Sat 23 Aug- after an early breakfast buffet, we joined the city tour departing at 8 am. We went first to the Castle, and into St. Vitus Cathedral to admire the huge gothic architecture and stained glass windows. The windows had been destroyed during WWII, but were replaced with windows created by famous Czech artists. They are beautiful with the sun shining in on them. There are a lot of very noteworthy objects of art and history in the cathedral, and it's jam-packed with tourists.
We decided to go off on our own to visit the Palace garden and the Belvedere garden. It was windy and cool, 17-18C, so the sun felt good when it came out. The garden was nice, but more of a park and not so much flowers.
We then walked over to the Schwarzenbersky Palace to see the collection of old masters 'Baroque in Bohemia', which consisted of sculpture and art from the Baroque period. It was quite impressive to see the different styles, mostly of a religious nature.
After the palace, we were getting tired and hungry, so we stopped by a restaurant on Nerudova St. for a draft beer (Budweiser), salad and mixed grill (three different grilled meats: beef, chicken, pork, with sausage added for good measure). We split the salad and grill, and left rested, full and refreshed. Total was CZK 500 ($30).
We continued down Nerudova, past St. Nicholas Church, down Mostecka St. to Karluv most (the famous Charles Bridge) and into Old Town. Kiyomi stopped by several jewelry and Czech glass stores. At the Staromestske nam (town square) we had a coffee, then went to a combined exhibition of Salvador Dali and Alfons Mucha. Stan was familiar with Dali from college days, and also the Oceania cruise featured many works by Dali for exhibition and sale. Rick Steves recommended Alfons Mucha as a very enjoyable native Czech artist, the one who is famous for starting the Art Nouveau style. Both exhibitions were quite extensive and very impressive.
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Fri 22 Aug- National Museum, GCT Cruise
Fri 22 Aug- after breakfast buffet and watching some of the Olympics, we packed and got ready to leave our home for the past week. We checked into the Dorint Don Giovanni, our Grand Circle Travel (GCT) starting point. Our room is much smaller, only one room, one bathroom/toilet area, no terrace or veranda.
Fortunately all our registration was in order for the cruise, much to our relief. We settled into our room, relaxed a bit, then took the Metro to the National Museum (http://www.nm.cz), famous for its architecture and interior, since it used to be a palace. Many of the floors are a fine mosaic, many of the ceilings are painted, as are many of the walls. The grand staircase is impressive. The Pantheon is filled with statues of famous Czech historical figures we'd never heard of, but the room is magnificent. The museum houses exhibits of mineralogy, zoology, anthropology and paleontology. The exhibits are interesting, especially the history of the Czech area since billions of years ago. After the museum, we walked a way down Wenceslas Square (yes, the good king of the Christmas carol was a ruler, but not a king, of Prague), the ground zero of the Czech revolution in 1989. They call it Vaclavske nam., with several accents on the vowels. We then decided to walk back to the hotel so we could see the scenery and stop by interesting stores. It was a long walk, but interesting from an architectural point of view. Many of the facades were very ornate and beautiful.
At 6:30 we officially started our GCT adventure with a welcome drink, briefing, and welcome dinner buffet.
Fortunately all our registration was in order for the cruise, much to our relief. We settled into our room, relaxed a bit, then took the Metro to the National Museum (http://www.nm.cz), famous for its architecture and interior, since it used to be a palace. Many of the floors are a fine mosaic, many of the ceilings are painted, as are many of the walls. The grand staircase is impressive. The Pantheon is filled with statues of famous Czech historical figures we'd never heard of, but the room is magnificent. The museum houses exhibits of mineralogy, zoology, anthropology and paleontology. The exhibits are interesting, especially the history of the Czech area since billions of years ago. After the museum, we walked a way down Wenceslas Square (yes, the good king of the Christmas carol was a ruler, but not a king, of Prague), the ground zero of the Czech revolution in 1989. They call it Vaclavske nam., with several accents on the vowels. We then decided to walk back to the hotel so we could see the scenery and stop by interesting stores. It was a long walk, but interesting from an architectural point of view. Many of the facades were very ornate and beautiful.
At 6:30 we officially started our GCT adventure with a welcome drink, briefing, and welcome dinner buffet.
Thu 21 Aug- Hotel Praha
Thu 21 Aug- after breakfast buffet and watching some of the Olympics, back to work for Kiyomi, and reading/iPod music for Stan.
For lunch we had the hotel's 'Gnocchi with Fungi Sauce' entree. It was very good, but also very rich with the cheese and sauce.
After an evening stroll, admiring the architecture of the neighborhood and wondering about how the people endured the Nazi and then Communist occupation and enforced socialism. Some of the building look like they are still suffering from the rigors of the Cold War days, but many have but many have been renovated and look very nice.
For lunch we had the hotel's 'Gnocchi with Fungi Sauce' entree. It was very good, but also very rich with the cheese and sauce.
After an evening stroll, admiring the architecture of the neighborhood and wondering about how the people endured the Nazi and then Communist occupation and enforced socialism. Some of the building look like they are still suffering from the rigors of the Cold War days, but many have but many have been renovated and look very nice.
Wed 20 Aug- more Japanese food
Wed 20 Aug- after breakfast buffet and watching some of the Olympics, back to work for Kiyomi, and reading/iPod music for Stan.
It was a pleasant day, not cold or hot, with a nice breeze, so we headed for the Restaurant Sakura again, Kiyomi repeated her last order of 'Chuka Wakame' Chinese-style wakame salad), 'Masakan Bihun' (white rice noodles with shrimp and vegetables); but Stan had Kung-Pao Chicken and Peking Soup, with rice. Again, it was very good Japanese and Chinese cooking.
For the evening meal we split a half-liter beer and ate some chocolate (this is the gourmet chocolate from France that we got at the Bovetti factory in Terrason - we're still working on it!).
It was a pleasant day, not cold or hot, with a nice breeze, so we headed for the Restaurant Sakura again, Kiyomi repeated her last order of 'Chuka Wakame' Chinese-style wakame salad), 'Masakan Bihun' (white rice noodles with shrimp and vegetables); but Stan had Kung-Pao Chicken and Peking Soup, with rice. Again, it was very good Japanese and Chinese cooking.
For the evening meal we split a half-liter beer and ate some chocolate (this is the gourmet chocolate from France that we got at the Bovetti factory in Terrason - we're still working on it!).
Tue 19 Aug- Hotel Praha
Tue 19 Aug- after breakfast buffet and watching some of the Olympics, back to work for Kiyomi, and reading/iPod music for Stan, who finished Vector and started 'The Bourne Betrayal' written by Eric Van Lustbader but based on the Jason Bourne created by Robert Ludlum.
For lunch, we checked the weather and it was too hot to walk far, so downstairs we went for the Gratinated Lasagna entree. It was good but very filling.
Later in the evening after it cooled down, we walked around the very extensive hotel grounds, then split a half-liter of draft beer, watched more Olympics.
For lunch, we checked the weather and it was too hot to walk far, so downstairs we went for the Gratinated Lasagna entree. It was good but very filling.
Later in the evening after it cooled down, we walked around the very extensive hotel grounds, then split a half-liter of draft beer, watched more Olympics.
Mon 18 Aug- Japanese food in Prague!
Mon 18 Aug- after breakfast buffet and watching some of the Olympics, back to work for Kiyomi, and reading/iPod music for Stan. Today for exercise we walked down the commercial center at Dejvice, and while there, saw a Japanese restaurant named Sakura, Kiyomi could not resist trying it, so instead of Czech cuisine, we had Stella Artois draft beer, 'Chuka Wakame' Chinese-style wakame salad), 'Masakan Bihun' (white rice noodles with shrimp and vegetables), butterfly fried shrimp, rice (finally real Japanese rice!), and espresso to finish off. Total cost was CZK 643. Then more exercise walking back to the hotel, finding our way through the back streets rather than the busy main road.
The evening had a nice sunset, illuminating the castle, so I took several pictures of the castle, the hotel, and our rooms. We have a sitting room for watching TV on a big plasma screen, a bedroom with king bed and a smaller plasma TV, an arm chair and a desk. The glass door opens to a large terrace with a nice view of trees and Prague in the distance.
The evening had a nice sunset, illuminating the castle, so I took several pictures of the castle, the hotel, and our rooms. We have a sitting room for watching TV on a big plasma screen, a bedroom with king bed and a smaller plasma TV, an arm chair and a desk. The glass door opens to a large terrace with a nice view of trees and Prague in the distance.
Sun 17 Aug-
Sun 17 Aug- after breakfast buffet and watching some of the Olympics, back to work for Kiyomi, and reading/iPod music for Stan.
Today it was traditional Pork Schnitzel as the entree, very good, like pork roast with dumplings.
We took a nice walk after lunch to settle the somewhat heavy Czech food.
Today it was traditional Pork Schnitzel as the entree, very good, like pork roast with dumplings.
We took a nice walk after lunch to settle the somewhat heavy Czech food.
Sat 16 Aug- Hotel Praha
http://stanhutchings.blogspot.com/ (this information as a blog)
http://hutchings.smugmug.com/ (photos)
Sat 16 Aug- after the breakfast buffet, Kiyomi started work on her report for the Japan e-Learning Consortium, and Stan started reading 'Vector' by Robin Cook while enjoying music on the iPod. It's another rainy day in Prague, so we have a good excuse to stay inside and work/relax. This will be a relaxing week of catching up on planning for the rest of our trip, unwinding from the river cruise, and enjoying the ambience of this very comfortable hotel and quiet old neighborhood.
Lunch at the hotel restaurant is not really cheap at about CZK 700 for the both of us ($42), but it's fairly priced for the service, quality, quantity and ambience, overlooking Prague and the Castle/St. Vitus Cathedral, and is also very convenient. So we decided to go through the menu, starting with the Czech Traditional meals, then the pastas. We'll also each have a 0.31 liter draft Pilsner Urquell, and split the entree and a Nicoise or Caesar salad between us. Since breakfast is included, we'll eat later, around 2 pm, and then have a very light supper of a draft beer and fruit or chocolate. We've already had Roasted Bohemian Duck; then broccoli soup and Prague goulash in a bread loaf; then today it's Prague Goulash (like beef stew).
http://hutchings.smugmug.com/ (photos)
Sat 16 Aug- after the breakfast buffet, Kiyomi started work on her report for the Japan e-Learning Consortium, and Stan started reading 'Vector' by Robin Cook while enjoying music on the iPod. It's another rainy day in Prague, so we have a good excuse to stay inside and work/relax. This will be a relaxing week of catching up on planning for the rest of our trip, unwinding from the river cruise, and enjoying the ambience of this very comfortable hotel and quiet old neighborhood.
Lunch at the hotel restaurant is not really cheap at about CZK 700 for the both of us ($42), but it's fairly priced for the service, quality, quantity and ambience, overlooking Prague and the Castle/St. Vitus Cathedral, and is also very convenient. So we decided to go through the menu, starting with the Czech Traditional meals, then the pastas. We'll also each have a 0.31 liter draft Pilsner Urquell, and split the entree and a Nicoise or Caesar salad between us. Since breakfast is included, we'll eat later, around 2 pm, and then have a very light supper of a draft beer and fruit or chocolate. We've already had Roasted Bohemian Duck; then broccoli soup and Prague goulash in a bread loaf; then today it's Prague Goulash (like beef stew).
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Fri 15 Aug- planning for the future travels
Fri 15 Aug- a rainy day in Prague. We worked on our upcoming itinerary. Today it's raining, according to the weather report, a lot of Europe is having severe storm conditions. So after a nice buffet breakfast in the hotel, we're back in the room catching up on email and planning the rest of our trip.
It seems too soon to be planning the last few weeks, but it's only a few months from now. Today we pretty much settled our transfer from Budapest after our GCT river cruise to Rijeka, Croatia where we'll stay in September, and then October in the Milan and Lake Como region.
We're in Prague for about 10 days between river cruises. Interestingly, we're still not tired of traveling because we don't try to do too much, and we really don't have any pressing business to worry about back home. Our biggest concerns are transportation to our next destination, because of all the luggage we have. Alan is house-sitting, which benefits all of us.
We're starting to wonder how we'll settle back into everyday life in Palo Alto.
It seems too soon to be planning the last few weeks, but it's only a few months from now. Today we pretty much settled our transfer from Budapest after our GCT river cruise to Rijeka, Croatia where we'll stay in September, and then October in the Milan and Lake Como region.
We're in Prague for about 10 days between river cruises. Interestingly, we're still not tired of traveling because we don't try to do too much, and we really don't have any pressing business to worry about back home. Our biggest concerns are transportation to our next destination, because of all the luggage we have. Alan is house-sitting, which benefits all of us.
We're starting to wonder how we'll settle back into everyday life in Palo Alto.
Thu 14 Aug- relaxing
Thu 14 Aug- We've been enjoying our stay in Prague. After we moved from the Hilton to this large but quiet hotel up on a hill northwest of the castle, we're relaxing and getting organized for our Croatia and Italy stays.
We'll continue to Budapest on a GCT cruise on the Danube, leaving here the 22nd.
By the way, we found the great deal on this hotel on the Internet - it's hard to believe all the room and nice view we have for the price we're paying. Kiyomi didn't expect much because of the low price, but she loves it: it is quiet and spacious (with bath tub), has fast Internet, and there is a good and reasonably priced restaurant downstairs so we don't have to go out to eat.
We'll continue to Budapest on a GCT cruise on the Danube, leaving here the 22nd.
By the way, we found the great deal on this hotel on the Internet - it's hard to believe all the room and nice view we have for the price we're paying. Kiyomi didn't expect much because of the low price, but she loves it: it is quiet and spacious (with bath tub), has fast Internet, and there is a good and reasonably priced restaurant downstairs so we don't have to go out to eat.
Wed 13 Aug- Hotel Praha
Wed 13 Aug- after the buffet breakfast, we checked out of the Hilton and moved to the Hotel Praha, somewhat out of town, but with excellent facilities at a reasonable price. We got two huge rooms, one for sitting and watching the large plasma TV, one with a king bed and a smaller plasma TV, also with a large balcony. The toilet and bath area are separate rooms, too. At first we thought they had put us in the wrong room, but it was really ours. Plus, breakfast buffet is included in the already reasonable price. We could use the hotel computers for free, or connect to high-speed LAN in our room for $10/day. The only disadvantage is that it is pretty far from the town center; but there is a free shuttle, and the Metro line has a nearby stop. For dinner, we shared a salad and Czech-style roast duck, plus draft Pilsner Urquell. It was almost too much food to finish, but quite good.
Tue 12 Aug- Prague sightseeing, Vivaldi concert
Tue 12 Aug- after the buffet breakfast, we went for Stan's PT/INR test. Once again, it was much easier than expected. The hotel concierge found the nearest hospital that could do the test. It was a short walk along the river, then a little bit of administrative check in, a short wait, then the test and about a half hour later, we received the results. Cost was about $30.
After the test, we walked on to the old town, and had lunch at the Kolkovna restaurant. Stan had spicy marinated wurst roasted in dark beer on an iron skillet; Kiyomi had spicy marinated sausage. We ate half, then switched plates. We could not finish all the food; and we each had 1/2 liter Pilsner Urquell with lunch (which we did finish), then an espresso-male afterward. Total was 376 Kc (Czech crowns, E16, or about $25). The two 1/2 liter (pint) beer was 78 Kc, the espressos 96 Kc.
We walked over to Charles Bridge, and across it. It's pedestrian only; but it's lined with artists doing portraits, caricatures, and selling their artwork featuring Prague sites and scenery. Also musicians were entertaining the constant stream of walkers (probably all tourists).
We were intrigued by a concert at the Church of St. Salvator, featuring a string quartet playing Mozart's 'Ave Verum', Pachelbel's 'Canon', Bach's 'Air', two 'Ave Maria' versions, Bach-Gounod's and Schubert's, some other music by Handel and Mozart, and then Vivaldi's 'Spring' and 'Summer'. Our cost was 700 Kc, about $40. After the concert we walked back to the Hotel.
The GPS came in handy several times during the day, getting us where we wanted to go through the winding streets.
After the test, we walked on to the old town, and had lunch at the Kolkovna restaurant. Stan had spicy marinated wurst roasted in dark beer on an iron skillet; Kiyomi had spicy marinated sausage. We ate half, then switched plates. We could not finish all the food; and we each had 1/2 liter Pilsner Urquell with lunch (which we did finish), then an espresso-male afterward. Total was 376 Kc (Czech crowns, E16, or about $25). The two 1/2 liter (pint) beer was 78 Kc, the espressos 96 Kc.
We walked over to Charles Bridge, and across it. It's pedestrian only; but it's lined with artists doing portraits, caricatures, and selling their artwork featuring Prague sites and scenery. Also musicians were entertaining the constant stream of walkers (probably all tourists).
We were intrigued by a concert at the Church of St. Salvator, featuring a string quartet playing Mozart's 'Ave Verum', Pachelbel's 'Canon', Bach's 'Air', two 'Ave Maria' versions, Bach-Gounod's and Schubert's, some other music by Handel and Mozart, and then Vivaldi's 'Spring' and 'Summer'. Our cost was 700 Kc, about $40. After the concert we walked back to the Hotel.
The GPS came in handy several times during the day, getting us where we wanted to go through the winding streets.
Mon 11 Aug- Prague tour
Mon 11 Aug- We got up early to enjoy our included buffet breakfast (Hilton has a great spread, lots of fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as bread and pastry, cereals, juices and hot selections.
We then went on a walking tour of Prague: first the Prague Castle, the St. Vitus cathedral, the royal palace of Maria Theresa, and a nice view of the city. Then we walked through the (former) Jewish quarter (apparently there are not many Jews left in Prague), then to Old Town Square with its astronomical clock, which we watched (with about a thousand other tourists) strike noon.
We were on our own for lunch, so Kiyomi noticed the 'Sushi House', and got a longing for a Japanese lunch. We had Sashimi, maki sushi (California Rolls and others), avocado salmon, and Pilsner Urquell. Total cost was Kc 860, about $52.
We then went on a walking tour of Prague: first the Prague Castle, the St. Vitus cathedral, the royal palace of Maria Theresa, and a nice view of the city. Then we walked through the (former) Jewish quarter (apparently there are not many Jews left in Prague), then to Old Town Square with its astronomical clock, which we watched (with about a thousand other tourists) strike noon.
We were on our own for lunch, so Kiyomi noticed the 'Sushi House', and got a longing for a Japanese lunch. We had Sashimi, maki sushi (California Rolls and others), avocado salmon, and Pilsner Urquell. Total cost was Kc 860, about $52.
Sun 10 Aug- Nuremberg, Prague
Sun 10 Aug- we got up early for the buffet breakfast and disembarkation as the ship arrived in Nuremberg. We went into town for the city tour, which included the site of the Nazi party rallies, and the site of Hitler's planned Nazi complex (which never got completed due to his political and military failures). We also saw the building where the Nuremberg trials were held.
We had lunch a famous sausage restaurant, the Bratwurst Roslein, and had their famous Bratwurst [http://hutchings.smugmug.com/photos/351260651_HLXow-M.jpg]. It was quite good, especially accompanied by a Tuchen draft beer.
After lunch we left for the Czech Republic, with a stop at the border, and then in Pilsen, where Pilsner Beer was developed, and is still very popular today. We didn't have time for a beer then, but since then, we've had many steins of draft Pilsner Urquell, it seems like every restaurant features it, and it's actually cheaper than any other drink (including bottled water).
We arrived in Prague and checked in to the Prague Hilton, a very nice 5-star hotel close to the center of town, but not in the very busy noisy center of the old town.
We went for dinner at the U Ceskeho Lva, a typical Czech restaurant. Kiyomi had a sausage and bratwurst dish, and Stan had goulash. Both meals were very good, and the portions were so large we could not finish (although the 1/2 liter beer we had were pretty filling, too).
We had lunch a famous sausage restaurant, the Bratwurst Roslein, and had their famous Bratwurst [http://hutchings.smugmug.com/photos/351260651_HLXow-M.jpg]. It was quite good, especially accompanied by a Tuchen draft beer.
After lunch we left for the Czech Republic, with a stop at the border, and then in Pilsen, where Pilsner Beer was developed, and is still very popular today. We didn't have time for a beer then, but since then, we've had many steins of draft Pilsner Urquell, it seems like every restaurant features it, and it's actually cheaper than any other drink (including bottled water).
We arrived in Prague and checked in to the Prague Hilton, a very nice 5-star hotel close to the center of town, but not in the very busy noisy center of the old town.
We went for dinner at the U Ceskeho Lva, a typical Czech restaurant. Kiyomi had a sausage and bratwurst dish, and Stan had goulash. Both meals were very good, and the portions were so large we could not finish (although the 1/2 liter beer we had were pretty filling, too).
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Sat 9 Aug- Bamberg, Rauchbier
Sat 9 Aug- after our nice buffet breakfast, we attended the disembarkation briefing, a reminder our cruise is nearly over. It seems like we just started - how time flies!
After a nice buffet lunch, the ship arrived in Bamberg, where we had a walking tour of the city, admiring the architecture which has evolved over the past 1000 years, still visible since the city was not damaged in the various wars that destroyed many other areas of Germany (and other European countries). There was a nice rose garden outside the Residenz, which we enjoyed, and a nice view of the city with its characteristic steep roofs and many church spires.
One of the unique products of Bamberg is Rauchbier[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rauchbier], a speciality since 1678 when a granary burnt down but they used the somewhat charred ingredients to make beer. The beer looked normal, but had a smoky taste, people say like bacon. So we stopped by the brewery, which is also a pub, and had some. It was actually pretty good, and got better the more you drank. We talked to a local couple at our table, and found they come here to spend a relaxing Saturday afternoon. They pointed out that the draft beer is tapped from small barrels, so a constant supply of very freshly tapped beer is ensured. We enjoyed talking to them, getting their perspective on various topics.
Back at the ship for dinner, we enjoyed Czech night: asparagus wrapped with ham, stuffed egg with vegetables, garlic soup (YUM), chicken soup, pan fried trout, broccoli quiche with batter-fried zucchini and potatoes, plum dumplings and melon ice cream.
After a nice buffet lunch, the ship arrived in Bamberg, where we had a walking tour of the city, admiring the architecture which has evolved over the past 1000 years, still visible since the city was not damaged in the various wars that destroyed many other areas of Germany (and other European countries). There was a nice rose garden outside the Residenz, which we enjoyed, and a nice view of the city with its characteristic steep roofs and many church spires.
One of the unique products of Bamberg is Rauchbier[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rauchbier], a speciality since 1678 when a granary burnt down but they used the somewhat charred ingredients to make beer. The beer looked normal, but had a smoky taste, people say like bacon. So we stopped by the brewery, which is also a pub, and had some. It was actually pretty good, and got better the more you drank. We talked to a local couple at our table, and found they come here to spend a relaxing Saturday afternoon. They pointed out that the draft beer is tapped from small barrels, so a constant supply of very freshly tapped beer is ensured. We enjoyed talking to them, getting their perspective on various topics.
Back at the ship for dinner, we enjoyed Czech night: asparagus wrapped with ham, stuffed egg with vegetables, garlic soup (YUM), chicken soup, pan fried trout, broccoli quiche with batter-fried zucchini and potatoes, plum dumplings and melon ice cream.
Fri 8 Aug- Karlstadt and Wurzburg
http://hutchings.smugmug.com/ (photos)
Fri 8 Aug- up early for an all day tour. We got off the ship in Karlstadt, and went by bus to Wurzburg for a tour of the Residenz, the palatial home of the Bishop of Wurzburg. It's not your expected simple monestary, rather a palace in which to entertain (and politically guide) the rulers of the area. As such, it had a staff of hundreds, and a guest list of hundreds more. We only saw a few of the hundreds of rooms, but the ones we saw were emulating Versailles and other 'over the top' palaces. It was meant to impress and awe anyone who visited. The room of mirrors was especially noteworthy. There were mirrors everywhere, including the ceiling (to give those in the know an advantage in card games). It was totally destroyed during WWII, but rebuilt exactly as the original by a mirror maker expert, who went by painting, drawings, and photos of the pre-war splendor. There is a rose garden outside, but after some of the ones we've seen, it's not that impressive.
We had a typical Bavarian lunch at a nearby restaurant - about a pound hunk of roast pig with potato dumplings and gravy; and then a great cherry dessert with coffee. It was all delicious, but quite filling. Kiyomi could not finish hers, and I had no room left to help.
Then we went to a wine tasting of Franconia wine from the Walter Erhard winery (www.weingut-erhard.de) in nearby Volkach. It's a family operation, and only a few dozen acres, so they specialize in highest quality wines and limited sales. We tasted a 2007 Saignee sparkling wine, 2006 Riesling Kabinett, 2006 Kerner (my favorite, it's somewhat sweet, unlike the Riesling that although very nice, was fairly dry) and finally 2006 Domina red (lots of flavor and fairly dry, overpowered me).
Back at the ship, we enjoyed the Captain's dinner, although we were still full from lunch, we enjoyed the hors d'ouvers, rich creamy soup, salad, beef for Stan and sea bass for Kiyomi, and baked Alaska with a fireworks parade finished it off.
Fri 8 Aug- up early for an all day tour. We got off the ship in Karlstadt, and went by bus to Wurzburg for a tour of the Residenz, the palatial home of the Bishop of Wurzburg. It's not your expected simple monestary, rather a palace in which to entertain (and politically guide) the rulers of the area. As such, it had a staff of hundreds, and a guest list of hundreds more. We only saw a few of the hundreds of rooms, but the ones we saw were emulating Versailles and other 'over the top' palaces. It was meant to impress and awe anyone who visited. The room of mirrors was especially noteworthy. There were mirrors everywhere, including the ceiling (to give those in the know an advantage in card games). It was totally destroyed during WWII, but rebuilt exactly as the original by a mirror maker expert, who went by painting, drawings, and photos of the pre-war splendor. There is a rose garden outside, but after some of the ones we've seen, it's not that impressive.
We had a typical Bavarian lunch at a nearby restaurant - about a pound hunk of roast pig with potato dumplings and gravy; and then a great cherry dessert with coffee. It was all delicious, but quite filling. Kiyomi could not finish hers, and I had no room left to help.
Then we went to a wine tasting of Franconia wine from the Walter Erhard winery (www.weingut-erhard.de) in nearby Volkach. It's a family operation, and only a few dozen acres, so they specialize in highest quality wines and limited sales. We tasted a 2007 Saignee sparkling wine, 2006 Riesling Kabinett, 2006 Kerner (my favorite, it's somewhat sweet, unlike the Riesling that although very nice, was fairly dry) and finally 2006 Domina red (lots of flavor and fairly dry, overpowered me).
Back at the ship, we enjoyed the Captain's dinner, although we were still full from lunch, we enjoyed the hors d'ouvers, rich creamy soup, salad, beef for Stan and sea bass for Kiyomi, and baked Alaska with a fireworks parade finished it off.
Monday, August 11, 2008
Thu 7 Aug- Miltenberg, Amorbach Monastery
Thu 7 Aug- we got to sleep a little later today, breakfast at 8 am. After cruising along the Main river, we arrived at Miltenberg, where we visited the Amorbach Monastery, which has a famous old huge pipe organ. We were treated to an organ concert after our tour of the monastery, which itself was very nice - those monks spared no expense, because they had to entertain royalty in the manner to which they were accostomed (apparently lavishly). After commenting on how the marble columns and panels had colors that matched the other decorations, we found out it was not marble, but painted and polished stucco - that was the only way the interior decorator could get the color schemes he wanted.
After another great dinner, we had a glass-blowing demonstration. This would have been of great interest to my chem lab colleagues; the glass blower apparently subcontracts to Corning. He and his extended family came from East Germany just before the wall was finished, bringing their glass-blowing skills and heritage with them. Corning started a factory along the Main river, and hired him and many other East German glass blowers to make lab equipment, such as distillation columns and other scientific glassware from Pyrex glass for Corning. They also make the Galileo thermometer based on little balls of differing specific gravity that rise or fall, depending on the temperature; and the little radiometers that spin when they are heated. He had lots of other glass objects, and did a brisk sale after his demo (but he didn't sell any actual lab ware).
After another great dinner, we had a glass-blowing demonstration. This would have been of great interest to my chem lab colleagues; the glass blower apparently subcontracts to Corning. He and his extended family came from East Germany just before the wall was finished, bringing their glass-blowing skills and heritage with them. Corning started a factory along the Main river, and hired him and many other East German glass blowers to make lab equipment, such as distillation columns and other scientific glassware from Pyrex glass for Corning. They also make the Galileo thermometer based on little balls of differing specific gravity that rise or fall, depending on the temperature; and the little radiometers that spin when they are heated. He had lots of other glass objects, and did a brisk sale after his demo (but he didn't sell any actual lab ware).
Wed 6 Aug- castles along the Rhine,Rudesheim
Wed 6 Aug- we got up early to see the castles along the Rhine after a nice buffet breakfast. We sat on the sun deck with a view of both sides and saw many of the castles, up on a high hill overlooking the Rhine, from which they extorted tolls from all the ships that wanted to pass, until they were razed by the French, who apparently tired of the extortion. Many of the castles are restored as restaurants and tourist destinations, but many remain in ruins. The little towns along the Rhine are cute, and about two or three streets deep, with vineyards extending up the hill behind them. We saw a lot of river traffic, coal and other cargo, plus many cruise ships of different companies and nationalities. We had a traditional 'Rhenish Fruhschoppen' (beer drinking and pretzel eating snack before lunch), served with roast suckling pig and accompanied by live music by the keyboard artist while we cruised.
There was a nice buffet lunch, with fried squid rings, green salad, and eclairs with cheese for dessert.
After lunch we arrived in Rudesheim, a fairly big town made famous by the statue of Germania high up on a hill overlooking the Rhine. We took a cable car up, over vinyards and a beautiful view of the Rhine and the town. Then we came down and since it was hot, 29-30 C, and this is Germany, we had a draft beer, which really hit the spot. We walked around town a bit, but it's mostly hotels, beer gardens, wine cellers, hotels and souvenir shops (apparently a common theme of towns along the Rhine and other rivers).
Walking back to the ship, we admired some of the new, state-of-the-art cruise ships, like the 'Avalon Poetry' and 'Avalon Tapestry', and wondered how we'd be able to take a cruise on them, since they are probably conducted in a language other than English. The ship departed at 6 pm for its next port Miltenberg.
For dinner we had another feast, an International dinner, with hors d'ouvres 'baba ghanoush' (Egypt) & spring rolls (China); Borscht soup (Russia); appetizer, fried filet of sea bass (France) & breaded gouda cheese with beans (Holland); dessert semolina pudding (Germany) & balaton ice cream (Hungary), plus wine. Stan tried borscht, and liked it; and tried the vegetarian dish of breaded gouda cheese and quite enjoyed it.
The entertainment was a preview of other Viking cruises and ships. The Russian and Chinese cruise ships are much larger than the Fontane, and newer. The cabins are also larger, with huge windows that open like sliding glass doors.
There was a nice buffet lunch, with fried squid rings, green salad, and eclairs with cheese for dessert.
After lunch we arrived in Rudesheim, a fairly big town made famous by the statue of Germania high up on a hill overlooking the Rhine. We took a cable car up, over vinyards and a beautiful view of the Rhine and the town. Then we came down and since it was hot, 29-30 C, and this is Germany, we had a draft beer, which really hit the spot. We walked around town a bit, but it's mostly hotels, beer gardens, wine cellers, hotels and souvenir shops (apparently a common theme of towns along the Rhine and other rivers).
Walking back to the ship, we admired some of the new, state-of-the-art cruise ships, like the 'Avalon Poetry' and 'Avalon Tapestry', and wondered how we'd be able to take a cruise on them, since they are probably conducted in a language other than English. The ship departed at 6 pm for its next port Miltenberg.
For dinner we had another feast, an International dinner, with hors d'ouvres 'baba ghanoush' (Egypt) & spring rolls (China); Borscht soup (Russia); appetizer, fried filet of sea bass (France) & breaded gouda cheese with beans (Holland); dessert semolina pudding (Germany) & balaton ice cream (Hungary), plus wine. Stan tried borscht, and liked it; and tried the vegetarian dish of breaded gouda cheese and quite enjoyed it.
The entertainment was a preview of other Viking cruises and ships. The Russian and Chinese cruise ships are much larger than the Fontane, and newer. The cabins are also larger, with huge windows that open like sliding glass doors.
Tue 5 Aug- Cochem and Reichsburg Castle, Koblenz
Tue 5 Aug- we awoke early to have buffet breakfast and be ready for the 8:45 departure of our tour of Cochem and Reichsburg Castle. We have a radio receiver and earphone that picks up the guides's voice, so it's much easier listening to the commentary. The castle has been on top of the hill for at least a thousand years, but was razed by the French about 350 years ago, and eventually rebuilt by a German millionaire using drawings and paintings of the original. It's a great tourist attraction, and lots of people visit each year. Only seven rooms have been re-furnished; the original furniture was sold when the owners were forced to sell it to the German Republik in 1942; but gradually the castle is acquiring items from the periods, and someday hopes to open more rooms to tourists. Then we were taken through the cute "old town", which was also razed by the French, so the oldest buildings are less than 350 years old. The town is characterized by shops for tourists: shoe stores, souvenir shops, restaurants of all cuisines, wine shops (selling Reisling, what else?) and hotels. Food and lodging seem quite reasonable after France.
Back on the ship, we had a light salad and BLT for lunch, and for dessert a frappicino. The ship departed for Coblenz, our next stop, at about noon.
We cruised down the river with rather steep hills on both sides, one side dedicated to vineyards, the other side mainly forest with dozens of trailer parks filled with campers, interspersed. Then there is an occasional cute town with church and castle. We see lots of swans, including some cygnets still grey color, but now bigger than ducks. We arrived at Koblenz, with its huge statue of Wilhelm I, at the confluence of the Mosel and Rhine. Now we're on the Rhine river.
For dinner, we tried the salmon moussse and sliced beef appetizers; a draft Beck beer and last night's wine; cream of white asparagus soup; duck and fish main course; very nice desserts.
After dinner we took a leisurely stroll thtough Koblenz's old town, led by Monique. We noticed all kinds of cuisines offered, just about evertyhing we have in Palo Alto. Lots of hotels, beer gardens, wine cellers, stores of every kind. It's a big city, and we just briefly walked through a few streets.
Back on the ship, we had a light salad and BLT for lunch, and for dessert a frappicino. The ship departed for Coblenz, our next stop, at about noon.
We cruised down the river with rather steep hills on both sides, one side dedicated to vineyards, the other side mainly forest with dozens of trailer parks filled with campers, interspersed. Then there is an occasional cute town with church and castle. We see lots of swans, including some cygnets still grey color, but now bigger than ducks. We arrived at Koblenz, with its huge statue of Wilhelm I, at the confluence of the Mosel and Rhine. Now we're on the Rhine river.
For dinner, we tried the salmon moussse and sliced beef appetizers; a draft Beck beer and last night's wine; cream of white asparagus soup; duck and fish main course; very nice desserts.
After dinner we took a leisurely stroll thtough Koblenz's old town, led by Monique. We noticed all kinds of cuisines offered, just about evertyhing we have in Palo Alto. Lots of hotels, beer gardens, wine cellers, stores of every kind. It's a big city, and we just briefly walked through a few streets.
Mon 4 Aug- Bernkastel -wine tasting
Mon 4 Aug- we woke up at 6:30 for the city tour, but when we looked out, it was raining and a chilly 15 C. We decided to skip the tour, which included walking. We had the breakfast buffet, quite good and a larger selection of food than we've had in a long time.
Back in the cabin, we unpacked and organized our stuff for the next week. The ship 'set sail' at 11 am, cruising down the Mosel River. We had buffet lunch, rather than sit-down so we could have a nice salad. Stan found an interesting book in the library, 'Godel, Escher, Bach: and Eternal Golden Braid' by Douglas R. Hofstadter. He seems to investigate the source of conciousness via logic, art and music. It's interesting, but at 777 pages, I probably will not be able to finish it during the cruise.
The ship went through several locks to lower us to the next level; apparently there are a lot of locks - we fit through with just inches to spare on each side - a crewman pused us off so we didn't scrape the sides.
We arrived in Bernkastel about 4 pm, our first stop, and went out for wine tasting and a walking tour at 5:15. Returned for at 7:30; apparently all the dinners are sit-down full service, not buffet, so we had another gourmet meal: shrimp cocktail or tomato & mozzarella cheese; muligitawney soup; fish, pork or spinach-filled pancakes; Captain Morgan ice cream (yes, rum-flavored!), accompanied by a nice Mosel white wine: 2006 Hermes Krover Paradies Riesling, Kabinett Halbtrocken.
The evening entertainment was a group of 8 German folk dancers dressed in traditional costume, who gave a demonstration of the various dances.
Back in the cabin, we unpacked and organized our stuff for the next week. The ship 'set sail' at 11 am, cruising down the Mosel River. We had buffet lunch, rather than sit-down so we could have a nice salad. Stan found an interesting book in the library, 'Godel, Escher, Bach: and Eternal Golden Braid' by Douglas R. Hofstadter. He seems to investigate the source of conciousness via logic, art and music. It's interesting, but at 777 pages, I probably will not be able to finish it during the cruise.
The ship went through several locks to lower us to the next level; apparently there are a lot of locks - we fit through with just inches to spare on each side - a crewman pused us off so we didn't scrape the sides.
We arrived in Bernkastel about 4 pm, our first stop, and went out for wine tasting and a walking tour at 5:15. Returned for at 7:30; apparently all the dinners are sit-down full service, not buffet, so we had another gourmet meal: shrimp cocktail or tomato & mozzarella cheese; muligitawney soup; fish, pork or spinach-filled pancakes; Captain Morgan ice cream (yes, rum-flavored!), accompanied by a nice Mosel white wine: 2006 Hermes Krover Paradies Riesling, Kabinett Halbtrocken.
The evening entertainment was a group of 8 German folk dancers dressed in traditional costume, who gave a demonstration of the various dances.
Sun 3 Aug- Verdun and Trier, Germany; board T. Fontane
http://hutchings.smugmug.com/ (photos)
Sun 3 Aug- awake at 6 am to have breakfast and depart by 7:45 - what a shock after following our own schedule for the past 3 months! We saw our luggage loaded on the bus, boarded and departed for Trier, Germany at 8 am, accompanied by our Program Director Monique Vanmierlo and her associate Sabrina.
On the way, we stopped by WWI and WWII cemetaries museums and monuments at Verdun and Ardennes. Even after 90 years, the French pay tribute to the tens of thousands who died in WWI; and have even fresher memories of WWII.
We had lunch at La Toscana, a little restaurant in Verdun, a large salad that Kiyomi and I shared, and a 'moelleux au chocolat' (chocolate brownie with ice cream and whipped cream) that was mainly enjoyed by Stan.
We arrived at the ship about 6 pm, boarded, and settled in to our cabin. The cabin was smaller than we expected; we've been staying in castles, chateaux, and have been spoiled. We got 'sticker shock' when we found the Internet is E10/hour - that's $16! And it's very slooow, a satellite connection that really drags. I won't get many photos uploaded.
Then we had a very nice first dinner, trying a nice German white wine, with terrine appetizer, consomme, shrimp on rice, the main course fish for Kiyomi, veal for Stan, and finally a dessert dish with apple strudel and other tasty delights. One interesting package we could buy is E300 (that's $450) for all the beer, wine and several daily cocktails, plus soft drinks, etc. We decided to skip it; we'd have to drink ourselves silly to take advantage of it, even though the alcoholic beverages are rather high priced. There is a free coffee maching that provides all kinds of coffee drinks at the push of a button, available 24/7 - a great invention.
Sun 3 Aug- awake at 6 am to have breakfast and depart by 7:45 - what a shock after following our own schedule for the past 3 months! We saw our luggage loaded on the bus, boarded and departed for Trier, Germany at 8 am, accompanied by our Program Director Monique Vanmierlo and her associate Sabrina.
On the way, we stopped by WWI and WWII cemetaries museums and monuments at Verdun and Ardennes. Even after 90 years, the French pay tribute to the tens of thousands who died in WWI; and have even fresher memories of WWII.
We had lunch at La Toscana, a little restaurant in Verdun, a large salad that Kiyomi and I shared, and a 'moelleux au chocolat' (chocolate brownie with ice cream and whipped cream) that was mainly enjoyed by Stan.
We arrived at the ship about 6 pm, boarded, and settled in to our cabin. The cabin was smaller than we expected; we've been staying in castles, chateaux, and have been spoiled. We got 'sticker shock' when we found the Internet is E10/hour - that's $16! And it's very slooow, a satellite connection that really drags. I won't get many photos uploaded.
Then we had a very nice first dinner, trying a nice German white wine, with terrine appetizer, consomme, shrimp on rice, the main course fish for Kiyomi, veal for Stan, and finally a dessert dish with apple strudel and other tasty delights. One interesting package we could buy is E300 (that's $450) for all the beer, wine and several daily cocktails, plus soft drinks, etc. We decided to skip it; we'd have to drink ourselves silly to take advantage of it, even though the alcoholic beverages are rather high priced. There is a free coffee maching that provides all kinds of coffee drinks at the push of a button, available 24/7 - a great invention.
Sat 2 Aug- Viking cruise starts, tour Paris
Sat 2 Aug- our Viking cruise started with a tour of Paris, so after a beautiful sunny sunrise from 7 am, we had breakfast at the hotel (we had vouchers from Viking; the cost of a continental breakfast is unbelievable for what you get - less than what many of the less expensive places we stayed served as part of the included breakfast).
By the time we departed at 9 am, it had clouded up and started drizzling with wind and cool 18-19 C. Fortunately, the bus was warm, and we didn't get out except to photograph the Eiffel Tower from Trocadero. The bus took us past most of the famous monuments and on the famous streets: Rue de Rennes, across La Seine, the site of the Bastille, the new opera house, the older famous opera house, Avenue de l'Opera, Galeries Layfayette and Blvd. Hausmann, the Louvre, Arch of Triumph and Etoile, the Trocadero, Hotel des Invalides, Rodin museum, the Luxembourg gardens, and many others that are of special interest to visitors. We recalled the ones we had seen on previous visits (most of them!) when we actually went inside and spent some time.
After the tour it was drizzling and windy, so we had lunch at 'Le France', a brasserie/cafe just down the street from the hotel: roast duck, E14.30; green beans, E1.50; roast chicken, 11.90; 500 cc red house wine, E5.70; 2 cafe, E4.60; total E38. It was pretty good, though the beans were below standard, and a much better value than the hotel or fancier cafes in the Champs-Elysees area. Of course, one thing that dramatically increases restaurant prices is the TVA tax at 19.6% and 'service compris' (tip & service charges included).
By the time we departed at 9 am, it had clouded up and started drizzling with wind and cool 18-19 C. Fortunately, the bus was warm, and we didn't get out except to photograph the Eiffel Tower from Trocadero. The bus took us past most of the famous monuments and on the famous streets: Rue de Rennes, across La Seine, the site of the Bastille, the new opera house, the older famous opera house, Avenue de l'Opera, Galeries Layfayette and Blvd. Hausmann, the Louvre, Arch of Triumph and Etoile, the Trocadero, Hotel des Invalides, Rodin museum, the Luxembourg gardens, and many others that are of special interest to visitors. We recalled the ones we had seen on previous visits (most of them!) when we actually went inside and spent some time.
After the tour it was drizzling and windy, so we had lunch at 'Le France', a brasserie/cafe just down the street from the hotel: roast duck, E14.30; green beans, E1.50; roast chicken, 11.90; 500 cc red house wine, E5.70; 2 cafe, E4.60; total E38. It was pretty good, though the beans were below standard, and a much better value than the hotel or fancier cafes in the Champs-Elysees area. Of course, one thing that dramatically increases restaurant prices is the TVA tax at 19.6% and 'service compris' (tip & service charges included).
Fri 1 Aug- Champs-Elysees and shopping
Fri 1 Aug- after an expensive coffee and croissant for E15 ($23) in the hotel, we (actually Kiyomi) decided to go shopping. The weather had cooled to a pleasant 22-23 C, great for walking, so we took the Metro to the Champs-Elysees and walked to the Hermes store on Rue George V.
It wasn't scheduled to open for another hour, so we decided to have Chinese lunch. A short walk later, we found the Diep on Rue Pierre Charron, where we had 'salade a la citronnell', E11; 'legumes sautees', E12; 'nouilles sautees', E12; coconut rice pudding cakes, E7; and Chinese beer, E14; for a total E56, very expensive for the quality and quantity of food and service (they didn't even serve tea with the meal), but it's in the 'high rent district' of Champs-Elysees, so they get away with it.
Back at Hermes, Kiyomi found some things she needed while Stan read his book, 'Eagles in the Sky' by Wilbur Smith. Then on to the famous Printemps on Hausmann, with more shopping and browsing by Kiyomi while Stan sat and read. After a full day of shopping, back to the Metro for the short ride to the hotel, this time using the Gaite stop, just around the (short) block from the hotel, stopping by to pick up salad and a beer for a light supper.
It wasn't scheduled to open for another hour, so we decided to have Chinese lunch. A short walk later, we found the Diep on Rue Pierre Charron, where we had 'salade a la citronnell', E11; 'legumes sautees', E12; 'nouilles sautees', E12; coconut rice pudding cakes, E7; and Chinese beer, E14; for a total E56, very expensive for the quality and quantity of food and service (they didn't even serve tea with the meal), but it's in the 'high rent district' of Champs-Elysees, so they get away with it.
Back at Hermes, Kiyomi found some things she needed while Stan read his book, 'Eagles in the Sky' by Wilbur Smith. Then on to the famous Printemps on Hausmann, with more shopping and browsing by Kiyomi while Stan sat and read. After a full day of shopping, back to the Metro for the short ride to the hotel, this time using the Gaite stop, just around the (short) block from the hotel, stopping by to pick up salad and a beer for a light supper.
Thu 31 Jul- Meridien Montparnasse, return Peugeot
Thu 31 Jul- depart after a cup of coffee and chocolate croissant to return the Peugeot 207, our trusty transportation for the past four months. It's been really convenient having a car, and we'll miss the flexibility and ease of transporting our luggage. We got about 100 km/8 liters gasoline, about 30 mpg, paying anywhere from E1.1 (Spain) to E1.6 (France) per liter ($6.70 to $9.70/gal). On the way from Versailles, we dropped off our luggage and checked in to the Meridien Montparnasse. Then we drove through the heart of Paris, around the Arc of Triumph, and over to the drop-ff point in Courbevoie. We had accumulated 8852 km during our trip.
Then we had lunch at the Fuku Noya, a local Japanese restaurant: California rolls with teriyaki, E13; assorted maki sushi, E13; 500 cc Asahi beer, E6; for a total E32.
After being refreshed, after asking several people for directions, we found the Metro and took it back to the Meridien, with one change at the Champs-Elysees from Line 1 to Line 13. We got off at Montparnasse Bienvenue, which is right across from the Meridien, but the station was huge, since other Metro lines and trains (RER and SNCF) also used the station, so we got turned around, and could not find the right exit. We walked a long way around the block in hot sunny weather before we finally arrived at the hotel. There was a small marche (market) next to the hotel, and we were still full from lunch, so we bought veggies and a beer and had a light supper.
Then we had lunch at the Fuku Noya, a local Japanese restaurant: California rolls with teriyaki, E13; assorted maki sushi, E13; 500 cc Asahi beer, E6; for a total E32.
After being refreshed, after asking several people for directions, we found the Metro and took it back to the Meridien, with one change at the Champs-Elysees from Line 1 to Line 13. We got off at Montparnasse Bienvenue, which is right across from the Meridien, but the station was huge, since other Metro lines and trains (RER and SNCF) also used the station, so we got turned around, and could not find the right exit. We walked a long way around the block in hot sunny weather before we finally arrived at the hotel. There was a small marche (market) next to the hotel, and we were still full from lunch, so we bought veggies and a beer and had a light supper.
Wed 30 Jul- Versailles gardens and grounds
Wed 30 Jul- after coffee and chocolate croissant for breakfast, checked the Internet for mail, last-minute cruise deals, etc.
Then we took a walk into Versailles to visit the Yves de Lorme shop, check out the French underwear (Stan wasn't allowed in the shop) and have lunch at a Japanese restaurant (run by a Taiwanese). Kiyomi had the E12 Chirashi (salad, soup, sashimi and rice), Stan had the special E14 menu of salad, soup, sashimi, rice and four kushiyaki of different kinds, and we shared a large Kirin beer.
After returning to the hotel to pick up camera and drop off the purchases, we took the short walk next door to the Chateau of Versailles gardens and grounds, and continued our visit to the garden, this time to the left rear side to see the gardens and the Orangerie. We looked down at the Orangerie, and saw the Piece d'eau des Suisses (a large pond) from 'les cent marches' (the hundred steps) that led down to the Orangerie, where we walked around noticing the way they had the orange and other trees planted in wooden planters, and enjoying the fragrance from the citrus blossoms. We walked down the Allee du Mail, then over to the Basin of Apollo, and continuing to 'Allee du Petit Pont', and back to the exit to the hotel.
After resting a bit and having coffee in the room, we went shopping for a picnic dinner: 'Bouquets de Mache' (canonigos in Spain, lamb's lettuce in English), tuna, avocado, pepper, artichoke hearts, mushroom, cucumber; and finishing the bottle of 'Muscador Cepage Muscat Blanc' (from Tournan 77220 France), a sparkling wine very similar to Asti Spumante. The veggies were fresh and very tasty, a nice treat after some of the fancy rich cuisine we've had recently.
Then we took a walk into Versailles to visit the Yves de Lorme shop, check out the French underwear (Stan wasn't allowed in the shop) and have lunch at a Japanese restaurant (run by a Taiwanese). Kiyomi had the E12 Chirashi (salad, soup, sashimi and rice), Stan had the special E14 menu of salad, soup, sashimi, rice and four kushiyaki of different kinds, and we shared a large Kirin beer.
After returning to the hotel to pick up camera and drop off the purchases, we took the short walk next door to the Chateau of Versailles gardens and grounds, and continued our visit to the garden, this time to the left rear side to see the gardens and the Orangerie. We looked down at the Orangerie, and saw the Piece d'eau des Suisses (a large pond) from 'les cent marches' (the hundred steps) that led down to the Orangerie, where we walked around noticing the way they had the orange and other trees planted in wooden planters, and enjoying the fragrance from the citrus blossoms. We walked down the Allee du Mail, then over to the Basin of Apollo, and continuing to 'Allee du Petit Pont', and back to the exit to the hotel.
After resting a bit and having coffee in the room, we went shopping for a picnic dinner: 'Bouquets de Mache' (canonigos in Spain, lamb's lettuce in English), tuna, avocado, pepper, artichoke hearts, mushroom, cucumber; and finishing the bottle of 'Muscador Cepage Muscat Blanc' (from Tournan 77220 France), a sparkling wine very similar to Asti Spumante. The veggies were fresh and very tasty, a nice treat after some of the fancy rich cuisine we've had recently.
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