As The New Year Unfolds 2021 Is Starting To Look A Lot Better Than 2020. We Loaded Up Our Bikes For The

As the new year unfolds 2021 is starting to look a lot better than 2020. We loaded up our bikes for the 1st time this year (with full entions of doing this on the regular) and headed down to beautiful Sarasota Florida to do the bayfront bike trail, we went off script a little bit and took a detour through downtown. What an amazing area Sarasota is, we absolutely fell in love with this quaint and charming little town, Who knew that this area had so much to offer, not only does it have the Ringling Museum, but also a timeless and magical waterfront community. We stopped for lunch, and we’re wowed by Duval’s Fresh restaurants amazing food (a must if you are in Sarasota). We look forward to having many more adventures in amazing areas like this. If you haven’t already sat out on an adventure for 2021, I encourage every single person to do so. Too long have we been cooped up in our homes, too long have we been listening to the rhetoric, let’s get out and do some thing, Go somewhere, live your life. And remember you are the master of your fate.

What can I say, 🤷🏼🤙🏻…..México

Eastern European Escapade Part 4

The car’s packed, the playlist is set, and our hearts are racing with anticipation. We’re continuing our adventure and heading to Austria! From the stunning Alpine landscapes to the rich cultural heritage, we’re ready to explore every corner and create unforgettable memories. Buckle up—this journey promises to be incredible! Can you tell I'm excited?

Who better to welcome us to Austria but Mozart.

Here’s a fun fact about Vienna: Vienna has a unique tradition known as “Wiener Schnitzel,” but did you know that it has been a part of Viennese culture for centuries? Rumor has it that the dish is believed to have originated in Vienna in the 19th century, but its roots go back even further. The traditional Wiener Schnitzel is made from veal, and its preparation and presentation have become a hallmark of Viennese cuisine. If you’re a fan of food, you have at least try an authentic Wiener Schnitzel in Vienna is a must!

Here's a fascinating fact: Empress Elisabeth of Austria (known as Sisi) and Marie Antoinette were indeed related. Sisi was Marie Antoinette’s grandniece. Sisi's mother, Duchess Ludovika of Bavaria, was the sister of Marie Antoinette's husband, Louis XVI. So, while they never met, these two iconic women from history shared a family connection through their royal bloodlines! Also, a Palace!

Belvedere Palace

Belvedere Palace in also like the Louvre is known for its stunning art collection, particularly its impressive array of Austrian art. The palace houses two main museums: the Upper Belvedere and the Lower Belvedere, both showcasing masterpieces from different periods.

Upper Belvedere:

Gustav Klimt: The Upper Belvedere is home to Klimt’s iconic "The Kiss" (1907-1908), one of the most famous works of the Art Nouveau movement. This masterpiece, with its intricate gold leaf and sensual portrayal, is a highlight of the collection.

Egon Schiele: You’ll also find works by Schiele, a protégé of Klimt, known for his raw and expressive style. His pieces often explore themes of human emotion and form.

Lower Belvedere:

Baroque Art: The Lower Belvedere features a collection of Baroque art and architecture. It includes works by artists like Johann Michael Rottmayr and the magnificent frescoes by Luca Giordano that decorate the palace’s ceilings.

Medieval and Renaissance Art: It also displays a range of medieval and Renaissance pieces, showcasing the evolution of art through the centuries.

The Belvedere Palace itself is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, designed by Johann Lukas von Hildebrandt. The stunning gardens and the palace's design complement the exceptional art collections housed within.

In the heart of Austria lies Salzburg, a city where history and melody intertwine seamlessly. Nestled between rolling hills and the majestic Alps, Salzburg is famously known as the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Its baroque architecture and charming streets feel like a living museum, taking visitors back to a bygone era.

But Salzburg’s fame extends beyond its classical roots. In the early 1960s, this picturesque city became the backdrop for one of cinema’s most beloved musicals, The Sound of Music. The film’s enchanting scenes, from the hills alive with the sound of music to the picturesque Mirabell Gardens, were shot here, capturing the city's serene beauty and adding a touch of Hollywood magic to its historic charm.

Visitors today can follow the footsteps of Maria and the von Trapp family, exploring iconic filming locations such as the Nonnberg Abbey and the stunning Leopoldskron Palace. As you wander through Salzburg’s cobblestone streets and lush gardens, you can’t help but feel a sense of timeless wonder, where music and history harmoniously blend into an unforgettable experience.

I’m so obsessed with Polar Bears, that I will visit Norway just because s/he loves it. I mean totally legit reason 🤷🏼

Rainbow River, Dunnellon FL. What a way to close out summer then a trip down this amazingly beautiful river with amazing friends and family. Note to self though, one needs to get a waterproof bag, and remember to at least put one’s phone away. Tragedy struck half way down the river when a perfectly good barely used IPhone 14 sunk to the bottom of river. 🤷🏼

Eastern European Escapade Part 3

Back in the car, and on our way to another country, as we get ready for an unforgettable adventure we are back on the road for our continuation of our trip. We are saying goodbye to Hungary and preparing to make our way to Slovakia! Our journey will hopefully take us through picturesque landscapes, and charming towns. We leave now from the bustling streets of Budapest to the historic sites of Bratislava, each mile promises new discoveries and unforgettable experiences. Buckle up and let’s explore the beauty and history of Central Europe together!

As we wondered the streets on this very wet, cold, and windy day in Bratislava, we strolled past St. Michaels Gate and decided that we needed to have a bite to eat. We came across Kola Kamzik, and holy cow it did not disappoint!

As we walked, we got closer and closer to the smells of the restaurants, and when we saw Kola Kamzik we knew this was the place.

When the food arrived at the table I knew I was about to have an incredible dining experience at Kola Kamzik in Bratislava! The food was absolutely fantastic, with each dish beautifully crafted and bursting with flavor. The blend of traditional and modern elements in their menu was impressive, and the presentation was top-notch. If you’re ever in Bratislava, don’t miss out on this restaurant – it's a culinary fusion that you won't forget! I certainly won't anytime soon!

Wondering around in Bratislava, taking it all in, and I must say, it exceeded all my expectations! Nestled along the banks of the Danube River, this charming city has rich history with vibrant modern culture. From the stunning Bratislava Castle overlooking the city to the delightful streets of the Old Town filled with cozy cafés and colorful buildings, there's so much to explore. The local cuisine (can't say enough about Kola Kamzik), the warm and welcoming people, and the city's relaxed vibe made it an unforgettable experience. If you ever get the chance to visit, don’t miss out on Bratislava and see for yourself what it has to offer—it's truly a pleasant surprise!

Bratislava Castle has a history that stretches back over a millennium. Originally built in the 9th century, it was strategically positioned on a hill overlooking the Danube River. The castle served as a key fortification and royal residence throughout various periods.

During the Middle Ages, it was an important center of trade and politics. In the 16th century, when the Hungarian kingdom’s capital moved from Buda to Vienna, Bratislava became the new capital, and the castle was renovated to reflect its prominent status.

In the 18th century, the castle fell into disrepair, but in the 20th century, it underwent significant restoration. Today, it stands as a symbol of Bratislava's rich heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into its storied past through its preserved architecture and museum exhibits.