The Machinations of Danish History & Government
I dreamt last night about trying to arrange dinner with all of the living former Presidents. George H. W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and George W. Bush were on board. But Jimmy Carter sang a song about there being no way he'd...
Oh Copenhagen, How I Love Thee.
When I woke up this morning I had no idea where I was. As I stumbled out of bed I remembered when I stubbed my toe -- hard -- on the door jam of the bathroom. It seems like nearly every doorway in Denmark has a jam...
Believe it or Not, it’s Copenhagen
As soon as I landed in Copenhagen, I was ready to head to the National Museum. I'd read about its collection and the interesting history of Denmark that it celebrates. So, I hopped in a cab, checked into my room, and...
Reflections on Paris
My time in the first city of this RTW adventure is coming to a close. Ironically, as I write this, I'm hearing what I write in a French accent in my head. The city has gotten into my brains. I must be candid. Paris is...
The Grand Rising Ceremony
This morning, I went to Versailles. It was impressive, to be sure. Louis XIV built a hunting lodge on the spot in 1624/25 because of abundant game in the area. Like any man, he really wanted the ultimate man cave. And,...
Slow Down to Speed Up
Unless they're getting exercise - maybe on rollerblades - it seems like no one in Paris is in any real hurry. Even the police max out at about 25-30 mph. Perhaps it's because everything around them has been around for...
Strolling in Paris
I don't know if you're aware. But, here in France, they speak French. Before coming, I highly recommend doing one or more of the following (1) already know French, (2) learn it quickly, or (3) find a French-speaking...
London
During my recent trip to the United Kingdom, I tacked on an extra day in London. I love London. It's a better city, I think, than New York. The accents are so much more appealing. Plus, the history is incredible....
Americans in the United Kingdom
Now, I'm proud to be an American (where at least I know I'm free. And I won't forget the . . .) Sorry. Anyway, I already shared my personal guilt about being obnoxious in another country, however we Americans do have a...
US-UK Language Barrier
When I arrived in Birmingham, I checked into my hotel. Jetlagged. "Good morning. I have a reservation. My name is Brooks," I say confidently. She responds, "Welcome. Okay. Thank you. Is that Brooks with an A?" "Ahh....