Impressions - Week 4 and 5

The last 15 days have been spent in cities that were "behind the iron curtain" only a little over 20 years ago. The physical decay of city buildings and other infrastructure is very sad to see, especially in the historic cities of Prague and Budapest where you can only imagine the grandeur that once was. These two cities are also struggling through the current European recession. Tourist trade is most definitely down, and every day we witnessed empty restaurants and other tourist related businesses. As for Berlin, while the city seemed to have lots of hustle and bussle, the lack of old world charm is quite apparant. Hopefully the European Union's economy will turn around soon. 

On a brighter note, we have enjoyed the unique history, architecture and culture each city had to offer. I hope our photos and blog notes have helped to capture some of that. 

Parting photos

Berlin: I had no idea that Germans were such famous archeologists.

Prague:

Tourists come in all shapes and sizes:

Budapest:

The best views while dining:

What happens to you when there is too much dining: