Day #206 - Strasbourg, France

Cathedral of Notre Dame - Strasbourg

Strasbourg

Strasbourg

Musee D'nterlinden

Musee D'Unterlinden

Wednesday, October 6th

Happy Birthday to Heather today! Wish I could be in Bloomsdale to salute with a toast. Here's to a great year!!!

Today I did another day trip - but this time it was more reasonable. I took the train first to the city of Colmar, France. It's an interesting little town. Neat streets. People were out everywhere.

One of the highlights of the town is the Musee D'Unterlinden. It's a museum based on religious art. I went ahead and paid the 7 euro to tour the place. Really interesting. The most famous work in this 13th century convent is an immense altar - the Issenheim Altarpiece. This was created between 1512-1516 and it believed to have miraculous healing powers.

I walked the streets for a little while - but then took a train to Strasbourg, France. This city is worth visiting - especially in the fall. It has this river running through the town with trees lining each side. The leaves were just about at perfect autumn color. See picture. There were tons of shopping streets with tourists and locals alike. Very nice atmosphere.

One of the calling cards of Strasbourg is the Cathedral of Notre Dame. This place was amazing. You could walk in for a free tour. It definitely reminded me of Notre Dame in Paris. The inside configuration is nearly identical. Construction of this cathedral began in the 12th century and was completed in 1439. It stands 466-ft tall - making it one of the tallest buildings in the Christian world. The place towers over the town.

Caught the next train and headed back to Baden-Baden. I'm just finishing up here as the clock is striking midnight. Tomorrow is a 'special day'. I've specifically waited until tomorow to take in some of the sites in Baden-Baden proper.

Until then - keep the faith.

Day #205 - Luxembourg - France - Switzerland - Germany

Basel, Switzerland

Nancy, France

Luxembourg, Luxembourg

Tuesday, October 5th

Today was a bit agressive. I was bound and determined that I was going to see the country of Luxembourg - so I went for a little train ride (or 6).

When I got up - I found my way to the central train station in Baden-Baden. I planned out a circular route of 4 countries. Going in, this wasn't my plan - but currently, there is some kind of construction going on with the rails between Germany and France. This meant that I either needed to take a lengthy bus ride and transfer trains a few times or loop around it. I opted for the loop.

I really didn't know what I was getting myself into. I decided to head to Luxembourg - for no other reason than - I can. After a few hours I arrived in the city of Luxembourg, Luxembourg. It's this small country that's surrounded by Beligium on the west, France on the south, and Germany on the east.

It's a "tweener" if there ever was such a place. It has a population of 1/2 million people. It has a highly developed economy - with the highest Gross Domestic Product per capita in the world. It's a mixed bag of all kinds of people. They speak French, German, or Luxembourgish. I asked this girl at a cafe in the train station what language she spoke at home. She said: "English, German, French". I then asked: "When you wake up in the morning, what language do you speak in your house". She said: "English, German, French" I'm thinking she didn't get what I was asking. Maybe folks ARE completely flexible. Maybe they like to spice things up a bit. Keep it interesting by going in and out of 3 languages pending the mood.

My trip in Luxembourg was very uneventful. It has a very German city flavor. I walked around the place for a short period of time - then boarded my next train - for Nancy, France. This move was solely the result of my book research. It mentioned this small town as a place to see. It was on the way - so I stopped in.

Nancy is this smaller town with a population of just over 100,000 people in the city proper. It's located in the northeast corner of France. The site to see here is the Place Stanislas - the large city square. It's made up of all these buildings of rococo architecture. It was built between 1751-1760. I again spent very little time in the city - just a few pictures and I was off to my next destination - Basel, Switzerland.

I rolled into Basel around 10:30pm. I didn't know what country I was in. I thought Basel was in Switzerland. Well, it is, but my train stopped in France and I walked over the border. I asked the guards: Where's Germany?" He pointed: "Just a few 100 yards over that way". Nice, so Basel is at the corner of 3 countries - France, Switzerland, and Germany.

I had 1-1/2 hours in Basel. I walked around the place in the dark. I found my way to this street famous for some nice restaraunts. My book mentioned a placed called Restaurant Bruderholz. Fancy. I walked back to the train station and got into Baden-Baden at 1:15am.

Today was all about quantity - not about quality. Every now and again you need a day like today to bring areas into persepctive.

Day #204 - Heidelberg, Germany

Schloss Castle - high on the hill

Schloss Castle

Looking down onto the town of Heidelberg from Schloss Castle

Town Square

Walking onto the bridge

Unique bridges

Monday, October 4th

Today I checked out of my place in Frankfurt and headed south - my eventual destination for tonight was Baden-Baden, Germany. On the way, I decided to stop by the town of Heidelberg.

Why Heidelberg? Well, for starters, it's the name of a cool restaurant/bar in Columbia, MO that I frequented while I was in college. Secondly, it's home to maybe the most famous castle in Germany - the Schloss.

I got into town about midday. I got a locker at the main train station and stuffed my gear inside. This left me completely mobile. Not every station offers this in Europe, but it's a really nice option when you can find it. It's only a couple euro for 4 hours. I've been really trying to eliminate hotel changes if possible (and doing daytrips); therefore, I haven't been looking for lockers. I would expect most stations in Germany to have this option if needed. Switzerland is also very good about this.

I took out walking. This town is fantastic. It's an incredible small town. People walking the streets along the river, interesting bridges, and this huge castle overlooking the city.

I need to clear something up here --------I was thinking today - I'm starting to get on my own nerves by saying everything is good. But, I can't help it. For the most part -- things have been really good on the trip. Being in a stress-free environment has played into this. I'm trying to stay positive; however, I would not say something is great if it wasn't. I would basically give a fair, honest take or I'd say very little if I wasn't a big fan. Travel means something different to each person. Some might like a place - some may not. I can't very well sit here and say I hate "X" country. When, there might be somebody planning a trip to this place right now. Other examples -- it's never good to say you hate a 'person's name' or a 'city'. Next thing you know - you find out your cousin just moved to the city you hate and has a kid on the way whose name will be the very same you just ripped on over Easter. Playing politian here - but sometimes you have to. If someone asks you: "How do I look tonight." Have you ever answered: "Well, quite frankly, you're hideous. Let's go somewhere dark so nobody can see me with you". I'm pretty sure that may not go over well.

Continuing with my walk-about in Heidelberg. I decided to climb to the top of this huge hill and see the castle. I've been pretty lame lately - running on treadmills and level ground. This brought the heart rate up today. I liked it alot. Once I got to the top, it was worth it. You could look out over the river and the town below.

The Schloss is a castle in ruins. It was built between 1400 and 1620, only to be destroyed by the French in 1689. Mark Twain once wrote this about the castle: "the Lear of inanimate nature - deserted, discrowned, beaten by the storms, but royal still, and beautiful."

I meandered around town and headed back to the train station. I took the next train into the town of Baden-Baden, Germany. This will be my home base for the next few days. At this point, I still don't know what I will be doing. I'm in a strategic position however. I'm in the southwest corner of Germany - very close to France and Switzerland -- literally an hour train to either destination. Oh - the other thing about Baden-Baden -- it's a great start point to the Black Forest and the thermal bath/sauna capital of Germany.

We'll see what the next few days bring -- I'm literally going to get up tomorrow, and, wherever I walk - that's where I'll be.

Day #203 - Rhine River Valley, Germany

Heading north along the Rhine River

An awesome sunset

Vineyards - high on the hillsides

Castles everywhere

Streets of Rudesheim

Vineyards in Rudesheim

Sunday, October 3rd

I really like Germany. Each day continues to meet or exceed my expectations. It feels very comfortable. People speak fluent English nearly everywhere, the transportation systems are solid, and the country offers history, mountains, scenic rivers and forests - all with a good ol' boy mentality. Combine this with the 'very true' perception that Germans are precise, detail oriented, and focused on quality -- a great place to visit.

I started the day off by going to church near the central train station. Trying to keep it going. Not saying this to appease my mom (although she keeps me in line), I've definitely come to appreciate that spiritual growth is important for me to be the best person I can.

I then took a train to the town of Rudesheim. It's on the southern portion of the Middle Rhine River. I was given this as a place to start my tour of the Rhine River Valley by the information folks in Frankfurt. If I had it to do all over again, I would lay out the day exactly how it unfolded.

The Rhine River is a 820 mile river that runs north from Switzerland to the North Sea. Perhaps the most well known section, and the section most frequently visited, is the area in western Germany. Specifically, the 50 mile stretch between the cities of Mainz to Koblenz, is a must-see area.

I started out in Rudesheim which is just north of Mainz. I took a few hours to walk around this small town. Unbelievable atmosphere. Vineyards everywhere, cable cars going up on the hill, interesting buildings, people watching, with food and drinks galore.

I crossed over the railroad tracks and boarded my boat at 4pm. I took a 4 hour boat ride up the Rhine River all the way to the city of Koblenz. Outstanding! I found my way to the main outside deck on the front of the boat. Within 10 minutes, I was gathered in a circle around 6 of my closest friends. There was a couple from Bloomington, Indiana, a young German couple (newly married) from Berlin, and the parents of the young married guy (also from Berlin).

We ordered a set of drinks and just kicked back. What we were witnessing was spectacular. Vineyards along the banks, castles perched high up on the hills, huge rocks as the river narrowed into a gorge, interesting small towns dotting the shoreline, and mountainsides filled with autumn-colored trees. If you want to get relaxed - go on this trip. I could get into details concerning the castles and what not, but quite frankly, I don't want to. Today was not about details - I will only remember the atmosphere. Buy a book at the stand before boarding and read about the sites during the cruise. This is what I did and it was a topic of conversation throughout the trip - it kept things interesting.

The younger German couple had just came back from the US - literally 2 days ago. They were married in Las Vegas and had been travelling all over the western portion of the US for the past month. This guy kept saying: "We loved the US, people are so laid back and friendly. When we left, we told ourselves to have that attitude". Now, first thing I thought about when I heard this was: "Is this guy nuts. If this was not a German business guy who had just come from San Diego and LA - I would not be having this same conversation. If I was speaking to a housewife from Barcelona who had just visited Philly - I doubt the same words would be spoken" However, I thought it was extremely cool. The US is a great place, but there can certainly be a variance in attitude pending the region visited - I've found that most Europeans do not see it the same way as the couple I visited with today. But, you know what, I've largely felt very well received during my journey to date.

The Germans commented on my relaxed state. I always find it kind of funny when people say this to me. My very first trip on an airplane was in graduate school at Univ of Missouri. About 5 of us and our professor flew to Albuquerque, NM to attend an environmental conference. I remember one of the days I was sitting at the pool - nobody around - just me. The waitress lady came out to bring me a drink. She said: "I've never seen anyone in my life look more relaxed than you do right now".

From that point forward, I tend to notice that about myself as well. (maybe that's why I enjoy travelling so much) Whenever I'm on trips, it's like the world is lifted from my shoulders. I'm so much better - I think more clearly, I have better instincts, and I generally have a very positive attitude. This journey of mine in Europe is alot about seeing the sites, but it's also about learning to take that same approach in everything I do. Keep the fire, ditch the anxiety and worries -- that's my perfect combo. Now - I just need to execute.

Here's to a great day with a little personal insite along the way.

Day #202 - Cologne, Germany

The Dom Cathedral - the major site of Cologne

The main bridge spanning the Rhine River

A look down the Rhine River

Busy streets on a Saturday

A beer wagon - people sit and pedal while going around the city - all the while drinking

Interesting fountain next to a cafe I was sitting beside

Saturday, October 2nd

Today was a really good day - relaxing. I ended up spending the day in Cologne (Koln). It was overcast with a little rain - but not bad at all. Actually, it was perfect weather for this style of city. October weather, about 50 degrees - throw on a jacket and make it happen.

Cologne reminds me alot of Edinburgh, Scotland. It has that old, historic feel about it. It was founded in 38 BC. Plus, the main attraction of Cologne - the Dom Cathedral - made me think about the Scott Monument in Edinburgh. Now, let me clarify by saying that the Dom Cathedral is substantially more impressive. It has these 2 huge twin spires. It took more than 600 years to complete the Dom. Construction was begun over some Roman ruins after Frederick Barbarossa donated the relics of the Three Magi to Cologne, establishing the city as a major pilgrimage destination. The picture of this cathedral - overlooking the Rhine River - can be found on almost every postcard in town.

I found out that the Cologne Marathon will be held tomorrow. Man - I'm not going out searching for these marathon sites - I'm just arbitrarily running into them. Vilnius, Berlin - now Cologne. Weird. This marathon consists of 12,000 runners - about 1/4 the size of Berlin. Cities all over the world have marathon events. It's a big-time money maker. Most of the food/drinks are donated and the workers are volunteers. The city gets the reward of an influx of people, staying in their hotels, eating in their restaurants, and touring their attractions - a winning equation.

The streets were packed. I couldn't believe how many people were out. It was shoulder to shoulder in the main tourist section of town. I stopped in a couple cafes and had a drink while taking in the atmosphere. I then walked across the bridge spanning the Rhine River. Impressive. The 2 main train stations are positioned just off the central bridge on either side of the river. There were a bunch of locks on this fence segment on the bridge. The locks had been placed by couples after getting married. I've seen this in other cities as well - it must be the thing to do in Europe -- place a lock on a bridge for symbolism. Perhaps this is done in the US?

Within Germany, Cologne is known as a major media center. Several television and radio stations have their headquarters in the city. There's also several museums of note - Museum Ludwig, Germano-Roman Museum, and the Wallraf-Richartz Museum.

I didn't do any tours within the buildings. I just spent my time walking and looking at the sites. Very nice city - definitely a solid day-trip at minimum.

I hope to take a Rhine River tour tomorrow. Good night for now.

Day #201 - Frankfurt, Germany

One of the "Old Timer" spots with a look into the city

Emporer's Cathedral

Tree-lined streets in many areas

St. Catherine's Church

Old Opera House

Friday, October 1st

Today starts my favorite month of the year. I love October. It started with sunshine here in Frankfurt. I can't tell you how much a little sunshine does to the spirits. I've been wallering around in rain gear jumping puddles for days.

It's 2am right now on Friday night (Saturday morning). I was on a roll with my finances. I was going to do a 'state of the union' for the 2nd third of my journey - but I think I'll just keep it until the end. I still have alot of countries to go. One interesting thing I discovered - I've stayed in 100 different locations in the past 200 days. These overnights have ranged from buses, to planes, to trains, to ships, to hostals, to bed & breakfasts, to people's homes, to tents, to the average everyday hotel. Keeping it going.

Today I got a chance to really see Frankfurt. It's not too big of a city - so I took a leisurely stroll around the streets and the many areas. I think the neatest place in the city is the main central square. The Romer (city hall) is a really impressive building. This sits on one side of the square - while many half-timbered homes line another side.

Frankfurt also has some interesting churches. The Emperor's Cathedral sits close to the waterfront with a towering peak. Consecrated in the name of St. Bartholomew in 1239, the cathedral was chosen as official site for the elections of emperors of the Holy Roman Empire in 1356. St. Nicholas Church sits in the main city center. From the 14th century onwards, the gallery was used to seat city councillors during festivites. St. Catherine's Church has origins tracing to the 14th century - it was consecrated as a protestant church in 1681.

I also enjoyed walking along the River Main. They have a great running/walking path along the river. I got some incredible pictures looking back into the city skyline. I discovered there is some kind of 'old-timer' festival going on this weekend. There were small bands playing in different locations. The beer was flowing. My favorite time of the day was hearing the song: "Sweet Caroline" in German - watching the people dance and get into it.

Tomorrow, I'm either going on a Rhine River tour or heading to the city of Cologne -- pending weather. This whole area around Frankfurt is filled with sites - I look forward to branching out and seeing more.

Day #200 - Frankfurt, Germany

Romer - the City Hall Building

Romerberg - Historical City Center

St. Nicholas Church - located in the City Center

One of the many skyscrapers

Overlooking the Main River

Thursday, September 30th

Coming to you live from Frankfurt, Germany. I had a couple days to get some things organized and also gain some needed rest - back in the game.

On Thursday, I headed out of Schrobenhausen very early. I took a 2 train combination arriving into Frankfurt around 12 noon. First thing I noticed, the city is called Frankfurt am Main. What's that all about? I just looked it up. I guess the old English name was Frankfurt on the Main - because the city of Frankfurt is located on the Main River. Nice - but I'm loosing the "am Main" bit as a continue with my blog.

Remember a while back when I passed through Hamberg, I was surprised that this city was the second largest in Germany (to Berlin). I would have guessed Munich or Frankfurt as the second largest. Today, I'm surprised to find out that Frankfurt is only the 5th largest city in Germany - behind Berlin, Hamburg, Munich, and Cologne.

Frankfurt is the financial and transportation center of Germany. When I arrived into the central train station - it was enormous and very impressive. I've actually been eating lunch the past 2 days at the rail station because they have some nice options. Walking out into the city, you see many skyscraper buildings. Many more than I remember seeing in either Berlin or Munich.

I'm reading that Frankfurt is the financial center in continental Europe. It's the seat of the European Central Bank, the German Federal Bank, the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, and the Frankfurt Trade Fair. Frankfurt is also a major aviation hub - with one of the largest international airports in the world. It's also considered an "alpha city" - meaning it's deemed to be an important node point in the global economic system. It's ranked 20th in the list of "Alpha Cities". This lists (in order from #1 to #20): New York, London, Tokyo, Paris, Hong Kong, Chicago, LA, Singapore, Sydney, Seoul, Brussels, San Francisco, Wash D.C., Toronto, Beijing, Berlin, Madrid, Vienna, Boston, Frankfurt.

If you're wondering why I continue to present lists like the one above - I'm a big-picture type of guy. I like to start from the top and peel the layers back. It helps me gain perspective on things. It's how I attack problems. I can make alot of assumptions about places based on location, size, world rank, etc. Example, there's currently 6.8 billion people in the world - 2.5 billion in the countries of China and India alone. This figure, with the fact that only 2 cities in these countries make the "Alpha Top 20 list" - tells me that China and India have alot of very poor areas. The US has 6 representives in the 'Alpha List" - that's why we're the 'Big Dogs'.

OK - back to Thursday. First order of business, like I mentioned yesterday, was to do some shopping. Running shoes - check, watch - check, power gels - check. Solid. I will say this - stick with buying your running shoes in the US. I've priced these in several countries - very expensive. I was waiting for Germany, because I felt comfortable here and thought maybe I could swing a better deal - not so much. I basically paid double versus US prices.

I'm staying at a place about 10 minutes out of the city - with a 1.5 mile walk from the train station. It's a nice place however. I walked around the city for a little while after making my purchases. It was rainy and dreary. The last 5 days have been like this. I decided to call it an early night. I caught up on some emails and went to bed.

Here's to some sunshine tomorrow.