Picture tag: 2017

May

2014

Helsinki Finland

Those of you who know us might know that we’re not city folk in general. We’ll go to a city and spend time occasionally, but we wouldn’t pick a city as vacation destination. Having said that, it isn’t a surprise that, while we were impressed with Helsinki, it wouldn’t necessarily be a destination for a vacation to Finland. Rather, we would probably fly in and spend an afternoon seeing the sights; maybe have coffee and a pastry in a coffee shop somewhere and then make our way north to Lapland to see some reindeer.

Continue reading →

May

2014

Copenhagen

Today was a lazy day in Copenhagen, Denmark. We left the ship at around 9:00 AM and were guided by a tour guide to all the various sites of the city, including the palaces of the royals of Denmark, the Parliament building, the Old Stock Exchange, and even passed an amusement park. Continue reading →

May

2014

Is the Food Quality aboard Cruise Ships Changing?

When you read the cruise and travel blogs, it seems that a lot of folks believe that the quality of the food aboard cruise ships has declined over the past few years. Many people complain about the overall quality, but when you really drill down to the specifics, it’s not clear what they mean.

During this cruise we’ve had a lot of time to give this some thought and have made a couple of observations. And of course, we’ve formed a couple of opinions about the quality of the food that we would like to share here.

First, we should make some qualifying statements so you can better understand why we have the opinions we have about cruise ship food. Not long ago, we entered into a weight loss program. More of an overall fitness and wellness program really, but part of the philosophy in our weight loss program was that, since we were going to significantly restrict the quantity of our food intake, we would concentrate on overall food quality to help make up for the lack of volume. It’s been working for us, but we’ve made some changes to our diets as a result and certain kinds of foods are not part of our normal routine anymore. Continue reading →

May

2014

Ponta Delgada

Ponta Delgada is a small city of around 70,000 people located on the island of Sao Miguel in the Azores. Situated west of Portugal in the Atlantic Ocean, this area has been continuously inhabited since at least 1444, when small fishing villages were established around the islands. In the early part of the 19th century, Ponta Delgada was of significant economic importance to Portugal and at one point was actually considered the third largest city based on economic strength and population. The farm land surrounding the city at one point had a major citrus industry, trading extensively with the United Kingdom. Continue reading →

May

2014

Driving on the Left Side

I don’t know how many times I’ve heard someone from the US ask if a particular country drives on the wrong side of the road. When they say that, they are of course referring to driving on the left side rather than the right side of the road as is the rule here in the States. Often, I’ve heard them say it in the presence of someone who comes from a country that drives on the left, not realizing how that kind of question, phrased in that way, could leave another person feeling a little put out. Continue reading →

May

2014

2014 Atlantic Crossing Galleries

In this gallery, we’ve set aside some room for images from our 2014 Atlantic crossing aboard the Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Star. Here we expect to post images from our days at sea as well as shots we’ll make as we tour through various cities from Ponta Delgado in the Azores, to Dover, England, and many stops along the Baltic Sea.

We hope to post these images as we make them, so check back often.

Hotel Jagdschloss Kranichstein Museum
There's a museum capturing the years as a hunting castle beginning in 1580 qt the Hotel Jagdschloss Kranichstein. Photo by Donald Fink.

Room at the Jagdschloss Kranichstein Hotel
A typical room at the Jagdschloss Kranichstein Hotel near Darmstadt. Photo by Donald Fink.

Lounge and Bistro at Hotel Jagdschloss Kranichstein
The loungs at the Hotel. Photo by Don Fink.

Breakfast room and Bistro at Hotel Jagdschloss Kranichstein
Breakfast room and bistro at Hotel Jagdschloss Kranichstein. Photo by Don Fink.

Entrance to Hotel Jagdschloss Kranichstein
Entrance to Hotel Jagdschloss Kranichstein and hotel restaurant. Photo by Donald Fink.

Pond Hotel Jagdschloss Kranichstein
A small pond next to the hotel. Phtot by Bonnie Fink.

Pathway Hotel Jagdschloss Kranichstein
A pathway next to the lake. Photo by Bonnie Fink

Gate at Hotel Jagdschloss Kranichstein
Old gate going into the hotels property. Photo by Don Fink.

Driveway Hotel Jagdschloss Kranichstein
Hotel Driveway. Photo by Bonnie Fink

Fire pit at Hotel Jagdschloss Kranichstein
Fire pit for guest enjoyment. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Stag Statue Hotel Jagdschloss Kranichstein
Stag Statue. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Castle Eltz
850 year old Castle Eltz. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Restaurantat Burg Eltz
One of two restaurants at Castle Eltz. Photo by Donald Fink.

Burg Eltz
Some of the walls at Burg Eltz stand 30 or even 40 meters tall. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

River Eltz
Looking down at the valley below and the River Eltz. Photo by Donald Fink

Castle Eltz Private Chapel
Rooms for worship were often built high above the ground, outside of the main building. The rules requiring a private worship place were complex. One could not live above the chapel, for example, which is probably the reason they were attached outside the main building. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Castle Eltz
Looking up from the interior courtyard at Castle Eltz. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Castle Eltz Crest
Crest over door at Castle Eltz. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Castle Eltz Courtyard
Interior Courtyard at Castle Eltz. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Castle Eltz Dormers
Interesting feature on the roof. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Rain spout
An interesting rain spout at the Castle Eltz. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Castle Eltz Additions
The building the restrooms are in at Burg Eltz. It's not clear if this building is new, or simply part of the the original compound, re-purposed as a public toilet. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Castle Eltz Walls
Exterior of Castle Eltz. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Siege Castle at Burg Eltz
Ruins of the siege castle that was built by Archbishop Balwin during the Eltz Feud of 1330. The ruins are approximately 230 meters away from Eltz Castle and uphill, which provided a good strategic position from which to launch a five year attack. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Siege Castle On The Hill
Ruin of the Siege Castle sitting above Castle Eltz. You can see from this view how it command a strategic advantage in the days when throwing rocks was a war plan. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Castle Eltz Gate
Door in the gate of Castle Eltz. Photo be Bonnie Fink.

River Eltz
The river Eltz below the Castle. Photo by Donald Fink.

River View of the River Eltz
River Eltz. Photo by Donald Fink.

Castle Eltz From Below
Looking up at Castle Eltz from the river. Photo by Donald Fink.

Shuttle Bus at Castle Eltz
Shuttle bus that takes you from the parking lot to Castle Eltz. Photo by Donald Fink.

Interior Courtyard at Schloss Burg
Looking up at the castle from the interior courtyard. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Gallery of Ancestors and Knights Hall
Gallery of Ancestors and Knights Hall. Photo by Donald Fink.

Gallery of Ancestors and Knights Hall, Schloss Burg
Stories about the Bergisch lords have been captured on paintings in the Gallery of Ancestors and Knights Hall. Photo by Donald Fink.

Gallery of Ancestors and Knights Hall Paintings
The walls tell the stories of Burg Castle in the Gallery of Ancestors and Knights Hall. Photo by Donald Fink.

Fireplace and Windows at Schloss Burg
Gallery of Ancestors and Knights Hall at Schloss Burg. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Suit of Armour
Suits of Armour from the Middle Ages are on display at the museum at Schloss Burg. Photo by Donald Fink.

Suit of Armour Preserved
The Armour looks small because the men in Medieval Times averaged about 5 feet. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Dining Room at Schloss Burg
This large room was set up as a dining room. Large pictures on the wall telling the story of the castle. Photo by Donald Fink.

Lion Shield at Schloss Burg
Lion painting, probably depicting a family shield. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Great Dining Hall at Schloss Burg
Another view of the dining room and paintings at Schloss Burg. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Angel at Schloss Burg
This Angel Warrior is in prominence at the family chapel at Schloss Burg. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Stained Glass Schloss Burg
Stained glass in the chapel at Schloss Burg. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Carved Pews
Carved pews in the chapel. There were only nine of them, with benches lining the walls. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Suit of Armour at Schloss Burg
Suit of Armour ready for jousting. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Clock Tower
View of the clock tower from the castle at Schloss Burg. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Music Room at Schloss Burg
What a music room might have looked like in the middle ages. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Kitchen at Schloss Burg
Representation of a kitchen in the Middle Ages. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Thieves Tower at Schloss Burg
The outer wall of the castle looking at Thieves Tower. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Art Above a Window
Interesting figures above a window. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Warrior Stand Guard
This unmarked statue of a Middle Ages Warrior at Schloss Burg could have been one of the Berg royalty. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Fountain at Schloss Burg
It's unlikely that this fountain at Schloss Burg is authentic from the Middle Ages, with the copper pipe and all.

Eglebert II von Berg
Engelbert II von Berg was born in Schloss Burg, but educated in Cologne. He held several major political and religious offices during his short life, but was eventually killed, presumably because of his defence of nuns in 1225. It's thought that the person responsible for his death was his cousin, Count Frederick of Isenberg, who was accused of defrauding a Group of nuns. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Main Street Cochem
The main street in cochem along the Moselle river. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Bike and Walking Path
Much of the valley in the Cochem area has a bike and walking path. This path not only extends through town, but links most of the villages in the region. Photo by Donald Fink.

Restaurant
One of the many unique restaruants in Cochem, Germany. This establishemnt seemed to be carved out of a cave in the side of the hill. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Moselle River
Looking toward the town of Cochem on the Moselle River with the Castle Reichsburg on the hill. Photo by Donald Fink.

Old Town in Cochem
The old town of Cochem, Germany. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Restaurants and Stores in Cochem
Restaurants and stores in the beautiful old town of Cochem, Germany. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Brightly Painted Hotels
There are many small Hotels and Restaurants in Cochem, Germany. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Flowers Are Everywhere
Germans seem to take pride in the appearance of their buildings. Here in cochem, we've routinely found bluming flowers decorating most of the buildings. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Cobble Stoned Street
Once you step inside the town of cochem, you find narrow cobblestone walkways. The building with the round top is St. Martin Catholic Church. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

One of Hundreds of Interesting Buildings in Old Town, Cochem
Another beautiful old building in Old Town, Cochem. Notice the timber frame construction on the second floor. This seems to be common for the area. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Cochem Restaurants and Stores
This appears to be a walkway between stores and restaurants in cochem, but of course it's actually a street. Usually closed to vehicular traffic, it does indeed serve mostly as a walkway as it probably did when this street was first constructed. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Town Square Cochem
Buildings around the town square. Notice the bells in the building on the upper right. They play a tune periodically. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Main Square, Cochem Germany
Row of old buildings in Cochem Germany. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Inside the Town
Inside of the town of Cochem, Germany. Photo by Bonnie Fink

Busy Center Square
Near the town square. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

More of Cochem across the river
Across the Moselle River is a continuation of the village of Cochem. Until the first part of the 20th century, the village across the river was called Cond. It was a smaller fishing village. With the completion of the Cochem Bridge, seen here on the left, the two villages combined. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Chocolates
Very cute chocolates. Notice the eyes and the chocolate sprinkles used for fur. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Aross the Cochem Bridge
There are more restaurants and hotels across the Moselle River. Many of the hotels across the river offer fabulous views of the Reichsberg Castle. There are lots of vineyards in the region too as you can see on the hillside behind the village. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Wine Statue
A statue in celebration of wine. There was a plaque telling you not to drink the water. It's not really wine. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

St. Martin Catholic Church
St. Martin's Church has a very interesting rounded steeple. The present church dates back to 1950, but there has been a church on that site since the 1500's. Some of the buildings in Cochem suffered bomb damage during World War II. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Pedestrian Walkway
At one end of the main street is a pedestrian walkway going past many stores and cafes. This area is actually on the main thoroughfare in cochem, but it's set back from the highway and safe from vehicles. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Stumberger's Hotel
Stumbergers Hotel. Quite a bit of parking and it's free. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Double Room at Stumberger's Hotel
Double room with balcony. Photo by Donald Fink.

Breakfast Selection at Stumberger's Hotel
Some of the breakfast selection at Stumberger's Hotel in Cochem. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Breakfast Bread at Stumberger's Hotel
Breakfast bread and condiments. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Beer Garden
In the summer you can enjoy the Beer Garden. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Breakfast Room at Stumberger's
A window seat in the breakfast room has a great view of the castle. It was a bit foggy on this morning, so the castle was somewhat obstructed. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

View From Balcony
We enjoyed the view sitting on our balcony at Stumberger's Hotel. Photo by Donald Fink.

Calvin Klein Store
This interesting old building will hold a Calvin Klein store in the Konigsallee shopping area. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Konigsallee Shopping Area
A view of the Konigsallee shopping area. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Flamingos
A little touch of home in Germany. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Shopping
More of the very popular Konigsallee shopping area . Phto by Bonnie Fink.

Modern Building
Dusseldorf is a mix of old buildings and very modern new buildings. This building has cafes and shops. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Outdoor Cafes, AltStadt, Dusseldirf
In the Altstadt, old town, there are many outdoor cafes along the Rhine River. Photo by Donald Fink.

Hofgarten Park, Dusseldorf
The Hofgarten Park, is the oldest public park in Germany, The oldest sectoion dates back to 1769. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Walking Paths
There are many walking paths through the park as well as old statues and modern ones too. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

St. John's Church
St. John's Church, a protestant church, was built in 1875. It was damaged in WWII but rebuilt and opened in 1953. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

High Fashion Stores in the Konigsallee shopping Area.
The popular shopping area seemed to always be busy. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Breuninger Store
One of the many modern stores in the Konigsallee shopping area. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Geese in the Hofgarten
You will find a wide variety of birds in the park. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Swan Family
A family group of swans decided to walk around for awhile instead of swim. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Lion Statue
A classic statue with modern building behind, in the Hofgarten. Photo by Bonnie Fink

Modern and Old Buildings
Modern and old buildings side by side. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Pink Statue
Modern and very pink statue. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Fast Food
If you have a craving for fast food, you can find it in the Altstadt, Old City. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

The Rathaus
The Rathaus or City Hall is found in the Altstadt, or old town. The original building was build in 1570 and additional construction in 1875. Photo by Bonnie Fink

Altstadt, Dusseldorf
The cobblestoned streets of Altstadt, Old Town Dusseldorf. Photo by Donald Fink.

Rhine River
Many open air cafes along the Rine River in Altstadt, Dusseldorf. Photo by Donald Fink.

Room at the Melia Dusseldorf
This is a typical room at the Melia Hotel in Dusseldorf. It was quite large and comfortable. We were on the 8th floor and had a nice view of the Hofgarten, Park. Photo by Donald Fink.

Melia Dusseldorf
Melia Dusseldorf is a very modern hotel, conviently located about 15 minute's walking time to the Konigsallee shopping area or a 15 minute walk to Altstadt, Old Town, through the Hofgarten, Park. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Juice Station at the Melia Hotel
Juice station at breakfast in the Melia Hotel, Dusseldorf. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Buffet Breakfast, Melia Hotel in Dusseldorf
The breakfast buffet at the Melia Hotel in Dusseldorf had just about everything needed for both a European breakfast preferance and an American choice. Photo by Donald Fink.

Desk Area in the Rooms
Desk Area in a room at the Melia Hotel in Dusseldorf. Quite a bit of room was used by a completely full minibar in a refrigerator. Photo by Donald Fink.

Charging Station in Garage.
Dusseldorf is on the leading edge of technology, so it was no surprise that we found this Tesla sponsored electric car Charging Station in the parking garage in the basement. It was unclear if a full charge was included in the 25.00 Euro parking fee, but we did see a Tesla parked in one spot getting a charge. Photo by Donald Fink.

Cobblestone Streets in Schwerin
Looking down a cobblestone street at the Schwerin Cathedral. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Old Buidlings in Schwerin
Old buildings surrounding the Market Square. Folks were setting up for a weekend festival and putting up bench seating. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Arts and Crafts Store.
A small half-timbered house from the 17th centurty survived the fire that nearly destroyed the city and has been preserved. Photo by Donald Fink.

Zur Guten Quelle
One of the many hotels in Schwerin. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Statue on Building in Schwerin.
The weight of this building is on this statue. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Mecklenburg State Theatre
The Mecklenburg State Theatre built between 1883-1886.

Chess Game in Town Square Schwerin
There was a festival happening this weekend and one of the events was a chest game. One man was playing all of these people. No idea how many games he won. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Timber Frame Building
One of the many timber frame buildings in Schwerin. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Street Scene in Schwerin
Street Scene in Schwerin. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Schwerin Cathedral
View of the Schwerin Cathedral from the Market Square. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Cobble Stone Alley
There are many of these narrow cobblestone alleys in Schwerin, each one is filled with stores and cafes. Photo by Donald Fink.

Market Square Schwerin
The colorful Market Square is a great place to start your adventure in Schwerin. Photo by Donald Fink.

Market Square in the Rain
Tourist joining their tour groups in Market Square during a rain shower. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Early Morning in Schwerin
Early morning in Schwerin before the hustle and bustle of the day starts. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Interior of the Schwerin Cathedral
Intereior of the Schwerin Cathedral. Photo by Donald Fink.

Cupcake Store in Schwerin
A fun cupcake shop across from our hotel. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Schwerin Cathedral
The oldest surviving building in Schwerin. The original cathedral was built in the 1100's and soon became too small. The present buildings was started in 1270 and added to over the centurys. Photo by Donald Fink.

Altar in Schwerin Cathedral
The Altar in the Schwerin Cathedral. Photo by Donald Fink.

Flowers for Sale
There was a farmers market in Market Square with lots of beautiful flowers for sale. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Fruit and Vegatables
The farmers market also had a large assortment of fruit and vegatables for sale. Photo by Bsonnie Fink.

Restaurant in Weinhaus Uhle
A breakfast buffet is served in the morning. In the evening it bcomes a gourmet restaurant. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Comical Eggs
We had comical hardboiled eggs every morning for breakfast. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Knight's Hall
The Knight's Hall makes the perfect room for a family celebration or wedding. Photo by Donald Fink.

Weinhaus Uhle
Entrance to Weinhas Uhle. Parking is available underground. Photo by Donald Fink,

Wine Shop and Bistro
Wine Shop and Bistro at Wienhaus Uhle. Photo by Donald Fink.

Guest Room at Wienhaus Uhle
Double room deluxe with Balcony at Weinhaus Uhle. Photo by Donald Fink.

Sitting Room.
Sitting Room and entrance to Balcony in a typical guest room at Weinhaus Uhle. Photo by Donald Fink.

Modern Shower
Modern shower and towel warming rack in a guest room at Weinhaus Uhle. Photo by Donald Fink.

Details in the Dining Room.
Incredible ceiling and details in the Dining Room at Weinhaus Uhle. Photo by Donald Fink.

Junior Suite ”Parsifal”
View of the Junior Suite ”Parsifal”. Photo by Donald Fink.

Horse Carriage
A horse carriage going into town in front of Villa Ludwig. Photo by Donald Fink.

View of Neuschwanstein Castle
View of Neuschwanstein Castle from the patio. Photo by Donald Fink.

Hotel Villa Ludwig
Hotel Villa Ludwig and Neuschwanstein Castle. Photo by Donald Fink.

Front Patio
Front Patio and view of Neuschwanstein Castle at Villa Ludwig. Photo by Donald Fink.

Garage
The underground Garage at Villa Ludwig. This guest parking area has nineteen spaces. There are eighteen rooms in the hotel. Looks like they've got it covered. Photo by Donald Fink.

Breakfast and tea time seating
Breakfast and tea time seating. Photo by Donald Fink.

Breakfast and tea time seating.
Breakfast and tea time seating. Photo by Donald Fink.

Patio at Villa Ludwig
Patio seating at Villa Ludwig. Photo by Donald Fink.

Neuschwanstein Castle
Here's a view of Neuschwanstein Castle as seen from Villa Ludwig. Many of the rooms have a castle view from the balcony. Photo by Donald Fink.

Villa Ludwig Chalet
The ordinary rooms at Villa Ludwig are good, but if you need a little more room, or more privacy, there's always the Chalet in the back. This is new for this year and should be popular with guests traveling with large families. Photo by Donald Fink.

Apples in Schwangau
A lone Apple tree in the garden at Villa Ludwig is located just in front of the chalet. Photo by Donald Fink.

Vilage of Schwangau
Tourists can take over the village of Schwangau at times, spilling into the streets. Locals seem to take it in stride. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Building in Schwangau
One of the many beautiful buildings in Schwangau done in the classic Bavarian style. Photo by Donald Fink.

Hohenschwangau Castle
Hohenschwangau Castle, one of the two castles in Schwangau. This castle was built by the then crowned Prince Maximillion II, who would later be King of Bavaria and father to Mad King Ludwig II. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Horse Carriage
If you don't want to walk up to the castles, there are carriage rides availabe, or if that's not to your liking, there are busses. Photo by Bonnie FInk.

Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein Castle. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Alpsee
Reflections in the Alpsee. Couldn't ask for a better day for a stroll around the lake. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Boat House
The Boat House on the Alpsee. Photo by Donald Fink.

Hohenschwangau Castle
Hohenschwangau Castle overlooking Lake Alpsee. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Walking around Lake Alpsee.
The path around Lake Alpsee, for the most part is flat and well maintained. There is a spot on the north side of the lake that climbs a bit and has a few rocks to negotiate, but most of the trail is as easy to negotiate as this trail segment shown here. Photo by Donald Fink.

ChangingLleaves.
We were lucky this year in Germany. We enjoy the autumn leaves anywhere we can find them, and while at Schwangau, the leaves changed almost instantly. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Walking Across the Bridge
This was one of the bridges that were on the hiking path around the Alpsee. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Hohenschwangau Castle and Neuschwanstein Castle.
For much of the walk along the south side of Lake Alpsee, you could turn back and see both castles in Schwangau. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Alpsee
Lake Alpsee in the morning. Photo by Donald Fink.

Lech River
The Lech River near Fussen. You can see the distinct turquois color of the water. We see that same turquios color in glacier fed streams and rivers in the northern US, near Glacier National Park. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

The View From Austria
The mountain peak in the center of the photo is Zugspitz, the tallest mountain in Germany. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Mountain Range in Austria.
One of the many mountain ranges in Austria. It reminds of the northern Rocky Mountains, except with German speaking people. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Mountain Peak Covered by Clouds
One of the many mountains in Austia covered by clouds with a small glacier. Photo by Bonnie FInk.

Snowy Peak
Snowy Peak in Austira. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Gurgltal Valley
Looking down into the Austrian valley of Gurgltal. Photo by Bonnie FInk.

Gurgltal Valley
The lovely green Gurgltal Valley. Photo by Bonnie FInk.

Snow Covered Mountains in Austria
A beautiful scene in Austria. Photo by Donald Fink.

Gurgltal Valley
Panorama of the Gurgltal valley. Photo be Donald Fink.

Entrance to Schwerin Palace.
Entrance to Schwerin Palace. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Roof line of Schwerin Palace.
You will see several different archetucual styles on the roof line. photo by Bonnie Fink.

Schwerin Palace Through The Trees.
Schwerin Palace through the trees. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Garden at Schwerin Palace
The Palace garden in front of the Orangery. At one time the Orangery was a place to grow fruit trees. Today it's a very nice restaurant. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Golden Dome of Schwerin.
The Golden Dome dates between 1847 to 1857. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Side view of Schwerin Palace.
Side view of Schwerin Palace. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Domes of Schwerin Palace.
Several of the Domes of Schwerin Palace. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Lake Schwerin.
Lake Schwerin. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Statue at Schwerin Palace.
This is a sculpture of a shepherd being attacked by a panther. The expression on the face is unusually realistic. Photo by Donald Fink.

Two Swans
Two Swans. Schwerin Palace is a great place to bird watch, you will see swans, geese, mud hens, seagulls, and many other types of birds. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Two more Swans.
Two more Swans. Okay, probably the same two swans as before with a different pose. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Intricate Details
Everywhere you look you will find intricate details, including in the sculptures. Photo by Donald FInk.

Schwerin Palace and the Golden Dome.
The roofline of Schwerin Place is quite intricate. Photo by Bonnie FInk.

Golden Dome at Schwerin Palace
Closeup of the Golden Dome. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Tour Boats at Schwerin Lake
There are several tour boats to choose from if you want to spend time on Schwerin Lake. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Gardens at Schwerin Palace.
The Gardens at Schwerin Palace. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Different Styles on the Roofline.
Different styles on the roof line at Schwerin Palace. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Lamp Post
Even the lamp posts have intricate details at Schwerin Palace. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Statue of Obotrite Prince Niklot
Statue of Obotrite Prince Niklot who died in 1160. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Buildings on Galgengasse.
Hocher Hotel and cafe, one of our favorite places for dessert. The cafe is just down the street from the the Galgen Gate, one of the entrances to the old town. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Market Square
Town hall on Market Square. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Statue
One of the many wonderful statues on a fountain. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Flower building
Another beautiful building not far from the Galgen Gate. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Schneeball
Rothenburg is famous for it's Schneeballs, a pastry that looks like a snowball. You can get them covered in powdered sugar, chocolate, or plain. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Medieval Building
A beautiful medieval building. Photo by Donald Fink.

White Tower
Looking toward White Tower. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Outdoor Food Stand
Flowers, pumpkins, watermelon and other fresh produce on display in the street. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Pink House
A colorful medievel building with flower boxes on Galgengasse, near the Galgen Gate. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Cobblestone Streets
Looking down the cobblestone streets. Photo by Bonnie Fink

St. George and the Dragon
Statue of St. George and the Dragon mounted on one of the buildings. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

St. James Church, or in German St. Jakob Church. This Lutheran Church was built between 1311-1484. Photo by Bonnie Fink

Statue
One of many statues at St. James Church. Photo by Bonnie Fink

Details of St. James Church
You could spend hours looking at the details on St. James church. Photo by Bonnie Fink,

Bakery Sign
Sign in front of one of the many bakeries. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Sunflowers
Beautiful sunflowers framing a beautiful yellow building. Photo by Donald Fink.

Jack O' Lantern
Even the Germanys like a cute Jack O'Lantern. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Sign
This sign speaks for it's self. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Burg Hotel
A Hotel in the old city, next to the city wall. Photo by Donald Fink.

Medieval Buildings
One of the Medieval buildings near the Casle Gate. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Castle Garden
On this site in 1142 there was a castle. Today a lovely garden to stroll thru. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Castle Gate
The castle Gate was designed to protect the town from invaders from the west. They could also pour boiling pitch on invaders. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Cobblestone Street
You will find shops and restaurants down every street in the old town. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Markus Tower and Roder Arch
Markus Tower and Roder Arch were build around 1200. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Merman Statue
Another interesting statue of a Merman. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Tower and Medieval Wall
The wall and towers around Rothenburg were built in the 13th century. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

View From the Wall Around Rothenburg.
You can still walk on the wall around Rothenburg, this is one of the views you will see. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

13th Century Wall
If you want to take a walk back in time you are able to walk the wall, built in the 13th century around the town. Photo by Donald Fink.

The Old Forge
The old forge is a half timbered house. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Galgen Gate
Galgen Gate of the entrances to the Old Town. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Cute Bear
Just a cute bear blowing bubbles. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

A Golden Merman
Another Merman Statue. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Strange Fountain
Just an unusual fountain. Photo by Bonnie Fink

Solar Panels
Solar Panels in a field in rural Germany

Freeway in Germany
Many freeways in eastern Germany have been constructed since the re-unification only 25 years ago.

Historic Schwerin
Historic Schwerin with the steeple of the Schwerin Cathedral in the background.

Timber Frame
Timber frame structures, if they are protected from fire, can last several hundred years. This building shows a date of 1698 on the front.

Windturbines
Windturbines between Warnemuende and Schwerin, Germany

Historic Schwerin
Street in historic Schwerin

Schwerin Cathedral
Inside the Schwerin Cathedral, a Lutheran Church

Floor
Floors in Schwerin Palace.

Inside the Schwerin Castle

Petermannchen
The ghost of Schwerin Castle, named Petermannchen is said to be no more than four feet high.

Library inside the Schwerin Castle

Ceiling inside the Schwerin Castle

Schwerin castle
Schwerin Castle and garden grounds.

Schwerin castle
Another view of Schwerin Castle.

Farm Land
The view of farm land along the road could be anywhere in any developed country.

Reichsburg Castle
Reichsburg Castle sits above the town of Cochem, Germany

Boats on the Mosel River
Boats on the Mosel River in the town of Cochem

Street scene Cochem, Germany
Street scene in the town of Cochem, Germany

Reichsburg Castle
Reichsburg Castle in the town of Cochem, Germany

Dining room Reichsburg Castle
The old dining room inside Reichsburg Castle

Mosel River
View of the Mosel River and the town of Cochem, Germany

Reichsburg Castle
Reichsburg Castle in the town of Cochem, Germany

Reichsburg Castle
Exterior walls of Reichsburg Castle

Reichsburg Castle
Dining room at Reichsburg Castle

Stained Glass Windows
Stained Glass windows inside Reichsburg Castle

Mermaid
A strange mermaid decoration inside Reichsburg Castle

dining room
dining room in Reichsburg Castle

Mosel River
View of the Mosel River and farmland

View of Cochem and Mosel River
View of the town of Cochem and Mosel River

No parking sign
No parking sign in german.

Town Square
Town Square in Cochem

Reichsburg Castle
View of Reichsburg Castle and the Mosel River

German Sign

Church in Heidelberg Germany

View of Heidelberg

Heidelberg Castle

Statue at Heidelberg Castle

Old Heidelberg
Street scene of old Heidelberg

German Sign
Sign in German

Ruins of Heidelberg Castle

Building in Heidelberg
Brick building in Heidelberg

View of the Neckar River
View of the town of Heidelberg and the Neckar River

Old town of Heidelberg
Old town of Heidelberg with the ruins of Heidelberg castle

Street scene in Heidelberg
Street scene in Heidelberg and a cup of Starbucks

Open Market

Interesting building in Schwangau

Alpine building
Alpine Building in Schwangau

Town of Schwangau
Town of Schwangau and the Alps

Hohenschwangau Castle

View of Schwangau
View of Schwangau and the alps

Water Fountain
Interesting water fountain at Hohenschwangau Castle

Hohenschwangau Castle
Exterior view of Hohenschwangau Castle

Water Fountain
A water fountain at Hohenschwangau Castle

Knight
Statue of a knight at Hohenschwangau Castle

Hohenschwangau Castle
Exterior of Hohenschwangau Castle

Coat of Arms
Coat of arms at Hohenschwangau Castle

Hohenschwangau Castle
Exterior view of Hohenschwangau Castle

Lion Fountain
Lion Fountain at Hohenschwangau Castle

Hohenschwangau Castle
Looking up at Hohenschwangau Castle

Lion Fountain
Closeup of the Lion Fountain at Hohenschwangau Castle

Religious Fountain
Religious Fountain at Hohenschwangau Castle

Hohenschwangau Castle
Exterior of Hohenschwangau Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle
The fairy tale castle of Neuschwanstein Castle

Hohenschwangau
Nestled at the base of the Bavarian Alps, Hohenschwangau is the place to be if you want to see castles in Germany. Image by Bonnie Fink

Hohenschwangau

Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein Castle nestled in the mountains

Neuschwanstein Castle

Entrance to Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle
Entrance to Neuschwanstein Castle

Doorway at Neuschwanstein Castle

Courtyard at Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle

Horse drawn carriage at Neuschwanstein Castle
If you don't want to walk up to the castle you can take a horse drawn carriage

Forest near Neuschwanstein Castle

Hohenschwangau Castle
Exterior view of Hohenschwangau Castle

One of the beautiful buildings in Schwangau

Neuschwanstein Castle

Horse drawn wagon

Horses

Village of Schwangau

Kitchen at Hohenschwangau Castle

Hohenschwangau Castle

View of Hohenschwangau Castle
Viw of Hohenschwangau Castle and the town of Schwangau

Neuschwanstein Castle

View from Hohenschwangau Castle

town of Schwangau

Jakob Finck Winery

Statue in of Otto Von Bismarck Baden Baden
Statue of Otto Von Bismarck in Baden Baden

Old Town Baden Baden

Out door cafe in Baden Baden
Outdoor cafe in Baden Baden

Cafe in Baden Baden

Old town Baden Baden

Building in Baden Baden

Old town Baden Baden
Old Town Baden Baden

Cafe in Baden Baden

Old Town Baden Baden

Baden Baden
Street scene in Baden Baden

Baden Baden
Cafe in Baden Baden

Baden Baden
Fountain in Baden Baden

Baden Baden
Street Scene in Baden Baden

Cafe
Cafe in Baden Baden

Baden Baden
Street Scene in Baden Baden

Baden Baden
Old brick street

Baden Baden
Street Scene in Baden Baden

Baden Baden
Fancy brick work in Baden Baden

Baden Baden
Apartment in Baden Baden

Baden Baden
Street Scene in Baden Baden

Baden Baden
Out door cafe in Baden Baden

Baden Baden
Apartment in Baden Baden

Canal
Canal in Baden Baden

Harburg, Germany
River running thru Harburg, Germany

Harburg Castle
Harburg Castle sitting above the town of Harburg

Town of Harburg
Town of Harburg next to a river

Town of Harburg
Town of Harburg with castle above

Swans
Swans and cignets

Farm Field
Farm Field in Harburg

Harburg Castle

Town of Harburg

sign
Ausfhart

Harburg
Town of Harburg

Harburg Castle

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DLF7202916

Gate
Gate at Harburg Castle

Interior of Harburg Castle
Arch way inside of Harburg Castle

Town of Harburg

Town of Harburg
Houses in the town of Harburg

Ivy covered house
Ivy covered house in Harburg

House
House in Harburg

Town of Harburg

Fountain
Fountain in Harburg

Harburg Castle

Town of Harburg

Main street in Rothenburg
Street scene in Rothenburg

Street Scene
Street Scene Rothenburg

Old Buildings
Old Buildings in Rothenburg

Entrance
Entrance to Rothenburg

Street Scene
Street Scene in Rothenburg

Street Scene
Street Scene Rothenburg

Old Buildings
Old Buildings in Rothenburg

Cute building
Cute Building in Rothenburg

Fruit
Fruit for sale in Rothenburg

Clock Tower
Clock Tower in Rothenburg

Street Scene
Street scene in Rothenburg

Old Building
Old Building in Rothenburg

Street Scene
Street Scene in Rothenburg

House
House in Rothenburg

Street Scene
Street Scene in Rothenburg

Moped

Church in Rothenburg

Cobblestone
Cobblestone street

Statue
Statue in Rothenburg

Old Building
Old Building in Rothenburg

Street Scene
Street Scene in Rothenburg

Moped

Portable Toilet

Window box
Window Box

Old Building
Old Building in Rothenburg

Street Scene
Street Scene Rothenburg

Street Scene
Street Scene in Rothenburg

Old Door
Old Door in Rothenburg

German Sign
German sign in Rothenburg

Old Building
Old Building in Rothenburg

Street Scene
Street scene in Rothenburg

German Sign

Old Building
Old Building in Rothenburg

Street Scene
Street Scene in Rothenburg

Street scene
Street scene in Rothenburg

Old Building
Old Building in Rothenburg

Street Scene
Street Scene in Rothenburg

Street Scene in Rothenburg

Fountain
Fountain in Rothenburg

Cute truck
Cute Truck

Old Bridge
Old Bridge in Rothenburg

Interesting dormers
interesting dormers

Street Scene in Rothenburg

Statue
Statue in Rothenburg

Street Scene in Rothenburg

Old Building in Rothenburg
20150618_125647

Minons

Street Scene in Rothenburg

Interesting Dormer

Desserts

20150618_134107.jpg
20150618_134107

pastrys

Altes Forsthaus
A very nice restaurant Altes Forsthaus, is located next to the Castle. We had a very good desert there, and the main courses looked good too.

Bench Nome
This little guy is holding up one end of a bench in the garden at Lichtenstein Castle.

Bench Two
This happy guy is holding up the other end of the bench.

Bridge to Lichtenstein Castle
To enter Lichtenstein Castle you cross this wooden bridge.

Castle Grounds
Looking at Lichtenstein Castle behind the castle walls.

Echaz Valley
The view from Lichtenstein Castle looking down at the Echaz Valley.

Ivy Covered Walls
Ivy growing on the buildings on the castle grounds

Lichtenstein Castle Entrance
Entrance to Lichtenstein Castle grounds

Lichtenstein Castle Goat
One of several goats living on the grounds at Lichtenstein Castle.

Lichtenstein Castle
Lichtenstein Castle and the view into the Echaz Valley, Germany

Lichtenstein Castle
We had to come back a second day to get a little bit of blue sky, it was worth it to get this photo of Lichtenstein Castle.

outbuildings at Lichtenstein Castle
One of the beautiful outbuildings on the castle grounds at Castle Lichtenstein.

Rain Gutter
A very interesting rain gutter at Lichtenstein Castle.

Slug in Germany
This is a slug we saw on the grounds at Lichtenstein Castle. It was very large.

View of Lichtenstein Castle
View of the Castle and other buildings on the castle grounds.

May

2014

Communications From a Cruise Ship

One of the things we’ve quickly grown accustomed to in the 21^st century is the ability to communicate with just about any person, any time. We’ve also grew used to the idea that whatever information we want is at our fingertips pretty much instantly. Our cell phones have more computing power than the computers that landed the Apollo capsules on the moon, and we take that for granted. Continue reading →

May

2014

Fitness Aboard a Cruise Ship

For most cruises, use of the fitness center (gym), jogging and walking tracks, and wellness classes amounts to a token effort. We say this because the length of an average cruise is short enough that missing your normal daily workout during your cruise won’t have a major impact on your overall health. Continue reading →

Picture tag: 2017

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Communications From a Cruise Ship

Fitness Aboard a Cruise Ship

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