Heidelberg

It’s possible that Heidelberg has surpassed Bruges as the favorite city this far. Yes, it’s been raining. Yes, we have to taxi in to the Alt-stadt. And yes, few found the Universitat courtyard on their first or even second try. But when kids see Hall and I a half block away and start sprinting towards us, waving and drooling over their smart purchase, their cool mountain hike or their surprising--by their own admission—social skills in charming the local school graduates of Heidelberg High—well, you know we’ve hit German pay dirt.

I will back peddle and fill you in on the other cities later, but I thought you might like some real time news. Tomorrow we’ll be in the City of Spires—Prague. But today Heidelberg seems equally exotic. The onion-top steeples of the old city are set in relief by billowing, moving clouds today, but the real thrill is the castle on the hill. Most walked up the fortress-like Schloss abandoned after the War of the Grand Alliance in 1693. A gradually deterioration of this place—built between 1400-1600-- makes for a great playground.

Some of us started practicing for the Hearts tournament which will commence on our cruise. We headed to the University and played in the commons building. Here’s a picture of Marcelo sneaking a look at Reina’s hand with Candice keeping her eyes on the camera. Watch your cards, ladies.