On this year’s adventure, we will revisit some countries and see new ones. We are returning to Europe to continue research for Dennis’ book about his father’s WWII combat parachute jumps, see friends we encountered on the Camino Francés in 2011, explore new countries (Sweden, Denmark, Germany—we only stepped into it last year), attend the 70th Anniversary of D-Day ceremonies in Normandy, France, and walk The Ridgeway Path in England—all in seven weeks.
We are starting the adventure with a two-week transatlantic crossing, visiting Ponta Delgada Zores (part of Portugal), Dover, England, Helsingborg, Sweden, and disembarking in Copenhagen, Denmark, where we will spend a few days. Unlike last’s year five-and-a-half month romp, we have a schedule to follow.
We will again be backpacking, but we will not be carrying camping equipment. More room for warm clothes! When we arrive in Copenhagen, we can expect twelve hours of daylight per day, and temperatures ranging from 44 to 60°F (7 to 16°C). In June, we can expect temperatures in Normandy, France to be only slightly warmer: 50 to 68° F (10.5 to 20°C). Since I’ve moved to Florida, I’ve become a chilly-willy; these temperatures will push my limits.
After comparing cost and the advantages/disadvantages of a Eurorail card, we decided to purchase a Global Pass for seniors (60 years and older). With the pass we will have fifteen days of travel in a twenty-day time span, which starts counting the day we board our first train.
With the anniversary ceremonies in Normandy, most nearby hotels were full. We were fortunate enough to book our hotel last fall, but it is about fifteen miles from St. Mere Eglise, where we need to be. We have arranged to borrow two bicycles and will pedal about an hour and a half each way.
My postings while on the ship will be scarce, but I plan to have daily entries starting May 19. I hope you will join me in our travels via this blog.
What a coincidence! Yesterday I read an post that Dennis had written on a Camino website and wondered how you both were doing, and if you were travelling again–and today I received your blogpost about this year’s adventures! I look forward to following your travels once again!
Mary Lynn, Waterloo Ontario Canada
Mary Lynn, Thank you for following our adventures. I am looking forward to the traveling and all that it includes.
Dear Jane and Dennis:
It sounds fabulous but I didn’t see the dates you will be leaving and returning. But sounds like you’ll departing very soon.
Have a fabulous trip! And a Happy Easter! I look forward to following along by reading your posts, as I have in the past.
I have friends in Germany, Sweden, Paris and London if you would like any contacts.
Bon voyage!
Sonia
Sonia, We will be leaving May 5 out of Miami on the NCL Star and flying into Miami on June 19. Thank you for your encouragement and for following the blog.
So looking forward to your trip reports. Bon Voyage! Ingrid
Having just read your planned path, I am, as the Buddhists say, SITTING WITH my feeligs, trying to sense which is greater: the inspiration you provoke or the envy swirling in my lower basement. 🙂 🙂 I look forward to following the whole adventure.
I’m listening to Barry Manilow’s “They Wrote the Songs” re greast broadway musicals, songs, and singers, which makes me ask: Will Normandy “jokeboxes” be full of Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy, Chattanooga Choo Choo, Lili Marlene (this one sung by both sides!).
Meigs Glidewell, Sarasota Florida.
Meigs, The music you picked sure is reminiscent of the times, but I think the music played at the memorial services will be more somber….Taps.
Thanks for joining us on our adventures.
happy easter jane and dennis !!!
sound like you all are off on another exciting adventure .
have fun, be safe.
Happy Holidays, Phil.
Yea, your back. I’m looking forward to traveling along with you on your travels, even if it is only through the Internet. It’s as close as I’ll ever get to any of these places and I love the history you always have included in your post. I’ll watching for your next post.
Hi Donna Jean,
I look forward to reading your comments. I hope you will enjoy this trip.
Sounds exciting! I look forward to following along.
Thanks, Aine. Hope you enjoy the posts.
Glad to see that you are on the “road” sea again. Look forward to following you’re adventures.
Ann
Thank Ann, nice to have you along with us on our journey.