Or words to that effect. Blogger-in-chief is somewhat punchy today, having gone through all sorts of contortions to get onto the internet. Thanks to a helpful coffee shop worker, connection happened at last!
The word from internet land is FRUSTRATING. Connections are iffy - at best - on the boat. Last night in Linz I was able, finally, to read e-mail, but blogging is not possible.
But enough complaints. One of our fans out there said we sound like two sorority sisters on a post-college trip to Europe, partying our way from here to there. No no no -- well, not all the time. Since joining the Tauck tour in Prague we have been to (1) one welcome reception (champagne); (2) one elegant dinner at a castle (champagne and wine from the castle owner's own vineyards); and (3) one "welcome aboard" reception on the Swiss Emerald (champagne and wine, of course!)
In between we walk through interesting old cities, take lots of pictures, and become acquainted with our fellow passengers. Only 36 of this group plan to go all the way to the Black Sea - the others get off in Budapest.
In Prague, we enjoyed a meal at a restaurant featuring Czech specialties, and Nancy indulged her craving for dumplings (they were in both the dinner and the dessert!) Fortunately, our tablemate was happy to share the dessert, as his menu choice didn't include one.
Next evening was the elegant evening at the castle, whose present prince was born and raised in Boston. After the Velvet Revolution in 1989, he and some of his family returned to try to recover some of the properties confiscated in 1948. Thus far they have succeeded in getting back a number of their castles and the artwork that belongs in them - the particular treasure of this castle is a Rubens that hangs in a place of honor upstairs.
The castle itself is Italian renaissance in style, and, fortunately for its present owners, was used as a regional museum until they were able to reclaim it. Now they recoup the money they spent on restoration by making it available as an event and conference center. After listening to "Prince Charming" outline the castle's history, we toured the public rooms with costumed guides, then sat down to a meal fit for royalty.
Next morning we got on three very comfortable buses and set off for Regensburg, Germany, where we met the boat at last. Not until we were on a walking tour of the city did we realize why its name sounds familiar - it is the home city of Pope Benedict.
(In spite of the post title, the picture is of the cathedral in Regensburg.)
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