Gottweig Abbey

The Abbey was established in 529 AD with 13,000 acres. It takes $1m to maintain the abbey each year. Recently all the roofs were replaced, at the cost of $17m. The church was built in 1083 and most ofLeia mais
Apricot Dumpling Cooking Class

After our tour of the Abbey we were treated to a cooking demonstration using the apricots from their orchard. I never drink black coffee, but I really enjoyed the coffee served here at the abbey. ToLeia mais
Trip Highlight (SO FAR)

This evening’s concert performance of the Strauss Capelle Vienna orchestra was led by Alma Deutscher. Alma was born in 2005. She is a composer, pianist, violinist & conductor. Playing piano when sheLeia mais
Off to Vienna

While enjoying the abbey, our ship repositioned to Tully. Enjoyed the scenery to the ship and were greeted by two swans when we returned to our stateroom. We continued to sail onto Vienna, throughLeia mais
An evening on the town

Concert, goulash and a cocktail before turning in.
Good night, Vienna

From our balcony
Vienna

Today we visited the center of Vienna. Lots of churches and beautiful buildings. We saw the world’s oldest Ferris wheel.
Swarovski Flagship Store

Three floors of decisions.
And we partied!

Night out in the town.
Fun signs along the way

After the tour we had time to shop. Saw some signs that I couldn’t resist sharing.
And we ate!!

Leisurely Day

Was able to sleep in and then enjoy lunch onboard before heading out.
Vienna Boys Choir

Choir members are 10-14 years old. The boarding school where they live goes from K-12. Tuition is minimal, with focus on singing, not financial status. While in the choir, scholarships cover a portionLeia mais
Boarding school life

One of our choir members going to entertain us while classmates play in the school yard. And a picture of their original uniforms.
Our choir

Front row center view.
My picture in the palace

Sailing the Danube

Underway to Budapest. Another beautiful day. Weather has been sunny and high seventies to low 80’s. Just perfect. While on deck we passed under several bridges.
Lounge Entertainment

Tonight Meko and our Program Director surprised us with quite an enjoyable experience after dinner in the lounge. Dinner I chose was a crab cake, chateaubriand and chocolate lava cake.
Budapest, Finally!

The day started out with a bang. Sharon banged her leg into something on deck this morning and it ruined her whole day. We are waiting now, 9:45 PM, for a medic to come on board. We are packed for ourLeia mais
Panoramic Budapest

I went out for the morning tour of the city while Sharon sat with her foot up.
Beautiful Church. Can’t pronounce the na

Beautiful working church. The name is on the sign.
…and more eating

Went to the market and learned of different meats, cheeses and chocolates. Oh yes, and paprikas. Spare time for shopping before enjoying a tasting of pickles, cheeses and meats.
More Shopping

Free time during the city tour. Our guide was a hoot! The manhole covers are beautiful.
Our last dinner on the ship

Farewell to the Captain and crew. It was a wonderful time. A traditional Hungarian dinner.
Last Stop in Budapest

Three hours til our departure. We are in the hospital. Sharon’s wound refuses to stop bleeding. ER has a warehouse feel with cots everywhere.
ViajanteWow, beautiful place!
ViajanteBeautiful