Cyril and Methodius

We’re in Bulgaria, the first place I’ve been where Cyrillic script is used extensively. It looked so strange to me, like something out of a Tolkien book. I wanted to know more. It turns out that two brothers, Cyril and Methodius, invented it to solve a tough problem. Here’s the story… Continue reading “Cyril and Methodius”

It’s All Cyrillic to Me

Our cruise down the Danube has taken us all the way to Bulgaria – someplace I never thought I’d visit. The forested Bulgarian landscape was nice, but the thing I’ll remember most about Bulgaria is the pervasive use of Cyrillic script. Continue reading “It’s All Cyrillic to Me”

Budapest – Just Scratching the Surface

Yesterday we were in Slovakia.  Today, Hungary. That’s how it goes when you’re cruisin’ down the Danube. Budapest, with its massive parliament building dominating the view, is an impressive destination when arriving by boat. Continue reading “Budapest – Just Scratching the Surface”

Beautiful Downtown Bratislava

The first stop on our Danube river cruise is Bratislava, Slovakia. We disembarked here this morning, hopped on a big tour bus, and toured Bratislava Castle. Now we’re headed back down Castle Hill, on our way to see beautiful downtown Bratislava. Continue reading “Beautiful Downtown Bratislava”

The Life and Rebirth of Bratislava Castle

If castles could talk, Bratislava Castle would have a few tales to tell. Our enthusiastic Slavic guide is telling us about the castle’s history. Here’s a condensed version… Continue reading “The Life and Rebirth of Bratislava Castle”

Cruisin’ Down the Danube

Vienna was great, but it’s time to move on. We’re going to board a boat and go cruisin’ down the Danube river. We’ve done some river cruising before. It’s a nice way to travel. Maybe our favorite. C’mon. Let’s go! Continue reading “Cruisin’ Down the Danube”

Good-Bye Vienna!

We arrived in Vienna, Austria just three days ago, but I feel like I got a pretty good taste of what life is like here – figuratively and literally. And there are a LOT of good things to taste here. But it’s time for us to say good-bye to Vienna. Maybe after just one more piece of strudel. Continue reading “Good-Bye Vienna!”