Well, our dream vacation is over. We did 30 days in 8 countries, and yes, everyone said we were crazy. We hit the highlights and saw all the items on our bucket list. We missed some things that we regret but maybe we can go back.
We travelled by train the entire time and LOVED it. It took us just places to feel that we were experts. Once we figured out the track issues, we were golden. I would do it again in a minute.
I have never felt so safe in my life. We walked a lot and 95% of the time never felt uneasy. When we did feel uneasy, it was enough to have us put up our guard and pay more attention.
I made a journal but I need to finish it. But here are the main points.
Brussels, Belgium is OK, we visited Bruges and Ghent and that was awesome. We got some great coffee here.
Munich, Germany very nice, although we had some issues with mailing back a package that still hasn't made it. We visited Linderhoff and Newschanstein (sp?) Castles. A dream come true.
Salzburg, Austria was wonderful. Took a Sound of Music tour and thoroughly enjoyed the levity of the tour guide. He made it so fun.
Zell Am See, Austria was a fantastic gem. Small village, quiet with lots to do.
Venice and Florence were awesome!!! Could go back again easily.
We did a stopover in Pisa for three hours from Florence to Rome. Totally worth it, the tower is awe inspiring.
Rome was awful, you couldn't pay me to go back. People were mostly rude and unhelpful but go for the sites. That was fantastic.
Greece was awesome and the Mediterranean Sea is gorgeous. Biggest regret is that we missed the coasts. Food great and people wonderful.
Zurich is beautiful but I nothing much except Rhine Falls is really beautiful.
Geneva-I could have skipped but we loved hearing our first taste of French and the people are so nice. Wish we had stayed in Lausanne near the lake.
Paris was awesome. Hint: take a nighttime boat on the Seine. We got to see the Eiffel Tower in twinkling lights. A highlight of our lives.
London was OK. It was so hot. Only subway system we couldn't maneuver. Summed it up as we were tired by this point so we took cabs. Cab drivers so nice and helpful and we discovered Cider. History is just magnificent there.
Well, I know I missed a lot but I'll be happy to answer any specific questions as best I can.
Jenny