• Amy DB
  • Polka Dillow
  • Eo Bodeo
  • Amy DB
  • Polka Dillow
  • Eo Bodeo
  • Sean Beebe
  • Coco Banya

DB Family Europe Grand Tour 22

Et 85-dagers eventyr av Amy, Polka, Eo og 3 andre Les mer
  • Lodging: Bucharest Capitol Hotel

    3. juni 2022, Romania ⋅ ☁️ 57 °F

    Hotel Capitol is located close to the University of Bucharest and Cismigiu Gardens in a lively and central area of the city, and features an on-site restaurant.

    The property was built in 1901 and kept the original décor after various renovations. Close to the hotel there are diverse dining, shopping and entertainment opportunities.

    The spacious and elegantly equipped rooms are air-conditioned and feature cable TV, free WiFi, a minibar, and a bathroom.

    https://www.booking.com/hotel/ro/capitol-buchar…
    Les mer

  • Bucharest Walking Tour

    4. juni 2022, Romania ⋅ ⛅ 75 °F

    This city has a fascinating history from Vlad Dracul to WWII to the communist era.

    Our guide, Cristian, is the son of a woman who lived for 30 years under communist rule, having to watch her every word. There were informants everywhere.

    He ended with a touching story about the Romanian Revolution, and the freedom his generation has to talk and think because of it.
    Les mer

  • Lunch

    4. juni 2022, Romania ⋅ ⛅ 81 °F

    Lunch at Caru' cu bere, a restaurant with Bavarian styling and traditional Romanian food. For dessert, we had papanash, a cream covered donut thing. So good.

    Some pics of the streets around old town. We kind of threw in a couple of days here because hey - it's the capitol. It's a beautiful city and we're so glad we visited.Les mer

  • Bellu Cemetery

    4. juni 2022, Romania ⋅ ⛅ 91 °F

    This beautiful cemetery is open to the public. It was lovely to wander around and see how people have chosen to honor their lost loved ones.

    We all went, but Anya and I stayed and wandered around for a couple of hours.

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    Bellu Cemetery, located in Bucharest, Romania, is a place where history, art, and tranquility converge. Established in 1858, this sprawling cemetery is not only a final resting place for many notable figures but also a fascinating outdoor museum showcasing a wide array of architectural styles and funerary art. As you wander through the labyrinthine paths, you'll encounter grand mausoleums, ornate tombstones, and beautiful sculptures that pay tribute to the departed. The cemetery's serene atmosphere, adorned with lush greenery and picturesque alleys, invites contemplation and reflection. Bellu Cemetery is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Romania, offering a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of life, death, and art. Whether you visit to pay respects to the deceased or simply to appreciate the artistic beauty within this vast necropolis, Bellu Cemetery is a place that both captivates and honors the past.
    Les mer

  • Dinner, Treats, and Fountains

    4. juni 2022, Romania ⋅ ⛅ 79 °F

    Amidst the remnants of its communist past, Bucharest is reinventing itself as a vibrant and cosmopolitan European destination. Stroll through the charming Old Town, where centuries-old churches and neoclassical buildings stand alongside trendy cafés and lively bars. Immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at the grand Palace of Parliament, the second-largest administrative building in the world. Explore the fascinating museums, such as the Village Museum, which showcases traditional Romanian architecture, or the Art Collections Museum, home to impressive European art. Bucharest also boasts beautiful parks and gardens, like Herastrau Park, where you can relax by the lake or rent a boat for a leisurely ride. As the sun sets, the city comes alive with its vibrant nightlife scene, offering a blend of traditional folk music and modern beats.Les mer

  • Run at Herăstrău Park

    5. juni 2022, Romania ⋅ ☀️ 72 °F

    I ran 3.2 miles at Herăstrău Park. It's conveniently just off a metro stop. It's a large park with green grounds and lengthy paths surrounding Lake Herăstrău, which is fed by the Colentina River.

    I saw a lot of other runners there. It seems like a great place to get some exercise in the city. - Sean

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    Herastrau Park, nestled on the shores of Lake Herastrau in Bucharest, is a verdant escape from the city's bustling streets. This expansive urban oasis offers a breath of fresh air, inviting visitors to unwind and recharge amidst nature's embrace. Stroll along the park's picturesque pathways, lined with lush trees and colorful flowers, and feel the tranquil ambiance wash over you.
    Les mer

  • Peleș Castle Entry and First Floor

    5. juni 2022, Romania ⋅ ☀️ 73 °F

    We stopped by Sinaia on our way to Brasov. The little hunting lodge of King Carol I. Pronounced "pelesh".

    Our taxi ride up here was crrrraaazy.

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    Peles Castle, nestled in the scenic Carpathian Mountains of Romania, is a fairytale gem that exudes architectural marvel and romantic charm. This opulent palace captures the imagination with its intricate details and exquisite craftsmanship. Inside, visitors are greeted with luxurious interiors adorned with stunning woodwork, elaborate frescoes, and lavish furnishings. The castle is surrounded by serene gardens, offering a tranquil oasis amidst nature's beauty. As you explore Peles Castle, you'll also uncover a rich heritage that reflects Romania's royal history and artistic legacy. From its enchanting façade to its regal interiors, Peles Castle is a captivating destination that transports visitors to a world of beauty and grandeur.Les mer

  • Peleș Castle First Floor and Gardens

    5. juni 2022, Romania ⋅ ⛅ 73 °F

    We had a local tell us to skip the castle, it wasn't worth it. Boy, are we glad we ignored that advice!

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    King Carol I, the first monarch of modern Romania, played a pivotal role in shaping the country's history and identity. Born Prince Karl of Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen, he arrived in Romania in 1866 to become the country's ruler. With a vision for progress and nation-building, King Carol I embarked on an ambitious journey of modernization and development. Under his reign, Romania witnessed significant advancements in infrastructure, education, and cultural institutions. He oversaw the construction of remarkable landmarks, such as Peles Castle, an architectural masterpiece nestled in the Carpathian Mountains. King Carol I's leadership and dedication to his adopted country left a lasting legacy that is still evident today.Les mer

  • Romanian Trains - Always an Adventure

    5. juni 2022, Romania ⋅ ⛅ 70 °F

    Our family of 5 almost got thrown off a train yesterday using our eurail pass, and we're still not sure why. A fast talking young man that had some English clearly recognized our pass and that we had both the qr code and purchased seat reservations, and successfully argued on our behalf. They grudingly let us stay on.

    We bought seat reservations for Bucharest to Sanaia, and the conductor punched our paper with no issue. We stopped for a few hours to see Peles Castle.

    We then bought seat reservations from Sinaia to Brasov. The lady at the ticket window understood the eurail pass no problem and gave us the paper seat reservation as we got for the previous leg. This all seemed to follow what the eurail site and seat61 said we should do, and worked perfectly the first time.

    However, the conductor got very angry with us and wanted to see an "online ticket" and/or qr code. We showed him our qr codes in the app (double checked that they were done correctly and matched the paper tix) and the paper seat reservations.

    Another conductor came and they were both yelling at us that we would have to get off, pointing at the price on the seat reservations as too little. I tried to use Google Translate but they pushed it aside saying no no no, unfortunately (they were both older, so were maybe unfamiliar). Thank goodness for the young man that helped us, the one conductor finally threw up her hands and told us to just sit down. We started to go to our assigned seats and she said no, sit now, so we did.

    The young man that defended us seemed very exasperated with the conductor too, he had my phone and was clearly going through it and trying to explain it to her.

    We realized later that we did do everything correctly, and it's likely they were asking for a little money to smooth things over...
    Les mer

  • Dinner in Old Town Brasov

    5. juni 2022, Romania ⋅ ☀️ 73 °F

    Brasov is a lovely little town at the foothills of the Carpathians. Perfect base to see Bran Castle and visit the Romanian National Stables to see the lipizzans.

    Once again, Eowyn immediately made friends with the local kids despite not sharing any language. All of the adults present were enchanted - the waiter asked if she knew Romanian, and when we said no, he commented on how beautiful it is that kids play like this.Les mer

  • Lodging: Heart of Brasov

    5. juni 2022, Romania ⋅ ☁️ 59 °F

    Modern, newly renovated apartment in the heart of Brasov. The apartment building is located in a private courtyard, which adds safety and makes the apartment very quiet. Great if you want to be a 5 minute walk from all the attractions but dislike the noise of traffic/restaurants.
    It is perfect for large groups of friends or families for a short weekend stay, as well as guests looking to stay in Brasov for extended periods of times as it has a fully functioning kitchen.

    The apartment has been refurbished recently, including the bathrooms and the kitchen. I has been fitted with modern and stylish appliances. All the rooms have new furniture, including mattresses and pillows. It is spacious with a kitchen+ pantry and a large living/ dinning space.

    https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/25674122
    Les mer

  • Trail Run up Mt. Tâmpa

    6. juni 2022, Romania ⋅ ⛅ 63 °F

    I ran / hiked from our room in Brasov up nearby Mt Tampa. The mountain is part of the Carpathians and it was a beautiful place for a run. At the top there is a trail behind the Brasov sign above the city.

    I found the trail map on AllTrails. Some parts are narrow and rocky and not great for running, but other areas were very nice. I had a lot of fun! - Sean
    Les mer

  • Muntele Tâmpa

    7. juni 2022, Romania ⋅ ☀️ 63 °F

    This park, mountain, and the old walls and towers of Brasov are a delight!

    Rising majestically above the medieval town of Brasov, Muntele Tâmpa is a natural wonder that offers both stunning vistas and outdoor adventures. This forested hill, also known as Tampa Mountain, beckons travelers to embark on an exhilarating hike to its summit. As you ascend the winding trails, the panoramic views of Brasov and the surrounding Carpathian Mountains unfold before your eyes, rewarding your efforts with breathtaking beauty. For a more leisurely experience, take the cable car to the top and enjoy the same awe-inspiring views with minimal exertion. At the summit, you'll find a giant Hollywood-style "BRASOV" sign, providing the perfect backdrop for memorable photos. With its lush greenery and tranquil ambiance, Muntele Tâmpa is not just a natural retreat but also a haven for wildlife, including deer and foxes.Les mer

  • The Streets of Brasov

    7. juni 2022, Romania ⋅ ☀️ 66 °F

    This town is really lovely. Directly at the foothills with great walking paths, a medieval old town, modern shops, reliable internet and friendly people.

    Brasov, a charming medieval town nestled in the heart of the Transylvanian region of Romania. With its rich history, picturesque setting, and vibrant atmosphere, Brasov is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic taste of Eastern Europe. Stroll through the cobbled streets of the well-preserved Old Town, where colorful buildings and Gothic-style churches transport you to a bygone era. Take in the panoramic views from the iconic Black Church, the largest Gothic church in Romania, or wander along the defensive walls that once protected the town. Brasov also serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding countryside, including the breathtaking Carpathian Mountains and the legendary Bran Castle, famously associated with the story of Dracula. When it comes to dining, Brasov offers a delectable array of traditional Romanian cuisine, where you can savor hearty dishes and sample local specialties. With its blend of history, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, Brasov is an enchanting destination that will leave you captivated and longing for more.Les mer

  • Brasov Walking Tour

    8. juni 2022, Romania ⋅ ☀️ 66 °F

    Éowyn helped our tour guide lead us on a tour of Brasov.

    This area of Transylvania has a varied history from Vlad Tepes (who we call Dracula) to being a German town to life under the communists.

    It was interesting to hear our guide talk about Dracula. She commented on how he did a lot of things like impalement, but also held off the Turks. You could leave a pile of gold in the city streets and no one would take it. She commented that many people say they wish he would come back and clean things up!

    Catherine's Gate looks like something from a Disney fairy tale, but the small towers were actually a sign that once you passed in, the Germans had the authority up to and including the death penalty.

    Oh, and lots of bears. Half of all of Europe's 6000 bears live in the Carpathians. We didn't see any other than signs and statues.
    Les mer

  • Entering Castle Bran

    8. juni 2022, Romania ⋅ ⛅ 72 °F

    This was a highlight of Romania for me! Although it's not actually Vlad Tepes' castle 🏰, Bran Castle is the fortress that inspired Bram Stoker's Dracula...and boy, do they hype up the connection.

    Tour books will tell you to ignore the huge village of souvenir shops selling cheap vampire tchotchkes. However, I specifically wanted cheap vampire tchotchkes, so we had to check them out.

    I got a Dracula Tshirt, Castle Bran pin, and a Vlad Tepes' spoon rest. Yes, I said spoon rest. Yes, it's going in my kitchen.

    The real bat encased in resin was tempting, as was a vampire stein. Good thing we're packing light so I had to opt out.

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    Perched on a rugged hilltop in the heart of Transylvania, Castle Bran is the stuff of legends. With its dramatic turrets and mysterious atmosphere, it's no wonder that this fortress is often associated with the iconic Dracula tale. As you step inside, you'll uncover a fascinating history that stretches back to the 14th century. The castle's rooms are filled with an eclectic mix of medieval artifacts, furniture, and artwork, transporting you to a bygone era. From its narrow staircases to its secret passages, Castle Bran offers an intriguing glimpse into the past. But beyond its mythical connections, the castle boasts breathtaking views of the surrounding Carpathian Mountains, providing a picturesque backdrop for your exploration. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a Dracula aficionado, or simply in search of an adventure, a visit to Castle Bran is an essential part of any Transylvanian itinerary. So, grab your courage, cross the threshold, and immerse yourself in the captivating world of Castle Bran.
    Les mer