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Plus one solo in Europe
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Plus one solo in Europe

Travel. Not to find yourself. But to discover who you've been all along. Norway - England - Belgium - Germany - Austria - Italy - Switzerland - France - Turkey - Greece - Cyprus - Egypt. Read more
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  • Trip start
    November 3, 2023
    OaP Plus onePlus one solo in EuropeTraveler

    Europe. Solo

    November 3, 2023 in Australia ⋅ ⛅ 17 °C

    No longer a plus one. I am the one. A solo traveller. A series of monumental life changes, a window of opportunity and a yearning to curate a life of meaning by choice, l am en route to Europe and the Mediterranean.

    I reconcile the undercurrent of potential ego in this blog with a reminder to self. I have no social media (LinkedIn excepted) and largely navigate life privately. Documenting my holiday in this way, mostly, it's for me. It's also for my family. For posterity.

    Though I'm also a little over worrying about the small things like the way I might be perceived. A dear mate says regularly. You do you. Is it egotistical? Probably. Am I reeking of privilege? Probably. Do I care? ZFG.

    2023. The year my cup of f*cks to give emptied. And change. What change there's been! I'm almost a change champion. Self-employed running my own consultancy. Moving house. The pensioners pilgrimage with Mum and Dad. A new found love of fitness and health. Why not add more to a full plate by planning a solo adventure around Europe?

    This is an adventure decades in planning. The details may have shifted from the initial concept, somewhere in my teenage years. Some destinations have been overlooked. Others, merely a taster.

    With no expectations, I am infinitely grateful to experience this meaningful life.    Read more

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    Things to love about air travel

    November 4, 2023 in the Netherlands ⋅ 🌧 10 °C

    Norway. Was almost No way as my flight from Abu-Dhabi to Amsterdam was over sold. And I was the lucky allocated passenger in a sold seat. My chosen window seat. Next to an older couple, husband chronically unwell. He'd upgraded to purchase an additional seat. He'd bought my seat! Yet I held the boarding pass with my seat number printed. He did not. He needed the seat. I was calm and measured. The solution. Simple. I'll just sit in business class! All worked out, though the ensuing argument (them and flight crew. I just sipped tea and watched on ;) resulted in 30 odd minute delay to the flight. Time I didn't have to make my 3rd and last flight. Connecting Amsterdam to Bergen. Norway. Fortunately. I. Can. Now. Run. And run I did. Through Amsterdam airport. After 36 hours of real-time travel. I'm spent. I'm teary. I don't know if it's day or night and I want to eat. Sleep. And go for a run. All at once.

    Things to love about air travel:
    - The food. It's actually good even when it's bad
    - The parents doing their best to soothe their bubbas. There's something pretty sweet about watching a father sing to his baby
    - The people you meet. Like Donnall. The unassuming 65 year old who averages 10km a day running. A lifelong runner. Placed 3rd in the Abu-Dhabi marathon a fortnight ago. Proud Dad. Grandfather. Trucker. And fitness fanatic. Visits his son in Geelong regularly. He showed me pictures of his grand kids. Bless.

    Things I did. NOT. Like. At all.
    - The gentleman who blocked the toilet and skulked away without a word on hour 12 of first 14 hour flight. I over explained it wasn't me to the air hostess whilst gagging as I exited quickly for air. 6 flushes it took mate. You need more fibre.
    - Abu-Dhabi airport. The toilets. The bidets. They're used to shower I'm sure. They need to consort with Japanese designers.
    - Abu-Dhabi prices. My coffee pictured. A double espresso. I ordered it iced. It came as a macchiato. It was delicious. But. Also. $20 Australian dollars.

    This post was drafted and uploaded before the lost luggage saga. Stay tuned 😉    Read more

  • OaP Plus onePlus one solo in EuropeTraveler

    Bergen, Norway. Luggage. Found.

    November 4, 2023 in Norway ⋅ ⛅ 9 °C

    Arrival 1730 Norway time after a lovely, short, 80 minute flight on KLM. I was beyond shattered. I'd just ran 2km through the Amsterdam airport and knew after this, my third and final flight, I'd be in Norway.

    I devoured the delicious cheese, mashed egg and rye sandwich I'd been offered during the flight. I'd long given up trying to work out what meal I should be eating at what time and transitioned to a "Whatevs. Try everything on offer. If you don't like it or don't want it. Don't eat it." Eggs on aerial travel though. A story for another day.

    I wondered briefly if the baggage handlers were as adept as I was at moving their arses to ensure my suitcase made the connecting. After 45 sad minutes watching the bag drop. I knew in my gut. They were not at all adept. Their sense of urgency was not to prioritise Melissa's connecting luggage to next flight. Nor did they care I was to leave on a cruise the very next day. In fact, I realised, they didn't care about me at all🤣.

    I'm not going to colour this up. I cried. Uncontrolled tears. I was lost without a map. I needed clean undies. I needed my clothes. I needed my Dad. Eventually, in the empty baggage terminal, I found another human and sobbed to the customs official. I'm sure they thought I was crying through fear of being caught with contriband. Not this trip. Please and thank you.

    Missing luggage report lodged. The KLM officer, eyeing my damp face and sniffles from my tears, jokes. "I thought Australians were meant to be tough?" I was embarrassed. But also. Bitch. I'm made of concrete. I just need sleep. Food. And a hug.

    Heart sunken and anxious over the looming prospect of the balance of my trip in one pair of jocks, I head in a taxi to my hotel. I checked in. Then I checked out. 7.30pm. Proper bedtime for the ageing and, apparently, tired, hungry and emotionally broken folk.

    A broken but adequate sleep, I rose at 4.15am (Norwegian time), and put my plans in place. Run. Food. Food first. Run. Then finish up work. Watch The Block finale! Luggage. Find. Clean undies.

    I was caffeinated and fed at 5am, thanks to the incredibly kind concierge at the Radisson Blu, Bergen, Norway. He made me a double cappuccino. Retrieved 4 pieces of fruit. And extended my checkout time to all day, free of charge. Australians are so kind and friendly, he tells me. So are Norwegians, mate. Thank you.

    I ran. It was exactly what my body needed after so many hours in economy on the plane. I smiled during my run at the irony of my new self 😄. Who'd have ever thought this would be my priority?

    I dined. I expressed gratitude and knew things would work out.

    And they did. Luggage delivered to hotel around 1300. Checking in 1530 to Havila Capella. Cruise to see the Aurora Borealias.

    Norwegians and Norway. Beautiful.

    Reunited and it feels so good 😍. I missed you suitcase and contents of my life for the next month. I missed you.    Read more

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    Hunting the Northern Lights: Arctic

    November 5, 2023 in Norway ⋅ ⛅ 8 °C

    I board the Havila Capella, a smaller cruise / port ship in Bergen Norway. An eco ship, relatively new. It's a very different experience to the 90's vibe Princess and Carnival rock.

    My room is tiny, though all I need. My cohort of fellow travellers really are pensioners plus. I've not yet seen a child. I sense this group are my age plus, seeking to absorb all of the beauty mother nature has to offer.

    Almost everyone I've met, Norwegian, German, Austrian. They all speak perfect English and I am a little embarrassed by my own lack of culture. I'm not sure they'd find it as hilarious as I do if the only words I can share are profane.

    I've met Bonita. A spritely retiree from Virginia, USA. A health policy writer in her day. Tells me she went North when her marriage went South.

    And Karen. An Aussie from Perth, travelling Europe solo after recovering from Breast cancer.

    The food is delicious so far, though I'll start a separate entry for that.

    The ship departs Bergen 2030, Norway time, and I watch on, sipping a herbal tea on deck. I'm very much ready for bed. 3 hours ago.

    From Norway. Farvel for na.    Read more

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    Velkommen to Alesund

    November 6, 2023 in Norway ⋅ ☁️ 5 °C

    Alesund. Norway. What a beautiful place in the world. Spectacular scenery, majestic mountains and art nouveau architecture made this a really special place to visit.

    A morning spent kayaking through the harbour followed by an afternoon exploring the town was my chosen way to immerse myself in the first port visit along the Norwegian coastline.Read more

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    Tusen Takk Trondheim

    November 7, 2023 in Norway ⋅ ☁️ 2 °C

    Tusen Takk to the town we visited today. Tusen Takk ~ Norwegian for "A thousand thanks."

    A beautiful town I explored with my new friends, Russel and Louise, a delightful couple from Bristol, United Kingdom. My kayaking buddies from yesterday, they are absolutely wonderful.

    My day started at 6am with a 7km run (gosh it's good to get it done before brekky), followed by a leisurely 6km walk through the town of Trondheim. Followed by a big lunch, then a bex and a good lie down at 2pm.

    The architecture, history and rich culture of Norway has filled me with awe. I came for the Northern lights. I'm captivated by everything else.

    Tusen Takk Norway.    Read more

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    Hei Hei: The Arctic Circle

    November 8, 2023 in Norway ⋅ ⛅ 3 °C

    Hei Hei. Norwegian for hello. We crossed the Arctic circle at approximately 0755 this morning. The scenery changes rapidly, and the rolling green pastures, pine trees and Norwegian architecture shift to rocky outcrops and mountains dusted with snow. It's cold. Bloody cold.

    The Arctic ceremony on board heils the God of the Arctic. (Gods?). My listening skills aren't great in a crowd of voices, and Google brings up many possible Arctic gods. I refrain from the ice baptism on offer, though I do elect a glass of champagne. I'm brave. I'm adventurous. But I'm already struggling with the absence of feeling in my fingertips. I decline the ladle of ice down my back.

    I woke early today. 5am. A quick few kms at the gym to channel the feelings (with a seriously incredible view). I was homesick and missing my loved ones. I'm still missing everyone terribly, though my gratitude is renewed as I bask in this incredible place in the world.

    An Arctic hike awaits this afternoon.    Read more

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    Arctic Hike: Boda, Norway

    November 8, 2023 in Norway ⋅ ☀️ 2 °C

    I briefly researched the weather in various locations throughout Norway before my departure. I knew I was coming to the Arctic after all. I do like to be organised. Pack the right clothing. I purchased thermals. Gloves. Pants. Tops. I have a lovely jacket purchased from my trip to Canada earlier this year.

    4 degrees (celsius) it was in Boda, Norway today. It was 10 degrees the day I stood in a tshirt. In the snow. In Canada. Comfortably. It was colder one morning a few weeks ago in Echuca /Moama when I rose for an early morning run. I thought I was prepared for this climate.

    How naive I was. 4 degrees here. This region needs an Aussie specific BOM update - a feels like temperature set to the Australian barometer. What we're acclimated to. A "Feels like minus 10" would've been grand. I wore 4 layers on top. One a thermal. 2 pairs of pants. One, a thermal. Beanie. Hoodie. Snow jacket. Fur boots. Thermal gloves. And I can still feel the cold in my toes. Possibly my bones. 45 minutes after returning from a 3km hike (amble...let's not use inaccurate language here).

    The scenery was stunning. But. The Victorian sun. I'd really love a few hours of you right now.

    4 degrees in the Arctic. Is not the same as 4 degrees back home. The sun is setting now. 15:45pm. Give me a home among the gum trees - with lots of SUN please, though visiting this pristine Arctic town. Tusen Tukk once again Norway.    Read more

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    The Northern Lights from Norway

    November 8, 2023 in Norway ⋅ ⛅ 1 °C

    The Northern Lights. Confession. Despite being a student of science most of my life, I needed to consult Googlay (the Nordic reference for Google) to understand it.

    I knew it was polar / magnetic related. Though that's my limit of understanding. I've included reference to the science below.

    What the science doesn't explain is the ethereal magic and splendour of mother nature's greatest show. I am infinitely grateful and reminded again of how wonderous our world really is. To see the Northern lights in real time. Not out of a National Geographic or with narration of David Attenborough (as much as I could listen to Richard narrate any natural wonder. Along with Morgan Freeman. Gosh life would be lovely with them explaining it every step of the way).

    With infinite gratitude.

    The Science:

    https://www.rmg.co.uk/stories/topics/what-cause…

    What is the aurora?

    The aurora can be seen near the poles of both the northern and southern hemisphere. In the north the display is known as the aurora borealis; in the south it is called the aurora australis.

    These 'northern' and 'southern lights' have fascinated, frightened and inspired humans for centuries. More recently, photographers have gone to remarkable lengths to try and capture the beauty of these atmospheric events.

    What causes the Northern Lights?
    An aurora is one of the most spectacular displays in the night sky - but how are these curtains of colourful light formed?

    See the world's greatest space photography
    The aurora borealis, also known as the 'northern lights', is one of the most spectacular displays in the night sky. What is the science behind these curtains of light?

    The sight filled the northern sky; the immensity of it was scarcely conceivable. As if from Heaven itself, great curtains of delicate light hung and trembled. Pale green and rose-pink, and as transparent as the most fragile fabric, and at the bottom edge a profound and fiery crimson like the fires of Hell, they swung and shimmered loosely with more grace than the most skilful dancer. Lyra thought she could even hear them: a vast distant whispering swish.

     Phillip Pullman, His Dark Materials
    What is the aurora?
    The aurora can be seen near the poles of both the northern and southern hemisphere. In the north the display is known as the aurora borealis; in the south it is called the aurora australis.

    These 'northern' and 'southern lights' have fascinated, frightened and inspired humans for centuries. More recently, photographers have gone to remarkable lengths to try and capture the beauty of these atmospheric events.

    See spectacular aurora photography at the Astronomy Photographer of the Year exhibition

    What causes the aurora borealis or 'northern lights'?

    The lights we see in the night sky are in actual fact caused by activity on the surface of the Sun.

    Solar storms on our star's surface give out huge clouds of electrically charged particles. These particles can travel millions of miles, and some may eventually collide with the Earth.

    Most of these particles are deflected away, but some become captured in the Earth’s magnetic field, accelerating down towards the north and south poles into the atmosphere. This is why aurora activity is concentrated at the magnetic poles.

    “These particles then slam into atoms and molecules in the Earth’s atmosphere and essentially heat them up,” explains Royal Observatory astronomer Tom Kerss. “We call this physical process ‘excitation’, but it’s very much like heating a gas and making it glow.”

    What we are seeing therefore are atoms and molecules in our atmosphere colliding with particles from the Sun. The aurora's characteristic wavy patterns and 'curtains' of light are caused by the lines of force in the Earth’s magnetic field.    Read more

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    Tromso: Reindeer farm & Sami Culture

    November 9, 2023 in Norway ⋅ ☁️ -2 °C

    No day has been the same in Norway so far, though a sure bet is the plummeting temperature and darker days as we traverse further North. The sun set around 1500 during our visit to Bodo today.

    An exceedingly early start for me, sometime around 0430. I emerged around 5. Desperately seeking coffee. I ran into a lovely Canadian lady at the coffee machine. From Vancouver no less. She saved me with some half and half milk in my Americano coffee pour. The alternative was powdered creamer. I'd rather not.

    Perhaps it was the Norwegian milk. Perhaps the Northern lights are radioactive. But I managed a 16km run on board the ship before breakfast.

    A more subdued morning refuelling before a terrific afternoon at a Reindeer farm and Sami cultural experience.

    Bucket of reindeer feed in hand, I approached the herd. Although a wild herd, (all farmed reindeer are herded by the Sami people - Indigenous to the North of Norway / Finland / Sweden / Russia), they were tame and are very accustomed to human interaction. I named the beautiful young buck who'd decided I was a safe bet Twistie. Because one of his antlers was twisted. I'm original like that.

    An older, bigger buck with menacing antlers tried to push in. I narrowly escape an antler in places I'd rather not mention.

    My revenge was swift as shortly afterwards, I tucked into a bowl of reindeer stew. It was delicious. Tender, not at all gamey. Low fat and purportedly more Omegas than salmon. Sorry Rudolph. #notsorry. #ChristmasGrinch. Photos were challenging as I wanted free hands to ensure antlers did not cause further injury.

    The balance of our time here was spent learning about the Sami people (indigenous to Norway, Finland, Sweden, Russia), their culture, history and relationship with the land, and the only group that can herd and commercialise reindeer for meat.

    A beautiful, albeit freezing afternoon. The attached video was filmed with permission.

    The Sami:

    https://nordnorge.com/en/tema/the-sami-are-the-…

    In the far north of Europe, ancient sounds, unique craftwork traditions, and a particular language live side by side with modern technology. The Sami culture is the oldest culture in large areas of Northern Norway and is currently experiencing a strong renaissance.

    The Sami people live in four countries: Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia. The total population in these four countries is estimated at approx. 80,000, of whom around half live in Norway. Slightly under half of these people talk Sami. In Norway, the Sami people in Norway live in almost all parts of Northern Norway, and in the southern parts of the country in Trøndelag and Femundsmarka in Hedmark.    Read more

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    Honningsvag and The North Cape

    November 10, 2023 in Norway ⋅ 🌬 3 °C

    Honningsvag. I'd like to think I was mature enough not to contemplate who Honnings is / was and how she got an entire town named after her lady parts. But I'm not. Petulance aside, I mean no disrespect.

    My last day in Norway and a night of nursing interventions to hold at bay a looming infection / fever. Some self care, antipyretics and honey / lemon tea saw me rallying and joining a tour to The North Cape - the northernmost part of Europe.

    The sun sets in this region for good on 22 November, appearing once again on 22 January. Definitely not a way I could live.

    I questioned my decision making shortly after the attached video was filmed when evidently, my medication wore off and the fever returned. I found the bus driver and collapsed onto my seat on the bus, awaking only to return to ship and sleep / sweat fitfully the balance of the day. I'm really crook. Missing home even more and due in London 11/11.

    The Northern Cape. A destination I should've given a miss, though my fever has now broken. I want my sister and her beautiful soups more than anything.

     #ratnegative.    Read more

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    Kirkenes & ha det bra Norway

    November 11, 2023 in Norway ⋅ ☀️ -3 °C

    My final day in Norway. Armistice day. The significance of travelling to the United Kingdom on this day is not lost to me, and I carefully pin the poppies I'd purchased in Melbourne from an RSL volunteer on my new neck warmer thing. I pause at 11.11, Norwegian time, and express in silence my gratitude for the privileged life I enjoy. For the sacrifices generations before us made willingly for our country. For their fellow man. For our allies.

    Gratitude is needed in spades today as my (self diagnosed) sinus infection threatens to truly take hold. I've slept most of the preceding 24 hours and fever held only at bay with nurofen / paracetamol. I really want my own bed. I'm torn between regret at attempting this journey, feeling sorry for myself, and being cross at me for my self-indulgence. I'm not a good patient.

    I take the only viable option. For want of a more apt phrase on this day of remembrance, I soldier on and remind myself of my why. Why I chose this adventure in the first place and what I still have to learn. I review my travel itinerary again, and I'm excited once more for what is to come.

    Still missing home. Still missing my family and friends. Though reminded I'm home in 4 weeks today, and I may never get this opportunity again. I'll do my best to savour the journey.

    Ha det bra Norway.    Read more

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    United Kingdom. #convictreturned

    November 12, 2023 in England ⋅ ☁️ 4 °C

    Though my flight from Tromso, Norway, on W!zz Airlines (I was nervous!) arrived 30 minutes early to London, Luton airport (how very proper to be ahead of schedule), the shitshow to clear customs ensured sleep and I would meet sometime closer to 0130.

    My comment to customs officials in the hour long queue "It's almost like you weren't expecting any planes to come in" didn't bode well, and I'm not sure my exhausted laissez-faire commentary is appreciated. Again. Cup of f*cks. Empty.

    I arrive at my lovely hotel, Novotel West London, somewhere around 0100 after an hour long and $200 taxi fare. They do, however, drive on the proper (left) hand side of the road here, and it looks a little like some parts of Melbourne. I'm very appreciative of the lotus biscoff on offer and wonder why anyone would choose a Tim Tam over one of these babies. A perfect bedtime snack.

    I've been travelling since 0900. I've been crook. I've subsisted on Norwegian vending machine junk food and I'm a little cooked. I muster through after less than 5 hours sleep and arise at 0630 to join a coach / walking group of (some) London sights. Westminster, Big Ben, Buckingham palace. Starbucks. KFC. Subway. McDonalds. The group move at glacial pace, and although worth it, I'm wanting to run through the crowd at every opportunity. They're ruining my fitness stats with their 30 minute kms! I also sadly realise I'm not a royalist, and the info proffered by the tour guide is a little yawnarooney for me. Sorry Grandma and Aunty Joy. I like other British things though! Like tea. And sponge cake. And scones! And complaining ;)

    It is, however, with admiration, I observe the armistice day celebrations. They are weekend long in England and the respect is palpable. The video attached was as close as I could get.

    My fatigue starts to shift, and I'm grateful milk tastes like real milk in Europe thus far. I take in the sights, though the highlight of my afternoon was running through the streets and parks of Kensington. The light rain started in my last km. A good mate tells me how cleansing it is. It really was, and I feel euphoric. A stark contrast to this morning.

    I manage a total of 9km of running and 6km of walking today. I'm grateful for a body that can move this way and help me enjoy this beautiful city on foot.

    I'm also grateful to meet the roots of our Aussie culture, as so far, our British mates are as awesome as us Aussies.

    I cruise the Thames this evening.

    London. I can't wait to return one day soon and explore the country and isles in the time it deserves.    Read more

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    Thames at night and the left confirmed.

    November 12, 2023 in England ⋅ 🌧 9 °C

    A delightful evening with an English pub meal at The Traitor's Gate and a cruise on the river Thames. I really wanted a full english roast with yorkies, though the set menu did not offer such traditional fare. I settled for battered cod and mushy peas. It was okay. I've had better.

    The greatest let down was the offer of lotus biscoff cheesecake. Yes please I say! Only to have the delightful waitress explain they've run out and only have salted caramel. I stifle my tears and refuse the calorie hit if it's not lotus biscoff. I settle for a chocolate brownie. The convict jokes continue as I request it to go (I'm a slow eater and we'll all miss our cruise if we wait for me). They apologise as they hand me the takeaway box without a spoon, explaining they have no disposable spoons. I steal a stainless spoon quietly from the table, wink, and explain to my tour group. It's okay! I'm Australian! It's what the Brits expect. We were colonised for such crimes. Though also. How do I eat a brownie with ice cream to go without a spoon?

    I also learn from the lovely David, our tour guide, why driving on the left is the RIGHT way. It dates back to Roman times. When crossing a bridge or narrow passing. To ensure your right side is free to draw your sword.

    So there. Evidence. I'll peer review it later.

    Onwards to Brussels.    Read more

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    1

    Brussels, Belgium & the Flemish

    November 13, 2023 in Belgium ⋅ 🌧 15 °C

    Pip pip cheerio to London, and bonjour, hallo to Brussels, Belgium.

    Another early start. I truly don't mind the early starts, I prefer them, though I do need an early night prior, and the Thames cruise did not facilitate my need for sleep with a 2300 delivery to hotel the evening prior.

    I hack my meal prepping for the day, making myself a ham and cheese sandwich and yogurt cup, to go, at the breakfast buffet. I appreciate this is taking more than my share. Though. Convict. Another spoon stolen to enable consumption of what may be contriband.

    We board our coach and are introduced to Luigi, our tour guide for the trip. Luigi is already grating on me. It's early. His accent is thick and he does nothing to elevate my opinion of him when he directly asks, "Why are you all a by yourself, eh? Why you no have a the husband?"

    Thanks Luigi. Watch yourself, or else I'll move princess Peach to another castle.

    Lost at some train station in London, I ask for directions to the platform I need to get to. The lovely attendant asks my platform number. Ever amusing myself, I state 9 and 3/4. Harry Potter reference. I'm always cracking myself up.

    A seemingly brief and very comfortable trip aboard the Eurostar delivers us to Belgium sometime around 12.30.

    I am enthralled with Belgium. I amble without purpose for hours through the alleys and absorb all this city has to offer. I dine. Belgian waffles no less. Light rain soaks my hair and skin. I stop to enjoy the buskers playing John Legend: All of me, a song that always makes me teary, and realise in this very moment. I'm in Belgium. In Europe. I was in London yesterday. Norway the day before. I'm so very appreciative for this moment.

    I accept I may look like a cashed up tourist after the 2nd compliment of my beauty and marriage proposal from the Belgian restaurateurs seeking clientele, and silently think suck on that Luigi. Bet you're not receiving same compliments today. 🤣.

    A late hotel check in, I take myself out for dinner and dine French style. Croque Monsieur. A single vino rouge. And contemplate how beautiful the world really is. I check myself and know I've ordered a ham and cheese toastie. And a house red. Language can make anything fancy.

    Merci Bouquet, Danke Schon, Dankjewel, Belgium.    Read more

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    Guten Morgen, Abend und Nacht Germany

    November 14, 2023 in Germany ⋅ ☁️ 13 °C

    Au revoir Belgium, and Guten Morgen Germany. When I say early start. I'm talking 0445. A self-inflicted additional hour earlier than needed to facilitate a run. Running with accumulative sleep deprivation is less than ideal. Still. 5km. Enough time to cool down and hack breakfast once again. I carefully pack a yogurt. Fresh Belgian roll. Turkey breast. Swiss cheese. Cucumber. If they didn't want me to make lunch, they'd not offer cold cuts I figure. Or freshly baked baguettes. Refer back to convict theme in prior posts.

    Another day. Another country. Another spoon stolen for my yogurt cup to add to my growing collection. Who needs souvenirs when you have stolen silverware?

    The autobahn is something else. 120km p/h. Never could this work in Australia. The Monash car park couldn't handle such speeds with our routine 40km zones whilst contractors pretend to work. I soon learn the exit signs, Ausfahrt, aren't instructional for myself, an Australian, to fart. I continue to respect my fellow passengers.

    Much of the afternoon is spent cruising the river Rhine. Taking in the sights. The vineyards on hillsides so steep I wonder if they're harvested by mountain goats. The scenery is stunning.

    We arrive in Frankfurt sometime around 1600. I attempt a second run for the day, and call it early. Fatigue is beginning to take its toll and I decide a few days rest is needed.

    Not at all enough time here. Austria bound now. Verabschiedung Germany.    Read more

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    Edelweiss Austria

    November 15, 2023 in Austria ⋅ ☁️ 4 °C

    Today, we depart Frankfurt, Germany and traverse towards Austria. A brief stop in the beautiful town of Rothenburg and a delightful Apfelstrudel in a quaint coffee shop. It is delicious. As was the apple pie I enjoyed on the Rhine yesterday. Though I'm reminded again of the Queen of apple pie and pastry. In a competition she didn't know she entered, Maryanne Pollock from Cohuna once again takes out first prize for best apple pie of 2023. The champion dutch baker from Australia, defeating Canada, the United States, and now Europe. An intercontinental champion.

    The pace of this trip is tiring, and I respect that a country a day is a microcosm of the landscape, history, culture and architecture of each destination, though it's a great 'taste' of Europe.

    Now. Austria. How do you solve a problem like Melissa? The scenery ensures my head is filled with songs from The Sound of Music.

    The autumnal trees in hues of amber and yellow amongst the evergreen spruce, hugging the soaring mountain ranges. Turqouise lakes and crisp mountain air. I've seen some incredible landscapes in my travels this year, though Austria is really something else.

    We've barely crossed the Austrian border at time of this post - en route to Innsbruck.

    Today is a gift.    Read more

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    Innsbruck, Swarovski & Christmas Village

    November 15, 2023 in Austria ⋅ ☁️ 9 °C

    Austria. Wow. So long, farewell, auf Wiedersehen, good night. I hate to go and leave this pretty sight. I really wish we had longer here.

    We arrive at Innsbruck and are surprised with an off itinerary stop to the home of Swarovski crystal. An excited purchase of jewellery, a quick amble around this stunning town and we check in to our motel.

    Austria was breathtaking. Our exhausted group are now forming that bond / team comradeship that evolves naturally when you are sharing space and time, and it's a beautiful thing. A mixture of people from the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Jamaica, the Phillipines, I observe with pride and humility just how much we all have in common, irrespective of cultural differences. We really aren't all that different.

    I bonded quickly with Michelle on our first day. An awesome, kind, inspirational and hilarious lady from California. We share a lot in common, including an incredibly low tolerance for bullshit. We discover our birthdays are the same. I'm so grateful to have made such an incredible friend on this journey.

    Tomorrow, we travel to Venice.

    Auf wiedersehen Austria.

    https://youtu.be/mBMVy6tQQB8    Read more

  • OaP Plus onePlus one solo in EuropeTraveler

    Buongiorno Venezia, Italia

    November 16, 2023 in Italy ⋅ ☁️ 13 °C

    Buongiorno! Come va? We depart Innsbruck, Austria, approximately 0730 am and are crossing the Italian border by 0800.

    At some point during the evening, my phone had died and my beautiful deep sleep was interrupted at 0600 by the landline ringing in my room. I felt I'd experienced some divine intervention. Some confirmation from the universe that my journey, both through Europe, and indeed, life itself was guided by a higher power. I had not requested a wake-up call, yet I was woken in good time to ensure I wasn't left behind. I then shared my (spiritual!) story at breakfast. And it was explained to me Luigi had told us all that wake-up calls had been arranged for everyone. Bubble burst. I finish breakfast. Pack my play lunch and big lunch, and board the coach. Another country. Another spoon stolen.

    Venice. Unassuming as we approach by ferry. Once we'd arrived though. Wow. I'm not sure I can find words to describe the beauty of this city. The intricate detail and opulence. The soaring monuments, colour, the marble and statues. The art. The history. The turquoise waters of the canals. This city breathes romance and I can't help but wish I had a love to share this moment with.

    We weave our way to Murano glass, an icon of Venice, and I'm captivated by the glass blowing process. I mentally commit to the classes I've been meaning to do forever. I splurge on a set that speaks to my soul. No regrets. Keep an eye out for that delivery Dad 🤑. You may need to pay the sales tax 😉.

    Michelle, my new found best American compadre and I, board a Gondola with 2 lovely ladies in our group, single though travelling together. We are dismissed of the romance. Our gondolier must too be a divorcee, jaded in this city of love. I take control and play "That's amore" through my spotify. It suffices, though it seems more appropriate to blast milkshake. We're all soon singing along to milkshake through the canals of Venice. It does not however, bring any boys to the yard.

    I sit alone in a Cafe and appropriately order an Italian merlot. Tiramisu. And delight in the beauty of Italy 🇮🇹 .

    Salute to new friends, and Graci Venezio, graci.    Read more

  • OaP Plus onePlus one solo in EuropeTraveler

    Where for art thou Romeo? Verona, Italy

    November 17, 2023 in Italy ⋅ ☀️ 9 °C

    Enamoured with Venice yesterday, I referred to it as the city of love. Then, we come to Verona.

    "What’s Montague? It is nor hand nor foot,
    Nor arm nor face nor any other part
    Belonging to a man. Oh, be some other name!
    What’s in a name? That which we call a rose.
    By any other word would smell as sweet. (II.ii)"

    I'm taken back to my year 10 studies when Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet was on the syllabus. The warring Montague and Capulet families. The tragedy of the forbidden love of Romeo and Juliet. Of course, my analysis of the themes and written prose was deemed excellent, and I was awarded top marks.

    I chose not to touch Juliet's boobs as is customary when pictured with her statue. She was 13. Not cool people. Not cool.

    It was something else visiting Verona today. Bearing witness to the locale of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, written between 1591 to 1597.

    "For never was a story of more woe, than that of Juliet and her Romeo."

    Alla prossima Verona,
    e Italia.    Read more

  • OaP Plus onePlus one solo in EuropeTraveler

    Gueten abig Switzerland

    November 17, 2023 in Switzerland ⋅ ❄️ 1 °C

    The stunning sun of Italy and Verona becomes a fading memory as we cross the Swiss border and wind our way once more through the Alps.

    The temperature drops quickly, the skies grey and we are soon witnessing falling snow. Although similar to the Austrian Alps, the differences are subtle enough to mark the terrain as Switzerland.

    We arrive late in Lucerne, exhausted, though enough time for a quick shop and a visit to the Lion of Lucerne, a stunning monument in commemoration of the Swiss guards.

    Exhausted. I hack a hotel room dinner of ravioli soaked in boiling water in a coffee cup, and put myself to bed at 7pm.

    More of Switzerland to see tomorrow.

    The Lion Monument (German: Löwendenkmal), or the Lion of Lucerne, is a rock relief in Lucerne, Switzerland, designed by Bertel Thorvaldsen and hewn in 1820–21 by Lukas Ahorn. It commemorates the Swiss Guards who were massacred in 1792 during the French Revolution, when revolutionaries stormed the Tuileries Palace in Paris. It is one of the most famous monuments in Switzerland, visited annually by about 1.4 million tourists.[1] In 2006, it was placed under Swiss monument protection.[2]    Read more

  • OaP Plus onePlus one solo in EuropeTraveler

    Mt Stanserhorn and Snow fun

    November 18, 2023 in Switzerland ⋅ ☁️ 6 °C

    Every day on this trip has been epic. A new country or city each day. Huge kilometres of travel across Europe. Early starts and schedules so tightly packed there's scarcely enough time to process the magnificence and grandeur at each stop. A new hotel room each night. I wake never quite knowing where I am. I am so tired.

    To add to my fatigue, I'm committed to marathon (half) training and it's been tough. Some (most) hotels without a gym. Some locations are unsafe, either by infrastructure, or unsafe for a lone female (probably male too) runner in the dark and early hours of the morning.

    I set my alarm for 0400 today and was outside in the chilly 2 degree celsius temperatures to brave an outside run by 0430. I completed about 30% of my planned kilometres. Phone had died during the run (Unable to charge overnight - swiss outlets aren't the same as English or other European outlets); it was dark. Foggy. I knew I'd have trouble navigating my way back at the 4km mark, and decided my ambition needed to be parked to prioritise finding the hotel again. It's the first run I've ever done where I didn't feel better afterwards. I was teary. I'm tired. Really tired. Although this tour has been terrific, the agenda is tortuously rapid, and it's a lot.

    Our midday schedule was scaling Mount Stanserhorn via tram car. I'm not sure if it was the mountain air or engaging with the delightful Mason, a 12 year old lad from Texas, United States holidaying with his Mum, sister, and grandparents. But my inner child delighted in making snow balls to throw at Luigi with Mason. Together, we built a snowman (snow turtle - our hands were freezing and time was not on our side) and marvelled at our natural team work in bringing our structure together.

    The stunning views. Crisp clean air and opportunity to engage my inner child and spend some precious time with Mason, turned today from really tough, to really terrific. Another life lesson. When adulting is all too much. Go back to your inner child and play for a while. Reconnect with the simplicity and joy of doing something just for fun. Not for an outcome.

    It possibly helps when you're on holidays in Europe.    Read more

  • OaP Plus onePlus one solo in EuropeTraveler

    Dijon, France. Non merci.

    November 18, 2023 in France ⋅ ☁️ 12 °C

    Crossing the Swiss / French border around 1530, we finally arrive in Dijon, France around 1900. Noting this is the 2nd last night of the tour, and our first of two nights in Paris, a small group of us head out on a tram to Dijon square. It's Saturday night. It's busy. Getting a table for 7 is next to impossible.

    We eventually find a bar that also serves food. Hardly ideal for the children in our group though, nearing 2030, it'll have to do. Mason, our lead navigator, does a spectacular job of leading us to correct tram numbers and finding possible venues to dine. He is 12. I'm 45. I hang my head in shame and accept navigation and I are never going to be mates.

    Tired, exhausted, we head back to our hotel. I decide to enjoy a long hot shower. Sometime near the conclusion of my shower, I am horrified / mortified to find a man entering my bathroom. The stuff of horror movies I feel. There's nowhere to hide. I am completely starkers. Like most of us are when showering. I scream. I yell. "What the f*ck!", grab a towel and chase this man out of my room.

    I see the room filled with steam, which had caused the fire alarm to trip. I calm myself and realise I've now transformed the bedroom into a steam room. Also. Heard of exhaust fans France?

    The mortifying experience continues as the next entourage, tour director Luigi and hotel representatives knock at my door to see if I'm alright. I yell through a crack in the door. It was the steam!! I don't smoke!! I'm not okay! I've just been viewed in my birthday costume by a complete stranger!

    I learn over breakfast the following morning, several guests had assembled in the foyer to evacuate, anticipating a fire. Not only am I overwhelmingly humiliated for the intrusion and exposure, I've also interrupted an entire hotel. I was just showering! Luigi assures me the only issue he has is not knowing it was my room, and him not being the first responder. And how lucky the hotel employee was to view such a beautiful woman. Not reassured, I accept I can only move on.

    Dijon, thanks for the mustard. That's about all I've got for you.

    en avant pour Paris.    Read more

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