Our last stop in Salzburg, even though it wasn't really Austria (it's Germany) was Kehlsteinhaus, better known in English as the Eagle's Nest. This was a residence of Hitler and was actually given to him as a gift for his 50th birthday by the National Socialist Party. He didn't actually live there but had a mistress there and held many "business" meetings there. I had never heard of this place before is trip but was looking forward to learning about it and seeing it.
The Eagle's Nest is located very high up in the Bavarian Alps, but Hitler also had a home further down the mountain called the Bear Cove. We took a separate bus up the mountain and once we got up top, the views were incredible. I don't think I have ever been that high (6017 feet) in my life, minus being in an airplane. We were beyond lucky with the weather as it was so clear outside. I felt very weird being somewhere that Hitler stood. I was struck with such a wave of disgust and disbelief. But the fact is that Hitler and his inhumane and horrifying actions are important part of history. Never forget.
On the bus back from the mountain, I taught about half the bus about Instagram, Twitter, and the wonder of hashtagging. Because I am constantly trying to find a wi-fi signal and get online whenever I can, they think I am an Internet and social media genius. This is where our generation gap really shows. It was adorable how I had all eyes and ears on me as they listened so intently. If only I had had Internet and a smart board on the bus to show them all my skills!
The ride from Salzburg to Vienna was almost five hours but was broken up by a lunch break at a comfort stop. I have been craving a hamburger for three days now and you wouldn't believe how hard it seems to find beef here. I didn't want to have to go the fast food route, since I rarely-to-never do it at home, but desperate times for desperate measures so I caved and got Burger King. I don't think I have had BK in over five years but let me tell you, it was heavenly. I got a whopper and a small fry and absolutely housed it. My body was craving meat and iron so badly and thankfully this satisfied my craving. For now. Until the next time... And yes, of course I paid to pee at this stop too. Duh!
The Hilton Vienna that we are staying in is suuuuper nice. The room is enormous and the nicest one I've had on this trip thus far. One of the nicest I've ever stayed in. It even has a bidet!! (With an ashtray next to it for all the times you want to clean your ass and have a ciggie I guess. To each their own.) We had a little less than two hours to relax and do our own thing before our dinner excursion so I decided to go for a run. I wanted to check Austria off my list of countries I've run in. The weather here has been so perfect so far. As far as Europe weather goes, it's considered warm at 80 this time of year, but from what I have been reading about the temps and humidity in NYC, I am even happier to be here.
Because we are staying in this hotel for two nights, I attempted to hand wash my clothes again. The last time I did it, I never really felt like I got the clothes clean even though I used detergent and scrubbed them. But I am going to give it another go. My bag of dirty clothes is growing and odor isn't pleasant as you can imagine. Andi said when we get to Rome in a few days there is a laundry service they use who will pick up our clothes, wash them, and bring them back. It's 20 euro for 4 kg and I am most def jumping on that opportunity. Although I packed a lot, I feel if I didn't have this option, I could be in trouble. Not to mention my dirty laundry bag stinks!!
Tonight for dinner there was an additional excursion to a country restaurant called Marchfelderhoff. It is supposedly very well known and many celebrities, American and European, have eaten and visited there. The decor was out of this world as far as mixture of tacky and authentic. Each room was full of trinkets and chandeliers and all kinds of unique decorations/trinkets. The meal began with authentic homemade Apple Schnapps. Everyone had a shot waiting for them at the table and wow, I sure did feel the heat of the liquor run through my body. It was strong. We also had wine waiting for us at the table as well. For the meal, we started with garlic bread, salad (with an interesting tuna fish dressing), and I had Austrian bbq ribs for dinner. For dessert, a chocolate mousse. These Germans and Austrians sure like their food rich and hearty. That's for sure. After dinner a band came in our room and played some music for everyone to dance to, from the waltz to the chicken dance. After a ton of wine, everyone was in VERY good spirits and it was a very fun evening. Although I am having such a fab time on my own and even with some of the people in my group, I do sometimes wish I had someone my own age, male or female. But honestly, I am enjoying the company of many of the adults. Many have taken me under their wing and have told me what a delight I am. But all of you already know that about me! ;)
Anyway, hoping to see more of the city tomorrow and really explore some of the huge buildings we passed on the way in. They were enormous and regal. Should be interesting, but I'm excited. As per usual. Another day, another exploration.
No comments:
Post a Comment