Ask me about Dulles Airport and I can give you every detail you need. How did I come upon this knowledge? If you spend from 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 P.M. in an airport waiting for your departure flight to Europe and upon your return spend from 2:30 P.M. to 10:00 P.M. in the same airport, you become very knowledgeable about that facility. Frankly, I am not enamored with it. I would have much rather have spent those hours at an airport such as in Minneapolis or Amsterdam. However, those long stays in Dulles were my fault as at the last minute we decided to fly from Columbus to D.C. rather than drive as originally planned. By the way, if you need plug-ins for your electronics, go to A Terminal Air France departure gates. They remain empty until late afternoon. Via the free internet I was able to update my webpages in my Journey 4 Health Now website, this website--Poetical Journeys, work on my novel, plus answer many emails. So the time was not wasted. Going and coming, Janice caught up on some of her sleep. I did the same on my return while waiting for the flight to Columbus. We had been up about 30 hours by then.

Once we boarded KLM for Amsterdam and then Prague the good part of trip began. KLM Dutch Royal Airlines is a wonderful one with friendly, helpful, and smiling flight attendants as well as reasonably good food. You also have many free entertainment options on the seatbacks. Schiphol (Amsterdam) Airport is a busy place with hundreds of food and shopping options. You will clear customs there. On the return to Schiphol we took advantage of the option of a private waiting lounge, Schiphol 43, which provided excellent food and internet service–all at no charge.

Upon arriving in Prague, we were met by Grand Circle Travel representative, Kristina, who also served as our program guide throughout the river cruise. This was our second trip with Grand Circle. In my estimation they provide the best overall service and value for the money. Everything possible is done to make your trip pleasurable. Kristina even called us several days before the trip to answer any questions we might have.

Tidbits of knowledge and observations: 1) I am sure most of you know this, but we told friends that our river cruise would start in Prague, Czechoslovakia. Czechoslovakia has not existed as a country for over eleven years. The country peacefully divided into the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Thus, we were going to Prague, Czech Republic. 2) While traveling in the Czech Republic you will use Krona and in Austria, the Euro - a bit of inconvenience but really no problem. Besides, it helps your math skills. 3) In both countries you can usually find English speakers, especially in metropolitan areas. 4) The Czechs are really trying to develop the tourism industry. Though at times reserved because of their history, they will be helpful and provide a wonderful touring experience. 4) When you cross the border from the Czech Republic to Austria, you immediately notice a change in farm layouts and improved standard of living. The Austrians have been doing the tourism business for quite awhile. You will see some increase in cost after crossing the border.

In the September and October issues, I will provide more information about the culture and destinations we experience. If you have questions, please contact me.