Uneasy Rider

I’d planned to have an easy day today; sleeping in, working, maybe some shopping. But Mare, who I met yesterday while viewing dead bodies (you know, just a normal way to meet people), and I made contact via Facebook and she invited me with her to see some temples. When traveling solo long-term, it’s always […]
Jungle Spice

The plan for today is to tour Old Goa with Elvis (the friend of the friend) and his brother Elston. I believe I’ve mentioned that I used to work on board cruise ships, and Elvis and Elston both currently do (as do many Goans). They’re from Goa and both happen to be home on vacation […]
The Strong Hand of the Law and the Church

It’s another beautiful day today, so different than the everyday, winter-gloom that I experienced in Germany. But, just as I visited the head of government in Germany, the Reichstag (Parliament building), today I’ll visit the Parliament building here in Hungary. I head over to the Astoria Metro (subway) station and hand my ticket to the […]
No Fires, No Foes!

After a tasty dinner at the brewery, I walk over to St. Lamberti’s Church. Built between 1375-1450 (with another originally in the same spot prior to this), The history of this church, is like no other. In 1534 the city of Münster was seized by radical Anabaptists who expelled Prince-Bishop Franz von Waldeck. The Anabaptists were […]
I Want to Ride My Bicycle

Today I wake up in Münster, Germany. I didn’t sleep all that well as the fierce thunderstorm and flood of water sloshing down the balcony drain woke me. I’m told that winter thunderstorms are a rarity here. I’m also told they’ve had three so far this winter. The hotel is nice. I’m staying at the […]
Bremen – A City of Traditions, Fables and History

It’s raining. . . again, or perhaps still. I’ve lost track. I’ve come to accept that the most important item you can pack in your suitcase when you come to Germany in the winter is your umbrella. If you try to “let a smile be your umbrella,” you’re sure to get wet. Still, I have […]
The Good, the Bad and the Thank-you’s – Ireland
Today I get to tell you about what was good (or, dare I say, great), bad (or perhaps terrible) and who deserves thanks for helping to make this trip unforgettable. These are people and places you should make every effort to see if you do a similar trip. I’m also providing you with a list […]
Ireland, I Adare You

It’s time to bid farewell to Dublin. When I arrived I didn’t think it would be this hard but now, after staying for two extra nights in order to take it all in – also because of the whole not being able to find a place to stay in Kilkenny – I have a little […]
Mr. Beckett Keeps Me Waiting

After enjoying our whisky, uh, I mean Jameson’s tour, Min and I decide to catch some dinner together. This is the joy of solo travel; you meet so many great people. We head over to Ireland’s oldest pub, the Brazen Head. Established in 1198, the Brazen Head has served some of those famous Irish writers […]
Homeless in Dublin

This evening, I head out to Café en Seine (much different than Café Insane) for dinner. As I walk in, I’m struck by the sheer beauty of the inside of the building and the decor. Built in the 1700’s as a Georgian home, it’s now an award-winning restaurant with a beautiful atmosphere. Between the skylights […]