My Travelling Experience

Saint Stephan's Cathedral (The Stephansdom)

2009-11-16T07:04:00.000-08:00

Modern high altar with a representation of the stoning of St. Stephan.

Gilt pulpit (18th cent.), crowned by the church personified in Ecclesia.

The Cathedral of St. Stephan: A view through the nave toward the altar.

The moving casing of the gigantic great organ bears the Lamberg coat-of-arms and hides both the largest and smallest pipes.

The Residence of the Bishops

2009-11-07T05:51:00.000-08:00

The square is bordered in the north by stately residential buildings, on the south side by the Neue Residenz (New Residence), the newer palace of the bishops, and on the west side by the Gothic east choir of the Cathedral as well as the Marshall's house which juts forth beside it. The Wittelsbacher Fountain, which was built in the Baroque style in 1903 to commemorate the annexation of Passau to Bavaria 100 years before, stands in the middle of the square. The column of the fountain is topped by Mary as the Queen of Heaven and patron saint of Bavaria, on whose lap the boy Jesus is seated. 3 angelic figures at their feet symbolise Passau's 3 rivers. The figure with the heads of grain in her hair is the Danube, which flows through the fruitful Bavarian alluvial plain. The figure with the pearls in her braids is the Ilz, in which fresh water mussels flourish even today that, in turn, produce valuable pearls. Last but not least, the figure wearing the Tyrolean hat is the Inn, which originates in the Alps.

The Loreley

2009-10-30T06:25:00.000-07:00

Still today, mention of the Romance of the Rhine conjures up a picture of the mighty state rock between Kaub and St. Goarhausen called the Loreley. Downstream the river was squeezed into its narrowest and deepest point; even in the 19th century, reefs and rapids made it extremely dangerous for ships and rafts to pass this point, so a tree bells warning told the crew it was time to pray. Moreover the rock was already famous in the early Middle Ages for its good echo, thought to be ghostly voices.

No wonder a multitude of legend was woven around the rock, the most famous of which is that of siren called Loreley, who bewitches the hearts of sailors with her unearthly beauty and her enchanting voice. The sailors look up at the rock to catch sight of the charming maiden, forgetting for just a moment the dangerous rapids and reefs. Their boat is dashed to pieces and they sank beneath the waves for ever.

This is what happened also to the young Erbgraf (heir to the Count's title) von Rheinphalz, who is lured to his doom in this way. His father orders that the witch on the rock be caught or killed. When soldiers bar the way back into her cave, she calls on her father, the Rhine, to help her.

Huge, foaming waves rise up out of the waters and carry the maiden away. Since then she has never been seen again. But sometimes, when the moon is shining bright, a mysterious singing is to be heard, described by Romanticist poets. Heinrich Heine's Song of Loreley, set to music by Slicher, made the Loreley Rock famous all over the world.

Rhine River Cruise

2009-10-12T14:51:00.000-07:00

This was taken during Columbus Day weekend. This is my 3rd time to ride the cruise but because my mother and sister in-laws visited us for the weekend; we took them to see Rhine River. Because the weather was not cooperating, it was terrible, cold and raining; we just stayed inside and played cards even the kids played cards also so they won't get bored. We still had a good time during our cruise.

The Mauseturm and the ruins of Burg Ehrenfels

2009-10-02T05:17:00.000-07:00

Here's some info about the castle:

On the Rhine island at Binger Loch the pretty little Mauseturm strikes our eye. It was probably built in the 13th century as a lookout tower for Ehrenfels Castle, which in spite of its towers and outworks had no view of the Rhine to the north. This is where the tower's name came from since mausen means to be on the lookout, the way a cat is on the lookout for a mouse. Legend, however, has another interpretation: the hardhearted Bishop Hatoo is said to have sought refuge in the tower from a horde of mice; in vain, the mice swam after him and devoured him.

The tower and Ehrenfels castle were partly destroyed by Swedish troops in 1636 and then completely ruined by the French in 1689. The Romanticist on the Throne, King Friedrich Wilhelm of Prussia, had the base of the outwork propped up and repaired and then the tower rebuilt in 1855 in Neo-Gothic style. From then on until 1974 the tower served Rhine navigation purposes as a signal station.

The ruin in the midst of the vineyards above the Mausenturm is what is left of Burg Ehrenfels. The castle along with its subsidiary buildings, used to stretch right down to the Rhine, the final building right next to the river being the customs house.

It was built around 1215 as a customs fortress and passes into the possession of the archbishops of Mainz around 1270. Because of its strategic importance, the archbishops of Mainz around 1270.

Because of its strategic importance, the archbishops had it reinforced many times and used it as a hiding place for Cathedral treasures in times of war.

Ehrenfels has remained a ruin since it was destroyed by the French (1689). With its mighty curtain wall facing the hillside flanked by towers, it is one of the most impressive constructions along the Rhine.

This castle is not open to the public due to danger of collapse.

Buchingham Palace

2009-09-03T07:29:00.000-07:00

Me and my daughter posing in front of Queen Victoria's statue, behind it was Buckingham Palace during summer vacation. It was cloudy and luckily it did not rain so we started to walk again to see more museums, churches and other nice and historic places.

Stonehenge in England

2009-08-12T07:40:00.000-07:00

Stonehenge has fascinated people for hundreds of years. This mysterious structure of giant stone blocks in southern England receives more than 1 million visitors each year. Although no one is certain, experts believe people built Stonehenge in ancient times as a tribal gathering place and religious center.

Archaeologists suggest that Stonehenge was built between 2800 and 1500 B.C. in three separate stages. Overtime, people changed the look of Stonehenge. They added to and rearranged the enormous stone blocks. Archeologists believe the stones originally sat in three rings with two horseshoe-shaped structures in the center.

Only parts of the third ring and horseshoe center remain today. Some of the center stones stand 22 feet (6.7 meters) tall and weigh 30 to 40 tons (27 to 36 metric tons).

Dublin

2009-07-10T03:28:00.000-07:00

Dublin, the capital of the Republic of Ireland, has one of the loveliest settings in Europe. On Dublin Bay, the Town of the Hurdle Ford--Baile Atha Cliath in Gaelic--is sheltered on the north by the rocky mass of Howth Head. The River Liffey flows through the center of the city and is crossed by many picturesque bridges. The name Dublin is derived from tne Gaelic word of black pool:dublinn

Dublin has produced some of the world's greatest literary figures. Most notably, the city was the home of James Joyce, nearly all of whose writings are based in the city of his birth. Also born in Dublin were Oscar Wilde, who attended Trinity College, and Jonathan Swift, who served as Dean of St. Patrick's Cathedral. George Bernard Shaw was born at No.33 Synge St. in 1856. Other well-known Dubliners include Edmund Burke, Thomas Moore, James Stephens, Sean O'Casey, Samuel Beckett and Richard Brinsley Sheridan.

Rhine River Cruise

2009-07-09T12:53:00.000-07:00

These photos were taken last 2 weeks ago during our trip to Rhine River cruise. The cruise started at Bingen port to St. Goar. We stopped at St. Goar and have some ice cream and took some pictures. St. Goar is a small city but wonderful. Full of castles both side of the river. Very nice city....

Have a nice day to y'all....

4th of July Weekend in Partnach Gorge

2009-07-06T02:22:00.000-07:00

These photos were taken last weekend for our 4th of July celebration. We walked for more than 2 hours from the camping site to the Partnach Gorge. We got lose many times but we still found it and when we got there, it was beautiful and amazing site. It was worth it to walked that long and even though I was tired and sore for walking it was worth while. We ended up walking because the trip from Edelweiss Lodge and Resort was full and so we decided to walk instead of driving because the receptionist said that it only takes 45 minutes to walk. Since I want to have an exercise that day, we planned to walk. I was pissed because we always missed the turn and it took us more than 2 hours to get the Partnach Gorge. It was really beautiful and I was planning to go back there next time we go there (maybe next year!). I recommend to all people who likes to hike and see the wonderful God made.

Have a wonderful day y'all.....

The Lion King Live show...

2009-07-05T08:58:00.000-07:00

These photos were taken last June during our 1 week vacation in London. It was my first time to see Live show, it was great experience.

Dublin, Ireland

2009-07-02T07:45:00.000-07:00

Me, my daughter Leera and my husband's niece Eclipse posing at Dublin Zoo in Ireland during our 1 week vacation in London. The kids were having fun seeing african savannah animals. Eclipse even making face about the giraffe, he he... The weather was hot and thank God it wasn't raining at Ireland when we went there. Irish people said that the weather there is always raining 7 days a week. It was really nice day at Dublin.

England

2009-06-04T07:21:00.000-07:00

"Cambridge University"

"Westminster Abbey"

These photos were taken during our trip in United Kingdom or England. We spent our Christmas and New Year with the help of my sister in-law. She is station in Lakenheath, England. She showed us how beautiful London is. We did enjoy our stays there.

Have a nice day...

Beautiful Flowers

2009-06-01T06:58:00.000-07:00

"Apricot Parrot"

"Yonina"

These are my favorite flowers during our trip in Keukenhof, Holland last year. April is the best time to go to Holland because it's tulips season. You will find all sort of tulips and flowers. During that time, you will also see what they call it carpet flower. On the farm, they planted different kind of flowers with different colors. It was beautiful....I even bought some tulips there (Holland) on the way home but I was disappointed because they don't sell the one I want. I still bought different kind but it was small not like the one you see on Keukenhof Garden. The only thing it was worth it to buy was the Dahlia and I planted in front of our yard. Just one Dahlia, it grew a lot of flowers. I've learned that Dahlia doesn't grow all year long, once it died during winter, it won't grow anymore.

Luxembourg

2009-05-25T06:41:00.000-07:00

This is the Notre Dame Cathedral in Luxembourg, nothing alike in France. When we went inside, it was small. We stayed inside for less than 15 minutes after I took some pictures. It was hot and sunny day when we were there so we didn't really stay long (Luxembourg) because the heat was draining my energy. This photo was our second trip because our first one, I deleted my pictures accidentally. It was excited when it was your first timer in a place you haven't been but if the place wasn't that good you don't want to go back. Since I don't have any pictures, I forced my husband to drive to go back in a boring country just to have another boring photos! That's my opinion only!!!!

Have a nice day to y'all....

Stockholm, Sweden

2009-05-14T12:41:00.000-07:00

My daughter{Leera}, my cousin's wife{Krystel} and me posing inside the Vasa Museum in Stockholm, Sweden. Sweden is very nice country and courteous people. I missed our trip in Sweden and hopefully before we go back in USA, we will see Sweden again for the last time. Staying here in Europe was the best stationed we have been. It's memorable, good and bad experience and most of all, enjoyable...Taking pictures or videos are the things you need for your trip to reminded that you have been in that places or country and you've enjoy every trips....I didn't regret staying here in Europe because not just you're having fun on your trips, I'd also met some good people and friends!

Collectable Crystals

2009-05-11T01:28:00.000-07:00

These photos were taken last April in Innsbruck, Austria during my daughter's spring break . I took these photos because I'm a collectable person. I collected some good stuffs but these one couldn't have it because the price is way too expensive so taking these pictures just reminding me that I can't have everything I want, he he...I have been a member of Swarovski crytals since 2003 and I remembered when first time I started to collect, they only sells christmas decorations, disney characters, different kind of fishes, insects and animals. But now they expanded their imagination by doing or making more jewelry and they even have shoe and bra(???). Good thing, I didn't see any underwear??? he he...What else they could think of next??? I guess the bra is also just diplay because if they wear it, how they will wash it or maybe just one time use? ha ha ha...he he he....Remember the Victoria's Secret most expensive underwear and bra that made of diamonds? I remebered when Heide Klums wore it, did she own it or what? I told my husband if he has a million dollars and buy me that lingerie, I won't wear it because once I wear it, I won't be able to display because it's been used!!!!

Have a wonderful summer day....

Marienbrucke or Marien Bridge

2009-05-08T11:23:00.000-07:00

Marienbrucke or Marien Bridge- As a child Crown Prince Ludwig had already grown to love the beautiful scenery of the Schwangau arca, including the dramatic waterfall in the Pollatschlucht above Neuschwanstein. This gorge with its steep rocky walls had already been "discovered" by Maximilan II's generation as a beauty spot. The wooden railings of the bridge that spans it, the Marienbrucke, were replaced by Ludwig II during the building of Neuschwantein by the present elegant, cantilever construction made of iron. "The view from up above is enchanting, especially the view from the Marienbrucke of the castle, which will far outshinc the Wartburg for all its acknowledged merits of location, architectural splendour and magnificent paintings," wrote King Ludwig II in a letter in 1881.

Neuschwanstein Castle

2009-05-03T12:28:00.000-07:00

Neuschwanstein Castle- Between 1869 and 1886 King Ludwig II of Bavaria had Neuschwanstein castle built on the Swan Rock, high above the beautiful Alpsee Lake and close to the thundering waters of the 45 meter high Pollat Gorge. The castle was designed by Eduard Riedel, the stage-painter Christian Jank and the architect Georg Dollmann. With its pointed towers, tall and slender, Neuschwanstein is a fantasy realized in stone. On May 13th 1868, the 23 year old King wrote to Wagner: "I intend to rebuild the old castle ruins of Hohenschwangau by the Pollat Gorge in the genuine style of the old German knightly fortresses....the spot is one of the most beautiful that one could ever find."

The 5-story castle, built in Romanesque style using the Wartburg castle as a model, is with its many scenes from Wagner's stage-world, the embodiment of a romantic, medieval castle.

Lohengrin and Tannhauser, the Song Contest(in the Wartburg), Parzival's Grail and many other heroes and sages of the German middle ages come miraculously to life on the walls of Neuschwanstein.

On 9th June 1886 a State Commission traveled to Hohenschwangau to remove the King. 3 days later, King Ludwig II made his last journey from Neuschwanstein to Castle Berg. On 13th June, Ludwig was found drowned under mysterious circumstances in the Starnberger Lake.

Hohenschwangau Castle

2009-05-02T01:16:00.000-07:00

This is Hohenschwangau Castle where King Ludwig II's parents live

Hohenschwangau Castle- standing on a wooded hill between two beautiful lakes-the Alpsee Lake and the Swan Lake. Hohenschwangau was originally the seat of the Lords of Schwangau in the 12th century.
Ludwig's father, Maximilan II, bought the ruins as Crown Prince in 1832 and had them rebuilt and romantically decorated by the designer and stage-painter Domenik Quaglio in the style of the middle ages.
Ludwig II spent a large part of his childhood and youth in Hohenschwangau Castle. It was here that he first came into contact with the saga of the Swan Knight Lohengrin, through the murals by Michael Neher and Lorenz Quaglio, and like his father, he came to feel a close bond to the Knights of Schwangau and their history.

Linderhof Castle

2009-05-01T00:00:00.000-07:00

Linderhof Palace- Built according to the Baroque and Rococco styles, Linderhof Palace, also known as the "The Royal Villa", is situated in Graswang valley in the vicinity of Cloister Ettal, and the "Passion-Play Village" of Oberammergau. This relatively small but richly endowed palace is set in parkland and gardens, covering a total area of almost 200 acres which blend perfectly with the impressive mountainous landscape.

Both the palace and the park represent fine examples of the varied and diverse lifestyle of the 19th century. In the gardens are to be found examples of French, Italian, and English horticultural and landscape styles, together with buildings such as the Moorish Kiosk, the Moroccan House, the "Hunding's Hut", and the "Hermits Hut", and the world-famous Venus Grotto. The palace itself portrays a glorification of absolute monarchy. The style of the palace draws on the great epoch of the french Baroque and Rococco rulers, principally the period of Louis XIV. and Louis XV. of France.

The rich and often ornate gold and silver decorations serve as "Picture Frames" for the works of art. Pictures, mirrors, statues as well as valuable fabrics and materials compete for the attention of the visitor. The royal rooms and chambers appear as precious jewel boxes which are almost too rich and too beautiful to live in. A fitting atmosphere for "The Last True King", (Paul Verlaine). The monarch spent the last eight years of his life almost exclusively at Linderhof Palace, which was always his favourite domicile. Ludwig visited France several times, especially the Palace of Versailles, in order to find inspiration and impetus for the overall design and construction of Linderhof Palace.

Me and my family posing in front of King Ludwig's Castle the Linderhof. One of the King's favorites and finished castle.

Southern garden-area with ornamental pool

Austria

2009-04-29T00:58:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful nature....These were taken last spring break April 3, 2009 coming from Neuschwanstein Castle going back to our hotel in Edelweiss. There is a still snow on the Alps of Austria.

Parade at Europa Park

2009-04-22T15:26:00.000-07:00

Parade. All Europa-Park performers on stage at once; that only happens during the great Europa-Park Parade. Cheerful clowns, Peter Pan, dancers and Euromaus with his friends all take part with their brilliant costumes and parade through the streets of themed areas on lovingly decorated theme floats.

Pretty Women and very nice dress

Beautiful Ladies...

Is she lovely?

Lovely couple (kuno)

Pretty Mermaid

Moula Rouge or dancer (I'm not really sure)

Me posing

Cheerful Clown

The Duel of the Brothers show

2009-04-20T12:17:00.000-07:00

As I promise, here's some photos that I took during our trip in Europa Park. This show was "The Duel of the Brothers." As I recall, I mentioned it or wrote it in my blog what's about. I will mention it again for reminder. Horses nervously paw the sand in the arena with their hooves. The actors don their armour, become one with their respective roles, their concentration focused on the spectacular stunts, their weapons and shields ready to hand. The fight between good and evil can begin.

bad guy

good guy

knights

Crystal World

2009-04-16T07:21:00.001-07:00

Me and Eclipse were posing behind the tree that made in crystal.

Leera and Eclipse were posing behind the wall that full of crystals.

My sister in-law Helen, her daughter Eclipse, my daughter Leera, Me and my husband Mario. Before we enter the Swarovski Crystal World, we posed in front of it. It was beautiful day when we went to Austria.

Spring Break

2009-04-13T15:47:00.000-07:00

This is how we spent my daughter's Spring Break by going in a trip in Europa Park. This was my daughter's second trip and my 1st with my sister in-law and her daughter. At first, I don't want to go because I'm afraid of heights but my sister in-law convinced me and told me that I don't have to take the rides if I don't want to. But when we got there, I saw the rides were not that bad so I decided to go with them on the rides. First rides were the one inside the globe named Euro Sat, it was dark and you can't see anything but you can feel it that you are going up. Once you get to the top (still dark), you'll hear count down, then the rides starts moving. It surprises me because I was not expecting the rides like that. It was still dark so I closed my eyes the whole time while the rides were moving but I can still feel it though and it was going fast with unexpected turn and with my surprise, there were different lights while we are going down. I didn't know because my eyes were closed. We want to go back but the lines were very long and we don't want to waste any of our time for just one ride so we moved on to the next rides. We are not the one who’s making decision what’s next ride to take because these are the kid’s spring break so we are just following them. On the next rides, we are all together on the line but when we get there to get our seats for the ride, we got separated. We decided to split since the kids were interested on riding all the rides they could, we (adults) decided to see the shows instead.

We enjoyed watching the shows (I wish I brought my video camera instead of digital camera). When we and the kids were separated, first, we watched “The Duel of the Brother” (Spain Arena). It does about the horses nervously paw the sand in the arena with their hooves. The actors don their armour, become one with their respective roles, their concentration focused on the spectacular stunts, their weapons and shields ready to hand. The fight between good and evil can begin. The second show we saw was “The Ice Show” (Greece territory). It’s a Greek ice stadium is transformed into a palace of artistry; join the Europa-Park skaters on a dream trip through different dimensions. Experience the thrill of dynamic ice dances, acrobatic handstands, spectacular stunts on the ice and artistic gyrations above your head to the sound of live singing. Lastly, we saw “The Magia or Magic Cinema 4D” (Italian territory). It’s about cards change hands at lightning speed, birds glide weightlessly through space. The air is vibrant with magic. This composition of comedy, acrobatics and dance will enchant you, illusion or reality?

On my next blog, I will post some photos we watched. We really had a good time and when time will permit, we will go back there. This time we will take the car instead taking the bus. Have a wonderful day.....

Poseidon rides

The first ride we took named Euro Sat...

Me posing behind the Easter eggs decoration.

My daughter Leera

Heidelberg Castle

2009-03-31T07:02:00.000-07:00

We were standing at the mighty arches of the Old Bridge. This is the Heidelberg Castle at night. What a beautiful view.

Bern, Switzerland

2009-03-30T06:16:00.000-07:00

The old man let me try to mix the 20 gallons (maybe more?) of cow milk in a huge pot to make a cheese. As you can see, he doesn't have the new technology to make the cheese on easy way. He is the only one who does the old fashion way in their entire town and he doesn't have any helper. It probably took him over a week before he made a cheese.

These are the items you need to make a cheese in old fashion way.

Saint-'Etienne's Cathedral

2009-03-28T17:21:00.000-07:00

The Choir
Dominated by the glorious Cross as well as the bishop's throne symbolizing the bishop's doctrinal authority, the new choir, Matia Bonetti's work, was consecrated on Dec. 17th 2006. It's an open space where God makes himself near, where he can be listened to , met, touched and received.

Here, every Sunday, "the mass of all centuries is said on the two tables": at the ambo that of the word and at the altar that of Eucharistie, the source and the summit of the Church's life.

In the upper choir the beautiful stalls made by the cabinet maker and sculptor Theophile Klem (Colmar 1914) remind that the canons have the responsibility of the sanctuary. En semaine, at 8.40 they celebrate the Service asking people to pray with them while offering :all that is going to come to life or die under the rising sun" (Teilhard de Chardin)

Saint-'Etienne's Cathedral-built from 1220 to 1520. Saint-'Etienne's Cathedral, with its magnificent 13th to 20thC stained glass (Chagall...), towers above the city. Its 140 ft-high Gothic nave is one of the most impressive of its kind in the world.

Extraordinary Tales & Legends

A pact with the devil-the architect, Peirre Perrat, was said to have entered into a pact with the devil to solve the problems he was having in building the Cathedral. But, as a subtle and wily man, the architect succeeded in outwitting the devil and save his soul.

Graoully- a cruel dragon, Graoully, terrified the people of Metz until Saint Clement trapped it with his stole and drowned it.

Saint Nicolas- Saint Nicolas, patron saint of Lorraine, brought three children back to life after they had been chopped into bits by a horrible butcher. Saint Nicolas' Day procession opens the end of year celebrations with a distribution of sweets.

Easter Day- on Easter Day, a rabbit hides chocolate eggs in the gardens of the town to the delight of the children who go searching for them.

Lorraine American Cemetery and Memorial

2009-03-25T16:02:00.000-07:00

Beneath the five figures is inscribed:

OUR FELLOW COUNTRYMEN-ENDURING ALL AND GIVING ALL THAT MANKIND MIGHT LIVE IN FREEDOM AND IN PEACE. THEY JOIN THAT GLORIOUS BAND OF HEROES WHO AHVE GONE BEFORE.

The wall bearing the sculptured figures which form the background of the chapel is of Massangis limestone from the Cot d'Or region of France; beneath the figures is the altar of French green Antique Patricia marble upon which is inscribed this text from St. John X,28.

I GIVE UNTO THEM ETERNAL LIFE AND THEY SHALL NEVER PERISH.

This cemetery is the biggest American Cemetery in Europe. Here's some history of Lorraine American Cemetery.

The U.S. 3rd Army resumed its pursuit of the enemy across France early in September 1944, after a brief halt because of a shortage of fuel. Except at Metz, where extremely heavy fortifications and resistance were encountered, the U.S. 3rd Army advanced rapidly and crossed the Moselle River. By late September, Nancy was liberated and a juncture with the U.S. 7th Army, which was advancing northward from the beaches of southern France, was made near Epinal. Upon the joining of these 2 Armies, a solid Allied front was established extending to the Swiss border.
Throughout October, the two Armies pushed aggressively eastward against increasingly strong resistance. The U.S. 3rd Army drove toward the Saar River and the U.S. 7th Army into the Vosges Mountains, as the enemy fortress at Metz continued to resist. On 8 November 1944, the U.S. 3rd Army launched a major offensive toward the Saar River. During this offensive, the main fortress at Metz was encircled and it capitulated on 22 November. Its outer forts, however, did not surrender until 13 December. Bypassing this resistance, the U.S. 3rd Army continued to advance, capturing Saarquemines on 6 December 1944. By mid-December, several bridgeheads had been established across the Saar River and the U.S. 3rd Army had begun preparations for breaching the Siegfried Line. Meanwhile on 11 November, the U.S. 7th Army to the south launched an attack eastward capturing Saarebourg on 20 November 1944. Moving rapidly, it outflanked, then penetrated the vital Saverne Gap in the Vosges Mountains. Sending the French 2d Armored Division to liberate Strasbourg on the Rhine River, the U.S. 7th Army turned northward advancing along the west bank of the Rhine against the defenses of the Siegfried Line, simultaneously aiding the U.S. 3rd Army’s operations to the north.
Throughout these operations, the U.S. 9th Air Force and the U.S. 1st Tactical Air Force rendered vital air support to the U.S. 3rd and 7th Armies, respectively, despite severe rainstorms and cold weather.
The progress of the two U.S. armies was halted temporarily by the enemy’s final major counter-offensive of the war, which began in the Ardennes Forest on 16 December 1944. Officially designated the Ardennes-Alsace Campaign, it became known as the “Battle of the Bulge.” The U.S. 3rd Army moved quickly northward to counter this threat, as the U.S. 7th Army and the French First Army to its south extended their lines northward to cover more front. The second phase of the enemy’s final counteroffensive was launched on New Year’s Eve against the U.S. 7th Army. The assault began as a drive for the Saverne Gap followed by an attack across the Rhine toward Strasbourg. After furious fighting on all fronts in bitterly cold weather, the last major enemy offensive was halted and the U.S. 3rd and 7th Armies resumed their assault on the Siegfried Line. The line was soon broken and all enemy units were cleared from the west bank of the Rhine. In March 1945, the two U.S. armies crossed the Rhine River and began their drive into Germany.

Metz, France

2009-03-23T02:37:00.000-07:00

Metz bahnhof or train station.

This church was damaged last WWII and the rest of it was gone.

These apartments need to take a boat before you get inside. There are advantage and disadvantage to live in these apartments. Disadvantage is when there is an emegency, you can't leave until you wait for the boat gets there. The advantage is nobody can just go inside without the boat.

These photos were taken last Saturday on Metz, France. This is the biggest Flea Market in Europe. They sell antique stuffs and the price was too steep. It was too steep, we ended up buying nothing....We spent 2 1/2 hours to find the nice thing but we couldn't find any because we can't afford the price. The cheapest stuffs they sell that I saw was old dvd movie for the price of 15 Euro each. We found a lot of antique stuffs from old photos (from WWII) to the furniture. They even have very old binoculars and cameras. I don't recommend this place for those people who doesn't like antique and if you are antique lovers then you have to bring lots of Euros and bags and big transportation.

Berlin's Parliament

2009-02-26T06:16:00.000-08:00

Reichtag Building- Platz der Republik which once housed the German Parliament, was burned by the Nazis in 1933. Rebuilt, it now contains exhibits depicting the history of Germany.

The German Bundestag is the heart of democracy. The Dedication "Dem Deustchen Volke" (means "To the German People") is mounted above the western portico of the Reichstag Building. Whoever sits as a Member is elected by the German people and makes laws for everyone living in Germany. The Bundestag is an open House. Indeed, since it has been located in Berlin, it has become a world-famous tourist attraction. More and more visitors are taking the opportunity to gain a direct insight into parliamentary proceedings and are inspired by the indelible impression of the redesigned Reichstag Building. Guest from around the world make sure they do not leave Berlin without visiting the Bundestag. Groups of visitors from German constituencies who want to see their Member of the Bundestag in action in Berlin join the bustling throng of politicians, journalists and staff around the Reichstag Building, the new parliamentary buildings, the Brandenburg Gate and the Federal Chancellery. Pleasure boats sail on the arc of the River Spree, conveying tourists and day trippers who wish to look into the heart of democracy. The Bundestag is one of the highlights of every visit to Berlin-and there is no entrance charge for anyone visiting Parliament.

Brandenburger Tor or Brandenburg Gate

2009-02-23T06:23:00.000-08:00

Brandenburg gate- just east of Tiergarten at the end of Unter den Linden , was built 1788-89 as the imperial entrance to Berlin. Its Doric columns were fashioned after the Propylaea of the Acropolis in Athens. Napoleon Bonaparte confiscated the gate's Goddess of Victory when he captured Berlin in 1806, but the crownpiece was returned to the city after emperor's defeat in 1814.

The gate was a stronghold for government troops in the 1919 Communists uprising and was badly damaged in World War II. A replica of the Goddess of Victory, a gift from the former West Berlin, now decorates the gate.

Snows.....

2009-02-20T06:12:00.000-08:00

These photos taken last valentines day during our trip to Hahn Airport going to Berlin. It was a beautiful and exquisite day... It was really nice to see the wonderful nature. I enjoyed taking pictures of natures especially here in Germany.

It was really nice to see the refreshing clean, breezy and cool green Christmas Tree with real snows.....

More refreshing green Christmas Tree....

Royal Windsor Castle

2009-01-14T09:12:00.000-08:00

Windsor symbolises royalty, power and pageantry in Britain, and in this royal town it is often possible to witness two scenes of majesty, separated by 1,000 years of history, each a jewel in a nation's crown.

One a strong and noble castle over which a supersonic bird, Concorde, brings some of the millions who, for a while, step back in time to capture so much which has shaped this nation's colourful history.

It is of course inevitable that our long line of monarchs should figure greatly in the history of Windsor and its castle, for like Queen Elizabeth II today, the kings and queens before her have made Windsor their home and sometimes their fortress.

To-day Windsor Castle is foremost a palace as its official title suggests, for it is, when correctly named: "Her majesty's Royal Palace and Fortress of Windsor Castle", thus it is not only the home of Her Majesty but also the official welcoming place for visiting heads of state. It is also the scene of the splendour of the Garter Ceremony and Banquets, which would do justice to traditions of long ago.

Like other official royal residences members of Her Majesty's armed forces mount sentry duty, whilst for ceremonial occasions they are joined by the Household Cavalry.

William the Conqueror(1066-1087) saw the military advantages of the chalk cliff rising 100 feet above the Thames and started building at Windsor in 1070.

Native labour was out to work by Norman Soldiers on the "motte and bailey" castle.

They began by digging a deep ditch and the earth removed was piled up to form the central artificial mound (known as the motte). This formed the strongpoint or keep, now the Round Tower.

To-day's visitors enter the Castle through King Henry VIII Gateway on Castle Hill.

The Gateway features six slits through which boiling oil or molten lead could be tipped onto attackers. Once over the Gateway threshold a panoramic view of the Castle's Lower Ward meets the eye.

Salisbury Cathedral

2009-01-13T02:48:00.000-08:00

Salisbury Cathedral is the Britain's finest 13th Century Cathedral and an international symbol of Christianity. It was built in 38 years from 1220 and is unique in being almost entirely in one architectural style, Early English Gothic.

Key facts about Salisbury Cathedral:

* Britain's tallest spire (123m/ 404ft)

* Finest of only four surviving original (1215) Magna Carta

* Europe's oldest working clock (1386)

* Britain's largest Cathedral cloisters

* Earliest surviving complete set of choir stalls in Britain

* Largest Cathedral Close in Britain

New Year with New Change!

2009-01-12T07:14:00.000-08:00

Hello my fellow bloggers, friends and family....its 2009, New Year with new attitude, new life and hopefully new change! I have lots of photos to share with you after spending our holidays in England for 10 days with the help of my sister in-law. She showed us the nice and full of histories place in England. Too many histories I don't know where to start. We enjoyed our trip there with the cooperation of sunshine. It was sunshine the whole time we were there except 1 day experienced of light shower and 1 day bitterly cold weather. We didn’t waste any time or days staying home except the 24th of December, my husband and my daughter got sick. The next day, they were feeling a lot better so we started to visit the beautiful England. The first place we visited and saw was the England’s landmark “The Stonehenge” or hanging stone. Some people believe that the Stonehenge was made by aliens but I believe it was human. Remember the Pyramid in Egypt??? It took a long time to build it by human with the help of animals like Elephants and Camels but they did finish it. You could be the judge once you see it in person.

Stonehenge is the most outstanding prehistoric monument in the British Isles and is a World Heritage Site. It’s set in the middle of Salisbury Plain. It was started 5,000 years ago and remodeled several times in the following 1500 years. The encircling ditch, bank, and “Aubrey Hole” belong to the late Neolithic period. Great Sarcen Stones (huge sandstone boulders) were dragged from the Marlbrough Downs, twenty miles north, and erected as they are today-in an outer ring with lintels, and inner horseshoe of five pairs of uprights with lintels.

X'mas Market

2008-12-08T17:34:00.000-08:00

These photos were taken last 2 weeks ago at Rothenburg, Germany. Famous Kathe Wohlfahrt.....

Hitler's Eagle's Nest

2008-11-10T14:48:00.000-08:00

Fireplace

What a nice view from the top of the mountain.

Eagle's Nest was built and designed for Adolf Hitler's 50th Birthday by Martin Bormann, one of his personal secretary and Head of the Nazi Party Chancellery. Its monument called "Kehlsteinhaus" or "Teahouse".

Chocolate Factory

2008-11-08T14:57:00.000-08:00

This photo was taken last January of this year with my friend at Laaber, Germany. I loved their chocolates with different varieties. Not only chocolate they sell, they also have gummies, candies, different of nuts like macadamia, peanut, cashew and many more but my favorite one is cashews coated with white chocolate, yummy....

Austria

2008-11-07T14:55:00.000-08:00

At the crossroads of Europe, Wien or Vienna was for a thousand years the capital of the farflung Holy Roman and Habsburg empires. Today it is the capital of the Austrian Republic and serves as an international congress city. Though its people and ways have changed, Vienna has retained its imperial monuments, not as reminders of past glories, but as living symbols of its present freedom.

Waffle with ice cream

2008-11-06T14:25:00.000-08:00

Hmmmm, yummy.....famous waffle with ice cream in Brussel, Belgium.

Food and Drink- surrounded by other countries known for their haute cuisine, Belgium has managed to create a cuisine that is unmistakably its own. Tomates aux crevettes, tomatoes stuffed with shrimp, is a gustatory delight. Witloof, or chicory, garnishes a number of main dishes. The sandy Mechelen region produces wonderful asparagus; ham comes from the Ardennes. Mussels are especially good in Brussels and on the coast; in Namur fried eel is a local treat. Many varieties of boudin, or sausage, are always available. Seafood specialties such as crayfish, lobster, filet of sole and waterzooi- fish or chicken stew- are invariably delicious. Frites, or fried potatoes, are a nationalfavorite. Those with a sweet tooth can enjoy a variety of cakes, chocolates, waffles and typical biscuits such as apeculoos. Belgium also offers about 400 varieties of beer and nearly 200 types of genievre, or gin.

More photos at Vasa Museum

2008-11-05T07:37:00.000-08:00

Vasamuseum in Stockholm

2008-11-04T07:04:00.000-08:00

By 1953, Anders Franzen knew that Vasa ought to lie somewhere in the Stockholm harbour. He designed a lead with a core sampler to collect materials from the seabed. On a chart he marked all areas where the depth was approximately 30 meters.

On 20 August the Neptun Salvage Company lifted the Vasa Steel cables were connected to the pontoons, Oden and Frigg. Alongside were two salvage vessels, Sleipner and Atlas, the tender, Sprangaren, and the Navy diving boat, Belos. By alternately filling and emptying the pontoons of water, the Vasa was slowly lifted out of the clay in one piece. In 16 stages she was moved to shallower water, until she lay at a depth of 15 meters near Kastellholmen.

In 1957, Navy divers began their work. The Vasa stood on even keel, sunken in mud and clay up to the lower gun deck. It was decided to drive six tunnels under the hull.
The Vasa’s weight was estimated at 700 tons, including its ballast of stone, clay and sludge. By the summer of 1959, the tunnels had been completed. Two 6-inch steel cables were passed through each tunnel.

More photos from the Icebar

2008-11-03T06:51:00.000-08:00

Absolut Icebar sculptor

Absolut drinks....

My daughter Leera posing on one of the amazing sculptor that made in ice.

The mixed ingredients for the drinks. Now, you can make your own drinks...

Have a nice day to y'all....

Snowhall in Lorraine, France

2008-11-02T06:40:00.000-08:00

This the indoor ski and this is me, it looks like I'm professional and know what I'm doing but when I got to the bottom, boom! I fell. There is a proof, ha ha ha......

Icebar Stockholm

2008-11-01T08:24:00.000-07:00

I was psoing holding the huge glass that made of ice outside the hotel we stayed in.

Me and my cousin's wife (Krystel) with the bartender in Absolut Ice Bar.

Krystel, Me, my husband Mario and my cousin Lester drinking with Absolut Icebar Stockholm and Absolut Mountain Aven. The Absolut Icebar Stockholm is made of mixed Absolut APeach, Pineapple juice, Orange juice and Blue Curacao Syrup. The Absolut Mountain Aven is made of mixed of Absolut Pears, Pineapple juce, Elder flower juice and a hint of lemon.The glasses, tables, chairs, and the walls are made of ice. The temperature is below zero degrees, that's why we all wearing their special jackets with gloves. On my next blog, I will post how to make the drinks we drank that made from Absolut.

Have a wonderful day to y'all....

Beautiful Flowers

2008-10-31T08:09:00.000-07:00

These photos were taken last April of this year in Amsterdam. I LOVE flowers.....I even have my own garden flowers inside and outside my house. I collected orchids, roses, dahlias and tulips.

More Pix from Stockholm

2008-10-30T06:05:00.000-07:00

With Stadsholmen, the islands of Riddarholmen. Helgeandsholmen and Stromsborg make up the Town between the Bridges. Helgeandsholmen, or Island of the Holy Ghost, is the seat of the House of Parliament. Riddarholmen, Island of Knights, contains Riddarholmskyrkan, which has been the royal memorial church since the 17th century. The tombs of most Swedish kings are inside.
Across North Bridge from Stadsholmen is Norrmalm, Stockholm's commercial center. The 18th -century Foreign Office and the Royal Opera are adjacent to Gustav Adolfs Torg, or Gustavus Adolphus Square. The opera opened in 1898. The nearby Hallwyl Museum is a mansion furnished with paintings, sculptures and ceramics. To the west is the Central Railway Station, which houses the Railway Museum, and Klara Kyrka, a 16th-century convent where Michael Bellman and several other noted are interred.

Have A Nice Day to y'all....

Amsterdam, Holland

2008-10-29T10:54:00.000-07:00

Amsterdam, Noord-Holland- 70 islands are separated by 50 miles of canals and connected by 1,000 bridges. Perhaps the best introduction to the city's charm is a canal cruise on one of the glass-topped boats that depart from the convenient downtown docks.

Amsterdam is a shopper's city as well. Antique shops along the Spiegelgracht and the Rokin proffer everything from porcelains to pewter. The Albert Cuyp Market, extending for blocks along Albert Cuyp Straat, is an open-air market offering food, clothing and many other items.

Amsterdam's flower market consists of flotilla of barges anchored along the Singel Canal that sell fresh, dried and silk flowers. The World Trade Center at 1 Strawinkskylaan is a modern shopping and business complex with boutiques, eateries and exhibit halls. Kalverstraat and Leidsestraat also are popular shopping areas. Small shops along the canals and in the Jordaan area are well worth exploring.

Rhine River

2008-10-28T10:41:00.000-07:00

River excursions can be made through the vineyard country to the west of Frankfurt. From nearby Mainz on the River Rhine, a trip winds south into more vineyard country and eventually leads to the Swiss border. However, the most popular river tour might be of the northwest stretch of the River Rhine between Mainz and Rudesheim, where the river forms a deep gorge between medieval castles. This portion of the Rhine area is named Rheingau and is famous for its Riesling wine.

Have A Nice Day to y'all.......

Frankfurt, Germany

2008-10-27T10:19:00.000-07:00

Frankfurt Am Main (Hessen)- positioned centrally within Europe, has become an international trade fair and financial city. It boasts Europe's second largest airport and largest railway station.

Seasonal visitors are attracted to the many special events in Frankfurt; among them are the annual Motor Show, 2 commercial fairs and the Buchmesse, or Book Fair, which draws international publishers every fall. Those interested in sampling traditional German food and apple wine should explore Sachsenhausen, an area with many restaurants and cider taverns.

The city also owns the largest community-owned forest in Germany. The Stadtwald, with its innumerable paths and trails, is a popular recreation area. The Waldlehrpafad is a trail that passes many old and rare trees, each of which is identified and described on small signs. The old Goetheturm (Goethe Tower) near Sachsenhausen affords a wonderful view of Frankfurt and the Taunus Mountains. These nearby mountains also can be visited on half-day and full-day tours, and are noted for their scenery and spas.

Have A Nice Day to y'all..........

Kaiserlautern Fest

2008-10-26T17:27:00.000-07:00

These photos were taken last weekend at Kaiserlautern fest. My daughter and her friend rode all the rides except the Extreme, Shake and the Vortex. We had a good time. We were at the Ferris wheel while I'm taking these photos.

Have A Great Day to y'all.....

Expensive Dinner

2008-10-25T16:39:00.000-07:00

This is the place where we ate our dinner in the center of Stockholm, Sweden. The name of the restaurant is Stockholm Fisk. It was nice presentation and good food except it was a bit expensive. We can still afford it but compare to regular restaurant, it is the most expensive restaurant we've been to.

This was the meal I ordered, forgot the name but it has salmon, mussels and curry sauce.

This was for my husband, I also don't know the name of it but this was their special meal for that night we were there. Salmon and pasta with boiled potato and lemon.

This was my daughters', fried herring with mashed potato. I remember because I ended up eating it. My daughter couldn't eat it because it has fish bones and my first time I've seen fatty fish. I loved the mashed potato though...

Salmon is the specialty in Sweden. At least next time we go back in Stockholm, we know that we won't order that meal again.

Have A Nice weekend to y'all.........

Hohenfels, Germany

2008-10-24T07:00:00.000-07:00

Hohenfels- is a small and quiet town in Germany that located in Bavaria area. It was our 1st station in Germany. We lived in Sonnenstrasse about 10 minutes walk to US base (where my husband worked as OC-Observer Controller) or less than 5 minutes drive. There is no traffic light in Hohenfels, that's how you can tell it's a small town. Metzgarei (meat store), Backerie (bakery), old and ruined castle, beautiful church and few small stores you can see or what Hohenfels have. Driving car is the convenient and fast way to go to big city like Regensburg. Neumarkt or Nurmburg. The closest and next town to Hohenfels is Parsberg. Parsberg is a little bit bigger than Hohenfels. They have Mobel Hof a furniture store, Kik a dollar store and Netto or Aldi like Wal-mart or HEB store. You won't get bored if you go places besides Hohenfels. Bavaria area has lots of places to offer. Down south, you can go to Munchen or Munich where they celebrate the Octoberfest every year to experience the beer-drinking. Between Hohenfels and Munich is the Regensburg. Regensburg has a number of attractions, including 12th-century Schottenkirche St. Jakob, Gothic St. Emmeramkirche and Romanesque St-Kassian-Kirche. And also Steinerne Brucke, a 12th-century stone bridge. We have been in different town or city in Bavaria and you'll love your stay if you explore it more! I missed my friends that still there and I have been talking with them up to now. I also missed the snows since in Ramstein area doesn't snow that much.

Trier, Germany

2008-10-23T06:12:00.000-07:00

Trier, Rheinland-Pfalz- remnants of the past in Trier give an almost continuous account of European history. Among the traces of Roman civilization are a bridge across the River Mosel, three bathing establisishments, the basilica, an amphitheater and the Posta Niagra, a massive city gate. Medieval buildings still surviving include the Romanesque cathedral, the Basilica of St. Matthias and the baroque St. Paulinuskirche.

In addition to the wealth of preserved architecture, Trier is capital of the Mosel region, and as such a center of the wine trade. Visitors arrive annually for the August wine festival.

Brussel, Belgium

2008-10-22T12:19:00.000-07:00

Cathedrale St-Mitchel--Place Sainte-Gudule, begun in 1226, illustrates every facet of Brabantine Gothic architecture. Its treasures include 16th-century stained-glass windows, interesting monuments and a baroque pulpit.

Wurzburg, Germany

2008-10-21T13:42:00.000-07:00

Wurzburg Bayern- St. Boniface established a bishopric in the 8th-century, changing this Roman outpost on the River Main into an important ecclesiastical center. Over the centuries, Wurzburg was host to several imperial diets, and in the 16th centuries it joined the ranks of Germany's university cities. Today the city is an industrial and wine headquarters that hosts a Mozart festival in June. It also is the northern terminus of the Romantische Strasse or Romantic Road, a scenic highway that extends to Fussen.

Wien or Vienna, Austria

2008-10-20T12:23:00.001-07:00

At the crossroads od Europe, Wien or Vienna, was for a thousand years the capital of the farflung Holy Roman and Habsburg empires.Today it is the capital of the Austrian Republic and serves as an international congress city. Though its people and ways have changed, Vienna has retained its imperial monuments, not as reminders of past glories, but as living symbols of its present freedom.

Japanischer Garten in Kaiserlautern, Germany

2008-10-19T12:22:00.000-07:00

Japanischer Garten with my good friend Ruby!

Our photos taken last year in Kaiserlautern at Japanisher Garten or Japan's garden... Behind us is the house for foot massages after walking.

Have A Nice Day to y'all.......

Beautiful Stockholm City

2008-10-18T01:17:00.000-07:00

Stockholm is the capital of Scandinavia. There are many reasons why Stockholm is the natural Capital of Scandinavia. One is that Stockholm is positioned at the heart of the region, and enjoys the benefits of a world-class transport infrastructure. Another is that Stockholm is the largest city in the largest country in Scandinavia. It is also where you find the most multinational companies, the largest stock market and, not least, the most visitors. People come to Stockholm for the food, the design and the music. Stockholm also offers a unique range of galleries and museums, and every year the eyes of the world are on Stockholm when the Nobel Prizes are awarded.

Nordic Sea Hotel

2008-10-17T02:15:00.001-07:00

Nordic Sea Hotel is located right next to the Central Station, City Terminal and Arlanda Express. It's also close to shopping and restaurants. It is the most expensive hotel we've ever been but it's worth it because people were nice, friendly, helpful and most of all, they spoke English. They have a lot to offer: free breakfast that has more choices. They're also have free internet when you need it. Nice room as you can see? They have Massage and Chiropractic Treatments that we have not try because not enough time. Regular bar for those who likes to drink and relax in normal temperature unlike the first permanent icebar-Absolut Icebar Stockholm, the temperature is below zero. We really have a good time staying in Nordic Sea Hotel.

Have A Nice Weekend everyone........

Skavsta Airport

2008-10-16T05:44:00.000-07:00

Skavsta airport is a small domestic terminal airlines. Most surrounds by hotels like we stayed in at Connect hotel. Next town is Nykoping is a capital of Sodermanland province and on the Nykoping River, industrial. Nykoping also is a center for trips to lakes Ungaren, Langhalsen and Baven. Several manor houses are in the vicinity. Nykoping Castle, mostly in ruins, is of interests.

Have A Nice Day to y'all......

Connect Hotel

2008-10-15T07:21:00.000-07:00

Hello everybody...this is our first hotel we stayed in next to the Ryanair Airport. We stayed there for 1 night before we went to the city of Stockholm. The price was not bad for quick sleep and free breakfast. People were courteous and they spoke English (it's a good thing!!!). It's convinient because it's not far from the Airport terminal, 5 minutes walk or less. We really enjoyed our stay....

Have A Nice Day to y'all....

More Pics from Stockholm

2008-10-14T12:42:00.000-07:00

These photos were in central Stockholm. Many things to do or see, they have lots of restaurants from fancy and sophisticated or just regular burger house. The famous and largest Sweden’s shopping malls are Ahlens City, Varuhus and Gallerior and Galleria. At Ahlens City, you’ll find everything you like in one place. Drop in for great international and Swedish fashion, beauty and home wear buys. Or for the latest music, books and films. They have H & M stores every corner in Stockholm. The Sightseeing Bus will take you anywhere in central Stockholm to view well-known places like Museums, Royal Palace, City Hall and more… It’s beautiful place or city and wonderful views or sights.

Have A Nice Day to y’all……

Stockholm, Sweden

2008-10-13T14:44:00.000-07:00

Stockholm is the most beautiful city I’ve ever been in Europe so far. There are lots things to see or do. They have big Malls, fancy and regular Restaurants, Museums, Galleries, Recreations and Events. We loved it!!!

Innsbruck, Austria

2008-10-07T13:37:00.000-07:00

These photos were taken at famous Swarovski Crystal in Innsbruck, Austria. The man’s eyes and nose were made of Swarovski crystal. Inside, many different kinds of creations from animals to jewelry, collections or not, they are pretty…made of crystals. Some people are crazy about crystal especially with the name brand like Swarovski. They are not just crazy about it but they are collecting them and I’m one of them (he he...). I started to collect crystals since I got here in Germany. They are expensive but pretty nice!

Have A Nice Day to y'all.....

Wiesbaden, Germany

2008-10-05T15:13:00.000-07:00

These are our photos from Wiesbaden, Germany. Beautiful day in Stadttmitte (City) Wiesbaden and nice to walk! We took some pictures of the church and the fountain. I like to go back there to shop because we didn't have that much time when we were there, plus I didn't bring any Euros. Hope you enjoyed your weekend coz we did!

Wiesbaden, with its theaters, orchestras and a ballet company, is host to the International Festival of Music and Drama in May. Scenic tours of the River Rhine are also available.

Have A Nice Day to y'all....

Garmish, Germany

2008-10-02T12:42:00.000-07:00

Garmish, Germany is one of our favorite place to go to. Beautiful views and nature. You could do a lot of things. Camping for summer; skiing in winter; travelling in different town and our favorite thing to do is just relax...In Edelweiss Lodge, they have restaurants, swimming pool (with saunas), games for adults and children, small gym, and spas. We never get bored that's why we always go to that place many times! We loved it....

Have A Nice Day to y'all....

Koln or Cologne, Germany

2008-10-01T13:04:00.000-07:00

The first photo was the Romisch-Germanisches Museum, portrays early Roman life along the River Rhine. The extensive glassware and earthenware collections from the first to fifth centuries are augmented by the Tomb of Poblicius and the Dionysus Mosaic. The mosaic is surprisingly vivid.
The second photo was the DOM (Koln Cathedral) is one of the largest Gothic structures in the world. Its foundation dates from 1248, but the edifice was not complete until 1880. The first monumental crucifix in Northern Europe, created before 1000, and the Golden Shrine of the Three Magi are of special interest.

Have A Nice Day to y'all.....

Hofbrauhaus, Munich

2008-09-29T16:03:00.000-07:00

Last June of this year, my family with my cousin and his in-laws, we went to the famous Hofbrauhaus in Munich, Germany. Too many people were there. Some are from Russia, Americans and locals. It was our first time and we had a good time. It was fun because people were singing, they even have live music band. We don't understand the words they're singing but the music was pleasant to our ears. Food is okay but service was a litlle bit slow, maybe because few waitress serving and they are a bit old and too many people. Hope you like it...

Have A Nice Day to y'all......

Salt Mine

2008-09-29T14:53:00.000-07:00

I’m sharing to you our old photos that took place in Salt Mine Berchtesgaden, Germany. In Salt Mine, they have dressed clothes (shown what we worn) before you go inside the mines. Long train rides about 600meters while seating into a “Kaiser Franz Sinkwerk”. A funicular also known as funicular railways, a raft and down slides (slides are fun! whee…) and on photo shown, the wall is made of salt. One kid tried to lick the wall and for his surprised or shocked, it was salt! That’s why they call it Salt Mine…

Have A Nice Day to y’all….

Garmish, Germany (Zugspitze)

2008-09-25T12:20:00.000-07:00

These photos I love to stared at! What a beautiful mountain with snows. On top of this mountain is where Zugspitze located at and it has Resort. This is where people skiing from beginner to expert. Not only skiing you can do on top of the mountain, also paragliding. Cable cart and train are the transportations they use to get there. We always go to the Garmish, Germany but we haven’t tried to go to the top of the mountain in Zugspitze. Because I have acrophobia (afraid of heights) and I don’t know how to ski. Just taking pictures and looking at it, that’s all I can do. One day, hopefully I will reach that mountain (cross my finger) and I will take a lot of pictures for proof (he he…)

Have A Nice Day to y’all…..

Amberg, Germany

2008-09-24T10:50:00.000-07:00

These photos were taken at Amberg, Germany in Bavaria area. We walked around and shopped in my favorite store Orsay. We didn't stay long because we went to Graf after shopping. Hope you like the pictures???

Have A Nice Day to y'all.....

Rothenburg, Germany

2008-09-23T16:53:00.000-07:00

This photo was unforgettable experience for me. Because it was our first time to visit the area and I got sick before we got to the place. I’ve been vomiting and I have terrible headache. When it was time to leave Rothenburg, I felt a little bit better. I didn’t enjoy our visits there because of my illness and we didn’t have a chance to see all the places. Rothenberg is the place for shopping for Christmas. You can see all kinds or types of different things to see, from alcohol to stuff toys, or just to buy for souvenirs. We are planning to see again last summer but no time because everyone is busy for their own vacations. I want to go back in Rothenberg before we go back home in Texas. I know I will….

Have A Nice Day to y'all.....

Ramstein fest

2008-09-22T01:59:00.000-07:00

These photos were taken last Sunday (Sept.20). In Ramstein village, there is fest going on and we live in this area. The fest started last Saturday and it ended today (Sept. 23). There are some few rides and some food booths. It’s not much people went there because they have no idea that there is event going on in Ramstein. We found it the day we went there and by reading it in our KA newspaper. It was late already and we didn’t spend long time there because it’s school day the next day. We just ate my daughter’s favorite “crepes” and “bratwurst” (the German foods.) After we ate, we looked around then we went home.
It wasn’t that bad!

Have a Nice Day to y’all……

Berchtesgaden, Germnay

2008-09-20T06:32:00.000-07:00

Here's our old picture from Eagle's Nest in Berchtesgaden, Germany. It was awesome views!!!

History: Hitler's "Eagle's Nest" was designed and built for Adolf Hilter's 50th Birthday by his personal secretary and Head of the Nazi Party Chancellery Martin Bormann. The monument is called "Kehlsteinhaus" in German because of it was originally intended to be a "Teahouse" for the head of the Third Reich. This mountain-top hideaway played a prominent role as the main unit objective in HBO's critically acclaimed mini-series "Band of Brothers."

The allied bombing and battles of World War II left the building intact and today the Eagle's Nest remains in its original state. In the years after the war, the Eagle's Nest and the surrounding area of Berchtesgaden remained a part of US Armed Forces property in southeastern Germany. The US military set up a recreation center where servicemembers could hike in the summer and ski in the winter. The US military returned the area to Germany in the 1990s.At that time, the German government demolished the American General Walker Hotel at Obersalzberg, to make way for the existing bus depot that serves the Eagle's Nest.

Thanks for the info from www.letsgo-europe.com/Germany/eagles_nest/. Hope you enjoy it...

Have A Nice Day to y'all....

Venice, Italy

2008-09-18T17:12:00.000-07:00

Venice is a nice place for shopping with name brand like Louis Vuitton, Versace, Coach and more. The "Grand Canals" is the most important canal in Venice, Italy. The Public transportaion is provided by water buses or private taxis but many tourists visit it by gondolas. The St Mark's Basilica or they call it Basilica di San Marco in Italian is the most famous of the many churches of Venice and one of the best examples of Byzantine architecture in the world.
Located just off the Grand Canal, the gleaming basilica dominates Piazza San Marco (St. Mark's Square) and adjoins the Doge's Palace. San Marco is a cathedral has been the seat of the Archbishop of Venice since 1807. They have lots of souvenirs to buy. Many restaurants to go to for eat, relax, or just to talk. Taking pictures what I love to do.

Have A Nice Day to y'all....

Wurzburg, Germany

2008-09-17T12:17:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures that taken in Wurzburg, Germany with my friend.

Wurzburg Germany is the capital of Lower Franconia. One of the loveliest baroque cities in the country and became famous as the center of Franconian wine production. Many tourists heading for the Romantic Road from here, 25,000 students enjoy the lively atmosphere of that town, which is beautifully embedded in the valley of the Main River, surrounded by wine-covered hills.

A famous landmark of Wurzburg Germany is the mighty fortress Festung Marienberg, from where you get a nice view over the famous sights of Wurzburg and the pilgrimage church Käppele, also an idyllic spot on a hill above the town of Wurzburg Germany. You can explored on by foot - look at the Wurzburg market square and see the late-Gothic Church of St. Mary Another highlight is the four towered Wurzburg Cathedral St.Kilian, which is one of the largest Romanesque churches in Germany and one of the great attractions of Wurzburg in Germany.
They have different kinds of festivals they’re celebrating. Like the Wurzburg wine festival that’s been going on throughout the years. They also have Mozart Festival, Bach Festival and the Europe’s largest African Cultural Festival and Jazz Festivals. If you are wine lovers...The Juliusspital is the third-largest wine estate in Germany for wine tasting. It has 250 meters of vaulted cellars.

Have A Nice Day to y'all....

Belgium

2008-09-16T13:33:00.000-07:00

Brussels is geographically in Flanders, 70%speaks French and only 10% speaks Flemish. 20% of the population speaks non-native languages as their mother-tongue. English is their 3rd language. Most people live in Brussels are non nationals like French, Italian and Moroccan.

The heart of Brussels and the place to start getting to know the city is the Grand'Place (Grote Markt). This historic market square with its splendid guild houses and the impressive Gothic beauty of the Town Hall, is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful town squares in Europe.

Have A Nice Day to y'all...

Bad Durkheim, Germany

2008-09-15T08:52:00.001-07:00

Hi! Everyone…I was sooo exhausted last Saturday and Sunday because we went to the wine fest. The fest started last Friday thru the 16th of September in Bad Durkheim. Germany. It was raining when we got there but later afternoon, the rain stops! They have carnival rides for kids and adults. We even rode one of their rides but the rests are scary for me to ride because I am afraid of heights! They also have different food booths and we tried their delicious bratwurst (the best sausage I’ve ever ate!). Lots of games and we won few stuff toys for my daughter. And of course, the WINES!!! You can see all kinds of wines in Bad Durkheim. Americans love to visit Bad Durkheim because of their finest and affordable wine. They said that the wine fest was the biggest and longest fest here in Germany. I think there’s a celebrity host that visited the fest because people were so excited and there’s some polizei (police). We haven’t had a chance to see that celebrity because it was too crowded. Plus, even if we see that person, we wouldn’t know who it was coz it’s a German celebrity. Guess what??? Not a single of them was screaming but they were excited to take pictures and videos. We had a great and wonderful weekend!!! How about you???

Have A Nice Day….

Carnival rides

2008-09-15T08:40:00.000-07:00

Here are some rides that I’m afraid to ride it. I don’t know what do you call of this ride… does anyone knows????

Have A Nice Day...

2008-09-15T08:37:00.000-07:00

Here's some more rides...

2008-09-15T08:01:00.000-07:00

More rides....

Belgium

2008-09-12T10:41:00.000-07:00

Brussels is the capital of Belgium and the administrative centre of the European Union. This has earned the city the title of the Capital of Europe. Brussels has been given its character by the coexistence of French and Flemish culture, and it is nowadays home to nationalities around the world, adding a cosmopolitan flavour to its atmosphere. The vibrant atmosphere of Brussels is further enhanced by picturesque medieval streets, lively squares, beautiful boulevards, impressive monuments, spacious parks, cosy cafés, interesting restaurants and an active cultural life.Thanks for the info from my favorite sites: www.brussels.org

Salzburg, Austria

2008-09-11T15:13:00.000-07:00

Dreaming spires, green hills and romantic gardens – the city's attractions are loved by millions of visitors from all over the World starving for Salzburg sightseeing. With a tourist-per-capita ratio higher than Venice or Florence, the city is among the busiest places of Europe all year round. This is also the place where the "sounds of music" located sung by Julie Andrews.
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born 27 January 1756 in Salzburg, Austria. He showed musical gifts at a very early age, composing when he was five and when he was six playing before the Bavarian elector and the Austrian empress. He's a God's given genius!

You "HAND" means you "Have A Nice Day"....

Yonina tulip

2008-09-10T13:30:00.000-07:00

This tulip is one of my favorite. It's Yonina tulip. Did you know what is Yonina means? It's a girl's name and "dove". I love this tulip because it's simple and beautiful. I don't have it yet because every time I go to the germans store, they always run out. I guess it's so popular, that they always run out all the time. If someone knows where to buy this kind of tulips, please help me??? I appreciated!

You "HAND" means you "Have A Nice Day"...

Flowers!!!

2008-09-10T12:48:00.000-07:00

This was taken just last April this year. It's a tulips season in Amsterdam, Holland! Do you like flowers? I do, I planted some tulips in our front yard and orchids inside my house. I even bought some roses to put it in our backyard. It's really nice to see the flowers bloom during spring or summer.

You "HAND" means you "Have A Nice Day"...

City of Vienna

2008-09-09T11:25:00.000-07:00

This the city of Vienna, Austria. What a beautiful views! It's really nice place to take a picture, or just to learn their culture and history! Very, very , very awesome sites....

Austria

2008-09-09T01:18:00.000-07:00

Here's some more photo from Vienna, Austria.

Vienna, Austria

2008-09-08T04:14:00.000-07:00

This photo was taken last 2003 in Vienna, Austria. Austria was the first country we visited in Europe and I got interested about their history. It was soooo beautiful country. I wish we could go back in Vienna before we go back in state of Texas. I recommended to everyone to see Austria because it's full of history and awesome views. We enjoy our staying here in Europe!!!

You "HAND" means you "Have A Nice Day"...

Eiffel Tower

2008-09-07T12:07:00.000-07:00

This is an old picture was taken last 2004. Like I promise, I will post some picture and this is one of them that we have been. 2nd floor in Eiffel Tower in Paris, France. It was windy and cold eventhough we went there in month of June. It's really romantic and I'm sure that if we are not yet married that day?? my husband will propose to me coz I almost propose to him, he he... This is the only place in Paris we enjoyed!!! Hope you enjoy it....

You "HAND" means you "Have A Nice Day"...

" My Destinations Getaway"

2008-09-06T14:14:00.001-07:00

I chose this title “My Destinations Getaway” because I would like to share my travelling experiences. We’ve been living here in Germany for more 5 years now. We enjoyed going in different cities and countries. We have been in Poland, Italy, France, Austria and many more but there are still some countries that we have not yet visit. I love travelling in different places especially when it comes to shopping…Next time, I will post some pictures that we have been. You "HAND" means "Have A Nice Day"!!!

Hi To Everyone..

2008-09-04T07:35:00.000-07:00

I am just new to the blogging world. I just got interested because of some friends who give me the push to do blogging..I guess I can express myself here..I welcome me here...hope you too!! have a great day!!