Languish.org

General Category => Off the Record => Topic started by: merithyn on July 25, 2019, 05:37:51 PM

Title: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on July 25, 2019, 05:37:51 PM
So, I mentioned this in the back room, but now that my schedule is pretty set, I thought I'd bring it to the main page to see who might be interested in a couple of meet ups while I'm "across the pond".

Schedule
Dec 9 - Dec 15 - Barcelona
Dec 15 - Dec 18 - Naples
Dec 18 - Dec 26 - Rome
Dec 26 - Dec 30 - London
Dec 30 - Jan 3 - Paris

My birthday is December 13, which is a Friday this year, so celedrhing (and possibly Larchie?? :unsure: ) will be meeting me for a few beers in Barcelona. Brazen and I are getting together at some point in London (and she may travel with me to Paris!).

Anyone else up for meeting up?

EDIT: I've removed Mallorca from the schedule and shifted more days to Barcelona and Rome. Mallorca may be a day-trip, but I'd rather have more time in the bigger cities.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Eddie Teach on July 25, 2019, 07:55:42 PM
I'd happily meet you in Rome, but a little short on cash.  :sleep:
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Legbiter on July 26, 2019, 09:56:11 AM
It was a pleasure to meet celedhring in Barcelona merithyn. We had a great lunch at a local spot away from the worst tourist traps and he imparted very valuable heuristics on how to get the most out of my Barcelona stay. Only thing I regret is not getting a chance to lift something heavy with him.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on July 26, 2019, 11:11:25 AM
Quote from: Legbiter on July 26, 2019, 09:56:11 AM
It was a pleasure to meet celedhring in Barcelona merithyn. We had a great lunch at a local spot away from the worst tourist traps and he imparted very valuable heuristics on how to get the most out of my Barcelona stay. Only thing I regret is not getting a chance to lift something heavy with him.  :thumbsup:

I'm really looking forward to Barcelona, in particular because of meeting celedhring. ^_^
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Eddie Teach on July 26, 2019, 11:24:27 AM
Quote from: Legbiter on July 26, 2019, 09:56:11 AM
Only thing I regret is not getting a chance to lift something heavy with him.  :thumbsup:

Who picked up the check?
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on July 26, 2019, 01:59:21 PM
r/solotravel is freaking brilliant, by the way. Nearly all of my concerns regarding solo travel are gone thanks to that subreddit. :wub:
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: garbon on July 26, 2019, 02:03:15 PM
Quote from: merithyn on July 26, 2019, 01:59:21 PM
r/solotravel is freaking brilliant, by the way. Nearly all of my concerns regarding solo travel are gone thanks to that subreddit. :wub:

What did you have beyond safety?
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Malthus on July 26, 2019, 03:03:27 PM
My biggest concern travelling solo would be getting sick.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: garbon on July 26, 2019, 03:14:47 PM
Quote from: Malthus on July 26, 2019, 03:03:27 PM
My biggest concern travelling solo would be getting sick.

In what way?
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Legbiter on July 26, 2019, 04:07:41 PM
Quote from: Eddie Teach on July 26, 2019, 11:24:27 AM
Quote from: Legbiter on July 26, 2019, 09:56:11 AM
Only thing I regret is not getting a chance to lift something heavy with him.  :thumbsup:

Who picked up the check?

Moi.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Malthus on July 26, 2019, 04:47:16 PM
Quote from: garbon on July 26, 2019, 03:14:47 PM
Quote from: Malthus on July 26, 2019, 03:03:27 PM
My biggest concern travelling solo would be getting sick.

In what way?

If I get sick abroad, and I'm by myself, I'd have no-one to help me.

I've known people in this situation and it was difficult and frightening for them - you may be totally helpless and incapacitated by illness, and reliant on complete strangers and an unfamiliar healthcare system.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: ulmont on July 26, 2019, 09:47:40 PM
Quote from: Malthus on July 26, 2019, 04:47:16 PM
Quote from: garbon on July 26, 2019, 03:14:47 PM
Quote from: Malthus on July 26, 2019, 03:03:27 PM
My biggest concern travelling solo would be getting sick.

In what way?

If I get sick abroad, and I'm by myself, I'd have no-one to help me.

I've known people in this situation and it was difficult and frightening for them - you may be totally helpless and incapacitated by illness, and reliant on complete strangers and an unfamiliar healthcare system.

Luckily, for USians, traveling virtually anywhere else in the world means dealing with a superior healthcare system.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on July 29, 2019, 11:49:03 AM
Quote from: garbon on July 26, 2019, 02:03:15 PM
Quote from: merithyn on July 26, 2019, 01:59:21 PM
r/solotravel is freaking brilliant, by the way. Nearly all of my concerns regarding solo travel are gone thanks to that subreddit. :wub:

What did you have beyond safety?

Safety is a big one, of course. But additionally, I was afraid that as an older woman staying in hostels, I would have a hard time finding people to connect with. Most of my friends are younger (30s and early 40s), so I know that I can get along well with the "younger" crowd. But they don't know me, and I'm never sure how I come off to others. I'm Midwest Friendly, which helps, and in general I inherited my mom's ability to make friends anywhere (like a grocery store check-out line), but I had no idea how that age difference would factor into things abroad.

I guess, in short, I worried about being lonely and depressed traveling alone. It's been an ongoing issue here in Portland as I struggle to find people to do things with, and my fear was that it would follow me to Europe. Others on the subreddit expressed a similar concern, and there has been some great suggestions to help with those fears. Additionally, the stories that others have told (of travelers my age fitting right in) have helped.

Plus, things like where do I store my backpack in hostels during the day, what types of locks should I have on me, etc. Just little things that I've worried about that others have addressed. It's been nice.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on July 29, 2019, 11:51:34 AM
Quote from: ulmont on July 26, 2019, 09:47:40 PM
Quote from: Malthus on July 26, 2019, 04:47:16 PM
Quote from: garbon on July 26, 2019, 03:14:47 PM
Quote from: Malthus on July 26, 2019, 03:03:27 PM
My biggest concern travelling solo would be getting sick.

In what way?

If I get sick abroad, and I'm by myself, I'd have no-one to help me.

I've known people in this situation and it was difficult and frightening for them - you may be totally helpless and incapacitated by illness, and reliant on complete strangers and an unfamiliar healthcare system.

Luckily, for USians, traveling virtually anywhere else in the world means dealing with a superior healthcare system.

You are so not wrong....

Also, I've never been debilitatingly sick due to an illness. I honestly don't remember ever having had the flu, and even when I had walking pneumonia, I was able to power through and take care of myself. Short of a serious accident, this just isn't something I'm overly worried about.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Duque de Bragança on August 06, 2019, 01:31:04 PM
Quote from: merithyn on July 25, 2019, 05:37:51 PM
So, I mentioned this in the back room, but now that my schedule is pretty set, I thought I'd bring it to the main page to see who might be interested in a couple of meet ups while I'm "across the pond".

Schedule

Dec 30 - Jan 3 - Paris

My birthday is December 13, which is a Friday this year, so celedrhing (and possibly Larchie?? :unsure: ) will be meeting me for a few beers in Barcelona. Brazen and I are getting together at some point in London (and she may travel with me to Paris!).

Anyone else up for meeting up?

NYE period is not the best time of the year, but I might still be around, as in not in Portugal.
If you go from London to Paris, I assume you will go by train, more practical and faster. Brazen speaks French so should be able to travel around in Paris but if Gare du Nord or the complexity of the Parisian transportation network scare you I can give pointers if need be.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Malthus on August 06, 2019, 01:37:55 PM
Quote from: merithyn on July 29, 2019, 11:51:34 AM


Also, I've never been debilitatingly sick due to an illness. I honestly don't remember ever having had the flu, and even when I had walking pneumonia, I was able to power through and take care of myself. Short of a serious accident, this just isn't something I'm overly worried about.

I've not been as robust. A couple of times when travelling through SE Asia I got so sick I thought I was in serious trouble, with really debilitating symptoms. If my GF (now wife) wasn't with me, I'd have been in a lot worse shape.

My biggest fears while travelling were getting violently mugged, having my stuff (passport, money) stolen without being mugged, and getting badly ill - and of the three, only the last actually happened.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on August 06, 2019, 05:31:44 PM
Quote from: Duque de Bragança on August 06, 2019, 01:31:04 PM

NYE period is not the best time of the year, but I might still be around, as in not in Portugal.
If you go from London to Paris, I assume you will go by train, more practical and faster. Brazen speaks French so should be able to travel around in Paris but if Gare du Nord or the complexity of the Parisian transportation network scare you I can give pointers if need be.

Dude, I'm an American going to Europe over the holidays. Of *course* I'm going to be in Paris for NYE!

Yes to the chunnel to Paris from London. Brazen hasn't solidified going yet, so I may be on my own, and yes, tips on the train are appreciated! :)
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on August 14, 2019, 12:50:26 PM
Adjusted the itinerary a bit.

Suggestions for good day-trips from Barcelona?
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Sheilbh on August 31, 2019, 11:51:45 AM
If you're on public transport I'd pop up to Girona.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Grinning_Colossus on September 02, 2019, 04:58:25 AM
Quote from: Malthus on July 26, 2019, 04:47:16 PM
Quote from: garbon on July 26, 2019, 03:14:47 PM
Quote from: Malthus on July 26, 2019, 03:03:27 PM
My biggest concern travelling solo would be getting sick.

In what way?

If I get sick abroad, and I'm by myself, I'd have no-one to help me.

I've known people in this situation and it was difficult and frightening for them - you may be totally helpless and incapacitated by illness, and reliant on complete strangers and an unfamiliar healthcare system.

Yeah, I've heard harrowing stories. A friend of mine once passed out on a bus and woke up in a strange house hooked up to an IV trip with a Georgian babushka staring down at him.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Zoupa on September 04, 2019, 01:14:45 AM
I'd cut down on Barcelona time and adjust to more days in Paris or London but that's just my personal preference.

I quite enjoyed Valencia, in the general vicinity of Barcelona. Might be hard for a day trip though, can't recall how long the train ride was.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Duque de Bragança on September 04, 2019, 04:16:38 AM
Quote from: Zoupa on September 04, 2019, 01:14:45 AM
I'd cut down on Barcelona time and adjust to more days in Paris or London but that's just my personal preference.

I quite enjoyed Valencia, in the general vicinity of Barcelona. Might be hard for a day trip though, can't recall how long the train ride was.

Euromed service takes a little bit more than 3 hours.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: garbon on September 04, 2019, 04:43:59 AM
Quote from: Grinning_Colossus on September 02, 2019, 04:58:25 AM
Quote from: Malthus on July 26, 2019, 04:47:16 PM
Quote from: garbon on July 26, 2019, 03:14:47 PM
Quote from: Malthus on July 26, 2019, 03:03:27 PM
My biggest concern travelling solo would be getting sick.

In what way?

If I get sick abroad, and I'm by myself, I'd have no-one to help me.

I've known people in this situation and it was difficult and frightening for them - you may be totally helpless and incapacitated by illness, and reliant on complete strangers and an unfamiliar healthcare system.

Yeah, I've heard harrowing stories. A friend of mine once passed out on a bus and woke up in a strange house hooked up to an IV trip with a Georgian babushka staring down at him.

I'm not sure solo travel in Western Europe is exactly comparable to solo travel in Georgia or as in Malthus's example - SE Asia.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on September 04, 2019, 10:18:52 AM
Quote from: Zoupa on September 04, 2019, 01:14:45 AM
I'd cut down on Barcelona time and adjust to more days in Paris or London but that's just my personal preference.

I quite enjoyed Valencia, in the general vicinity of Barcelona. Might be hard for a day trip though, can't recall how long the train ride was.

Paris is a diversion and an excuse to say I've been. It's not really something I'm overly excited about (except for time with my potential travel mates). I've been to London several times, and while I'd move there tomorrow if I could, I've never been to Spain so I'm comfortable leaving that a little more time to explore.

Valencia has come up a couple of times, and it may be worth doing an overnight visit there. Not sure yet. Leaving myself room for flexibility on a lot of this trip for things such as that. :)
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Zoupa on September 04, 2019, 10:29:22 AM
Paris, a diversion?????

You're dead to me  :mad:
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on September 04, 2019, 10:44:21 AM
Quote from: Zoupa on September 04, 2019, 10:29:22 AM
Paris, a diversion?????

You're dead to me  :mad:

France sounds delightful. Paris? Not so much.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Barrister on September 04, 2019, 11:58:57 AM
Quote from: merithyn on September 04, 2019, 10:44:21 AM
Quote from: Zoupa on September 04, 2019, 10:29:22 AM
Paris, a diversion?????

You're dead to me  :mad:

France sounds delightful. Paris? Not so much.

Now I've never been to Paris, and you know that I'm all about the rustic countryside... but there's still something about a major world city like London, New York, or I assume Paris.  I'm sure you'll have an amazing time, even if you wouldn't want to live there.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on September 04, 2019, 12:06:34 PM
Quote from: Barrister on September 04, 2019, 11:58:57 AM
Now I've never been to Paris, and you know that I'm all about the rustic countryside... but there's still something about a major world city like London, New York, or I assume Paris.  I'm sure you'll have an amazing time, even if you wouldn't want to live there.

I'm sure there will be things about it that I find absolutely delightful. It's just not a dream destination for me. :)
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Valmy on September 04, 2019, 01:09:44 PM
Quote from: merithyn on September 04, 2019, 10:44:21 AM
Quote from: Zoupa on September 04, 2019, 10:29:22 AM
Paris, a diversion?????

You're dead to me  :mad:

France sounds delightful. Paris? Not so much.

The jealous and petty smearing of Paris by the provincials has gone too far! :ultra:
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Valmy on September 04, 2019, 01:11:14 PM
Quote from: merithyn on September 04, 2019, 12:06:34 PM
Quote from: Barrister on September 04, 2019, 11:58:57 AM
Now I've never been to Paris, and you know that I'm all about the rustic countryside... but there's still something about a major world city like London, New York, or I assume Paris.  I'm sure you'll have an amazing time, even if you wouldn't want to live there.

I'm sure there will be things about it that I find absolutely delightful. It's just not a dream destination for me. :)

Ah. Well maybe you just have to visit first -_-
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Admiral Yi on September 04, 2019, 01:19:21 PM
Does Paris still have its dog shit problem?
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Syt on September 04, 2019, 01:27:17 PM
Quote from: merithyn on September 04, 2019, 12:06:34 PM
Quote from: Barrister on September 04, 2019, 11:58:57 AM
Now I've never been to Paris, and you know that I'm all about the rustic countryside... but there's still something about a major world city like London, New York, or I assume Paris.  I'm sure you'll have an amazing time, even if you wouldn't want to live there.

I'm sure there will be things about it that I find absolutely delightful. It's just not a dream destination for me. :)

Neither was Rome for me. But then I visited it for work and absolutely loved my time there. Beautiful city. :)
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on September 04, 2019, 02:35:28 PM
Quote from: Syt on September 04, 2019, 01:27:17 PM
Quote from: merithyn on September 04, 2019, 12:06:34 PM
Quote from: Barrister on September 04, 2019, 11:58:57 AM
Now I've never been to Paris, and you know that I'm all about the rustic countryside... but there's still something about a major world city like London, New York, or I assume Paris.  I'm sure you'll have an amazing time, even if you wouldn't want to live there.

I'm sure there will be things about it that I find absolutely delightful. It's just not a dream destination for me. :)

Neither was Rome for me. But then I visited it for work and absolutely loved my time there. Beautiful city. :)

It could be said that I'm managing expectations. ;)
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: garbon on September 04, 2019, 04:11:59 PM
I'd say Paris is nice to visit but definitely not a highlight outside of the art museums.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Zoupa on September 04, 2019, 06:15:30 PM
 :rolleyes:
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Maladict on September 05, 2019, 12:35:53 AM
lolwut?
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on September 05, 2019, 01:00:45 AM
I was deeply disturbed on my last visit to Paris when all the Parisians were nice to me; the old ways are dying  :(
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Duque de Bragança on September 05, 2019, 05:48:03 AM
Quote from: Admiral Yi on September 04, 2019, 01:19:21 PM
Does Paris still have its dog shit problem?

Right now there are lots of engineering works for the Greater Paris public transportation networks in the coming years plus city hall elections next years. That's the big issue. During summer with even more lines closed for summer repairs or renewals, it was tedious at times with many detours.
Dogs are still a problem though.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Valmy on September 05, 2019, 08:19:57 AM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on September 05, 2019, 01:00:45 AM
I was deeply disturbed on my last visit to Paris when all the Parisians were nice to me; the old ways are dying  :(


That was a big drive during the 90s in the run up to the World Cup. Everybody in Paris, except the lady in the tourist office ironicaly, was lovely to me. Especially the constantly drunk arab guys who ran my hotel, and being very well integrated they also had all their dogs sitting by the front desk.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: HVC on September 05, 2019, 08:21:37 AM
I too wasn't overly impressed with paris. the museums were cool though. I was only there for like 2 days though
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: HVC on September 05, 2019, 08:23:26 AM
I only had issues with wait staff/service staff in paris. the people for the most part were cool. my French was rusty, though I found if I filled my lack of knowledge with Portuguese rather then English I got much better responses.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: garbon on September 05, 2019, 08:29:07 AM
Quote from: HVC on September 05, 2019, 08:21:37 AM
I too wasn't overly impressed with paris. the museums were cool though. I was only there for like 2 days though

That's my general impression too. I think I've been 3 times: 1 day, 5 day and 3 day trips.

Not terrible, mind you, but nothing I'd highly recommend either.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: garbon on September 05, 2019, 08:29:56 AM
Quote from: HVC on September 05, 2019, 08:23:26 AM
I only had issues with wait staff/service staff in paris. the people for the most part were cool. my French was rusty, though I found if I filled my lack of knowledge with Portuguese rather then English I got much better responses.

The last time I was in Paris, I had a waitress apologize for her skill level in English! :o
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Valmy on September 05, 2019, 09:45:13 AM
The French are amazingly shitty at English which they are taught every year they are in school btw  :P

But it gets worse outside of Paris.

Anyway Paris is the world's greatest city. You people make me sad.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Razgovory on September 05, 2019, 10:06:27 AM
I'd love to see the City of Lights.  I'd be a total square and mostly do the tourist things like look at the museums.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: garbon on September 05, 2019, 10:18:01 AM
Quote from: Valmy on September 05, 2019, 09:45:13 AM
Anyway Paris is the world's greatest city.

:wacko:
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on September 05, 2019, 10:34:34 AM
I guess I just don't know what makes Paris "special", and not like any other large major city. The Eiffel Tower, of course, and the Arch de Triumphe. The Louvre (though I've heard it's so crowded as to be awful), and at one time, Notre Dame.

Add to that the distaste for Americans (which, admittedly, I totally understand right now), and it's always been kind of an overblown idealized place in my mind.

So those of you who love the city, what should I do to make it feel special? What is at least one thing that makes Paris Paris and will potentially change my mind about it?
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: garbon on September 05, 2019, 10:38:26 AM
Quote from: merithyn on September 05, 2019, 10:34:34 AM
The Louvre (though I've heard it's so crowded as to be awful)

That I definitely don't think is true outside of the Mona Lisa room. I definitely don't think its more crowded than any other major art museum / there are parts that were practically dead every time I went like the Napoleon III apartments.

Quote from: merithyn on September 05, 2019, 10:34:34 AM
Add to that the distaste for Americans (which, admittedly, I totally understand right now), and it's always been kind of an overblown idealized place in my mind.

That hasn't actually been my experience either. The Parisians I encountered weren't any more unfriendly than Londoners or New Yorkers. :D
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on September 05, 2019, 10:42:52 AM
Quote from: garbon on September 05, 2019, 10:38:26 AM
Quote from: merithyn on September 05, 2019, 10:34:34 AM
The Louvre (though I've heard it's so crowded as to be awful)

That I definitely don't think is true outside of the Mona Lisa room. I definitely don't think its more crowded than any other major art museum / there are parts that were practically dead every time I went like the Napoleon III apartments.

This makes me happy to hear. I'll add it back onto my to-do list then.

Quote
Quote from: merithyn on September 05, 2019, 10:34:34 AM
Add to that the distaste for Americans (which, admittedly, I totally understand right now), and it's always been kind of an overblown idealized place in my mind.

That hasn't actually been my experience either. The Parisians I encountered weren't any more unfriendly than Londoners or New Yorkers. :D

Mind you, my ambivalence toward Paris has been building for several decades. I fully accept that my impressions may be outdated. :sleep:

I am going. I'm still ambivalent, but I'm going. So I'm asking for what those who love Paris find so appealing.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: HVC on September 05, 2019, 10:43:27 AM
Quote from: garbon on September 05, 2019, 10:38:26 AM
Quote from: merithyn on September 05, 2019, 10:34:34 AM
The Louvre (though I've heard it's so crowded as to be awful)

That I definitely don't think is true outside of the Mona Lisa room. I definitely don't think its more crowded than any other major art museum / there are parts that were practically dead every time I went like the Napoleon III apartments.

Quote from: merithyn on September 05, 2019, 10:34:34 AM
Add to that the distaste for Americans (which, admittedly, I totally understand right now), and it's always been kind of an overblown idealized place in my mind.

That hasn't actually been my experience either. The Parisians I encountered weren't any more unfriendly than Londoners or New Yorkers. :D

Damning with faint praise lol
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: HVC on September 05, 2019, 10:43:59 AM
and yes, the louvre wasn't too crowded (but normal big museum standards).
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on September 05, 2019, 11:28:19 AM
Quote from: HVC on September 05, 2019, 10:43:27 AM
Damning with faint praise lol

New Yorkers aren't rude, really. They're just always in a goddamn hurry, and do not want you or anyone else to slow them down.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: garbon on September 05, 2019, 12:00:15 PM
Quote from: merithyn on September 05, 2019, 11:28:19 AM
Quote from: HVC on September 05, 2019, 10:43:27 AM
Damning with faint praise lol

New Yorkers aren't rude, really. They're just always in a goddamn hurry, and do not want you or anyone else to slow them down.

I'm not sure. I don't believe I hear or say fuck you as much with strangers since leaving New York. :blush:
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: The Minsky Moment on September 05, 2019, 12:18:01 PM
Quote from: merithyn on September 05, 2019, 10:34:34 AM
I guess I just don't know what makes Paris "special", and not like any other large major city. The Eiffel Tower, of course, and the Arch de Triumphe. The Louvre (though I've heard it's so crowded as to be awful), and at one time, Notre Dame.

Those are not the things that make Paris special - the Eiffer tower is a hunk of metal in a rather unattractive plaza, the Arc de Triomphe is a bombastic 19th century monument in a middle of a crowded avenue. The louvre is extraordinary but yes overcrowded.

Get up - have your breakfast, toss away your guidebooks and maps and stroll out your hotel door.  Walk out and then keep walking.  Down the broad avenues, into and out of the side streets, through the parks.  Stop for coffee in a quiet café off the path, grab a baguette, or pick up some kosher pizza in the marais.  Get a feel for the rhythm of the street life and the people who live there.  Watch the bourgeois go their way in the right bank, the students in left.  Pass by the ruins of Notre Dame and walk through the small but charming i'le st louis. Peruse the shops.  Along the way find some charming little restaurant off the beaten path and reserve dinner there - don't bother looking what the guide books say.  If you absolutely need to DO something, go to museum like Rodin, with gardens and places to stroll.  As a midwesterner you will find the Paris winters mild and you won't get crushed by the crowds in the big indoor museums.  Grab an afternoon port and stroll around some more as the sun goes down. 

You can do that in London or New York.  But it will be London and New York.  It won't be Paris.  Once you've done it in Paris, you'll know.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: garbon on September 05, 2019, 12:28:54 PM
You'll know it isn't that exciting?
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Zoupa on September 05, 2019, 12:30:41 PM
We get it garbon. We get it. Paris doesn't care about you either.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: garbon on September 05, 2019, 12:38:38 PM
Quote from: Zoupa on September 05, 2019, 12:30:41 PM
We get it garbon. We get it. Paris doesn't care about you either.

Hey, Joan is the one who ended with such a silly paragraph. Also, I pointed out some counterpoints to Meri's negative preconceptions.

I'll agree that Parisians generally don't care for me but that's because they admittedly rarely think of me. -_-
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Eddie Teach on September 05, 2019, 12:51:56 PM
In spite of the gushing review Minsky still lives in New York.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Zoupa on September 05, 2019, 12:53:53 PM
Joan captured the right way to visit Paris. Following the guides, TripAdvisor etc is a bad idea.

Best way to experience Paris is to take it easy.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Zoupa on September 05, 2019, 12:54:50 PM
Quote from: Eddie Teach on September 05, 2019, 12:51:56 PM
In spite of the gushing review Minsky still lives in New York.

I'd like to live on Mars. One does what one can.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on September 05, 2019, 01:35:06 PM
Quote from: The Minsky Moment on September 05, 2019, 12:18:01 PM
Quote from: merithyn on September 05, 2019, 10:34:34 AM
I guess I just don't know what makes Paris "special", and not like any other large major city. The Eiffel Tower, of course, and the Arch de Triumphe. The Louvre (though I've heard it's so crowded as to be awful), and at one time, Notre Dame.

Those are not the things that make Paris special - the Eiffer tower is a hunk of metal in a rather unattractive plaza, the Arc de Triomphe is a bombastic 19th century monument in a middle of a crowded avenue. The louvre is extraordinary but yes overcrowded.

Get up - have your breakfast, toss away your guidebooks and maps and stroll out your hotel door.  Walk out and then keep walking.  Down the broad avenues, into and out of the side streets, through the parks.  Stop for coffee in a quiet café off the path, grab a baguette, or pick up some kosher pizza in the marais.  Get a feel for the rhythm of the street life and the people who live there.  Watch the bourgeois go their way in the right bank, the students in left.  Pass by the ruins of Notre Dame and walk through the small but charming i'le st louis. Peruse the shops.  Along the way find some charming little restaurant off the beaten path and reserve dinner there - don't bother looking what the guide books say.  If you absolutely need to DO something, go to museum like Rodin, with gardens and places to stroll.  As a midwesterner you will find the Paris winters mild and you won't get crushed by the crowds in the big indoor museums.  Grab an afternoon port and stroll around some more as the sun goes down. 

You can do that in London or New York.  But it will be London and New York.  It won't be Paris.  Once you've done it in Paris, you'll know.

I do this in every city that I visit. It's the best and really only way to get a feel for a city. One day is always set aside to wander the city streets and learn the ebb and flow of the people.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Malthus on September 05, 2019, 01:35:55 PM
Quote from: garbon on September 05, 2019, 12:00:15 PM
Quote from: merithyn on September 05, 2019, 11:28:19 AM
Quote from: HVC on September 05, 2019, 10:43:27 AM
Damning with faint praise lol

New Yorkers aren't rude, really. They're just always in a goddamn hurry, and do not want you or anyone else to slow them down.

I'm not sure. I don't believe I hear or say fuck you as much with strangers since leaving New York. :blush:

The old New York tourist joke:

"Excuse me, sir, but can you show me the way to the Empire State Building... or should I just go fuck myself?"
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on October 25, 2019, 03:08:59 PM
I booked my flights from Barcelona to Rome, and Rome to London today.

It's only about six weeks away. Time to shore things up a bit. Who will be around in any of the following places that is interested in meeting up?

December 9 - December 15: Barcelona
December 15 - December 18: Naples
December 18 - December 25: Rome
December 25 - December 30: UK
December 30 - January 3: Paris

Note:
* December 13th is my birthday, and celedrhing has said that he'll be up for meeting up that night. Anyone else wanna join us? :)
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: mongers on October 25, 2019, 03:18:36 PM
Quote from: merithyn on October 25, 2019, 03:08:59 PM
I booked my flights from Barcelona to Rome, and Rome to London today.

It's only about six weeks away. Time to shore things up a bit. Who will be around in any of the following places that is interested in meeting up?

December 9 - December 15: Barcelona
December 15 - December 18: Naples
December 18 - December 25: Rome
December 25 - December 30: UK
December 30 - January 3: Paris

Note:
* December 13th is my birthday, and celedrhing has said that he'll be up for meeting up that night. Anyone else wanna join us? :)

:cool:

Nice itinerary there, Meri.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Valmy on October 25, 2019, 03:21:23 PM
Traveling on Christmas day eh? Interesting.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: mongers on October 25, 2019, 03:28:01 PM
Quote from: Valmy on October 25, 2019, 03:21:23 PM
Traveling on Christmas day eh? Interesting.

To a UK in the midst of two weeks of chaos following a stalemate election result, a prime minister refusing to leave office and increasingly angry rival crowds of Brexiters and Remainers on London's streets.   :P
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on October 25, 2019, 03:32:12 PM
Quote from: Valmy on October 25, 2019, 03:21:23 PM
Traveling on Christmas day eh? Interesting.

Always cheaper to fly ON a holiday rather than AROUND a holiday. Also, since it's just me and no holiday plans, flying out on that day makes it easy. I haven't celebrated Christmas day in years, so no biggie for me.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on October 25, 2019, 03:36:21 PM
Quote from: mongers on October 25, 2019, 03:28:01 PM
Quote from: Valmy on October 25, 2019, 03:21:23 PM
Traveling on Christmas day eh? Interesting.

To a UK in the midst of two weeks of chaos following a stalemate election result, a prime minister refusing to leave office and increasingly angry rival crowds of Brexiters and Remainers on London's streets.   :P

On the plus side, I'm heading further north for the bulk of my stay, I think, so I won't have to deal with a Brexit-messy London for more than a day at most. :)
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: mongers on October 25, 2019, 03:41:53 PM
Quote from: merithyn on October 25, 2019, 03:36:21 PM
Quote from: mongers on October 25, 2019, 03:28:01 PM
Quote from: Valmy on October 25, 2019, 03:21:23 PM
Traveling on Christmas day eh? Interesting.

To a UK in the midst of two weeks of chaos following a stalemate election result, a prime minister refusing to leave office and increasingly angry rival crowds of Brexiters and Remainers on London's streets.   :P

On the plus side, I'm heading further north for the bulk of my stay, I think, so I won't have to deal with a Brexit-messy London for more than a day at most. :)

Wise choice, though if Brexit gets rammed through, you might need your passport on leaving the M25 from a newly independent London and at Berwick on Tweed.  :D

Have a fun time Meri. :hug:
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Valmy on October 25, 2019, 03:46:22 PM
Quote from: merithyn on October 25, 2019, 03:32:12 PM
Quote from: Valmy on October 25, 2019, 03:21:23 PM
Traveling on Christmas day eh? Interesting.

Always cheaper to fly ON a holiday rather than AROUND a holiday. Also, since it's just me and no holiday plans, flying out on that day makes it easy. I haven't celebrated Christmas day in years, so no biggie for me.

Well may you have holly jolly travel day!
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Admiral Yi on October 25, 2019, 08:28:53 PM
I applaud your counterintuitive thinking Meri.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on October 26, 2019, 03:31:50 AM
Looking forward to showing you the wonders of...........drumroll........Preston  :P
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on October 28, 2019, 03:11:56 PM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on October 26, 2019, 03:31:50 AM
Looking forward to showing you the wonders of...........drumroll........Preston  :P

I'm dragging Tonitrus with me, so we'll all have a wonderful time, I'm sure. ^_^
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Barrister on October 28, 2019, 03:31:41 PM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on October 26, 2019, 03:31:50 AM
Looking forward to showing you the wonders of...........drumroll........Preston  :P

Preston was lovely back in 2006. :)
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on October 28, 2019, 03:34:13 PM
So long ago  :(
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on October 28, 2019, 03:34:57 PM
Quote from: merithyn on October 28, 2019, 03:11:56 PM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on October 26, 2019, 03:31:50 AM
Looking forward to showing you the wonders of...........drumroll........Preston  :P

I'm dragging Tonitrus with me, so we'll all have a wonderful time, I'm sure. ^_^

Oh right, that sounds good  :cool:
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on October 28, 2019, 05:09:13 PM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on October 28, 2019, 03:34:57 PM
Quote from: merithyn on October 28, 2019, 03:11:56 PM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on October 26, 2019, 03:31:50 AM
Looking forward to showing you the wonders of...........drumroll........Preston  :P

I'm dragging Tonitrus with me, so we'll all have a wonderful time, I'm sure. ^_^

Oh right, that sounds good  :cool:

Do you have a preference of date? You said after Boxing Day. So, Dec 27, 28, 29, or 30?
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on October 29, 2019, 02:34:45 AM
No preferences as such; I'm not sure when various family members are up or down south or whatever. I'm staying up north so whatever fits with your itinerary will be fine for me  :cool:

Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on October 31, 2019, 02:13:05 PM
Looks like we'll be adding Edinburgh to the itinerary. :cool:
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Syt on October 31, 2019, 02:31:41 PM
Make sure to pronounce it correctly. It's EE-din-boork. :)
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Malthus on October 31, 2019, 02:45:37 PM
Quote from: merithyn on October 31, 2019, 02:13:05 PM
Looks like we'll be adding Edinburgh to the itinerary. :cool:

I went there when I was twelve, with my dad. I remember it being a very beautiful city, and in particular, I remember the castle there - it's on a towering height overlooking the city.

We also went to Glasgow, mostly from that I remember how the entire city seemed grey and glowering. He got his Doctorate of Science degree from the university there, the reason for the trip. He sure stood out - in a graduation ceremony (in a vast grey stone hall), where everyone else was wearing black robes - he was wearing crimson and yellow.  :lol:
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on November 01, 2019, 02:42:36 AM
Yes, Edinburgh is a great city for tourists; relatively small but still a capital and very scenic. Not much daylight in December though.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Malthus on November 01, 2019, 07:51:28 AM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on November 01, 2019, 02:42:36 AM
Yes, Edinburgh is a great city for tourists; relatively small but still a capital and very scenic. Not much daylight in December though.

It always freaks me out how far north the UK, and particularly of course Scotland, actually is.

People think of Canada as "the north". But by comparison, Canadians are southerners.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Syt on November 01, 2019, 07:54:51 AM
I grew up slightly North of Edmonton. :)
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Grey Fox on November 01, 2019, 08:01:10 AM
I wish we could have Lyon weather here. (Another city on the 45th north).
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Maximus on November 01, 2019, 12:52:33 PM
I grew up at a similar latitude as Edinburgh and Copenhagen
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Barrister on November 01, 2019, 12:58:07 PM
Quote from: Malthus on November 01, 2019, 07:51:28 AM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on November 01, 2019, 02:42:36 AM
Yes, Edinburgh is a great city for tourists; relatively small but still a capital and very scenic. Not much daylight in December though.

It always freaks me out how far north the UK, and particularly of course Scotland, actually is.

People think of Canada as "the north". But by comparison, Canadians are southerners.

Southern Ontario are southerners.  Toronto is south of the 49th parallel even - apparently down at 43 degrees latitude.

Edmonton is about the same latitude as Edinburgh.

And of course there's much much more of Canada further north than that.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Valmy on November 01, 2019, 01:01:33 PM
Whitehorse and St. Petersburg are about on the same latitude yes?
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Barrister on November 01, 2019, 01:36:26 PM
Quote from: Valmy on November 01, 2019, 01:01:33 PM
Whitehorse and St. Petersburg are about on the same latitude yes?

They're about 1 degree apart (Whitehorse being further north).
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: ulmont on November 01, 2019, 01:36:39 PM
Quote from: Barrister on November 01, 2019, 12:58:07 PM
Southern Ontario are southerners.  Toronto is south of the 49th parallel even - apparently down at 43 degrees latitude.

Meanwhile, down here at just below 30 degrees I'm a bit below where Marrakesh sits.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on November 01, 2019, 01:53:58 PM
The odd thing is how warm a lot of the winters are here, especially on west coasts. Some winters I never put my coat on even though i live at 54N.

It is more like the dark season than the cold wintry season.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Malthus on November 01, 2019, 01:57:57 PM
Quote from: Barrister on November 01, 2019, 12:58:07 PM
Quote from: Malthus on November 01, 2019, 07:51:28 AM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on November 01, 2019, 02:42:36 AM
Yes, Edinburgh is a great city for tourists; relatively small but still a capital and very scenic. Not much daylight in December though.

It always freaks me out how far north the UK, and particularly of course Scotland, actually is.

People think of Canada as "the north". But by comparison, Canadians are southerners.

Southern Ontario are southerners.  Toronto is south of the 49th parallel even - apparently down at 43 degrees latitude.

Edmonton is about the same latitude as Edinburgh.

And of course there's much much more of Canada further north than that.

The vast majority of the Canadian population lives within 100 Km of the US border.

Toronto, Montreal and Ottawa are all below the 49th parallel.

There is lots of Canada that is up north, but few Canadians, percentage-wise, actually live there.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Valmy on November 01, 2019, 02:01:03 PM
I can't blame you. Montana and North Dakota are frozen tundras so I cannot imagine how much fun Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan are.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Barrister on November 01, 2019, 02:03:47 PM
Quote from: Valmy on November 01, 2019, 02:01:03 PM
I can't blame you. Montana and North Dakota are frozen tundras so I cannot imagine how much fun Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan are.

All three are absolutely delightful! :mad:

Really you just have to try and embrace winter, rather than hide inside for 5 months.  Go out there and ski, skate, toboggan and the like.  All things you can't do if it's warm.

Personally, I can't wait for the outdoor ice to be back.  I want to work on my stick-handling and shot. :cool:
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Malthus on November 01, 2019, 02:11:27 PM
It's actually not merely a matter of temperature - it's also one of geography. Go north, and in much of Canada you hit the Canadian Shield, a set of rock formations where the bedrock (scraped by the glaciers in the last ice age) leaves a landscape very hard to live on.  Everywhere there os shield, there is very low population density. For good reason.

Alberta mostly avoids this, just one corner of it has Shield on it.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: mongers on November 01, 2019, 02:33:18 PM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on November 01, 2019, 01:53:58 PM
The odd thing is how warm a lot of the winters are here, especially on west coasts. Some winters I never put my coat on even though i live at 54N.

It is more like the dark season than the cold wintry season.

Yes when I lived at 52.5N I found that, though being Wales it should be the 'dark WET season'


And Lancaster in your neck of the woods, was just that extra bit too dark for me, that time of year.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Tonitrus on November 01, 2019, 02:35:57 PM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on November 01, 2019, 01:53:58 PM
The odd thing is how warm a lot of the winters are here, especially on west coasts. Some winters I never put my coat on even though i live at 54N.

It is more like the dark season than the cold wintry season.

That's what I noticed coming from even Alaska...how oppressively dark it gets here.

In Alaska at least, once the snow hits, and stays, it is actually rather "bright" despite the lack of sun (with the transition period before that being quite gloomy, of course).
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Valmy on November 01, 2019, 02:40:22 PM
It is what gives the Scots their cheery disposition.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Malthus on November 01, 2019, 02:47:10 PM
Quote from: Valmy on November 01, 2019, 02:40:22 PM
It is what gives the Scots their cheery disposition.

That, the constant drizzle, and the English.  :D
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on November 12, 2019, 02:18:19 PM
Okay! Dates are solid now!

Barcelona Meet-Up: December 13 -
Time: 1900
Place: TBD (Celed, suggestions??)

Preston Meet-up: December 28 -
Time: 1600
Place: TBD (RH??)

London Meet-up: December 30 -
Time: 1900
Place: TBD (Sheilbh? Tamas? garbon? Anyone??)
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on November 12, 2019, 03:44:55 PM
I thought I could meet you at the railway station and go for cocktails then my family could join us for a meal (maybe at the Indian vegetarian place we all like?) and then we could take it from there?

Unfortunately it will already be dark when you arrive......and probably raining  :P
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Sheilbh on November 12, 2019, 04:02:35 PM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on November 01, 2019, 02:42:36 AM
Yes, Edinburgh is a great city for tourists; relatively small but still a capital and very scenic. Not much daylight in December though.
Honestly think it's the most elegant capital in Europe.

QuotePeople think of Canada as "the north". But by comparison, Canadians are southerners.
I grew up in the North of Scotland. We were at around the 59th parallel, so the top of Quebec/Nunavut level :blink:
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Sheilbh on November 12, 2019, 04:03:14 PM
30th should work for me :)

Anyone else?

Should probably think of somewhere indoors.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on November 12, 2019, 04:09:25 PM
Quote from: Sheilbh on November 12, 2019, 04:03:14 PM
30th should work for me :)

Anyone else?

Should probably think of somewhere indoors.

Berry will be joining us. ^_^
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on November 12, 2019, 04:11:24 PM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on November 12, 2019, 03:44:55 PM
I thought I could meet you at the railway station and go for cocktails then my family could join us for a meal (maybe at the Indian vegetarian place we all like?) and then we could take it from there?

Sounds perfect! Tonitrus and I will be taking an afternoon train, planning to arrive at around 4-ish. Will that work?

Quote
Unfortunately it will already be dark when you arrive......and probably raining  :P

I knew this going in. :D Not my first December in the UK. It'll be a lot like Portland, I'm sure.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on November 12, 2019, 04:14:46 PM
That's a date then. There is a realtime arrivals board website, so meeting at the station is great if you let me know which train you catch  :cool:
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on November 12, 2019, 04:19:31 PM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on November 12, 2019, 04:14:46 PM
That's a date then. There is a realtime arrivals board website, so meeting at the station is great if you let me know which train you catch  :cool:

:w00t: :yeah: :w00t:
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on November 12, 2019, 04:41:40 PM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on November 12, 2019, 04:14:46 PM
That's a date then. There is a realtime arrivals board website, so meeting at the station is great if you let me know which train you catch  :cool:

MY BAD!! Tonitrus corrected me. We're heading your way on Saturday, December 28 NOT Sunday, December 29. I'm sorry!!
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Valmy on November 12, 2019, 07:07:00 PM
Quote from: merithyn on November 12, 2019, 04:09:25 PM
Quote from: Sheilbh on November 12, 2019, 04:03:14 PM
30th should work for me :)

Anyone else?

Should probably think of somewhere indoors.

Berry will be joining us. ^_^

Oh good. Let her know we still love her.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on November 13, 2019, 02:06:58 AM
Quote from: merithyn on November 12, 2019, 04:41:40 PM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on November 12, 2019, 04:14:46 PM
That's a date then. There is a realtime arrivals board website, so meeting at the station is great if you let me know which train you catch  :cool:

MY BAD!! Tonitrus corrected me. We're heading your way on Saturday, December 28 NOT Sunday, December 29. I'm sorry!!

No problem, probably a livelier night in town.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: celedhring on November 13, 2019, 04:30:32 AM
Quote from: merithyn on November 12, 2019, 02:18:19 PM
Barcelona Meet-Up: December 13 -
Time: 1900
Place: TBD (Celed, suggestions??)

That's the traditional start of the Christmas season in Catalonia. Nowadays it starts way back in November, but I'll see if there's some event in town we can check out and then have dinner somewhere nearby.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: garbon on November 13, 2019, 04:33:48 AM
Quote from: merithyn on November 12, 2019, 04:09:25 PM
Quote from: Sheilbh on November 12, 2019, 04:03:14 PM
30th should work for me :)

Anyone else?

Should probably think of somewhere indoors.

Berry will be joining us. ^_^

I can put myself back as a tentative. I'm getting back at 1pm that day so should be free provided I don't feel like death warmed over.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on November 13, 2019, 11:26:06 AM
Quote from: celedhring on November 13, 2019, 04:30:32 AM
Quote from: merithyn on November 12, 2019, 02:18:19 PM
Barcelona Meet-Up: December 13 -
Time: 1900
Place: TBD (Celed, suggestions??)

That's the traditional start of the Christmas season in Catalonia. Nowadays it starts way back in November, but I'll see if there's some event in town we can check out and then have dinner somewhere nearby.

Funny. That's traditionally the start of the Christmas season in my home, too! :D That sounds lovely. The living nativity scenes also sounds amazing.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on November 13, 2019, 11:26:38 AM
Quote from: garbon on November 13, 2019, 04:33:48 AM
Quote from: merithyn on November 12, 2019, 04:09:25 PM
Quote from: Sheilbh on November 12, 2019, 04:03:14 PM
30th should work for me :)

Anyone else?

Should probably think of somewhere indoors.

Berry will be joining us. ^_^

I can put myself back as a tentative. I'm getting back at 1pm that day so should be free provided I don't feel like death warmed over.

:w00t: :hug:

It's been a decade or longer since I saw you last! ^_^
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: celedhring on November 13, 2019, 12:02:34 PM
Quote from: merithyn on November 13, 2019, 11:26:06 AM
Quote from: celedhring on November 13, 2019, 04:30:32 AM
Quote from: merithyn on November 12, 2019, 02:18:19 PM
Barcelona Meet-Up: December 13 -
Time: 1900
Place: TBD (Celed, suggestions??)

That's the traditional start of the Christmas season in Catalonia. Nowadays it starts way back in November, but I'll see if there's some event in town we can check out and then have dinner somewhere nearby.

Funny. That's traditionally the start of the Christmas season in my home, too! :D That sounds lovely. The living nativity scenes also sounds amazing.

Remind me when you were leaving? The Living Nativity Scenes are usually open on weekends.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on November 13, 2019, 01:48:22 PM
Quote from: celedhring on November 13, 2019, 12:02:34 PM
Remind me when you were leaving? The Living Nativity Scenes are usually open on weekends.

I fly out of Barcelona at 6am on Sunday, December 15.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: celedhring on November 13, 2019, 02:22:22 PM
Quote from: merithyn on November 13, 2019, 01:48:22 PM
Quote from: celedhring on November 13, 2019, 12:02:34 PM
Remind me when you were leaving? The Living Nativity Scenes are usually open on weekends.

I fly out of Barcelona at 6am on Sunday, December 15.

OK, just checked schedules and it would have to be Saturday 14th in the afternoon (they have shows starting at 18h pm, every 2 hours). Would that work, or did you have other plans? It would involve a 90 minute trip outside Barcelona.

If you want to check it out beforehand: https://pessebrecorbera.cat/?lang=es

There are many others, some of them closer, but they don't open until closer to Christmas day. The one in Corbera is one of the most famous, though.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on November 13, 2019, 02:34:03 PM
Quote from: celedhring on November 13, 2019, 02:22:22 PM
Quote from: merithyn on November 13, 2019, 01:48:22 PM
Quote from: celedhring on November 13, 2019, 12:02:34 PM
Remind me when you were leaving? The Living Nativity Scenes are usually open on weekends.

I fly out of Barcelona at 6am on Sunday, December 15.

OK, just checked schedules and it would have to be Saturday 14th in the afternoon (they have shows starting at 18h pm, every 2 hours). Would that work, or did you have other plans? It would involve a 90 minute trip outside Barcelona.

If you want to check it out beforehand: https://pessebrecorbera.cat/?lang=es

There are many others, some of them closer, but they don't open until closer to Christmas day. The one in Corbera is one of the most famous, though.

Sounds lovely. :) It does mean you're stuck with me for two days instead just our initially planned one. :)

Also, you all heard it here. If I go missing on or around my birthday, it's this celedhring guy that did it*. ;)



* I'm imaging my mom's face if I'd told her that I was going to Spain and getting into the car of some guy I've never met (in person) and driving out into the country. :lol:
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: celedhring on November 13, 2019, 02:45:34 PM
I don't drive, we'll take the bus!  :P
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on November 13, 2019, 04:22:51 PM
Quote from: celedhring on November 13, 2019, 02:45:34 PM
I don't drive, we'll take the bus!  :P

:lol:

Well that's safer. ;)
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on November 19, 2019, 08:31:09 PM
My blog for my trip is up:

https://roanaskitchen.blogspot.com (https://roanaskitchen.blogspot.com)
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on December 02, 2019, 11:10:07 PM
Euros: I'm packing for my trip. Sweater or hoodie?

To specify why only one, I'm limiting my packing as much as possible. The reason I'm thinking hoodie is because they're much more comfortable to sleep in, and I'm afraid that I'll be cold in the hostels.

And yes, I'm already packing.

FIVE DAYS AND 11 HOURS
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Oexmelin on December 03, 2019, 12:37:15 AM
I am not a euro (not even a dollar), but hostels can indeed be cold.

Also, on your blog, you indicate packing three light dresses, which I imagine are for night outs? Otherwise it may be a tad optimistic for December - but Spaniards can correct me. 

One piece of advice about European (or at least North European) winters is that they are very humid, and thus clothes can take a while to dry. You may be used to it because of the Pacific Northwest, but maybe good to keep in mind.

Lastly, I now shell out the extra euros for having cleaners take care of my laundry. That way I am not tied to the laundromat, and can visit the town.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Maladict on December 03, 2019, 01:00:11 AM
Make sure you know the PIN code of your credit card. Europe is a debit card kind of place.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Kaeso on December 03, 2019, 03:52:18 AM
Quote from: Oexmelin on December 03, 2019, 12:37:15 AM
I am not a euro (not even a dollar), but hostels can indeed be cold.

Also, on your blog, you indicate packing three light dresses, which I imagine are for night outs? Otherwise it may be a tad optimistic for December - but Spaniards can correct me. 

One piece of advice about European (or at least North European) winters is that they are very humid, and thus clothes can take a while to dry. You may be used to it because of the Pacific Northwest, but maybe good to keep in mind.

Lastly, I now shell out the extra euros for having cleaners take care of my laundry. That way I am not tied to the laundromat, and can visit the town.


Not a Spaniard, but I wouldn't pack the light dresses and take an additional pair of jeans instead. Especially if it is raining.

About the laundry, I feel you will be doing a lot of it. Either plan to spend some time at the end of your stay in Barcelona http://barcelona-home.com/blog/best-self-service-laundry-in-barcelona/ (http://barcelona-home.com/blog/best-self-service-laundry-in-barcelona/) because you will only be 3 days in Naples and if you need clean something there it sounds like you won't have much time.

About the camera, I feel that modern mobile phones offer enough picture quality for casual pictures. I would take a camera only if I intend to make more serious photo shootings.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: celedhring on December 03, 2019, 08:22:18 AM
Winter here is mild, but certainly not light dress mild.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on December 03, 2019, 11:36:22 AM
Each hostel that I'm in has laundry facilities, by design. I want to bring as few things as I can, which requires doing laundry at least every four or five days. I'm comfortable with that as a forced way to spend a night in. It'll be a good way to make sure that I catch up on my notes in each place, too.

The dresses are light, but not summer-weight and will be worn over leggings and turtlenecks. They also pack up easily and tightly but can be pulled out for an easy way to dress up on a night. I may end up just packing one, just the same, and instead pack a skirt and a couple of extra shirts instead. I really think just one pair of jeans is fine.

Now.... back to the sweater and hoodie dilemma... :)

Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: garbon on December 03, 2019, 12:10:24 PM
I think, even as a person from a cold place, you'll be cold with either one of those. Unless you plan to spend all day, everyday indoors.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on December 03, 2019, 12:38:08 PM
 :huh:

I'll be wearing a coat, too. I just meant to pack for the trip. As a layer.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Grey Fox on December 03, 2019, 12:40:38 PM
What's a sweater in this scenario?
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on December 03, 2019, 12:47:47 PM
Quote from: Grey Fox on December 03, 2019, 12:40:38 PM
What's a sweater in this scenario?

(https://jcashmere.r.worldssl.net/pub/media/catalog/product/cache/63088ccac661b176cd7a5d8d10e60f74/l/t/lt_grey_cashmere_button_front_cardigan_sweater_front_view.jpg)
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Grey Fox on December 03, 2019, 12:48:38 PM
:hmm:

Hoodie with zip or not?
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on December 03, 2019, 01:05:29 PM
Quote from: Grey Fox on December 03, 2019, 12:48:38 PM
:hmm:

Hoodie with zip or not?

Not.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Grey Fox on December 03, 2019, 02:00:41 PM
I vote sweater.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: garbon on December 03, 2019, 02:10:41 PM
Quote from: merithyn on December 03, 2019, 12:38:08 PM
:huh:

I'll be wearing a coat, too. I just meant to pack for the trip. As a layer.

I see. :D
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Barrister on December 03, 2019, 02:46:43 PM
The hood on a hoodie gets in the way if you're wearing a jacket over top.

Bring the sweater.

And if you're backpacking, don't bring two items when you can get away with one.  You might have room, but there's always the weight to be concerned about.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on December 03, 2019, 03:16:18 PM
Its all getting a bit technical; luckily we have shops in Europe if things go badly  :P
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: garbon on December 03, 2019, 03:51:54 PM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on December 03, 2019, 03:16:18 PM
Its all getting a bit technical; luckily we have shops in Europe if things go badly  :P


:thumbsup:
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on December 03, 2019, 04:38:06 PM
Quote from: Barrister on December 03, 2019, 02:46:43 PM
The hood on a hoodie gets in the way if you're wearing a jacket over top.

Bring the sweater.

That's not my experience, but I wear hoodies a lot so maybe I'm just more practiced. :D

Quote
And if you're backpacking, don't bring two items when you can get away with one.  You might have room, but there's always the weight to be concerned about.

This is exactly why I'm asking which to bring. :P
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on December 03, 2019, 04:39:14 PM
Quote from: Richard Hakluyt on December 03, 2019, 03:16:18 PM
Its all getting a bit technical; luckily we have shops in Europe if things go badly  :P

I'm planning to buy a good wool fisherman's sweater in Edinburgh. I had one from my first trip to London that the kids destroyed. I'm looking to replace it. :P

But Edinburgh is pretty far into the trip. :D
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on December 04, 2019, 12:21:12 PM
ohmygoohmygodohmygod!!

I just got my letter from the Vatican with approval for my ticket to be at Midnight Mass Christmas Eve with the Pope at St Peter's Basilica! Squeee!!!!

On top of that, a friend of mine - an executive librarian at the U of Georgia Law Library - is going to write a Letter of Introduction for me to see the St Cuthbert Gospel at the British Library! Along with about half a dozen other books from the high middle ages (1000-1300 CE). AND Brazen is probably going to join Tonitrus and I on our trip to the British Library!

I may die of excitement before I ever get to Europe!
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Oexmelin on December 04, 2019, 01:20:39 PM
When will you be at the British Library?
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: mongers on December 04, 2019, 01:21:17 PM
Quote from: merithyn on December 04, 2019, 12:21:12 PM
ohmygoohmygodohmygod!!

I just got my letter from the Vatican with approval for my ticket to be at Midnight Mass Christmas Eve with the Pope at St Peter's Basilica! Squeee!!!!

On top of that, a friend of mine - an executive librarian at the U of Georgia Law Library - is going to write a Letter of Introduction for me to see the St Cuthbert Gospel at the British Library! Along with about half a dozen other books from the high middle ages (1000-1300 CE). AND Brazen is probably going to join Tonitrus and I on our trip to the British Library!

I may die of excitement before I ever get to Europe!

:cool:  ...  :cool: ...  :cool: 

Uberly so.


Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Valmy on December 04, 2019, 01:49:20 PM
Damn. Meri is going to have the best Christmas ever.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Maladict on December 04, 2019, 03:48:13 PM
Quote from: merithyn on December 04, 2019, 12:21:12 PM
On top of that, a friend of mine - an executive librarian at the U of Georgia Law Library - is going to write a Letter of Introduction for me to see the St Cuthbert Gospel at the British Library!


OK, that is seriously cool  :cool:
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Oexmelin on December 04, 2019, 03:58:30 PM
Quote from: merithyn on December 04, 2019, 12:21:12 PMOn top of that, a friend of mine - an executive librarian at the U of Georgia Law Library - is going to write a Letter of Introduction for me to see the St Cuthbert Gospel at the British Library! Along with about half a dozen other books from the high middle ages (1000-1300 CE). AND Brazen is probably going to join Tonitrus and I on our trip to the British Library!

Just a few words of advice: unless your friend is personal friends with one of the curators, and is requesting a personal showing, chances are that this Letter of Introduction is only for you to have access to the manuscript reading room. You'll still have to register as a reader, and will be subjected to the restrictions on accessibility of the document - which especially for old, famous manuscripts, and digitalized manuscripts, can vary quite a bit.

In any event, I would recommend pre-registering before you leave: https://www.bl.uk/help/how-to-get-a-reader-pass

Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: garbon on December 04, 2019, 04:41:44 PM
I think she had said somewhere that she was already a reader but then I think that's only valid for 2 years so could need a re-up. I just joined the other weekend. :cool:
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on December 04, 2019, 04:57:50 PM
Quote from: Oexmelin on December 04, 2019, 01:20:39 PM
When will you be at the British Library?

December 30
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on December 04, 2019, 05:01:25 PM
Quote from: Oexmelin on December 04, 2019, 03:58:30 PM
Quote from: merithyn on December 04, 2019, 12:21:12 PMOn top of that, a friend of mine - an executive librarian at the U of Georgia Law Library - is going to write a Letter of Introduction for me to see the St Cuthbert Gospel at the British Library! Along with about half a dozen other books from the high middle ages (1000-1300 CE). AND Brazen is probably going to join Tonitrus and I on our trip to the British Library!

Just a few words of advice: unless your friend is personal friends with one of the curators, and is requesting a personal showing, chances are that this Letter of Introduction is only for you to have access to the manuscript reading room. You'll still have to register as a reader, and will be subjected to the restrictions on accessibility of the document - which especially for old, famous manuscripts, and digitalized manuscripts, can vary quite a bit.

In any event, I would recommend pre-registering before you leave: https://www.bl.uk/help/how-to-get-a-reader-pass

I've already registered as a reader (good until 24 Feb 2020). I've also sent a letter to the manuscript reading room as introduction, per the website's recommendation. I'll bring the letter from my friend with me, and she's also emailing the pdf to them. There's of course no guarantee that I'll have access to the book. I have, however, done everything I possibly can to try to make that happen.

It's the best that I can do. :)
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Oexmelin on December 04, 2019, 05:47:45 PM
Quote from: merithyn on December 04, 2019, 04:57:50 PM
Quote from: Oexmelin on December 04, 2019, 01:20:39 PM
When will you be at the British Library?

December 30

Too bad. I am leaving the 23. Otherwise, I'd have invited you to join me at the National Archives as well.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Oexmelin on December 04, 2019, 05:53:03 PM
Quote from: merithyn on December 04, 2019, 05:01:25 PMI've already registered as a reader (good until 24 Feb 2020). I've also sent a letter to the manuscript reading room as introduction, per the website's recommendation. I'll bring the letter from my friend with me, and she's also emailing the pdf to them. There's of course no guarantee that I'll have access to the book. I have, however, done everything I possibly can to try to make that happen.
It's the best that I can do. :)

:thumbsup:

That being said, if you are there, I often find that seeing any medieval illuminated manuscript "in the flesh" is always quite moving. So you could conceivably think of another manuscript (for instance, the Dialogue de la duchesse de Bourgogne a Jesus Christ by Nicholas Finet, or La Queste del Saint Graal) it may still be quite impressive to see.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on December 04, 2019, 08:06:13 PM
Quote from: Oexmelin on December 04, 2019, 05:47:45 PM
Quote from: merithyn on December 04, 2019, 04:57:50 PM
Quote from: Oexmelin on December 04, 2019, 01:20:39 PM
When will you be at the British Library?

December 30

Too bad. I am leaving the 23. Otherwise, I'd have invited you to join me at the National Archives as well.

:o

You couldn't have mentioned this when I was still in the planning stages of this trip?????? :mad:
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on December 06, 2019, 12:04:32 AM
Quote from: Oexmelin on December 04, 2019, 05:53:03 PM
Quote from: merithyn on December 04, 2019, 05:01:25 PMI've already registered as a reader (good until 24 Feb 2020). I've also sent a letter to the manuscript reading room as introduction, per the website's recommendation. I'll bring the letter from my friend with me, and she's also emailing the pdf to them. There's of course no guarantee that I'll have access to the book. I have, however, done everything I possibly can to try to make that happen.
It's the best that I can do. :)

:thumbsup:

That being said, if you are there, I often find that seeing any medieval illuminated manuscript "in the flesh" is always quite moving. So you could conceivably think of another manuscript (for instance, the Dialogue de la duchesse de Bourgogne a Jesus Christ by Nicholas Finet, or La Queste del Saint Graal) it may still be quite impressive to see.

Agreed. I've seen a number of illuminated manuscripts in my studies. The oldest so far was a 13th century gospel in The Newberry Library in Chicago. Interesting note: It had a painting of Jesus on the cross that looked insanely like it came out of Jesus Christ: Superstar. :lol:
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on December 09, 2019, 07:42:19 AM
I made it to Barcelona. I'm beat but feeling incredibly relaxed. I'll update the blog tonight, and post some pictures there.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Richard Hakluyt on December 09, 2019, 07:43:09 AM
Quote from: merithyn on December 09, 2019, 07:42:19 AM
I made it to Barcelona. I'm beat but feeling incredibly relaxed. I'll update the blog tonight, and post some pictures there.

The adventure begins  :cool:
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: celedhring on December 09, 2019, 08:12:42 AM
Great! See you tomorrow.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on December 09, 2019, 08:24:30 AM
Quote from: celedhring on December 09, 2019, 08:12:42 AM
Great! See you tomorrow.

Looking forward to it!
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: mongers on December 09, 2019, 08:43:20 AM
Quote from: merithyn on December 09, 2019, 07:42:19 AM
I made it to Barcelona. I'm beat but feeling incredibly relaxed. I'll update the blog tonight, and post some pictures there.

:cool:

Have a great time, looking forward to reading your blog.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Valmy on December 09, 2019, 10:13:48 AM
Quote from: merithyn on December 09, 2019, 07:42:19 AM
I made it to Barcelona. I'm beat but feeling incredibly relaxed. I'll update the blog tonight, and post some pictures there.

Yeah! I cannot wait to follow your adventures.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on December 12, 2019, 07:08:30 PM
Quick note for those who aren't in - or don't bother to read - The Back Room:

Here's my blog for this trip. :)

https://roanaskitchen.blogspot.com/
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Admiral Yi on December 12, 2019, 07:13:06 PM
You sure you want your real name out here, Ms. Kitchen?
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: crazy canuck on December 12, 2019, 07:25:46 PM
She will always be Meri to us
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on December 13, 2019, 07:23:07 AM
Quote from: Admiral Yi on December 12, 2019, 07:13:06 PM
You sure you want your real name out here, Ms. Kitchen?

Doesn't matter. You won't remember it anyway.  ;)
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Admiral Yi on December 13, 2019, 04:05:06 PM
 :D
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: mongers on December 21, 2019, 08:11:40 PM
Meri, I saw this map and thought of your:

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EMOl1GpXYAAf33y?format=jpg)

It might help during any transport strike?
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on January 02, 2020, 02:59:04 AM
Oh, that is helpful! Tonitrus and I walked 17 miles our first day in Paris, 8 miles yesterday, and today is looking like another 15+ mile day. But we've seen a bunch of stuff! :D
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Brazen on January 02, 2020, 05:44:27 AM
I shall make an attempt at The List (tm) from Monday, but at this point I can barely remember my own name. I'm sure Meri, Tonitrus, Sheilbh and garbon will chime in with any I've forgotten.

RH
Katmai
Seedy
Martinus
Syt
BB
Caliga
Duque
GF
Berkut
Fahdiz
Jaron
Norgy
Tamas
Ank
Lusti
Mono
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on January 02, 2020, 06:16:57 AM
Quote from: Brazen on January 02, 2020, 05:44:27 AM
I shall make an attempt at The List (tm) from Monday, but at this point I can barely remember my own name. I'm sure Meri, Tonitrus, Sheilbh and garbon will chime in with any I've forgotten.

RH
Katmai
Seedy
Martinus
Syt
BB
Caliga
Duque
GF
Berkut
Fahdiz
Jaron
Norgy
Tamas
Ank
Lusti
Mono

Mongers
Celedhring
Liep

I'm sure there were others. I'm pretty sure I'll be confusing those who came up with RH with those who came up in London.

Basically, assume you're included.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: mongers on January 02, 2020, 07:13:47 AM
Quote from: merithyn on January 02, 2020, 02:59:04 AM
Oh, that is helpful! Tonitrus and I walked 17 miles our first day in Paris, 8 miles yesterday, and today is looking like another 15+ mile day. But we've seen a bunch of stuff! :D

:cool:

The languish death march to end all languish marches.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on January 02, 2020, 07:20:35 AM
Quote from: mongers on January 02, 2020, 07:13:47 AM
Quote from: merithyn on January 02, 2020, 02:59:04 AM
Oh, that is helpful! Tonitrus and I walked 17 miles our first day in Paris, 8 miles yesterday, and today is looking like another 15+ mile day. But we've seen a bunch of stuff! :D

:cool:

The languish death march to end all languish marches.

Celedhring and I did roughly 17.5 miles my first day in Barcelona, so it's apparently how I'm going to begin and end my trip.  ^_^
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: mongers on January 02, 2020, 07:25:33 AM
Quote from: merithyn on January 02, 2020, 07:20:35 AM
Quote from: mongers on January 02, 2020, 07:13:47 AM
Quote from: merithyn on January 02, 2020, 02:59:04 AM
Oh, that is helpful! Tonitrus and I walked 17 miles our first day in Paris, 8 miles yesterday, and today is looking like another 15+ mile day. But we've seen a bunch of stuff! :D

:cool:

The languish death march to end all languish marches.


Celedhring and I did roughly 17.5 miles my first day in Barcelona, so it's apparently how I'm going to begin and end my trip.  ^_^

:D

Good grief that's a lot.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Brazen on January 02, 2020, 07:44:22 AM
I hardly had to stare at historical maps at all. There was limited exposure with Tonitrus at the British Library while was waited for Meri, but barely long enough to start twitching.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: celedhring on January 02, 2020, 07:55:59 AM
Quote from: mongers on January 02, 2020, 07:25:33 AM
Quote from: merithyn on January 02, 2020, 07:20:35 AM
Quote from: mongers on January 02, 2020, 07:13:47 AM
Quote from: merithyn on January 02, 2020, 02:59:04 AM
Oh, that is helpful! Tonitrus and I walked 17 miles our first day in Paris, 8 miles yesterday, and today is looking like another 15+ mile day. But we've seen a bunch of stuff! :D

:cool:

The languish death march to end all languish marches.


Celedhring and I did roughly 17.5 miles my first day in Barcelona, so it's apparently how I'm going to begin and end my trip.  ^_^

:D

Good grief that's a lot.

I "only" have 19 Km in my log for that day (12 miles), but Meri had been going at it before we joined up.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: The Larch on January 02, 2020, 07:58:08 AM
Quote from: Brazen on January 02, 2020, 07:44:22 AM
I hardly had to stare at historical maps at all. There was limited exposure with Tonitrus at the British Library while was waited for Meri, but barely long enough to start twitching.

Do you think of languishites when you see a historical map nowadays?  :lol:
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Brazen on January 02, 2020, 09:05:03 AM
Quote from: The Larch on January 02, 2020, 07:58:08 AM
Quote from: Brazen on January 02, 2020, 07:44:22 AM
I hardly had to stare at historical maps at all. There was limited exposure with Tonitrus at the British Library while was waited for Meri, but barely long enough to start twitching.

Do you think of languishites when you see a historical map nowadays?  :lol:
Yes! And you should have been on The List, sorry  :Embarrass:
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: The Brain on January 02, 2020, 09:06:23 AM
Quote from: merithyn on January 02, 2020, 06:16:57 AM
Quote from: Brazen on January 02, 2020, 05:44:27 AM
I shall make an attempt at The List (tm) from Monday, but at this point I can barely remember my own name. I'm sure Meri, Tonitrus, Sheilbh and garbon will chime in with any I've forgotten.

RH
Katmai
Seedy
Martinus
Syt
BB
Caliga
Duque
GF
Berkut
Fahdiz
Jaron
Norgy
Tamas
Ank
Lusti
Mono

Mongers
Celedhring
Liep

I'm sure there were others. I'm pretty sure I'll be confusing those who came up with RH with those who came up in London.

Basically, assume you're included.

I assume nothing.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on January 02, 2020, 10:27:23 AM
Last meetup for this trip.  Duque is meeting Toni and me on a bridge in the middle of a busy tourist area. What could possibly go wrong? :D
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Syt on January 02, 2020, 12:59:32 PM
Ask him to take you to the place where they play pétanque and sell beer from plastic bags. ;)
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: Duque de Bragança on January 02, 2020, 02:20:12 PM
Quote from: Syt on January 02, 2020, 12:59:32 PM
Ask him to take you to the place where they play pétanque and sell beer from plastic bags. ;)

That would have been yesterday.  :P
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on January 03, 2020, 12:13:11 AM
We went to a pub and had beer and conversation. It was a delightful evening.  :D
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: katmai on January 03, 2020, 12:24:25 AM
Quote from: Brazen on January 02, 2020, 05:44:27 AM
I shall make an attempt at The List (tm) from Monday, but at this point I can barely remember my own name. I'm sure Meri, Tonitrus, Sheilbh and garbon will chime in with any I've forgotten.

RH
Katmai
Seedy
Martinus
Syt
BB
Caliga
Duque
GF
Berkut
Fahdiz
Jaron
Norgy
Tamas
Ank
Lusti
Mono
Meri and Toni are in violation of NDA and can expect to hear from my lawyer shortly.
Title: Re: Meri does Europe - Dec 2019 edition
Post by: merithyn on January 03, 2020, 06:34:54 PM
Huh? :huh: