Krakow

We are saying goodbye to Krakow tomorrow after a five day stay. It has been absolutely delightful and although the weather has left a bit to be desired it really has not stopped us doing anything. For example, today is has been quite heavy rain for most of the day. John went walking the ghetto this morning again and we left the apartment about 9.30. We drove out to Plaszow Concentration Camp where the Jews of Krakow were sent and was featured in Schindler's List and had a look at the site and memorial there. From there we went into town and drove around the Kasimierz area. We then went to the square and made phone calls home. It was wonderful to chat to Cait and Lanie and Ben at length and quickly to Eileen, Mum and Dad and Lynda. This has been our first chat with them all and we were pretty excited. From there we went to see the oldest Uni in Poland where they have a remarkable clock that chimes and music plays at 1 pm. We were craving a coffee by then and usually try and find a special place to have a coffee every Sunday. Well, did we find it - in the form of a jazz club. There was an incredible band playing and a singer and we had our coffee over a couple of hours. Magic!!!

From there we wanted to go and pick up some souvenirs and presents and by then it was about 4.30 so we thought we might come home and watch Wimbledon final, had dinner and and now it's nearly 9 and we have to pack up and get ready to leave. So although it's been raining we have filled the day, had a great time and feel relaxed. Last wet day, we went around to Oscar Schindler's factory which is just around the corner from where we are living. They have made it into a museum on the Nazi occupation of Krakow and it was without doubt one of the best museums I have been too. When we found out there was only a small section on Schindler we thought we'd just do a quick walk through but got more and more enthralled as we went on. We also went out to the salt mine at Wieliczka. Now that was interesting. You walk down about 360 steps to the first level tunnels where the miners have carved figures out of the salt. There is a whole cathedral carved out of salt as well as centuries old equipment. You eventually get down to the third level. Thankfully there is a lift to take you back up.

John went out to Auschwitz yesterday. I opted not to go as I get too despaired. Is that a word? John had a good day and took his time looking at both Auschwitz and Birkeneau. He said it has not changed a lot since he was last there in the 70s. I went shopping and had a relaxing day. Much better for me.

So we have had a good look around, lots of wonderful experiences here. We are heading off to the west and will have one more night in Poland in Paczkow and then head back to the Czech Republic. Paddy leaves tomorrow for Dubai for a couple of days and then off to Athens so not long now till we see our boy in the Greek Islands.

All is well. Thanks for writing everyone. It's good to hear news of home.