The adventure begins! Dodging a potential multiple Union strikes in France, Julie and I successfully connected through Charles de Gaulle airport to reach Vienna Austria. The VBT driver was right there to take us across the boarder and to our hotel in Bratislava Slovakia. Whew... Managed to stay up until 8:30 then crashed for a 12 hour nap. Mark met us for Slovak goulash and, of course, a Budwar beer. Yum!!
Up an at 'em, this am to explore this fascinating ancient city. Bratislava is one of the oldest cities while at the same time, the youngest capital in the world. The history of this city dates back to 5000 b.c. The first Slavic tribe arrived in the 6th century. The great Moravian empire was founded in the 7th century when the Bratislava castle was built. So many historical events and battles, too many for this little blog. One thing of note, is this area was freed by the Russian Red army in 1945 to which it was under communist party rule until 1989 when the "the wall came down" and their rule ended. The Czechoslovak republic split in 1993 thus creating Slovakia and Bratislava as its capital.
Bratislava gives the feel and similar impression of Prague but smaller. The architecture is very impressive of the buildings in the old town area. The Danube River is an important feature, not only recreation, but transportation. This bike tour will follow the Danube to Budapest. What an adventure it will be !!
After lunch, first adventure was a coach tour.
The current residence of the Slovakian president. Grassalkovich Palace, or more cleverly known as the Presidental Palace.
Slovak Radio building -- upside down pyramid -- those silly architects.... Build in 1983
SNP bridge in the distance. Kinda looks like a UFO.... That was by design like on purpose ...
Looks like there is a restaurant, with beverages... Let go!
Views from the UFO observation deck.
Upon our descent, decided to walk along the Danube. Great views of the old town from this side of the river.
It took some arm twisting and a full bladder, but we agreed to stop at a local establishment for sustainance and a libation. Julie was in true form chatting up the wait staff and even scored a hug from the chef. The food was fabulous. Oh yeah, the beer was cold too. Not to mention, the banter was interesting. We are doing our darnest to learn a few Slovakian words with the help of many locals. Scored a few looks, like what did you just say.... Well, will keep trying ....
Speaking of trying, be sure to try to check back on this blog. The adventure is just beginning.....
Interesting history and pictures. Brenda came on the walk this morning and at coffee we found this first blog. she read it out loud to all of us. Only three at coffee. Our banter was not as interesting. Jeanne
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