you were wondering where to find the pot of gold - it’s in Norway, in that little white house. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/7/31/a-page-from-rick-steves-guidebook monthly 0.5 2016-08-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469999884747-KV4WVRDJHA71EN1B1OZJ/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A page from Rick Steve’s guidebook Dropped off in Vik - the only noise is the ferry boat leaving. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469999964357-M9FVI2PHGVSAWFE8M6A3/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A page from Rick Steve’s guidebook Hopperstad Stave Church is one of the oldest stave churches in existence. Built around 1140, just 10 years before Norway became a separate province under the Pope in Rome. Norwegians were seafaring people who used the long-standing tradition of building in wood. For the curved arches they looked for branches that were big enough to allow the arch to be carved from a single piece making in much stronger. It has withstood the test of time because the timber base frame rests on stone a foundation so the wood does not contact the earth. It was common to bury the dead under the church floor but the practice was banned in the beginning of the 19th century on account of the unpleasant smell. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470000010593-VKZ8970RZ6GMCCIBOOHL/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A page from Rick Steve’s guidebook The interior of the church. You can see similarities between the viking ship construction and this style of church. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470000120072-CNBO3IO54ZZ1M2ZCXSO2/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A page from Rick Steve’s guidebook They view from the external gallery of the church into the outskirts of the town of Vik. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470000201191-TBDQ073O4HNHRBYZHQUW/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A page from Rick Steve’s guidebook A view from the glacier tour boat - it was hard to choose just one photo - it’s so beautiful. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470000255318-GWCOCEOTMTNHHMIARYQQ/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A page from Rick Steve’s guidebook We are now in the Fjaerlandsfjord. You can see 2 tongues of the glacier in the V shapes as you arrive. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1470000299360-6OHCGQ9GXJJDUP7932BF/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A page from Rick Steve’s guidebook This is one of the fastest melting glaciers - as it recedes, what is left is this big glacial lake. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/7/30/we-scored-with-the-fjord monthly 0.5 2016-07-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469906860397-RX2D8990SGJ0UWKI42Q6/image-asset.jpeg Blog - We scored with the Fjord Here we are on the platform waiting for the Flamsbana train. The temperature is cooler, but the sunshine feels great. We met some cool people on the train and we are all excited to see what awaits us in this Norwegian wonderland. (This one's for you Beth & Matt) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469906936070-ANBZMWMGA66M1II39JHP/image-asset.jpeg Blog - We scored with the Fjord I guess the Flamsbana train is called a scenic train ride for a reason. Picture perfect scenery around every bend. There’s snow up high in July - we’re not in Kansas anymore. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469907014137-XKW73CLPZ6275K0KXZS4/image-asset.jpeg Blog - We scored with the Fjord Arrived in Balestrand. This is a view of downtown. The fjord does funny things to the weather - constantly in flux, all the moisture creates a lush environment - moss and dew drops and berries - oh my! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469907067545-FLWLTMC503DJT6XMXI33/image-asset.jpeg Blog - We scored with the Fjord Wandered out of town a bit. Can you imagine waking up to this every day - it’s going to be hard to leave. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469907119419-RS8P66U7HO2O2K1ETIVV/image-asset.jpeg Blog - We scored with the Fjord The view from our hotel room - 180° of wow. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/7/30/so-much-to-see-so-little-time monthly 0.5 2016-07-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469902007964-5DES1MPI4GZDI0X65P02/image-asset.jpeg Blog - So much to see, so little time Oslo City Hall opened in 1950. It is decorated with motifs from Norwegian history, culture and working life. This is where the Nobel Peace Prize is awarded. The paintings and frescos are monumental, covering nearly every wall. The political and administrative leadership works here, yet it is open to the people of Norway and all visitors - amazing. This building also holds receptions for heads of state and other dignitaries. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469898986693-FKG8HZ8IPUN19U8NSKP0/image-asset.jpeg Blog - So much to see, so little time This is a small section of a very large fresco on the wall when you come into the main room of the Oslo City Hall. This section represents the three pillars of commerce - fishing (the guy in the boat), manufacturing (the guy with the sledge hammer and the furnace behind him) and the merchant trader (the guy with the beads). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469899064604-LT1TGADE31PCWC61O7PL/image-asset.jpeg Blog - So much to see, so little time The Vigeland museum was created for the most famous Norwegian sculptor, Gustav Vigeland (1869b-1943d). Norway paid for his studio, housing and promised him his own museum in exchange for the rights to all of his artwork. In the foreground you can see a model of his concept for the Monolith - one of the larger concentrations of sculptures. In the background are the life-sized plaster castings to be used to create the final sculptures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469899124428-5X2Z84ANKPD35S5TMU9Q/image-asset.jpeg Blog - So much to see, so little time The unique sculpture park is the life work of the sculptor Gustav Vigeland with more than 200 sculptures in bronze, granite and cast iron. Vigeland was also responsible for the design and architectural outline of the park - a monumental artistic creation with a human message that is well worth seeing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469899161899-6JY4MUBH39TWYKDRRHGE/image-asset.jpeg Blog - So much to see, so little time The park is open all year at all times and is a popular recreation area. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/7/27/oslo-the-city-of-edvard-munch monthly 0.5 2016-07-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469650053538-PADPFQJI2JXFA74X93NW/P1010157-sm.jpg Blog - Oslo, the city of Edvard Munch Our moving hotel - and move it does. Around 2:30am we made it into open seas and she started a rocking’ and a rollin’. I had a hard time getting back to sleep but I talked myself off the ledge - convincing myself that the ship had made the journey many times before and it would make it at least one more time. I took this sunrise pic at 4:30am and was able to fall back asleep shortly after. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469650124302-E2P68YSZZWN4YZK54IVM/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Oslo, the city of Edvard Munch The MS Crown of Scandinavia pulling into one of Oslo’s cruise ship docks. It was amazing to watch this very large ship maneuver into the correct position with ease. First look at Oslo shows that it is a shipping port yet the older buildings in the background get me excited about it’s history. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469650229232-WIWWIIMMVN3KTLBXIV93/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Oslo, the city of Edvard Munch This is the notorious train that messed with both our brains. We studied the train maps and knew this was the train we needed. We got on and it didn’t stop at any of the places we wanted - only Solli. What the hell! We got off at the theater stop knowing it went blocks past were we were planning to go. As we walked back to the restaurant we realized they were tearing up all the streets in that area. Eureka! We are not dumb - you just have to know what is going on in the city. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469650322878-JU0FAFTQPN7R10F6PLIX/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Oslo, the city of Edvard Munch I was so excited when I learned that one of Edvard Munch’s The Scream paintings, was on display at Oslo’s National Gallery. When we entered the room I could barely contain myself. There were so many amazing pieces of work here from the likes of Munch, Van Gogh, Picasso, Rodin, Cézanne, Manet and many more. There is also a great amount from Scandinavian artists, showing much of the scenery and reflecting the history of the region. It is exciting to see these works of art while being in the actual surroundings that inspired them - so much better than looking at them in a book. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/7/27/ferry-to-ferry monthly 0.5 2016-07-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469614308609-WV625O44HX6KOACLBCM3/IMG_1837-sm.jpg Blog - Ferry to Ferry Leaving Areo Island and soon leaving Denmark. The wind blows the Danish flag in the direction of our journey - north to Oslo. Hej hej Denmark. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469614379791-3DVTG2D6KM9ZATMSG08J/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Ferry to Ferry Right next to the Christainsborg Palace is Thorvaldsens Museum - on the roof of the museum the goddess of victory drives her team of four and expresses the fame that Thor­valdsen achieved with his art. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469614428376-SVPTIU1USRZ0F2BV6HZS/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Ferry to Ferry Walking back to the Copenhagen train station on Stromgade Street. A couple of nearly-naked guys hanging out with leafy drawers on the side of a building. If on a budget you can find this type of attire anywhere - just FYI. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469614477235-LHQTXBFKPDBAKK12LA6U/IMG_0351-sm.jpg Blog - Ferry to Ferry Our ferry to Oslo. On board we had a late lunch - took the elevator to deck 11 and munched on complementary snacks and cocktails on our stateroom balcony - super deluxe! We had a surprisingly delicious meal at dinner - so far the seas are smooth but the wifi is slower than dial-up - low expectations are the key to happiness. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/7/25/mode-of-transport-for-today-the-bicycle monthly 0.5 2016-07-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469483007967-FF1LWZ2YQ2PCVC3SSX4C/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Mode of transport for today - the bicycle What a beautiful place - wheat fields butted up against the sea. The funny thing is that they have the same prairie plants and weeds that you find in Wisconsin. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469483242401-N4ITBC34O6U5OJEUT0JY/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Mode of transport for today - the bicycle A beer flight for me and a golden for Monique. Good reward for all the pedaling. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469483158441-HHOCC4XVIFW5AGQH9VCZ/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Mode of transport for today - the bicycle In Denmark they have bike locks that are permanently attached and lock the back tire. They have metal tabs that you push in or out to figure out the code - we are learning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469483099807-KAOWF9XHTW3NT80ZW95Q/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Mode of transport for today - the bicycle Mostly farmers inland on the island. I looked in the gap between two houses and saw this field. The island hopes to be energy self sufficient in the coming years and they are well on their way. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/7/24/slow-it-down-a-little monthly 0.5 2016-07-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469441872003-RI3AOMET22Q34H2XQ9BU/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Viking ships to ferry boats Denmark's Viking roots are on display in this museum. Five boats of different types were scuttled in the harbor to make it impossible for anyone other than local sailors to enter the harbor. They were discovered in Roskilde fjord, brought up and like a puzzle reassembled in the 60's. You really get a sense of the amazing ship building skills needed to build these large vessels. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469441926561-JJ4Z0CDSXHVJLONWRIS6/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Viking ships to ferry boats Another nice sunny day and a couple of beers and the ferry arrives at Aero. The passengers come out the side and the nose of the boat opens to allow the many cars to exit onto the island. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469442035519-W9RUSCPP3DQ5HP9E18QH/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Viking ships to ferry boats The fairy tale island is just as you would expect. Cramped, cozy houses each unique and living in perfect harmony holding each other up like good friends. The cobblestones are rock, not brick - meant to stand the test of time. You can't help but smile a little wider. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469442080586-LNCGSXFQFOM1UKN4S2FM/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Viking ships to ferry boats Jackpot http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/7/24/the-old-and-the-new monthly 0.5 2016-07-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469395276699-87IM4VTGEM992R7SLAHD/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The old and the new Frederiksborg Castle is the largest Renaissance Castle in Scandinavia and incorporates the best of Renaissance architecture and craftsmanship. A tour through the museum is a tour through 500 years of Danish history illustrated by portraits, history paintings, furniture and decorative art. I was amazed by the accessibility of all the precious works of art. It was all right there unprotected - if you were clumsy, you could knock over a 600 year old vase or damage a priceless painting, but alas, no worries, they trust that you will not damage their irreplaceable history - Go Denmark! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469395329468-YFAHHK78TOFC165S5VEU/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The old and the new This is the chapel - it is two stories and extends along the entire length of the west wing, has the oldest pipe organ in Denmark, a richly decorated six-vaulted stucco ceiling - kick-ass! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469396721391-9U7AZ0PZC5PJ6LLJQUQ4/P1000825-sm.jpg Blog - The old and the new This is the great hall which is above the chapel - how on earth did they make this without any support beams?? There are 3 giant chandeliers which lit the rooms - the orchestra played in the black ebony balcony - the opulence is dripping. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469397731747-PS9A7FMQKG0THKMQZXI9/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The old and the new Louisiana is all about spaces and places without a map. The location of the permanent art collection changes regularly (with the exception of the gold thumb) depending on the special shows that come to town. It is a modern, underplayed museum where building, landscape and artworks each intermingle in elegant ways. Around every corner is something new. One of the exhibits was called Picasso before Picasso - showing his early sketches - great insight to his early thoughts. We were impressed with the number of Alberto Giacometti sculptures, the large Henry Moore pieces and Joan Miró sculptures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469398812246-3TRYFYF5MCJV0EARVOY8/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The old and the new Alberto Giacometti - Femmes De Venice 1956 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469397998866-FS6JQDX2H20FD2657PTQ/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The old and the new Henry Moore - Three piece Reclining Figure: Draped - 1974, 75 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469398131915-8KK99KZ4JE6GF9FT63LB/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The old and the new Joan Miró - Personnage - 1970 http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/7/22/the-happiest-city-in-the-world monthly 0.5 2016-07-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469220621633-8Y976X9LZAT34ETYIBJT/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The happiest country in the world Another beautiful day in Copenhagen. After our walking tour, we wanted to check out the canals and harbor on a canal boat. We left from Nyhaven which was originally a busy commercial port but now the colorful old houses have been renovated and turned into restaurants and shops and filled with people enjoying the relaxed atmosphere by the canal. No. 9, Nyhavn, is the oldest house in the area dating back to 1681. Many of the houses here have been the homes of prominent artists. Hans Christian Andersen, lived here. This is where he wrote the fairy-tales 'The Tinderbox', 'Little Claus and Big Claus', and 'The Princess and the Pea'. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469220803425-ASO55JODRGS6FQ7SDT88/P1000695-sm.jpg Blog - The happiest country in the world We visited the Rosenborg Castle and Treasury. The castle is a Dutch Renaissance-style castle built by King Cristian IV in the early 1600’s - AMAZING! From the 1700’s Rosenborg was no longer used as a residence, but became the place where the kings placed their oldest and rarest of objects. The king's crown (foreground) weighs more than two kilos and is set with sapphires, garnets and diamonds. The ruby, with the sapphire stripe at the top is very unusual and is the most expensive jewel on the piece. The queen’s precious stones come from an older crown (1648) and was made for Christian VI’s wife - Queen Sophie Magdalene. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/7/22/a-danish-krone-for-your-thoughts monthly 0.5 2016-07-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469217706591-LX211PZT2M88S2Y66T7J/IMG_1459-sm.jpg Blog - A Danish krone for your thoughts Our taxi was scheduled for 6:00am then 45 minutes more to Reykjavik airport. Because it was raining, they bussed us to our plane - then we had to run from the bus (in the rain) up the very wet metal (slippery) stairs - carrying our bags. We were on the first bus, so we waited for another 2 bus loads of people while it rained in on our seats - the door was still open and we were in the exit row. Then we waited another 20 minutes for 1 young girl who had something wrong with her ticket - I’m glad we didn’t have a connecting flight. Still smiling - The weather in Copenhagen is sunny and warm - can’t wait to land! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469217750161-HE5T78UNALRFHHSS0XGZ/image-asset.jpeg Blog - A Danish krone for your thoughts We arrived in Copenhagen, got our Copenhagen Cards (which covers the cost of public transportation and entrance into most of the popular sights), hopped on the metro and headed into the city. After we settled into our hotel, we got some food, wandered around and decided to go to Tivoli Gardens amusement park. It was founded in 1843 and fairy tale writer Hans Christian Andersen visited many times, as did Walt Disney and many other celebrities, who all fell in love with the gardens. I cannot believe how many rides, restaurants, gardens, buildings, stages, concert venues, games, etc, etc they packed into this tiny area - the planning of this magical park is a design feat unto itself - I love it. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/7/20/naked-but-not-afraid monthly 0.5 2016-07-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469051443049-DP7PWV0E7HO4MJ23AIZJ/IMG_1452-sm.jpg Blog - Naked but not afraid So in Iceland whenever you go to a hot springs or public swimming pool - ya gotta get naked and use soap on all the areas indicated in the photo. There’s even a person in the showers making sure everyone follows the rules - when in Rome… The pool was really nice - there were a lot of people there and it is open late. It had 3 large swimming pools with kid’s playing areas, a big water slide and a lot of hot tubs at varying temperatures - from practically freezing to really hot (46° - 104°) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469051821476-ENCZ0VBL9AR35MY26OBT/IMG_0274-sm.jpg Blog - Naked but not afraid This place is called The Laundromat Cafe - and that’s what it is - a full restaurant/cafe on the main floor with a large children’s play area and washers and dryers in the basement. The shocker - for 2 loads of laundry (washer, dryer and soap) it costs 3,300 Icelandic Krona or $26.93 - ouch! For that much, the dryer should have actually dried the clothes - we had to hang them on our hotel balcony to finish the drying process. Well we will be fresh and clean for Denmark - our taxi arrives for us at 6:00am http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/7/20/acting-more-like-a-local monthly 0.5 2016-07-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469048017484-1R5N2NTTN3WGRGNRPYHY/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Pedaling around the town This is at the whale museum. The whale replicas are displayed actual size - it's kind of amazing how big they are. This is a humpback whale - like the one's we saw on our whale watching tour. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1469048428166-3MQRO33P7MT24VCFVYHR/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Pedaling around the town This is Solfarid or The Sun Voyager created in 1990. It's a huge stainless-steel sculpture of a boat by Jón Gunnar Árnason, set on granite beside the sea. When we drove by it the other day there were tons of kids playing on it. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/7/18/the-golden-circle monthly 0.5 2016-07-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1468869371720-LH5DGBCP8BTA68IAXWKW/P1000366-sm.jpg Blog - The Golden Circle The Gullfoss is a delight for all senses - visually stunning, loud, yet calming, the smell of earth and water, the mist is cold and refreshing. Walk another few feet and the view is so different - it is one of nature's beauties. The water comes from glacial melt flowing along the Hvitá river. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1468869686676-F36QZ6FMXGWU0CAPDPJC/P1000460-sm.jpg Blog - The Golden Circle In Iceland you can witness the collision of two continents - and it is stunning. The violence created is right there before your eyes - boulders cut in half, huge cracks and fissures. This is where Europe and America meet - and in the "no man's land" between the two plates is the largest lake in Iceland. On its northern shore stands Thingvellir, the historical meeting place of the Althingi (parliament) from 930 until 1798. This is a sacred place for Icelanders and after being here, I can see why. Also, the water from the lake is the water you drink in Iceland - no need to purify - when it enters the lake from the glacier, it has taken 100 years. On a side note - some of the filming for Game of Thrones (north of the wall with the wildlings) was filmed here - but in winter of course.   http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/7/17/the-consonant-to-vowel-ratio-is-out-of-balance monthly 0.5 2016-07-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1468863899339-K0HVNFN74K1X2RAGHMMR/P1000289.JPG Blog - The consonant to vowel ratio is out of balance Strap on your crampons and helmet, grab your ice pick and follow the leader up the glacier - Sólheimajökull glacier that is. (Nicknamed Mordor by the guides) This glacier is huge, we hiked up it - it took about an hour to reach the top. To give you an idea of scale, there are people in the upper left of the photo that look like tiny red dots. All of the black is ash from previous volcanic eruptions. The ash collects in holes, then acts like an insulator - allowing the ice to melt around it - creating these pointy ice hills on top of the glacier https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1468865453683-31BKOC0KXMCX6SNGLFO6/IMG_1310.JPG Blog - The consonant to vowel ratio is out of balance The Skógafoss waterfall is one of the biggest waterfalls in the country - 82 feet wide with a drop of 200 ft. We had to climb a bunch of stairs to get to a landing - this was Dave's first picture, then the rainbow disappeared - there was a guy up there for 2 hours waiting for the rainbow and he missed it - just lucky I guess. The waterfall was a location for the filming of the Marvel Studios film Thor: The Dark World, as well as The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/7/16/we-had-a-whale-of-a-time monthly 0.5 2016-07-16 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1468703260557-F9MIB0OH6EBGJB3AZSSL/P1000025.JPG Blog - We had a whale of a time They call it Þúfa. When we were leaving the harbor we saw this grassy mound and of course we had to check it out when we were back on land. It was commissioned by a fish company and created by a local woman artist, Ólöf Nordal. The path winds around and you ascend to the top. That little house on top has dried fish in it - I guess that's your reward??? Regardless - this is one quirky, cool art piece - who knew Reykjavik was so filled with amazing and very accessable art. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/7/15/land-of-fire-and-ice monthly 0.5 2016-07-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1468617348043-6315SIYSGDKZJZSX054P/IMG_0173-lighten.jpg Blog - Land of Fire and Ice We came around the corner and boom - this mural popped out - so much color on a gray day. I'm not sure what the meaning is, but it's pretty freakin' awesome. Wandering the side streets can pay off big. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1468617649032-BRDAH8I1Z1TY3P107VLG/IMG_0122-lighten.jpg Blog - Land of Fire and Ice Hallgrímskirkja church is Reykjavík's main landmark and its tower can be seen from almost everywhere in the city. The church features a gargantuan pipe organ designed and constructed by German organ builder Johannes Klais and is an impressive 15m tall and weighs 25 tons In front of the church is a statue of Leifur Eiriksson (c. 970 – c. 1020) – the first European to discover America. Leifur landed on the shores of the new world in the year 1,000 A.D., that's 500 years before Christopher Columbus. The statue, which was designed by Alexander Stirling Calder was a gift from the United States in honour of the 1930 Alþingi Millennial Festival, commemorating the 1,000th anniversary of the establishment of Iceland's parliament at Þingvellir in 930 AD. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/7/14/good-bye-usa-hello-europe monthly 0.5 2016-07-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1468554607996-MQHMY2EUOXMF8FGFKO5K/IMG_0073.JPG Blog - Good-bye USA, Hello Europe The birds-eye view of the Boston Harbor at 2:30 (14:30) It's sunny and the temperature is in the upper 80's https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1468554645561-A1DROGPIIMC6PRPNCUC9/IMG_0084.JPG Blog - Good-bye USA, Hello Europe Arriving in Iceland at 23:40 and darkness doesn't come. Here it's raining and a bit colder - 20° C http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/7/13/the-home-of-paul-revere monthly 0.5 2016-07-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1468552847675-THLPFM8BICC8PAPEU0BD/IMG_0036.JPG Blog - The home of Paul Revere We were in the last row on the Southwest flight as the stragglers were looking to find a seat - we saw this woman and we were rooting for her to sit by us. She did! her name is Marilyn Flowers from New Orleans - it was her 60th birthday today. She was meeting her friend from Denver to visit the Eastern coast of the US. She's our kind of people. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1468515787376-VMK44WPXO10XJD55QIJT/IMG_0058.JPG Blog - The home of Paul Revere What do you do when you are in Boston? Walk the Freedom Trail of course. This is at Bunker Hill where a battle was fought on June 7th, 1775 - and although the British won this battle - they lost half their troops and it was a moral victory for the Patriots - it proved they could stand up against the British. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/7/14/re-lo-cubewho-knew monthly 0.5 2016-07-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1468552206059-F4CSIBYI2FNDXNTE5BW7/IMG_8371.JPG Blog - Re-lo Cube...who knew Nothing like packing and moving in 90 degree weather - I guess we should be glad it wasn't raining. Trisha and Joe will be driving the Prius (with Jelly) to Dallas as we fly to Boston - have fun unpacking guys. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/7/14/georgias-on-my-mind monthly 0.5 2016-07-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1468551510786-R3W2LIIKSF54KYI6FV6Q/IMG_0025.JPG Blog - Georgia's on my mind 12 hour drive from Elgin to Blue Ridge - and in the morning we're eating waffles! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1468551553952-3T7WA43W6FJB08W3CSVT/IMG_0031.JPG Blog - Georgia's on my mind Trisha and Joe playing Pokémon Go. Oh it's just another Pidgey - wait is that a Zubat - OMG I just got a Rattata. We love these nerdy people - they even caught Pokémon when we were driving - they have skills. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/7/09this-shit-is-getting-real monthly 0.5 2016-07-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1468276323235-V5ZJKO7P2WGWYT5V1PDT/image-asset.jpeg Blog - This shit is getting real Harrison and I are taking care of Liam while Dave and Sara are having a rummage sale - we have to make room in their garage for our Rav4. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1468276743363-14LQXPOCTFQS64817JCH/IMG_0003.JPG Blog - This shit is getting real Liam will be close to sitting up by the time we get back - I sure am going to miss these guys. http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/7/6/call-me-crazy-but monthly 0.5 2016-07-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1467822073027-ZQ8N5MV4MI3N5B7UN1DL/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Call me crazy, but... It's called a sabbatical people https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1467822248016-T500AAVF1V4AV28XYLFG/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Call me crazy, but... Things are looking up for the UK portion of our trip http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/7/6/what-are-friends-for monthly 0.5 2016-07-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1467818362763-PBN9NU31OAE9BTACEN4N/image-asset.jpeg Blog - What are friends for? We brought our bed, TV and about 20 bins - yes, we are living out of bins. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1467818492858-TLY92D93STEF55467Z8L/IMG_3839.JPG Blog - What are friends for? Monique's office - this is where all the magic happens. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1467818852040-ZAFHFQVLG9DM41C3TKET/IMG_3837.JPG Blog - What are friends for? Super Deluxe http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/blog/2016/6/29/europe-2016 monthly 0.5 2016-07-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1467817871891-RGY2I2TNBVUQTB0RFQPL/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The trip before the trip. Problem solved - unit 1 of 2 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5773f6d1d1758ec815f7fc05/1467817965301-UFO01TFXGHGF4X7LKKCX/IMG_3759.JPG Blog - The trip before the trip. Unit 2 of 2 - I hope we can fit our bed and the rest of our stuff in here http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/contact daily 0.75 2016-07-06 http://www.fearandcommonsense.com/archive-foundry daily 0.75 2025-05-09