Auckland International Airport

Leaving the country on a lovely mild day on our trip to Prague where we will start our river cruise on the Elbe in a few days time.

Dresden

Our boat the Theodor Fontane is moored conveniently a few minutes walk from the old town area with its sandstone buildings, most of which have been rebuilt in the last 30 years. In fact the Frauenkirche was a pile of numbered bricks the last time we were here. It is stunning inside, especially the altar and dome.

Also went and had a look at the treasures that belonged to the ruler of Saxony, August, the Strong, beautiful but very ornate gold clocks, vessels, including a specially large and rare green diamond brooch. Unfortunately no photography allowed .

The chef took us on a stroll to taste the local sausages and cheese which was memorable.

Prague

Enjoying the scenery , historic buildings and atmosphere of the old city. Our
Last visit was over 40 years ago and neither of us can remember anything. It was still very much under Communist rule then although there had been that uprising in 1968 when we were living in Wolfsburg. The atmosphere was a bit tense as East Germany had come
To the assistance of the Russians and quelled things much to the disgust of the west. I was a bit worried when they started testing the air raid sirens in Wolfsburg but thankfully there it ended.
Went and looked at the Museum
Of Communism and saw a record
Of protest and hardship
Over The decades
From the 1940s onwards . Walked along the river with many other tourists doing the same thing. Time then for a cold beer and a nice spicy sausage .