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03/19/2007: "Vacations"
I think there are four parts to a vacation. The first is the planning stage. I enjoy this part as I get to research and imagine myself in exotic and fun places. Since that usually happens months before the actual trip, there is a second part where you anticipate what’s to come. I think this piece is the most fun. You get to tell friends where you are going and whenever your life starts to drag a little, you can remind yourself that soon you will be on an adventure. The third part is the vacation itself. Unless it is a really extended trip, this always seems to go by too fast. You are so absorbed, you can’t believe it is over already. The final part is the aftermath where you come home relaxed and refreshed and you get to go through your photographs for years to come.
Travel sounds fun and exotic, but as I get ready for my fourth trip overseas in as many months, it can be a drag. This month’s trip, which begins Wednesday morning, will be an exception. Three of my closest friends have agreed to join me in what should prove to be an adventure to remember. Renting a car out of Frankfurt, Mike, Tim, Kurt and I will buzz through Western Europe in eight days. They are all great travelers and have covered much of North and South America. But this will be the first time any of them have been in Europe. It means a great deal that they are joining me, and also that I get to share Europe with them.
We will spend time in the Mosel Valley, known for its timber houses, castles and great wines. Besides visiting quaint villages and towns, we will also get to explore cities such as Luxembourg, Brussels, Antwerp, Amsterdam and Cologne. None of us are shy about exploring all of the local customs such as sampling the finest beers. And we also plan to get into some of the finest cathedrals and museums in the world.
The planning and anticipation has been exciting. Now it is time to travel. I plan to savor every minute and really enjoy a chance to spend true quality time with great friends. Stay tuned to this blog as I hope to post progress and photos.