8/14/09
8/13/09
8/11/09
Berlin
In 1963 President Kennedy visited the Gate
In 1987, President Reagan demanded that President Gorbachev tear down this Wall
The Fall in 1989
The Berliner Dome
This is where many Berliners call home
It is located adjacent to Lust Garden
A sanctuary for arts and science, that's why Berliners call this Museum Island.
I'm standing in Pottsdam Platz, embracing the Berlin Wall
For 30 years, the wall stood impenetrable, so long, so tall
The wounds inflicted here were so painful, so deep
Scars that will never go away, memories that we will always keep
* Between 1949 and 1961, nearly 2.5 million East Germans left to start new lives in the West.
For 30 years, the wall stood impenetrable, so long, so tall
The wounds inflicted here were so painful, so deep
Scars that will never go away, memories that we will always keep
* Between 1949 and 1961, nearly 2.5 million East Germans left to start new lives in the West.
Here we are in the center of history for Prussia and Germany, the Brandenburg Gate
Sitting on top of the Wall is the Quadriga, a symbol of triumph of peace not war and hate
In 1987, President Reagan ordered Gorbachev to "Tear down the Wall."
Two years later, citizens from both the east and west passed through, the beginning of a reunited Germany and democracy for all.
The Jewish Memorial
Alexanderplatz
On 4 November 1989, the largest demonstration in Germany
They wanted democracy now
They made it perfectly clear
8/10/09
Berlin and Thoughts
Just made it into Berlin: City of Arts and Culture.
Hostel Rating:
Staying at the Generator Hostel. Not bad, but it was very noisy, and the rooms were quite ordinary.. The breakfast was sufficient (not tasty but filling). Biggest draw: Located next to the Tube. The biggest downside: The WiFi was very slow and expensive.
I've been up for nearly 40 hours straight, and believe it or not, I'm ready to hit the town.
During the marathon-long hours on the Deutsche Bahn, reflecting on my life, I thought about how as a young boy from 4 to 8, I traveled extensively throughout southeast Asia.
No, it wasn't the same conditions, but it was the same life applications.
Born in Hong Kong, my family and I traveled on a sailboat throughout several exotic ports of call in pristine places like Hong Kong, Singapore, Philippines, Thailand, Malaysia. I have personally seen world markets and capitalism operate hand and foot from street vendors and hawkers in open-air markets caught in a rut and living day-by-day, hoping to make enough to bring home food for the family of four.
When I was 12-years old, my family and I immigrated to the US. I was shocked and unadjusted when we settled in a small town in Southeast Georgia.
Since then we have become US citizens and upon graduation from high school, I decided I needed to return to traveling around the world.
I joined the Navy when I was 17, fresh out of high school and risen from the far, hidden reaches of a small, country town named Darien, GA., where the biggest industry was shrimping and crabbing and even that was dying away. I wanted to join the Navy because it was my way out and also because after being raised on the sea and living on a 40-foot yawl for most of childhood existence, I was naturally drawn to it and its calm solitude.
That's when I joined the Navy, and now I am on the cusp of retirement.
Within a month, I would be an MBA student at George Washington University.
Running in Prague "The Golden City"
In historic Old Town. To walk through Prague it to be a witness to many social and cultural changes in Europe.
Running in front of the National Museum (famous for its display of architecture, anthropology, natural history and mineralogy)
Elegant Liberty-style sculpture in the center of Old Town
On Charles Bridge, with the Prague Castle in the background (This world famous bridge has 30 statues ranging from the Cruxificion to Madonna and of course the renowned St. John Nepomuk)
The locals (and tourists) believe that touching a particular point on this statue (over John Nepomuk's being thrown in the River) is supposed to bring good luck. I hope this translates to good luck in schoolI've definitely enjoyed the interesting, collegial experience of staying at Prague Plus Hostel. The amenities are surprisingly FANTASTIC with a sauna and pool, open both in the morning and evening. The water was iceberg cold, but still I was very happy to get a chance to take a dip.
The club house, bar and restaurant are fancily decorated and well equipped with plasma screen displays, pool table, and loud music (ear-jarring loud, but the atmosphere was fun and festive).
The food is actually quite tasty. I enjoyed a nice, warm authentic Czech dinner with roast pork smothered rich with tomato sauce. Later that evening, when the munchies got the best of me, I enjoyed bruschetta bread, with heap of tomatoes, mozarella cheese and basil.
There were lots of college students, I mean tons from all continents -- Big difference than the Historia Hostel where the residents were a lot older (though, much younger than me, I'm sure).
They put me again in a eight-person dormitory bunk room (coed) with only one shower and one toilet.
The staff are also very hospitable and friendly. I was very impressed by the whole experience. The night crew even let me stay in the lounge all night long and use their WiFi while I waited for my 0630 train to Berlin (which I decided to skip so I could finish my YouTube video).
The WiFi is first rate -- fast, readily available in the lobby and restaurant and best of all free.
On the second day, I checked out a bicycle from Praha Bikes at the Prague Plus Hostel. I have to say that the quality of the bikes is quite shabby. I know, because I checked out two bikes that day. The first bike the chain would pop out and eventually completely came out of the derailer. I had to walk the bike (45 mins) back to the hostel and Praha Bikes charged me about 20 Euros for the damage, which I explained to them was not my fault. Still it fell on deaf ears.
Needless, to say, I still had time left on my rental, so I took out a second bike. This time, the bike was better, but still needed a tune up.
Still biking was a great idea, because it gave me a chance to see a lot of the sites from Old Town, Wenceslas Square, New Town, Charles Bridge, etc.
I was also able to get a good swim at the Hostel twice today, so I was able to squeeze in a three-sport training day in Prague -- first time during this trip. Running was long, but it was rigorous. Loving this city, and glad I'm able to continue training.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 8, 2009
Pristine Prague
Background: Since the fall of the Iron Curtain, Prague has become one of Europe's most popular tourist destinations. One reason is because Prague suffered less damage during WW II than most major cities in the region.
Prague has some of the most beautiful historic architecture true to form.
Wenceslas Square
Today, Wenceslas Square is a vibrant area of restaurants and shops
However, walking through this historic mall, we are in the locale of the most defining moments in Prague's history: the Nazi occupation, the communist takeover and the /*.
Laid out over 600 years ago, it was originally used as the Prague horse market
Over the years, the square has been a regular parade ground for all kinds of events and celebrations
At the top is the statue of St. Wenceslas on his horse cutting a striking figure
This is good King Wenceslas, a national hero, murdered over a thousand years ago by his brother.
In front of St. Wenceslas are two plaques in memory of those killed during the Communist era.
Prague was the seat of two holy Roman Emperors and thus was also the capital of the Holy Roman Empire City flourished during the 14th century reign of the King of Bohemia.
Charles Bridge
Beautiful Charles Bridge is the postcard of this great cityToday it looks just the same as it did in the 14th century.
In the center of the bridge is the St John of Nepomuk statue
You're supposed to touch it with your left hand, then make a wish, you almost have to.
Prague Castle
The Prague Castle stands atop the hills
The stones grow even stronger
For the castle's built on love and hope
Alone you are no longer
Old Town Square
Step into the Old Town Square and journey back in time, 700 years
As you stand in awe, the dramatic history of Prague permeates the air
Sit back and soak up the atmosphere
Dating back to the late 12th century, the Old Town Square
Jindrisska Tower
Jindrisska Tower dates from the late gothic era
Following a major fire in 1745, Jindrisska was rebuilt in the baroque style
At the top, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Prague's city center
Jindrisska is so peaceful, you might be up there for a while
Train to Vienna, then Onward to Prague
Kerepesi Train Station in Budapest -- only a 2o min walk from the hostel
I rushed to the train station from the Corvin Point Hostel to the Train station on time with a few minutes to spare. But the conductor would not let me board the train. Unfortunately I had not validated my Eurorail ticket and I would have to wait two hours for the next train.
No problem -- nothing like missing my train completely in Istanbul. After getting my ticket validated, I walked next door to the McDonalds where I could use their WiFi for free. Eating at McDonalds in Europe is a lot more upscale and fashionable than eating at Mickie D's in the states.
Lucky for me, the 1720 train leaving Budapest was a lot more modern with posh, leather seats and included a dining car.
I got into Vienna by 2030 and inquired about catching the 2212 train to Prague. Since this was a sleeper, I needed to make a reservation (which closes four hours before the train). The information desk recommended that I just show up and see if I can find a free seat.
Views of Vienna -- a beautiful, modern and very clean city
One more thing I tried was to walk next door to see if I could get a room at the Wombat Hostel -- unfortunately, they were fully booked. So I managed to get dinner while checking my email with the complementary WiFi.
Then I walked over to board my train. Since I did not have a reservation, the conductor informed me that she would charge me an additional 25 Euros during the trip. I agreed and boarded the train. 25 Euros seemed too high, but it seemed worth it to press on towards Prague.
The train, though tight, was fairly comfortable. The couches pulled down, and if you were lucky not to have someone sitting across from you, which I was, I was able to lay my feet up and catch a snooze.
The train stopped a few times, and I met several people on the way. Amazingly, the train arrived in Prague by 0400. Thankfully, my couch mate woke me up, otherwise, I would have slept right through and rode to Dresden.
The train station (Holosevic) was several metro stops from the main train station. When we arrived there, it was way too early, so I managed to catch some ZZZs on a wood bench. I was ok, until I decided to stretch out, in which case the metro security would wake me up and inform me that sleeping was not allowed. When daybreak arrived, I found my way outside the station and was happy to see a shady, grass hill where many backpackers were taking a nap. So I was happy to incline and resume my cat nap under a large, balmy oak tree while the sun peeked through the dancing leaves, its golden rays warming my weary face.
Scenes from the main train station in Prague (Note trains from Prague and Berlin do not stop here). Below you can see where I took a nap after a long, exhausting ride on the train.
After waking, I decided to head back inside the central station. I found a friendly tourist information desk. After asking if they were aware of any hostels that provided free WiFi, they recommended the Prague Plus Hostel near the Holosevic station -- exactly the train station that I arrived in at 0400 this morning.
I was happy to incline, and am currently enjoying a nice Czech dinner (roast pork with tomato sauce) while I type this blog. I am extremely weary and looking forward to tomorrow to explore the Golden City
8/8/09
Buda Pest Rap and Reflections
The Pest side of the Parliament Building (where I almost lost my viewvu camera)
Gorgeous sunset over the River Danube overlooking the Pest side (from the Intercontinental)
History
Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is a major cosmopolitan hub where Central Europe segue into the East. Just 20 years ago, the city and its two million people were clearly tied to the East when the Hungarian Communist Party held its reins.
Around the city, there are many vestiges of Lenins legacy. At the Hungarian Parliament building, the flag has a hole in it to commemorate how in 1956, the Hungarians revolted against the the Soviet Union.
The Hungarian Parliament Building is the seat of the National Assembly
Built to commemorate the 1000th anniversary of the nation of Hungary
Similar to the Palace of Westminster, it was built in the style of Gothic Revival
One of the most famous part of the building is the 16 sided central hall also known as the Hexadecagonal
Check out this beautiful city of Budapest, Hungary
What was once three separate cities became one in 1873
Budapest, Queen of the Danube River is a city of spas.
Everything is close together, nothing's too far.
Danube River
The River Danube is the longest in the EU
Originating from the Black Forests of Germany
It Passes through Central and Eastern Europe stretching out its arms like one big family
Before it empties its precious commodity into the majestic Black Sea
Buda Castle
Buda Castle is the historical home for many Hungarian Kings.
Built in the 14 century it has survived a few losses and many more wins
Buda Castle was the last major strongpoint of the united city
During the siege in 1945 it was held by the Axis
After the war, grand scale reconstruction took place
Now rebuilt a symbol of peace, it has changed the city landscape.
Buda Castle at night
My Goals and Refections While Running Buda Pest:
I do not want to be under bondage formulating my words to express a particular view.
I want to be able to express my opinions and develop my viewpoints based on how I see and view things.
I want to delve into and think critically about life-impacting issues that affect America and the global community.
I want to see results and listen to constructive criticism -- this is how we learn; this is how I'll grow.
8/5/09
Istanbul and the Orient Express
Missed My Train, then a 36-Hour Train Ride on the Orient (Dusty) Express
I couldn't believe what happened. I showed up to the train station (Serkeci) on time, with a huge amount of satisfaction, or so I thought. Actually I showed up with 45 mins to spare. But when I looked for my train, it wasn't there, not even a friendly backpacker from Australia or Denmark.
Oh no! The train had departed 15 minutes ago. My ticket would expire by tomorrow and I had to wait another 24 hours to board a train to Budapest, pushing my schedule back another priceless 24 hours (I have to be at GW for my residency by the 16th).
As soon as I realized what happened, an obnoxious taxi driver came rushing towards me.
"I can take you to Cerkezko," he insisted, as if he was the answer to my prayers.
I was reluctant. Carkezko, the next stop was over 80 km away -- the train would arrive there two hours later, by midnight. The taxi driver could not show me on the map where this town was -- I was doubtful he knew where it was -- and I was afraid that he would rip me off.
"No train, no money, no problem," he exclaimed, meaning if we didn't make it to the next town on time to meet the train, he would simply bring me back to Istanbul and I wouldn't have to pay a fare.
Without much choices and after talking with the station manager, I decided that this was foolishly the best course of action.
Though taxi drivers in Istanbul are known to be offensive, aggressive drivers and love to tell you their life stories, they are for the most part trustworthy. They are not thieves, and they are not known to harm you.
So, why, was I, Mr. Prompto, 15 minutes late for the train. Well, yesterday, when I arrived in Istanbul from London, I advanced my watch by one hour. But actually, I should have advanced my watch by two hours. I didn't know -- nobody had told me, not even the friendly flight attendant.
So for the entire day, I was operating an hour behind everyone else in Istanbul. I was wondering why my hotel receptionist at the Historia Hotel was so upset when I checked out at 11:15 AM -- I was over an hour late for check-out, and I didn't even realize it.
So Carmile, the taxi driver, drove like a bandit, honking and shouting, and got me to Cerkezkoy, 75 km away, with 15 minutes to spare. The price -- he didn't have a meter -- was $170 USD. The price was steep, but not having to spend another night in Istanbul (which I wouldn't really have minded) and boarding my train to Eastern Europe, was well worth the money.
So Taxi drivers in Istanbul can be trusted, for the most part. But I wouldn't suggest anyone miss the train. And always, always, synchronize your watch with the local time, religiously.
The Orient Express from Istanbul to Budapest was very noisy, dusty and hot. At first, the train was fully booked and they put me in a coed couchette with four other people squeezed together in a very tight cabin. I felt like I was in a submarine, except for the clack, clack, clack of the train rail that went on continuously through the damp, dusty night.
There was nothing better than getting woken up at 4:00 in the morning and having to disembark the train with women and children standing in line to show our passport to customs at Kapikule.
The restroom facilities was filthy and never had enough toilet paper or soap. So word for the wise, if you go on these long train trips, I suggest you bring your own basic essentials.
Also there is no food or water. It wasn't until we arrived in middle Bulgaria midday, where a little kid tried to sell us sandwiches and water from the train window for 5 Euros. Perhaps he had hiked up the prices, perhaps, his mother made the sandwiches. Nevertheless, we were famished and those salami and cheese sandwiches was exactly what the doctor ordered.
The train stopped in Bucharest where we had a quick look outside. I noticed that there were a lot of stray dogs running the streets. Homeless dogs appeared in the 1980's after Ceausecu's dictatorship, when houses with yards and fences were destroyed and replaced with apartments with very small rooms. This forced people to keep their dogs on the streets where they repopulated and now there is an enormous stray dog problem
Bucharest, Romania
Taking a picture of a statue. I have no idea what this lady was saying to me.
A Dip Between Two Continents
History: Istanbul, a city enriched by history, was chosen as the site for the New Rome by Constantine in 324 AD the founding date of the Byzantine Empire. It was enriched by Constantine and conquered by Faith Sultan Mahomet in 1453. Today it is a bustling, glowing and modernizing city that opens its arms to Western visitors.
The Grand Beylerbeyi Palace at the Waterfront overlooking the Bosphorus Strait and the Asian side.
Overlooking an ice cream maker twirling a huge dough of ice cream during my run downhill towards Sirceki
My new friends I swam together in the Bosphorus
(I left my bag of belongings with their mother as I dived in the refreshing brackish waters)
As the waterway that divides Europe and Asia, theBosphorus is the link between the Sea of Marmara and the Black Sea and is thus churned heavily and entirely clean.
Interestingly, Istanbul is the only city in the world located on two continents: Asia and Europe
In DC, I am always amazed whenever I get an opportunity to run in Maryland, Virginia and DC all on the same day (National Harbor to Alexandria via Woodrow Wilson Bridge is one such run).
But I've never considered ever running in two continents on the same day. I've never dreamt of swimming in between two continents, either.
Both of these goals were achieved today.
As a pedestrian, there is only one way to get across the Bosphorus (The Bosphorus Bridge is closed to pedestrians, runners, and cyclists).
This ferry took me over to the Asian side of Istanbul
I swam with this kid and all his friends at the shores of the Bosphorus
There are lots of remnants of old Navy equipment: torpedoes and even a carcass of an old submarine.
And that is exactly why I decided to take a dip in the Bosphorus Strait and the Sea of Marmara. The Bosphorus Strait, which separates the Sea of Marmar with the Black Sea, surprisingly was not very salty.
Contrary to public belief, you can swim in the Bosphorus. There are several locations north of the Galata Kpr (bridge) where someone can jump in and swim next to the shoreline. There are plenty of rock landing areas where an adventurous swimmer can swim ashore.
The Sea of Marmara (along Kennedy Boulevard) is a little more tricky since someone would have wear shoes to ensure he doesn't cut himself on the large jagged rocks.
And the water felt extremely cool and refreshingly uplifting.
After the dip, I continued my run from Sultanahmet to the Beylerbeyi Palace. I didn't take the beaten path where tourists and businessmen traversed. I took the lesser known path and wanted to see Istanbul in its purest, raw state.
In fact, I didn't see a single runner for the entire day, except in the evening running along Kennedy Boulevard adjacent to the Sea of Marmara.
During the day, I could hear many a tourists and locals commenting on how insane I was to go for a run in this unbearable hot and sticky temps. I commented casually, that it was no hotter than DC in July and running actually cooled me down some.
But it was challenging dodging people, cars and fishermen along the bumpy, narrow cobblestone streets. Ladies wearing headscarves, men selling their wares in the bazaars -- it was all very interesting; it was all very uniquely Istanbul -- the most unusual city in the world.
The managers and staff at the Historia Hotel, like all the Turks I met, were very friendly and hospitable.
Not having my running shoes (since my bag was still in DC), I had to manage just walking around town. But that was fine... there was plenty to see at a snail's pace.
The Jubilee Walkway is one of the official walkways in London which connects the heart of London with all the tourist attractions.
I was able to squeeze in a little bit of sightseeing between the Triathlon and my flight at Heathrow. It was nice to see East London and all the construction occurring around the new Excel Center, the future hub for the 2012 Summer Olympics.
The Magnificent and Magestic Jubilee Walkway links most of London with the central, heart of London, it's financial center.
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