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Dresden
The Catholic Cathedral near the Palace. Sunday 28 June 2015
Four years ago we had Dresden listed as one of those "must see" cities. Time was against us and it was with some disappointment that we had to by-pass Dresden. Today we keep that appointment in Dresden.
After last night's thunderstorm the morning is clear and no sign of moisture in the air. Perhaps we have the weather gods on our side for a change. The long term forecasts are good and by the end of the week we might be complaining about the heat.
Our friend Polly says we'll be in Dresden by lunchtime, that's driving the equivalent of Dunedin to Christchurch in three hours. Oh boy, bring on the Regensburg-Dresden Grand Prix. We check out the map for an alternative and find there are no B roads going our way. So we strap ourselves in, put on the crash helmets and other protective gear and head for the start line. Go! The good thing about driving the autobahn on a Sunday means there are no trucks, unless they are carrying perishable goods. So we are only competing against Mercedes, BMW, Porsche, Audi, and VW. The Peugeot 2008 gives the race away at
Dresden
We have changed our car for something more useful on the autobahn. the start line and drives at a sedate 110-120 kph. The rest of them can have their morning tea in Dresden, we'll settle for an early afternoon tea.
After an Autobahn Service Centre lunch break we continued on to Dresden. Driving into the city with the River Elbe on one side and famous buildings on the other we know we made the right choice to visit. During the city's reconstruction, much of it since re-unification, large modern underground carparks have been constructed. We found one near the city centre. Today is just a brief excursion to get some tourist information and get a feel for the city. Tomorrow is the big day.
Wandering a European city on a Sunday is a wonderful experience. People are there to enjoy themselves. Shops are shut so people wander the streets enjoying the sights, museums, and outdoor cafes. In one platz a beach volleyball competition is underway. We thought we knew where the Tourist Office was from Google Maps. Someone had moved it. Finally we asked a kind young woman in a souvenir shop. "It is by the Frauenkirche under the big E". We spent the next 30 minutes looking for the big E. By chance we spotted a big I on a red banner hanging from the side of a building. Found it. Closed. We were later to discover that I in German is pronounced E.
Time to check into our hotel. It is on the outskirts of the city. What a helpful gentleman on reception. After a friendly welcome he asked if we wanted a map of the city. Yes please. "There is bus stop over the road, would you like bus tickets into the city?" Yes please. This was followed with a bus time table. This man needs a job as Head of Tourism in Germany.
We are now fully equipped for a day of sightseeing in Dresden. Bring it on.
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