Serbia: Week 2, KALEMEGDAN.

On Wednesday morning ("Sreda"), Benito woke up to a truly brilliant day in Serbia! After his half of a banana and 'kafa', Benito looked out the window while taking a shower in the bathroom to espy a man, taking in the day from his porch. Benito waved, but the man was too absorbed in the beautiful day to notice Benito. What struck him most was the peaceful nature of the moment, taking his shower. Truly God was smiling down on Serbia this day. Finishing up, Ivana was like, 'Catastropha!' If you were taking a shower in there, I was about to get super mad. But no, it was no problem, for he had only been in the tub for max two minutes. 'Hello' he had said to the Serbian student studying English 'How are you this day?' "Doing well; get dressed!" And Benito obeyed his orders, going and taking a half-shower. Please to take some pictures, said Ivana. But Benito had forgotten his camera :( Well, at least they were all enjoying the day. "Enjoy your coffee!" Benito had said to the Serbian student, and so she did. "Enjoy, enjoy!" exclaimed Ivana. And wrote it down for her student to learn.

And so to continue with the story, for they did not have to wait long for the bus, as it was there. Do you have your ticket? Oops. Must have left it at home along with the camera... Oh, well, buses in Serbia are like half-free anyway.... yeah. Whatever. They said "Vidimo se kasnije" to the Serbian student/ And Jovana is a very intelligent, pretty girl, just like Hermione Granger, for the record. But in any case, Benito continued to study his Serbian on the bus, learning how to say "See you later" and other such phrases such as this. Note to self: Buy Ivana a Christmas present. But to continue with the story... So they got off at their stop and that is rather fuzzy, but now I remember yes, it was near the McDonald's and Benito wants a hamburger (NOW!), but Anika's threatening to shoot him for this, so he shuts his mouth, and doesn't bank on the computer, for Ivana might shoot him. Oh, dear. But they went through the Chamber of Secrets and came upon Diagon Alley, from which point they passed through the Darkness and came upon a place of light where the sun was shining brightly and all the world was in a harmony with itself, and so was Belgrade at this moment. But enough of recollections fondly remembered well. They entered the Main Street where lots of shopping took place, including the buying of hair coloring, for indeed many a hair had been colored the previous night, and that's not all! For Benito engaged in such activities, as mentioned previously, and now is a blondie. Haha. But back to the story.... He found himself in a busy scene of lots and lots of Serbian girls, all looking at dresses and such things as this, and Benito was quite overwhelmed by it all, until Ivana found him once again and saved him from a cruel fate. Haha. Ok, well at least he survived all that shopping, lots of looking and not too much buying. But who's to judge?! Belgrade is shopping centrale!

After a long time or a short time, they came to the Serbian fortress, or Kalemegdan. This was quite a sight to see from a distance and they waited in line after having bought some tourist paraphanalia and Benito noticed a dog just laying there peacefully, just like he had seen from the bus. But enough of such pleasantries. They waited patiently (or not so much) for the light to change. Then embarked on a path of buying! Such trinkets were placed in front of them for easy access, and more and more rings and things and everything nice was there for the taking. What a fond scene it was, truly! I buy you this for Christmas, said Ivana. and so she did. Benito, in turn, bought some things for the sisters Ivana. and there was much rejoicing! Finally, after taking another card from the salesman, they came to the fortress. And Benito was pleased to find tennis courts just outside the fortification's walls. Wow! That is cool, thought Benito. And so it was. Truly. But Benito did not stop there. He continued through the doors of the fortress. He wondered how many wars had been fought on these very grounds and soon encountered the treasured tanks from the Serbian War Museum. How... pleasant! These must be some remnants from a Soviet past, but Benito continued on, through yet another gated passageway, Ivana snapping pictures as they went. there was a guard here as well, but he looked friendly enough, and they passed by without further inquiry. Such was the manner of their going. And then they encountered an open field with many different paths, all leading around to the walls of the fortress, such steep walls, and a level plain below, extending out to the water, the Sava and the Danube, the beautiful waters everywhere. And this, the place where the waters meet! Benito took in the scene there for a time to his heart's content and then moved past yet another set of guards to the platform below, where he went into a little cave, which was a lookout point for viewing the waters below, at this strategic position, all could be seen in four different directions. Benito imagined how it had been in the past with the Turkish invasions and these rivers serving as strategic points of landing upon the capital city. Belgrade, the last stand! Haha.

Then they surely came upon the remnants from a Soviet era, and the end of WWII. yes, these important men were remembered there. And there was much rejoicing (!), yet again. I wonder how Sanja is enjoying her time in Italy? Indeed, Benito had met up with her the previous night, meeting at RED Square, that is, the central square called the Square of the Republic, which features a mounted horseman. No sooner had Benito arrived (after being yet again paranoid about the many policemen he encountered, but nothing happening badly), then Sanja showed up and they went off together to Globaltrekkers. It was quite pleasant and the rain came down all around inside. Well, at least, you could hear it, and indeed, there were a few drops coming down on Benito's head. So much so that he had to move his chair. But there was this other American, sitting with some Serbs, who was studying Serbian truly, for then a couple of Seriban girls came and sat beside him, looking over his papers, critiquing. And Benito wondered how to say "Good luck!" in Serbian. But then Sanja's friends showed up and there was much rejoicing. It was made evident that there was indeed a piano here and Benito would one day play it, that was for shizzle. But for now, he was content to sip his Gluh-wein, err, mulled wine. But only one glass! They talked about a range of different subjects, including teaching in Japan and other interesting topics of discussion in Serbian, for truly I tell you, you shall speak Serbian so that everyone can understand you. And so it was coming into town from that faraway monastery that was not to be found. Indeed, Benito had found some sort of basketball court, but no monastery. But that was cool, for he found his bus after a lady was like, here is the stop, and speaking only in Serbian so that everyone can understand, as the saying goes, and she indicated that Benito should depart the bus at that time, so that is what he did. And another nice Serb instructed Benito that he take the bus with them downtown. And that is what they did. They waved goodbye and so he was there. It was familiar to him at that time, as it was the following day. But back to that night where they embraced and said goodbye, promising to meet again in Japan, for that was quite a special occasion for them all. And so it was, and so it was. But back to the story....

Ivana was getting a bit tired, as was Benito, for their time at Kalemegdan was coming to an end. Benito had seen a man walking his dog from the upper ramparts and watch-point, and now he saw a man writing on a bench, and envied him for that poetic scene. Indeed, Serbia has many poets and great writers of note, including but not limited to one author of "The Bridge over the Drina". Fast forward to another time of shopping, stopping in various stores, including 'time out', brands from California. Indeed, Benito was a 'Lo Ridda, so he naturally gravitated to these brands. But buy it right away he did not, for Benito was not an "impulse shopper". Instead, be bought a belt with 'che' on the front, passing up the jeans in the "thrift store" and deciding not to gamble that night, for fear of what the trouble he might cause, but telling himself that he would indeed visit the Casino on the river one day. And all rejoiced for they were to see Avatar the following night, which may seem like a movie about these computer-animated creatures that can fly, but is really about race. Just a thought put out by one Hakim Thompson on F/B. Peace and good will for this very Merry Christmas! And special thanks to all of Benito's loyal fans. Hvala!

Serbia: More Adventures in the Shower!

So Benito got really sick over the weekend, starting on Thursday with a sore throat, and progressing into a full-blown cold (luckily not swine flu, but the second wave is coming!), so he did not experience the night-life in Belgrade, but that was OK, for he got to dance at home and get used to his hosts there. Now what could he do, but lay in bed, so that was what he did, as the girls (his new Serbian "sisters") took care of him like a king. For that is what Benito wished to be: the next King of Serbia. Haha! Ivana made him tea and bought the medicinal soups to be administered, waiting on him hand and foot, while Anika and Jovana did the cooking. Soon enough, Benito was on his feet again, alive and kicking, dancing the night away... Serbians know how to have a good time! Haha. That is good. Water clubs on Friday! Whoop whoop.
Wait til we hit that up, yo!

But seriously there was an incident which bears remembrance which is that Benito was shat on on Friday ('Petak'). May it be remembered that even he was shat upon, and may it be recorded in the annals of history forever more. Such was it that his Serbian compatriots were very much jealous of this fact (it is indeed good luck!) and said so much as they left the Nike outlet store en route to another Athletic's store where Benito tried on some basketball shoes but did not buy, for the lady was like, "yo, those are some ugly-ass shoes" and Benito was like, "Thanks, lady." So then they went to church and lit some candles, upper for the living, downer for the dead, and so did he light a candle in that hallowed place for one Craig Eder whose soul surely resides in heaven at this time. Let it be recorded for posterity that e'en these candles were placed underneath the icon for Jesus Christ in accordance with the customs for Christmas.

Then they went on their way to the store (with a little impromptu snowball fight!)where Benito bought it out for shizzle! What a scene, trying to buy tomatoes, which involved weighing them and put a special tag on the bag. With some assistance, Benito got his tomatoes and beer and made for the register, after picking up some aftershave. (Tiger Woods be the man for shizzle my nizzle!) Then they made for home where more and more soup was consumed and Benito tucked himself delicately into bed, but not before doing some F/Bing and such and sundry, as Ivana played at DJ. That night was surely eventful as Sasha called and his friend wanted to use the bathroom, so Ivana obliged. "We are now officially a public toilet!" she proclaimed, and so they were. "You should charge next time, Benito!" Haha. "Welcome to Serbia!" said the friend. So that was quite an eventful evening.

The next day Benito was worse and stayed in bed the whole day, just getting up briefly to open the window and take a shower. When he got in the tub, he switched on the radio on his cell phone and was about to turn on the shower head (which had somehow broken since his last use) when the bathtub started "peeing" on him. In all fairness, it was simply the water from the laundry machine, but boy was it cold! Benito then started the shower hoping to put some warm water on the affected area and directed the shower head onto his feet where the cold water was coming out. It stopped. Benito had set his timer so as not to use up all the water (an unfortunate incident had occurred in which he had done just that, but no matter, one learns from his mistakes), and when the time was done and the alarm went off, the cold water started coming out again and Benito was then like "Abandon ship!" and got out of the shower as quick as lickety split. He worked on his journal for a time and read. Luckily, he had the Serbian sisters to keep him company while he was sick and recovering. Again, they catered to his every need. And God saw that this was good.

Sunday was more of the same with visitations by certain Serbian friends. Quite pleasant, really, but hardly eventful. In any case, Benito caught up on his reading until Anika asked him to show her a few moves, so up he got and they all started to dance. Jovana's BF caught on to the towel and they did the traditional dance, going from side to side. Benito was a natural, by all accounts. Another night of party in Serbia, but more to come on this regard...

Serbia: Day Four!

That afternoon headed out the troops for to report at the Police Station and make known what was to come! In there was another scene from Kafka's novels. People waiting in line for who knows what. It reminded Benito of the DMV back home. Oh, my! Well, at least they didn't have to wait, for sure enough, Ivana found out that they needed to be elsewhere, just next door. So away they went back outside and around the corner. There was some more Serbian spoken in hushed tones and the policeman indicated that they ought to fill out some form. So fill out the form they did and returned it as asked. Unfortunately, it could not be done, for Ivana was not the owner of the household. Oh, well. So off they went again into the snow. What's to be done! They headed away. They could deport me? Well, that's the truth. I'm thinking, said Ivana. And that's all she wrote. So they headed for the next place, noting the snowy weather all around. There was some large department store across the street, but Ivana knew where the best mall was. And that's where they went later, but for now, more bus riding in this never-ending story. You know your way around, said Ivana, so you can go around by yourself now. Sure! Benito said. Whatev's. Departing the bus, they came to the next corner, and there appeared suddenly Ivana's sister, Jovana. Hello, Jovana! So off the three of them went on another adventure in Belgrade. To that hallowed place, the Bohemian quarter!

Benito followed behind, looking in the little cafes scattered here and there. What you gonna do?! This is where the poets and playwrights come, exxplained Ivana. Ok, said Benito. They stopped to take some pictures there in that place, and Benito noted the Stella Artois above the door, promising himself that he'd come back for a pint at some point. One beer, ok. Two beers, ok. Three beers, not so good. Beer before liquor, never been sicker. Rakkia before beer, you're in the clear! hahaha. After a few more photos, they continued on their merry way, past more hang-outs and outdoor cafes, until crossing the street they arrived at the Little Bay Restaurant. Benito was betting that they had a piano, and he was not far off. They had an electric piano. So, so. Immediately, Benito asked to play in this, the restaurant near the National Theatre. All over the walls were painted paintings of classical quality and opera music sounded over the loudspeaker. This was a good point about this piano: it had a great sound speaker. It was electric, but what you gonna do? First, Benitoo asked where the bathroom was so that he could warm his hands, eventhough they were already warm. Then coming back, he sat down and they silenced the overhead music for his benefit so that he would have the mastery over the music. Benito had thought to play the Debussy first, but then elected for the Beethoven, as they had been so nice as to silence the overhead music. So, Benito the pianist commenced his performance in the restaurant. It wasn't perfect, but Benito wasn't trying to be perfect. He was simply stretching his fingers and seeing what the effect might have on the people gathered there. It was quite the experience to play there in that place!

That afternoon they feasted on such a feast as was fit for Kings! Haha. Ivana and Benito shared the El Grande Guapo portion and Jovana had some other chicken dish. It was quite nice: the girls were having lemonades and Benito elected for the zizzy water. We must do this again sometime! said Benito, and so they would, four days later (at least, that was Benito's prediction). In Serbia, we eat like kings! It's very cheap here. In fact, it's so cheap that no matter what you do, you can't spend more than $4, as hard as you try. True, Benito had spent close to $15 on an icon at Sava's, but that was all. His gloves he purchased on the street for an affordable 10 cents. Hey, even 50 cent could get along in the city! What a drag! And that's what they did later on: drag on cigarettes, but more on that later!

The doors opened wide for the guests to depart, just as if you were exiting the theater and their waitor said to Benito, "That was a wonderful performance." And so it had been, and Benito was glad thereby as they went past some more Serbian Republic buildings and the National Theater. At that point, Jovana took her leave and went off in another direction, leaving Ivana and Benito to fend for themselves. Well, that is what you have to do in Belgrade at least: fend for yourself! And so was it another successful venture among the streets of Belgrade, and so did they take in the sights, although Ivana had seen it all before... They picked up a bus nearby another cafe and took that to another McCafe, where Ivana had a hot-chocolate, which was also Benito's favorite, but Benito got an espresso instead.

Suddenly Anika appeared and there was much rejoicing. They talked for a time, then went on their merry way to a scheduled appointment about exchanges abroad, at which Benito pleasantly slept. Ivana had expressed her fear of elevators from her time as a small child and this carried forth from that day. But no matter, she was brave. So on they went to catch the next bus to the mall. There Benito bought a new sweater. Such a nice mall it was, and Benito felt like breaking out to the hip-hop music, but refrained lest it be taken the wrong way.>> Ivana had an appointment, but promised they would come back again for the winter boots. At this point, Benito had a pair of hiking boots that he had picked up on his journeys to the west coast.

Thus ended Day Four in Serbia. Oh yes, and the girls, as always, were playing "that game": dice. Haha. Benito has yet to indulge in such trivial pursuits, but maybe one day in the future, as in not at all, but he does not judge... ;) Peace!

Third DAy: Serbia ("The Holy Day") and (more) Shopping!

Woke up in the morning from the late night of F?Bing to greet the pigeons ("GOLUB") once again on my window sill. The snow was covering everything, making it very white here in Serbia! Well, what can I say? It's a "Winter Wonderland"! So I sing the song, walking along, walking in a "Winter Wonderland". There was a call from Ljubica; a special Serbian sandwich was consumed; and some violent television programs. Sometime later in the afternoon, Benito took the bus into town to the holy place of all in Serbia, Saint Sava! It is the largest Orthodox Church in all of Serbia and what a sight to behold. It is something like Aya Sofia in Istanbul. Benito approves of this message.

Leaving the crowded bus once again, Benito found himself at the stop light before crossing the tracks and entering the holy site. He stopped to take a photograph from a distance where little boys and girls were playing together. Suddenly from behind there appeared some Serbian police. Benito had been warned by Ivana: "Don't speak English near the police!" Benito was afraid, so he shut his eyes and counted to ten. When he opened them, they were gone! After a few more pictures, Benito entered inside. The place had been under construction and had been damaged in the bombings, so it was some site to behold, with large concrete ceiling and icons everywhere. Benito passed by the small shops, making the sign of the cross in the Orthodox style and kissing the icons. Then coming around the side passageway, he came upon a side chapel or place of worship. There were people here, some lighting candles, others kissing icons. Benito stood there for awhile, taking in the scene, then after awhile standing there observing, Benito did as the Serbians did and went up to the middle icon, making the sign of the cross. Which shoulder was it? Left or right? Benito observed carefully and carefully made the sign of the cross from right shoulder to left, then chest, then lips, and finally to the floor. Then he hit up the Virgin Mary, kissing the cloth below the icon. Suddenly there appeared the Orthodox priest, hurrying in from the cold. The whole church, you see, was open to the weather outside and an urn burned nearby yielding warmth. Benito, however, stood by another young lady so that he could better observe when to do the crossing of oneself. A choir formed nearby and started to chant. Benito had found himself as part of a service and had no choice but to attend, so he did his best to follow the rituals. An elder lady went around kissing icons as the service progressed, making the sign and singing along in a low murmur. She struck Benito as being very devout Orthodox. Benito, on the other hand, while he had no idea what they were singing, hummed along nevertheless and followed the signing of the cross. He also noticed that people, after kissing the icons, were petting something next to it. He did not want to stick out like a sore thumb in the presence of these fellow Serbians! Especially with the guard behind the glass. One foul move, and... He thought himself to be doing a pretty good job, however, and when the priest moved around with the incense, he turned his body in the direction of the priest and achnowledged him as he passed by crossing himself at that time, just like he had done in the Russian Orthodox Church back home. When the service finished, Benito moved to acknowledge the other icons. (NB: Ivana has just found a perfect Serbian restaurant! But back to the story...) He kissed one to the right of the "high altar" and moved to kiss the one to the left, but then another lady moved in to do the same, and then the priest, boxing out poor Benito, who had prepared himself with money to put in the slot. The Orthodox Serbians were not petting the icons... they were putting money into the slot! But, as noted, the priest was there to bless a woman, kneeling down by that particular icon, so there was nothing for it but to wait and see. So wait Benito did. For awhile, at least, until it became apparent that the priest would be taking quite a bit of time. So, Benito found himself another suitable icon, kissed and "petted" it, and went on his way. He stood there from the back, observing the ceremony for a time, as others filtered in, lighting icons and witnessing this ritual. Perhaps he was admonishing her for her sins, or performing some sort of exorcism: Benito could only guess! After a long time or a short time, Benito left the sanctuary and made for the exit, but not before buying a holy icon in the shape of St. Sava itself, which will be a nice present for his kitchen back home.

Exiting the church, Benito made his way through the snow around the side as the bells were ringing outside, wondering where was the National Library. Benito was about to ask a lady passing by where it was, but then noticed the police station nearby and decided against it. Benito figured that they might be able to hear his English within a 10 km radius of where he was speaking. And it was too cold to spend the night in jail (!), so Benito kept silent, and also kept his cool, moving around the side of the adjacent, dark building, wondering if this was indeed the National Libary. He come upon an entrance, but it was not what he was looking for, so he continued onward. Jovanna had told him that the library was under repair and there was indeed another building nearby under repair, but how many buildings in Serbia are under repair?! As Benito could make out from a distance, it was not the National Library. So, Benito continued along, passing by some kids who were sledding. At this point, Benito did not know what to do. To go left or right, that was the question. Benito spotted a statue in the distance nearby that looked like some remnant from a Stalinist past, and decided to make for it. A dog came up to Benito's side and the owner called it back with strict words. Other children were playing 'King of the Mountain' nearby the statue when Benito approached it from the back, and people huddled along in the cold. A few people were taking pictures of the statue and the temple behind, but Benito paid them little heed. He gave them a wave, but lest they be Soviet conspirators with the police, he did not engage with speech! His picture taking at an end, Benito made for the Apotheka, desiring of some dental floss. But how to get in?? The door he tried found himself in a small grocery store! Argghhh. So, Benito exited and tried again, but try as he might, he just could not find it. He felt like "K", searching for the entrance to the castle. Finally, like his quest for the National Library, he just gave up and headed for the bus where he would wait for an eternity, buying a magazine to ask for directions while another cop strolled on by. Heavens! How long for bus #78?! But bus # 78 it was, and come it did finally! AFter twenty buses marked #48 and several #33. Oh, and another thing! This bus station was like "make-out central". It seemed like every guy with his girl was making out at the bus stop, and Benito was sure to notice this point. Hmmm.... (if only.)

When Benito got to his final destination, there was Ivana coming up from behind. Oh, what a pleasant sight to see all that snow around the home sweet home. A group of kids was playing soccer next to their building and the ball landed close to Benito. Benito flashed them the 'peace sign' and continued on his merry way.

What do you get for a Klondike bar? These were some of the thoughts running through Benito's head that night as he played Happy Acquarium on his F/B, successfully mating two of his virtual fishes. But enough of these children's games! Time for Serbia: Day 4!

First Day: SERBIA

I write this as I sip on some Serbian beverage of choice, a special black coffee. MMmmmmm... stong drink. Rather like sludge, but hey, must put hairs on one's chest! But that's not all. On my first night in Serbia I went shopping and bought nothing. Zilch. Zero. Natta! That was an accomplishment in itself, as I tried on different Lambswool sweaters, but I need the zip down kind, said I! So off we went to the next shop, a bookstore to look for English books. There we found all the Travel Books one could hope for, and I'm wondering about Cyprus. Ivana's like: Just do it! So now I wonder about that, as Turkey is in "civil unrest" (!) Then we went and had donuts and made it a night. Nightclubs seem to be all the rage, especially on the water, which brings me to Serbia: Day 2!

Custom Search

Got up bright and early and put on my running shoes. Ivan's like: Ben, it's too cold for running. Just walk! So I walk down John Kennedy St. in this, the "nice" neighborhood. And it struck me as well right when I got off the plane. Ivana: Yes, we have dogs. And so they do! All over the damn place, just walking down the street, minding their own business. Thankfully the ones going around are of the smaller variety. The one a disturbed coming into the apartment I mistook at first for a cat! But in any event, there were the cannines, indulging themselves on some bones or something. And even the crows, one large one sitting on a car, taking the meat off the bone. My, oh my, thought I, what have a gotten myself into this time! But that was all one, for the river was soon to be found, lying only 15 min. walk away and yes, there were joggers at this hour of the morning in this cold. Joy! And jog Benito did down the thoroughfare where little white cars scooted on by and the glory of the Danube was there for all to see! Past the Casino Benito went, promising himself to spend perhaps 100 euro in there, which is roughly 1,000,000 or so dinar. Yeah, I'm a rich man! In any case, bought some bananas from the stand on the way back, after taking in the river and the ducks and the dog fights going on nearby. Not properly, just running around and barking and yelling going on, so that bystanders stopped to watch. And there was some structure that looked like a castle that Benito mistook at first glance for a skateboarder park and some statue that may have been a remnent of some Soviet past, but these little houses on the water. Cafe's and such were really quite nice to take a date. (Maybe Ivana and her sister!) But in any case, this was the first scouting expedition. A man spoke to Benito in Serbian, but Benito paid him no heed, having vowed to disengage from the homeless, as he can help everyone with a dime every time and again. Was he really asking for directions? Nobody knows, but Benito was not getting involved this time around.

Coming back to the house, he was surprised to find his shower was a handheld one in all cases. Benito was astounded, forgoing the nice-sized shower back in Germany, but he would make do! There was also a large water heater right above the faucet, which certainly did make the water warm for all of ten minutes, which was enough to run a nice bath for himself. Soon he was enjoying himself in it. Then Ivana's sister woke up and they enjoyed some coffee together as Benito explained his literary ambitions, as well as his plans to take over the world! (One woman at a time...) But in any case, it was quite pleasant, and then Benito showed her his college website and they played domino's, then chess. Ivana's like: You could just do that at home! Well, maybe not with my sister, but still. Well, they did get out after a time and saw the great Orthodox church in all its glory. Then they went to a birthday party and Benito learned his first words in Serbian: "Sredah Rodendah!" Happy Birthday! And there was much celebration with Serbian hip-hop music playing in the background. Benito bobbed his head to the music, much to the delight of all in attendance. So that was that. They ate their special Greek cake and departed in fine fashion. (Did I mention that it was snowing?) The snow continued to fall.>> After another crammed ride on the (free) bus/ tram ride, they arrived at their respective destinations: Ivana to teach a small little girl and Benito back home. So completed day #2.

Mondschau und Bad Neunahr

"Why go to München when you can go to Mondschau?" That was the question Benito asked himself when he got out of the car again at this quaint little town. It was quite picturesque! The little rivers wound their way around down the hill and the castle sat all lit up on top of the hill to the east. Benito was planning his trip to the east to arrive shortly! But for now he was content to listen to the waters and count his blessings. This time in Mondschau they approached from the south and immediately came upon the Christmas tree. Benito was struck by that sense of deja-vous one encounters from time to time, but this time the notion was well-founded, having depth to it, for not long before had Vicki bought a certain hat which Thorsten had worn in the Greek restaurant where Benito had supposedly spoken the language, but nothing looked familiar when staring at the paper napkin next his beer! Oh, well, another time.

So, observing the orchestra atop the nearest building, braving the cold, they continued along, stopping briefly to take some photo's and get a good look at the tree. They peeked inside the hotels and little shops, but did not go in just yet. They were afraid of spending too much of course, or at least Benito was apprehensive, having spent €300 in one day in Aachen. But that was important for him, for he was about to enter real winter conditions in the distant East in Serbia! It was quite a scene. And Benito recognized some of the shops from his earlier visit, or thought he did at least, and then he was sure, for coming along they came upon that bridge where the Seiß's had stopped to sip their Gluh-wein. That was the clincher. And there was the church. But this time they did not stop there for the church was not open. Instead they continued to the end of the road and looked at some gloves and hats, for winter was coming on fast! But nothing to their liking did they find, and instead, played some kind of children's games at the nearest stand, but could not get their heads around it, though demonstrated perfectly by the salesman. So, they did not get that, but Benito found himself a nice little house to poke his head into, which was rather like a Swiss chalet, but declared vy Van to be most certainly German. Then they feasted on potatoes and all was right in the world, as they sipped their Gluh_wein. Yum! Don't tell ma and pa! Well, it's only a glass of Gluh_wein afterall. So they did sip on it. And went their way, checking on the price of a room for the night, which was €72 for two. Too expensive was the declaration of the night, but the cheese was not, and hwo smelly it was! And they sampled the local schnitzel, finding it to be a bit salty... No matter, for there was a hat stand just down the way, specializing in American brands made especially for Germany, but that did not convince 'El Benito', and so he went his way, vowing to find a real German cap. He already had plenty of mugs at this point, but what he really wanted was a Bavarian coat, and so he made his pledge.

Coming around into the wine country, they made for the Roman baths. These were special and cost a lot. But they just made note of the decorations and went their way. It was special, indeed, with streamers and apples and cones dangling like pendulum's and special classical music playing on the bridge, serving more Gluh-wein. They made their way to the end of the bridge and went into the Martin Luther Church there at the end where there was some kind of choir rehearsal going on. Benito could tell the churh's affiliation by noting the little projected screen and then he knew that they were indeed evangelical, which he rather fancied following his sojourn at Middlebury College's 'Christian Fellowship'. No need to fret, he did not stay long, only to snap a picture of one Martin Luther, and then continued on his merry way, past the jewelry stand, and stopped for another sip of wine before he made his debut in the nearby hotel, which was not known for it's splendid piano, for there was no one playing. After a time, they were granted permission and Benito assumed the position. But the piano seat was not up to par, and so Benito's playing was neither good nor bad, and was deemed similarly to not be quite up to par. Thusly, the man in typical German manner said, "Please to play the first movement and not the third, as the third movement needs more work. Thank you very much indeed!" But Benito did not know the first movement. He could not as yet play by ear... So, instead he played the Debussy. This was greeted with a courtesy, but a request that perhaps it was time to give it a rest, so Benito held his head high and exited the premise with a quick nod to the hotel staff. He would work on the 1st movement.

Then they went to the German baths......

But first, they stopped in the Casino, which used to be used for dance parties, but now had hardly anyone inside. Oh, well, another time. This was not Benito's first encounter with the baths and he was looking forward to it. He could smell the chlorine right away. Changing, he left everything in his locker and continued towards that large edifice which contained the hot tubs and the pools, including the outdoor one, which was rather cool, and the mist drifted off the surface of the water as if they were in Iceland. They tried everything for one hour's time, going in the waters and then in the hot tub, and then back in the pool. And that was how it went, until it was time to go and Benito made his way to the showers where he took a warm bath, relieved himself, and got changed. Home again, home again, singing all the way! It had been a good weekend overall and now Benito was looking forward to more piano playing back at the home base and more chocolate parties, which they celebrated on Sunday, while watching CNN and playing more piano at the cafe's where Polish men appreciated the Chopin music and tried to hit on the mentor, but to no avail. And Dana Horakova's book was searched for a not found, but there was plenty of Chinese food to go around and a beer was drunk in Euskirchen in the bar, served up by a middle-aged bartender who liked like she could use a pick-me-up. But no matter, for they were on their way out without looking back and Benito was outside looking at fake Rolex's, but knew he could prob's get a better deal in NY, so they left, stopping briefly at the Backerei, which Benito often mistook for a 'Backpacker's Hostel', but no matter for Benito was headed to cooler clime's....

Next stop: Serbia. Hooray!