Epilogue 10/13/2019

We have all returned home safely and recovered from our jet lag. In thinking about what to put in this segment of the blog I thought I would share my thoughts on European travel. But first I will share a few things we did on our last day in Prague. At the completion of our castle tour we returned to the old town and had a traditional Czech meal in a local restaurant. Linda and I had a meal for two that included an assortment of pork, beef, sausage, ham, duck, and vegetables. Harry and Amanda had chicken kabobs. We all had garlic soup, Cokes and Czech beer... a fitting way to end this trip. When we make these trips abroad, I try to get a haircut in the countries we visit. After lunch the ladies went shopping and Harry went with them. I went to the barbershop. The last thing Linda told me was "do not come back looking like you are still in the Army". I said "yes, Dear". When I got in the barber's chair, I told him I wanted a light trim on the sides, blocked in the back, and a little bit off the top. He nodded several times and said something in the Czech language. I did not have any idea what he was saying. A few minutes later, most of my hair was laying on the floor. I hope it grows back out before we go on our next trip....a lesson learned here. Afterwards, I met back up with Harry, Amanda, and Linda. Harry asked if I was trying for a new look. Linda did not say much. I said "honey, it will grow back".
We had to make one more stop. Linda saw a travel bag she wanted to purchase so we would have something to carry our stuff back to the USA. We returned home with more than we brought over. When I went into the store there was a little dog that belonged to the owner. He started barking and would not stop....a vicious little animal. He attacked my tennis shoelaces and latched onto them. I wanted to send the dog packing, but the owner was watching me with a stern look on her face. I did not want to make a bad impression on the lady as a visiting American, so I drug the little dog around the store. He never released me until I was able to make my exit.
Just know, their world does not revolve around us. They have their own language, their own traditions, their own culture. It is not that they don't speak English, you don't speak Hungarian or the Czech language. Their hotels are not like the Hilton Garden Inns you are used to. This is not the U.S. If you wanted it to be like the U.S., you should stay at home. Embrace the people, enjoy the cuisine, and have a great adventure.