As I plan on doing alot more taveling this year I plan on extending my EUROKISC blog to cover all travels I make in the 2009/2010 year.
I will blog on my recent trip to Alaska soon, I just have limited time at the moment to write right now.
Will post later, hope everyone is having an amazing summer like I am!!
later;
-RoverRob
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Saturday, July 4, 2009
The Beginning of the End
July 3rd, 2009
20:38EDT: Here I am on my flight home right now flying over Baffin Island (cold snow covered Baffin Island), I did have a neighbour for a little bit but then family had a place near them. So its nice I have a 2 seater row all to myself.
The end of my Adventure. I have been on the go since 0430 this morning. To check out of the hotel I got for the night, to get to the train station to catch the first train to the Flughafen (Airport) at 0502 hours.
Just and FYI: this post is going to be very random, and all over the place, I have about 3 days to make up for so bare with me.
Last night for my last night in Europe, I met up with Helga, an ex staff from Sweden in the Fall 2008 season. She is still in Switzerland as a student, and on an Au Pear (something like a student exchange I believe) system, and comes out to Kandersteg for the weekends. We grabbed a few drinks, sat down by the lake, and just took it easy. Zurich See (Lake Zurich in English) is very beautiful, and apperently warm because everyone was diving in off the bridges.
My night train to get into Zurich, didn't seem long, but then again I slept (and I didn't feel like a slept a lot either). But it was weird… I was asleep, and I guess I had a feeling or something, because at 0523 in the morning, I woke up, and the train was passing through Kandersteg. I just missed the Chalet, but out of any times that I could have woken up!!
I arrived in Zurich at around 0845 and just went to look for a hotel. I was glad to be back on the CHF because it was a cheaper conversion rate (1.00 CAD= ~1.05CHF) but the hotel room by the Bahnhof (train station) still set me back 170.00 CHF ( I wasn't really worried, it was my last night and I was under my budget anyway). However it was nice, I unpacked everything in my bags, looked at what I needed, and what I could shove to the bottom. I had a nice nap at 1000, and a shower. After I went and did what I usually did, went for a walk to get lost and see the city. I ended up walking to the University Hospital, Saw REGA (Equivalent to our STARS) land, wound up at this really nice beach volleyball courts, with a grassy area by the lake's river that cuts through Zurich. It was hot out so everyone was there, getting their summer glow.
My last day in Rome. I met up with Leah and Kat (the 2 Canadian's I had met in Vienna) and we went through the Museni Vaticini ( Vatican Museum). We had decided to met at the huge obelisk in the middle of the front grounds of the Vatican. I had got through the gates easier before, but this morning they were having mass outside, so police were there searching bags, and people. Which I don't really get, because Techniqually the Vatican is a 52 acres sovereign state (or Country) within the walls of Rome. So I would have thought that Rome Police wouldn't be able to exit out of the country (this being Italy) or even Rome for that matter. Despite the Vatican being "Protected" by Swiss Guards. Which is really cool because the Swiss are awesome! Then we went to the Coliseum, and the Palentine and Forum. As a side note: I don't think I could ever drive in Rome, you have cars upon cars, and scooters, upon cars, upon cars. When you cross the street you are taking you life into your own hands whether you have the cross lights or not. You have police cars with lights on for no reason, so you have no idea who's coming or going, scooters speeding past police cars, and nothing, its crazy! Well in all of Europe all the motorbikes and scooters, push to the front so you have to wait for them to go which ever way they are going , and then its just Crazy.
Back to Today: I guess I am just used to waiting now, I departed Zurich at 0655 and landed in Amsterdam at 0745 and then had to wait about 7 hours for my flight directly back to Calgary. But the time seemed to go by pretty fast, I read, I listened to Music, read some more, went shopping, went for a short walk. I was debating about going into Amsterdam again just to get out, but I decided against it because I didn't want to accidently miss my flight, whether loosing track of time, or train breaking down or what not. When I get home it will be Midnight on my "International clock" as mom calls it. But after being there for 4 months it hardly seems like my "International Clock". Since it would be Midnight Europe Time it is 1600 hours Calgary Time. So I lose an hour with all the flying. Not bad eh! I get my day all over again! Whether I'm exhausted or not.
Today is the first day of Stampede and I have my cowboy hat out, and traveling. Like a good Calgarian should. And Just for this trip I pulled out my Pink!! Yes just when I thought I had gotten away from the colour Pink, it seems to sneak back up on me. Also at the of our KISC season, we were each given a GIANT envelope with stuff in it. I said that I would not read it until at least the plane back to Calgary, and I kept to just that. In the envelope was letters, and posters, and it was great!! I read the letter our PR guy (Tati) made, we never really talked but it was a very sincere letter, so Tati if you read this, thank you!
Tomorrow at 0500 if I am up, I have to go help out with our Lions club, to set up and start cooking breakfast for the 19th Annual Bowness Stampede Breakfast and Parade. And I see my Scouts and join in the Parade (It's like a welcome home parade JUST FOR ME!!! Haha I can be so cynical at times.
I CAN'T ACTUALLY BELIEVE I'M GOING HOME. I'm excited to be, but then it is really weird because its been so long, I have had my own rules, my own curfew, my own agenda. Now I'm going back to live back under my parents rules, have a curfew (if I don't want to wake anyone up with alarm sounds, or getting the third degree for being out all night), and I guess I learnt a new patience for people (I hope anyway) with trying to get by with a language for 4 months. I'm still in the mind set of speaking foreign languages, and probably will have it for a while, until I do become fully comfortable with Canadian English again.
So now that I am home, my plans or To Do list:
Get off GDL
Apply to take Class 4
ROAD TRIPS
I GUESS WORK (only to make back the money I spent on this trip)
Vacation MORE!!
Explore!
20:38EDT: Here I am on my flight home right now flying over Baffin Island (cold snow covered Baffin Island), I did have a neighbour for a little bit but then family had a place near them. So its nice I have a 2 seater row all to myself.
The end of my Adventure. I have been on the go since 0430 this morning. To check out of the hotel I got for the night, to get to the train station to catch the first train to the Flughafen (Airport) at 0502 hours.
Just and FYI: this post is going to be very random, and all over the place, I have about 3 days to make up for so bare with me.
Last night for my last night in Europe, I met up with Helga, an ex staff from Sweden in the Fall 2008 season. She is still in Switzerland as a student, and on an Au Pear (something like a student exchange I believe) system, and comes out to Kandersteg for the weekends. We grabbed a few drinks, sat down by the lake, and just took it easy. Zurich See (Lake Zurich in English) is very beautiful, and apperently warm because everyone was diving in off the bridges.
My night train to get into Zurich, didn't seem long, but then again I slept (and I didn't feel like a slept a lot either). But it was weird… I was asleep, and I guess I had a feeling or something, because at 0523 in the morning, I woke up, and the train was passing through Kandersteg. I just missed the Chalet, but out of any times that I could have woken up!!
I arrived in Zurich at around 0845 and just went to look for a hotel. I was glad to be back on the CHF because it was a cheaper conversion rate (1.00 CAD= ~1.05CHF) but the hotel room by the Bahnhof (train station) still set me back 170.00 CHF ( I wasn't really worried, it was my last night and I was under my budget anyway). However it was nice, I unpacked everything in my bags, looked at what I needed, and what I could shove to the bottom. I had a nice nap at 1000, and a shower. After I went and did what I usually did, went for a walk to get lost and see the city. I ended up walking to the University Hospital, Saw REGA (Equivalent to our STARS) land, wound up at this really nice beach volleyball courts, with a grassy area by the lake's river that cuts through Zurich. It was hot out so everyone was there, getting their summer glow.
My last day in Rome. I met up with Leah and Kat (the 2 Canadian's I had met in Vienna) and we went through the Museni Vaticini ( Vatican Museum). We had decided to met at the huge obelisk in the middle of the front grounds of the Vatican. I had got through the gates easier before, but this morning they were having mass outside, so police were there searching bags, and people. Which I don't really get, because Techniqually the Vatican is a 52 acres sovereign state (or Country) within the walls of Rome. So I would have thought that Rome Police wouldn't be able to exit out of the country (this being Italy) or even Rome for that matter. Despite the Vatican being "Protected" by Swiss Guards. Which is really cool because the Swiss are awesome! Then we went to the Coliseum, and the Palentine and Forum. As a side note: I don't think I could ever drive in Rome, you have cars upon cars, and scooters, upon cars, upon cars. When you cross the street you are taking you life into your own hands whether you have the cross lights or not. You have police cars with lights on for no reason, so you have no idea who's coming or going, scooters speeding past police cars, and nothing, its crazy! Well in all of Europe all the motorbikes and scooters, push to the front so you have to wait for them to go which ever way they are going , and then its just Crazy.
Back to Today: I guess I am just used to waiting now, I departed Zurich at 0655 and landed in Amsterdam at 0745 and then had to wait about 7 hours for my flight directly back to Calgary. But the time seemed to go by pretty fast, I read, I listened to Music, read some more, went shopping, went for a short walk. I was debating about going into Amsterdam again just to get out, but I decided against it because I didn't want to accidently miss my flight, whether loosing track of time, or train breaking down or what not. When I get home it will be Midnight on my "International clock" as mom calls it. But after being there for 4 months it hardly seems like my "International Clock". Since it would be Midnight Europe Time it is 1600 hours Calgary Time. So I lose an hour with all the flying. Not bad eh! I get my day all over again! Whether I'm exhausted or not.
Today is the first day of Stampede and I have my cowboy hat out, and traveling. Like a good Calgarian should. And Just for this trip I pulled out my Pink!! Yes just when I thought I had gotten away from the colour Pink, it seems to sneak back up on me. Also at the of our KISC season, we were each given a GIANT envelope with stuff in it. I said that I would not read it until at least the plane back to Calgary, and I kept to just that. In the envelope was letters, and posters, and it was great!! I read the letter our PR guy (Tati) made, we never really talked but it was a very sincere letter, so Tati if you read this, thank you!
Tomorrow at 0500 if I am up, I have to go help out with our Lions club, to set up and start cooking breakfast for the 19th Annual Bowness Stampede Breakfast and Parade. And I see my Scouts and join in the Parade (It's like a welcome home parade JUST FOR ME!!! Haha I can be so cynical at times.
I CAN'T ACTUALLY BELIEVE I'M GOING HOME. I'm excited to be, but then it is really weird because its been so long, I have had my own rules, my own curfew, my own agenda. Now I'm going back to live back under my parents rules, have a curfew (if I don't want to wake anyone up with alarm sounds, or getting the third degree for being out all night), and I guess I learnt a new patience for people (I hope anyway) with trying to get by with a language for 4 months. I'm still in the mind set of speaking foreign languages, and probably will have it for a while, until I do become fully comfortable with Canadian English again.
So now that I am home, my plans or To Do list:
Get off GDL
Apply to take Class 4
ROAD TRIPS
I GUESS WORK (only to make back the money I spent on this trip)
Vacation MORE!!
Explore!
Monday, June 29, 2009
Roma
First day in Rome.
To be honest I'm not as taken by Rome then I thought I would be.
Today it was a high of 28 degrees Celcius, clear blue skies, and the heat just beating down all day. You have no choice but to carry hat, sunglasses, water bottle with you as a minimum. I think I drank a good 2L today, and I'm still thirsty, and am going to drink more.
I went to visit the Coluseum, the Forum, the Palace. Saw the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, I walked from the Coluseum all the way back to the Hostel. I'm not sure how far Km wise it was but it was long.
I bought a transit pass, which I thought was a Rome Card (it is valid for 3 days and gives you unlimited travel on buses and Metro train lines, and free admission to 2 sites and discounts at the rest for 23 Euro). But I guess what I bought was just a transit pass for 25 Euro.
Coluseum: is absolutly huge, but not as big as I thought it would be though. I spent the extra Euro for a tour, which was ok, but went to fast for me, cause your moving fast, and always looking at the tour guide not really the sight.
The Palace and Forum were good, they were included in the tour, and this tour guide was better, he told us all about the history, and how common phrases today came to be from the Romans.
Such as the wedding; with the sides of the husband and wife at the alter and the wedding dress, and the carrying across the threshold, and the wrong end of the stick (not sure if that one is true or not though).
The Trevi Fountain: Was amazing, so many details, and tourists, and it was big.
I stopped for lunch at Burger King. Markets are scarse around Rome, and the one I did find last night was expensive, and I didn't really know what I wanted to eat.
This morning, I thought I would go pruse the Vatican, however I did hear that was a Holiday today (so I thought that everything would be closed), and it wasn't until I got on the train to go, that it clicked. "I'm in Rome, where the population is huge and 90% of them are Catholic." That and the train was crowded, and Nun's were in their full robes, and priest's (I'm not cathloic, and I'm not sure the correct term for them so I'm sorry if I get the wrong term, or offend anyone) were in their suits.
So I went to the Coluseum instead.
Lat night in Rome. I arrived at the hostel around 1630 hours, and just came got settled in saw the guy from the States, I met in Vienna. He suggested places I should go. He is now doing photography and expanding his portfolio in European Cities. Meeting models (or wannabe models), and doing fun photoshoots.
On my way back to the hostel, I came across a bakery, and bought some chocolate crossaunts for breakfast. It won't be any different to the breakfasts I have had in other hostels, where you get a big plate, utensils, cups, and a single bun with butter and jam.
I have no idea what I want for dinner, or for Lunch tomorrow, but I will need to find a supermarket or something so I am not spending all my money on Café's or restraunts.
---Man I could kill for a AAA Alberta Steak right now with potatoes, and veggies. Or Honey/Garlic, or BBQ Wings. Or BBQ Ribs. YUMMMMMMM---
Now either, there are very tiny mosquetos, or I am getting heat rashes, I think there might be bed bugs here, I have a whole bunch of tiny red spots, and I didn't have them before I got here. But they are itchy, and all over my arms and legs.
And yesterday, after I arrived, I went for a little walk, with nothing. After about 200/300m I came to my senses and turned around came back. I have never been so happy as to have a cold shower in my life!!
To be honest I'm not as taken by Rome then I thought I would be.
Today it was a high of 28 degrees Celcius, clear blue skies, and the heat just beating down all day. You have no choice but to carry hat, sunglasses, water bottle with you as a minimum. I think I drank a good 2L today, and I'm still thirsty, and am going to drink more.
I went to visit the Coluseum, the Forum, the Palace. Saw the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, I walked from the Coluseum all the way back to the Hostel. I'm not sure how far Km wise it was but it was long.
I bought a transit pass, which I thought was a Rome Card (it is valid for 3 days and gives you unlimited travel on buses and Metro train lines, and free admission to 2 sites and discounts at the rest for 23 Euro). But I guess what I bought was just a transit pass for 25 Euro.
Coluseum: is absolutly huge, but not as big as I thought it would be though. I spent the extra Euro for a tour, which was ok, but went to fast for me, cause your moving fast, and always looking at the tour guide not really the sight.
The Palace and Forum were good, they were included in the tour, and this tour guide was better, he told us all about the history, and how common phrases today came to be from the Romans.
Such as the wedding; with the sides of the husband and wife at the alter and the wedding dress, and the carrying across the threshold, and the wrong end of the stick (not sure if that one is true or not though).
The Trevi Fountain: Was amazing, so many details, and tourists, and it was big.
I stopped for lunch at Burger King. Markets are scarse around Rome, and the one I did find last night was expensive, and I didn't really know what I wanted to eat.
This morning, I thought I would go pruse the Vatican, however I did hear that was a Holiday today (so I thought that everything would be closed), and it wasn't until I got on the train to go, that it clicked. "I'm in Rome, where the population is huge and 90% of them are Catholic." That and the train was crowded, and Nun's were in their full robes, and priest's (I'm not cathloic, and I'm not sure the correct term for them so I'm sorry if I get the wrong term, or offend anyone) were in their suits.
So I went to the Coluseum instead.
Lat night in Rome. I arrived at the hostel around 1630 hours, and just came got settled in saw the guy from the States, I met in Vienna. He suggested places I should go. He is now doing photography and expanding his portfolio in European Cities. Meeting models (or wannabe models), and doing fun photoshoots.
On my way back to the hostel, I came across a bakery, and bought some chocolate crossaunts for breakfast. It won't be any different to the breakfasts I have had in other hostels, where you get a big plate, utensils, cups, and a single bun with butter and jam.
I have no idea what I want for dinner, or for Lunch tomorrow, but I will need to find a supermarket or something so I am not spending all my money on Café's or restraunts.
---Man I could kill for a AAA Alberta Steak right now with potatoes, and veggies. Or Honey/Garlic, or BBQ Wings. Or BBQ Ribs. YUMMMMMMM---
Now either, there are very tiny mosquetos, or I am getting heat rashes, I think there might be bed bugs here, I have a whole bunch of tiny red spots, and I didn't have them before I got here. But they are itchy, and all over my arms and legs.
And yesterday, after I arrived, I went for a little walk, with nothing. After about 200/300m I came to my senses and turned around came back. I have never been so happy as to have a cold shower in my life!!
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Last day in Venice
Today was my last day in Venice.
This morning was raining. Not hard but it was enough to get you wet. I decided to go see the Doge's Palace in Piazza San Marco. This Palace was where the early Venician Democratic system took place. The Doge's (Du-o-ge) Palace houses the parliments, the courts, and the Bridge Of Sighs (named because of the prisoners sighing while being dragged off to the prison). They don't like people taking photos anywhere inside the Palace so unfortunitly I wasn't able to take any.
It stopped raining at around 1300 and clear blue, sunny skies were present for the rest of the day.
I decided today, that since I will maybe only be in Venice once, to induldge. I got a HUGE slice of Pizza for lunch, and went to a little café for dinner.
In the afternoon, I walked the Jewish Ghetto, which was the first Ghetto in the world. I also just got lost and walked around. Somehow I managed to wind-up further back from where I started. Lucky the water busses run and from the water I can almost navagate.
Also today I went to the train station, waited in line for almost an hour, to have Italian's yell and curse that the service was slow, it was kinda scary. But in the end I got my train time for tomorrow, and I'm set to go to Rome.
I don't think I have allowed myself enough time to see all of Rome, 3/3.5 days might not be enough to see all the major stuff.
This morning was raining. Not hard but it was enough to get you wet. I decided to go see the Doge's Palace in Piazza San Marco. This Palace was where the early Venician Democratic system took place. The Doge's (Du-o-ge) Palace houses the parliments, the courts, and the Bridge Of Sighs (named because of the prisoners sighing while being dragged off to the prison). They don't like people taking photos anywhere inside the Palace so unfortunitly I wasn't able to take any.
It stopped raining at around 1300 and clear blue, sunny skies were present for the rest of the day.
I decided today, that since I will maybe only be in Venice once, to induldge. I got a HUGE slice of Pizza for lunch, and went to a little café for dinner.
In the afternoon, I walked the Jewish Ghetto, which was the first Ghetto in the world. I also just got lost and walked around. Somehow I managed to wind-up further back from where I started. Lucky the water busses run and from the water I can almost navagate.
Also today I went to the train station, waited in line for almost an hour, to have Italian's yell and curse that the service was slow, it was kinda scary. But in the end I got my train time for tomorrow, and I'm set to go to Rome.
I don't think I have allowed myself enough time to see all of Rome, 3/3.5 days might not be enough to see all the major stuff.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Venice
Today has been a travel day.
Starting at 0500 hours waking up to get final preperations done to check out.
My train was sceduled to depart Wien Sudbahnhof at 0621 hours. For an 8 hour trip to Venice St. Lucia Train Station.
After checking-in to my hostel (which used to be an old Cereal Storage Wearhouse, and right across from the tourist district, but in a residential neighbourhood. It's peaceful yet close enough to everything) I hoped on the bus (which is a water bus!! How cool is that!?) and went to get lost and explore. I stumbled across Piazza San Marco (which has been shown in many movies, maybe most recently The Itialian Job at the very begining where Donald Sutherland calles his daughter before the job)
Venice which is arrgumentably the most romantic city in the world, is very beautiful, I have just got here I have already fallen in love. The canals, the fresh sea air in your face, the arcitecture, it is amazing.
I am hoping to met up with the Canadian's I have met in Vienna, however I am still waiting to hear back from them.
But for a day and a half, I will be ok on my own and hopefully meet new people in Rome to go around with. I am really excited to take my Night Train! I hear they are weird, and that its easier to go to sleep because you are being rocked by the rails, like a baby in a cradle ( not that I am one) but also that I am back in my second home country...Switzerland. Only to return to my first home country.
Anyways, on to the present. Venice, 8 hour train trip, really beautiful, I'm thinking of going out tonight and walking around agian at Sunset (actually no, thinking about that, I am going to do it!) It is 2017 hours right now and I have about 2 more hours of sunlight.
Tomorrow I would like to go see the Palace in the Piazza San Marco, and the basilica. Hopefully make it up to Lido.
Tomorrow is Also Think Pink day for KISC!!! So all staff and ex staff are to wear pink, get together, and just promote the centre. I think I might just wear my t-shirt. KISC ROX!!!
Starting at 0500 hours waking up to get final preperations done to check out.
My train was sceduled to depart Wien Sudbahnhof at 0621 hours. For an 8 hour trip to Venice St. Lucia Train Station.
After checking-in to my hostel (which used to be an old Cereal Storage Wearhouse, and right across from the tourist district, but in a residential neighbourhood. It's peaceful yet close enough to everything) I hoped on the bus (which is a water bus!! How cool is that!?) and went to get lost and explore. I stumbled across Piazza San Marco (which has been shown in many movies, maybe most recently The Itialian Job at the very begining where Donald Sutherland calles his daughter before the job)
Venice which is arrgumentably the most romantic city in the world, is very beautiful, I have just got here I have already fallen in love. The canals, the fresh sea air in your face, the arcitecture, it is amazing.
I am hoping to met up with the Canadian's I have met in Vienna, however I am still waiting to hear back from them.
But for a day and a half, I will be ok on my own and hopefully meet new people in Rome to go around with. I am really excited to take my Night Train! I hear they are weird, and that its easier to go to sleep because you are being rocked by the rails, like a baby in a cradle ( not that I am one) but also that I am back in my second home country...Switzerland. Only to return to my first home country.
Anyways, on to the present. Venice, 8 hour train trip, really beautiful, I'm thinking of going out tonight and walking around agian at Sunset (actually no, thinking about that, I am going to do it!) It is 2017 hours right now and I have about 2 more hours of sunlight.
Tomorrow I would like to go see the Palace in the Piazza San Marco, and the basilica. Hopefully make it up to Lido.
Tomorrow is Also Think Pink day for KISC!!! So all staff and ex staff are to wear pink, get together, and just promote the centre. I think I might just wear my t-shirt. KISC ROX!!!
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Day 2 & 3, Vienna
Yesterday (with my new found friends)
We went to the Museum of Modern Art (it was really creepy and weird)
I'm not an art lover so all I'm going to say is the building looked interesting, glass floors off the elevator, and levels all over the place.
Then we walked into a café got a little something for lunch, and wandered around downtown Vienna.
It has been pouring rain the entire time, and we still walked and browsed the cobble-stone pedestrian roads in the shopping district, went into a cathedral and then had to go met Leah's (the other Canadian) friend at one of the train stations as they were traveling together to Venice on the night train.
Today it was actually sunny and warm, so I decided to go to the palace, and tour the gardens. The two Dutch guys left for Budapest this morning.
I leave for Venice at 0623 tomorrow morning, and arrive at 1421. Then tour around friday afternoon, saturday. Sunday I'm right back on a train again. This time to Rome, where there will be so much to do and see that I need to try to fit into about 3/3.5 days!! I wonder if I can do it without freaking out!?
We went to the Museum of Modern Art (it was really creepy and weird)
I'm not an art lover so all I'm going to say is the building looked interesting, glass floors off the elevator, and levels all over the place.
Then we walked into a café got a little something for lunch, and wandered around downtown Vienna.
It has been pouring rain the entire time, and we still walked and browsed the cobble-stone pedestrian roads in the shopping district, went into a cathedral and then had to go met Leah's (the other Canadian) friend at one of the train stations as they were traveling together to Venice on the night train.
Today it was actually sunny and warm, so I decided to go to the palace, and tour the gardens. The two Dutch guys left for Budapest this morning.
I leave for Venice at 0623 tomorrow morning, and arrive at 1421. Then tour around friday afternoon, saturday. Sunday I'm right back on a train again. This time to Rome, where there will be so much to do and see that I need to try to fit into about 3/3.5 days!! I wonder if I can do it without freaking out!?
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Vienna
So day one in Vienna was an interesting day
My first night here I made some new friends from Canada (former Albertian) and from Holland!
Yesterday we went to the Technical Museum as it was raining (and forecasted to rain the rest of this week) for the morning. We walked down town to find lunch, and stumbled accross a demonstration to the parliment building, so We go and have a tour of the parliment building today (assuming there are no demostrations).
Basicly for the resst of the day, we came back to the hostel, played cards, talked.
This is looking to be a very relaxing city (good thing too, because Venice and Rome will keep me going hard)
That is about it for Day one in Vienna. I leave for Venice on Friday on an 0730 train, and I am not really close to the train station, so we shall see how it works out! (fingers crossed, and I'll make it!)
Home in: 8 Days (wow)
My first night here I made some new friends from Canada (former Albertian) and from Holland!
Yesterday we went to the Technical Museum as it was raining (and forecasted to rain the rest of this week) for the morning. We walked down town to find lunch, and stumbled accross a demonstration to the parliment building, so We go and have a tour of the parliment building today (assuming there are no demostrations).
Basicly for the resst of the day, we came back to the hostel, played cards, talked.
This is looking to be a very relaxing city (good thing too, because Venice and Rome will keep me going hard)
That is about it for Day one in Vienna. I leave for Venice on Friday on an 0730 train, and I am not really close to the train station, so we shall see how it works out! (fingers crossed, and I'll make it!)
Home in: 8 Days (wow)
Monday, June 22, 2009
Thoughts from the Train
June 22, 2009
The time now is 1530, I have been riding the rails for about 7 hours now. Its really given me a long time to think, and all that I can think about is my sisters text/e-mail she sent me. " we're at swisschallete for fathers day dinnner, im having a salad. like always. and a shirly temple. and i relized how much i miss you. no one will eat my cherry =( . . . .just wanted to let you know. =) hope france is going well! Love you!" and how I'm off in the big scary world ALONE. Right now it’s kind of scary, but I know I will have a blast and that once I get out and keep my mind busy it will be ok. But that is really hard when your sitting on a train waiting to get to that place that will keep you busy. I have another 4 hours left before I arrive in Vienna, Austria from Utrecht, Holland. Before now I have been hanging out with Pip and her family and friends so I have really felt alone. I know I can get through the next 10 days, but it feels like a daunting task.
Alex I'm sorry I didn't reply but I REALLY MISS YOU TOO!!!!
On the brighter side the country side at 200km/h is really nice! Whether I'm in Germany, or Austria right now I have no idea. There isn't exactly "Welcome to Germany" or "Welcome to Austria" signs on the tracks.
On Saturday, I met Pip and Christal at the Utrecht Train station and we went to Pip's friends house where we would stay for that night and last night. Christal's other friend from Denmark was to meet us there. That night we Tried to drive into Amsterdam. I use tried not because we got lost, but because the only weekend we were there they decide to shut down the highway for maintenance. Anyways we went home and tried it again in the morning. This time we took the train, and Pip was suppose to meet us in Amsterdam but was meeting a few friends instead so it was just the 3 of us. Amsterdam was fun we took a canal cruise, learnt about some of the house's, toured the Anne Frank House, and walked through the infamous Red Light District, which was more eerie then Paris' because in Amsterdam Prostitution is Legal, and although smoking weed is not, it is "tolerated" so prostitutes and weed everywhere.
And as before see Paris for the clarification.
I am only in Vienna until the 25 where I train it to Venice on the Friday (26) and then train to Rome on the Sunday (28), until July 1 then Night train to Zurich to arrive on the 2nd and fly home home on the 3rd :)
I love traveling, but its just a little overwhelming alone, so I do wish I had a close friend or family member with. But it will be ok, this is a historical and soul searching trip, and already I feel like a better person, and a stronger person because of it!
The time now is 1530, I have been riding the rails for about 7 hours now. Its really given me a long time to think, and all that I can think about is my sisters text/e-mail she sent me. " we're at swisschallete for fathers day dinnner, im having a salad. like always. and a shirly temple. and i relized how much i miss you. no one will eat my cherry =( . . . .just wanted to let you know. =) hope france is going well! Love you!" and how I'm off in the big scary world ALONE. Right now it’s kind of scary, but I know I will have a blast and that once I get out and keep my mind busy it will be ok. But that is really hard when your sitting on a train waiting to get to that place that will keep you busy. I have another 4 hours left before I arrive in Vienna, Austria from Utrecht, Holland. Before now I have been hanging out with Pip and her family and friends so I have really felt alone. I know I can get through the next 10 days, but it feels like a daunting task.
Alex I'm sorry I didn't reply but I REALLY MISS YOU TOO!!!!
On the brighter side the country side at 200km/h is really nice! Whether I'm in Germany, or Austria right now I have no idea. There isn't exactly "Welcome to Germany" or "Welcome to Austria" signs on the tracks.
On Saturday, I met Pip and Christal at the Utrecht Train station and we went to Pip's friends house where we would stay for that night and last night. Christal's other friend from Denmark was to meet us there. That night we Tried to drive into Amsterdam. I use tried not because we got lost, but because the only weekend we were there they decide to shut down the highway for maintenance. Anyways we went home and tried it again in the morning. This time we took the train, and Pip was suppose to meet us in Amsterdam but was meeting a few friends instead so it was just the 3 of us. Amsterdam was fun we took a canal cruise, learnt about some of the house's, toured the Anne Frank House, and walked through the infamous Red Light District, which was more eerie then Paris' because in Amsterdam Prostitution is Legal, and although smoking weed is not, it is "tolerated" so prostitutes and weed everywhere.
And as before see Paris for the clarification.
I am only in Vienna until the 25 where I train it to Venice on the Friday (26) and then train to Rome on the Sunday (28), until July 1 then Night train to Zurich to arrive on the 2nd and fly home home on the 3rd :)
I love traveling, but its just a little overwhelming alone, so I do wish I had a close friend or family member with. But it will be ok, this is a historical and soul searching trip, and already I feel like a better person, and a stronger person because of it!
Friday, June 19, 2009
Vimy Ridge
Today I left Paris destened for the WWI battle grounds.
I arrived in Arras (small town north of Paris) I was looking for a bus to get me there, as I had heard that they had a few going there. After talking to the bus guy (who spoke no english and me trying as hard as hell to understand him and desipher the words coming out) I went to a bus station, talked to all the bus drivers (who spoke little english) and they all said that this is the wrong bus go back to the bus depot where after the bus guy told me that is where I needed to be. So after getting the run around by the bus drivers, and some of the a hotel information people. I finally gave up on the bus, and had to splurge for a taxi if I wanted to see it today. It cost 21. 20 Euro from the train station to the park (a total of about 12km).
At the Monument (which I believe is considered Canadian Soil because it is a chunk of land donated to the Canadian People by the French Government. The Office of Veteran's and Foregin Affirs, runs and maintains the park. and all the Staff there are on work contracts from Canada!!
The staff I met today were from Ontario, Quebec, BC. and they all were very nice, and great to meet some new friendly Canadian faces.
After I had seen the Monument (which was very moving; after seeing the landscape, and the monument, and what had happened and the symbolism behind it I had to hold back tears!!)
It was very nice, White Limestone made up the monument, with the angels embracing the fallen to heaven, the tomb of the unknown soldiers, with the weeping mother waiting for her son to come home, above the tomb. The road leading to the parking lot is bordered by full flourishing maple trees, while in the back ground the shell trenched ground and trees only grow leaves on the top. I toke a tour of the trenches, and the tunnel they have how the battalions would sleep and the trenchs where allied and axis no-mans-land met within 25 metres.
Even with my decription, I can't give this place enough justice, if you are ever in France, this is a must see to all Canadians.
After leaving the Memorial park, I caught a train to Lille where I am spending the night and catching another train tomorrow morning to Utrecht, Holland, where I shall met Pip and her friend again and go around see a little bit of Holland, before I go on an 11 hour day train journy to Vienna on Monday.
I believe as of now: Home in 14 days!!
still I love traveling, but I can't wait to come home and sleep in my own bed, and not live out of my backpack, and just relax without feeling pressured to get up to catch a train, plane or automobile, sleep in (because I am exhausted, but I have to keep going. Maybe Utrecht will let me recharge my batteries)
I arrived in Arras (small town north of Paris) I was looking for a bus to get me there, as I had heard that they had a few going there. After talking to the bus guy (who spoke no english and me trying as hard as hell to understand him and desipher the words coming out) I went to a bus station, talked to all the bus drivers (who spoke little english) and they all said that this is the wrong bus go back to the bus depot where after the bus guy told me that is where I needed to be. So after getting the run around by the bus drivers, and some of the a hotel information people. I finally gave up on the bus, and had to splurge for a taxi if I wanted to see it today. It cost 21. 20 Euro from the train station to the park (a total of about 12km).
At the Monument (which I believe is considered Canadian Soil because it is a chunk of land donated to the Canadian People by the French Government. The Office of Veteran's and Foregin Affirs, runs and maintains the park. and all the Staff there are on work contracts from Canada!!
The staff I met today were from Ontario, Quebec, BC. and they all were very nice, and great to meet some new friendly Canadian faces.
After I had seen the Monument (which was very moving; after seeing the landscape, and the monument, and what had happened and the symbolism behind it I had to hold back tears!!)
It was very nice, White Limestone made up the monument, with the angels embracing the fallen to heaven, the tomb of the unknown soldiers, with the weeping mother waiting for her son to come home, above the tomb. The road leading to the parking lot is bordered by full flourishing maple trees, while in the back ground the shell trenched ground and trees only grow leaves on the top. I toke a tour of the trenches, and the tunnel they have how the battalions would sleep and the trenchs where allied and axis no-mans-land met within 25 metres.
Even with my decription, I can't give this place enough justice, if you are ever in France, this is a must see to all Canadians.
After leaving the Memorial park, I caught a train to Lille where I am spending the night and catching another train tomorrow morning to Utrecht, Holland, where I shall met Pip and her friend again and go around see a little bit of Holland, before I go on an 11 hour day train journy to Vienna on Monday.
I believe as of now: Home in 14 days!!
still I love traveling, but I can't wait to come home and sleep in my own bed, and not live out of my backpack, and just relax without feeling pressured to get up to catch a train, plane or automobile, sleep in (because I am exhausted, but I have to keep going. Maybe Utrecht will let me recharge my batteries)
Paris (cont)
Okay, I've been slipping a bit... but in My defence, I was out all day seeing the sights, and when I got back to the Hostel I crashed.
After going back to Pip's family's appartment we had dinner, and went back to the Arc at sunset to watch the lights come on, and see a beautiful Paris Sunset. After the Sun had set we walked down to see the Eiffel Tower. The Eiffel Tower is so much better lit up.
Jour: 3
Addendum to Day: 1
It was pouring down rain. After seeing the Louvre, went met Pip (she had been up all night from her "undate") and went for a coffee. Then went to see the Pantheon (where great minds like Rousseau, and Voltaire are buried) After Dinner we went for a walk throught the area where my Hostel was. We went to the Sacre Coure, strolled through the Red Light District, saw the Bal du Moulin Rouge (in the heart of the district), and the famous neighbourhood of Montmartre (where I was).
Some thing I wish to point out before I go on:
-my Hostel was NOT in the Red Light District
-we were NOT propositioned
-I had no idea that my Hostel was close to the district when I booked.
Jour: 2
In the Morning we took a walking tour of Paris. We we're shown around by an Australian guide who is studying in Paris. We saw the Eiffel tower, the Arc Du Triomphe, the Louvre, the Notre Dame, and learnt about the statues in the city.
After going back to Pip's family's appartment we had dinner, and went back to the Arc at sunset to watch the lights come on, and see a beautiful Paris Sunset. After the Sun had set we walked down to see the Eiffel Tower. The Eiffel Tower is so much better lit up.
Jour: 3
Today Myself and Mr/Mrs. Weeks went to the Palace of Varsilles (not spelt right, but hard to spell). We toured throught the Palace, saw the Kings chambers, the Queen's Chambers, the Doulphin house, had lunch in the ENORMOUS gardens.
Jour: 4
For my last day in Paris, went to the Catacombs, inside the Notre Dame, the Opera House (where the Phantom of the Opera is based out of), shopping, and just tried to have a somewhat relaxing day, before Pip's friend Christal from Australia came to stay with them. That night Myself and the two Aussi's made pizza and garlic bread, while the couple went out for an anivarsiry dinner. After our dinner we went sat by the Eiffel Tower and just chilled for an hour before we came back because we we're absolutly exhausted, from everything over the last 4 days.
That was my time in Paris: Tomorrow (well today since I'm writting it now) Vimy Ridge and the Canadian War Memorial!
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Jour 1 Paris
Paris:
Jour: 1, Nuit: 2
This is going back a few days, but trying to make a post for each day. On Monday in Paris Myself, and Mr, & Mrs Weeks (Pip's parents) toke a tour of the Royal Muesse Du Louvre!!
I saw the Mona Lisa, the Cover of coldplays new ablum (the _________ of Medusa)
I saw the Venus Du Milo
It was the biggest, and most crowded museum I have been too!!
Then we took a walk down to La Notre Dame.
Paris is absolutly Beautiful,
tomorrow's Adventure: Eiffel Tower, Arc Du Triomphe, "free" walking tour,
Sunday, June 14, 2009
City of Lights
Paris: Nuit un.
I CAN'T FRIGEN BELIEVE I'M IN PARIS!!!!!
but the trip here was almost a nightmear!!!
First we can't find a reservation on the train, so we miss our train to Bern and eventually to Bassel to meet Pip's parents.
Then we catch the train to Brig and then a train to Geneva, the train breaks down in Montreux and we are stuck for 30min then another train comes to replace it, but we miss that because Pip needed credit for her phone to keep in touch with her parents. We then catch a train to Geneva just run to the France platforms, and just make a train to Paris, no reservations! (lucky they did have some seats available or we would have stood in the luggage area for the 5 hour trip)
We finally make it to Paris!!!!! at 1700hours. Pips parents ended up going through Bassel to Paris and met us at their rental appartment. I am at a hostel about (I've counted it) 2 metro lines, and 13 stations from them!!
I have seen the paris underground more then I have seen the sights. But that will soon change tomorrow, when we do a walking tour tomorrow morning, and then see all the cool sights!!
I STILL CAN'T FRIGEN BELIEVE I'M IN PARIS
It was really hard to say goodbye to everyone today! and make sure we got everyone. But the new shorties are going to have an awesome time and a very busy one to!!
Not much more to report about tonight, will try to keep everyone up to date as the days go on!!
Home in 20 days! =O
I CAN'T FRIGEN BELIEVE I'M IN PARIS!!!!!
but the trip here was almost a nightmear!!!
First we can't find a reservation on the train, so we miss our train to Bern and eventually to Bassel to meet Pip's parents.
Then we catch the train to Brig and then a train to Geneva, the train breaks down in Montreux and we are stuck for 30min then another train comes to replace it, but we miss that because Pip needed credit for her phone to keep in touch with her parents. We then catch a train to Geneva just run to the France platforms, and just make a train to Paris, no reservations! (lucky they did have some seats available or we would have stood in the luggage area for the 5 hour trip)
We finally make it to Paris!!!!! at 1700hours. Pips parents ended up going through Bassel to Paris and met us at their rental appartment. I am at a hostel about (I've counted it) 2 metro lines, and 13 stations from them!!
I have seen the paris underground more then I have seen the sights. But that will soon change tomorrow, when we do a walking tour tomorrow morning, and then see all the cool sights!!
I STILL CAN'T FRIGEN BELIEVE I'M IN PARIS
It was really hard to say goodbye to everyone today! and make sure we got everyone. But the new shorties are going to have an awesome time and a very busy one to!!
Not much more to report about tonight, will try to keep everyone up to date as the days go on!!
Home in 20 days! =O
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Here We Are, At The End.
"Here we are, At the End, say goodbye, To all your friends, Here We Go, Watching the sun go down, sitting on roof tops, make the time stop, I never want to come back down."
- Theory of A Deadman (Album: Scars and Souviners 2008)
of Yesterday (June 12, 2009) my Spring Season at Kandersteg has officially come to an end *tear tear cry cry*
We had to hand in our keys, Polo shirt, and pants. We had a giant meeting where we discussed the season as a group, the highs and lows, a sad ending to the working season. Last night for a final goodbye the Spring shorties, went to the bar with the long term staff, and then most of us off to High Moon for the disco. As of right now, Rakel (IS) and David (RU) are on the train home, with about 4 more leaving today. I leave kandersteg tomorrow, and depart for Paris with Pip and her family! I'm really exicted to see Europe yet really nervous because I won't really have a home out here anymore.
As the season came to an end, we had Staff Day Out (Wednesday June 10, 2009). Where all the staff had a day out filled with fun, and excitment. In the morning we went White Water Rafting on a class 3 river, then drove to Interlaken where we had lunch, and toured a chocolate factory which was dilicious, and informative. For a short break before we back to the chalet we had ice cream across the street at a fancy hotel, on their rooftop restraunt, And to top it all off we had an amazing 3 course dinner at the Doldenhorn hotel in Kandersteg (*****). Where we had a few speeches, some awards of the season ( I got Most Canadian out of the 4 here, which is a good thing.... I think). Then just for us, one of the bars was opened up, so it was a good day for everyone.
On Thursday almost all the shorties, had the morning off. Then it was mandatory to work in the afternoon, because we had to be packed, and out of our staff rooms, by 14oohrs. At 1400hrs we started work on Deep Cleaning our rooms, and bathroom. So until Sunday, the Canadian Room is my new home.
This will be my last posting from KISC, but while traveling I will try to give regular updates on places and events. But no promises (Subject to cost and availibility of internet connection).
- Theory of A Deadman (Album: Scars and Souviners 2008)
of Yesterday (June 12, 2009) my Spring Season at Kandersteg has officially come to an end *tear tear cry cry*
We had to hand in our keys, Polo shirt, and pants. We had a giant meeting where we discussed the season as a group, the highs and lows, a sad ending to the working season. Last night for a final goodbye the Spring shorties, went to the bar with the long term staff, and then most of us off to High Moon for the disco. As of right now, Rakel (IS) and David (RU) are on the train home, with about 4 more leaving today. I leave kandersteg tomorrow, and depart for Paris with Pip and her family! I'm really exicted to see Europe yet really nervous because I won't really have a home out here anymore.
As the season came to an end, we had Staff Day Out (Wednesday June 10, 2009). Where all the staff had a day out filled with fun, and excitment. In the morning we went White Water Rafting on a class 3 river, then drove to Interlaken where we had lunch, and toured a chocolate factory which was dilicious, and informative. For a short break before we back to the chalet we had ice cream across the street at a fancy hotel, on their rooftop restraunt, And to top it all off we had an amazing 3 course dinner at the Doldenhorn hotel in Kandersteg (*****). Where we had a few speeches, some awards of the season ( I got Most Canadian out of the 4 here, which is a good thing.... I think). Then just for us, one of the bars was opened up, so it was a good day for everyone.
On Thursday almost all the shorties, had the morning off. Then it was mandatory to work in the afternoon, because we had to be packed, and out of our staff rooms, by 14oohrs. At 1400hrs we started work on Deep Cleaning our rooms, and bathroom. So until Sunday, the Canadian Room is my new home.
This will be my last posting from KISC, but while traveling I will try to give regular updates on places and events. But no promises (Subject to cost and availibility of internet connection).
Monday, June 1, 2009
Kander-Lodge Openning Weekend
The the time that everyone has worked so hard, and stressed so much over has finally come and gone....
The Kander-lodge openning weekend.
As of friday we were on a special Rota, where everyone was everywhere.
Mine was as follows:
Friday: 0700hrs start in Catering (set up for breakfast) till 1300hrs 2 hour break then shop at 1500hrs till 1700hrs, and back to catering at 1700hrs. We had a special meat fundue for the Members, and Work Party. I didn`t end up finishing till about 2100/2200hrs.
Saturday: House/Special. 0800 start. So daily cleaning but carrying the house phone for if Gillan (Guest Service Director) for any "special" projects that needs doing. As I'm daily cleaning, I get called to do check outs, check-ins, and Gillian a few times for some projects. Daily cleaning and other stuff took forever to finish. I had a 1 hour "break" for lunch, where I ate lunch, and then got called into a special meeting for the BBQ Dinner after lunch. Director Mark needed the people who haven't showered or shaved to do it at lunch to look nice for the party. I didn't really have any time after the meeting but raced to have a quick shower and shave and then back to work. After lunch it was back to house, FINALLY finished daily cleaning, and some other tasks, then over to Gillian at 1400hrs to set up for Apero Service. Almost everyone at 15oo had time to change and get ready for the opening at 1600hrs. Except me, I finished setting up for Apero then listened to speaches from the Chair of the Members Committee, from the World Bureau, and the Swiss Scout Commission. Then outside for the sign unvailing, and back to work. The Apero finished at 1700hrs, then Race over the BBQ to help finishing setting up, and serve, and refill the grill for the cooks. For the BBQ we had rain, cold heavy rain. I had no coat, or sweater, only a t-shirt becuase I had no time to grab one. The BBQ was finished at 1900hrs with everyone soaked, and freezing. I finally had time to have a short break, before I was suppose to be at the opening party. The openning was good, we had the bar going, a local Band which was really good. The Pinkies partied till midnight dancing and having a great openning party.
Sunday: We were expected to work after the party to help clean up. The schedule said till 0100 hours, but we finished at 0030 hours and booked it over to the High Moon Pub, where they had a Disco that night. That was the closest thing I have had to clubbing in 3 months. We are so ready to party we stayed till 0300hrs, and came back to the centre. Six hours later we started work. Today I was on Members Programme. My duty was to take the Members on a walk to Ochinnesee take the gondola up the mountain, do the Rollarbahn (which was AWESOME) and just be a good ambassador to the centre. It was a nice somewhat relaxing end to the weekend, so I thought. Most of the members after lunch wanted to go for a hike up the mountain and back to the gondola, I went with them. It was a nice walk, steep in parts but a better view of the lake. I returned to the Centre at 1600hrs, Tom (Programme Manager) told me to have an hours rest then back to the Programme Office for some other work. After the break I was told to do some Geocacheing, or place one of the Programmes caches after working out the activity which the scouts had to do to get the coordinates for the location of the cache. At this point it was almost 1800 and the GPS was playing up, so I left it and went to dinner.
Sunday was Dave's (STS) and Mike's (Grounds Asst.) 20th birthday. Dave was having a Sauna with BYOB, I was planning on attending, but watching a movie I passed out on the couch. I ending up going to bed, and sleeping about 11hours. It was really nice, except waking up this morning was hard. I have this afternoon off. As a surprise from Mark for all the hard work this past weekend.
I am still exhausted from this past weekend, and think I might go have a nap latter this afternoon.
The Kander-lodge openning weekend.
As of friday we were on a special Rota, where everyone was everywhere.
Mine was as follows:
Friday: 0700hrs start in Catering (set up for breakfast) till 1300hrs 2 hour break then shop at 1500hrs till 1700hrs, and back to catering at 1700hrs. We had a special meat fundue for the Members, and Work Party. I didn`t end up finishing till about 2100/2200hrs.
Saturday: House/Special. 0800 start. So daily cleaning but carrying the house phone for if Gillan (Guest Service Director) for any "special" projects that needs doing. As I'm daily cleaning, I get called to do check outs, check-ins, and Gillian a few times for some projects. Daily cleaning and other stuff took forever to finish. I had a 1 hour "break" for lunch, where I ate lunch, and then got called into a special meeting for the BBQ Dinner after lunch. Director Mark needed the people who haven't showered or shaved to do it at lunch to look nice for the party. I didn't really have any time after the meeting but raced to have a quick shower and shave and then back to work. After lunch it was back to house, FINALLY finished daily cleaning, and some other tasks, then over to Gillian at 1400hrs to set up for Apero Service. Almost everyone at 15oo had time to change and get ready for the opening at 1600hrs. Except me, I finished setting up for Apero then listened to speaches from the Chair of the Members Committee, from the World Bureau, and the Swiss Scout Commission. Then outside for the sign unvailing, and back to work. The Apero finished at 1700hrs, then Race over the BBQ to help finishing setting up, and serve, and refill the grill for the cooks. For the BBQ we had rain, cold heavy rain. I had no coat, or sweater, only a t-shirt becuase I had no time to grab one. The BBQ was finished at 1900hrs with everyone soaked, and freezing. I finally had time to have a short break, before I was suppose to be at the opening party. The openning was good, we had the bar going, a local Band which was really good. The Pinkies partied till midnight dancing and having a great openning party.
Sunday: We were expected to work after the party to help clean up. The schedule said till 0100 hours, but we finished at 0030 hours and booked it over to the High Moon Pub, where they had a Disco that night. That was the closest thing I have had to clubbing in 3 months. We are so ready to party we stayed till 0300hrs, and came back to the centre. Six hours later we started work. Today I was on Members Programme. My duty was to take the Members on a walk to Ochinnesee take the gondola up the mountain, do the Rollarbahn (which was AWESOME) and just be a good ambassador to the centre. It was a nice somewhat relaxing end to the weekend, so I thought. Most of the members after lunch wanted to go for a hike up the mountain and back to the gondola, I went with them. It was a nice walk, steep in parts but a better view of the lake. I returned to the Centre at 1600hrs, Tom (Programme Manager) told me to have an hours rest then back to the Programme Office for some other work. After the break I was told to do some Geocacheing, or place one of the Programmes caches after working out the activity which the scouts had to do to get the coordinates for the location of the cache. At this point it was almost 1800 and the GPS was playing up, so I left it and went to dinner.
Sunday was Dave's (STS) and Mike's (Grounds Asst.) 20th birthday. Dave was having a Sauna with BYOB, I was planning on attending, but watching a movie I passed out on the couch. I ending up going to bed, and sleeping about 11hours. It was really nice, except waking up this morning was hard. I have this afternoon off. As a surprise from Mark for all the hard work this past weekend.
I am still exhausted from this past weekend, and think I might go have a nap latter this afternoon.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Allmanalp Via Fratta
The climb, to end all climbs.
Well for me anyway.
Yesterday for my day off, I went with Kike, and Stefan to go climbing Allmanalp
The Klettersteg is what it is better known as, but anyway you are climbing aproximatly 638m on a cliff face, with a waterfall. The path has cables, and everything to keep you secure if you fall, and ladders and bridges for you to walk on. So not a typical climb, but it was good.
It took us about 2.5 hours to climb the whole thing, with water raining down on us in places, and it had rained in the morning, so the trail was wet and muddy. With the pegs soaked with water and mud, I'm surprised no one slipped.
I managed to take a few photos on and during the climb.
We finished at about 1730 hours and the last cable car down the mountain is at 1700, so after a long climb we had to walk the steep path down the mountain.
Right now, I am sitting on the couch, on a bright sunny, warm day, on Duty (so I am not allowed to leave the centre). This weekend is the Kanderlodge Opening Party, so as today and tomorrow would possibly be busy Pip and I made a deal to help eachother out, as her duty is tomorrow.
We are expecting alot of VIP's from the World Bureau, Old Staff, and the general public. With almost no vacancy in the Chalet. So it was the right thing to do.
Today so far has been pretty busy in kitchen, and a few calls to help with guests but so far nothing I can't handle.
Tonight is staff night out, and it is swimming and Ice Cream at Dessies. I can't go which is unfortunate because of all the good looking europeans, and Commonwealthers (if you catch my drift).
It will all be good though.
I had better wrap this up and get back to work soon.
I'll attach photos of the Via Fratta.
Monday, May 25, 2009
Upper Hut
Last night we had our grand Upper Hut Opening party!
Evening Time
I was placed on Program yeasterday so I went up to the hut to clean and get things ready for the party. We decided to make a day of it; packed lunches, barbaque dinner (mmm First BBQ since I got here and I was cooking, needless to say IT WAS DELICIOUS AND AMAZING).
It was a good thing that we decided to mak a day of it, because there was so much to do! Lynsey and I were left to finish it up while the program people went back for a meeting and more supplies, and we work straight from 0900 hours till 1930 hours to get everything ready with bedding and party food.
The party was great, snacks, drinks, knot tying, etc. lol
And most of the staff stayed at the hut. Me included.
And this morning in order to be back to the centre for thought for the day, and breakfast we all woke at 0600 and Pip and I and few others hiked down the mountain, through 2 mountain vallies, and back to the centre at 0640 arriving home an hour later.
The Centre has Upper hut badges to prove that you slept at 1890m ( I think I might just get one)
With this I am trying to get back into the blog, and start writting about it after it happens, and more frequent posts, please harrass me if I start slipping again!!
View from the Day time
Evening Time
Morning (0630 hours)
Friday, May 15, 2009
My Genéve Adventure
Genéve= Geneva
On Wednesday May 13, I trained it down to Geneva, which is approximatly a 3.5 hour journey. The Swiss country was georgous, lushus forrests, with the Alps mixed in there.
Once arriving in Geneva it was a like a different country. The language changed, the people were still very nice, and the city was still made out of brick and stone, and very old unique arcitecture. I had booked a room in a hostel because of the long train ride I wanted a good chance to look around, and experience the city.
I visited the Red Cross, Red Cresent Society Musuem, walked around the outside of the United Nations Building (which used to be the League of Nations Building) because I couldn't find where the tour entrance was. I'll find it next time. Walked around the Old City, The Flower Clock, many parks, around the University, and so on. I was planning on going to visit a local bar/pub. Although most likely a dance club, however I was exhausted from all the travelling that I was in bed asleep by 2100hours (which really sucked).
In Geneva I saw my first Swiss Starbucks (wouldn't have gone in however I promised Robbie a mug, so Robbie if your reading, I got you a nice Swiss national Starbucks mug. To be mailed home so I can make room for other things).
Work wise I have been doing alot of work with Grounds and Maintenence trying to get the campsite ready for summer and the new guest laundry set up and painted. I worked with the Dutch Work Party, who came to help out for a week. Kanderlodge has finally become a place you can live in, with out the construction dust everywhere (we had about the equivilant of 2 delivery trucks, with trailers (about 1 1/2 semi's) of Ikea furniture delivered and ready to be put together. Which now everyone is getting really stressed, and telling us that we have to work late, we have to spend 1 hour cleaning a window to make it look nice, we have to start early on our lunch break. We have been ahead of the game ever since we started, and now there are just so many projects going on and not enough man power, where we are volunteers and getting worked like should getting a salary.
Anyways... moving on
Earlier tonight a bunch of the staff (myself) included went to see Angles & Demons in Bern. The movie was really good, and very creative. The movies (for the most part... play in english but have German and French (Swiss official languages) subtitles)
Any way I have the day off today, yes today (it is 0100 hours that I am writing this) so today, I have no idea what I am going to do. But I shall come up with something!
On Wednesday May 13, I trained it down to Geneva, which is approximatly a 3.5 hour journey. The Swiss country was georgous, lushus forrests, with the Alps mixed in there.
Once arriving in Geneva it was a like a different country. The language changed, the people were still very nice, and the city was still made out of brick and stone, and very old unique arcitecture. I had booked a room in a hostel because of the long train ride I wanted a good chance to look around, and experience the city.
I visited the Red Cross, Red Cresent Society Musuem, walked around the outside of the United Nations Building (which used to be the League of Nations Building) because I couldn't find where the tour entrance was. I'll find it next time. Walked around the Old City, The Flower Clock, many parks, around the University, and so on. I was planning on going to visit a local bar/pub. Although most likely a dance club, however I was exhausted from all the travelling that I was in bed asleep by 2100hours (which really sucked).
In Geneva I saw my first Swiss Starbucks (wouldn't have gone in however I promised Robbie a mug, so Robbie if your reading, I got you a nice Swiss national Starbucks mug. To be mailed home so I can make room for other things).
Work wise I have been doing alot of work with Grounds and Maintenence trying to get the campsite ready for summer and the new guest laundry set up and painted. I worked with the Dutch Work Party, who came to help out for a week. Kanderlodge has finally become a place you can live in, with out the construction dust everywhere (we had about the equivilant of 2 delivery trucks, with trailers (about 1 1/2 semi's) of Ikea furniture delivered and ready to be put together. Which now everyone is getting really stressed, and telling us that we have to work late, we have to spend 1 hour cleaning a window to make it look nice, we have to start early on our lunch break. We have been ahead of the game ever since we started, and now there are just so many projects going on and not enough man power, where we are volunteers and getting worked like should getting a salary.
Anyways... moving on
Earlier tonight a bunch of the staff (myself) included went to see Angles & Demons in Bern. The movie was really good, and very creative. The movies (for the most part... play in english but have German and French (Swiss official languages) subtitles)
Any way I have the day off today, yes today (it is 0100 hours that I am writing this) so today, I have no idea what I am going to do. But I shall come up with something!
Friday, May 8, 2009
Nights in Thun
As the sunsets the party begins!
Tonight myself and bunch of others went to Thun (T-Une) for late night shopping. Thun is such a beautiful city, with old buildings, a castle, amazing night life, etc...
This was my second trip to Thun, I went last thursday aswell, didn't buy anything but it was amazing.
Since last post a while ago, I should catch you all up on whats been going on. There is approximatly 5 weeks before Spring '09 season comes to a close :'( We had a bunch of amazing blokes from New Castle come join us and help in Kanderlodge for a week. Sitting with them in the evenings was just a riot, I would barely understand what they were saying, and they fought over almost everything!
The Spanish Work Party has left us, but not before teaching us a few new AWESOME games! And breaking a few hearts upon their departure.
Staff Night Out this week was organized by myself and Felipe, BR (recption manager). We invited the Our Chalet girls over for a chocolate fondue, and pub quiz, along with some games. It was all fun, and a great time had by all. BTW I lost my fruit 3 times so 3 lucky girls got kissed by yours truly!!
Guest wise, we have had a slow week or so, not alot of guests, well we did have Stephan (DE) a pinkie. His girlfriend and friend came for a weekend, aswell as Lynsey's (UK) family then same weekend.
Other then that we have played Football (really soccer but the UK's are forcing me to say football) and gone to the pub, my day off is this saturday and I think I might go back to Thun for the day. Then in 2 weeks time Pip, myself and a few others are planning on going to Geneva for a day or two. That will be amazing, so I will deffinatly report back on that trip.
Work wise, I have been in Kanderlodge for the last 3 days with a day or 2 of house or catering thrown in there, tomorrow is Grounds/campsite, we'll see how that goes.
On May 1st we have had a bunch of new Long Term Staff start getting ready for Summer, with a bunch more starting May 15. They are coming from Canada, South Africa, Denmark.
For after KISC my travel Itenery looks like, Paris June 14-19, Amsterdam June 19-23, possibly train to Germany for a day or two near Frankfurt, or Barvaria. Fly/train to Rome for 4/5 days, train to Venice for an overnight, train to Zurich to meet my plane come home :( :'(
Tonight myself and bunch of others went to Thun (T-Une) for late night shopping. Thun is such a beautiful city, with old buildings, a castle, amazing night life, etc...
This was my second trip to Thun, I went last thursday aswell, didn't buy anything but it was amazing.
Since last post a while ago, I should catch you all up on whats been going on. There is approximatly 5 weeks before Spring '09 season comes to a close :'( We had a bunch of amazing blokes from New Castle come join us and help in Kanderlodge for a week. Sitting with them in the evenings was just a riot, I would barely understand what they were saying, and they fought over almost everything!
The Spanish Work Party has left us, but not before teaching us a few new AWESOME games! And breaking a few hearts upon their departure.
Staff Night Out this week was organized by myself and Felipe, BR (recption manager). We invited the Our Chalet girls over for a chocolate fondue, and pub quiz, along with some games. It was all fun, and a great time had by all. BTW I lost my fruit 3 times so 3 lucky girls got kissed by yours truly!!
Guest wise, we have had a slow week or so, not alot of guests, well we did have Stephan (DE) a pinkie. His girlfriend and friend came for a weekend, aswell as Lynsey's (UK) family then same weekend.
Other then that we have played Football (really soccer but the UK's are forcing me to say football) and gone to the pub, my day off is this saturday and I think I might go back to Thun for the day. Then in 2 weeks time Pip, myself and a few others are planning on going to Geneva for a day or two. That will be amazing, so I will deffinatly report back on that trip.
Work wise, I have been in Kanderlodge for the last 3 days with a day or 2 of house or catering thrown in there, tomorrow is Grounds/campsite, we'll see how that goes.
On May 1st we have had a bunch of new Long Term Staff start getting ready for Summer, with a bunch more starting May 15. They are coming from Canada, South Africa, Denmark.
For after KISC my travel Itenery looks like, Paris June 14-19, Amsterdam June 19-23, possibly train to Germany for a day or two near Frankfurt, or Barvaria. Fly/train to Rome for 4/5 days, train to Venice for an overnight, train to Zurich to meet my plane come home :( :'(
Monday, April 27, 2009
The Rest Of April
I realize it has been about 2 weeks since I last posted, but honestly it has been kinda slow lately, or just to lazy to blog;
We have had barely any guests.
Spent days on end clearing the soccer field, only to play once.
The Pinkies got invited to a dance "Strip The Willow" from the Ladies at Our Chalet (a Girl Guide chalet much like KISC)
Have an Intern named Margot from Holland (or the Netherlands)
Mainly I have been working in grounds, house and Kanderlodge, nothing really exciting there, but its work.
I went to the dance at Our Chalet, it was a blast met another Canadain, a nice Sweedish girl, some Brits, and some Aussies. The theme was a 80's Dress-up, and I went in true pinky, frilly Cowboy fashion (and looked mighty fine at it...haha I'll post photos). All the guys from KISC (except for me) got absolutly blitzed and made complete fools of themselves. But all in all it was a good night!
Well before Our Chalet we went to a concert at a bar called the Alpenrose. The band was called "Mark & the Band". That night was really good for; good band, good company, and when leaving I met a German Girl who spoke really good English, and we as we started talking we really hit it off however I had to go call home and she was leaving back to Germany the next morning.
Dave from the UK had his mom come for a few days thats was cool, Rakel had her 20th Birthday which was really good.
Mhm right now we have the Spanish Working Party, and the UK fellowship Work Party in to give us some help getting the Campsite ready for Summer.
I do believe that that is all that has happened so far, will try to post again soon
RoverRob
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Leukerbad
I finally visited Leukerbad (the hot pool)
The water was nice, the scenery was beautiful, the mountains were gorgeous.
I went in the afternoon, so I took a half day off, and another half day Saturday afternoon. Things today worked perfect, like a scary errie perfect. I walked to the train bannhoff (station) with Alex (Helper with Kanderlodge, soon to be campsite assisstant) caught the train without waiting to long, got the Leuk ( a small town) and the bus was there waiting for us, got into Leukerbad and met the 3 (Dave, Pip, and Rakel) (they hiked the Gemmy Pass path to get there) like right as we got there. Coming home again the bus was waiting for us, we got to the train bannhoff and got our tickets for the train to be right there. Dave was talking about a friend he had in Brig and was pointing out his house as we rolled passed only for his friend to be in the same train carrage as the 5 of us. Again as we got off the train in Brig, our Kandersteg connection was right accross the platform and we started to talk to Dave's friend who invited us to a concert he is preforming on the 25 of April.
Not much has happened in the last few days so it has kinda boring, staff night out was a good BBQ everyone drank alot!!
That day it was only Pip and I on catering, so it was a little stressful but it all worked out and our food was AMAZING, and it was a nice 1 on 1 talk time with someone (rather then the group chats or 1 on 1 in front of a group of people).
In the inmortal words of Proky Pig; "ahhbb ahhbb ahhbb that's all folks" (well fore now anyway haha)
The water was nice, the scenery was beautiful, the mountains were gorgeous.
I went in the afternoon, so I took a half day off, and another half day Saturday afternoon. Things today worked perfect, like a scary errie perfect. I walked to the train bannhoff (station) with Alex (Helper with Kanderlodge, soon to be campsite assisstant) caught the train without waiting to long, got the Leuk ( a small town) and the bus was there waiting for us, got into Leukerbad and met the 3 (Dave, Pip, and Rakel) (they hiked the Gemmy Pass path to get there) like right as we got there. Coming home again the bus was waiting for us, we got to the train bannhoff and got our tickets for the train to be right there. Dave was talking about a friend he had in Brig and was pointing out his house as we rolled passed only for his friend to be in the same train carrage as the 5 of us. Again as we got off the train in Brig, our Kandersteg connection was right accross the platform and we started to talk to Dave's friend who invited us to a concert he is preforming on the 25 of April.
Not much has happened in the last few days so it has kinda boring, staff night out was a good BBQ everyone drank alot!!
That day it was only Pip and I on catering, so it was a little stressful but it all worked out and our food was AMAZING, and it was a nice 1 on 1 talk time with someone (rather then the group chats or 1 on 1 in front of a group of people).
In the inmortal words of Proky Pig; "ahhbb ahhbb ahhbb that's all folks" (well fore now anyway haha)
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Bad day... Kinda
So I was on duty for the 2nd time yesterday (Saturday), and man was it hard.
The day started off with my thought for the day, I did the Dudley Do Right Skit, which went over really well and got everyone laughing. I then had to do a check in at lunch (first one ever...so kinda scary) but I think it went well. Then I came back to the staff room and watched everyone of the short term staff practice for their skit/song which was really funny. Then back to work at the Kanderlodge.
Dinner went by pretty good, the catrering team was really well organized and ready to go before I got there. Then after dinner, or well still during dinner. The group we were catering for arrived late, and they wanted to go the campfire also so I'm sure they arrived late to the fire. Anyways, everyone left me to clean the kitchen while they went to the campfire. So the group came ate late, and the leaders decided to hang areound and talk so I had to wait for them to finish and finish doing the dishes, and mop. But while I was cleaning, I got a call saying that the check in I checked in today wanted to check out, so I had to dig through paper work, call people and see what to do, and what to charge... if anything!
Needless to say, I got everything sorted out with the lady, and the leaders of the group I'm sure arrived late to the campfire, and I didn't end up finishing kitchen untill shortly after 2100 hours. Which was ok I guess I then got to go sit for an hour before the leaders wanted some drinks, and then went on my Chalet walk, which after that I got to put down the phone and really relax unless something major happens.
Umm what else has been happening... oh I was on grounds, excited to drive the vehicles however no luck, first day the grounds person was off, then the 2nd day was a holiday and its illegal to operate machinery or power tools on holidays or Sundays. Instead I dug out a fire pit, and fire circle for one that I wasn't going to. The fire pit was under about 60 cm (2 feet) of wet heavy snow, and the stage was under about 45cm (1.5 feet) of snow.
From skiing I now look like Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer (I either blistered or peeled a circle on the tip of my nose, and its horrible), and I am under the ears. The funny thing is I did put on sun screen, and I am burnt no where else.
For staff night out, we had a Toga party and hiballs (nice change up from beer) and everyone looked amazing in their toga's.
The day started off with my thought for the day, I did the Dudley Do Right Skit, which went over really well and got everyone laughing. I then had to do a check in at lunch (first one ever...so kinda scary) but I think it went well. Then I came back to the staff room and watched everyone of the short term staff practice for their skit/song which was really funny. Then back to work at the Kanderlodge.
Dinner went by pretty good, the catrering team was really well organized and ready to go before I got there. Then after dinner, or well still during dinner. The group we were catering for arrived late, and they wanted to go the campfire also so I'm sure they arrived late to the fire. Anyways, everyone left me to clean the kitchen while they went to the campfire. So the group came ate late, and the leaders decided to hang areound and talk so I had to wait for them to finish and finish doing the dishes, and mop. But while I was cleaning, I got a call saying that the check in I checked in today wanted to check out, so I had to dig through paper work, call people and see what to do, and what to charge... if anything!
Needless to say, I got everything sorted out with the lady, and the leaders of the group I'm sure arrived late to the campfire, and I didn't end up finishing kitchen untill shortly after 2100 hours. Which was ok I guess I then got to go sit for an hour before the leaders wanted some drinks, and then went on my Chalet walk, which after that I got to put down the phone and really relax unless something major happens.
Umm what else has been happening... oh I was on grounds, excited to drive the vehicles however no luck, first day the grounds person was off, then the 2nd day was a holiday and its illegal to operate machinery or power tools on holidays or Sundays. Instead I dug out a fire pit, and fire circle for one that I wasn't going to. The fire pit was under about 60 cm (2 feet) of wet heavy snow, and the stage was under about 45cm (1.5 feet) of snow.
From skiing I now look like Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer (I either blistered or peeled a circle on the tip of my nose, and its horrible), and I am under the ears. The funny thing is I did put on sun screen, and I am burnt no where else.
For staff night out, we had a Toga party and hiballs (nice change up from beer) and everyone looked amazing in their toga's.
Staff Night out is tomorrow, and we are having a BBQ... good times, mmmmm BBQ (*drool*)
Things are going great, I do believe it is a month today that I have been here at KISC. Wow time has flown bye!
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Skiing
Day off today, I went skiing!
I went to Lotshenalps, it is through the Lotchenberg tunnel, and into Goppinstein.
It was a blast only the second time I have been skiing in the alps and its like I was never off skis. I spent about 6 hours on the slopes, and got a huge blister for it, then walking home we tried to take a short cut, but the snow melted so much that it was all muddy, and my shoes got completly covered in mud. All in all it was a great day thou. I also tried to get a photo of the Materhorn (nowhere close to me, but since it is the tallest mountain in the alps and I was on a mountain, ya you get the picture).
I also found out today that our groups website (http://www.bowmontscouts.ca) is 5th for reference sites to KISC (so basically they have this tool that tells them who visited the site) and with everyone going onto Bowmont Scouts and then to kisc.ch you have ranked 5th (ofcourse with Google being #1). So anyway 5th with about 3o someodd hits, Congradulations guys, now lets try to beat google!!
Tomorrow I start early, and am in Catering so cooking, and well more cleaning then cooking. and then after that Grounds/Campsite for 2 days so I get to drive trucks and cut down tress, sounds like fun! lately I have been house, so cleaning cleaning cleaning, also not sure if I mentioned I did a chalet tour for a group of Slovanian Scout Leaders, and some of the girls were extremly georgeous (what is it about foreign girls!!??). SERIOUSLY!!
I got a package from the family (thank you very much!) with a converter as mine broke in transit. Some goodies, and some Timmies!!!! Oh how I have missed you so, sweet sweet nectar of the gods!
Now we are watching The Dark Knight so I have to go, the best movie ever
I went to Lotshenalps, it is through the Lotchenberg tunnel, and into Goppinstein.
It was a blast only the second time I have been skiing in the alps and its like I was never off skis. I spent about 6 hours on the slopes, and got a huge blister for it, then walking home we tried to take a short cut, but the snow melted so much that it was all muddy, and my shoes got completly covered in mud. All in all it was a great day thou. I also tried to get a photo of the Materhorn (nowhere close to me, but since it is the tallest mountain in the alps and I was on a mountain, ya you get the picture).
I also found out today that our groups website (http://www.bowmontscouts.ca) is 5th for reference sites to KISC (so basically they have this tool that tells them who visited the site) and with everyone going onto Bowmont Scouts and then to kisc.ch you have ranked 5th (ofcourse with Google being #1). So anyway 5th with about 3o someodd hits, Congradulations guys, now lets try to beat google!!
Tomorrow I start early, and am in Catering so cooking, and well more cleaning then cooking. and then after that Grounds/Campsite for 2 days so I get to drive trucks and cut down tress, sounds like fun! lately I have been house, so cleaning cleaning cleaning, also not sure if I mentioned I did a chalet tour for a group of Slovanian Scout Leaders, and some of the girls were extremly georgeous (what is it about foreign girls!!??). SERIOUSLY!!
I got a package from the family (thank you very much!) with a converter as mine broke in transit. Some goodies, and some Timmies!!!! Oh how I have missed you so, sweet sweet nectar of the gods!
Now we are watching The Dark Knight so I have to go, the best movie ever
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Day off Nuemero du
Today I had my 2nd day off, it was great!!
I decided to go to Bern (the capital of Switzerland) with another staff member (Ah Ruem (KO)).
It is only about an hour train ride so it wasn't that bad, and the architecture is amazing, and there are fountains everywhere (will post photos).
Ah Ruem and I went to the Bear Pit (live grizzly bear in a pit), the natural history muesem (saw a religious exhibit of Southeast Asia, and Europe. An exhibit about Albert Einstein, and the history of Bern). and I did not know that Einstein renounced his German citizenship to become Swiss, or that he went to (then called) Zurich Polytechnique!!
After that we wandered over to the Parliment Building, for a free tour... the catch was (well wasn't really a catch) was that yesterday they only had French and German tours, however the guide did some words in English, but I believed that I understood about 30-45% of the French she was talking about (Mrs. Fitz would be so proud! I learned everything from her). Tour lasted about one hour and then a late lunch, then caught the train back to Kandersteg.
Last night was also Staff Night Out, so we played Hide and Seek in the Old Chalet, which was awesome, and then went to a traditional Finnish Sauna that was donated to the centre by a Finnish Group after the Centanial World Jamboree, in England.
All in all it was a fun...hilarious...and just an awesome Staff Night Out!
Oh and lastly before I forget, my Pinkie Staff photo is up at http://www.kisc.ch/staff/current-staff/ check me out, the photo theme
is "In the Air"
I decided to go to Bern (the capital of Switzerland) with another staff member (Ah Ruem (KO)).
It is only about an hour train ride so it wasn't that bad, and the architecture is amazing, and there are fountains everywhere (will post photos).
Ah Ruem and I went to the Bear Pit (live grizzly bear in a pit), the natural history muesem (saw a religious exhibit of Southeast Asia, and Europe. An exhibit about Albert Einstein, and the history of Bern). and I did not know that Einstein renounced his German citizenship to become Swiss, or that he went to (then called) Zurich Polytechnique!!
After that we wandered over to the Parliment Building, for a free tour... the catch was (well wasn't really a catch) was that yesterday they only had French and German tours, however the guide did some words in English, but I believed that I understood about 30-45% of the French she was talking about (Mrs. Fitz would be so proud! I learned everything from her). Tour lasted about one hour and then a late lunch, then caught the train back to Kandersteg.
Last night was also Staff Night Out, so we played Hide and Seek in the Old Chalet, which was awesome, and then went to a traditional Finnish Sauna that was donated to the centre by a Finnish Group after the Centanial World Jamboree, in England.
All in all it was a fun...hilarious...and just an awesome Staff Night Out!
Oh and lastly before I forget, my Pinkie Staff photo is up at http://www.kisc.ch/staff/current-staff/ check me out, the photo theme
is "In the Air"
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Duty
I had my first Duty roll yesterday
Here at the Centre Duty is your 24 hour on-call time. You take a phone around with you on off hours and breaks, and have to stay at the centre so there is someone who knows how to use the fire panel. As Duty person you also have to come up with a thought, for the morning meeting
So I was duty yesterday, I showed the video clip of the kung fu bear (Salmon Commerical) and ya it was good, carried the phone around, no calls at lunch... thankfully!! Although After dinner was interesting. KISC participated in Earth Hour, so we had a fire and candle light guitar session for an hour, after that I was left alone in The Chalet, while everyone went to a farwell party for one of the Long term staff, and appearently is was rockin! Whatever I got done much needed work on the staff board.
It was also the beginning of Day Light Savings Time here, so now back home it is an eight (8) hour time difference, although I'm not sure if that is a good or bad thing yet.
I am on Catering today so I have an extra long lunch break, we have to go back at 1600 hours so we can start dinner for everyone, and today there are no long term staff to man catering so it is 3 short termers rather then one or two.
It has been snowing for the past 3 days and it looks amazing outside!
Staff night out this week was a blast we did end up going curling. I think everyone had fun, which is good becuase most have never played before. After Curling we went to the bar, and ya haha back home.
It's been a long week so I am tired and thats why I'm all over the place.
chaio for now!
Here at the Centre Duty is your 24 hour on-call time. You take a phone around with you on off hours and breaks, and have to stay at the centre so there is someone who knows how to use the fire panel. As Duty person you also have to come up with a thought, for the morning meeting
So I was duty yesterday, I showed the video clip of the kung fu bear (Salmon Commerical) and ya it was good, carried the phone around, no calls at lunch... thankfully!! Although After dinner was interesting. KISC participated in Earth Hour, so we had a fire and candle light guitar session for an hour, after that I was left alone in The Chalet, while everyone went to a farwell party for one of the Long term staff, and appearently is was rockin! Whatever I got done much needed work on the staff board.
It was also the beginning of Day Light Savings Time here, so now back home it is an eight (8) hour time difference, although I'm not sure if that is a good or bad thing yet.
I am on Catering today so I have an extra long lunch break, we have to go back at 1600 hours so we can start dinner for everyone, and today there are no long term staff to man catering so it is 3 short termers rather then one or two.
It has been snowing for the past 3 days and it looks amazing outside!
Staff night out this week was a blast we did end up going curling. I think everyone had fun, which is good becuase most have never played before. After Curling we went to the bar, and ya haha back home.
It's been a long week so I am tired and thats why I'm all over the place.
chaio for now!
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
House Duty...Again!
"In all of this, it is the spirit that matters."
-Sir Robert Baden-Powell
Today for the second day I was on house duty, so more scrubbing toilets and washing sinks/floors, and we finished deep cleaning the Dutch Room. After the Dutch Room we then moved to the Canadian Room (I know, I can't believe it either. There is actually a Canadian Room!).
I guess I should explain, for every room in the Old Chalet (the building is divided up into 2 areas new and old chalets) they are named after sponsering organizations. So we have a Dutch Room, a German Room, Australian Room, United States Room (of course its the biggest), and yes a Canadian Room! Although all other rooms have been renovated in the last 10 years except the Canadian Room because Scouts Canada won't give money to renovate it (for some odd reason), and just to give you an idea on how old it is, it has a copy of the the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, wooden snow shoes, old photos of Alberta, a photo of Dawson City, and a frozen Klondike River (Yukon), and here is the kicker.... it has a photo of the Right Honourable Mr. Ray Hnatyshyn and his wife (so 1989-1990). I don't know about you but if you look at the Canadian room compaired to the others it looks out of date. According to Geoff (the other Calgarian) we tried petitioning national council for funds but got denied.
Anyway, house was ok after cleaning this afternoon we started sewing plastic knobs onto curtins for the new Kanderlodge. It was all fun we sewed, talked and listened to music. Tomorrow I am on Kanderlodge duty and so I get to use the power tools and build it! Saturday I am on "Duty" and Kanderlodge so I get to carry around a phone on off hours, no alcohol (not that that is a problem) and Sunday Catering. Tomorrow is also Staff night out and I heard through the grape vine that we are going Curling!! Exciting times. Can't wait.
I think I should post some photos this post round just so everyone can get an idea of what its like here. Y0u might also find attached a video from myswitzerland.com (Swiss travel website) about Switzerland I hope to make it to the hot pools sometime this winter/spring... well while 
there is still snow on the ground so it makes it exciting. Well I can't find the video right now but once I do I will be sure to post it
there is still snow on the ground so it makes it exciting. Well I can't find the video right now but once I do I will be sure to post itMonday, March 23, 2009
first day of week 2
Today I was late for kitchen duty! :(
I had set my alarm and I had to be in the Kitchen for 0715 hours, I slept in till 0725 hours wow lucky there was nothing to do and I didn't miss anything!
In Thought for the day someone introduced "The Murder Game" (da da daaa)
everyone got a tiny piece of paper with a sentance mine was "Robert to kill (name taken out to save the victim) with a Coke Fridge in the Woodburner Room"
anyway back to kitchen duty today me and Pip (Au) helped with leftovers for Lunch, and then Chilli for dinner it was really nice we ate did dishes and then didn't have to be back till 1630 hours so I was done at about 1 had a nice 3 hour nap and went back to work (1o min early to make up for this morning). Dinner was the same except Tim (catering manager) sent me to the Programme Store to place some cups there, however Chris (maintance) "killed" me there with a kitchen trolly. So I am offically out of the game which really sucks cause I was just getting ready to plot my murder :(
So now it is 2030 hours and I am relaxing after kitchen and everyone is drinking (the girls here are such lightweights it is hilarious!)
I had set my alarm and I had to be in the Kitchen for 0715 hours, I slept in till 0725 hours wow lucky there was nothing to do and I didn't miss anything!
In Thought for the day someone introduced "The Murder Game" (da da daaa)
everyone got a tiny piece of paper with a sentance mine was "Robert to kill (name taken out to save the victim) with a Coke Fridge in the Woodburner Room"
anyway back to kitchen duty today me and Pip (Au) helped with leftovers for Lunch, and then Chilli for dinner it was really nice we ate did dishes and then didn't have to be back till 1630 hours so I was done at about 1 had a nice 3 hour nap and went back to work (1o min early to make up for this morning). Dinner was the same except Tim (catering manager) sent me to the Programme Store to place some cups there, however Chris (maintance) "killed" me there with a kitchen trolly. So I am offically out of the game which really sucks cause I was just getting ready to plot my murder :(
So now it is 2030 hours and I am relaxing after kitchen and everyone is drinking (the girls here are such lightweights it is hilarious!)
Sunday, March 22, 2009
First day off
So today I had half a day off (not by choice but whatever)
I had the afternoon, and it was really good, I finally went skiing on the Swiss Alps!
the weather was amazing, the snow was pretty good, and hell it was the SWISS ALPS!!!
that and my coworkers are amazing so it was a wonderful afternoon!
It made up for the morning because I was on house duty, so cleaning bathrooms and halls and such (and for those of you that really know me, I hate cleaning!) and again I also have to clean the staff room today (every wednesday and sun we clean the staff common area and batroom) for the second time in a row! but I have a good 2 weeks off that I can sit and relax, which is really nice because they constantly have us on the go, like the only time your safe to sit and relax is at night and your sleeping.
I guess I shouldn't really complain because they do feed me, and I get a free place to sleep, and I am in a central location so I can travel to Bern, or Geneva, or Zurich, maybe even Milan Italy for day trips on my days off.
I hope everyone at home is doing well, Miss you all
hope your having a good time!
OHOHOH!!
I almost forgot... again
For all my Scouts and leaders/advisors out there in Bowness. There is a long term staff here, also from Calgary. From the 2nd International/122 Beddington troops he lives up in Sandstone, and was at the Queen's Venturer ceremony that I attended! I had no idea anyone else was here from Calgary especially in the same area!
Season Staff photos are scheduled to go on the website this week
oh by the way which is http://www.kisc.ch so check it out! check me out! I look very sexy in Pink haha!!
I had the afternoon, and it was really good, I finally went skiing on the Swiss Alps!
the weather was amazing, the snow was pretty good, and hell it was the SWISS ALPS!!!
that and my coworkers are amazing so it was a wonderful afternoon!
It made up for the morning because I was on house duty, so cleaning bathrooms and halls and such (and for those of you that really know me, I hate cleaning!) and again I also have to clean the staff room today (every wednesday and sun we clean the staff common area and batroom) for the second time in a row! but I have a good 2 weeks off that I can sit and relax, which is really nice because they constantly have us on the go, like the only time your safe to sit and relax is at night and your sleeping.
I guess I shouldn't really complain because they do feed me, and I get a free place to sleep, and I am in a central location so I can travel to Bern, or Geneva, or Zurich, maybe even Milan Italy for day trips on my days off.
I hope everyone at home is doing well, Miss you all
hope your having a good time!
OHOHOH!!
I almost forgot... again
For all my Scouts and leaders/advisors out there in Bowness. There is a long term staff here, also from Calgary. From the 2nd International/122 Beddington troops he lives up in Sandstone, and was at the Queen's Venturer ceremony that I attended! I had no idea anyone else was here from Calgary especially in the same area!
Season Staff photos are scheduled to go on the website this week
oh by the way which is http://www.kisc.ch so check it out! check me out! I look very sexy in Pink haha!!
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Graduation
As 11 strangers, yesterday we offically became family. Graduation was yesterday and it couldn't have been better. After training we went for dinner and had a traditional Swiss Fondue. After that well I'm not allowed to say it... confidential
So as of this moment on, we are offically Pinkies!!
It feels really cool, and I look awesome in pink by the way!!
So as of this moment on, we are offically Pinkies!!
It feels really cool, and I look awesome in pink by the way!!
Arrival at Europe
So after an extremly long 5 hour lay-over in Amsterdam, I arrived in Zurich Airport at 1700 hours, caught the train and I was on my way to Biel-Bienne, Switzerland. The train system is very good in the country, and the locals were more then happy to help me even though I didn't speak the native languages, although its suprising how far "Parle Anglis" can get you!
In Biel Bienne I stayed with a friend of a friend who is a doctor, and he was very nice and we went for drive he took me to France and around Northeast Swtizerland, all in like 2 hours!
I arrived in Kandersteg at the Kandersteg International Scout Centre on Sunday March 15 and we got straight into the training!
In Biel Bienne I stayed with a friend of a friend who is a doctor, and he was very nice and we went for drive he took me to France and around Northeast Swtizerland, all in like 2 hours!
I arrived in Kandersteg at the Kandersteg International Scout Centre on Sunday March 15 and we got straight into the training!
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