Eastern European Escapade Part 4

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.

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.

I’m starting to like these SnapChat filters.

I’ve spent a lot, and I do mean A LOT of time inside during 2020. It was nice to get out today and go for a bike ride. 22.5 mile ride through the nature preserve was just what I needed. Together we have accomplished so much, together we have supported each other so much, quarantine has made us stronger, moving into an open country has made us dependent on each other, and together we are stronger.

Eastern European Escapade Part 1

Buckle up, fellow wanderlusters! Embarking on a 22-day European escapade – because who needs a short vacation, am I right? From savoring cevapi in Serbia to doing the Hungarian mouth-dance with paprika, this travel blog is your ticket to the quirky tales of my journey through Serbia, Hungary, Slovakia, Croatia, Slovenia, and Austria. Get ready for cultural confusion, scenic snapshots, and a questionable attempt at blending in. It's time to turn passport stamps into punchlines! Let the Euro-adventures begin!

GOLUBAC, SERBIA:

Serbia had never been on my radar as country to visit, and I am so grateful that unexpected circumstances took me there. There are a lot of false narratives that keep people from traveling to the country, but the truth is that Serbia has long intrigued travelers with its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. My recent trip to this Balkan country left me with a changed perspective by its vibrant cities, ancient fortresses, and, of course, delicious cuisine.

One of the highlights of my journey was a day trip to the awe-inspiring Golubac Fortress, nestled along the banks of the Danube River.

Golubac Fortress is a captivating slice of history perched on the banks of the Danube River in Serbia. This 14th-century stronghold, with its towering walls and breathtaking views, has witnessed centuries of battles and empires. Located just two hours from Belgrade, Golubac is a must-visit for history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. #GolubacFortress

The fortress boasts nine towers, each with its own unique story, and offers panoramic views of the river, making it easy to imagine the medieval battles that once took place here. The setting is peaceful today, a stark contrast to its turbulent past. Golubac is an unforgettable experience that transports you back in time.

#serbia

Pair your visit with a delicious local trout lunch, and you've got the perfect day trip from Serbia’s bustling capital.

If you’re visiting Golubac Fortress and looking for the perfect place to enjoy an authentic meal with an unforgettable view, Restoran Perast is an absolute must. Sits just along the banks of the Danube, this charming restaurant offers not only stunning riverside scenery but also a dining experience that truly captures the essence of Serbian cuisine.

From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with warm hospitality and a relaxing atmosphere. Even from inside you could enjoy its panoramic view of the Danube, it created the perfect backdrop for an enjoyable meal after exploring the nearby fortress.

The highlight of our meal was the freshly grilled trout, caught straight from the Danube. It was perfectly cooked—crispy on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside. Accompanied by simple but delicious sides of local potatoes and and of course I ordered Fries, the dish was a perfect reflection of the region’s culinary traditions.

What truly sets Restoran Perast apart is the attention to detail, both in the food and the service. The staff were attentive and friendly, making sure we had everything we needed to make the meal memorable. The peaceful ambiance, combined with the excellent food and river views, sucks you right into having a local feel.

Avala Tower and the Monument to the Unknown Hero are two iconic spots just outside Belgrade, Serbia. Avala Tower, standing at 204 meters, gives you amazing views of the city and beyond. It was originally built in the 60s, destroyed in 1999, but rebuilt and reopened in 2010.

Not far from the tower is the Monument to the Unknown Hero, a massive stone tribute to the Serbian soldiers who died in World War I. It's a place of quiet reflection, honoring those whose names were never known. Both sites are must-visits for their history and great views!

BELGRADE, SERBIA

Exploring the vibrant vibes of Republic Square in Belgrade! From the impressive National Museum to the charming cafes lining the streets, it's a hub of activity and history. Stroll through Knez Mihailova Street, soak in the atmosphere, and maybe even dodge a pigeon or two. This spot captures the essence of Belgrade's lively spirit.

#rebublicsquare

#thetempleofsaintsava

If you have some time, Delve into the historical narrative of Belgrade's Temple of Saint Sava! This architectural saga unfolded over decades, with construction commencing in the 1930s and culminating in 2004. Honoring Saint Sava, the founder of the Serbian Orthodox Church, the temple seamlessly blends Byzantine and Serbian medieval influences. Immerse yourself in the interior adorned with intricate frescoes, each telling a chapter of spiritual and cultural significance. A journey into the depths of history awaits within the walls of this iconic structure.

Finally we’ve managed to get the tree decorated (and by we I mean the better half of this equation). Fire’s lit, tree decorated, Christmas paraphernalia thrown about the house like a rampage of meddilsome elf’s were sent to spread the holiday cheer, and ready for Santa to make his debut on the wickedly anticipated December 25th.

Now, some of us are constantly running late with holiday shopping, not all of us are as genetically proned to making spectacularly amazing non-procrastinating holiday shopping a priority. However, this year I am happy to report that not only is 70% of my gift shopping complete, but Christmas cards have been mailed!

Now that I sit back and reflect on this, I will have to say, damn 2020 may have been a complete wrech of a year, the whole damn slag of it, but right now I’m feeling a bit in the relived at the moment with the end of things in sight I’m quite content I do believe. 2020 is almost to a close, and it did not defeat me, so take it to the limit shall we!

Cheers!