The Swiss Alps

   
     Our world is filled with so much natural beauty. Jerry and I had the pleasure to witness the magnificence of the Swiss Alps. When you are above the clouds there is nothing but peace, quiet and a few birds. Snow capped peaks surround you as you breathe in the fresh mountain air. Nothing is more relaxing or more satisfying to behold.

  

   When you are on top of the world there is very little that goes through your mind, with the exception of a  frequent "wow." We stayed in the stunning area of Switzerland known as Rochers de Naye. All that existed in our little mountain escape was our hotel and the Alps. 

     I highly advise anyone to enhance their perspective of the world with a journey like this. It is one you will not likely forget. 

Dachau Concentration Camp

 

   Our travels have recently brought us to a WWII concentration camp in Dachau, just minutes outside of Munich, Germany. The camp gives you eerie insight to the life of a prisoner of the camp during the war. WWII had a huge influence on our world. Visiting a place like Dachau allows you to better understand the horrors of the war and the impact it had on Europe. By the height of the war, Dachau was holding more than 3 times the number of prisoners it was built to hold, making living conditions cramped and uncomfortable.

Sleeping Chambers

     The total death toll of Dachau has been undetermined, however it is in the estimated number of casualties is around 32,000. Visiting the camps' crematorium is as enlightening as it is spooky. Connected to the room with the furnace is the notorious gas chamber. Connected to that is the waiting room where prisoners were told that they were waiting to shower. So, the first room is the waiting room, followed by the gas chamber, followed by the crematorium. They burned them almost as quickly as they died. The feeling of tragedy is in the air, and it really makes you want to leave. Just outside though, you are greeted by flowery mass graves. Not very welcoming either. Although sad, I highly advise visiting Dachau. Admission is free, the experience is priceless. 

It is written that some prisoners were hanged on the wooden beams and then  immediately tossed into the furnace. 

Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castles

     Bavaria, Germany is a gorgeous place, a region with high mountains, glistening lakes and the most beautiful castles. Neuschwanstein is perhaps the most incredible castle in Germany. Although not as old as most castles, as it was built in the 1800's, the Fairy tale King Ludwig II had this castle built but died before it was finished. It was almost immediately turned into a museum, which according to the guide, remains 85% original. The only way to visit the castles interior is by guided tour, which I highly recommend. No photos allowed.
     The castle courtyard and gate is completely free and is a beautiful hike up the mountain, only about 30 minutes. You can also walk all around the castle for free and take in the scenic Bavarian Alps.

Castle Gate

Castle Courtyard

Castle Courtyard 

     King Maximilian, father of Ludwig II had built a castle in the same region before Neuschanstein, which was designed to be a better castle. The castle is named Hohenschwangau, and although not as immaculate as Neuschwanstein, it is still amazing. 

      Each castle can be seen from each others battlements. Hohenschwangau's interior is also only available as a guided tour. Walking the walls and gardens is free though.

Hohenschwangau surrounded by mountains as seen from Neischwanstein. 

  

Segovia, Spain

 

      If you enjoy places that come right out of a fantasy novel, Segovia, Spain is the perfect place for you. This magnificent town is laced with old Roman walls and a gorgeous country side. In addition to this is the immense Roman Aqueduct, which runs right through the busy town center and joins the tall walls that run throughout the city.

     The real highlight of this trip though was the Alcazar of Segovia. This is a huge castle that stands on an outcrop of rock overlooking the town. Entering the castle is a wonderful experience. You get to walk the battlements, view the armory, climb the keep and even do deep in to the castles' Roman foundations. The top of the keep gives you the best view of Segovia. Another great view comes from the opposite end, where the castle sticks out over the rock like the great mast of a ship.

Madrid, Spain

      Madrid, Spain is a wonderful city that is just so alive. I have not yet visited a city as animated as Madrid. And the livelihood of this city is authentic with a nice blend of locals and travelers, since the city has very little to offer in regards to tourism. The streets of the city are full of restaurants and shops tempting you with the smells of paella and Bocadillo de Calamares, a scrumptious fried calamari sandwich and must-eat of Madrid. When evening falls and it cools down, you have to treat yourself to Madrid's specialty, hot chocolate. Its like drinking a a melted version of the best chocolate in the world. Simply amazing.

      The San Miguel market is a great place to stumble into. There you can walk the stalls, and for only a few euros you can sample all the flavors of Madrid, shrimp ceviche, pastries, mojitos, shell fish, you name it. Beyond the active city center, the sights of Madrid are few, making them easy to explore and quickly so you can get back to eating. Here they are:

Almudena Cathedral

Royal Palace of Madrid

Plaza Mayor

The People of France

     I thought that I should take a minute to help crush the nasty stereotype about the French people being snobs. Since we first arrived in France, 99% of the people have been wonderful, helpful and genuine. You are guaranteed to come across rude people anywhere you go, but Americans seem to think that the French hate us. I have been here for two months and not one person has scowled at me or treated me differently because I am American. At any point that I needed help, it was easy to find, and they are more than happy to help me along with my French. They seem to like it actually.
     I need to say it one more time, read it and pass it on. The French people are nice and do not hate Americans! That is all.

An Anthony Hopkins look-alike enjoys a meal in Paris. 

Paris, France: Part 2

 
  If you wish to whiteness true beauty during your stay in Paris, spend a few hours of your trip to visit the Palace of Versailles. This palace has been inhabited by several members of French royalty throughout history and is laced with hundreds of gorgeous works of art fit to pleasure Kings. The best paintings are found on the ceilings of the the halls of the palace.  

When you go to Versailles, prepare to take your time strolling through the vast halls and gorgeous garden that surrounds the palace.

     Another incredible attraction of Paris is the river Seine. The Seine runs through the cities heart, making it perfect for an afternoon walk or an evening dinner cruise through The City of Lights. Enjoy a three course meal while you are slowly drifted past many famous sites of Paris, including the Statue of Liberty and the Eiffel Tower. The cathedral of Notre Dame and the Louvre are also visible form the river. 

     Paris is always a good choice when traveling because there is so much to do. Unless you plan on spending weeks there, you cannot possibly do it all.... so why not spend weeks in Paris? 

Château de Chenonceau

   

      Chenonceau is easily the most beautiful castle that I have visited in my journeys. The chateau is built over Le Cher river and is amazingly gorgeous. Chenonceau was the preferred choice of several Kings of France and their Queens, including Catherine di Medici. Being located in central France, Chenonceau is only 2 hours away from Paris, and even closer to several other large French cities such as Orleans and Tours.

Chenonceau is surrounded by two enormous gardens, a few restaurants and a hedge maze. A visit to the castle and its' grounds is an experience you will never forget.