Monday, October 9, 2017

Monday, October 9

We got off the ship in Koblenz for a shore excursion of Marksburg Castle. It is a beautifully preserved, 700 year old hilltop fortress. Spectacular views of Braunschweig, the Rhine, and surrounding countryside from its 550 foot perch. 
We got back on the ship in Braubach. 
The next 3 hours, we enjoyed spectacular views as we sailed through one of Germany's most scenic regions. We sat on the top deck on deck chairs. A few drops of rain here and there, but we are getting use to that now!  We passed vineyard-blanketed hills, splendid castles, towns, and dramatic rocks along tall banks. And, most impressive was the Lorelei Rock, at a dramatic curve in the river. This river maiden mesmerized sailors with her song and lured them to their demise at her feet. 

Cocoa, alone or with rum, was served on the top deck while we enjoyed the sights!
Back in the lounge, we learned how to make Rudesheim Coffee (coffee, warm brandy, and sugar) and had coffee and tea time. 

We have just docked in Rudesheim and have some time before we go into town for a festive dinner, traditional music, and, I suppose, lots of beer!  I know it will be late when we return, so I wanted to let you all know about our day!
I hope you all are have a great day across the pond!

12 comments:

  1. Sounds like a blast! Especially the cocoa and rum!! Don't forget to have some German beer later!! Enjoy! You sent some of the rainy weather back to the valley with us!! Hopefully it will stay here and you will have clear skies and smooth sailing the rest of your journey!!

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    1. Yep, starting tomorrow we are supposed to have sunny skies!
      No German beer tonight because we're in Reisling country so the wine was abundant!!!
      Maybe beer another night???

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  2. What a magnificent castle. We're enjoying your snapshots and stories. It looks like Vern is relaxing and enjoying the view.

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    1. Not sure whether Vern was watching the view or getting in a little shut-eye!

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  3. What a beautiful castle! Just when you think it can't get any better! Keep those beautiful pictures coming! We are thoroughly enjoying the journey! ❤️

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    1. Yes, it is absolutely amazing! The little towns are just how I pictured German towns to be! Fascinating!!

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  4. Oh, I think dad was snoozing for sure! Glad sunny skies are coming your way. Sounds like you are really enjoying your trip! What great experiences!

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    1. Dad had shorts on. Did you notice? I thought we'd have sunny skies today, but it doesn't seem like it on the forecast this morning. We'll be shriveled up by the time we get home!!!! Lol

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  5. I think Vern would perfer shorts on sn arctic cruise!

    You guys sound like your having so much fun. It is a beautiful place
    Have you scoped out any Monkjuice yet??
    Jim

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    1. Looking for monkjuice, but haven't found any yet!

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  6. Did you try any of the reisling? How about Mosel? You are in German wine country. I wonder, in response to Jim's comments, if the brandy they put in the coffee wasn't some form of 'monk juice' as we call it?
    Temps here are 18° this morning but sunny skies.
    Enjoy every moment and relax!

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  7. Yes, Reisling wines are very prevalent here. The vineyards are mostly for that type. Yes, we've had a lot of it. Every meal they serve it. Not so much the Mosel.

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