100 days in Europe

Awesome Austria Day 97,98,99&DAY !OO

2008-05-17T13:07:00.000-07:00

We end our trip in Grand style in Gorgeous Austria. Although we don't see a huge variety of country, and would have loved to have made it to Vienna and some other stops, but in all honesty where we ended up is a favorite of travel guru Rick Steves, you felt as if you could have just unpacked and stayed for a week or more and there would be no need to explore the country further - just enjoy the peace and tranquilty of this hillside village (Hallstatt) surrounded by mountains, and a beautiful lake which was gorgeous. The drive to Hallstatt was stunning as well. We all said it was one of our top picks of Beauty, mixed with culture.

We also met up with Charlotte and Ernie who were visting Ernies homeland along with his relatives from Vancouver Island and the ones hosting in Austria were over the top extraordinary Austrain hospitality with Food and more food, and the Gorgeous settin their home was in . The kids said they LOVE Austria. So did we, even though it was short we felt so welcomed by Ernie and his family and was just a lovely way to end our trip in celebration in a beautiful country,

Till tommorrow ill say good night. from Frankfurt as we await our long travel back to Canada tommor row, which will be Day 100. Addi says that he's going to do a blog, called 100 days at home,. Addi and Natalia are very excited to go home to their friends their bed and most of all their cats.

It's been a dream come true, as Addi says to me when I well up with tears with all of the wonderment we have experienced, 'Mom - are you having another life time dream moment?"

It has been a great experience for all of us and we feel very blessed that we have had this opportunity in our lives, to carry these memoreis the rest of our lives. Thanks for travelling with us, and we look forward to seeing everyone very soon.. We feel blessed also to be returning to such a great country, great friends & family and to Beautiful Vancouver Island, and another quote from Addi is that home is still his favorite place. Isnt that the truth!

Lots of love to all see you soon.............................

The last of Belgium and on to Dynamic Deustchland Day90-96

2008-05-17T10:47:00.000-07:00

Well we finish the last few days in Lovely Brugge(first six pictures from bottom up are Brugge), with our Great friend Val from Ireland who flew over for a few days, and travelled into Germany with us 2 a nights. It was great to be with someone who used to live in the country for 12 years and educated and helped us out with German.

We drove down to the Rhine where we stayed a night in a great place that Val had found, and it was fantastic, with all kinds of exotic birds roaming around in the garden area. There were also 2 workshops going on there so they were a little concerned we might find it odd, but we just laughed for it seemed so normal to us with the different workshops we have taken and assisted at with Clearmind.

It was great fun and a very peacful place to stay. Of course one can't go to Germany without experiencing the traditional Beergardens, we had to stop for a cold one. We went to a lovely village on the way the next day dropping Val off in Frankfurt before we contiued on to Rothenburg and then Fussen.also Borys,s father place of stay after the war in Garmisch - Partenkirchen.

Germany had many qualities of areas of Alberta, in the Prairies as well as the Rockies, very diverse beautiful land scapes from Pastoral to Mountainess, and valleys with beautiful little German/Bavarian styled homes. Germany is so Picturesque.

We Had a very special Occasion to spend while In Germany. It was Addi' 10th Birthday!!! We had picnic and cake and gifts at the bottom of the hill looking up at Neuschwenstein Castle, one of Germanys most famous castles, built by King Ludwig II. Although we did go into this particular castle the next day after leaving beautiful Fussen going to another part of Germany, we did go to his over the top opulent palace (Lindhoff) that he created , and lived there for most of the time as a recluse in all his gold and silver, but not a happy guy.

Germany is a Pretty amazing place, Addi says he like the German & flemish language the best and wants to learn it, Natalias, vote is learning French.

The Romantische strasse(Romantic Road) ended in Fussen and we picked up on to the AlpenStrasse which starts at lake Constanse (Switzerland) and ends in Bertchesgaden (?!) this led us nicely towards Austria. See you there very soon, for the end of the trip..........

High Speed it to Paris day 89-90

2008-05-09T06:55:00.000-07:00

We leave Brugge on the High Speed train and voila we're there in a few hours.

What a city!! For a large City, its a very visually beautiful. We are staying in the area of MontMartre,

very quaint and old Paris close to the Moulin Rouge and the Sacre Coure. I have a little sense of San|Fransisco in different areas, and the senses are alive. Alive with beauty, smells, flowers. and in certain areas pollution."Big City" Big subways" Crazy busy and full subways, but we enjoy our 2 days here.

Starting with Sacre Couer, a beautiful church all lit by candle very beautiful. We stop on the way on a 1800's Merry go Round that transported you back in time with music. My inner child loved this ride, it was quite moving. We ate and saw the sights, and now Spring in Europe is getting Hot, so we all feel the heat in Paris.

Both Addi and Natalia say they like Paris very much, and both are very excited to see and climb the Eiffel Tower, but before we get there , its a stop at the Champs Elysee and witness the Glam and fashion of Paris, noticing a hamburger and fries on a menu passing by in a outdoor cafe for a mere $30.00cdn. Glad most of us our vegeterians , and Addi who isn't said that's too much.

It was a great experience seeing Paris but by the time we leave we're happy to be on the relaxing train back to Brugge and the quiet and noise if you want it, way more laid back, but great memories of Paris. Were all glad we went...........................

Belgium at its Best in Brugge Days 86-87-88-

2008-05-09T05:50:00.000-07:00

We left Holland and drove 2 and half hours to the most beautiful little city. Addi said 'Mom I could actually live here!!'. Its more than a fairy tale with class of Paris and Rome in a small preserved medeviel city that is Unesco heritage. Absolutely beautiful.

Belguim being famous for its Beer and Chocolate, and we have tried both and the vote is YUM!!

We spend time just relaxing here for a week with a two day trip to Paris on the High speed train just staying overnight before returning to beautiful Bruuge. We will give Paris its own Blog and also add pictures again a few days to this site of Brugge for we are not quite finished here.

I'm not quite sure what more I can add to beautiful Brugge , I will let the pictures speak for the Romantic Enigma that exists here that's hard to put into words.

We've simply just enjoyed being here without a ton of doing, just relaxed wandering around conserving energy for Paris. We will add some more pics in a few days or so........................

Fiarytales to anything goes in Holland Day 80-86

2008-05-06T09:10:00.000-07:00

We fly out of Heathrow and land in Amsterdam, and go straight to Edam. As we arrive in Edam we feel like we just stepped into a fairytale with boat canals and the majority of people ride bikes not cars. Things are beyond spring here with the Lilacs and Tulips in full bloom reminding me of a combination of spring on the Island and Alberta, the fragrance and air is alive with rebirth of life everywhere.

I want to thank Geertje for finding this treasure of a place we stayed right on the canal with Martin as our lovely Dutch Host. Geertje is this lovely Dutch woman we met in Ireland while at a Clearmind workshop. We had a great time with her and partner Ric in Edam.

We traveled around to small villages such as Markken and Volendam, and just hung out in the land of cheese and flowers and Bicycles like I have never seen. You can travel from village to village everywhere , its really quite something. This culture knows how to riide bikes too, and no helmuts! They just cruise!! Its very inspiring actually, and if I was rich I would have bought us all Dutch bikes, incredibly made.

Amsterdam was a hoot, no pun intended, the openness of everthing is quite incredible,and yet somehow in the midst of the "coffeshops" and red light district there doesn't seem to be any sense of corruption or feelings of unsafety. From a psychological point a view what we don't give any power perhaps doesn't have a need for crime and corruption.

The canals in Amsterdam and the Van Gogh museum and the style of architecture was for me personally a city I found exciting , the kids were so so with it, I think more to do with at this point in time really wanting the smaller quainter places for we have seen alot. Borys and I loved Amsterdam, and its wild and artisitc edge.

Going to Anne Franks house , was a very moving expiernce, and another thing I love about this city is they stand for Freedom from oppression and repression in a huge way. They really want to achive a way where people make choices based on thinking of the most peaceful way, and what works.

So it's been lovely being here and I thought of my Dutch friends and brother in law while here, - Harri I really understand why you ride your bike everywhere. Mike you will have to bring Kelly and the Girls here someday after the new arrival.

Oh yes, and I cant forget the chickens. We came across some very exotic chickens while in Holland and a lot of people have them for pets as we once did back in Alberta. We have missed them so we made friends with the ones we stayed with at our B&B in Edam.

Bye for now, see you in Belgium and Paris.........................

Taking it easy in England DAys 69 to 79

2008-05-05T10:42:00.000-07:00

We leave Scotland and head for England on the train along the gorgeous rolling countryside ('Virgin' trains - aka Richard Branson) looking out the window at the green hills of England.

We arrive in Manchester where we go to our lovely friend Kates home and stay as we feel so welcomed with her lovely hospitailty. England has been for the most part connecting with friends we have met in Canada and now are priveledged enough to meet up with them in theircountry. Kate and her family and neice are a pleasure to hang out with.

We have a day in Liverpool seeing some of the Beatles stomping grounds, where it all started. Thanks a million to Dave for the 'scouse' tour who is from Liverpool and lovely Kates partner. We also walked around funky Liverpool with Kate and got a little feel for the city of Football (Chelsea has no history) and the Beatles.

Speaking of football I never really got how serious this sport is until actually being in a Liverpoodlian pub and watching this serious serious excitement of the two teams of Chelsea and Liverpool playing, we're talking serious business. Even more serious is the rivalry of Manchester and Liverpool. 2 cities so close together yet worlds apart including soccer and accents. Kate and Dave showed us in spite of the football rivalry and their civic pride towards their respective towns their love is strong.

As we were in the club I was told that I stood 7 people deep to get a beer and a soda , and that was an accomplishment in itself.

After our beautiful visit with Kate, off to London to visit Rebecca. Addi came down with a cold bug and missed the trip to London as he stayed at Rebecca' happily as Natalia and Borys and I hit the big city. Once again our lovely host and friend was so generous with her flat and we loved our time together and meeting Mark. We further understood the game of Footbal(soccer) in all its different leagues of Eurpean and UK, it was a little confusing for this Gal.

Worcester Park where Becks lived was very laid back and quaint and cute area we felt totally relaxed once again having a home base and just relaxing waiting to see Grand Old London. Talk about a lot of people, good thing I was feeling grounded that day, it was really something seeing all the famous sites. It was also where the weather started changing and has stayed warm and bursting spring since then in the next 2 countries soon to follow.

The weather on our entire trip as never allowed for summer clothing yet, except Crete, but we've been there now since London.

Thankyou so much to our friends in England for making our memories much about connection and rest, and lovely sites. Soul food for the weary travelers on their home stretch. Much Gratitude.........................I'm sure we'll be back to see the things we missed, for on this entire trip there is so much to see, that its impossible to do it all, and that its equally as meaningful just connecting with friends..........Natalia and Addi have felt very fond of these memories connecting with friends that were more like Aunties and Uncles , all over the UK and Ireland, and Scotland. Great memories and thank you to all of you that made there time so memorable...........Thanks a ton

See you in a few days for Holland which we loved and Belgium just starting now for a week, and of course coming to our end with Germany and perhaps a sneak peak of Austria?

The rest of Scotland Days 69 -72

2008-04-27T01:09:00.000-07:00

Saying good-bye to the island of Skye, what a place and what a Hostel, thanks again Brian and Lisa, at the amazing SkyeWalker Hostel. "Right on", Sweet! (LOL)

We stop at the Eiliean Donaan Castle , on the way out towards Fort William which is one of the worlds most photographed castles. We didn't go inside this one, we have seen a "LOT" of castles in Scotland. Favorite is Dannator outside of Stonehaven (S of Aberdeen).

From here we head down through the upper highlands into Glencoe with magnificent views of this mysterious historical area. We see the bridge from Harry Potter (@ Glen Finnan), in which Addi is thrilled to have the experience now of seeing the Hogwort school in Edinburgh and the restaurant 'Harry Potter' was wrtiten and now the bridge. He finished the most recent Potter book on this trip in less than a week, and read the one before the week before that, so this was great for him.

We arrive in Sterling where we stay at the Willy Wallace Hostel. How appropriate being this is Bravehearts stomping ground. We go to see the Wallace monument and Sterling Castle as well as the battle field where Robert the Bruce fought at Bannockburn.

We spend a day in Glasgow, which won back a few years ago best European cultural city . There are some lovely buildings in Glasgow and the Glaswegeans are immensely friendly, being that my father is from Glasgow I had to love it, and did. We tried to hook up with some of my relatives, but unfortunately couldn't get a hold of them.

We noticed how old some of the pubs were (mid 1600's) and met two older chaps standing outside the pub that seemed to know more about Canada than we did. That is one thing we have noticed talking to the people of Scotland is that they all have a relative in Canada some where and they also know their History and facts.

We visited a beautiful Cathedral in Glasgow (St. Mungo's - the only Scottish mainland church to suvive the Reformation complete) along with the oldest house in Glasgow. It was a city that deserved more time, which at this point we were running short of.

We took in a KT Tunstall ( a Scot) concert in Galsgow which was fun, for the whole family enjoys her music, and another week later Fiest (a Montrealer) was playing in Edinburgh which would have been nice. She put on a great concert in her homeland.

The last day in Scotland we still had a rental car form our journey to the outer Hebredies so off to Rosslyn chapel (just out of Edinburgh) before coming back to catch a train to start our journey towards England.

The Rosslyn Chapel of course made its most recent claim to fame from the book and movie the Da Vinci Code. But if you look a little further into it, you will find that it has long been a mystical and church with much history (barely escaping the ravages of the reformation). The kids got a quiz to fill out in regards to all the fascinating details/intricacies in the church too numerous to mention (I'll mention a couple - there are over 50 carvings of the 'Green Man' located in all kinds of spots in the church, 2- there is a 'Death Mask' of Robert the Bruce on the church wall, OK, lets do 3- there is a crypt underneath the church that hasn't been accessed in over 300 years where the Templar Knights where laid out in their armor sansa coffin.

Well worth a visit!

Scotland days 57-69 Roots of Magnificent Magical Marvel

2008-04-17T04:23:00.000-07:00

I think this might end up being the longest blog. Before I start I just wanted to say thank you to 'Clearmind Ireland' and the fantastic workshop I felt honoured to be part of.

From the moment that we landed in Edinburough I felt a sense of belonging. Our first few days in this Grand City (Natalia' words) and truly this is the case. We had heard it was beautiful but had no idea. The architecture and lay out of the city was stunning. We hit a cold snap not that Scotland is known for its balmy weather, although for some reason the inspiration that we were all feeling for this city of Grandeur made us feel warm inside.

Harry Potter has its roots in this city with the author writing at a cafe that we visited, called the Elephant House. Later in this blog we will add some more pictures of the train seen from the Harry Potter movies in the Highlands where we head to tomorrow.

From Edinburough we head to Aberdeen where we enjoy a trip outside to Dunnotar castle and the surrounding area.(stunning) The trains are great here and we have enjoyed relaxing and looking out the window at all the beautiful scenery.

From Aberdeen onto beautiful Inverness where we rent a car for the next portion of our journey going to Lochness and onto Findhorn. Addi and Nee Nee loved LochNess and hearing the tales and Findhorn was a place that Borys and I have wanted to go to for about 10 years. What a treat to be there.

Onto the Isle of Lewis (home of Harris Tweed wool) in the outer Hebredies to visit the ancient Standing stones of Callanish and the old blackhouse village where we saw how people lived in the country side of Scotland. The stones were a very special place that we all felt the power of their mystery, and then some. This island has beaches that were nicer than Crete by far with white sand and aquamarine water, you would swear you were in the Caribbean, except for the temperature (lol)

We went to listen to some Music at a hall that we met a great alternative rock band called the Wallbirds, they were among a few bands that we heard. This was a beautiful island and also has a big Presbyterian community that is quite strict with the sabbath for the church goers, it was quite something to watch out of the hostel window in Stornoway, to see people dressed in their Sunday finest heading to church, and nothing is open on Sunday , and you're not allowed to play golf. Or anything really. So we went to our church, "the beach". The Hostels in Scotland totally rule. We have had so much fun meeting people from all over, Scotland seems to be a real destination for nature lovers and History. Which we have been bursting with excitement the whole trip of the scenery history and people.

The Scottish people are over the top friendly with such an authentic way of conversing from the heart, in conversation. We have laughed so much here.

Also another amazing thing is that on these islands the main language in some areas is Gaelic and the schools are Gaelic first and then English. It was their original language in Scotland until the English came in and said there will be no more of that.

Scotland is really an independent place and are moving toward being their own country which in all reality is how it should have been from the get go. Scotland has the Scots which are the Celts that came from primarily Ireland way back when and mixed with Norse and the Picts which all intermingled creating this mixture of celtic blend, of blondes to Dark, to lots of redheads as well. The picts are a tribe they don't know a lot about, but my suspicion is that they were like the first nations people of Scotland.

There is Mystism here that is palapable here in areas that makes me feel my roots from long ago.

Onto at this point I would have to say the highlight up till now of our trip in Scotland was the Isle of Skye. Gee, where to start, first of all known for its beauty and that for sure is the case. It once was a Volcano mixed with Jurassic elements. We are staying at an independednt Hostel called the Skyewalker which is a must for anyone going to Skye, which we choose knowing that the couple that own the place were musicians and love to jam and play. This has been a soulfully rich experience sitting with our new friends in the evening with mountain climbers and hikers singing Scottish Folk songs as well as Irish songs and of course Borys jumping in with some of his diddys. We had so much fun and many laughs with Lisa and Brian(Right On) personal joke. They are outstanding muscians with harmonies from heaven. Beautiful old Scottish folk songs mixed with Irish and there own original music. What a treat!! Oh and Brian harmonica playing rocked!

There have been many beautiful places and countries that we have visited, but we all agreed that this is a place we could actually live.

Spring has sprung on the Isle of Skye and on a lovely sunny spring day we go for the most amazing hike of our trip so far, the scenery is Scotland at its finest.Going for wee donner, which means a wee walk. Natalia lead the way most of the while, and we all had a hard time keeping up. Great hike and the beauty was amazing.

This is almost a diffucult blog to write due to finding words of our experience here. Profound, moving, Joyful and maybe the best word would be inspiring.

Oh yes, the Scottish Beer is most excellent. Aye it is!!!

We will be heading from here to Sterling - the home of William Wallace, and then onto Glasgow to meet my relatives that I have never met, how exciting!!

You will also see Borys and our lovely guest and I having a Celtic night of dressing in our finest.

What an education it has been here with our lovely hosts at Skyewalker hostel where we have learned so much more about Scotlands amazing history and met the finest of fine of Scotlands people right here in Skye where we have invited Lisa and Brian to come to our island, anytime .We hope you take us up on it!

So until Sterling and Glasgow, as they say in Scotland - Cheers, and will add more pictures to this blog at the end of Scotland. Gee, the end of Scotland, we will surely miss it a wee bit here, that's for sure!!! ps pictures are more in order to the write up from the bottom up...........Cheers, and we will see you a wee bit later, Aye!

Ireland in all its Glory Day 43 to 55

2008-04-04T03:18:00.000-07:00

Well, its been a while, we've been busy in Ireland. With me assisting at a workshop in County Clare up in west Ireland and staying gorgeous Doolin.

Lets see where to start in Ireland, we first arrive at our lovely hostess and great friend Valerie, who I will start off by thanking for being an example of the beauty of Ireland and its kind and friendly people. Thanks for hosting all of us and with such ease and Grace, and what fun we had!The kids now have a surrogate Auntie in Ireland who likes to play "certain" games (ask the kids).

We spend some time in Dublin, in all its glory and get a feel for this bustling Irish city.

We head west down to Doolin and the cliffs of Moher which are absolutely stunning. The simplicity of the countryside gets in your bones and the wind refreshes your soul. We love the feeling here, but what best epitomizes Ireland is the people and their playfulness and the "MUSIC" Yeah!!! We had many nights in different pubs listening to the local musicians and watching some of our Iriish friends dance away.

We went to the caves of Aillwee and the Doolin caves which date back millions of years when the island was being formed.

We went to a ancient ring fort of Caherconnell, which was constructed as early as 500AD, then onto Poulnabrone Dolmen, a burial site dating to 3500BC.

Ireland was this place where for the most part it didn't matter what we did in actuality it was just the feeling of being there with the People and the land, and the just watching out the window and this countryside that makes you feel alive.

Also the hill of Tara, and the gorgeous cemetary. The hill of Tara was the center for the ancient Irish kings, and the site where St. Patrick lit a fire in his conquest against the Pagans.

We went to the Castle fo Trim, where Braveheart was primarily filmed, (it was filmed in Ireland and Scotland. It makes sense though since there was and is that connection with Irish and Scottish.

We have loved being here, and has been a great Celtic catalyst to carry us onto Scotland, already feeling my celtic roots that feel alive with the Irish.

I know we will be back to explore more in this beautiful land, of the fairys, and green hills, and fields and the Irish sea, and the Atlantic, but we feel just bye for now. I wish I could say something in Irish to sign off with, for it has been really amzing to see Irish Gaelic written on all the signs.

Val remind me again how you say cheers in Irish, will you now?

-Slainte!!

So its been great "craic" in Ireland , which means great fun! and we have been happy as Larry here!!

day 32 to 42 in Crete

2008-03-21T21:44:00.000-07:00

Well here we are in Crete, where we have had a holiday from the holiday in our lovely villa, in the mountain of Myrthios looking over Plakias. We couldn't be happier with the area that we chose here. Overlooking the Meditereanean and gorgeous mountain views everywhere you look.

To all our permaculture and wildcrafting friends, this is an absolute paradise as far as wild edibles growing everywhere. Natalia all on her own has learned to tell the difference from a wild oregeno bush and one that looks very similar just by the shape of the leaves, the oregeno are a little flatter.

The nature has refilled our bodies for the next half and a bit of our journey. For as much as we love the arts and history we love nature equally, and the terraine of this land is ancient and rich.

Our really first day venturing to far from home base took us to a beautiful ancient Monastery of Prevali, where a few monks make their home in this serene peaceful place, filling their days making beeswax candles and incense from the 1500 diiferent types of flowers that grow wild here.

Onto a hike to a beach that you basically walk on a goat trail to get to. Speak of goats they are eveywhere as well as sheep. The bells you hear in the mountain in the morning is the most beautiful sound. We have even seen some sheppards with their original clothing of times gone past in Crete. (back to the walk to this deserted beach on the goat trail. We get down to the beach and first thing we see is a guy that looks like Tom Hanks out of Castaway , kind of looking like he lives here. Well, he does. A German man that left Germany years ago to travel around the world and live naturally giving up all of his worldy possesions, and living from the earth. What a character!! As we sat and talk though he was most inteligent interesting man, who travels to different places looking to learn from the shamans of the lands. Apprently in Crete which I sensed there is a lot of mystical healers and people that are drawn here to live this way.

He lived in a cave since December, and fishes, and wildcrafting to get his greens. He had a chicken and 2 cats that found him, and they are his companion on this beach. Addi and Natalia were a little taken back when he decieded he was getting too hot, and has zero problem with nudity, and took his shirt off to sit and chat a little longer with us (lol)

He kind of went back to his daily routine as we sat on the beach , burying Addi in the sand. He came over with the chicken and said do you want a picture?, and of course this was one of the many shots Borys was hoping for. We've unfortunelty missed a few brilliant characters in Greece we would have loved to have pictures from.

Our days for filled with lots of olive oil which we purchased that huge bottle for 5 euros, and lots of olives feta, and halva. Evening coffes with Metaxa brandy, and their wild honey which I have never tasted honey like this in my life, wild flower is an understatement.

We went on quite an adventurous hike and ended up a little off of the beaten path, and had to find our way back, ended up being a 4 hour hike, that we all felt proud of, some of the obstacles we had to get through to get back down.

We went to the city of Rethymnon one day to the old city, but both agrre for us Greece is about the countryside the Greek Cities didn't do much for us. On our way back we stopped at an ancient grave site of the Minoans which dated back to 1200 BC, the 1st civilization in Europe. Man thats old!

We would love to come back again and take in some more of the Island another trip, with some more history, but we were quite content to go at a Mediteranean pace here, and eat sleep and be in nature.

Addi has been homesick for his cats, but interestingly enough this entire trip we could have a blog of the cats of the mediterranean. One that has taken residency with us here in Crete, the kids call him Rubba. Addison, hs started to pick up guitar on the trip, and lots of animated film ideas, is favorite passtime at home. Natalia said she hasn't really missed home, just her friends, that she loves travelling. She is most excited for us in Scotland, it must be her Celtic blood, starting to boil as mine, as we get ready to leave for Ireland tomorrow, and then Scotland. I believe if I'm right (Mom) my great grandmother on my mothers side is from Ireland and then both of my parents origins going back as far as they know are Scottish, I'm excited for the children to feel their roots. Natalia has practiced her sword dance on the trip , so I hope to get her on film in Scotalnd doing her highland dance.

That's it for now, hope you enjoy Crete and we will see you in Ireland!!!

Welcome to Greece Day 29 to 32

2008-03-16T02:04:00.000-07:00

We arrive in Rhodes, Greece, and Italy already feels like a dream behind us. We stay in the Old City of Rhodes which is very ancient where some of the first crusaders came in, so they built this walled city.

The stoned streets, and the atmosphere feels quite different from the rest of the Mediterranean countries we have traveled the past 5 weeks.

Our first taste of Greece is this little family pub that made the best Greek food. We indulge in homemade Pita and Greek salads and the children had a variety of different things including some classic foods the children like.

We meet an Austrailean Greek in the pub ( The Walk Inn) as well as a Texan women who live here now. He shares that while renovating his house and digging into the foundation he digs right into ancient Byzantine walls, that is a common scenario when building in the old city, for there is basically another city under the ground of this city (or more).

One afternoon we went to a public baths of Turkish origin, the building of which no one knows the date of origin and bathed as people did and still do - very relaxing - an element that should be re/introduced into Western society.

We spend our few days here seeing the things we came specifically to Rhodes for, the old City and then to Lindos to see the Acropolis of Athena, and then onto another ancient city (Kameiros) - there are 3 sites on island that predate BC, where the ruins were of an ancient City left in enough of an assembly to actually feel and picture this ancient civilization that lived and work and played here. Truly wonderous, we all enjoyed the ruins Of Rhodes.

We hit a few deserted beaches in our travels and saw olive orchards everywhere, as we have seen a lot in the Medateranean since Spain, but somehow Greek olive orchards have this incredible ancientness to them. Certainly many beautiful sites and the ocean is the most gorgeous deep blue, that epitomizes the Meditteranean.

Now the people of Rhodes we couldn't quite figure, they look at you with little expression and at times suspiciously, perhaps even curiosity.

The plane ride leaving Rhodes to Crete, or should we say our flight that got canceled and then we waited on standby for the rest of the day to see if we get onto another plane was a cross between a comedy and horrror show. At one point the disorganization and laid back attitude of 'don't bother us', or each person you spoke to told you something different was a test of patience.

At one point Borys and I started singing the Beatles 'all you need is love' just to remind ourselves that there are all kinds of people in this world with different ways even if its not to our liking. All we could do after a while was laugh about it all.

This island was a cross between the good(Gorgeous place and not so Gorgeous), the bad and the ugly, but in the end loved it, but looking forward to Crete, for the Cretians are supposed to be the friendliest in Greece.

part 2 of the rest of Italy

2008-03-14T08:56:00.000-07:00

So here we are again with the finale of Italy, capturing the home of Pinochio and pictures from St. Peters and Michealangelo, and a rather Roman looking waiter.
Previously, on our way to Bagnoregio de Civitia we stopped at some Thermal baths basically in the middle of nowhere. This was free and much hotter than the one in Tuscany.

Onto Civitia the Hillside City I mentioned , built out of volcanic rock (tufu) totally amazing, and then onto Rome.

Rome, we captured a few of the locals in fine Roman Itlian style. Our Pension that we stayed at was quite Roman as well much different than Northeren Italy in Cinque Terra and Tuscany, sculpted bushes, fountains, sculptures etc. With our host very nice and very Roman Catholic strict bedtime rules. I think we were all laughing and having a good time when we were informed "Tutti" meaning 'enough' or 'the end'. He even pressed a little buzzer from downstairs to inform us that it was sleeping time.

All too great, we have had many funny cultural memories along the way.

the rest of Italy DAY 23 24 25 26, 27 28 29

2008-03-11T03:37:00.000-07:00

We absolutey fell in love with Tuscany!! So much that we let go of Florence and just enjoyed staying in the country and going to Sienna for half a day that has equally as good of arts to see.

After Sienna we just enjoyed staying in our villa and the gorgeous countryside of Tuscany. Each window we looked out of was like a painting and Natalia and Addi both agreed it was like a fairytale.

Stopped at Pisa on the way to Sienna to see the only real interest there the leaning Tower of Pisa course.

In my last blog I had mentioned that Borys and I and kids just love Italy , well it stayed true for the entire trip. We actually said that if we were to live in Europe, Tuscany felt like a place in the beautiful country that you could easily enjoy. Also Portugal' countryside as well, and land that felt so comfortable.

Although the realtly is that Europe is extremly expensive, so we are rarely eating out, or doing costly tours.We really got soaked (literally)in Italy at the thermo baths, basically Hot springs, but 75 CDN for all of us.

We did a day trip from Tuscany to Assisi where we visted the famous cathedral where St. Francis has layed to rest for over 600 years. There was a real sacredness of this particular place, as you could see many nuns and Catholics making the pilgrimage from all over the world to see St. Francis. Even while I was in India they spoke of this enlightned man. Also another site that had this feeling was St. Catherine of Sienna while we were there, she was one of the first women who's voice was heard by the primarly partriarchal Cathlolic organization. Both of these individuals really stood for change.

Onto Rome..........What can one say, there are almost no words to describe such a City!!! Every corner we turned there was yet another spectacular ancient site.

The Basilica was the one that really blew us all away. The Vatican City really is a city. In the Basillica you feel like a very small little ant, It is Huge!! You can fit 90.ooo people in it.

The first thing we see when we arrive in the Baslicca is Michealangelo' famous sculpture of Mary holding Jesus dead in her arms. It really had a moving energy while looking at it, very life like, and regardless of religious/spirtual you feel the loss of a child within this Mother.

We went to the Forum ancient ruines as well as the famous Pantheon (only wholly intact building in it's entirety) where the picture of the doors were over 200o year old and granite pillars brought over from Eygpt , how did they do this? Talk about man power.

The pictures start with Tuscany then onto Assisi, ending in Rome. Addi said he liked Rome the best of anywhere we went, especially the Basillica. We all liked Italy the best, the Italian culture is unto its self. Spain running close 2nd though, hard call!! oh there closing right now, back in few hours for the rest of the pictures.................see you after Greece nap time........to be cont....in Rome

ok im back, but not for long due to snail mail in Rhodes Greece, and crazy hours. Finish the rest of Italy in a few days, I also forgot the incrediable hillside village carved out of the rock in the mountain where about 15 people still live there. It is called Civita, just outside of Orvietto.Absoulutely amazing, but high up so a very cold day.

Thanks Andrea so much for some of your suggestions of Italy, you were right it really was a must see in Civita.

So were leaving off at Assisi and Civita and Rome and Greece yet to come.... Zeasou (which means goodbye in Greek..............

Day18,19,20,21,22,

2008-03-03T01:09:00.000-08:00

Our introduction leading into Italy was by passing the gorgeous sites of Cannes and Nice France, into bustling flavourful Ventimiglia and Bordighera Italy. Our blood started to boil with excitement, and everyone started feeling happy with the flavor of Italy's passion all around us.

Picture this the first thing we see is some beautiful high fashion Italian woman in these high heeled boots dressed to the nines getting off a scooter. The next thing we see dodging traffic is some monk coming ut of an espresso bar, just priceless.

We drive to our destination Levanto just outside of Terra Cinque, where we stay at our hosts Fernando and Leaha B&B where he owns a olive orchard and and lemon and oranges. He makes his own wine and olive oil. This area is soft and humble Italy where you feel Italys in its most authentic state of times gone past with the modern twist.

We are in Love absolute Love and this is Sandy' dreams next to Gaudi in Spain, and we both agree that Italy has that feel to Spain where you just cant get enough. Although Italy is a place where you would like to just savor it for along time, another country like Spain we will come back and do all on its own

The Northern Italians are so warm and friendly full of life and passion and expression.

We roam around Levanto , and take it all in .

Then we spend the next few days taking the train to all of Cinque Terras 5 hillside villages its most famous for on the Italin Mediterranean Italian Riveria where these villages are hundereds and hundreds of years olds nestled into the mountain.

Each one like something you cant even imangine in your best dream. There is one in particular that Borys and I fall in Love with called Conrniglia, that you have to climb 370 steps to get to the top.

Rick Steves travel "Guru" book coins these villages as the most beautiful place in Italy and we couldnt agree, more. im not sure if Ive ever seen more picturesque visual wonder, nature and people co creating at its best...magnifco!!!You can hike between all these towns which we would have done , but the rain they have been having has made it a little wet, and the children have been doing a lot of walking daily with little hikes that add up to a fair bit daily

At this time of year there is hardly any of tourists for most people start coming in hordes in July and August. You also have to deal with the heat in the Meditereamnean at this time usually 4o is the average. We thought we would like our travels a little bit warmer than they,ve been buts its perfect for the children.....Sandy on the other hand could take May or June where its a constant 25 to 30.

Our last day we spend on the most exquisite hike, and today is quite warm , shorts weather, and it couldn't have been more beautiful. Natalia, leads the way as usual at a good clip, noticing the wild mint and lemon balm along the way. Out little naturalist botanist. natalia said she could have hiked here forever, and could feel the nature fairies all aound her. Addi chomps on grass ends along the way, and we're all feeling in heaven, and wished we had a long time here.

We're sad to leave this area, but excited to go today to Tuscany where we stay outside of Sienna for a few days to see Florence and Pisa, then onto ROME!!!! AHHHHH

day17 St. Marie de la Mer

2008-02-26T22:53:00.000-08:00

Today we drove to St, Marie de la Mer, where we drove through the Rhone river delta to get there. This seaside town is where a church is that is tributed to Mary Magdeline, with her escape from the Romans where she came to be.

We leave for Italy today, so the area of Cinque Terra is more remote, and might have difficulty finding internet, see you in a while........Can't wait for Italy........Au revoir France, see you again in Paris!

Day16 Les Baux

2008-02-26T22:19:00.000-08:00

We travelled a short distance today from our B&B to Les Baux, to France,s most famous chateau. It really captures the French country side from the top looking out of some of the limestone caves. The French are more reserved in this area and ther is language barrier as well.

Then onto St. Remy de Provence. Beautiful Town , and I must say my favorite french Town so far, although Spring will lend itself more to the magnificnet colors that happen in France, were not quite there yet, with the blooming of Lavender, and there gorgeous sycamore trees that one can only imangine. Glad were going to Paris in the Spring to see the brilliant colors.

Before getting to St. Remy we stopped at Van Goghs "spa" St. Paul de Mausole that he stayed at for a while, another name during these times was insane aslyum. He suffered from depression amongst other things, and this is where he would look out froim his room and paint some of his most famous paintings in the gorgeous gardens there, as well as the country side.

Borys and I were wondering what the prerequisite was for staying there was, for it is most beautiful.

We saw his room where he painted from, which left you with kind of a little piece of the feeling of this most amazing artist. Natalia and Addison have enjoyed learning about him form our host who is quite the history buff on Van Gogh amongst other artists.

They have learned the names of a lot of his paintings, which is really neat.

In St. Remy we stopped at the birth place of Nostradamous. Some great history today.............

day15 VAN GOGH

2008-02-26T21:53:00.000-08:00

Today we went to the town of Arles, where we saw the cafe made famous by Van Gogh from one of his most famous paintings Terrace of Cafe at night 1883.

We wondered the streets of this small city, and stopped for a Cafe au lait and one pop and it was over $10 Cdn, France is very$$$$$

We have made friends with a lovely man that we made friends that day in the bar where he took us to his home to meet his lovely wife and 2 children. They have travelled to Canada , west coast, Jasper and Banff and loved it!!

So far we have just been taking it a relaxing pace in our countryside B&B in France. Just eating drinking local wine.......Ces't Bon

day 14 Arles/the sense are alive!!

2008-02-23T13:45:00.000-08:00

Who said the french aren't friendly, they certainly are in Provence, especially if they know your from Canada. We went to the most amazing farmers market in Arles, where I have never seen produce and fromage (cheese) like this. Then we really met France, while being told to go to a tabac to get a phone card, this landed us in a local bar/restauraunt. One of the gentleman overheard us speaking English and befriended us before you know it we were getting free hats and sunglasses for the kids and being bought an aperatif a common french drink called pastisse.

Everyone was so friendly, what an introduction to the senses from Van Gogh to fresh produce and cheese and lavender and fresh cut flowers, and a local bar.......ooh la la.

Nicola, you asked if we're only going to eat raw in France - are you kidding! who can resist the cheese and baguettes to go with the chateau neuf du "paupe"? or Cote du Rhone (excuse my french spelling.)

We added a few shots of the house, Addi opted out of our excursion out into Arles to stay w/our lovely hosts.

day13 onto France

2008-02-23T12:20:00.000-08:00

A couple of hours from Barcelona and we're in France...........ooh la la!!! Starting with Carcosonne the most well preserved medieval castle in Europe.

Then off to our 3oo year old B&B in Provence next to Arles, home to Van Gogh' most prolific period of painting and where he lived for a while.

I think we set the bar high in France for Addi and Natalia love this place!!! Actually Natalia is saying France is her favorite country so far! This was the one splurge we had on accomodations for it just seemed like the place to do it, the land of plenty, and rich in the senses. The art the smells the food the wine etc. etc.

day12/Barcelona

2008-02-22T22:50:00.000-08:00

ok, this blog I'm taking over. For many years now one of my main reasons for wanting to go to Europe was to see the works of Antoni Gaudi. Well the first thing we see when getting off the train was one of architectural wonders (la Pedrera).

We then found ourselves looking around this massive bustling city of wonder, wondering which way to go, to find more Gaudi. Well it took all of a few minutes to see a bus stop where you catch a self paced kind of tour bus ( 3 different runs that you can get off and on at your own discretion/pace) of Barcelona.

The first stop - the living architectural wonder Gaudi Temple of Sigrada Famalia. This is the most amazing thing i have ever seen and experienced, and believe me it is a experience that you feel.

This temple has been in progress since the late 1800s when this visionarys ideas all came from nature inspired, so the shapes in his works are so sureal. People just stand around with their mouths open in awe. Its like another planet. We stood in a line for at least an hour to go to the top and it was worth every moment. The kids even loved this one, for they were starting to get a little 'castled' out.

Its like your mind is being over circuited and your heart is pounding in awe at the same time.

Borys and I and the children were gobsmacked.

We also went onto to see one of his early century apartment La Pedrera that was once again something out of enlightened science fiction from another world.

After being sad to know our hours in the day of Barcelona were running out and there was still so much more Gaudi to see, but one day for Addi and Natalia in Barcelona was enough, so we just made a pact that we wiil come back and spend a week in this great City (and maybe catch a futbol match) .

We also went to the 4 gats cafe where Picasso use to hang out at, so that was rather cool.

I loved every second of Spain and see why Gaudi' temple still continues on with his vision, for the people of the country have passion and pride to carry the torch . It probably wont be done till Natalia and Addis kids are grown. We talked while travelling in the car to maybe continue this journey with there kids, and they would remember it when they were 8&9. This made me cry just talking about it as we drove out of Spain .

So the plan is in 4 years when I turn 50 we will return to Spain and do a complete tour of this magnificent country. Who's coming?? Open invitation, Seville, Ronda, Barcelona .........sigh.

DAY 11

2008-02-22T22:09:00.000-08:00

just before I start the blog i just wanted to let you know that our personal emails have been bouncing , and most are not making it to you, so we hope that will correct its self if not, hey at least the blog is working yeah!!

We arrived in Sitges last night to our Pension. Sitges is a nice place right on the Ocean with a very upbeat friendly atmosphere. We had a down day and enjoyed watching all the local buisnesses shut down for a siesta from 2 to 5pm. Then everyone comes alive at night shopping and cafes, taking strolls all decked out there gorgeous fashions conversing and being alive!

Its been a great place just to relax and watch the spanish in there daily lives.

day 10

2008-02-20T07:35:00.000-08:00

Every trip has its adversities. We arrived in Granada to our hostel - a very nice hostel - marble staircase etc. it just so happened that our floor was almost entirely booked with a school group (14-16 yr olds) that showed up at the time we were about to go to sleep! Not much sleep needless to say, not inclyding a surreal 5 second flamenco singer/guitarist in the middle of the night.

Granada is a beautiful university city and most famous for the Alhambra. It is most spectacular although the most heavily trafficked/touristy place with unclear time parameters as to when you have to enter certain areas in the complex which some we missed and weren't allowed into although we PAID FOR IT!!! Beware when you go , we'll try to coach you on what to do.

Day 9

2008-02-20T07:11:00.000-08:00

Day 8's last pic's on the blog, Neenee, Cartajima rooftops, surrounded by beautiful age old hillsides - a magical place to stay.

This set of pics; Rhonda is certainly every bit as beautiful as people say where romantis poets have lived to inspired by their writings. We walked over the bridge that crosses the gorge and saw Moorish buildings mixed with Christian influence.

day 8

2008-02-17T23:30:00.000-08:00

a good day to leave Albufeira -heavy winds and rain - for Seville!

In Sandy' words 'At at this point definitely the most beautiful city I have seen'. Georgeous as if somone had archites=cturally planned eveything over the centuries. Went to the Seville cathedral, it made Sandy cry - the largest gothic church in the world/ 3rd in Europe. Every inch of the church had some marvel to behold - wooden carved housing for the organ, silver and gold alter, walls adornedwith paintings from artists over many centuries. The churchs origins date from the 1100's until it was "Christianized" 150 yrs later.

On to Ronda tommorrow, overnighting in Cartijema - an amazing centuries old village, the hostel dates back 100's of years and its doorstep originates from a piece of Roman column, and last but not least our hosts at the hostel 'El Refugio' - Botz and Peter adding charm, laughs and insights to our journey

Day7

2008-02-16T03:11:00.000-08:00

Day 7 can't believe a week has gone by. I think these 3 months is going to fly by and you have to pick and choose in each country the things you want to do in order get a good feel for the country.

We really felt Portugal and are having a down day before leaving tomorrow for Spain and Possibly Gelbraltar. Hard to believe that Morrocco is a 4 hour ferry ride from here and you r in Africa. Another trip, we have loved Portugal and its people......

Here's a little idea of the citrus here. Fishing boat was from Portimao harbour yesterdays beach.

Day 6

2008-02-15T12:00:00.000-08:00

portugal has an abundence of beachs and then some. all gorges.

today we beach hopped.

it is spring here and the oranges and lemons are ready to pick every were! yum yum.

mild and warm here not hot until later in the season summer is 35 in the shade.

typed by addison olijnyk!!!!!

Day 5

2008-02-15T11:36:00.000-08:00

What didn't we do today. Our favourite place so far, incredibly beautiful village of Silves where we shared birthday cake and great Portuegese coffee called 'bika'(?).

Then went to Maria' favorite place called Salema (close 2nd for Sandy). Georgeous, natural fishing village.

Lagos - most spectacular views yet, epitomizes what one thinks of Portugal.

Day 4

2008-02-15T11:23:00.000-08:00

Albufeira, Portugal

More touristy but a great home base at Elizabeth' condo with a gourgeous view of town/bay.

Day 3

2008-02-13T05:19:00.000-08:00

Went to a sacred site that dates before Egyptian times. The picture posted is the Moon temple (masculine energy) - the other, called the Sun temple (feminine) the energy felt there was incredible as well ws the hike through the forest to get there.

Sad to be leaving the area and our friend Marillia, an area that deserves much more time to explore and enjoy - we'll be back.
Leave for the south of Portugal - the Algarve in our funky Peugeout Partner.

Day 2

2008-02-13T05:04:00.000-08:00

ps Last day we visited the continents most westerly point (NW of Lisbon)

Town of Sintra and area - saw a Moorish castle dating from 9th century and Palace de Pena (mid 1800's fantasial creation. The villages in the surrounding area of Lisbon are beautiful and quaint, the people have a beautiful energy about them - 1st and foremost our host Marillia.

Day1

2008-02-13T04:55:00.000-08:00

Access to hot spots tenuous so our downloads will be sporadic.
Lisbon -Geronimos Monastery world heritage site (500 yrs old) beyond beautiful, minutes after getting off the plane.

1st download

2008-02-06T12:23:00.000-08:00

shoes are waterproofed!

4 days to go!

2008-02-05T15:08:00.000-08:00

Just doing a test