IT IS SO HOT AND HUMID. I believe the kids said it is 90 out, plus the humidity. There is no reason to take a shower, before you can even dry off, we are sweating. The day began after an evil night out. We were robbed by the taxi drivers. |Grossly depressing us all. So this morning, it was hard to get out of bed for the bike ride. It was toooooo hot to do the 4 hour tour, so in 2 in a half hours we were able to see Parliament, views of the castle from the river and other nonmemorable monuments. There was a natural water fountain that was so gross, but we all tried it and it tasted and smelled like rotten eggs.
Barely able to walk in the heat home, and up the thousand steps to the room, most took a nap, and others ran to the 3 story air conditioned mall 3 long hot sunny blocks away.
A group dinner at Umicon allowed everyone to share their last supper together.
Then, after a game of chess, a game of samurai, a game of signing Jack's t-shirt, and sitting out on the balcony, the group left to the neighborhood hangout, Instant, to try to play some pool. Unlike all other nights out where everyone dressed to impress, these Cali Kids wore swim shorts, tshirts, and cool summer dresses.
It is almost 11 pm, and I suspect that the heat will drive them in sooner than their averaged 4 am curfew...
Our wake up time is set for 8 am, taxi shuttle vans to the airport arrive at 9, and our flight leaves at 11:55.
We will be leaving Shane and Evan behind, as they venture to Florence on a 5 pm train. Emma and Justine are headed to Rome, and Justin Caesar and Nathan will be ditching us in New York.
I can't even put into words the family that has been formed on this trip. The boys have named it the Butler Krew, and have given eachother names like Harold and Chester...I don't know if they realize the memories that they have created, and I am thinking of offering a college graduation reunion trip, just so I, selfishly, can see how much they have all grown into more amazing individuals.
There hasn't been one catastrophe that has ruined the trip for us, even when the boys missed the train to Amsterdam, they were still there before hotel check in...And, although the taxi drivers played us for a few hundred, the kids learned a HUGE lesson about traveling, and trust...The girls ultimately are best friends tonight, so any real tension throughout room sharing and whatnot has dissolved maturely.. The guys have inside jokes about eachother that will last on facebook for decades to come...And, as they find themselves bored in their college courses, I am sure, they will be remembering bits and pieces of this amazing trip.
WE have found a date where EVERYONE has approved, for our reunion party...August 9th...and that's IF Evan and Ashli are NOT in Catalina that day...so I am in hopes that one of you parents will offer your home to us, as we have an awards ceremony planned, a picture passing. and video made by Alex and Harry, and really, a time to remember, laugh, and see eachother once more before college life calls them all on their own journeys...
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Saturday, July 9, 2011
BUDAPESCHT
We have learned how to say budapest correctly> Budapescht.
Leaving Prague, we walked from the hostel to the train station, which wasnt far at all, and we should've done that upon arriving, because the subway was harder to navigate than just walking...and we arrived to find our train delayed an hour. We went upstairs and sat in the old and dark train station *the original station, as it had authentic carvings and murals on the ceiling. 200 years ago, it would've been glowing *("Titanic" thoughts arise) However, we sat together, not moving away from the group, and thank goodness we didn't, because teh train was not delayed afterall. We all boarded and found our rooms were all on the same car this time. The train ride was on a brand new train, completely comfortable. Max, Marcella and John stayed awake all night, to monitor the halls as I had spread mz fear of gypsies into all of my travelers. Better to be prepared than to have bad memories...We were awoken with coffee and pain au chocolates served 30 minutes before arriving at the Keleti train station. Again, we were woken up to the most gorgeous mountainous views, and the train followed the Danube river into town.
We waited downstairs in the cool marble of the Keleti train station as Shane and Evan purchased their train tickets to Florence. An hour later, we took one subway and one tram and walked four blocks to our hostel. BUT it was literally six marble flights of stairs to the third floor. We do have the whole third floor flat to ourselves, it is comprised of three apartments. The first has two rooms which hold four beds, and these are the most spacious rooms ever, plus they have a huge entry way, and their own kitchen and bathroom. The next apartment has a ktichen a bathroom, a room of 6 beds, a room of two and a single. The third apartment has a room of six beds and a twin with a kitchen and two bathrooms. WE ARE SPOILED. (except for the stairs to get up here )
As soon as we arrived, we all put on our bathing suits and shorts and walked 10 large blocks to the Synchenyi Baths, Oh My GOSH, we found heaven. The 3 large outside pools had warm, cold and a lap pool. Then we all decided to cancel the bike tour until tomorrow. So we went inside the baths and ventured into about 20 pools all ranging from 16 degrees celsius to 38 . Our preferred was 34. IT was so much fun teaching them to go from freezing cold, yes, the head too, to the hot, to feel the tingles. Then we went back outside to lay in the sun and hop around in the cool pool. The pool had the largest assortment of people, ages, cultures, looks, body sizes that we all had ever seen. It was spectacular. The most fun was walking in the tiled circle of the pool, creating a whirl pool, that literally swept you off your feet in the currents. It was made as everyone walked in a circle, and soon, we were all laughing and drowning in a circle.
Most travelers were done with the spa experience after 2 hours, and i was trying not to be upset, as I had cancelled the bike tour, but about half stayed until 4, and we all were able to rest, and do our own thing.
Upon returning to the hostel, most slept, and I hopped on my skateboard to visit old haunts, visit with the bike tour people, and find us a restaurant, which amazingly I did! I skated down a random street on the way to the bike place, and looked in at this odd gravel filled bar, with multi colored garden picnic tables. It kinda reminded me of a beach bar in Mexico. In any case, I kept going to the bike place, and after I got tomorrows time locked in, I asked for advice about a dinner place. She showed me on the map where to go, and I did, and low and behold it was Kolevest....the place I saw! |I alerted them we'd be coming in an hour.
We showed up, and there was no waiter, so I played waitress, and I had NO idea what to expect, but the food was the BEST we've had all trip. Tender sirloin on a fried potato pancake with bell peppers in a balsamic dressing. ABSOLUTELY DELICIOUS. Others had a hamburger, but it was seasoned with a chili ketchup sauce, and then there was a Chicken Mozzerella with tomatoe sauce, over a lettuce. I mean, really unbelievable.
I am now, in the second apartment, waiting, waiting blogging, waiting, for them all to get ready to go out on the town. I have a huge fear that if I stop typing, I will just go to sleep...so...The weather is super hot here, and humid, we are sweating sitting still.
We are headed to Instant, a dance club 3 blocks away, then Morrisons, another 3 blocks north, and then back to Szent Istvan to a roof party which we ventured upon last year, to see the amazing lights at night.
Tomorrow, we will have the bike tour, and then free time. Before we leave at 6 am to the airport.
It is going to be hard to say goodbye, but we are already trying to figure out a date, in August when we can all be together again for the reunion party.
CANT WAIT TO COME HOME...I MISS MY FAMILY!!! and I am sure these kids miss their loved ones just as much, but gosh, its all a blur, and a wonderful time we've had...
Leaving Prague, we walked from the hostel to the train station, which wasnt far at all, and we should've done that upon arriving, because the subway was harder to navigate than just walking...and we arrived to find our train delayed an hour. We went upstairs and sat in the old and dark train station *the original station, as it had authentic carvings and murals on the ceiling. 200 years ago, it would've been glowing *("Titanic" thoughts arise) However, we sat together, not moving away from the group, and thank goodness we didn't, because teh train was not delayed afterall. We all boarded and found our rooms were all on the same car this time. The train ride was on a brand new train, completely comfortable. Max, Marcella and John stayed awake all night, to monitor the halls as I had spread mz fear of gypsies into all of my travelers. Better to be prepared than to have bad memories...We were awoken with coffee and pain au chocolates served 30 minutes before arriving at the Keleti train station. Again, we were woken up to the most gorgeous mountainous views, and the train followed the Danube river into town.
We waited downstairs in the cool marble of the Keleti train station as Shane and Evan purchased their train tickets to Florence. An hour later, we took one subway and one tram and walked four blocks to our hostel. BUT it was literally six marble flights of stairs to the third floor. We do have the whole third floor flat to ourselves, it is comprised of three apartments. The first has two rooms which hold four beds, and these are the most spacious rooms ever, plus they have a huge entry way, and their own kitchen and bathroom. The next apartment has a ktichen a bathroom, a room of 6 beds, a room of two and a single. The third apartment has a room of six beds and a twin with a kitchen and two bathrooms. WE ARE SPOILED. (except for the stairs to get up here )
As soon as we arrived, we all put on our bathing suits and shorts and walked 10 large blocks to the Synchenyi Baths, Oh My GOSH, we found heaven. The 3 large outside pools had warm, cold and a lap pool. Then we all decided to cancel the bike tour until tomorrow. So we went inside the baths and ventured into about 20 pools all ranging from 16 degrees celsius to 38 . Our preferred was 34. IT was so much fun teaching them to go from freezing cold, yes, the head too, to the hot, to feel the tingles. Then we went back outside to lay in the sun and hop around in the cool pool. The pool had the largest assortment of people, ages, cultures, looks, body sizes that we all had ever seen. It was spectacular. The most fun was walking in the tiled circle of the pool, creating a whirl pool, that literally swept you off your feet in the currents. It was made as everyone walked in a circle, and soon, we were all laughing and drowning in a circle.
Most travelers were done with the spa experience after 2 hours, and i was trying not to be upset, as I had cancelled the bike tour, but about half stayed until 4, and we all were able to rest, and do our own thing.
Upon returning to the hostel, most slept, and I hopped on my skateboard to visit old haunts, visit with the bike tour people, and find us a restaurant, which amazingly I did! I skated down a random street on the way to the bike place, and looked in at this odd gravel filled bar, with multi colored garden picnic tables. It kinda reminded me of a beach bar in Mexico. In any case, I kept going to the bike place, and after I got tomorrows time locked in, I asked for advice about a dinner place. She showed me on the map where to go, and I did, and low and behold it was Kolevest....the place I saw! |I alerted them we'd be coming in an hour.
We showed up, and there was no waiter, so I played waitress, and I had NO idea what to expect, but the food was the BEST we've had all trip. Tender sirloin on a fried potato pancake with bell peppers in a balsamic dressing. ABSOLUTELY DELICIOUS. Others had a hamburger, but it was seasoned with a chili ketchup sauce, and then there was a Chicken Mozzerella with tomatoe sauce, over a lettuce. I mean, really unbelievable.
I am now, in the second apartment, waiting, waiting blogging, waiting, for them all to get ready to go out on the town. I have a huge fear that if I stop typing, I will just go to sleep...so...The weather is super hot here, and humid, we are sweating sitting still.
We are headed to Instant, a dance club 3 blocks away, then Morrisons, another 3 blocks north, and then back to Szent Istvan to a roof party which we ventured upon last year, to see the amazing lights at night.
Tomorrow, we will have the bike tour, and then free time. Before we leave at 6 am to the airport.
It is going to be hard to say goodbye, but we are already trying to figure out a date, in August when we can all be together again for the reunion party.
CANT WAIT TO COME HOME...I MISS MY FAMILY!!! and I am sure these kids miss their loved ones just as much, but gosh, its all a blur, and a wonderful time we've had...
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
We are in Prague!
Our last day in Amsterdam was mostly spent reading and sleeping in Vondelpark, we met as a group in the Amsterdam restaurant at the hostel and took the tram line 1 back to Central Station. We bought pizza for the group, with our left over euro change. All the kids boarded the train this time!
We all were out as soon as the sun went down, and we woke up to the most gorgeous view of the mountains and river as the train followed the river to Prague. The river was so glassy, I wanted to waterski on it!
At 9:30 am we woke up the kids, and at 11 we entered the Holesovice train station. It took longer to take two subways, than just walking, to our hotel. But we learned the subway system, and we also learned that the train police do not care if we are in town 10 minutes, and from America. "YOU ARE IN CZECH NOW!" they told me, as they tried to get 700kc from each kid, cuz I didn't know that not only do you have to purchase the ticket, you must validate it from this random validation machine (kinda reminded me of a movie theater, where you have no idea where the machine is). In any case, I was able to plead ignorant and we "got away". Found a tanned bum to guide us to our hostel, and found shelter in the cool entry way on Dlouha street at Traveler's Hostel. The rooms are not ready yet, so I sent the kids out to money exchange and eat, and we will meet back here at 2, pass out room keys, and then go on our 4 pm bike tour. After the bike tour, we will go to a restaurant near Wenselas Statue and National Muzeum.
There is so much to discover here, as the kids have no idea what they are in store for...All they do know is that Hitler didn't bomb it here, because he believed it to be the most beautiful city in Europe. (not that I want to admit I have any ideas in common with that man), but let's just say, there are breathtaking views. I am excited to take them across Charles Bridge, and also to the Castle!
We will go over the prices for food and drinks, so they are not taken for a ride, they also will be told not to pull out large bills. We will continue to watch your kids! Seeing them stick their heads out the train windows, and have the European air breeze through their hair, brought their youth back into their souls, a good night's sleep on the train (everyone had at least 10 hours of sleep, rocking like a baby on the train). has allowed them to feel rested.
Little Emma had a small case of tiredness, which showed in her eyes watering, and runny nose, but I haven't heard of any other cases of illness.
I will write again soon.
We all were out as soon as the sun went down, and we woke up to the most gorgeous view of the mountains and river as the train followed the river to Prague. The river was so glassy, I wanted to waterski on it!
At 9:30 am we woke up the kids, and at 11 we entered the Holesovice train station. It took longer to take two subways, than just walking, to our hotel. But we learned the subway system, and we also learned that the train police do not care if we are in town 10 minutes, and from America. "YOU ARE IN CZECH NOW!" they told me, as they tried to get 700kc from each kid, cuz I didn't know that not only do you have to purchase the ticket, you must validate it from this random validation machine (kinda reminded me of a movie theater, where you have no idea where the machine is). In any case, I was able to plead ignorant and we "got away". Found a tanned bum to guide us to our hostel, and found shelter in the cool entry way on Dlouha street at Traveler's Hostel. The rooms are not ready yet, so I sent the kids out to money exchange and eat, and we will meet back here at 2, pass out room keys, and then go on our 4 pm bike tour. After the bike tour, we will go to a restaurant near Wenselas Statue and National Muzeum.
There is so much to discover here, as the kids have no idea what they are in store for...All they do know is that Hitler didn't bomb it here, because he believed it to be the most beautiful city in Europe. (not that I want to admit I have any ideas in common with that man), but let's just say, there are breathtaking views. I am excited to take them across Charles Bridge, and also to the Castle!
We will go over the prices for food and drinks, so they are not taken for a ride, they also will be told not to pull out large bills. We will continue to watch your kids! Seeing them stick their heads out the train windows, and have the European air breeze through their hair, brought their youth back into their souls, a good night's sleep on the train (everyone had at least 10 hours of sleep, rocking like a baby on the train). has allowed them to feel rested.
Little Emma had a small case of tiredness, which showed in her eyes watering, and runny nose, but I haven't heard of any other cases of illness.
I will write again soon.
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Amsterdam
Hello!
We took the train out of Gare Du Nord in Paris, sat in two train cars, and slept or listened to ipods as the train traveled through France, Brussels and into Holland. (John stayed back in Paris with Evan and Max Groel, as they missed the train, but they boarded the next train and met us an hour later).
Upon arriving in Amsterdam, Raquel met us with tram passes, so we easily exited the train station, hopped one tram, and exited at Prisenstraat. We walked down the main strip to Keerkstraat, walked two blocks down and entered our hotels. Went straight up to our room, and dressed in white, for Sensation rave at the Amsterdam Arena. Seven of us needed to scalp tickets, and most were able to buy the tickets, only two were bad buys, but those of us who were able to get in met eachother at the right of the main dj stage and danced techno for the next five hours. We left at sunrise, took taxis back to hotel, bought food and slept until 12:30pm.
We met in the lobby at 1 pm, walked along the beautiful canals to the oldest Pancake Bakery. The pancakes were made like crepes, but everyone were able to order a different type, such as strawberries and cream, chicken, onions and cheese, greek style, nutella and peaches, and 20 other types. After everyone filled their tummies, we walked to Dam Square and only 3 wanted to take the scheduled bike tour at 4, as most people were still sore from dancing. So, the rest decided go to Van Gogh museum and Rijksmuseum. We then met in the lobby at 10:30 to walk as a group through the Red Light District, then to another dance club.
Tomorrow the plan is to visit Anne Frank's Huis, or take a four hour country bike tour, then free time to shop before we meet at 3:45 to take a 4 pm city bike tour. Then at 7 pm dinner to try the authentic Dutch meal of Hufspot (mashed meat, potatoes and carrots) which I have found to be hard to find, because most Dutch people do not enjoy Dutch food, but instead lean towards Mediterranean food.
After dinner, we plan to have our own private canal sunset boat ride for our 4th of July celebration.
All the students love Amsterdam, love the beauty of the canals and brick houses, and also the have noticed that the locals are super nice to Americans (unlike the reception they received from the Spanish and French). It is much colder here than Paris, but the sun is out, and it is not uncomfortable.
The group seems like they've become one big family, and really work well together with planning where and when to meet for their excursions.
On a side note: Raquel, (the other chaperone, who is our hotel and bus pass person, who goes to the city ahead of us to set up our rooms, gets the room keys, meets us at the train and gives us bus passes, then leads us to the hotel from the train,) brother just died, so she will be flying home on Tuesday.
John and I will be easily be able to navigate her duties, as we are working well together, and the kids are so easy, that we will have their support as well. We will miss Raquel, but we give her our blessings, as she will be her nephew's new sole parent in this loss of her brother. I hope this blog finds your families healthy, and I will continue watching your children closely, as life is precious, and I am so very thankful we have had a very enjoyable and safe trip.
I will write again when we get to Prague!
We took the train out of Gare Du Nord in Paris, sat in two train cars, and slept or listened to ipods as the train traveled through France, Brussels and into Holland. (John stayed back in Paris with Evan and Max Groel, as they missed the train, but they boarded the next train and met us an hour later).
Upon arriving in Amsterdam, Raquel met us with tram passes, so we easily exited the train station, hopped one tram, and exited at Prisenstraat. We walked down the main strip to Keerkstraat, walked two blocks down and entered our hotels. Went straight up to our room, and dressed in white, for Sensation rave at the Amsterdam Arena. Seven of us needed to scalp tickets, and most were able to buy the tickets, only two were bad buys, but those of us who were able to get in met eachother at the right of the main dj stage and danced techno for the next five hours. We left at sunrise, took taxis back to hotel, bought food and slept until 12:30pm.
We met in the lobby at 1 pm, walked along the beautiful canals to the oldest Pancake Bakery. The pancakes were made like crepes, but everyone were able to order a different type, such as strawberries and cream, chicken, onions and cheese, greek style, nutella and peaches, and 20 other types. After everyone filled their tummies, we walked to Dam Square and only 3 wanted to take the scheduled bike tour at 4, as most people were still sore from dancing. So, the rest decided go to Van Gogh museum and Rijksmuseum. We then met in the lobby at 10:30 to walk as a group through the Red Light District, then to another dance club.
Tomorrow the plan is to visit Anne Frank's Huis, or take a four hour country bike tour, then free time to shop before we meet at 3:45 to take a 4 pm city bike tour. Then at 7 pm dinner to try the authentic Dutch meal of Hufspot (mashed meat, potatoes and carrots) which I have found to be hard to find, because most Dutch people do not enjoy Dutch food, but instead lean towards Mediterranean food.
After dinner, we plan to have our own private canal sunset boat ride for our 4th of July celebration.
All the students love Amsterdam, love the beauty of the canals and brick houses, and also the have noticed that the locals are super nice to Americans (unlike the reception they received from the Spanish and French). It is much colder here than Paris, but the sun is out, and it is not uncomfortable.
The group seems like they've become one big family, and really work well together with planning where and when to meet for their excursions.
On a side note: Raquel, (the other chaperone, who is our hotel and bus pass person, who goes to the city ahead of us to set up our rooms, gets the room keys, meets us at the train and gives us bus passes, then leads us to the hotel from the train,) brother just died, so she will be flying home on Tuesday.
John and I will be easily be able to navigate her duties, as we are working well together, and the kids are so easy, that we will have their support as well. We will miss Raquel, but we give her our blessings, as she will be her nephew's new sole parent in this loss of her brother. I hope this blog finds your families healthy, and I will continue watching your children closely, as life is precious, and I am so very thankful we have had a very enjoyable and safe trip.
I will write again when we get to Prague!
Friday, July 1, 2011
Bon Jour Paree
Hello All;
So it hqs just tqken ,e 5 minutes to log onto this foreign keyboqrd at an internet cafe around the corner fro, our hotel: Forgive the spelling errors, but the keyboard is different and Im being chqrged to fix them. LOL;
We arrived in Paris at the austilitz train station right after 12. Raquel greeted us with fresh nectarines. As the kids enjoyed the sweetness; we walked to the subway; took it straight to the hotel: only had to walk a few blocks. i wqtched as the kids looked around them in awe:
Our rooms were not reqdy, so they went out and found some food. then came back to rooms of 2 qnd 3 beds.
We had an hour to get ready for the eiffel tower walked 3 blocks to the grassy area under the towers shadow: they appeased me with a round of council and we shared about our best memories so far (throwing chips on Groel, chest while he was sleeping so the pigeons would jump on him,), and our regrets: (packing too much and sleeping in for the Dali tour zere the top 2):
then the kids ran up the stairs to the eiffel and ,et at 7 to go on a four hour bike ride with a new york tour guide named Simon: it was wonderful to ride down st germain under the tree lined bouvelards: no accidents, and no run in with taxis, just one or two red lights and honking horns: there are many more mopeds here then i remember from previous tours: the last hour of the tour was a boat ride on teh river Seine: we begqn at 10 qnd were able to pass the Ile De La Cite and view Saint Chapelle and Notre Dqme from a south view. On the turn back up the river it was dark and we watched the eiffel tower light up and twinkle; i took tons of pictures as their Paris excitement was growing. After the tour, it was close to midnight and that is when the anxiety set in.
Even though it was midnight and My body was ready for bed? they had other ideas. Our hotel; unfortunately had a 1-7 am curfew where the front doors would be locked: Oh how i watched them scurry around like ants trying to find ways around this rule. Alas, they were all in by 1.
The next morning we met as a group we passed out 2 day subway passes, i tqught them the subway system zhich zqs very similiar to Barcelona. and brought them on a subway to Notre Dame. We took a couple group pictures and everyone went inside.
Then they grouped up and some went to the Louvre; so,e to teh Pompidou. some to the Musee D,Orsay; some strolled down Des Champs elysees. We qll met back at the hotel at 7 and took the subway up to Montmartre to have dinner in teh famous Plce du Tertre zhere the painters and portraits are done. After Marlee sang to us at dinner; sang to the restaurant actually. and Alex and Justine danced with the Parisian host DJa nice lovely two step, we got gelatos and walked to the steps of Sacre Couer to watch teh beautiful view of the city and watch the City of Lights actually turn into the City of Lights/ As we were waiting; there was a soccor expert doing the ,ost a,azing tricks with a soccer ball while on a fence 200 feet above teh ground. amazing; ask your kid about that one:
We then took a walk down Boulevardde Clichy where all the sex shops are to see the Moulin Rouge. I think we lost some boys in the shows? but by this time I just had my eyes on the girls. I brought them safely back to the hotel before our 1 am curfew.
The next morning? today, Raquel has taken 11 kids to Versailles; 5 will follow later (they wanted to sleep in° and I FINALLY SLEPT IN? qctuqlly? I greeted them at 9 am then went bqck to sleep. I hqd a little time to write this before i tqke q group to Pere Lachaise; a cemetary where Jim Morrison and Edith Piaf are buried:
Tonight q few kids want to try the steak restaurant Entre Cote; and others want to sleep:
Tomorrow we will meet in teh lobby with our bags at check out at 10 go eat lunch at a cafe. then board an afternoon train to Amsterdam.
Afgain? i am sorry i havent written. its hard to get away; or actually its hard to leave teh fun:
but i knoz you all want to hear how happy they are. again i need to say that this is the best group ive brought: you reqlly shuld be pourd of the adults you have raised: thank you for such an easy time.
What a beautiful adventure teh kids have been having in Paris!
I qm sick that i cqnt edit this; but i am now at 41 minutes§§§§§
Au Revoir
So it hqs just tqken ,e 5 minutes to log onto this foreign keyboqrd at an internet cafe around the corner fro, our hotel: Forgive the spelling errors, but the keyboard is different and Im being chqrged to fix them. LOL;
We arrived in Paris at the austilitz train station right after 12. Raquel greeted us with fresh nectarines. As the kids enjoyed the sweetness; we walked to the subway; took it straight to the hotel: only had to walk a few blocks. i wqtched as the kids looked around them in awe:
Our rooms were not reqdy, so they went out and found some food. then came back to rooms of 2 qnd 3 beds.
We had an hour to get ready for the eiffel tower walked 3 blocks to the grassy area under the towers shadow: they appeased me with a round of council and we shared about our best memories so far (throwing chips on Groel, chest while he was sleeping so the pigeons would jump on him,), and our regrets: (packing too much and sleeping in for the Dali tour zere the top 2):
then the kids ran up the stairs to the eiffel and ,et at 7 to go on a four hour bike ride with a new york tour guide named Simon: it was wonderful to ride down st germain under the tree lined bouvelards: no accidents, and no run in with taxis, just one or two red lights and honking horns: there are many more mopeds here then i remember from previous tours: the last hour of the tour was a boat ride on teh river Seine: we begqn at 10 qnd were able to pass the Ile De La Cite and view Saint Chapelle and Notre Dqme from a south view. On the turn back up the river it was dark and we watched the eiffel tower light up and twinkle; i took tons of pictures as their Paris excitement was growing. After the tour, it was close to midnight and that is when the anxiety set in.
Even though it was midnight and My body was ready for bed? they had other ideas. Our hotel; unfortunately had a 1-7 am curfew where the front doors would be locked: Oh how i watched them scurry around like ants trying to find ways around this rule. Alas, they were all in by 1.
The next morning we met as a group we passed out 2 day subway passes, i tqught them the subway system zhich zqs very similiar to Barcelona. and brought them on a subway to Notre Dame. We took a couple group pictures and everyone went inside.
Then they grouped up and some went to the Louvre; so,e to teh Pompidou. some to the Musee D,Orsay; some strolled down Des Champs elysees. We qll met back at the hotel at 7 and took the subway up to Montmartre to have dinner in teh famous Plce du Tertre zhere the painters and portraits are done. After Marlee sang to us at dinner; sang to the restaurant actually. and Alex and Justine danced with the Parisian host DJa nice lovely two step, we got gelatos and walked to the steps of Sacre Couer to watch teh beautiful view of the city and watch the City of Lights actually turn into the City of Lights/ As we were waiting; there was a soccor expert doing the ,ost a,azing tricks with a soccer ball while on a fence 200 feet above teh ground. amazing; ask your kid about that one:
We then took a walk down Boulevardde Clichy where all the sex shops are to see the Moulin Rouge. I think we lost some boys in the shows? but by this time I just had my eyes on the girls. I brought them safely back to the hotel before our 1 am curfew.
The next morning? today, Raquel has taken 11 kids to Versailles; 5 will follow later (they wanted to sleep in° and I FINALLY SLEPT IN? qctuqlly? I greeted them at 9 am then went bqck to sleep. I hqd a little time to write this before i tqke q group to Pere Lachaise; a cemetary where Jim Morrison and Edith Piaf are buried:
Tonight q few kids want to try the steak restaurant Entre Cote; and others want to sleep:
Tomorrow we will meet in teh lobby with our bags at check out at 10 go eat lunch at a cafe. then board an afternoon train to Amsterdam.
Afgain? i am sorry i havent written. its hard to get away; or actually its hard to leave teh fun:
but i knoz you all want to hear how happy they are. again i need to say that this is the best group ive brought: you reqlly shuld be pourd of the adults you have raised: thank you for such an easy time.
What a beautiful adventure teh kids have been having in Paris!
I qm sick that i cqnt edit this; but i am now at 41 minutes§§§§§
Au Revoir
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Last Day in Barcelona
It´s an undecisive morning/afternoon.
Only 6 made it for the 7am wake-up call to go to the Dali Museum. The rest barely made it for the 9:30 check out wake up call. Seems that they decided to make their last night in Barcelona memorable, and visited in room 402 until sunrise. The laughter could be heard from the first floor, but it seems the night desk watch is used to such hoolabaloo, as they were never asked to stop their fun and games.
I did hear one of the boys say that missing the Dali would be a regret of his life, and so I suggested that they try to still accomplish the feat, if they took the 11:25 train to Figerous and then have a shortened visit inside the museum by 3 pm, they could still make our 7 pm meeting time to catch our night train to Paris. The idea was thought about, but the fear that the line to get inside the museum would be too long, so they decided to take Mr. Keenan´s advice and visit Casa Mila, a Gaudi house.
I watched them head down Carrer de Ferran as I headed in to write this blog. We decided to wait for the Dali 6 and then will walk up to visit Parc Guell a park designed by Gaudi. All legs are worn out, so we will see how our planned naps in the park rejuvevante us to walk back for our meeting time.
I will bbm Gwen to make a call that we made it to the Paris hotel without any difficulties. We are expected to arrive the Paris Austerlitz train station at 12:20 pm. Wed. June 30th, after a 15 hour train ride, just in time for a full day of: check in, Eiffel Tower, Bike Tour, Night Seine River Boat ride.
Only 6 made it for the 7am wake-up call to go to the Dali Museum. The rest barely made it for the 9:30 check out wake up call. Seems that they decided to make their last night in Barcelona memorable, and visited in room 402 until sunrise. The laughter could be heard from the first floor, but it seems the night desk watch is used to such hoolabaloo, as they were never asked to stop their fun and games.
I did hear one of the boys say that missing the Dali would be a regret of his life, and so I suggested that they try to still accomplish the feat, if they took the 11:25 train to Figerous and then have a shortened visit inside the museum by 3 pm, they could still make our 7 pm meeting time to catch our night train to Paris. The idea was thought about, but the fear that the line to get inside the museum would be too long, so they decided to take Mr. Keenan´s advice and visit Casa Mila, a Gaudi house.
I watched them head down Carrer de Ferran as I headed in to write this blog. We decided to wait for the Dali 6 and then will walk up to visit Parc Guell a park designed by Gaudi. All legs are worn out, so we will see how our planned naps in the park rejuvevante us to walk back for our meeting time.
I will bbm Gwen to make a call that we made it to the Paris hotel without any difficulties. We are expected to arrive the Paris Austerlitz train station at 12:20 pm. Wed. June 30th, after a 15 hour train ride, just in time for a full day of: check in, Eiffel Tower, Bike Tour, Night Seine River Boat ride.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Day 4 Barcelona Beach
Hola!
What a day! It is 10 pm here, but the sun just set 30 minutes ago, so it feels like 7 pm.
All the kids were in the lobby at noon for a group trip to the beach. We decided against Sitges, as they found out it was a homosexual nude beach (mostly old men)...Evan and Ashli mentioned a Tosa Del Mar beach, but it was a different train and 15 euro round trip, so we decided to use our metro subway passes and took a red bus line to the beach....only to discover it was the same beach the bike tour led us to. So, we found a different beach 10 minutes up the yellow subway line to Porblenue (sp?) and found a less populated beach. Again, the water was warm and everyone was able to layout and rest for awhile...then the tummies started getting hungry and so they walked up the avenue and bought falafels.
After the beach, most decided to clean up, walk around Barcelona more and since they had spread out to about 5 groups, they wanted to try to get everyone together for dinner.
Saba´s cousin introduced them to a Tapas restaurant, but it was too expensive, so they found directions close to the hotel of a street of tapas, so we are all headed for dinner there (yes it is after 10 pm!).
Tomorrow we will take a train to Figures and discover the Dali Museum and castle on the hill.
From all of my experience (Ty) of traveling with kids. This is the nicest group ever. They are thankful, excited, motivated to see, relaxed about missed busses, or walking the wrong way for blocks, and the most respectful of tour meeting times. I am really happy with their attitudes and their longevity to last dancing all night and walking all day. (it is only the 4th day, but SO FAR SO GOOD!)
Haven´t heard any juicy gossip, but I guess, even if I had, I probably shouldn´t tell ya all....
Please comment on these blogs to let me know you are reading them, and what other kind of information you would like to know!
What a day! It is 10 pm here, but the sun just set 30 minutes ago, so it feels like 7 pm.
All the kids were in the lobby at noon for a group trip to the beach. We decided against Sitges, as they found out it was a homosexual nude beach (mostly old men)...Evan and Ashli mentioned a Tosa Del Mar beach, but it was a different train and 15 euro round trip, so we decided to use our metro subway passes and took a red bus line to the beach....only to discover it was the same beach the bike tour led us to. So, we found a different beach 10 minutes up the yellow subway line to Porblenue (sp?) and found a less populated beach. Again, the water was warm and everyone was able to layout and rest for awhile...then the tummies started getting hungry and so they walked up the avenue and bought falafels.
After the beach, most decided to clean up, walk around Barcelona more and since they had spread out to about 5 groups, they wanted to try to get everyone together for dinner.
Saba´s cousin introduced them to a Tapas restaurant, but it was too expensive, so they found directions close to the hotel of a street of tapas, so we are all headed for dinner there (yes it is after 10 pm!).
Tomorrow we will take a train to Figures and discover the Dali Museum and castle on the hill.
From all of my experience (Ty) of traveling with kids. This is the nicest group ever. They are thankful, excited, motivated to see, relaxed about missed busses, or walking the wrong way for blocks, and the most respectful of tour meeting times. I am really happy with their attitudes and their longevity to last dancing all night and walking all day. (it is only the 4th day, but SO FAR SO GOOD!)
Haven´t heard any juicy gossip, but I guess, even if I had, I probably shouldn´t tell ya all....
Please comment on these blogs to let me know you are reading them, and what other kind of information you would like to know!
Barcelona Bike Ride
Hello all!
I have not been able to use the internet, as everytime I have 10 minutes, the computers in the lobby are taken. There are sooooo many tourists in Barcelona. We have met so many people, a majority are from Ireland and Australia.
Yesterday morning, all the kids met on time in the lobby at 10 am. We walked a few blocks to the bike tour location, split into two groups, received a beach cruiser, and then enjoyed a FOUR hour bike ride around town. It was super easy to navigate through the streets, as it was Sunday and the streets are mainly one way streets. We were able to see the La Familia Sagada, the Arc de Triomphe, gorgeous parks, and other Gaudi structures. The catedrals are beautiful stone buildings, and the stories from the tour guide were interesting. Lots of political stories about the religious wars. The end of the bike tour took us down to the beach, and we were able to have a nice lunch and cool drink. After getting back from the tour, everyone decided to go back to the beach, so they walked down La Rambla and were able to get in the Mediterranean Sea. Perfect 72 degree water, and little waves, and were able to walk out a ways before it got too deep.
After the beach everyone met at 8pm for a group dinner at a local restaurant for Paella. We had our own room to ourselves and there were 10 at long tables. It was nice to relax with the group!
After dinner everyone decided on a Pub Crawl. Miss Ty´s luggage finally arrived to the hotel at midnight (dide we mention she had been in the same clothes for almost 3 days?)
In any case, it was an excellent first full day in Barcelona, Espana!
I have not been able to use the internet, as everytime I have 10 minutes, the computers in the lobby are taken. There are sooooo many tourists in Barcelona. We have met so many people, a majority are from Ireland and Australia.
Yesterday morning, all the kids met on time in the lobby at 10 am. We walked a few blocks to the bike tour location, split into two groups, received a beach cruiser, and then enjoyed a FOUR hour bike ride around town. It was super easy to navigate through the streets, as it was Sunday and the streets are mainly one way streets. We were able to see the La Familia Sagada, the Arc de Triomphe, gorgeous parks, and other Gaudi structures. The catedrals are beautiful stone buildings, and the stories from the tour guide were interesting. Lots of political stories about the religious wars. The end of the bike tour took us down to the beach, and we were able to have a nice lunch and cool drink. After getting back from the tour, everyone decided to go back to the beach, so they walked down La Rambla and were able to get in the Mediterranean Sea. Perfect 72 degree water, and little waves, and were able to walk out a ways before it got too deep.
After the beach everyone met at 8pm for a group dinner at a local restaurant for Paella. We had our own room to ourselves and there were 10 at long tables. It was nice to relax with the group!
After dinner everyone decided on a Pub Crawl. Miss Ty´s luggage finally arrived to the hotel at midnight (dide we mention she had been in the same clothes for almost 3 days?)
In any case, it was an excellent first full day in Barcelona, Espana!
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Flights to Barcelona
Greetings from Barcelona!
We have all arrived safely to the Sun and Moon Hostel in Barcelona.
I am happy to announce that all travelers met their tour guides at the set meeting time at the Los Angeles airport. The nine hour flight from LAX to LHR was quite long, but most were able to watch three movies: Rango, Just Go With It with Adam Sandler and No Strings Attached were the top 3 most watched movies. After changing body positions over a hundred times, 15 minutes here and there of sleep, and two meals, travelers arrived London with little turbulence. Ty and Johns American Airlines flight to Barcelona was actually a British Airlines flight, so Raquel´s group and Ty and John´s group were able to meet in the London Airport, and were able to hang out together in the lounge waiting for our perspective flights from London to Barcelona. The Barcelona flight was less than 2 hours, and the French and Spanish countrysides were visible the whole route from the airplane window, such beautifully green mountainous landscape! Then we saw the Spanish coast.
It was super easy to collect luggage, go downstairs and then board a bus which took us to the main part of the main street of La Rambla. We then exited the bus and walked down the center of La Rambla. It was heavily packed with people, sales vendors and gypsies. We stayed in a tight pack, and made it to our hotel without any weird incidence. Our hotel is down from a Mc Donalds and Kentucky Fried Chicken.
Students raced up to their rooms to shower and clean up for the evening out. Boys are sharing dorm rooms with eight beds and one shower each, girls have rooms of 6 beds and a shower. Then met downstairs within an hour. Imagine25 kids showering and there was enough hot water! So, survey agreed that this was a good hotel!
The kids looked ready to dance all night, after first looking for a quick meal.
Tomorrow´s agenda includes a bike tour of the city, a group dinner and another night out.
Barcelona has small alley streets, and many turns, huge squares and boxes of trash in every crevice. This is a bustling city and the area of our hotel is smack center in the action. Very reminiscent of Venice, but more decrepit...that doesn´t sound beautiful, but it has been dark out since we arrived, so the sunshine may bring a different atmosphere tomorrow.
Salute for now.
We have all arrived safely to the Sun and Moon Hostel in Barcelona.
I am happy to announce that all travelers met their tour guides at the set meeting time at the Los Angeles airport. The nine hour flight from LAX to LHR was quite long, but most were able to watch three movies: Rango, Just Go With It with Adam Sandler and No Strings Attached were the top 3 most watched movies. After changing body positions over a hundred times, 15 minutes here and there of sleep, and two meals, travelers arrived London with little turbulence. Ty and Johns American Airlines flight to Barcelona was actually a British Airlines flight, so Raquel´s group and Ty and John´s group were able to meet in the London Airport, and were able to hang out together in the lounge waiting for our perspective flights from London to Barcelona. The Barcelona flight was less than 2 hours, and the French and Spanish countrysides were visible the whole route from the airplane window, such beautifully green mountainous landscape! Then we saw the Spanish coast.
It was super easy to collect luggage, go downstairs and then board a bus which took us to the main part of the main street of La Rambla. We then exited the bus and walked down the center of La Rambla. It was heavily packed with people, sales vendors and gypsies. We stayed in a tight pack, and made it to our hotel without any weird incidence. Our hotel is down from a Mc Donalds and Kentucky Fried Chicken.
Students raced up to their rooms to shower and clean up for the evening out. Boys are sharing dorm rooms with eight beds and one shower each, girls have rooms of 6 beds and a shower. Then met downstairs within an hour. Imagine25 kids showering and there was enough hot water! So, survey agreed that this was a good hotel!
The kids looked ready to dance all night, after first looking for a quick meal.
Tomorrow´s agenda includes a bike tour of the city, a group dinner and another night out.
Barcelona has small alley streets, and many turns, huge squares and boxes of trash in every crevice. This is a bustling city and the area of our hotel is smack center in the action. Very reminiscent of Venice, but more decrepit...that doesn´t sound beautiful, but it has been dark out since we arrived, so the sunshine may bring a different atmosphere tomorrow.
Salute for now.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Currency Exchange and PLAN OF ACTION
Hello all.
It is wise to have some euros in your pocket upon arrival in Barcelona.
There is a currency exchange office on 4th and Broadway, under the parking structure, door facing 4th street. In Barcelona, Paris and Amsterdam you will be using Euros to pay. In Prague, the currency is Koruna and in Budapest the currency is Hufs or Forint and is abbreviated as Ft. or HUF.
Below are the currency exchange rates as of today.
Also, unless you have a credit card without any transfer fees, it is best to have cash as your paying method at all restaurants, vendors and stores.
Bank atms will beable to give you cash from your atm card, and it is wise to withdrawl the maximum amount, as there will be transfer fees from the foreign atm and from your bank. These withdrawl amounts do add up.
We will be passing money exchange booths at all times in all cities, but, upon arrival at train stations, if you plan to buy a water, fruit or snacks before we hit a money exchange booth, please get some Korunas (CZK), Forints (HUF) and euros before departing LAX.
Example: I plan to bring one thousand dollars spending.
I am going to go to the Santa Monica store and change 700 into Euros and 150 into Hufs and 150 into Korunas. Then I am going to keep my money in my wallet, which I will put in a zipper pocket, inside my cross body purse which i will never set down (and when sleeping I will put the wallet in my pillow case. (yes I am bringing a down pillow which I can roll up and put inside my duffel bag). As you can see, I will never have to exchange any money, unless I plan to change my leftover euros into Hufs or Czks, and I will stay on budget, not paying any bank transfer fees.
As a traveler, it is very important that you have a plan of action for your money. One year a traveler's atm card was eaten by the machine. He did NOT have a second plan of action, and had to borrow from his friends ( I believe he still owes me money...) Also, one year a traveler never stopped at a money exchange booth, and didn't have money for lunch. Another traveler lost their wallet, and did not have money stashed in a hiding place in suitcase, or access to a bank card.
Please be aware that the fear of "gypsies" is real, and there are many areas in Barcelona where we will forbid you to walk through, as they know where tourists keep their stash. There are also hotel room cleaners who will go through your luggage, so please have locks to put onto your duffel bag zippers when out of the room.
if you have any other questions about traveling with money, please post a comment, so we can help you figure out your personal plan of action for your money.
.
It is wise to have some euros in your pocket upon arrival in Barcelona.
There is a currency exchange office on 4th and Broadway, under the parking structure, door facing 4th street. In Barcelona, Paris and Amsterdam you will be using Euros to pay. In Prague, the currency is Koruna and in Budapest the currency is Hufs or Forint and is abbreviated as Ft. or HUF.
Below are the currency exchange rates as of today.
Also, unless you have a credit card without any transfer fees, it is best to have cash as your paying method at all restaurants, vendors and stores.
Bank atms will beable to give you cash from your atm card, and it is wise to withdrawl the maximum amount, as there will be transfer fees from the foreign atm and from your bank. These withdrawl amounts do add up.
We will be passing money exchange booths at all times in all cities, but, upon arrival at train stations, if you plan to buy a water, fruit or snacks before we hit a money exchange booth, please get some Korunas (CZK), Forints (HUF) and euros before departing LAX.
Example: I plan to bring one thousand dollars spending.
I am going to go to the Santa Monica store and change 700 into Euros and 150 into Hufs and 150 into Korunas. Then I am going to keep my money in my wallet, which I will put in a zipper pocket, inside my cross body purse which i will never set down (and when sleeping I will put the wallet in my pillow case. (yes I am bringing a down pillow which I can roll up and put inside my duffel bag). As you can see, I will never have to exchange any money, unless I plan to change my leftover euros into Hufs or Czks, and I will stay on budget, not paying any bank transfer fees.
As a traveler, it is very important that you have a plan of action for your money. One year a traveler's atm card was eaten by the machine. He did NOT have a second plan of action, and had to borrow from his friends ( I believe he still owes me money...) Also, one year a traveler never stopped at a money exchange booth, and didn't have money for lunch. Another traveler lost their wallet, and did not have money stashed in a hiding place in suitcase, or access to a bank card.
Please be aware that the fear of "gypsies" is real, and there are many areas in Barcelona where we will forbid you to walk through, as they know where tourists keep their stash. There are also hotel room cleaners who will go through your luggage, so please have locks to put onto your duffel bag zippers when out of the room.
if you have any other questions about traveling with money, please post a comment, so we can help you figure out your personal plan of action for your money.
.
| 1.00 USD | = | 0.703591 EUR |
| 1.00 USD | = | 17.0180 CZK
|
Sunday, June 12, 2011
4th of July Preview
Hey Elves,
We booked our Fourth of July Private Sunset Canal Boat in Amsterdam.
Who can sneak the fireworks in their duffel bag? Just Kidding....
Alex? just kidding?
Justin? just kidding!
10 days and counting!
We booked our Fourth of July Private Sunset Canal Boat in Amsterdam.
Who can sneak the fireworks in their duffel bag? Just Kidding....
Alex? just kidding?
Justin? just kidding!
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Water Bottles and T-Shirts
Have you received your water bottles? Blake was given a box full, go see him, for your bottle. and t-shirt? Evan was given the t-shirts.
I am starting to get really excited, mentally packing and thinking about calling Verizon to get my phone ready, going to get my money exchanged, looking up restaurants I want to try to eat at in Paris, and also finding a Party cruise barge for our 4th of July evening in Amsterdam.
Please email us if you have any last minute packing questions. Remember, look at who you are bunking with, and figure out who is packing the blow dryer, shampoo bottle, 2 prong plug adapter, and tour guide books.
Also, is anyone planning to bring a skateboard? If we all are, that's great, but if Tylene and John start skating away from everyone, how will you keep up? LOL
Totally excited. Also, is anyone planning on a movie night to watch Taken or Hostel?
See you at the airport!
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Santa Monica Bike Ride
Some say they know how to ride a bike, but it is a completely different experience when riding in a group of 25 on streets. To prepare our travelers for all of our bike tours in Europe, we will be meeting at station 25 at 11 am. Bike south to Washington Blvd, north on Washington to Abbot Kinney, stopping at a pizza place for lunch, then follow the leader back through Venice side streets to our starting point. This short tour will allow students the fun and excitement, on a smaller scale, than what is expected in Europe. Remember, in Europe we will be stopping and taking pictures often, listening to a tour guide about historical monuments, and most importantly, being honked at by local Spaniards or Hungarians, so we need to practice sticking together as a group!
This is not just a "twintig elf" ride, all parents, friends and family are also invited!
We will also be passing out your water bottles and t-shirts.
If you are NOT planning on joining us, can you please email linesoflatitude@gmail.com so we do not wait for you to show up at 11.
We will be stopping to get pizza, so bring some cash, a bike helmut (lol) and your smiles! It's our first official bike ride together!!!!
See you Saturday!
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