From A-Z (Amsterdam to Zurich) Dec 2012

Around the UAE first

Our month in the UAE always begins with National Day, and this year we were celebrating the 41^st birthday of a nation. As usual the Emirates had various decorations prepared to highlight pride and accomplishments as a country. A quick glimpse from those I could capture.

Right Outside of Sama Tower

 Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!

I had wanted to do some traveling during the month of December but had not decided final details. Upon speaking with Marie, we realized we had similar goals and wanted to travel together. The idea about Amsterdam and Zurich was born. 

My dream holiday included cold weather and some snow; this was my ultimate vision. We had tickets, hotels, and an apartment scheduled and by the time the semester ended, vacation bells were ringing. Marie had to make last minute changes to her flight and she had planned to meet me a few days in around Christmas time. Thus I started the journey solo.

This journey begins a bit differently from others, the first 2 hours of Christmas Eve. I almost forgot until I heard "Dreaming of a White Christmas" playing as I boarded the flight. Followed by "Oh Christmas Tree!" Such a different setting compared to my other flights, and I was welcomed in the Czech language. Besides the large amounts of heavy winter coats on board, were a sign I was in another season. I am absolutely ready to experience this holiday season in a new place especially the winter weather; hope I packed enough layers to observe and enjoy it. Now onto a short flight with a connection through Prague and then Amsterdam.

Pause: I was on time for my departure flight at the airport however, that did not stop me from missing a connecting flight in Prague. Explanation: a couple boarded the plane and we were close to leaving gate and they changed their mind and decided to get off the plane. For security reasons and completely understandable protocol/ security measures, the flight crew has asked that everyone disembark?? The plane and everyone must go through security again and re board. Now this was already a smaller plane, separate security was needed as well as a shuttle bus which took at least 10-15 mins to get us to plane. At least 3 shuttle buses were needed. In addition the flight crew has to ask Abu Dhabi air control for permission and wait for buses to return to the runway!!! Ironically John Lennon's "This is Christmas/ War is over" started playing while we patiently waited to get off the plane. Some of us chuckled when tune started because we didn't have any other emotion at the moment. So advice to anyone-decide whether to fly before you get on to the plane.

2 light hearted moments:
-Now shuttle buses and weather outside is very cold so I feel like we left the UAE
-Everyone seems to have a positive attitude of disbelief about what just happened.

In the back of my mind, I am really worried about my connecting flight. I did only have a few minutes in between. In better news, the plane was checked and we did not have to back to main airport; however we were held up on buses for at least 20 minutes before we were allowed back on. Deja vu. Supposed to depart at 215 am and now it is about 3:20am.

Flight in Progress 

 Vítejte (welcome)

Got to Prague (Praha) around 7:15am way after my flight had left. However, the flight attendants were very nice on 2 occasions to let me know that I can connect with other flights at the transfer desk. Once I got there I was informed of a 2 hour layover and they offered me a free pass through passport control a refreshments voucher for any restaurant worth 7.40Euro (approx 10$). Not too bad considering I only had to wait a couple hours. Next worry was my checked-in luggage, but I was assured it would be transferred to my upcoming flight. Once I went through the absolutely quiet terminal, I was glad to have eaten on my flight from Abu Dhabi; also grateful for the gentleman sitting next to me on the plane, who woke me up for breakfast. The Prague airport is very deserted and looks like restaurant and shops do not open till much later.

 

At least I watched the sun come up

Now a random gentleman maybe British just wished me a "Happy Christmas" and I responded with "You too!" Apparently that did not suffice because he proceeded to approach me closer and say it again. This time I said it louder with a smile "Happy Christmas!" He smiled and continued his journey down the terminal. Tis the season.

Thanks to a voucher from KLM staff at the connecting desk, I made an investment. 

Lollipop was quick way to get rid of my coins. Next time I will stay awhile and step outside.

Amsterdam on the Horizon
Because I was placed on a flight randomly, I did not have a seat preference. The plane was also much smaller and it truly was a short distance to Amsterdam. Nonetheless, I saw an opportunity for vacant window seats in front of me and I asked the flight attendant, if I could move. She said yes with no hesitation. I did not think much about my seat until we were lifting off and the curtain was drawn behind me.

 Unintentional upgrade to business #winning.

Finally landed-I could not be more excited.

My first impressions of Amsterdam….rainy and gray, bikes everywhere; even as its drizzling. Canals which I have seen in pictures do not appear as intimidating as I had expected. Also people are texting all over as they cruise on bikes-as if they have no care in the world. I also loved that all age groups were visible.

Amsterdam Accommodations
During my visit in Amsterdam, I stayed in a hotel in Central Amsterdam and then an adorable apartment in Surinameplein -Hoofddorppleinbuurt district which was about 15 minutes from the main city, on the 17 tram. This apartment was coordinated by a coworker who had organized an accommodation swap for the holidays. Two families wanted to swap their homes for the holidays; one to New York and the other to Amsterdam. Since my coworkers no longer needed the apartment, she offered it to Marie and I, which was extremely nice. (Thanks Julie).

Surinameplein apartment was offered at no cost except basic groceries and tram transportation, which was pretty manageable. I met the Amsterdam couple and their toddler upon my arrival and was able to pick up the keys and check out the neighborhood. Apartment was located on the 3^rd floor, which resulted in a great workout every time I came in and out, especially with a heavy suitcase. Since Marie could not make it to Amsterdam, the apartment felt like a mini mansion during my stay.  I will say it was nice to have an actual kitchen and prepare my own meals for breakfast and dinner. Lunch was usually in the city, while I navigated the “Dam.”

Many sights around Amsterdam

ALBUM: Amsterdam 2012, Part 1 *********************************************************************************************************************

After a productive week in Amsterdam, it was time to head to Zurich. I restocked my hosts’ refrigerator and left a few items and gifts before leaving on an early flight to Zurich. As per their instructions, I even picked up their mail. I was extremely grateful for their hospitality for allowing me to stay in their home.

Auld Lang Syne: Zurich for New Years

I really did not have many expectations for Zurich other than I wanted to see snow. I knew winter would be brutal, but I embraced that idea; this was one of the many draws to why it was a primal location for New Years. During my time, I was able to take a few tours on my own and with a tour group/ bus. Along the way and whenever I was not eating, or listening to my Mp3 player, here are a few facts I learned:

• Train station supposed to be most beautiful in Europe- close to Bahnhof Quai
• Green church –once for Dominican Monks
• Bahnhofstrasse lined with lime trees during spring which gives off a scent.  The street is open 9am-6pm open. Always closed Sunday
• 12 districts in Zurich, tourists are a ¼ of population,
• Zurich is the economic center of Switzerland
• Parade Palasi- banking center
• Lake Zurich seldom freezes over even when it gets cold;
• The Alps in the background are quite scenic
• Lake Zurich is also the place for fire works on New Year’s Eve
• The Swiss aren’t big on taking risks/ risk takers so they institute compulsory insurance
• Lake Zurich water is qualified as drinkable due to policies which were implemented to stop sewage water from going into lake; however still purified.
• Where you live determines the amount of tax you pay
• 6% live in their own homes-majority rent or lease
• Young families move to greener and quieter areas. So Zurich has a large portion of older/elderly in the city.
• Heart of football world
• Religious freedom does exist. 40% Catholic, 40% Protestant and 20% other
• Approximately 5000 Jews live in Zurich; 30000 students
• And 1 in 10 people has something to do with universities, and it was in fact true for a couple people I met on New Year’s Eve. Same school but both expats didn’t know of each other.
• After New York and Paris, Zurich is the 3^rd in terms of gastronomy and its variety.

Zurich City Limits

ALBUM: Zurich Dec 2012                                    ***********************************************************************************************************************

I would like to report that I encountered no snow throughout my travel even in Zurich, which was disappointing. I guess there’s always next year.

Back to the Dam

Because my departing flight was from Amsterdam, I had one last night to enjoy the city. I rushed back check into the hotel, and joined a tour group around Red Light District. I figured if I were to explore this area, it would be best to do so in the company of others. Besides it beat staying in the hotel, and gave me an excuse to taken in my last official “winter” day before returning back to Abu Dhabi. Luckily, it did not disappoint and I was able to check off a few more things on my tourist list.  

ALBUM: Amsterdam, Part 2 ********************************************************************************************************************* After spending some time there, Amsterdam has established itself as one of my top cities. With the stiff competition i.e New York, London, and Paris- Amsterdam stood out for a variety of reasons. The cold air was refreshing, trams were easy to use, and even the bicycles were enticing; watching the elderly with young kids riding around the city, was eye opening. Every alley and road seemed to have a hidden history, which I unfortunately did not explore to its entirety.  I actually miss walking-something which I had not considered until my recent travels. While Abu Dhabi offers segments of such, it does not compare with any city which is established on a grid.  I am certain in another season such as spring or summer, I would find ways to escape into the tulip fields, enjoy a canal cruise, or visit Belgium or other areas in the Netherlands. This excitement for Amsterdam stems from the fact that I do miss the “urban” city. I will definitely be back again to Amsterdam. A Twist in Reality Somewhere along the way, fate had its own plan. Marie and I never met up as planned and upon my return, literally less than 24 hours being back in Abu Dhabi, bad news began to unravel. Completely unaware of the circumstances, many of us were devastated to learn about Marie’s passing. This was not how I had envisioned concluding my mystical vacation and starting 2013. Marie was such a wonderful and caring person, and often my side kick during my 2012 year in Abu Dhabi. She was a gem and a legend (the latter was one of her favorite words). As the tragic news began to sink in, it was an opportunity to reflect on the last interactions we all had with her.  This brought along several memories, funny stories, and opportunities for deep reflection. As with people passing, it is completely unexpected-serving as a reminder to cherish the relationships and friendships with those you care about.  In the midst of grief and a twist in reality, her passing brought a few of us together and a bittersweet moment to bring her home to Dundalk, Ireland. Interacting with her family, friends, and extended Dundalk community highlighted her life, personality, and understanding of those who greatly influenced her upbringing, and her professional journey. It would be quick to say that attending her funeral brought closure. No ceremony or procession can do such a thing. However, knowing she is home alleviates the levels of grief. Her family will always be in my mind, and she will always be missed. NEXT TIME: Embracing 2013