Things are not as good as they started. I still love being here, and I am still enjoying everything, but ya know, I'd be better if I had my wallet. That would be nice. I wasnt being stupid, and I wasnt being half fast, I got straight robbed, thats what happened. Now my I.D and locked credit cards are floating in a trash heap somewhere in Germany. Thanks Dude in the subway, you man.
The one day I couldnt lock my pack down, the one day we were in Cologne, and the one time I put my wallet in my front pocket. I always, always had my wallet locked down in my pack. Just one day and that was all it took. We had just transferred what we needed for our five day trip to Greece in our daypacks, had just left the airport for our place, and had just gotten off the last subway for the day when I found it missing. Just a few hours away from waking up at 3am to go to the airport. I mean, wow, just a blur now, but damn, everything went wrong and now...no means. Front pocket huh? that worked. Wish I would have caught him, that way I could justify the extry pound of Leatherman I have been carrying around...woulda put that to good use. Still got my camera though, and my passport. Could be worse. Looking on the bright side. Teetering, but still smiling.
Since last time, we have been traveling like crazy. From Cinque Terra we went to Rome, Venice, Vienna, Prague, Berlin, Cologne, and now Athens! The countryside has been beautiful as well as many of the cities. Places are far different than I imagined too. Athens is huge and a dump. They said Rome was dirty, but it isnt...at least not like here. Berlin was amazing, clean, big, and has an identity, though our place was sick. Even Cologne was nice, despite the one man that I have decided to hate. Venice, despite the big talk that you may hear, really isnt that sweet. Ok, its nice and all, and very unique, but not exactly what you picture. At least not what I pictured. It kind of seems like a hassle, that and it is super easy to get lost in there. No WC's anywhere either. Yeah, that's another thing. In europe, good luck finding a bathroom. It is just ridiculous, you almost need to plan your day around it. Not a laughing matter. Also, another thing that is deceiving...hostelworld.com. It is a lifesaver no doubt, but it is also full of deception. The last two places we have booked for a two beds have been only one (sleeping bags and floor). Also, whatever they say about themselves, especially directions, are probably half-truths or lies all together. It's like rolling the dice every time you book a place. You turn the key when you get there and just hold your breath. The place in Berlin, ha, yuck. Oh, the first place in Prague, I had to wrap the pillow with the pillowcase and both sheets just to think about using it. The comforter wasnt even an option. Wouldnt let a stray dog use it.
Johnny told me not to wipe up beer with it, but I told him it may be best...they may wash it if they found it wet. Maybe not.
There is this technique in Europe that everyone uses when walking down the street. So, instead of acknowledging anyone else in your way, you either look through the person coming, while still secretly looking at them, or you look away all together, keeping semi-focused with peripherals. That way you can pretend not to see anyone, and thus, not move for anything. Everyone does it. Everyone, even super old people. If they catch any sign that you see them...then you are moving for them. Like a mind game with every person. I've tried it and it works. All you have to do is just look away and you can walk in a straight line. Just dont acknowledge anyone else. Think only of yourself and you're fine. People are relentless.
Big cities. It's a chore. Like Dune. A big sand storm just wearing you down. Too many people. Way too many people. Athens is like 6 mil plus. No escape. Beautiful places to see. 3 months of straight travel is borderline too much. Should have gone to Lagos in the middle. Vacation within Vacation is a good idea.
Here are some more pictures. A little bit of everywhere the past week and a half or so.
This is Prague, a beautiful place.
We went to the Vatican while in Rome. It was unbelievable. So much to see. This is the center at sunset, with St. Peters Basilica in the background.
Here is a picture of inside St. Peters. This is Bernini's Canopy. It is immense and made of the original bronze from the Pantheon.
This is from inside a large Cathedral in Vienna. Though amazing, Nothing compares to St. Peters.
Typical Venice
A picture from inside the Pantheon. This place is also amazing. The size is overwhelming, and the fact that this dome has survived for as long as it has is truly remarkable.
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