View 2011 - Europe - Christmas in a larger map
Showing posts with label Germany. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Germany. Show all posts
Sunday, January 15, 2012
Friday, January 13, 2012
Day 35 - DE
Cookie says...
As they say, all good things must come to an end. We should have been on a flight out of Frankfurt tonight. We'll be heading home via Singapore and Sydney.
Happy Birthday Megan!
As they say, all good things must come to an end. We should have been on a flight out of Frankfurt tonight. We'll be heading home via Singapore and Sydney.
Happy Birthday Megan!
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Day 34 - DE
Cookie says...
Tonight we should have stayed in Stuttgart, I shall update this post as soon as possible.
Tonight we should have stayed in Stuttgart, I shall update this post as soon as possible.
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Day 33 - DE
Cookie says...
So much for a cruisy stay in Freiburg. Today we stepped back into France to visit Strasburg. We walked about Petite France, some of the old town and were gobsmacked by the size of the munster there. After lunch we autobahned it back to Freiburg.
The plan had to be to get to another town as we were after a Black Forest clock but time was short so we strolled around Freiburg and found one there instead. You need to be careful when walking the place as there's mini canals along side all the kerbs which were installed centuries ago to assist with fighting fires. If they existing in Australia, they'd by painted yellow with railings all around them.
We spoiled ourselves for dinner tonight by eating at a joint that the Michelin Man recommends. I know why he's the shape of Mark 'Tubby' Taylor with a few too many spare tires. The wine was matched to the food, it was seriously good tucker (including several things I've never eaten before), we had a plethora of cutlery to use incorrectly and several people seeing to our needs. It was pretty clear we were eating with people from a few classes above us but it was fantastic.
Home time where we packed to for the final leg of the trip.
Julie says...
After finding out there was a Michelin Star restaurant in Freibug, we decided it would be a nice ending to our trip, and worth the money we'd saved sharing bedrooms with snoring friends and eating ham sandwhiches from bakeries in France.
So, here is a description of how our evening went, as Cookie's knowledge of fine dining etiquette was lacking:
1. Cookie has no real idea what 'Michelin' stars in restaurant circles mean, so he googled it before we left for dinner (I could tell this was going to be a classy night)
3. After 5 mins of staring at the 4 different menus we'd been given each, we went with a 'pre-set' seasonal menu with matching wine, as Cookie's decision-making processes meant we would have been there until midnight trying to decided between the 15 different choices of starters.
4. Cookie tried to tell me you are supposed to eat the bite-sized "pre-hous d'ouvers" hous d'ouvers with cutlery.
5. Cookie came across two different types of cutlery he didn't know existed and didn't know how to use properly
6. Cookie told the waitress (who spoke limited English) that he was about to ask a stupid question, and then proceeded to ask his stupid question about where the 'truffles' were on the plate, to which she replied that they were in there somewhere (because she didn't know what he was asking).
7. Is an 8-course dinner too much? According to Cookie it isn't... but then each portion was 'supermodel on a diet' tiny, so I guess it doesnt' matter.
Overall the dinner was really lovely, and the matched wine was beautiful. I would happily go there again, but I would make Cookie research how to use fancy cutlery first, so that he didn't look so hilarious each time they put a new piece in front of him and he didn't know what to do with it.
So much for a cruisy stay in Freiburg. Today we stepped back into France to visit Strasburg. We walked about Petite France, some of the old town and were gobsmacked by the size of the munster there. After lunch we autobahned it back to Freiburg.
The plan had to be to get to another town as we were after a Black Forest clock but time was short so we strolled around Freiburg and found one there instead. You need to be careful when walking the place as there's mini canals along side all the kerbs which were installed centuries ago to assist with fighting fires. If they existing in Australia, they'd by painted yellow with railings all around them.
We spoiled ourselves for dinner tonight by eating at a joint that the Michelin Man recommends. I know why he's the shape of Mark 'Tubby' Taylor with a few too many spare tires. The wine was matched to the food, it was seriously good tucker (including several things I've never eaten before), we had a plethora of cutlery to use incorrectly and several people seeing to our needs. It was pretty clear we were eating with people from a few classes above us but it was fantastic.
Home time where we packed to for the final leg of the trip.
Julie says...
After finding out there was a Michelin Star restaurant in Freibug, we decided it would be a nice ending to our trip, and worth the money we'd saved sharing bedrooms with snoring friends and eating ham sandwhiches from bakeries in France.
So, here is a description of how our evening went, as Cookie's knowledge of fine dining etiquette was lacking:
1. Cookie has no real idea what 'Michelin' stars in restaurant circles mean, so he googled it before we left for dinner (I could tell this was going to be a classy night)
3. After 5 mins of staring at the 4 different menus we'd been given each, we went with a 'pre-set' seasonal menu with matching wine, as Cookie's decision-making processes meant we would have been there until midnight trying to decided between the 15 different choices of starters.
4. Cookie tried to tell me you are supposed to eat the bite-sized "pre-hous d'ouvers" hous d'ouvers with cutlery.
5. Cookie came across two different types of cutlery he didn't know existed and didn't know how to use properly
6. Cookie told the waitress (who spoke limited English) that he was about to ask a stupid question, and then proceeded to ask his stupid question about where the 'truffles' were on the plate, to which she replied that they were in there somewhere (because she didn't know what he was asking).
7. Is an 8-course dinner too much? According to Cookie it isn't... but then each portion was 'supermodel on a diet' tiny, so I guess it doesnt' matter.
Overall the dinner was really lovely, and the matched wine was beautiful. I would happily go there again, but I would make Cookie research how to use fancy cutlery first, so that he didn't look so hilarious each time they put a new piece in front of him and he didn't know what to do with it.
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Day 32 - DE
Cookie says...
There were a few sights we identified of interest however after driving through some wonderful Black Forest roads in the clouds surrounded by snow laden trees, we discovered that the first two were closed. We're not sure how a waterfall can be closed but it was. Oh well, it's probably a good thing as it helped with time.
The third stop was Burg Hohenzollern, which is a royal castle for the ruling family from Prussia. They weren't horribly original in their names as they only ever used two (Fredrick and William). We ended up on a tour of castle interior with a pair of Kiwi's (have I mentioned that it's hard coping with the numbers during this time of year?) and they were a touch odd. Quite into history and all that and I think Julz is glad that I'm not as into things as much as them.
Bit of a trip home in the dark with a combination of autobahn speeds and tight roads at times (even hairpins). We ended up having pizza (for a trip that didn't hit Italy, we've eaten a lot of pizza) and chocolate mousse from a supermarket which was surprising good.
Julie says...
Driving through snow-laden hills and forests was nice. The scenery over here is brilliant, even if it has been foggy at time and rained a lot. I know it would be beautiful here in summer, but then you'd get crowds of people ruining the peace and quiet.
Again we were off to visit castles... yay. The 217 steps up the hill to the Prussian place was painful, considering the number of layers I am wearing and how unfit I am at the moment :( And why do Prussian royalty need a castle in the Black Forest anyway... I thought we were in Germany? I'll have to go home and google Prussia, as my European history and geography knowledge is severely lacking.
There were a few sights we identified of interest however after driving through some wonderful Black Forest roads in the clouds surrounded by snow laden trees, we discovered that the first two were closed. We're not sure how a waterfall can be closed but it was. Oh well, it's probably a good thing as it helped with time.
The third stop was Burg Hohenzollern, which is a royal castle for the ruling family from Prussia. They weren't horribly original in their names as they only ever used two (Fredrick and William). We ended up on a tour of castle interior with a pair of Kiwi's (have I mentioned that it's hard coping with the numbers during this time of year?) and they were a touch odd. Quite into history and all that and I think Julz is glad that I'm not as into things as much as them.
Bit of a trip home in the dark with a combination of autobahn speeds and tight roads at times (even hairpins). We ended up having pizza (for a trip that didn't hit Italy, we've eaten a lot of pizza) and chocolate mousse from a supermarket which was surprising good.
Julie says...
Driving through snow-laden hills and forests was nice. The scenery over here is brilliant, even if it has been foggy at time and rained a lot. I know it would be beautiful here in summer, but then you'd get crowds of people ruining the peace and quiet.
Again we were off to visit castles... yay. The 217 steps up the hill to the Prussian place was painful, considering the number of layers I am wearing and how unfit I am at the moment :( And why do Prussian royalty need a castle in the Black Forest anyway... I thought we were in Germany? I'll have to go home and google Prussia, as my European history and geography knowledge is severely lacking.
Monday, January 9, 2012
Day 31 - DE
Cookie says...
Pretty simple day today. It was basically all driving. As we left Munich, we wanted to stop by Dachau even though we knew that the concentration camp memorial was closed. We walked around the outside of some of the site and read some of the information boards before getting back on the road. Quite like these autobahns but I'd love to put the Magna through it's paces on them.
Next stop Freiburg. Several hours, a few pitstops and a coupla autobahns with crazy drivers later, we'd arrived in the Black Forest. Once again Julz has picked a place in some obscure location (this is dragging up memories of our stay "in" Salzburg) however it could be another winner. We managed to check in but tried and failed at finding a laundry, had dinner and headed back to the B&B.
Julie says...
Today Cookie got to 'legally' drive at 160kms per hour down the autobahn. He looked quite pleased with himself, even if we were overtaken by every Audi, Mercedes and BMW driver (some must have been doing at least 180kms). I'm suprised our tiny Opel Corsa (similar to a four-door Holden Barina) didn't fall apart at that speed.
And yes, I have managed to book us into a B&B in the middle of absolutely nowhere... again... But as per the 'Salzburg' experience of 2008, the place is an absolute gem, the hosts are lovely, the views are spectacular, and it is definately worth the 20mins drive from town. Cookie, you should just learn to trust my instincts when it comes to booking accommodation!
Pretty simple day today. It was basically all driving. As we left Munich, we wanted to stop by Dachau even though we knew that the concentration camp memorial was closed. We walked around the outside of some of the site and read some of the information boards before getting back on the road. Quite like these autobahns but I'd love to put the Magna through it's paces on them.
Next stop Freiburg. Several hours, a few pitstops and a coupla autobahns with crazy drivers later, we'd arrived in the Black Forest. Once again Julz has picked a place in some obscure location (this is dragging up memories of our stay "in" Salzburg) however it could be another winner. We managed to check in but tried and failed at finding a laundry, had dinner and headed back to the B&B.
Julie says...
Today Cookie got to 'legally' drive at 160kms per hour down the autobahn. He looked quite pleased with himself, even if we were overtaken by every Audi, Mercedes and BMW driver (some must have been doing at least 180kms). I'm suprised our tiny Opel Corsa (similar to a four-door Holden Barina) didn't fall apart at that speed.
And yes, I have managed to book us into a B&B in the middle of absolutely nowhere... again... But as per the 'Salzburg' experience of 2008, the place is an absolute gem, the hosts are lovely, the views are spectacular, and it is definately worth the 20mins drive from town. Cookie, you should just learn to trust my instincts when it comes to booking accommodation!
Sunday, January 8, 2012
Day 30 - DE
Cookie says...
Gavin took us on a walking tour around Munich. We managed to bump into Rachel Smith of AECOM fame who has been involved with a cycle program over here.
We gave mulled wine another chance (we really aren't fans) and then went to another beer house for lunch. Afterwards we walked through the Munich Residence (where the Bavarian royal family lived) for an hour or so (it's not exactly small).
We found a cafe, bludged back at our place and then dropped them off at the airport to head back to England.
Julie says...
The carillon at the "new" town hall was underwhelming but the antiquarium in the Residences is worth a look. However, my highlight for the day was seeing blue sky at 4.30pm, even if it was devoured by nightfall 30 mins later.
Gavin took us on a walking tour around Munich. We managed to bump into Rachel Smith of AECOM fame who has been involved with a cycle program over here.
We gave mulled wine another chance (we really aren't fans) and then went to another beer house for lunch. Afterwards we walked through the Munich Residence (where the Bavarian royal family lived) for an hour or so (it's not exactly small).
We found a cafe, bludged back at our place and then dropped them off at the airport to head back to England.
Julie says...
The carillon at the "new" town hall was underwhelming but the antiquarium in the Residences is worth a look. However, my highlight for the day was seeing blue sky at 4.30pm, even if it was devoured by nightfall 30 mins later.
Saturday, January 7, 2012
Day 29 - DE
Cookie says...
On the way out of Zurich we made a pilgrimage to FIFA headquarters. I couldn't help but notice some brown paper bags lying around the place...
We had some horrible weather to drive through first before returning to Germany. We met up with Gavin an Oksana at Neuschwanstein Castle and had a look through it. I once heard an American tourist saying that Germany had their own Disney castle but we didn't hear any dumb comments like that today. The ironic thing with this castle is that the king had it built to be an authentic medieval castle yet he knocked down a medieval castle to build this fake castle.
Munich was where we were staying for the next two nights and after checking in, we went in search of dinner and finished the night in the Hofbräuhaus drinking beer and eating German roast meat.
Julie says...
Today we drove through a blizzard, visited a pretty castle on a hill, broke the law, had a snowball fight and drank beer in a royal brewery.
Gavin says...
Hi.
Oksana says...
Петр странно, он любит Bon Jovi.
On the way out of Zurich we made a pilgrimage to FIFA headquarters. I couldn't help but notice some brown paper bags lying around the place...
We had some horrible weather to drive through first before returning to Germany. We met up with Gavin an Oksana at Neuschwanstein Castle and had a look through it. I once heard an American tourist saying that Germany had their own Disney castle but we didn't hear any dumb comments like that today. The ironic thing with this castle is that the king had it built to be an authentic medieval castle yet he knocked down a medieval castle to build this fake castle.
Munich was where we were staying for the next two nights and after checking in, we went in search of dinner and finished the night in the Hofbräuhaus drinking beer and eating German roast meat.
Julie says...
Today we drove through a blizzard, visited a pretty castle on a hill, broke the law, had a snowball fight and drank beer in a royal brewery.
Gavin says...
Hi.
Oksana says...
Петр странно, он любит Bon Jovi.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Day 5 - FR
Cookie says...
Today was to be cruiser than the last two days. The only place we wanted to check out was Miniatur Wunderland. It's a miniature train enthusiast's heaven and it's an incredible place. Luckily for us, we virtually had it to ourselves for about half an hour but it didn't take long to fill up. I think we were there for two and a half hours but it could easily have been a day long excursion.
The rain was back, and so we used that as an excuse to visit the Christmas Markets again to replace our broken umbrella. After having some more traditional food and hot chocolate, we went shopping. I picked up a new Germany jersey and Julz went looking for shoes and a shirt for Friday night's outing. I have to say (from a male perspective) shopping is shopping no matter where you are, and women around the world act the same around those sale tables. I did however use it to rest the feet.
We burnt a few hours while waiting to board an overnight train to Paris.
Time to go see how the French do Christmas!
Julie says...
Don't tell Cookie this... but Miniatur Wunderland is very cool. All those trains, scenes, people and lights are pretty incredible. Unfortunately, now comes the issue of Cookie being inspired and wanting a train set of his own... looks like there will have to be both a Lego room and a miniature train room in our house... yay...
As for shopping over here, it's just the same as shopping back home - trawling through shelves to find something that fits. I thought I'd find it easy to buy a pair of boots here, considering the climate. But I seem to have the same problem in every shoe store... big feet. I eventually found a pair that will work.
I am looking forward to the overnight train. Although we probably wont get too much sleep, I think it will be a relaxing way to travel to France.
Today was to be cruiser than the last two days. The only place we wanted to check out was Miniatur Wunderland. It's a miniature train enthusiast's heaven and it's an incredible place. Luckily for us, we virtually had it to ourselves for about half an hour but it didn't take long to fill up. I think we were there for two and a half hours but it could easily have been a day long excursion.
The rain was back, and so we used that as an excuse to visit the Christmas Markets again to replace our broken umbrella. After having some more traditional food and hot chocolate, we went shopping. I picked up a new Germany jersey and Julz went looking for shoes and a shirt for Friday night's outing. I have to say (from a male perspective) shopping is shopping no matter where you are, and women around the world act the same around those sale tables. I did however use it to rest the feet.
We burnt a few hours while waiting to board an overnight train to Paris.
Time to go see how the French do Christmas!
Julie says...
Don't tell Cookie this... but Miniatur Wunderland is very cool. All those trains, scenes, people and lights are pretty incredible. Unfortunately, now comes the issue of Cookie being inspired and wanting a train set of his own... looks like there will have to be both a Lego room and a miniature train room in our house... yay...
As for shopping over here, it's just the same as shopping back home - trawling through shelves to find something that fits. I thought I'd find it easy to buy a pair of boots here, considering the climate. But I seem to have the same problem in every shoe store... big feet. I eventually found a pair that will work.
I am looking forward to the overnight train. Although we probably wont get too much sleep, I think it will be a relaxing way to travel to France.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Day 4 - DE
Cookie says...
Sadly we only had one full day in Berlin. There's soo much more that we'd love to go see and the city is wonderful. U-Bahn in peak hour with backpacks was fun but it worked. Yesterday we asked about reserving seats and were told that it wouldn't be busy but when we hopped on, first class was full. We scored free hot drinks from the first class assistant who tried to help us and then we were off to Hamburg.
Our accom was right across from the station and luckily a room was ready even though we were really early. Time to explore. We ducked into some shops (Julie found a three story shoe shop and was in heaven) and ended up in another Christmas market. These ones were amazing and there's several dotted around the CBD.
Anton (of Maunsell fame) highly recommended the Maritime Museum so we had a look. Anne, I have to warn you that if you and John ever make it to Germany, John could spend a week in this museum. It's a first class museum and has nine floors.
I think Julie is lucky that only the main text is in English so I couldn't read everything. The models on display are truly incredible. Not only are there typical models, there's ones made from wood, plastic, gold, silver, paper, bone, amber and even one with Lego.
We finally managed to find a German restaurant for dinner and it was good. Looking forward to tomorrow - Miniatur Wonderland here we come!
Julie says...
I like Hamburg. The place has a warm feal too it, even though it is only 5 degrees outside. The Christmas markets are great, and all the tradiational German food they sell is fantastic. I could certainly spend a lot of money here buying way too many Christmas decorations.
The Germans sure know how to do a museum. I thought the Jewish one in Berlin was over-done with information but the Maritime museum was incredible. The size and scale of the model ships was unbelievable!
Sadly we only had one full day in Berlin. There's soo much more that we'd love to go see and the city is wonderful. U-Bahn in peak hour with backpacks was fun but it worked. Yesterday we asked about reserving seats and were told that it wouldn't be busy but when we hopped on, first class was full. We scored free hot drinks from the first class assistant who tried to help us and then we were off to Hamburg.
Our accom was right across from the station and luckily a room was ready even though we were really early. Time to explore. We ducked into some shops (Julie found a three story shoe shop and was in heaven) and ended up in another Christmas market. These ones were amazing and there's several dotted around the CBD.
Anton (of Maunsell fame) highly recommended the Maritime Museum so we had a look. Anne, I have to warn you that if you and John ever make it to Germany, John could spend a week in this museum. It's a first class museum and has nine floors.
I think Julie is lucky that only the main text is in English so I couldn't read everything. The models on display are truly incredible. Not only are there typical models, there's ones made from wood, plastic, gold, silver, paper, bone, amber and even one with Lego.
We finally managed to find a German restaurant for dinner and it was good. Looking forward to tomorrow - Miniatur Wonderland here we come!
Julie says...
I like Hamburg. The place has a warm feal too it, even though it is only 5 degrees outside. The Christmas markets are great, and all the tradiational German food they sell is fantastic. I could certainly spend a lot of money here buying way too many Christmas decorations.
The Germans sure know how to do a museum. I thought the Jewish one in Berlin was over-done with information but the Maritime museum was incredible. The size and scale of the model ships was unbelievable!
Monday, December 12, 2011
Day 3 - DE
Cookie says...
First day out and about and time to tick off some of the sights. This included the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag, the Holocaust Memorial, the Jewish Museum and the Berlin Wall.
After lunch we found a museum with ancient Greek and Roman statues and artifacts.
I've also been having some success with my year eight German language skillz. Lunch was good however I don't understand the preoccupation with carbonated water - it's horrible stuff. The bread however is awesome. German bread is zee best!
We've now started our love affair with Christmas Markets. As we're travelling, there's very little that they offer that we could easily take home however if we lived here, I'm sure there's plenty of traditional stuff that we'd love to get. They're a thousand times better than any typical market we have at home.
Julie says...
"Success with his year 8 German language skills...?" Is that what he calls it? The Germans have no idea what he is saying... and I don't think speaking English whilst pretending to have a thick German accent counts as "German language skillz"...
First day out and about and time to tick off some of the sights. This included the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag, the Holocaust Memorial, the Jewish Museum and the Berlin Wall.
After lunch we found a museum with ancient Greek and Roman statues and artifacts.
I've also been having some success with my year eight German language skillz. Lunch was good however I don't understand the preoccupation with carbonated water - it's horrible stuff. The bread however is awesome. German bread is zee best!
We've now started our love affair with Christmas Markets. As we're travelling, there's very little that they offer that we could easily take home however if we lived here, I'm sure there's plenty of traditional stuff that we'd love to get. They're a thousand times better than any typical market we have at home.
Julie says...
"Success with his year 8 German language skills...?" Is that what he calls it? The Germans have no idea what he is saying... and I don't think speaking English whilst pretending to have a thick German accent counts as "German language skillz"...
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Day 2 - DE
Cookie says...
Frankfurt - the business hub of Germany where it was sub zero and people smoke to keep warm. Fortunately our luggage made it so we were off to catch our first train. After a few faux pas (or whatever the German word is), we had trained it to Hannover and then to Berlin. Now even though we missed the train that we wanted, due to a ripple in the space time continuum we managed to make it to Berlin faster than if we had caught our original train (even though it involved a change of trains and a longer distance) - thank you German precision.
Berlin, the last time I was here it was probably in a flight simulator. How the place has changed! We sorted out how to get to our accom (well, Julz did - I watched the bags while listening to some protesters singling like the Barmey Army). After checking in. showers were in order in an attempt to feel human again and then dinner. Oddly enough, we struggled to find some German food. There was Thai, Yum Cha, Korean, Indian, French, Italian, Greek, Turkish and Mexikanisch.
Well, fed and exhausted, we hit the hay a few hours after sundown, so that means it was probably about lunch time.
Julie says...
I love German trains. The speed, comfort and silence is just brilliant - nothing like the over-crowded, smoke-filled, noisy trains in Italy (I'll be forever blaming Brooke for that experience). The trip to Berlin started a little hectically but we got there in the end.
The weather is nice and sunny, but I'd fogotten how cold it can be even with four layers on. The mushroom soup at dinner was the higlight of the meal, and just what we needed after a very long day of eating tiny meals from our laps in cramped confines. Daylight, I will miss you... (sunrise at 8am and sunset at 4pm is going to get a little depressing).
Frankfurt - the business hub of Germany where it was sub zero and people smoke to keep warm. Fortunately our luggage made it so we were off to catch our first train. After a few faux pas (or whatever the German word is), we had trained it to Hannover and then to Berlin. Now even though we missed the train that we wanted, due to a ripple in the space time continuum we managed to make it to Berlin faster than if we had caught our original train (even though it involved a change of trains and a longer distance) - thank you German precision.
Berlin, the last time I was here it was probably in a flight simulator. How the place has changed! We sorted out how to get to our accom (well, Julz did - I watched the bags while listening to some protesters singling like the Barmey Army). After checking in. showers were in order in an attempt to feel human again and then dinner. Oddly enough, we struggled to find some German food. There was Thai, Yum Cha, Korean, Indian, French, Italian, Greek, Turkish and Mexikanisch.
Well, fed and exhausted, we hit the hay a few hours after sundown, so that means it was probably about lunch time.
Julie says...
I love German trains. The speed, comfort and silence is just brilliant - nothing like the over-crowded, smoke-filled, noisy trains in Italy (I'll be forever blaming Brooke for that experience). The trip to Berlin started a little hectically but we got there in the end.
The weather is nice and sunny, but I'd fogotten how cold it can be even with four layers on. The mushroom soup at dinner was the higlight of the meal, and just what we needed after a very long day of eating tiny meals from our laps in cramped confines. Daylight, I will miss you... (sunrise at 8am and sunset at 4pm is going to get a little depressing).
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Day 1 - DE
Cookie says...
I've decided that anyone who doesn't believe zombies exist hasn't flown enough long haul flights in cattle class. The flights went well except that we were late out of Sydney and Singapore. This meant missing connections in Frankfurt for some passengers and an announcement when leaving Singapore that they had removed 1.5 tonnes of gear due to a miscalculation with the fuel load. I'm glad they figured that out when we were on the ground and not 15% from our destination. However, that left us wondering if our luggage was still with us.
We also overcame the quirks of ticketing as on the two long flights, we hadn't been seated together. As for the food, it was alright. In fact, I quite enjoyed the meat filled Vol au Vents we scored on the way to Sydney.
Julie says...
As a child, I always imagined flying around the globe to be one of the most exciting ways to travel. I was always envied my aunts, who seemed to fly everywhere for work. However, after my seventh long-haul flight in five years, the novelty has definately warn off. Flying is just nasty. It's time consuming, uncomfortable, and downright unexciting. Don't believe the ads that make the experience look like the highlight of your travels - they lie!
As for flying lang-haul with Qantas, I was impressed. The food was quite good, the entertainment had a good selection of movies and the staff were very friendly. Make sure you have the hot chocolate the offer as 'supper', it's great. As for Cookie's 'meat filled Vol au Vents', the man needs to get over his obsession with eating pies...
I've decided that anyone who doesn't believe zombies exist hasn't flown enough long haul flights in cattle class. The flights went well except that we were late out of Sydney and Singapore. This meant missing connections in Frankfurt for some passengers and an announcement when leaving Singapore that they had removed 1.5 tonnes of gear due to a miscalculation with the fuel load. I'm glad they figured that out when we were on the ground and not 15% from our destination. However, that left us wondering if our luggage was still with us.
We also overcame the quirks of ticketing as on the two long flights, we hadn't been seated together. As for the food, it was alright. In fact, I quite enjoyed the meat filled Vol au Vents we scored on the way to Sydney.
Julie says...
As a child, I always imagined flying around the globe to be one of the most exciting ways to travel. I was always envied my aunts, who seemed to fly everywhere for work. However, after my seventh long-haul flight in five years, the novelty has definately warn off. Flying is just nasty. It's time consuming, uncomfortable, and downright unexciting. Don't believe the ads that make the experience look like the highlight of your travels - they lie!
As for flying lang-haul with Qantas, I was impressed. The food was quite good, the entertainment had a good selection of movies and the staff were very friendly. Make sure you have the hot chocolate the offer as 'supper', it's great. As for Cookie's 'meat filled Vol au Vents', the man needs to get over his obsession with eating pies...
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Day 38 - DE
Cookie says...
Once again Adam was up before us and with breaky done, we were outa there. Decided to find some botanical gardens which we walked around for a bit. Just before we left we descended upon a playground and had some fun with some of those seat see-saw's for a bit of mindless fun in the morning. Thought we'd try some tough laps for a bit and take in what the city looks like and then after dropping the car off, we headed for some lunch. We wanted to find a typical German pub or beerhaus however all we could manage was a cafe. Wasn't the smartest of moves as we bussed it there and hoofed it back at a great rate of knots to try and make the next bus to the airport. And that was a no. So we sat in the railway station for a bit and then we bailed.
Trip to the airport was quite a way however this time we could see the country side. Offloaded ourselves, checked in and sat around waiting with a few hot chocolates. I picked up some chocolate duty free too. We boarded our plane and as this airport probably wasn't the biggest and busiest around, the pilot was able to taxi and leave in one swoop and just to show he was either good, tough or a bit of a cowboy, he'd actually gunned it while half way around the corner coming onto the main drag. The landing at the other end was a bit sudden too. I think the gound snuck up on them but we hit hard and stuck.
Exited, boarder control came and went and then found the baggage and high tailed it for the expres train to Liverpool Street Station. Initially I'd planned on staying at Sarah's however as Julie was sick and it was dark, I decided I'd see her home instead. Turned out there was a bit of track work going on so we had to offload prior to Liverpool and then tube it to intercept the C2C service that left Fenchurch St.
Arrived at Chafford Hundred, picked up some Chinese for dinner I had a bit of a chat with the other housemates of Julie's and then called it a night.
Once again Adam was up before us and with breaky done, we were outa there. Decided to find some botanical gardens which we walked around for a bit. Just before we left we descended upon a playground and had some fun with some of those seat see-saw's for a bit of mindless fun in the morning. Thought we'd try some tough laps for a bit and take in what the city looks like and then after dropping the car off, we headed for some lunch. We wanted to find a typical German pub or beerhaus however all we could manage was a cafe. Wasn't the smartest of moves as we bussed it there and hoofed it back at a great rate of knots to try and make the next bus to the airport. And that was a no. So we sat in the railway station for a bit and then we bailed.
Trip to the airport was quite a way however this time we could see the country side. Offloaded ourselves, checked in and sat around waiting with a few hot chocolates. I picked up some chocolate duty free too. We boarded our plane and as this airport probably wasn't the biggest and busiest around, the pilot was able to taxi and leave in one swoop and just to show he was either good, tough or a bit of a cowboy, he'd actually gunned it while half way around the corner coming onto the main drag. The landing at the other end was a bit sudden too. I think the gound snuck up on them but we hit hard and stuck.
Exited, boarder control came and went and then found the baggage and high tailed it for the expres train to Liverpool Street Station. Initially I'd planned on staying at Sarah's however as Julie was sick and it was dark, I decided I'd see her home instead. Turned out there was a bit of track work going on so we had to offload prior to Liverpool and then tube it to intercept the C2C service that left Fenchurch St.
Arrived at Chafford Hundred, picked up some Chinese for dinner I had a bit of a chat with the other housemates of Julie's and then called it a night.
Saturday, March 1, 2008
Day 37 - DE
Cookie says...
Adam managed to beat us to the breakfast table but we soon caught up with him. We decided to walk to the station and get some info and work out what to do from there. It was a short stroll away and after renting a car, we made a B line for Heidelberg. This meant one thing: autobahn! I don't remember what car we had but it did alright although we were still were overtaken by other people at silly speeds.
An hour later and we were in Heidelberg. One of Heidleberg's claims to fame is that the oldest evidence of human life in Europe was found near here. I think Sarah maintains that I'm his twin brother. We made our way to the castle that overlooks the town and stopped for lunch. The food was okay and afterwards we briefly strolled around the outside of the castle. It was quite windy so we descended into the town to check out a few bits and pieces. They had some souviner places there and I really wanted some steins however I didn't have enough Euro's and it seemed that my Visa card wasn't accepted around the traps.
Julz had been unwell through the arvo so after checking out the bridge, we jumped back into the car and onto the autobahn and motored back to Frankers. We were lucky to find ourselves a park close to the hotel and after getting ready for dinner, we walked over the river and down to an area known for more traditional places to eat. The place we wanted to get into was packed and only had room in the smoking section which we weren't keen on. Seems over here a smoking section isn't filled by a group of people who might have one or two smokers but the whole group smoked - no thanks!
There was another place a few doors up the street so we went there instead. The locals seems to like some apple wine concoction so we tried it. The guide book said that non-locals typically water it down as they can't handle it but we didn't and couldn't work out what the fuss was as it seemed no different to cider which our resident cider expert (Julie) proceeded to get stuck into it. Three of us had snitzel as it was the closest thing to a German meal on the menu and Sarah had some pasta. The snitzels were huge and came out as pairs resulting in me having to be rolled back to the hotel. But first Julie and Adam had some whisky and Sarah and I had an orange and vodka. That's right, not a vodka and orange, an orange and vodka because we maintain that there was more vodka than orange in the glass and you could have run a top fueler with it.
After getting back to the hotel, Sarah and Julie had developed a craving for chocolate. I wasn't too keen on heading out again however I kinda felt like some chocolate milk. So what I thought would be a quick trip to the corner store turned into an experience of being man handled by three strippers trying to drag me into three of their clubs. The hotel we booked (looks at Julie) was on the edge of the redlight district. I wasn't to concerned by that because in Brisbane you walk past strip joints and the person outside might say hi and ask if you want to come in. They don't operate like that here. I couldn't believe how hard they tried to get me in there. One guy even tried the ploy that I'd dropped something after I'd walked away from them. I hope the girls appreciate what I did for them because I felt dirty and wanted a shower when I got back.
Cookie points out...
There was nothing wrong with my directions, they were technically correct given the information at hand however the Blackberry's GPS wasn't the quickest device I've used to navigate and was lagging quite a bit.
Sarah's theory was only part right. I didn't have any issues with getting something from here, I was trying a theory of mine that if she only asked one or twice, she would give up.
And Julie did want chocolate... at least she might not have had the urge to have some initially however she loves M&M's and wouldn't turn down the opportunity for some as it's quite difficult to find the plain ones in London. Upon leaving Frankfurt, I bought two large bags of them so she wouldn't go without. Sorry mum, that's why I didn't have an infernal tea towel from Frankfurt / Heidleberg.
Julie always seems thinking about something...
Adam managed to beat us to the breakfast table but we soon caught up with him. We decided to walk to the station and get some info and work out what to do from there. It was a short stroll away and after renting a car, we made a B line for Heidelberg. This meant one thing: autobahn! I don't remember what car we had but it did alright although we were still were overtaken by other people at silly speeds.
An hour later and we were in Heidelberg. One of Heidleberg's claims to fame is that the oldest evidence of human life in Europe was found near here. I think Sarah maintains that I'm his twin brother. We made our way to the castle that overlooks the town and stopped for lunch. The food was okay and afterwards we briefly strolled around the outside of the castle. It was quite windy so we descended into the town to check out a few bits and pieces. They had some souviner places there and I really wanted some steins however I didn't have enough Euro's and it seemed that my Visa card wasn't accepted around the traps.
Spotted some tourists in a carpark
Julie, Sarah and I
We walked around the outside of the castle... literally
Heidelberg
Julz had been unwell through the arvo so after checking out the bridge, we jumped back into the car and onto the autobahn and motored back to Frankers. We were lucky to find ourselves a park close to the hotel and after getting ready for dinner, we walked over the river and down to an area known for more traditional places to eat. The place we wanted to get into was packed and only had room in the smoking section which we weren't keen on. Seems over here a smoking section isn't filled by a group of people who might have one or two smokers but the whole group smoked - no thanks!
There was another place a few doors up the street so we went there instead. The locals seems to like some apple wine concoction so we tried it. The guide book said that non-locals typically water it down as they can't handle it but we didn't and couldn't work out what the fuss was as it seemed no different to cider which our resident cider expert (Julie) proceeded to get stuck into it. Three of us had snitzel as it was the closest thing to a German meal on the menu and Sarah had some pasta. The snitzels were huge and came out as pairs resulting in me having to be rolled back to the hotel. But first Julie and Adam had some whisky and Sarah and I had an orange and vodka. That's right, not a vodka and orange, an orange and vodka because we maintain that there was more vodka than orange in the glass and you could have run a top fueler with it.
Not sure if Adam is squirming at the size of the meal
or the size of the jug
After getting back to the hotel, Sarah and Julie had developed a craving for chocolate. I wasn't too keen on heading out again however I kinda felt like some chocolate milk. So what I thought would be a quick trip to the corner store turned into an experience of being man handled by three strippers trying to drag me into three of their clubs. The hotel we booked (looks at Julie) was on the edge of the redlight district. I wasn't to concerned by that because in Brisbane you walk past strip joints and the person outside might say hi and ask if you want to come in. They don't operate like that here. I couldn't believe how hard they tried to get me in there. One guy even tried the ploy that I'd dropped something after I'd walked away from them. I hope the girls appreciate what I did for them because I felt dirty and wanted a shower when I got back.
Cookie points out...
There was nothing wrong with my directions, they were technically correct given the information at hand however the Blackberry's GPS wasn't the quickest device I've used to navigate and was lagging quite a bit.
Sarah's theory was only part right. I didn't have any issues with getting something from here, I was trying a theory of mine that if she only asked one or twice, she would give up.
And Julie did want chocolate... at least she might not have had the urge to have some initially however she loves M&M's and wouldn't turn down the opportunity for some as it's quite difficult to find the plain ones in London. Upon leaving Frankfurt, I bought two large bags of them so she wouldn't go without. Sorry mum, that's why I didn't have an infernal tea towel from Frankfurt / Heidleberg.
Julie always seems thinking about something...
Friday, February 29, 2008
Day 36 - ENG
Cookie says...
Continued being the tourist today and headed to Lords. The tour is more about the Marylbourne Cricket Club however this is where they house The Ashes and stacks of other historical cricket items like two stump wickets and curved bats. The tour included rooms like The Pavilion, home change rooms, the stand and the media centre. It was interesting to note that the MCC is the governing body of the laws of cricket, not the ICC.
I'm definately listening to some 12th Man when I get home.
Once that was over I headed into town to meet Julie. The two of us were heading to Frankfurt with Sarah and one of her work colleagues for the weekend and we had to get to Stansted early to change the name on the ticket from Gavin to him. Everything went smoothly until we actually flew. It was the roughest flight I've ever been on. We had a hefty tailwind which although delayed it's arrival in London, made for a quick flight to 'Frankers' which in itself was like flying to Sydney - no sooner have you reached altitude and then you're descending to land.
For the last half of the flight it was a bit rough but there were a couple of moments where the plane dropped suddenly resulting a chorus of screams from half the cabin, especially the American school group that was parked around us. The second we landed the cabin was full of clapping although Julie rightly pointed out that clapping should be held until we've actually stopped moving because anything can still happen... has anyone seen that footage from Hamburg? Check this out! That wasn't us but the same day in the same country.
We experienced something else at the airport. Our only piece of checked in luggage had arrived and been collected by Julz and I before Sarah had passed through border control and it was in her name - I don't think this has ever happened in the history of commercial flights. After what we thought was a quick start to the trip we were then let down by the bus which just sat there for half an hour before we left. I think the driver was more interested in eating frankfurts instead of actually driving us to Frankfurt (because in true RyanAir tradition, we've landed 1.45hrs outside of Frankfurt). The bus ride was uneventful and we mostly dozed but when we got off, we had to hoof it several blocks in light rain to find our hotel which looked like it was closed but thankfully was not.
Checked in, showered and slept as it was after 1 in the morning.
Julz says...
It seems that every trip I take with Cookie, I am meeting him at a random train station straight from work. This trip was no different. After leaving work early (sshh, don't tell!), we met at Fenchurch Street Station and headed to Stansted early to change the flight details in typical RyanAir style (must be done in person - no-one would answer the phone and negative on internet check-in). That all done, we headed to the pub inside the airport (as all good English airports have), and I drank cidar whilst watching the highlights of the Aussies being beaten by the Indians at cricket! How disgraceful!
As was mentioned, the flight wasn't the greatest, but I had complete trust in the pilot and ground-crew, and figured that if they didn't know what they were doing, there wasn't a great deal that screaming would do about it. (It seems that Cookie is a nervous flyer, for any of you who need blackmail info for future reference.) Once off the plane, the charming 2hr trip on the bus at some stupid hour of the night meant that Cookie yet again got to fall asleep on public transport - I'm beginning to wonder if I am really that conservationally boring...
Thanks to Adam, his trusty BlackBerry and Google maps, we found the hotel with relative ease in the rain and all headed to bed.
Continued being the tourist today and headed to Lords. The tour is more about the Marylbourne Cricket Club however this is where they house The Ashes and stacks of other historical cricket items like two stump wickets and curved bats. The tour included rooms like The Pavilion, home change rooms, the stand and the media centre. It was interesting to note that the MCC is the governing body of the laws of cricket, not the ICC.
He's got him... yes!
I'm definately listening to some 12th Man when I get home.
Once that was over I headed into town to meet Julie. The two of us were heading to Frankfurt with Sarah and one of her work colleagues for the weekend and we had to get to Stansted early to change the name on the ticket from Gavin to him. Everything went smoothly until we actually flew. It was the roughest flight I've ever been on. We had a hefty tailwind which although delayed it's arrival in London, made for a quick flight to 'Frankers' which in itself was like flying to Sydney - no sooner have you reached altitude and then you're descending to land.
For the last half of the flight it was a bit rough but there were a couple of moments where the plane dropped suddenly resulting a chorus of screams from half the cabin, especially the American school group that was parked around us. The second we landed the cabin was full of clapping although Julie rightly pointed out that clapping should be held until we've actually stopped moving because anything can still happen... has anyone seen that footage from Hamburg? Check this out! That wasn't us but the same day in the same country.
We experienced something else at the airport. Our only piece of checked in luggage had arrived and been collected by Julz and I before Sarah had passed through border control and it was in her name - I don't think this has ever happened in the history of commercial flights. After what we thought was a quick start to the trip we were then let down by the bus which just sat there for half an hour before we left. I think the driver was more interested in eating frankfurts instead of actually driving us to Frankfurt (because in true RyanAir tradition, we've landed 1.45hrs outside of Frankfurt). The bus ride was uneventful and we mostly dozed but when we got off, we had to hoof it several blocks in light rain to find our hotel which looked like it was closed but thankfully was not.
Checked in, showered and slept as it was after 1 in the morning.
Julz says...
It seems that every trip I take with Cookie, I am meeting him at a random train station straight from work. This trip was no different. After leaving work early (sshh, don't tell!), we met at Fenchurch Street Station and headed to Stansted early to change the flight details in typical RyanAir style (must be done in person - no-one would answer the phone and negative on internet check-in). That all done, we headed to the pub inside the airport (as all good English airports have), and I drank cidar whilst watching the highlights of the Aussies being beaten by the Indians at cricket! How disgraceful!
As was mentioned, the flight wasn't the greatest, but I had complete trust in the pilot and ground-crew, and figured that if they didn't know what they were doing, there wasn't a great deal that screaming would do about it. (It seems that Cookie is a nervous flyer, for any of you who need blackmail info for future reference.) Once off the plane, the charming 2hr trip on the bus at some stupid hour of the night meant that Cookie yet again got to fall asleep on public transport - I'm beginning to wonder if I am really that conservationally boring...
Thanks to Adam, his trusty BlackBerry and Google maps, we found the hotel with relative ease in the rain and all headed to bed.
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