#Fun times with Funiculars

[trainsinanime]

Randomly, some more locations I want to see appear in Miraculous Ladybug:

Centre Pompidou.

Versailles. I just think the wide open spaces would be interesting.

Musée des Arts et Métiers. Throw ancient weights and measurements at people! Build a trap using some of the world's oldest aluminum! Travel quickly on the museum's built-in historic railway! Run someone over with Nicholas Cugnot's steam tractor (the true first car in any sense of the word, from 1769)! Swing around on the Foucault pendulum!

Montmartre, but specifically only the steps from Abesses station to the surface. I just want to see Marinette get out of breath from running them up and down, that would be funny.

Actually, speaking of steps in Montmartre, the staircase that they threw John Wick down five times in John Wick 4 would also be fun, especially if they include the funicular that's right next to it.

Châtelet-Les Halles.

That one road near the Moulin Rouge that somehow has three model railroad stores basically next to each other. Do they belong together? Is there some drama there? What's the story?

[q-one]

Here is one I made some time ago, this is my take on the Skarloey funicular. In this version, the wheelhouse and both furniture cars are alive. It also has three stations, one in the top, one in the bottom and one in the middle where both funicular cars meet in the switch, but it isn't used that much.

Also note the box-cab electric and the tram, I did them for fun

[evannakita]

I made a crossword puzzle!

It's June 24, 2024, and I'm the constructor of today's daily crossword on Puzzmo! It's my first-ever published crossword, and I'm extremely excited for the public to check it out!

Below the cut, I've written out some fun tidbits about the puzzle and the process of making it. That being said, SPOILERS follow—only read further if you've already completed the puzzle!

Hi again, I hope you had a fun time solving the puzzle! I certainly had a fun time constructing it. I’m incredibly grateful to Brooke for organizing Puzzmo's Open Submission Week, for giving me a second chance to submit after the theme of my first submission wasn’t a good fit for Puzzmo, and for helping me throughout the process of theming, filling, cluing, and hinting.

This puzzle began with the idea of using a diagonal to spell out something that actually is diagonal. As a public transit enthusiast, I’d initially thought of [FUNICULAR]. But the idea quickly expanded with the decision to also include horizontal and vertical answers corresponding to horizontal and vertical things. And since [ELEVATOR] was by far my favorite possible vertical answer, that left [ESCALATOR] as the obvious choice for the diagonal. Initially, I’d planned [CONVEYOR] for the horizontal answer, but Brooke pointed out that conveyors typically aren’t used to carry people the way escalators and elevators do. The next option I proposed was [TRAVELATOR], but I ended up liking [CORRIDOR] more, because I wanted the puzzle to have diagonal symmetry if possible.

Already, I had a ton of constraints for filling the grid—each letter of [ESCALATOR] had to intersect not one but two other answers, which would have been tricky even before adding in two other theme answers and diagonal symmetry. So I ended up spending countless hours testing out possible grid layouts in order to try to get a good fill. At first my idea was for all three theme answers to intersect at the bottom right, but I chose the current layout to represent how escalators and elevators don’t actually go between the same two points, meaning that when a train station is designed around escalators; [ELEVATOR] users are forced to also use a [CORRIDOR] to cover the horizontal distance. (Here in NYC, that makes for inconvenient wheelchair access to the fancy new platforms at Grand Central Madison, and it also means the planned accessibility upgrades at the Broadway Junction subway transfer will be a massive undertaking.) I personally find designing efficient train station layouts to be a lot of fun, and so I greatly enjoy the game STATIONflow, and I thought it’d be appropriate to shout it out in this puzzle’s title!

I did end up eventually managing to get a fillable grid (thanks to Ingrid and Spread The Wordlist—oh hey, yet another thing Brooke deserves major kudos for!), but due to all my self-imposed restrictions I had very little flexibility in what the non-theme answers would be, meaning I was stuck with some tricky ones like [SIDE A] and [ALDIS]. But honestly, I think the limited flexibility made cluing more fun than it otherwise would have been, since I now had the challenge of finding fun clues for answers I didn’t pick. I got to revisit some happy memories in 4-Across and 18-Across, I got to shamelessly plug my DeviantArt in 11-Down, I got to shout out an incredible activist in 19-Across, and I got to be unreasonably proud of myself for coming up with 10-Across. Some of my original clues were too long and confusing for Puzzmo (I was slightly sad to shorten my original description of a [T BAR] as a “low-budget chairlift alternative that’s basically an anchor that hooks around your butt and pulls you up a hill”), but Brooke was a tremendous help with capturing the spirit of my clues in fewer letters. And a couple clues were straight-up Brooke’s ideas, including 1-Across, 5-Down, and notably 17-Down—I hadn’t heard of Ayra [STARR] before but her music is excellent and I am very glad to have learned about her through this.

Brooke was surprised I wanted to hint my own puzzle, and I get why—hints aren’t meant to be entertaining, and coming up with good ones can be quite challenging. (Shoutout to Matthew for being an absolute hinting MVP!) I actually quite enjoyed all the lexical games, though—the “mancala” anagram for [ALMANAC] was a very satisfying find, and I was quite proud of how my hint for the crossword staple at 27-Down was able to match the Minecraft theme of the clue. (Of course, the flipside was that some hints, like the one for [KORRA], had to jump through a lot of hoops to get to something coherent.)

I realize this is probably way longer than it needs to be, but making this puzzle was just such an experience. I’m absolutely going to keep making puzzles, and that’s all thanks to Brooke and Puzzmo.

[anonsally]

Day 1 in Chile: Arrival and Valparaíso

Neither of us slept much on the overnight flight to Santiago, and I have to report that landing in darkness in a place you've never been is a bit anticlimactic. I was sad not to get to see the Andes from above. However, the important thing is that we arrived safely and so did our luggage, and by the time we left the airport, the sun was up. It was cold!

Central Chile is pretty hilly, with vegetation reminiscent of much of California--scrubby bushes, some succulents and cacti, some palm trees, eucalypts, and California poppies. We drove [er, we were driven. we did not rent a car.] through some agricultural areas and one of the wine-making valleys before reaching the coast.

Our hotel in Valparaíso has a backyard, and while we were getting combobulated in the hotel room (we were able to check in early), we saw an interesting bird out the window. I was able to get a look through my binoculars and identified it as a fire-eyed diucon! Exciting! My first new bird of the trip! (Well, the first one I could identify. I saw corvids and raptors out the window on the way from airport to hotel, but not well enough to identify any of them.)

We also saw roof cats! This city is built on 42 hills, has several funiculars still in operation, and lots of murals in a diversity of styles. One side effect of the steep hills is that the cats wandering around find it easy to access rooftops.

Once we had freshened up, we headed out and found a cafe for brunch (we hadn't had much of a breakfast). This revived us enough to go for a wander. We wanted to ride the funicular, but it costs about 10 cents, so naturally you have to pay cash, and we didn't have any cash. So we had to walk down to the train station to find a machine where we could withdraw money. Then we found the nearest funicular and rode it up a hill. That was an extremely fun 45 seconds! It was very steep and actually saved a pretty long uphill climb on foot. We wandered around, admiring murals and the view, taking photos, and buying gifts, chocolate, etc. We found our way to another funicular and rode it down and then back up! More wandering, and then eventually when we were really flagging we came back to the hotel.

Wife then looked at the plugs and realised she didn't have the right kind of adaptor, so we headed out to try to find her one. We were exhausted so we walked partway, took the funicular down, walked quite a way and then discovered that the shop Google had directed us to was closed (it was past 5pm on a Sunday). We were demoralised, but managed to take a bus to the train station and returned to a shop we'd popped in at earlier for something else--but they didn't have any adaptors left. However, the woman working there explained that a two-prong European plug does plug into the 3-prong Chilean outlets, so Wife's adaptors should work after all.

At that point we were famished. We took a funicular back up (for those of you keeping track, that was 5 rides total on 2 different funiculars) and went to a nearby family-run restaurant where we ate a delicious but massively overabundant dinner. Which was a pity because the cakes looked really lovely, but I was too full to order a slice. I did, however, have a lovely cherimoya juice with my meal (it tasted like candy!), and we shared a shot of delicious cacao liqueur for a digestivo.

It was a steep walk in the cold back to the hotel, and I'm planning to go to bed very soon because I'm so exhausted and because we are getting up early tomorrow for our birdwatching tour.

[drhoz]

The Great ACT-NSW-NZ Trip, 2023-2024 -Te Upoko-o-te-Ika-a-Māui

The Head of Māui's Fish - specifically, the area around New Zealand's capital city, Wellington, deriving from the legend of the fishing up of the island by the demi-god Māui. The harbour is the mouth - an area of reddish-purple rock facing onto Cook Strait was the bait Māui used.

Wellington's placement makes it one of the windiest cities in the world, and the narrow strait and howling gales makes for complicated tides and a shocking number of shipwrecks. The geology makes for some fun times too - the Haowhenua (Māori for 'land swallower') earthquake around 1460 AD raised the harbour area by 6 meters, turning some islands into the Miramar Peninsula. The 1855 Wairarapa earthquake moved a 150km stretch of the Wairarapa fault 20m along and 8m up. in some respects this was convinient timing, since the city had been desperately short of flat land at the time, and now part of the harbour wasn't harbour anymore. It's now the central business district of the city.

Every public building in New Zealand we went into had a warning plaque that the building was earthquake prone - one of the museums in wellington had that, BUT also suggested, if the quake was a particularly big one, you might want to head to the top floor rather than out into the street. Because Wellington is also tsunami prone. The 1855 quake produced one that reached 11m above sealevel.

The hills are also festooned with delightfully eccentric architecture, and more than a few funicular lifts so people can actually get to their homes from street level. One person had a funicular installed because their dog was getting elderly and struggled with the stairs.

Most of the species I saw were along the shoreline - at the harbour and ferry terminal in the city, out around the edges of the Miramar Peninsula, and out on Cook Strait at Pariwhero/Red Rocks.

The geology at Pariwhero is quite interesting - much of the basement rock in New Zealand is greywacke, a dark sandstone derived from turbidite deposits acculmulated at the edge of the Australian tectonic plate. At Pariwhero there are also deposits of argillite, a finer-grained rock quite useful for stone tools. And basalt - but the volcanic rocks are 50 million years older than the greywacke and argillite surrounding them. That's because the basalt was originally a set of seamounts - underwater volcanoes - scraped off the Pacific Plate as it subducts under what would one day be New Zealand, buried 10-15km deep, and pushed back to the surface again as more and more stuff gets piled up on the accretionary wedge and the entire area gets folded over double and concertinaed. Most of the colour in the local rocks is the result of iron leaching out of the basalt over tens of millions of years, and the argillite was deposited in the lee of the seamounts.

[public-transportation-tournament]

Kakola Funicular, Turku, Finland vs Angkutan Kota (Angkot), Indonesia

Kakola Funicular: It's so dysfunctional. It's become kind of legendary by how often it breaks down and needs to be repaired. Yet it will keep going, trying it's best not to fail yet again. I love it. Also if you actually get to ride it, it's actually a fun and beautiful time, no matter how short.

Angkutan Kota: they ARE annoying as fuck BUT they're the transport of the people and it's hard to deny that. before free school buses became more common, a lot of kids would take them to school. they come in many different colors ranging from a turquoise-ish blue, to bright lime green, to even red, usually depending on the city (they tend to get greener the deeper east you get into Java), my great grandma used to call them "laler ijo" or "green flies" bc they are EVERYWHERE. cheap with a wide reach, and they've been modernized recently so there's even some with ACs now to beat the tropical heat as well as wireless payment (can't speak for other provinces, but in Jakarta a lot of them are free now!)

[inventors-fair]

Across the Finish Line: Weird Vehicle Winners ~

Our wheeled warriors this week are @curiooftheheart, @deg99, and @misterstingyjack!

It's going to be hard to talk about some of these entries this week, because wow, we had a lot of strong, unique submissions. Paring down to winners and runners wasn't easy, but I can't wait to talk about them.

@curiooftheheart — Artillery Drive

This is a heck of a mechanical payoff. Interesting how it's such an aggressive card, one that only looks into attacking, but at the same time I never considered how much the defensive property of vehicles can matter—or at least, I had considered it, but this cars makes me rethink its aggression. The cost is enough for me to put this solidly in the limited/casual/commander areas of the vehicle archetype. And what a card it is for that; turning on your engines is quite strong.

When considering the creature/noncreature functionality of vehicles, I love how this card can tap as soon as it comes out, UNLESS it gets crewed. The incentivization of deckbuilding to that strength becomes core. Big vehicle archetype? Absolutely wild. And then, the complexity of the bonus buff for if it's a creature? Every part of this card is both top-tier complexity and easily grokable. Assuming one reads the card, I mean. Players who can use this card effectively will be able to demolish their opponents. I wonder, what is a "Drive" here? That's the only part I'm more curious about, but if it's a mechanical specificity to the augmenting nature, I think I feel it.

@deg99 — Story Train

We had a lot of red vehicles this week. Honestly, we had a lot of variety in the vehicles. This one is the only Saga in the bunch. Can you believe that? Look, Mx. 99, I have to be honest: when I first saw this card, I really thought it was too weird. And then, I thought about it mechanically, and got mad about how well it would play. And then, I remembered some long-forgotten children's trope about a train that took people on story-based adventures. Seriously, I was like...five? Six? No idea, but lord knows it's there. This is weirdly effective in terms of trope connection. What the heck is making this so...enjoyable?

The only thing that I would change is the possibility of having the abilities start with "Until end of turn, ..." to ensure that there's no confusion between the ability-granting EOT and the animation EOT effects. You mentioned the story in your submission, but I actually feel that this card just kinda...works. The train gains its different abilities as it goes along, and then it ends in a fiery cataclysm because the train has to stop somewhere and everything explodes. It carries itself. This shouldn't work! This really shouldn't be as fun as it is! And yet, you have a removable body that says "let me tell you the tale of how I did twelve damage and exploded your planeswalker." I couldn't not include this one for innovation's sake. Far from broken, far from normal.

@misterstingyjack — Phandelver Funicular

This card is the marriage of story and functionality that makes it both nicely weird and neatly good to deal with. I'll be doubly honest as well: the dungeons/initiative are tied with the Ring as my least favorite mechanics. Period. Ever. Does this card work? Yes, 100%. Should it have the keywords that it does? That's... Well, I think that it's a little much, and menace/trample don't feel great together always, but that's disregarding the dungeon exploration mechanic. Your description of the vibes, the name, and the understanding of the world all come together to make this card as good as it is.

I'm going to assume that you know more about D&D than I do if this was what came to mind, or at least that you liked the AFR stuff more than I did. You know what? That's fine! Fantasy world tourism is a silly enough idea that it makes sense to me—why wouldn't there be some dungeon that's being grifted? What's up with the grand tour? Well, someone made a vehicle that can delve into it safely, so there you go, more bang for your buck. What a silly card. If I was ever forced to play a D&D set again, I would love to play this card. Weird vibes, fun times. Those long-time inventors know that I get into sad/grim/serious cards a lot, but why not have some fun with a mechanically relevant and straightforwardly world-curved card. Right?

Runners and commentary later today. @abelzumi

[luggagelockerparis]

Exploring Paris with Kids: Stress-Free Travel Tips (Including Luggage Storage at Gare du Nord)

Visiting Paris with kids is a magical experience—between the Eiffel Tower, crepes on every corner, and enchanting carousels, there’s never a dull moment. But if you’re arriving or departing from Gare du Nord with bags in tow, managing luggage can quickly turn from charming to chaotic. Thankfully, there are plenty of luggage storage options near Paris Gare du Nord to keep your Parisian adventure light and stress-free.

Why Use Luggage Storage in Paris?

When you’re traveling with children, the last thing you want is to drag suitcases around the city while trying to explore. Whether you're waiting for a check-in time, have a late train to catch, or just want to roam free, luggage storage in Paris is a game changer.

At Gare du Nord, one of Paris’s busiest and most central train stations, you’ll find secure consignes (lockers) available for travelers. These are often referred to as "consigne bagage Paris" or "consignes Gare du Nord" and are perfect for storing backpacks, strollers, and suitcases for a few hours or the entire day.

Where to Find Luggage Storage at Gare du Nord

The Gare du Nord luggage storage area is located on the lower level of the station, clearly marked with signs for "Consignes Automatiques". The lockers vary in size, so whether you're stashing a small daypack or multiple large bags, there's a locker for you.

In addition to the station’s official lockers, several private luggage storage Paris Gare du Nord services are available just steps outside the station. These services often offer more flexible hours, online booking, and even insurance for extra peace of mind.

A Sample Itinerary: A Day in Paris Without the Bags

Here’s a fun itinerary you can enjoy after dropping your bags at a Gare du Nord luggage storage spot:

Morning: Drop your bags at the consigne Gare du Nord, grab a quick croissant, and hop on the Metro to Montmartre. Ride the funicular or climb the stairs to Sacré-Cœur, and let the kids marvel at the artists in Place du Tertre.

Midday: Take a quick Metro ride to the Jardin du Luxembourg. Let the kids sail toy boats while you sip a café crème in the sun.

Afternoon: Walk along the Seine and enjoy street performances near Notre-Dame or explore the Musée d'Orsay, which often has family-friendly exhibits.

Evening: Return to Gare du Nord, retrieve your bags from the luggage storage, and board your train or head to your hotel with happy, tired kids in tow.

Tips for Using Consigne Bagage in Paris

Bring coins or a credit card: Most locker systems accept cards, but a few still require cash.

Keep your valuables with you: While lockers are secure, it's always smart to keep passports and electronics in your daypack.

Book online if needed: Many third-party luggage storage Paris providers let you reserve in advance—great for busy travel seasons.

Final Thoughts

Paris is a city made for walking, wandering, and soaking in the sights. Don’t let bulky bags slow you down—use a trusted consigne Gare du Nord or luggage storage Paris Gare du Nord service and explore worry-free. With your hands free and the kids excited, you’ll be ready to enjoy every magical Parisian moment.

[worldtraveleye]

Take a Ride on Zakopane’s Gubałówka Hill Funicular for Stunning Views

When visiting Zakopane, Poland’s beloved winter resort town nestled in the Tatra Mountains, one of the most iconic experiences you cannot miss is riding the Gubałówka Hill Funicular. This funicular railway, which takes visitors to the summit of Gubałówka Hill, offers one of the most breathtaking views of the Tatra Mountains and the picturesque town of Zakopane. Here’s your complete guide to enjoying this must-see attraction and experiencing Zakopane from a unique vantage point.

What is the Gubałówka Hill Funicular?

The Gubałówka Hill Funicular is a scenic ride that takes you from Zakopane’s town center to the top of Gubałówka Hill, a popular tourist destination. The funicular was first opened in 1938 and has since become one of the most famous attractions in Zakopane, offering tourists a chance to witness panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and the town below.

At the summit of Gubałówka Hill, you’ll be greeted with a stunning 360-degree view of Zakopane and the High Tatra Mountains, making it the perfect spot for photography, relaxation, and sightseeing.

The Scenic Funicular Ride

The Gubałówka Hill Funicular ride itself is a highlight of the experience. It takes just a few minutes to reach the top, but in that short time, you’ll witness some truly breathtaking scenery. The funicular offers a smooth, comfortable ride, with large windows that allow for fantastic views of the town of Zakopane, the surrounding forest, and the towering peaks of the Tatras. As the funicular climbs up the hill, you’ll see the landscape unfold in front of you, creating the perfect opportunity for those postcard-worthy photos.

What to Expect at the Top of Gubałówka Hill

Once you reach the summit, you’ll find a variety of activities and viewpoints to enjoy. The panoramic view from the top is nothing short of spectacular. On a clear day, you can see the entire Zakopane region, including the famous wooden houses of the town, the valleys below, and the majestic Tatra peaks in the distance.

1. Stunning Views of Zakopane and the Tatras

The most obvious highlight is the breathtaking view. From here, you can look out over Zakopane and the surrounding mountains, including the famous peaks of Giewont and Rysy. The landscape changes dramatically with the seasons, offering a unique experience whether you're visiting in winter when the mountains are covered with snow, or in summer when the valleys are lush and green.

2. Observation Deck and Photography Spots

At the top of Gubałówka Hill, there is a large observation deck where you can take in the sweeping views. The area is well-maintained with plenty of space for visitors to spread out and enjoy the view, making it a perfect spot for photography or just relaxing. Whether you’re traveling alone or with family, this spot offers plenty of opportunities to snap some memorable pictures.

3. Outdoor Activities and Attractions

In addition to the view, the top of Gubałówka Hill also offers various attractions, including walking trails, cafés, and even a few small shops where you can buy local souvenirs. There’s also a cable car that offers a different perspective of the area. During the winter months, the hill becomes a hotspot for sledding and other fun activities, making it a perfect destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

How to Get to the Gubałówka Hill Funicular

The Gubałówka Hill Funicular is located in the center of Zakopane, and it’s easy to reach from most parts of the town. The funicular station is situated near Krupówki Street, Zakopane’s main pedestrian street. Tickets for the funicular can be purchased at the station, and the ride itself is quick and affordable.

Ticket Prices and Opening Hours

Tickets for the funicular are reasonably priced, with discounts available for children and students. The funicular operates daily, though the schedule may vary depending on the season. In winter and summer, it’s recommended to check the official schedule to avoid long lines, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Best Time to Visit the Gubałówka Hill Funicular

The Gubałówka Hill Funicular can be visited year-round, but the experience changes depending on the season.

Winter: The snow-covered landscape makes for a magical experience. If you visit during the winter, you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful winter scenery of Zakopane and the Tatras while taking advantage of the nearby ski resorts.

Summer: In the warmer months, the area is lush and green, and the air is crisp. Summer visitors can enjoy hiking and outdoor activities around the hill, in addition to the funicular ride.

No matter the season, the Gubałówka Hill Funicular offers an unforgettable experience with unparalleled views of Zakopane and the surrounding mountains.

Plan Your Visit to Gubałówka Hill Funicular

For more information on how to make the most of your visit to Zakopane and the Gubałówka Hill Funicular, including practical tips and the best time to go, check out the Gubałówka Hill Funicular. From ticket prices to the top attractions at the summit, you’ll find everything you need to plan your trip to this spectacular destination.

Conclusion: A Must-See Attraction in Zakopane

The Gubałówka Hill Funicular is more than just a ride—it’s an experience that offers stunning views of Zakopane, the Tatras, and beyond. Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or adventure seeker, this iconic attraction is a must-see on your Zakopane itinerary. For all the details on how to make the most of your visit to Gubałówka Hill, be sure to check out travel guide on the Gubałówka Hill Funicular and plan your adventure today!

[globetogootravel]

Top 5 Must-See Attractions in Athens, Greece

Athens, the cradle of Western civilization and democracy, is a city that seamlessly blends ancient history with modern vibrancy. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply an avid traveler, Athens offers an unforgettable experience. Here are the top five attractions you absolutely must visit when in this iconic city. 1. The Acropolis and Parthenon No trip to Athens is complete without visiting the Acropolis, a symbol of ancient Greece. The Parthenon, dedicated to the goddess Athena, stands as its crown jewel. - Travel Tips: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and the midday heat. Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain is rocky and uneven. - Fun Fact: Did you know that the Parthenon’s columns are slightly curved to create the illusion of perfect straightness? - Nearby Hotels: Consider staying at the Electra Metropolis or the AthensWas Hotel, both offering stunning views of the Acropolis. 2. Plaka Neighborhood Known as the “Neighborhood of the Gods,” Plaka’s charming streets are filled with neoclassical houses, quaint shops, and cozy tavernas. - Travel Tips: Take your time strolling through the narrow alleys and enjoy some people-watching at a café. - Gastronomy: Stop by a local taverna to try souvlaki or moussaka. For dessert, indulge in loukoumades, Greece’s version of donuts. - Fun Fact: Plaka is one of the oldest continuously inhabited neighborhoods in the world! 3. The National Archaeological Museum This museum houses one of the world’s greatest collections of ancient Greek artifacts, from sculptures to jewelry and frescoes. - Travel Tips: Allocate at least two hours to explore the exhibits. Audio guides or guided tours can greatly enhance your visit. - Fun Fact: The museum’s Antikythera mechanism is often called the world’s first computer. - Nearby Hotels: The Radisson Blu Park Hotel is a short walk away and offers a luxurious stay. 4. Mount Lycabettus For panoramic views of Athens, hike or take the funicular up Mount Lycabettus. - Travel Tips: Sunset is the best time to visit for breathtaking views and excellent photo opportunities. - Fun Fact: According to legend, the hill was created by the goddess Athena when she dropped a rock she was carrying. - Dining Tip: The Orizontes Restaurant at the summit offers fine dining with a view.

5. Ancient Agora

Once the heart of ancient Athens, the Agora was the center of political, commercial, and social activity. - Travel Tips: Don’t miss the well-preserved Temple of Hephaestus and the Stoa of Attalos. - Fun Fact: This was the place where Socrates engaged in philosophical discussions with his students. - Nearby Cafés: Grab a coffee at a nearby café and imagine life in ancient Greece.

Where to Stay in Athens From luxury accommodations to budget-friendly options, Athens has something for everyone: - Luxury: Grande Bretagne Hotel offers opulence with a rooftop view of the Acropolis. - Mid-Range: Coco-Mat Hotel is eco-friendly and centrally located. - Budget: Athens Studios provides affordable and comfortable lodging with modern amenities.

Greek Gastronomy Highlights No visit to Athens is complete without savoring the local cuisine. Try: - Gyros: A flavorful Greek wrap filled with meat, veggies, and tzatziki. - Spanakopita: A delicious spinach and feta pie. - Baklava: Layers of flaky pastry, nuts, and honey syrup. For a unique dining experience, visit a traditional “kafeneio” (Greek café) and pair your meal with ouzo or a glass of Greek wine.

ATHENS CITY PASS

Final Travel Tips - Public Transport: Use the efficient metro system to get around, but be cautious of pickpockets. - Language: While English is widely spoken, learning a few basic Greek phrases like “Kalimera” (Good morning) can go a long way. - Season: The best time to visit is in spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and crowds are thinner.

Athens is a city that captivates with its timeless beauty and cultural richness. Whether exploring ancient ruins, indulging in mouthwatering dishes, or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, your journey to Athens will be one for the books. So pack your bags and get ready to uncover the treasures of this legendary city! Click here to Book a hotel room in Athens Cheap flight to Athens Click Here to Top Activities in Athens Click here to Tickets to Acropolis and Parthenon The Athens Pass Ticket to Poseidon Temple Athens Private Airport Transfer

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[balapann-blog]

Day 5 - 10 September - Zagreb > Sarajevo

Started the day with a run which was very stop start due to the traffic lights. We then had a coffee and breakfast and went back to the flat and showered and checked out. We have stored our bags in the station and are now in another cafe.

Zagreb is interesting, it feels a bit more rough and ready, compared to the alpine sleepiness of Ljubljana. The Habsburg era buildings are in a bit more disrepair and there is a lot more building work going on. It also feels a bigger city and less set up for tourists, meaning it is quite hard to know what to look for. Lots of the museums appear to be closed for renovation, hopefully taking advantage of that sweet sweet EU structural fund cash.

We then went to a restaurant called Pithos which was really cheap and absolutely delicious. I had a schnitzel and Nin had a bean and sausage soup and we had a little beer with it. It seemed to be a place that people came for lunch from the civil service offices nearby. I really can’t recommend it enough!

After that we went to the museum of illusions which was fun, there was one illusion at the start that and you feel like you were seasick walking along a gangway when you were walking a straight line as well as lots of your classic illusions with mirrors and perspective.

We then went up the worlds shortest funicular railway and had a small craft beer from Croatia, as well as a few other small beer stops as we wandered around. Zagreb really grew on me over the day as we found little neighbourhoods away from the strip of mainly tourist bars. I think going for a run was really helpful in that as we passed places we went back to. I read (on Wikipedia) that Croatia lost 20-25% of its gdp in the war of independence that it fought with (a Serb dominated) Yugoslavia and although Zagreb did not have as much fighting as other places, a shock of something like that must be felt on the capital, particularly when it does not have he tourist money that other parts got subsequently. The little museums that were quite offbeat and the relaxed vibe meant that I was happy we stayed a second day and we saw a bit more of it than the last time we went when I was interrailing and we just went to a bar on the strip for 5 hours waiting for a train.

We had quite an expensive and forgettable meal at a vegan restaurant, got our bags and then went to the bus stop for our bus to Sarajevo. When we got there the bus company were very stressful in that they made you pay extra for baggage and then nearly didn’t accept our tickets because they weren’t printed.

We actually managed to get two seats to ourselves each which was nice, although I am still working out how to sleep on busses. The border crossing was largely fine, the Bosnian border guard just took everyone’s passports and then stamped it, without needing to look at us. The driver seemed to blow the busses clutch out so there was a slight burning smell in the bus for a bit, but it seemed to sort itself out.

We did arrive in Sarajevo an hour early at 5am! Which, considering we had no where to go and neither of us had really slept properly led to us taking what I call the ‘Chandigarh rip chord’ and booking into a Novotel for 6 hours at quite a cost (where I am writing this currently). This is named after what Ben and I did when we got into Chandigarh from Simla at 4am after a very hairy night bus and when all the other rooms were taken, went to a very nice hotel with a 24hr desk and checked in for 6 hours. I think we have learned rom this; 1. Night busses always get in early so don’t count on anything being open, 2. Night busses are probably not worth unless completely necessary and you always pay for it in the end. That being said my 6 hours in the Novotel have been bliss. We are now going to meet my friend from university, Alex who is travelling with his sister in the area!

Where we ate - Coffee - Cafe bar Botanicar, Korica 1, Pithos

What we liked - Quiche in Korica, our food at Pithos was great and really cheap

[mitmama]

Bergen

Oslo | Flam Train | Nærøyfjord & Sognefjord | Bergen | Copenhagen | Malmo, Sweden | Norway travel tips

Bergen is the gateway to the fjords, and used to be the capital of Norway. Apparently back in the days it's also where Viking raids to England first started.

We arrived in Bergen from Oslo and the fjords on a ferry. Bryggen the waterfront district is a UNESCO site with well kept historical houses.

The fish market by the wharf is lively and fun to see, with reindeer and whale sausages, roes and caviar, and giant Norwegian crabs. Just beware the prices are inflated for tourists. I bought the same reindeer sausage from the grocery store down the street for less than half the price.

Bergen's the rainiest city in Europe. thankfully it was rain and sunshine daily when we visited for 3 days.

Check out the terrain map, Bergen is surrounded by mountain and water. Apparently there are 7 peaks you can hike to. We went up two of them, marked with hearts below.

Floyen is probably the closest peak to city center. You can take the funicular up just steps from the wharf.

My daughter and I decided to hike down, a great choice. It's very easy and has great views of the city, interesting trees and ferns, and in the last 10-15 minutes a fun trip

Uriken is the highest of 7 peaks around Bergen. We had to take an Uber to the start as it's a bit further out. The Uber driver told us it's a tough hike, even though just about 1 mile up. He wasn't kidding. The first half was gravel, and the second half stairs that got steeper as you go. My daughter had to take a break and lie down, and my son who didn't sleep too well took the cable car down. So do be prepared before you go. The view from the top is spectacular.

Since we had 3 days in Bergen, we had a lot of time to wander around. No museums or churches, the grandparents and the kids said. So instead we did some shopping (for mints and licorice candies at the cute dollar store Normal), and walked and scootered around Byparken.

On food, Guess what are people lining up here at the famous 3 Kroneren for? Reindeer, lamb and "game" hotdogs. :)

We really enjoyed our meal at Bryggeloftet, the best restaurant in town. Be sure to ask for medium-rare lamb and reindeer, as the Norwegians tend to cook medium by default.

[scentedconnoisseurduck]

Family Fun in Switzerland: Exploring Interlaken and Beyond

Switzerland, with its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and family-friendly attractions, offers an ideal destination for a memorable vacation with loved ones. From the picturesque town of Interlaken to the thrilling adventures atop Harder Kulm, here’s a guide to enjoying quality time with your family in Switzerland, including details on the Interlaken harder Kulm which include Interlaken harder Kulm ticket

Journey to Harder Kulm with the Harderbahn Funicular

Harderbahn Funicular: Begin your family adventure with a ride on the historic Harderbahn funicular, which departs from Interlaken and ascends to the summit of Harder Kulm in just ten minutes. The funicular offers a comfortable and scenic journey through lush greenery and Alpine landscapes, providing panoramic views of Interlaken and its serene lakes.

Panoramic Views at Harder Kulm: Upon reaching the summit of Harder Kulm at 1,322 meters (4,337 feet) above sea level, families are greeted with breathtaking panoramic views. The viewing platform and Two Lakes Bridge offer unobstructed vistas of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, framed by the majestic Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains. It’s an ideal spot for capturing family photos against the backdrop of Switzerland’s natural beauty.

Family-Friendly Activities: At Harder Kulm, children can explore the interactive exhibits and learn about the region’s flora, fauna, and geology through engaging displays. The Two Lakes Bridge, with its thrilling views and safe design, allows families to immerse themselves in the alpine scenery while enjoying a sense of adventure.

Exploring Interlaken’s Cultural and Culinary Delights

Local Cuisine: After descending from Harder Kulm, families can indulge in Swiss culinary delights at one of Interlaken’s charming restaurants or cafes. Traditional Swiss dishes such as fondue or raclette are sure to please both children and adults, offering a taste of authentic Alpine flavors.

Shopping and Souvenirs: Stroll through Interlaken’s pedestrian-friendly streets, dotted with boutiques, souvenir shops, and chocolate shops. Pick up handmade Swiss chocolates or unique souvenirs to commemorate your family’s Swiss adventure.

Excursions and Day Trips

Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe: For a memorable day trip, families can embark on an excursion to Jungfraujoch, known as the “Top of Europe.” Accessible by the Jungfrau Railway, this journey takes visitors through tunnels carved into the Eiger and Mönch mountains, culminating at an elevation of 3,454 meters (11,332 feet) above sea level. At Jungfraujoch, families can explore the Ice Palace, take in panoramic views from the Sphinx Observatory, and enjoy snow activities in the Glacier Park.

Adventure Parks and Wildlife Encounters: Near Interlaken, adventure parks such as Seilpark Interlaken offer thrilling rope courses and zip lines suitable for older children and teenagers. Families can also visit wildlife parks like the Alpenwildpark in Interlaken, where children can observe native Alpine animals in their natural habitats.

Practical Information for Families

Accommodation: Interlaken boasts a range of family-friendly accommodations, including hotels, apartments, and traditional Swiss chalets. Many accommodations offer amenities such as family rooms, playgrounds, and kid-friendly dining options.

Transportation and Accessibility: Switzerland’s efficient public transportation system makes it easy for families to navigate between attractions. The Harderbahn funicular and other modes of transport are designed to be accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, ensuring that families with young children and seniors can enjoy a seamless travel experience.

Conclusion

Switzerland’s combination of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly attractions makes it an ideal destination for creating lasting memories with loved ones. From the scenic vistas atop Harder Kulm to the cultural experiences in Interlaken and beyond, Switzerland offers something for every member of the family to enjoy. Whether you’re exploring Alpine peaks, indulging in Swiss cuisine, or embarking on thrilling adventures, a family vacation in Switzerland promises adventure, relaxation, and quality time together amidst stunning surroundings.

[dybdahlsvisitportugalspainfrance]

Lisboa - Day 2

September 3, 2023

Bon Dia!!

Our entire group has arrived as of 9:30AM. Annie, however, is not feeling well although she is on antibiotics. Figures crossed she will be feeling better soon. Each of the 16 of us are in different stages of time change. Mark and I are probably the better off couple in the group - but then we did arrive 2 full days ago. We still feel the need for a nap - but we are sleeping during the hours one would expect to sleep. Time change is a tough thing.

We opted to return to the Hop-on Hop off bus today since we had a 48 hour pass. Today we hopped off. The weather is overcast and promising rain - but we missed it completely.

Here are some new discoveries: The 25th of April Bridge -(Portuguese Independence day from the Salazar Regime.). It may remind you of another bridge you may have seen....

...this one.

The Golden Gate Bridge built in the 1930s. The same company built both bridges but the bridge in Lisboa was build in the 1960s. The design is the same and the color is the same - so I guess they used the "don't mess with success" model. The bridge in Lisboa was completed in 1966 and was named the Salazar Bridge - but after the bloodless revolution that ousted Salazar in 1974 the bridge was renamed.

Here is another thing we saw - that made us think of something else:

Sanctuary of Christ the King

Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janero. (below)

I was closer to the statue in Rio de Janiero in 2020 - but I couldn't help but notice the similarities. Here is the look at the Brazilian statue from afar.

Anyone see the similarities here? The statue in  Rio de Janeiro, Brazil was completed in 1931 and the Lisboa statue was complete in 1963 - but the Portuguese are completely honest about the fact that their statue was "inspired" by the statue in Brazil. I will say the bases are very different...

The east side of the Tagus River was at one time an industrial area - but has now been abandoned and looks pretty sad.

BUT - the area is slowly but surely coming back. A small restaurant advertising the "best sunsets in Portugal" has grown into a LARGE restaurant and if you want to eat there you need to make a reservation months in advance. This is has awakened many small businesses to try the east side and things are changing. We talked to a few people who suggest that in the next five years this will be a hopping area. I hope so.

Another area we explored today - during a hop-off - was the beautiful gorge in downtown Lisboa. It was hard to get a photo that demonstrated this topography but here they are...

Because there are so many different "levels" to Lisboa there a many methos to help move the people between levels. One is an elevator.

Cool huh? And several funiculars. The one below is very near our hotel. There are also just plain ol' steps - lots and lots of steps...

We opted to hop off and have lunch on the river. It was nice.

The River was alive with sailboats and schooners. Just looking at the lines and riggings on these boats did me in!

We also went by an industrial area filled with massive gantry cranes.

This gave "walking to work" a whole new meaning. Look that the steps the gantry operators must climb to begin their day. OMG!!!

We had a leisurely day enjoying a small part of beautiful Lisboa. We got back to the hotel in time to get a nap before we met our leader, Carolina, and our whole group for a welcome drink - Port Wine. It was so fun to see so many of our friends again. I loved it!

Carolina suggested a restaurant that offered a local speciality: Mammoth meat sandwiches (many varieties) topped with cheese and egg and a special gravy. It was a big hit - UNLESS you have gluten issue. But I had cod - another Portuguese favorite!

Tomorrow we officially begin our tour. Let the the learning begin!!!

It is 11:00 PM and Mark is asleep. I will be too - just moments from now.

Boa Noite

[assistant-honcho]

LUGANO MENTIONED?????

I spent a week in Lugano and I loved it there. The apartment was very close to Park Ciani (view from there pictured below) and I went there several times, it is lovely. The funicular to Monte Bré was pricey but the views are amazing. You can hike from the top to Gandria which is a great little town (the hike is all downhill but fairly strenuous considering that). There is also a boat that goes around Lake Lugano and can take you to Gandria or several other places around the shore. I liked the cannoli at Il Cannolo Sua Eccellenza - Bistrot.

If anon ever has a big block of time, my young siblings and I also enjoyed hiking the BoBosco trail, which is a bit over an hour away(by car or transit). It has stunning views of the Alps(see below) and if you buy a wooden ball at the top there are spots all along the trail where you can roll the ball down all sorts of ramps and tracks, which was fun.

Anyway I highly recommend visiting Lugano! It's super pretty and relaxing.

opinions on lugano? i need to be there for a conference which is making me very grumpy (mostly because i am tired and don't wanna travel)

i barely know lugano (i've just spent a few afternoons there basically), but it's very pretty

[sudrian-railways-enthusiast]

for the ask game, can you tell/share a bit more on Cold Iron/Funiculars of the Fantastic?

i just like saying 'funiculars' <3

Funiculars and the Fantastic

AKA Cold Iron

AKA Olton Hall goes to Florida

First, some disclaimers:

This fiction engages with the existence of the Harry Potter Franchise

I do not recommend financially contributing to said Franchise at this time

This work of Real Locomotive Fiction (RLF) is inspired by Hatt v Rowling by halfbakedhex8 on twitter and Joezworld's headcanons regarding Olton Hall and Taw Valley 

Written for Traintober, this work plays with themes of cosmic horror and the threshold of the uncanny valley for steam locomotives

In which Olton Hall, due to unfortunate contract compromise and/or the mistaken assumption that his celebrity status would be properly acknowledged, finds himself neglected and obsessed over for a week on a plinth in Universal Studios theme park, Florida. His only reprieve from the endless stream of park goers? A seemingly Lovecraftian horror that mocks his form and speaks in his voice.

I have cleaned up excerpts of the scenes that inspired me:

And indeed, as Olton squinted over the heads of passengers, he saw what his driver meant. The engine was uncanny. Protruding from its smokebox was a face unlike any Olton had ever seen, but which also reflected Olton’s own complexion. Its mouth creased in the well-worn motion of connecting rods rather than the fluid motion of lips, and its dead eyes meandered to and fro in mechanical synchronization with the rhythmic oscillations of its expressionless countenance. Its skin was too rubbery and pale, and lacked a healthy metallic shine. Judging by the parkgoers in que, it seemed even some humans found its presence disturbing.

But Olton could perceive more. Living machines have a certain perception of architecture in the manner that a human perceives and imperceives faces. Certain schools of design define many a machine's very sense of self and other. Curves and straight edges, proportions and profiles, the placement and choice of components; any decision that is penned to blueprint (knowledge trivial, niche, enigmatic or even arcane to the layman) ought to have appeared as plain to Olton as the funnel on his smokebox. And so, even through the throng of people, Olton could sense an uncanniness. Parts whose function he could not understand. Parts that operated in unfamiliar ways, and certain familiar parts to him missing. As Olton scrutinized, he became more perplexed and unsettled, and curious, and sore in the smokebox. Once, he swore he caught sight of its driving wheels simply stop rotating as it left the platform and glided swiftly away. In the end, he was forced to conclude that he simply could not understand how the form so intent on impersonating his likeness could function the way it did, without actually possessing the functionality that made Olton, well, Olton. Despite functioning apparently fine? "Rich criticism", thought Olton, "coming from the engine currently on static display." But there was something else about the engine that disturbed Olton on a completely different, visceral level. It spoke in his voice. His past voice. It spoke entirely and unerringly from a script pulled piecemeal from various clips of his acting career. "Doesn't it have a voice of its own?", Olton had complained to his crew. "Of course not!", his crew had replied. "It's only a model, like a mannequin!", "It's line is only half a kilo-long, it would be wrong to confine a living engine like that, it might even be illegal here in the states." "Oh, like static display is any better", Olton groused, annoyed. His crew could only grimace awkwardly at that. Slowly, Olton softened. "Is, -did it die?" "Oh goodness! No! Its never been alive at all, just a model, remember?" "Only Cold Iron."

Some time later, uninterrupted exposure to the Public™ and the park's unwillingness to cater to the needs of their local locomotive celebrity (such as designated meet and greet events rather than a continuous barrage of attention from the public at large) leads Olton Hall to demonstrate why imprisoning a very sentient steam locomotive in a theme park is not a profitable idea. [Not Pictured]

Olton sat in the studio lot after his outburst. A rumbling noise disturbed the elevated track before him, and two terribly familiar trains approached from opposite directions. He stared, incredulously. “Are there two of you?”

For a moment, eyes literally blinked into existence where there shouldn’t have been. Olton’s vision went hazy, speckled with afterimages. Squinting, he inspected each engine, tender, and carriage. No, no eyes, why did he see —two sets of Dead eyes swiveled jerkily to stare at Olton. A staticky staccato chorus. “No. Only. One.” A detached part of Olton noted that he recognized which clip from his past that each word had come from. The rest of him didn't really know what to think. As the two trains continued, out of view, they echoed, "Our. Heart. Belongs. to. King's Cross."

Bonus Notes:

POV Your upset celebrity guest accidently gave the spark of life to your very intentionally repressed and isolated amusement park attraction and it developed a gestalt consciousness to cope.

In a world where look-a-like locos are generally sentient, animatronic loco faces are exceptionally creepy.

For more information on the funicular in question, watch the other thing that inspired this work.