https://vikinghomelands.blog/2017/06/06/first-blog-post/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/cropped-boat1.jpgcropped boat2023-01-13T02:59:20+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2017/06/11/getting-settled-in-stockholm/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_6944-2.jpgIMG_6944 (2)https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_6954.jpgIMG_6954https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_6952.jpgIMG_6952https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_6946.jpgIMG_6946https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_6942.jpgIMG_6942https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_6933.jpgIMG_6933https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_6932.jpgIMG_6932https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_6931.jpgIMG_6931https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_6926.jpgIMG_69262023-01-13T02:57:09+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2017/06/12/scoping-out-stockholm/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7041.jpgIMG_7041That same park has a huge fountain in the middle that served as its centerpiece.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7062-2.jpgIMG_7062 (2)Each group of pre-schoolers had different colored vests. These teachers had come up with a great system for keeping their kids in tow.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7049.jpgIMG_7049We stumbled across a huge park in the middle of Old Town and there was a raised stage there where a man and woman were on stage leading singing and dancing for many groups of pre-schoolers and their teachers. The kids were adorable.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7091.jpgIMG_7091https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7090.jpgIMG_7090https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7086.jpgIMG_7086This stately old sailing vessek was in the picturesque waterway directly across from our ship. It was so majestic.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7079.jpgIMG_7079https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7073.jpgIMG_7073Stately trash cans!https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7070.jpgIMG_7070One of the bridges over the many waterways in the city.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7064.jpgIMG_7064And of course the gardens are beginning to flower and they are stunning.2023-01-13T02:54:37+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2017/06/12/heading-to-helsinki/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7134.jpgIMG_7134But we managed to navigate around this little storm and soon it was gone.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7132.jpgIMG_7132When the sun started to go down, some really mean clouds came up and looked very threatening.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7114.jpgIMG_7114https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7107.jpgIMG_7107https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7103.jpgIMG_7103And then this huge ship headed right for us! It was touch and go for a few minutes but they eventually managed to miss us.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7101.jpgIMG_7101https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7100.jpgIMG_7100https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7096.jpgIMG_70962023-01-13T02:53:22+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2017/06/13/cloudy-helsinki/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7186.jpgIMG_7186https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7211.jpgIMG_7211https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_72011.jpgIMG_7201https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7195.jpgIMG_7195https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7193.jpgIMG_7193https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7191.jpgIMG_7191https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7217.jpgIMG_7217At her request, Chuck took our tour guide's photo wearing the new Finland cap she bought in the square. https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7212.jpgIMG_7212https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7210.jpgIMG_7210https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7208.jpgIMG_7208I thought this seal had the most spot-on message.2023-01-13T02:52:21+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2017/06/15/st-petersburg-day-1/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7403.jpgIMG_7403The front of the museum after crossing the courtyard.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7338.jpgIMG_7338The entrance to the beautiful Russian Museum.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7431-2.jpgIMG_7431 (2)This huge painting of a storm at sea captured everyone's attention.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7449.jpgIMG_7449https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7448.jpgIMG_7448This is a very discrete grocery market. Every one we've seen looks exactly like this one.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7437.jpgIMG_7437I loved this sculpture of a mother helping her baby learn to walk.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7429.jpgIMG_7429Isn't this ornate frame just amazing?https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7427.jpgIMG_7427They even had some incredible pieces of furniture.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7406.jpgIMG_7406The eyes on this statue of Peter I are almost eerie. If you look closely, you'll see that the pupils in the eyes are actually heart shaped.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7391.jpgIMG_7391We drove by this fruit stand, one of several we saw on our tour.2023-01-13T02:50:40+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2017/06/15/st-petersburg-day-2/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7559.jpgIMG_7559These earrings in the Gold Room are from 400 BC.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7558-2.jpgIMG_7558 (2)https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7557.jpgIMG_7557https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7540.jpgIMG_7540https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7539.jpgIMG_7539https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7538.jpgIMG_7538https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7537.jpgIMG_7537https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7532.jpgIMG_7532https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7525.jpgIMG_7525https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7516.jpgIMG_75162023-01-13T02:50:03+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2017/06/17/tallinn-estonia-soviet-flashback/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7605-2.jpgIMG_7605 (2)https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7586.jpgIMG_7586https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7607.jpgIMG_7607https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7606.jpgIMG_7606https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7605.jpgIMG_7605https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7591.jpgIMG_7591https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7587.jpgIMG_7587https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7582.jpgIMG_7582https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7580.jpgIMG_7580https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7579.jpgIMG_75792023-01-13T02:49:05+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2017/06/17/tallinn-walking-in-old-town/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7675.jpgIMG_7675https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7696.jpgIMG_7696https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7695.jpgIMG_7695https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7691.jpgIMG_7691https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7688.jpgIMG_7688https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7686.jpgIMG_7686https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7685.jpgIMG_7685https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7680.jpgIMG_7680https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7693.jpgIMG_7693https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7689.jpgIMG_76892023-01-13T02:47:24+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2017/06/18/gdansk-poland/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7900.jpgIMG_7900https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7882.jpgIMG_7882https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7880.jpgIMG_7880https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7869.jpgIMG_7869https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7850.jpgIMG_7850https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7968.jpgIMG_7968This is Westerplatte, the historic site where WWII broke out on September 1, 1939. We can see it from our boat.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7951.jpgIMG_7951There are lots of these pipes around the area. Apparently they carry steam, as an industrial bi-product, to heat their homes.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7931.jpgIMG_7931These were the boats under the bridge that you could ride. They looked like great fun.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7905.jpgIMG_7905Here's the front of the old City Hall. We're not sure what this little locked door is for - it's so short!https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7958.jpgIMG_7958Locals call this the amber donut but it's actually the soccer stadium.2023-01-13T02:46:49+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2017/06/19/exploring-our-ship/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7089.jpgIMG_7089Our ship, the Viking Seahttps://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7805.jpgIMG_7805This is the bathroom. Did I mention that its floor is heated? Heaven!https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7802.jpgIMG_7802This is our room. There's more closet space and drawers than we can fill. Large TV and a cabin boy that comes in twice a day while we're gone and cleans our room, restocks the refrigerator, and replenishes our ice and water pitcher and would do anything else we ask.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7799.jpgIMG_7799https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7795.jpgIMG_7795https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7782.jpgIMG_7782https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7778.jpgIMG_7778https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7772.jpgIMG_7772https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7767.jpgIMG_7767https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_7766.jpgIMG_77662023-01-13T02:46:11+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2017/06/20/visiting-berlin/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8107.jpgIMG_8107https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8100.jpgIMG_8100This Hurdy Gurdy lady was performing her distinctive music near the train when we left to go back to the ship.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8086.jpgIMG_8086https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8082.jpgIMG_8082https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8078.jpgIMG_8078We've seen several of these bears around the city and each is decorated differently. You can even find them in the gift shops.. But I'm not sure what their story is.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8077.jpgIMG_8077https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8074.jpgIMG_8074Here's one section of what's left of the Berlin Wall which divided East from West Berlin from 1961 to 1989.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8057.jpgIMG_8057This looks like a ship under construction, right? Well it's actually the headquarters for the Christian Democratic Union,, Angela Merkle's political party.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8054.jpgIMG_8054City artwork.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8047.jpgIMG_80472023-01-13T02:45:37+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2017/06/21/copacetic-copenhagen/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8491.jpgIMG_8491This is a local nearby restaurateur's version. Local officials have encouraged him to remove it but apparently choose not force him to do so. Certainly his customers like it and it's great advertising. https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8495.jpgIMG_8495https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8523-2.jpgIMG_8523 (2)And these bring new meaning to the word houseboat. The one in the center is literally a boat with a "house" built on top of it.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8522.jpgIMG_8522Hmm...interesting boat house.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8529.jpgIMG_8529We gladly shared the canal with this pair of swans out for a swim with their offspring.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8528.jpgIMG_8528And then the fun had to come to an end and we reluctantly embarked. What a fun night.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8521.jpgIMG_8521We took one side canal off of the main canal and like other areas of town, it was a whole different world down there. We went from upscale canal-side homes to some on the other end of the spectrum very quickly.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8519.jpgIMG_8519This was some kind of a brewery with outside seating for people to enjoy the canals while they eat and drink.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8518.jpgIMG_8518I'm not sure what the story is here with all of the white slips of paper tied to the trees.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8514.jpgIMG_8514These 2 couples were having a little picnic on their boat in the middle of the canal.2023-01-13T02:44:57+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2017/06/21/copenhagen-rosenborg-castle-tivoli-gardens/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8384.jpgIMG_8384https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8469.jpgIMG_8469This is my favorite. These two boys were really into their ride in an antique car. Notice their outfits, complete with matching sunglasses!https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_83101.jpgIMG_8310There were 2 small rooms with china in them that had been received by the royal couple as gifts. There must have been 6 or 7 full sets in different patterns. These sets have never been used, since the royal family also has other sets, of course.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8310.jpgIMG_8310https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8339.jpgIMG_8339This was one of 2 saddles on display. Both looked like they were very heavy. https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8308.jpgIMG_8308Two small rooms were set aside, one for china and one for glassware. The china room was most interesting with china mounted on the wall, floor to ceiling. there must have been 6 or seven sets, each with a different pattern. These were just for show; they had others that they actually used.2023-01-13T02:44:21+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2017/06/21/copenhagen-the-jazz-cruise/2023-01-13T02:42:09+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2017/06/22/awesome-alborg-denmark/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8764.jpgIMG_8764https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8687.jpgIMG_8687https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8762.jpgIMG_8762These were the steepest, shallowest steps leading down to a very small door. Interesting!https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8702.jpgIMG_8702Alborg's old City Hall was built in 1762 and it still a very striking where special events are held.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8698.jpgIMG_8698This is a close-up of the Alborg City Hall door showing the pin holes from times past when important messages were pinned to the front door of City Hall.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8688.jpgIMG_8688This was a side entrance into the monastery. I wonder where this hall leads?https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8686.jpgIMG_8686https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8667.jpgIMG_8667https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8637.jpgIMG_8637https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8633.jpgIMG_86332023-01-13T02:41:25+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2017/06/22/stavanger-norway/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8907.jpgIMG_8907This is a graceful bridge across the harbor overlooks a really nice community with boating facilities.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8906.jpgIMG_8906This long shop is a meat market. Wish we could have gone inside - bet it was interesting.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8882.jpgIMG_8882Low clouds hung over the area and came and went very quickly. It was very green and gorgeous.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8868.jpgIMG_8868The area outside of the tent where we were served waffles overlooked the lake and it was gorgeous.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8856.jpgIMG_8856It's hard to capture the beauty of this area. Hopefully we'll get another chance tomorrow.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8850.jpgIMG_8850https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8849.jpgIMG_8849We've heard that this area has ogres and sure enough we saw a severed ogre hand laying on the grass.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8841.jpgIMG_8841And we saw this door into a rock with 9 keyholes. Yes, 9. Clearly ogres are in the area.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8838.jpgIMG_8838We stopped at a small place by the lake that used to be a working farm but now seems to be more of a camp and tourist spot. They fed us wonderful waffles which we slathered with homemade strawberry jam and sour cream.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8834.jpgIMG_8834We drove out into the countryside and saw lots of black sheep and white sheep. The guide says the wool from the black sheep doesn't need to be sheared, it just falls off or can be pulled off. And it's very high quality wool.2023-01-13T02:40:21+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2017/06/24/eidfjord-norway/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_9039.jpgIMG_9039From up on the mountain, we could see snow on the higher elevations.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_90741.jpgIMG_9074https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_9065.jpgIMG_9065https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_9064.jpgIMG_9064This is an old school house but still used today. Our guide says that Norwegians get 10 years of education before deciding if they want to go on to advanced education: primary school is grades 1-7, and secondary school is grades 8-10.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_9062.jpgIMG_9062At Flam we caught the train up the mountainside. This long train had 2 bathrooms and one of them was out of order. https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_9061.jpgIMG_9061This is a moss roof which is different from a grass roof. But I think it's very pretty.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_9023.jpgIMG_9023One of the summer farms.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8999.jpgIMG_8999This is Tvindefossen, or twin falls, one of the two huge waterfalls we saw. https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8984.jpgIMG_8984We went from the fjord where our ship landed in Eidfjord to another fjord and eventually to Flam which is actually in a glass-smooth lake. The view of that lake was the most incredible scenery we've ever seen. Unfortunately I was sitting on the wrong side of the bus for photos.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_8963.jpgIMG_8963Our guide says that Norway is referred to as the land of a thousand tunnels. And some of them are very long. Indeed on our train trip up the mountain we passed through no less than 20 tunnels. Norwegians think tunnels are safer than the roads that cling to the side of the mountains that can deteriorate and crumble. Two of the tunnels we went through even had roundabouts in them!2023-01-13T02:38:57+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2017/06/24/last-stop-bergen-norway/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_9261.jpgIMG_9261The living room in the house.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_9295.jpgIMG_9295I liked these houses too and we can see these from our ship. Our guide said that 60 of the homes are protected by UNESCO but I'm not sure if these are the ones.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_9287.jpgIMG_9287This metal memorial is hard to see (bad photo!) but brilliantly executed. To the far left can be seen Grieg's profile (facing to the left), and to the far right is Nina's profile (facing to the right). https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_9285.jpgIMG_9285https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_9284.jpgIMG_9284https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_9283.jpgIMG_9283https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_9282.jpgIMG_9282And this is what the pianist sees. This is not a video, this is actually the lake that can be seen behind the piano. We got to hear a recital of Grieg's music given by a music professor from the Grieg Academy from the University of Bergen.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_9279.jpgIMG_9279The concert hall is as amazing inside as it is outside. https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_9270.jpgIMG_9270Nina wanted a rose window so they had this one constructed.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/img_9268.jpgIMG_9268Friends of Edvard and Nina gave them this grand piano for their 25th anniversary. Both Edvard and Nina played the piano. and Nine also sang.2023-01-13T02:36:56+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2022/10/22/day-14-1-budapest-panoramic-tour/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/20221019_172033.jpg20221019_172033The Shoes on the Danube Holocaust memorial is made up of 60 pairs of iron sculpted shoes that honor the Jews who were executed by the river Danube in World War II. The Jews were told to line up facing the river, take their shoes off and then shot to death in broad daylight by the Nazis to terrorize both Jews and supporters of Jews. The bodies were carried away by the water, the river cleaned up the mess, and the shoes were re-sold on the black market. It’s a gut-wrenching memorial and very effective.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4938-1.jpgIMG_4938Okay, our bus is stopped at a stoplight. I'm looking down the aisle and through the front windshield. Do YOU think this is what I should be seeing from this vantage point? I think not.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4875.jpgIMG_4875The Liberty Statue is a monument on the Gellért Hill. It commemorates those who sacrificed their lives for the independence, freedom, and prosperity of Hungary. (Locals sometimes refer to her as the Fish Lady.)https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_0597.jpgIMG_0597But this is a photo I took when we were here in 2015 and got to see it across the river at night.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_8989-1.jpegIMG_8989This is how the Parliament building looked when we first sailed into town. https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4961.jpgIMG_4961Matthias Church.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4958.jpgIMG_4958https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4927.jpgIMG_4927A hot air balloon just cruising over the city. What a great way to get an amazing view.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4918.jpgIMG_4918https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4889.jpgIMG_48892022-10-26T23:12:25+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2022/10/24/locks-and-swans/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_8792.jpegIMG_8792https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_8791.jpegIMG_87912022-10-29T03:30:33+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2022/10/24/aboard-our-ship/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_8307a.jpgIMG_8307ahttps://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_8287.jpegIMG_8287One of the locks we passed through.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_8151.jpegIMG_8151A lock we passed through at night. The water level has gone way down.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_8040.jpegIMG_8040https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/continental-divide.jpgContinental dividehttps://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/sun-deck.jpgSun DeckMost of the sun deck is covered with chairs, tables, and umbrellas that are constantly moved around based on the activities on the sun deck.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_8968-2.jpegIMG_8968The roof over the lobby is glass so when you're on the sun deck, you can see people below. Chuck was on the sun deck and took this photo of me working on the blog on one of the computer stations.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3754-2.jpegIMG_3754https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3941.jpgIMG_3941https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4073.jpgIMG_4073Here I am on our balcony. Our room was in the middle of the boat which turned out to be a really great location.2022-10-24T01:24:52+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2022/10/22/day-14-2-lazar-equestrian-park/2022-10-23T00:21:19+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2022/10/18/day-12-a-panoramic-tour-of-vienna-and-an-evening-concert/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4640.jpgIMG_4640I loved the tiled ceiling in the room. I'm not sure my photo does it justice.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4641.jpgIMG_4641I'm guessing the theatre held about 300 people. There were no reserved seats but we were the first bus to arrive so we had out pick of the seats.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4497.jpgIMG_4497Of course Vienna has an impressive Imperial Palace which is a whole complex of beautiful buildings. This is only one of them.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4621.jpgIMG_4621https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4618.jpgIMG_4618https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4606.jpgIMG_4606Great building - we assume the men were trying to get out, but not absolutely positive.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4601.jpgIMG_4601There was a white grand piano in front of the Cathedral and a variety of pianists sat down and played.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4585.jpgIMG_4585https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4582.jpgIMG_4582https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4580.jpgIMG_4580This mother and her 2 children thoroughly enjoyed the bubbles.2022-10-22T21:23:13+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2022/10/19/day-13-an-afternoon-on-danube-island/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4793.jpgIMG_4793Loved all of this exercise equipment just as we got off the bridge where the flags indicate it's the cruise ship site.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4784.jpgIMG_4784On the other hand, if you've just walked the better part of a 13-mile island, maybe a rest in a hammock is a better idea.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4768.jpgIMG_4768From the Island, looking back up at the bridge we were just about to go back across.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4747.jpgIMG_4747At least the WC's were open. Apparently they didn't get the memo about graffiti being illegal.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4740.jpgIMG_4740Don't these picnic tables look positively indestructible?https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4737.jpgIMG_4737This man and his little dog were taking a rest on the lawn of the island. Actually the man was taking a rest but I got the impression that the dog was ready to go any time.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4735.jpgIMG_4735Another view from the Island to the side opposite our boat. It's so pretty over there.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4728.jpgIMG_4728The trees on the island were turning colors and were so pretty.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4725.jpgIMG_4725This is how our boat looks from the Island.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4723.jpgIMG_47232022-10-19T22:48:21+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2022/10/18/day-11-2-cruising-down-the-wachau-valley-on-the-beautiful-blue-danube/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4408.jpgIMG_4408https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4433.jpgIMG_4433https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4430.jpgIMG_4430This shows that same castle from a different angle. You can see the old wall leading up to the castle.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4426.jpgIMG_4426Here's the castle he was heated to.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4425.jpgIMG_4425https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4416.jpgIMG_4416https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4406.jpgIMG_4406https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4402.jpgIMG_4402https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4396.jpgIMG_4396https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4391.jpgIMG_43912022-10-18T22:25:12+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2022/10/17/day-11-1-austrias-melk-abbey/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4342-1.jpgIMG_4342https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4626.jpgIMG_4626Abbey church pulpit.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3756.jpgIMG_3756Melk Abbey with the arm of the Danube.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4634.jpgIMG_4634Melk Abbey with the arm of the Danube.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4633.jpgIMG_4633https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4632.jpgIMG_4632Abbey Church, view towards the high altar.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4631.jpgIMG_4631https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4630.jpgIMG_4630https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4629.jpgIMG_4629https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4628.jpgIMG_46282022-10-18T00:37:05+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2022/10/16/day-10-2-a-visit-to-scharding-austria/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4200.jpgIMG_4200https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4216.jpgIMG_4216https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4215.jpgIMG_4215One of the houses we passed overlooking the water had a cannon in their front yard. I hope it was for ornamental purposes only.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4234.jpgIMG_4234https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_8493.jpgIMG_8493In one of the alleys, we ran across this man playing beautiful violin music while his little dog kept an eye on his master's collection case.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4346.jpgIMG_4346https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4345.jpgIMG_4345https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4344.jpgIMG_4344https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4343.jpgIMG_4343https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4342.jpgIMG_43422022-10-17T01:57:38+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2022/10/16/day-10-1-passau-germany/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4105-2.jpgIMG_4105The viking tour group.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4106-1.jpgIMG_4106An ordinary tour group.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4082.jpgIMG_4082The Old Town Hall.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4115.jpgIMG_4115https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4114.jpgIMG_41142 windows in a hat store.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4113.jpgIMG_4113https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4097.jpgIMG_4097https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4094.jpgIMG_4094https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4090.jpgIMG_4090https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4085.jpgIMG_40852022-10-17T01:43:56+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2022/10/14/day-9-regensburg/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4063.jpgIMG_4063https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4061.jpgIMG_4061https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4055.jpgIMG_4055https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4021.jpgIMG_4021A lovely walk through the leaves along the Danube River. Doesn't get any better than this.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4019.jpgIMG_4019https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4017.jpgIMG_4017https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4014.jpgIMG_4014https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4013.jpgIMG_4013https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4011.jpgIMG_4011https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_4004.jpgIMG_40042022-10-15T00:26:32+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2022/10/14/day-8-nuremberg/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3949-e1665746126191.jpgIMG_3949https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3870-1.jpgIMG_3870https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3802.jpgIMG_3802This is a nursery and it's very attractive.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3796.jpgIMG_3796We passed by this Shell gas station and I was able to get a photo of the prices sign. By my calculations, I think the prices ranged from $7.18-$7.88 per gallon, depending upon which grade you buy.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3837-1.jpgIMG_3837Here you can see the cuts in the wall where the cannons were.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3835.jpgIMG_3835Another view of the wall.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3910.jpgIMG_3910https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3907.jpgIMG_3907This vendor had a wonderful variety of cheeses and gave free samples.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3902.jpgIMG_3902The Farmers' market was great. Wonderful variety of products and very friendly vendors. Lots of samples.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3897.jpgIMG_38972022-10-15T00:42:40+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2022/10/13/day-7-bamberg/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3767.jpgIMG_3767https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3763.jpgIMG_3763https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3759.jpgIMG_3759https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3752.jpgIMG_3752https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3749.jpgIMG_3749A lovely garden near the Abbey.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3744.jpgIMG_3744https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3740.jpgIMG_3740I think this is a Benedictine Abbey but could easily be wrong. I need to take a notebook along and make notes as the guide talks. But I do like the buildings and especially all of the live flowers growing along the front.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3734.jpgIMG_3734A close-up of the cobblestones we've been walking on for the last several days. Oh, my aching feet!https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3733.jpgIMG_3733One of the major cathedrals in Bamberg. This is the only cathedral in the world to have a statue of a full-size horse in it (see below).https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3730.jpgIMG_37302022-10-13T19:02:03+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2022/10/13/day-6-rottenburg-the-romantic-road/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3676.jpgIMG_3676The the building is so big that I could get back far enough to take a picture of the whole thing. So here's what I got.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3580.jpgIMG_3580This field is growing sugar beets.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3578.jpgIMG_3578On our drive along the Romantic Road, we saw lots of the farm fields. https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3672.jpgIMG_3672Lots of windmills. Our guide said that some farmers had just switched to ''raising'' windmills because the government will pay them $10,000 to $20,000 to put windmills on their land.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3668.jpgIMG_3668We saw lots of solar panels here, sometimes whole fields covered with them of entire farm buildings covered with them like this one is.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3667.jpgIMG_3667A fall makeshift farmers' market.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3639.jpgIMG_3639Another view from Pinocchio's nose.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3611.jpgIMG_3611A lovely street scene.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3583.jpgIMG_3583I loved the little villages we went through with houses right next to the road. But it was hard to get photos, especially in the countryside, because the bus moved so fast that all I have of our trip is blurs. Lots of houses, like this one, have turned their small front yard into a fabulous-looking garden.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3659.jpgIMG_3659A good-looking sausage shop.2022-10-13T14:45:56+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2022/10/12/day-5-a-walk-in-miltenberg/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3514.jpgIMG_3514One more castle.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3491.jpgIMG_3491A bike route runs for miles along the river. It's very flat and gets lots of use.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3472.jpgIMG_3472The colors have been slow to change but I'm sure it will get better as we go along. This is one of the prettiest groups of trees I've seen so far.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3468.jpgIMG_3468Great little fall scene.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3467.jpgIMG_3467One of our guides told us that campgrounds along the river are frequent and popular and he certainly was right about that. We see them frequently along the river and they're always very crowded.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3466-e1665565976415.jpgIMG_3466And here's one last castle. For now anyway.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3571.jpgIMG_3571A bus took us from our boat to the downtown area of Miltenberg and when we parked we spotted this sign in the parking lot telling us where our bus needed to park. Really? Wouldn't just ''bus''' be sufficient? Why do Germans always have to use so many or tacked together words? Just saying.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3567.jpgIMG_3567https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3565.jpgIMG_3565https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3564.jpgIMG_3564Great door.2022-10-12T20:37:06+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2022/10/10/day-4-2-cruising-on-the-rhine/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3465.jpgIMG_3465https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3454.jpgIMG_3454https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3445.jpgIMG_3445https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3440.jpgIMG_3440Above Koblenz, at a point where the Rhine narrows and is at its deepest, the steep Lorelei Rock rises from the water. According to legend, it was here that the beautiful Loreilei maiden used to sit and sing sweetly. Woe to the sailor who passed the rock at nightfall and was lured to his doom, transfixed by her beauty and song as the rapid water lashed his vessel against the rocks.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3438.jpgIMG_3438https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3430.jpgIMG_3430https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3422.jpgIMG_3422https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3421.jpgIMG_3421https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3416.jpgIMG_3416https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3398.jpgIMG_33982022-10-11T22:47:07+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2022/10/10/day-4-1-a-walking-tour-in-koblenz/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3360.jpgIMG_3360https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3359.jpgIMG_3359The trees were just starting to turn colors in this lovely little park.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3355.jpgIMG_3355A great window. Unfortunately on Sundays all of the stores are closed.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3351.jpgIMG_3351This is a school and according to our guide the shutters on the little windows on the roof are only open once a year. At Christmas time they're used as an advent calendar and each day a new one opens. https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3350.jpgIMG_3350Another nice door.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3346.jpgIMG_3346The Schangelbrunnen fountain is a famous statue of a rascally boy that spits water at unsuspecting passersby every 100 seconds. Although designed in 1940, the significance of the statue goes back to the French occupation in 1794-1814 when there was a profusion of boys known for their pranks who were born to French soldiers and German women. https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3339.jpgIMG_3339Another impressive door.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3332.jpgIMG_3332This building has a clock near the top with a with a man's head with rolling eyes below it. Every hour on the hour, when the clock strikes, the man sticks his tongue out. (See photos below)https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3331.jpgIMG_3331https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3329.jpgIMG_33292022-10-10T15:55:34+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2022/10/10/day-3-2-cologne-city-walk/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_7549.jpgimg_7549https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3182.jpgIMG_3182I loved this fountain. It looked like mushrooms with water coming out of the bottom of the caps.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3177.jpgIMG_3177A local mailman with mail cart.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3174.jpgIMG_3174https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3167.jpgIMG_3167Adorable German craft items. Haven't had a chance to get into a shop yet.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3165.jpgIMG_3165https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3157.jpgIMG_3157Apparently there are 25 brands of beer here and 25 beer gardens. Each beer garden only sells one brand of beer. Beer is sold in a 7 oz. glass so it stays cold. When your glass is empty, they come by and give you a new one, necessitating putting your coaster on top of your glass if you don't want another one.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3123.jpgimg_3123https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3134-1.jpgimg_3134-1https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3156.jpgIMG_31562022-10-10T16:06:20+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2022/10/09/day-3-1-cologne-germany/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3222.jpgIMG_3222In 1730 a chapel was added on the property of the hunting lodge.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3134.jpgIMG_3134https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3221.jpgIMG_3221One of the beautiful ceilings.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3214.jpgIMG_3214At the top of the stairs.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3212.jpgIMG_3212The ceiling over the staircase.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3211.jpgIMG_3211The bathroom!https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3209.jpgIMG_3209The ceiling in the dining room above.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3202.jpgIMG_3202More walls of tiles.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3201.jpgIMG_3201Walls in one of the bedrooms.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3198.jpgIMG_3198A close-up of the tiled walls in the staircase.2022-10-13T14:54:20+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2022/10/07/day-2-the-windmills-at-kinderdijk/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3056.jpgIMG_3056https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3051.jpgIMG_3051https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3045.jpgIMG_3045https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3043.jpgIMG_3043https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3030.jpgIMG_3030https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3029.jpgIMG_3029https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3027.jpgIMG_3027The Cat's Cradle is a sculpture based on a legend about a cat named Dubbeltje that saved a baby in St. Elizabeth's Flood of 1421. Dubbeltje rocked the wooden cradle in the waves to keep it from tipping over as the floodwaters rose until the baby was rescued.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3014.jpgIMG_3014https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3007.jpgIMG_3007https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3003.jpgIMG_30032022-10-07T21:56:42+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2022/10/07/day-1-amsterdam/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_3002-2.jpgIMG_3002 (2)Now THAT'S an interesting boat!https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_2973-2.jpgIMG_2973 (2)A door for Denise.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_2982.jpgIMG_2982This lovely building, once a manufacturing plant, has now been repurposed as a pricey apartment complex for young couples.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_2940-10.jpgIMG_2940See the 3 sets of red swings? Look like fun? Nope!https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_2940-9.jpgIMG_2940See the 3 sets of red swings? Looks like fun? Nope!https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_2984.jpgimg_2984Amsterdam has 160 canals and this is a typical view. It has it all: Lots of bicycles, a coffee shop with umbrellas, beautiful buildings, and a power boat meandering down the canal accompanied by (chasing?) 4 beautiful swans. https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_2969-1.jpgimg_2969-1This bar is one of the oldest remaining wooden buildings in Amsterdam. See a photo of the front window below.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_2972.jpgimg_2972What a fascinating place this bar is. Sailors were said to pay their bills in monkeys picked up on their travels, hence the stuffed monkeys in the windows.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_2975.jpgimg_2975The equipment on the side of this canal can be used to control the water's activities.https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/img_2961.jpgimg_2961I love these buildings, all similar yet different.2022-10-07T13:01:06+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/2022/10/05/sailing-amsterdam-to-budapest/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/viking-vali.jpgviking-vali2022-10-08T20:21:29+00:00monthlyhttps://vikinghomelands.blog/about/https://vikinghomelands.blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/2017_viking_homelands_956x690_tcm13-155811.jpg2017_Viking_Homelands_956x690_tcm13-15581[1]2022-09-29T20:35:43+00:00weekly0.6https://vikinghomelands.blogdaily1.02023-01-13T02:59:20+00:00