Day 13 Bastogne, Belgium to Paris, France

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Well, here we are at the end of another spectacular vacation. This morning before our departure to Paris we visited The 101st Airborne Museum in Bastogne. We have been to many World War I and II museums, but this by far is one of the best. This three story building was constructed in 1936 as a mess hall for Belgium officers. In 1941-1944 it was in the hands of the German Army, and then after the end of the war by the United States and given back to the Belgiums. For those of you not familiar with the history of this area the Battle of the Bulge was fought here in Bastogne. The artifacts of the war that are throughout this museum are incredible. These, along with the scenes depicting the battle with life like figures, made you feel as though you were part of the horror that was occurring. We ended our visit in a simulated basement of a home in the midst of the bombing with the sound and lighting of bombs dropping and tanks driving by including the shaking of the building . It must be quite horrifying to experience this in real life. One leaves there appreciating the sacrifice and courage of these soldiers that fought for the freedom we have today. Even though it was our second visit there it still had a very powerful effect on all of us.

Our two week journey brought us through so many beautiful areas. We particularly enjoyed all of the smaller towns and villages, and found the people friendly and helpful even when there was a language barrier. Not sure if we will ever be back, but we are bringing back many wonderful memories.

Finding our way to the hotel at the airport was quite easy. Ray and John then left to return the car while Diane and I sat down with a glass of wine. They described that effort as a “sh-t show”. We chilled for a short bit, then went down for a quick bite before heading to bed. Early start tomorrow, as we need to be at the airport by 8:30.

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Comments

[Joseph A Coco Jr]

Back Home
Safe travels Love you guys!

[Fran Foisie]

Great trio
Sounds like you had a great time, I really enjoyed your blog ❤️

[Beth Cole]

Wonderful summaries of your trip
Thank you so much for bringing this to us. You made parts of history books "real". So glad you were able to experience this. Safe travels.

[Paul]

Riding along was exhausting but I made it, Bastogne must have powerful. Thanks for letting me ride along. Paul

[Maureen DeLuca]

Thanks so much for this blog, it was really enjoyable!! See you back home!