Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Travel Meeting!
A meeting for all grade 11 travelers and their parents will be held on Monday, September 6 at 6:30pm. Please notify Sr. Mary if you will not be in attendance.
Friday, August 6, 2010
Time To Plan For The 2011 Trip!!!
The trip is scheduled during the Easter Break (Total of 16 days)
Cost: We are making every possible effort to stay at approximately $4800.00. We attempt to make our trips as all inclusive as possible. This means that the majority of entrance fees, excursion fees, good, hearty breakfast and the majority of suppers are included. The student is responsible for most noon lunches, snacks, water and spending money.
How much spending money is needed? That depends on each family. I encourage the girls to stay within $700.
Transportation: We will be traveling by air and by bus.
Deposits and Due Dates: Payments of $400 are due on each of the following dates....
June 28/10, August 31/10, September 30/10, October 30, 2010, November 30, 2010. These payments are all considered to be "non-refundable". A final invoice will be sent to you directly from the travel agency at a later date.
Cost: We are making every possible effort to stay at approximately $4800.00. We attempt to make our trips as all inclusive as possible. This means that the majority of entrance fees, excursion fees, good, hearty breakfast and the majority of suppers are included. The student is responsible for most noon lunches, snacks, water and spending money.
How much spending money is needed? That depends on each family. I encourage the girls to stay within $700.
Transportation: We will be traveling by air and by bus.
Deposits and Due Dates: Payments of $400 are due on each of the following dates....
June 28/10, August 31/10, September 30/10, October 30, 2010, November 30, 2010. These payments are all considered to be "non-refundable". A final invoice will be sent to you directly from the travel agency at a later date.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Getting Closer to Home
After waiting for so long it is finally time for the countdown; surprisingly, after the Delta flight form JFK to Prague was delayed by 3hrs the group made it back to America with only 1hr delay.
I have phoned Delta Customer Service and they confirmed that everybody made it on the connection flight from JFK to Minneapolis close to being on time (only 9 min delay).
This means the group will stay overnight in Minneapolis and fly out Saturday morning to Saskatoon.
Unfortunately we have not received the name of the Hotel where your daughters will be staying from Delta, so we have to rely on a phone call from the group to provide this information. We do know though, that they will be met by a Delta representative right at the gate who will arrange the transfer to the hotel after they arrive in Minneapolis.
Michael will stay in the office until the group has arrived and he knows that they are at the hotel! He will work in the office tomorrow and monitor the flight and assist if necessary (not that we think we will need this, but…) and I will take off to the airport to WELCOME THE GROUP back to Saskatchewan.
I hope this is the last news I have for you today, but given the situation that we been through a week of constant changes we will keep you posted.
In the meantime, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us otherwise I will see you all tomorrow at the airport
Sincerely,
CARLA KOENIG
Travel Consultant
Lobstick Travel
I have phoned Delta Customer Service and they confirmed that everybody made it on the connection flight from JFK to Minneapolis close to being on time (only 9 min delay).
This means the group will stay overnight in Minneapolis and fly out Saturday morning to Saskatoon.
Unfortunately we have not received the name of the Hotel where your daughters will be staying from Delta, so we have to rely on a phone call from the group to provide this information. We do know though, that they will be met by a Delta representative right at the gate who will arrange the transfer to the hotel after they arrive in Minneapolis.
Michael will stay in the office until the group has arrived and he knows that they are at the hotel! He will work in the office tomorrow and monitor the flight and assist if necessary (not that we think we will need this, but…) and I will take off to the airport to WELCOME THE GROUP back to Saskatchewan.
I hope this is the last news I have for you today, but given the situation that we been through a week of constant changes we will keep you posted.
In the meantime, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us otherwise I will see you all tomorrow at the airport
Sincerely,
CARLA KOENIG
Travel Consultant
Lobstick Travel
The Plane Has Landed!
We received a call at 1:30pm (Friday) from Lobstick travel that the plane has landed in New York! We are waiting on details for the remainder of the trip home. Stay Tuned!
Good Bye Prague!
Just a quick update on the group’s return. Yesterday Delta flight 208 from JFK to Prague was 3 hours late in departing and arrived in Prague 3 hours late. Luckily, they were able to make turn in Prague in about 1 hour 30 minutes as opposed to the usual 3 hours, so we gained back some time. Based on the departure time out of Prague of 12:11PM, Delta at the moment is forecasting an arrival into JFK at 2:36PM (as opposed to the 3:05PM arrival they had on their website an hour ago). If they are able to arrive into JFK, earlier or at the 2:40PM arrival; they may have a chance to catch their 4:00PM departure to Minneapolis. They will be arriving at gate 4 and depart from gate 9, but they do have to clear US Customs & Immigration and security before boarding the flight to Minneapolis. It is also my hope that Delta may delay the flight to Minneapolis as our group represents over 1/3 of their passengers. We will have to play this one by ear as their flight gets closer to New York. Tomorrow morning we will contact Delta Customer Solutions and group department to reevaluate our options. Worse case the group spends the night in New York and flies April 24 in the morning from JFK to Minneapolis to connect with the flight they are already booked on to arrive into Saskatoon at 1:07PM. Best case they make their connection and overnight in Minneapolis. In either case, the group is out of Europe! If she has time, I have asked Sr. Mary to give the office a call once they reach New York. By then we should no where they are spending the night and can advise everyone.
Michael Bayda
Lobstick Travel
Michael Bayda
Lobstick Travel
Thursday, April 22, 2010
As of 7:00pm, Thursday, April 22
I have some good news and some well we shall see news. The good news is that Delta fl#208 JFK to Prague has now departed. The we shall see news is that it departed 3 hours late and now scheduled to arrive into Prague at 10:16AM. Due to the delay your flight from Prague to JFK is now scheduled to depart at 11:30Am arriving into JFK at 2:54PM. Your departure to Minneapolis is at 4:00PM, so the group may have to overnight in New York tomorrow night. This would not affect your return on April 24th to Saskatoon as there are morning departures out of New York that can connect through Minneapolis in time. I should also mention that these are all estimates and airlines have a knack for catching up on delays on long haul flights, so we will have to deal with this in the morning back here in Canada. I am going to grab a couple hours sleep now, before returning to the office around 7am Prague time. At which time, I will try and send you an update, if possible. If you are unable to receive emails, you can call the office at 1-800-665-0171 when you arrive into New York for further instructions. Have a safe trip home!
Sincerely,
Michael Bayda
Travel Consultant
Lobstick Travel
#4 - 150 32nd St. W.
Prince Albert, SK
S6V 7H7
Phone: (306)763-7415
Toll-free: (800)665-0171
Fax: (306)763-1335
Email: mike@lobsticktravel.com
Sincerely,
Michael Bayda
Travel Consultant
Lobstick Travel
#4 - 150 32nd St. W.
Prince Albert, SK
S6V 7H7
Phone: (306)763-7415
Toll-free: (800)665-0171
Fax: (306)763-1335
Email: mike@lobsticktravel.com
Day 22 Thursday
It looks like we are going home. About 80 percent of the flights in and out of Europe are going and we are leaving tomorrow.
This morning we visited the Canadian Embassy in Praha. Alex McNiven, a Candian who grew up in Regina and is still a RoughRider fan, gave us a presentation on the role of the embassy in Czech Republic.
We enjoyed a lunch downtown on our way back and in the afternoon got back to the books. We then participated in a yoga class instructed by Mrs. Sander outside on the terrace. It was very sunny and we definitely got our dose of vitamin D today. Mr. Sander was interviewed by Neal Headrick of CKBI radio about our situation. We hope to be back in PA soon.
p.s. What is the czech word for "spouse"? Czechmate
This morning we visited the Canadian Embassy in Praha. Alex McNiven, a Candian who grew up in Regina and is still a RoughRider fan, gave us a presentation on the role of the embassy in Czech Republic.
We enjoyed a lunch downtown on our way back and in the afternoon got back to the books. We then participated in a yoga class instructed by Mrs. Sander outside on the terrace. It was very sunny and we definitely got our dose of vitamin D today. Mr. Sander was interviewed by Neal Headrick of CKBI radio about our situation. We hope to be back in PA soon.
p.s. What is the czech word for "spouse"? Czechmate
Latest Flight Plans
The good news is that 75% percent of all transatlantic flights between major hubs in Europe and the North America have been resumed. As you can imagine Carla and I have been watching very closely and praying for the ash cloud to move or dissipate. Our prayers have been answered with a change in the winds. Delta’s flight between JFK and Prague departed on Tuesday and returned today with no issues. Given the current weather and volcano conditions there should be no reason for the flight to not operate on Friday. Carla and I will be tracking the departure tomorrow from JFK to Prague. I will be in the office tomorrow evening from 11PM (6am Prague time) until 3:30AM (10:30AM Prague time) to assist the group, if need be.
Now with regards to the scheduled return of the group. I have pasted below the itinerary as it stands at the moment. The group will be departing the hotel on Friday at 6:00 AM (Prague time) on a bus organized and donated by Insight tours to ensure that they check-in at least 4 hours prior to departure. We are not leaving anything to chance. They will arrive at JFK airport in New York at 1:59 pm (Friday, April 23) and depart from there at 4:00pm (Friday, April 23) to go to Minneapolis. Arrival time in Minneapolis is 6:39pm (April 23). The group will have an over night stay in Minneapolis, then depart at 11:45am (Saturday, April 24)and finally arrive in Saskatoon at 1:07pm (Saturday,April 24).
Michael Bayda
Owner/Manager
Lobstick Travel
#4 - 150 32nd St. W.
Prince Albert, SK
S6V 7H7
Phone: (306)763-7415
Toll-free: (800)665-0171
Fax: (306)763-1335
Email: mike@lobsticktravel.com
Now with regards to the scheduled return of the group. I have pasted below the itinerary as it stands at the moment. The group will be departing the hotel on Friday at 6:00 AM (Prague time) on a bus organized and donated by Insight tours to ensure that they check-in at least 4 hours prior to departure. We are not leaving anything to chance. They will arrive at JFK airport in New York at 1:59 pm (Friday, April 23) and depart from there at 4:00pm (Friday, April 23) to go to Minneapolis. Arrival time in Minneapolis is 6:39pm (April 23). The group will have an over night stay in Minneapolis, then depart at 11:45am (Saturday, April 24)and finally arrive in Saskatoon at 1:07pm (Saturday,April 24).
Michael Bayda
Owner/Manager
Lobstick Travel
#4 - 150 32nd St. W.
Prince Albert, SK
S6V 7H7
Phone: (306)763-7415
Toll-free: (800)665-0171
Fax: (306)763-1335
Email: mike@lobsticktravel.com
Day 21 Wednesday
All right, enough of being cooped up in a luxury hotel with nowhere to go.
Today, we worked on more writing- blogs, the travelling story, and English. At 11:30 we went for lunch and saved the receipts with the hopes of being reimbursed by the insurance company.
After returning to the hotel, we took seven taxis to the Prague Zoo for our Biology lesson. The zoo is actually only about 3 km. from our hotel, but there is a river in between. Our taxi ride was a series of zigzag roads; these people obviously have no idea what a road that travels straight looks like. The zoo was great as we spent three and a half hours looking at God's creatures- mostly from this part of the world. We really like the gorillas, monkeys, leopard, giraffes, and flamingos.
Just one more day to go before we can head toward home .... things are lookin' up.
Today, we worked on more writing- blogs, the travelling story, and English. At 11:30 we went for lunch and saved the receipts with the hopes of being reimbursed by the insurance company.
After returning to the hotel, we took seven taxis to the Prague Zoo for our Biology lesson. The zoo is actually only about 3 km. from our hotel, but there is a river in between. Our taxi ride was a series of zigzag roads; these people obviously have no idea what a road that travels straight looks like. The zoo was great as we spent three and a half hours looking at God's creatures- mostly from this part of the world. We really like the gorillas, monkeys, leopard, giraffes, and flamingos.
Just one more day to go before we can head toward home .... things are lookin' up.
Day 20 Tuesday
Today was a pretty darn good day and it seemed to go fast. We started our classes today with more writing around ten o'clock. At noon the adults returned with pizzas from a place called Grosseto. Well, there were far from 'gross'eto. They weren't exactly like Canadian pizzas, but they were pretty good... especially the pepperoni, which actually contained no pepperoni sausage whatso ever.
In the afternoon we had math, most of us learning about exponetial functions, and the rest of us with Sister Mary and Mrs. Sander. At three Mrs. Sander led us in a step aerobic class followed by some weight lifting. After that we walked to the BILLA before a seven o'clock dinner. We had plans to do charades after dinner, but be that time we were so tired we just visited in our rooms and went nighty-bye. Talk to ya tomorrow.
In the afternoon we had math, most of us learning about exponetial functions, and the rest of us with Sister Mary and Mrs. Sander. At three Mrs. Sander led us in a step aerobic class followed by some weight lifting. After that we walked to the BILLA before a seven o'clock dinner. We had plans to do charades after dinner, but be that time we were so tired we just visited in our rooms and went nighty-bye. Talk to ya tomorrow.
Day 19 Monday
Well, we know we are here for sure until Friday, so let's get on with it. Today we started classed with writing our blogs and other English assignments being the morning focus. While the students worked, a group of adults bought food for lunch. Sandwiches, veggies, and fruit were on the menu. Everyone was fed quite well- 29 of us for about $130.00 In the afternoon we concentrated on writing some more, and then we hit the fitness center for an hour. We then had time to visit the BILLA store before dinner at seven. After dinner it was spa time when we treated each other to facials- chocolate and fruit "masks"; we didn't look all that great, but we smelled nice- lots of laughs. Time for more 'MAYTAGS" in our rooms and off we went to bed. Sweet dreams.
Day 18 Sunday
Sunday morning saw a change of scenery as we travelled toward the nothern outskirts of Praha to our new abode - a Crowne Plaza about 15 minutes from the airport. Our first task was to get oriented to our new surroundings by walking about 800 meters on the major street leading south. On the was, we passed several small shops, restaurants, and a BILLA grocery store. At the main square we discovered a KFC and a sub sandwich shop, both of which enjoyed our patronage. This was followed by a search for a laundromat since most of us are out of clean clothes. No such luck in finding one. Many of us then went back to the hotel to catch up on some much-needed rest while others went to explore the area north of the hotel. To the north we found residences and a car sales lots as well as an area that appears to be abandoned since communist times. We think it was a bus terminal or possibly it housed tanks since the hotel we are at was a home for military officials in communist days. Back at the hotel, we enjoyed a late dinner and then many of us washed laundry the old fashioned way in our hotel rooms since we were unsuccessful at finding a laundromat. Tomorrow promises to be a day at school.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Day 17
Today was the first day of being stranded in Prague. Our group had mixed feelings about being stuck here in Europe. Some of us were upset and ready to go home to our families and others excited about the prolonged trip.And maybe some of us were glad to delay going back to school. In an effort to keep our minds off of the current situation we spent our day in the charming town of Czesky Krumlov. It was the typical quaint European town complete with a historic castle, we all enjoyed a wonderful lunch and touring the city on the first sunny day. After the two and a half hour bus trip back to Praha, we then attended our second farewell supper. It was a night full of dancing, singing, and arm movements somewhat similar to a flying chicken. We were served traditional Czech food, which was delicious. It was a great night and when we got to the hotel everyone was very tired and sleep came easily.
day 16, Stuck in Erope
Today our flight was canceled so instead of us sitting in the airport for two hours waiting for our flight we sat in the hotel. Today was a lazy day, some of us stayed behind to catch up on our sleep while the rest of us decided to take a walk around Praha. Nothing else really happened today. Those of us who went on the walk got to see a plastic car from the communist time, and the whole group got to go on a river cruise for supper.
we are all missing home, some more then others, but we're all trying to take it day-by-day because really who could have predicted a volcano in Iceland to spew volcanic ash into the air and cancel our flight back to Canada?
we are all missing home, some more then others, but we're all trying to take it day-by-day because really who could have predicted a volcano in Iceland to spew volcanic ash into the air and cancel our flight back to Canada?
Day 15 One Last Day Of Exploring
Today I woke up with only one day of exploring left.We went down to the Ghetto to where the Jews lived in Praha.In the synogogue women and men were seperated by only a balcony. For dinner we went to a historical and traditional restaurant with dancing, singing, and music.As the night went on we got more and more thrilled to go home. Back at the hotel we just finished packing when the phone rang to report to Sister Mary's room for a meeting.The volcano in Iceland was sending major smoke and ash into the air which was causing all flights to be canceled. Not knowing when we are to return it was time to get a good night sleep and take it day by day.
Day 14
In the morning we started by taking a trip to the town of Kutna Hara. we toured the eiry Bone Church. The bones of forty thousand people were used to form the decorations adorning the church. Afterward we visited another church that was very beautiful and of course- old. After lunch we had free time to SHOP! In the evening we had a chance to watch a show at the very unique Black Light Theater. After a quick ice cream treat we all headed to bed.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Day 11 -13
Day 11
Today we took an early morning bus ride past the remains of the Roman settlement of Aquincum on the way to the village of Szentendre. Here we had some shopping time, and weather that was cooperative. This village is famous for hand carved jewelery boxes that can be custom made. Shortly after, we rode the bus up a mountain to Visegrad castle. Here we enjoyed an amazing view of the river Danube and the mountains surrounding it. After this we ventured on to Esztergom (the former capital of Hungary) and visited their huge cathedral. Later we stopped for lunch, and this is where we gave our tour guide and bus driver (Bernhard and Alex) their gifts which were Canadian jerseys. After this we made our way to the Slovakian boarder, then to the capital Bratislava. There we stayed in the hotel Holiday Inn, which had a pool and a sauna :)
Day 12
Two capitals in one day, Bratislava and Prague.
Early in the morning we set out from our one night stay in the Holiday Inn Hotel in Bratislava. We enjoyed a scenic view of many farms and few trees, it reminded us of Canada. Some of the girls listened to music, while others took the opportunity to "respect their body rhythm"(as Sister Mary refers to sleep).
We arrived in the golden city of Prague and we were welcomed by our tour guide named Lenka. Lenka took us out for a walk around the misty city and we soon discovered how many legends and mystical tales the city offered. For example, there was a beautiful; however, poor young lady, who was granted by the devil a night in splendor with wealthy suitors. In turn she had to give her soul over to the devil. The legend says that she walks the streets after midnight crying searching for men.
However, due to the rain we cut our tour short and went back to the Ibis Hotel.
Day 13
Today after a scenic hour and a half drive, we visited the historical Karlstein Castle. After a tour of the castle, we had some time to walk around the quaint village. Some of us even met Canadians from Vancouver!
After returning to Praha, we were happy to enjoy a private concert, which consisted of three men. Their instruments included a bass, a wooden flute and an accordion. Together they created beautiful music.
Today we took an early morning bus ride past the remains of the Roman settlement of Aquincum on the way to the village of Szentendre. Here we had some shopping time, and weather that was cooperative. This village is famous for hand carved jewelery boxes that can be custom made. Shortly after, we rode the bus up a mountain to Visegrad castle. Here we enjoyed an amazing view of the river Danube and the mountains surrounding it. After this we ventured on to Esztergom (the former capital of Hungary) and visited their huge cathedral. Later we stopped for lunch, and this is where we gave our tour guide and bus driver (Bernhard and Alex) their gifts which were Canadian jerseys. After this we made our way to the Slovakian boarder, then to the capital Bratislava. There we stayed in the hotel Holiday Inn, which had a pool and a sauna :)
Day 12
Two capitals in one day, Bratislava and Prague.
Early in the morning we set out from our one night stay in the Holiday Inn Hotel in Bratislava. We enjoyed a scenic view of many farms and few trees, it reminded us of Canada. Some of the girls listened to music, while others took the opportunity to "respect their body rhythm"(as Sister Mary refers to sleep).
We arrived in the golden city of Prague and we were welcomed by our tour guide named Lenka. Lenka took us out for a walk around the misty city and we soon discovered how many legends and mystical tales the city offered. For example, there was a beautiful; however, poor young lady, who was granted by the devil a night in splendor with wealthy suitors. In turn she had to give her soul over to the devil. The legend says that she walks the streets after midnight crying searching for men.
However, due to the rain we cut our tour short and went back to the Ibis Hotel.
Day 13
Today after a scenic hour and a half drive, we visited the historical Karlstein Castle. After a tour of the castle, we had some time to walk around the quaint village. Some of us even met Canadians from Vancouver!
After returning to Praha, we were happy to enjoy a private concert, which consisted of three men. Their instruments included a bass, a wooden flute and an accordion. Together they created beautiful music.
Day 10
Day 10
Today we took a bus ride out of the city to a Hungarian horse farm. There were lots of different kinds of animals there-not your typical cows and chickens. We saw a massive pig called a Mangalica pig.(They never told us that we would be eating his brother for lunch.) Next we watched an impressive horse show. It was complete with archery, men whipping things and a man riding five horses at once! Our lunch was super bountiful to say the least. There were two huge platters of food for just six girls. We were told by Gabour that Hungarians make tons of food with the expectation that lots of it will be wasted. The food that was sent back could have fed a family of 8 easily. All of us got dressed up for supper at Fat Moe's. This was meant to be a "club" by Bernhard's standards but it turned out to be a smokey old people bar. At least the food was good...
Today we took a bus ride out of the city to a Hungarian horse farm. There were lots of different kinds of animals there-not your typical cows and chickens. We saw a massive pig called a Mangalica pig.(They never told us that we would be eating his brother for lunch.) Next we watched an impressive horse show. It was complete with archery, men whipping things and a man riding five horses at once! Our lunch was super bountiful to say the least. There were two huge platters of food for just six girls. We were told by Gabour that Hungarians make tons of food with the expectation that lots of it will be wasted. The food that was sent back could have fed a family of 8 easily. All of us got dressed up for supper at Fat Moe's. This was meant to be a "club" by Bernhard's standards but it turned out to be a smokey old people bar. At least the food was good...
Day 9
Today we woke up refreshed and eager. We were introduced to our awesome local guide Gabour. He took us to a castle in Budapest. There, he showed us Mathias church and Fishermans Basin. Later on that morning, we went to Hero's square where we saw statues of famous hero's. Then we ventured over to a fancy restaurant, where we had the worlds greatest crepes smothered in flaming chocolate sauce. After our meal we walked to a church and had a private organ concert. Then after all that we went and visited the parliament building. Gabour took us on a lovely tour of it. After the awesome picture opportunity, we went back to the hotel for supper. Later that night, Bernhard took us on a tram and metro around the city to see the illuminated buildings and bridges. With all the excitement, we were all exhausted and had a good night sleep.
Day 8
Today we arrived in Budapest. We were greeted by our tour director named Bernhard. He showed us to the party bus where we met our awesome bus driver Alex. We got to our hotel which was completely round and filled with cute Italian boys. We went to McDonalds before a long relaxing afternoon. Our evening consisted of a Renaissance supper complete with traditional music and dancing. After a long and enjoyable evening we all fell asleep.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Later on we arrived and met a few of the sisters at the convent. They were grateful to have us. After being introduced we got separated into our own dorm rooms. It was a great relief ad great gift because we are always around each other and this gives us a chance to have our own space. Sister Mary wanted us to take a walk to see our surroundings. We walked towards the river that which our Sisters travelled on to get to Canada! It was very peaceful there. Later that evening we were told to go to bed early for we had a long day ahead of us!
Day 6
In the morning we were up and ready to board the bus to Montpezat, Marie Rivier's home town. Upon arriving we made our way to the church, where we were humbly surprised to find THE pieta that Marie prayed to daily as a child. We took a moment of silence, staring at the entrancing statue, reliving our sister's history.
Afterwards we took a quiet stroll through the grave yard, seeing some of the Rivier family. We then started to trek up a hill, thinking that the much talked about mountain was not that bad at all. That is until Mr. Sander turned around and pointed to the 4000 ft mountain in the distance.
So, we climbed up the mountain that Marie Rivier climbed before us, leaving Montpezat behind. After many prayers, we started to all reach the top. Once at the top though, the feelings of relief and accomplishment lessened any pain on our cardiovascular systems.
We reached Thuyet, where we were greeted by a refreshing snack from our sisters there. We saw Marie's home ad walked the streets of Thuyet, realizing once and for all, that as a Rivier student, you just can not help but be affected by this trip.
Day 7
Wednesday morning we had the choice of getting up or sleeping in. It is going to be a relaxing day. The open market came to town. It is time to do some major shopping! All the items seem to be at very good bargains. not to mention, there are very good looking European men here! The food here the past few days have been, well, interesting. We have had dishes from liver to spinach. We try our best to have the courage to try at least a bit of everything. It is time to pack our suitcases yet again so we can start traveling towards the airport in Paris. The sisters packed us a bagged lunch for the road. Our bus ride was 10 hours long. Hardly any of us got a decent amount of shut- eye. We arrived in Paris at 3:30 AM. The largest thought in our exhausted brains was sleep. We were all getting quite cranky. We will be heading towards Budapest, Hungary in just a few hours!
Day 6
In the morning we were up and ready to board the bus to Montpezat, Marie Rivier's home town. Upon arriving we made our way to the church, where we were humbly surprised to find THE pieta that Marie prayed to daily as a child. We took a moment of silence, staring at the entrancing statue, reliving our sister's history.
Afterwards we took a quiet stroll through the grave yard, seeing some of the Rivier family. We then started to trek up a hill, thinking that the much talked about mountain was not that bad at all. That is until Mr. Sander turned around and pointed to the 4000 ft mountain in the distance.
So, we climbed up the mountain that Marie Rivier climbed before us, leaving Montpezat behind. After many prayers, we started to all reach the top. Once at the top though, the feelings of relief and accomplishment lessened any pain on our cardiovascular systems.
We reached Thuyet, where we were greeted by a refreshing snack from our sisters there. We saw Marie's home ad walked the streets of Thuyet, realizing once and for all, that as a Rivier student, you just can not help but be affected by this trip.
Day 7
Wednesday morning we had the choice of getting up or sleeping in. It is going to be a relaxing day. The open market came to town. It is time to do some major shopping! All the items seem to be at very good bargains. not to mention, there are very good looking European men here! The food here the past few days have been, well, interesting. We have had dishes from liver to spinach. We try our best to have the courage to try at least a bit of everything. It is time to pack our suitcases yet again so we can start traveling towards the airport in Paris. The sisters packed us a bagged lunch for the road. Our bus ride was 10 hours long. Hardly any of us got a decent amount of shut- eye. We arrived in Paris at 3:30 AM. The largest thought in our exhausted brains was sleep. We were all getting quite cranky. We will be heading towards Budapest, Hungary in just a few hours!
Friday, April 16, 2010
Revised Flight Change
Once again flights have been canceled and re-booked. The following information comes from Carla at Lobstick Travel.
The group will be staying at the IBIS OLD TOWN until April 18, 2010
Insight will shuttle them from there to the
CROWNE PALZA
Koulova 15, 16000 Hl.m. Praha-Praha 6, Czech Republic
Telephone +420 296 537 111
Reservations include breakfast and dinner.
Carla will arrange for the airport shuttle on April 23, 2010 so you can fly home
Depart Prague DL 209 23APR to JFK at 10.35A arrive 1.59P
Clear US customs
Depart JFK DL2541 23APR to Minneapolis at 4.00P arrive 6.39P
Depart Minneapolis DL3369Y 23APR5 to Saskatoon at 9.35P arrive 10.55P
I would like to have a meeting at the office on Sunday at noon so I have enough time to get more updates.
As per parents outside of town they can call me on my cell 940-7506 or email me for updates,
I will be in the office or with access to my computer all weekend,
CARLA KOENIG
Travel Consultant
Lobstick Travel
# 4 -150 32nd Street West
Prince Albert, SK
S6V 7H7
1-306-763-7415
1-800-665-0171
Fax 1- 306-763-1335
carla@lobsticktravel.com
The group will be staying at the IBIS OLD TOWN until April 18, 2010
Insight will shuttle them from there to the
CROWNE PALZA
Koulova 15, 16000 Hl.m. Praha-Praha 6, Czech Republic
Telephone +420 296 537 111
Reservations include breakfast and dinner.
Carla will arrange for the airport shuttle on April 23, 2010 so you can fly home
Depart Prague DL 209 23APR to JFK at 10.35A arrive 1.59P
Clear US customs
Depart JFK DL2541 23APR to Minneapolis at 4.00P arrive 6.39P
Depart Minneapolis DL3369Y 23APR5 to Saskatoon at 9.35P arrive 10.55P
I would like to have a meeting at the office on Sunday at noon so I have enough time to get more updates.
As per parents outside of town they can call me on my cell 940-7506 or email me for updates,
I will be in the office or with access to my computer all weekend,
CARLA KOENIG
Travel Consultant
Lobstick Travel
# 4 -150 32nd Street West
Prince Albert, SK
S6V 7H7
1-306-763-7415
1-800-665-0171
Fax 1- 306-763-1335
carla@lobsticktravel.com
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
voyage MR 2010
Please enjoy the beginnings of our trip. Technical difficulties and long days prevented us from accomplishing our dreams. We will try to bring you up to date.
Day 1 & 2:
The flights to Europe were on time, comfortable and smooth going. The new to flying were brave and took to flying like fish to water. Everyone braved the airports and are now seasoned travelers. Our friend Andre met us in Toulouse. The city was clothed in brilliant sunshine. Flowers were blooming, birds were singing and the travelers were tired. Our luggage followed us, but one suitcase was ripped. Nothing was lost and the once miserable student had the promise of a brand new suitcase! France welcomed us with beautiful green scenery and hundreds of very small cars, all standard, where oddly enough the smart car fit in quite well. As we drove through the city of Lourdes all the students were in awe of how fast such a big bus could go through such tiny streets. The houses were all weathered but maintained their beauty. While the Perynanees Mountains (the natural border between Spain and France) looked over the town, it made the city breath taking. The group went the grotto the first night in France, and everyone was impressed with the huge crowds of people and the very intense faith the people displayed. The huge churches were lit up making the grotto a truly magical place. Of course the students were all extremely excited for the four course meals, including cheese and bread. French cuisine is known for its awesomeness, but for Canadian girls it presents its challenges and takes time to adapt. Some were braver than others in risking to sample unknown items.
Day 3:
The day started with tours of the churches throughout the grotto, the group visited the underground church where Marie Rivier’s banner is now proudly hung. Next we visited St. Bernadette’s first church, which was very modest but of course beautiful. The church on top of St. Bernadette’s church we visited after, and once again very big and very beautiful. To finish the morning the group prayed the Stations of the Cross, while climbing a small hill. The group all went off on their own to shop in the various shops and eat the great French food. Lunch finished and all the girls went through the castle in Lourdes. The castle was filled with old artifacts and more stairs then most were willing to count. The girls once again got free time after the tour of the castle or better known as shopping time. Later in the evening the group attended a mass in the underground church. Thousands of people worshipped in many different languages. Everyone had their own candle which was lit during the mass, making the entire underground mass full of beautifully lit candles. After the long but joyous mass everyone fell asleep very easily.
Day 4:
We woke up to the gentle rain, and took off to visit the place were Bernadette was born. The family of six lived in this four story house, but their father the best miller in Lourdes had a very big heart but was a very poor business man. The family then moved to the old cachot, an old prison cell. The previously wealthy family was now living in the very tiny cachot which was the only place available at the time. The group visited the tiny room, and was very surprised at how a family of six lived in such a small room. After a shopping break the group all gathered at the hotel to take the common transportation…the bus. While Barry and Shirley decided it would be a new experience to take a French taxi (they were late and missed the bus). The group eventually all met together and walked into the enormous caves lead by a bigger then life tour guide. As Lizzy stated in the caves “It’s like I’m in the discovery channel.” During the cave excursion the group walked through many different caves, took a boat through the cave waters and lastly jumped on a train to the end of the tour. It was a fabulous experience. We left the caves and drove back to Lourdes in the bus, which again drove on extremely narrow roads, not meant for buses. At the end of the night a few people in the group went down to the grotto once again to light a candle in prayer from Rivier. While we were lighting our candle there was a rosary procession happening, making it near impossible to walk through the grotto, but it was a very beautiful sight. After a great amount of waiting for crowds to pass the group finally arrived back to the hotel and went to sleep.
Day 5: We are up bright and early and off to Bourg St. Andeol. No passports were forgotten. Gerald, the hotel manager made sure of that. We did however had to do a search for a camera...the rest of that story will follow! In the process we saw wheere our bus driver lived and worked. The challenge in the hours ahead was to keep the passengers awake. Childhood habits are hard to break! The first big stop was at Carcasonne, the famous and well preserved walled Roman city. "Food can wait. We have to shop!" And shop they did. Quaint souvenirs were many. Finding WC's was also a challenge and no one wants to pay. Cobble stone streets and tiny shops and a beautiful bascilica were experienced by all. In the church we were given the opportunity to listen to 4 tenors enchant us with their music. This was an unexpected gift. Once more we were on the road to Mother Rivier country. (TO BE CONTINUED)
Day 1 & 2:
The flights to Europe were on time, comfortable and smooth going. The new to flying were brave and took to flying like fish to water. Everyone braved the airports and are now seasoned travelers. Our friend Andre met us in Toulouse. The city was clothed in brilliant sunshine. Flowers were blooming, birds were singing and the travelers were tired. Our luggage followed us, but one suitcase was ripped. Nothing was lost and the once miserable student had the promise of a brand new suitcase! France welcomed us with beautiful green scenery and hundreds of very small cars, all standard, where oddly enough the smart car fit in quite well. As we drove through the city of Lourdes all the students were in awe of how fast such a big bus could go through such tiny streets. The houses were all weathered but maintained their beauty. While the Perynanees Mountains (the natural border between Spain and France) looked over the town, it made the city breath taking. The group went the grotto the first night in France, and everyone was impressed with the huge crowds of people and the very intense faith the people displayed. The huge churches were lit up making the grotto a truly magical place. Of course the students were all extremely excited for the four course meals, including cheese and bread. French cuisine is known for its awesomeness, but for Canadian girls it presents its challenges and takes time to adapt. Some were braver than others in risking to sample unknown items.
Day 3:
The day started with tours of the churches throughout the grotto, the group visited the underground church where Marie Rivier’s banner is now proudly hung. Next we visited St. Bernadette’s first church, which was very modest but of course beautiful. The church on top of St. Bernadette’s church we visited after, and once again very big and very beautiful. To finish the morning the group prayed the Stations of the Cross, while climbing a small hill. The group all went off on their own to shop in the various shops and eat the great French food. Lunch finished and all the girls went through the castle in Lourdes. The castle was filled with old artifacts and more stairs then most were willing to count. The girls once again got free time after the tour of the castle or better known as shopping time. Later in the evening the group attended a mass in the underground church. Thousands of people worshipped in many different languages. Everyone had their own candle which was lit during the mass, making the entire underground mass full of beautifully lit candles. After the long but joyous mass everyone fell asleep very easily.
Day 4:
We woke up to the gentle rain, and took off to visit the place were Bernadette was born. The family of six lived in this four story house, but their father the best miller in Lourdes had a very big heart but was a very poor business man. The family then moved to the old cachot, an old prison cell. The previously wealthy family was now living in the very tiny cachot which was the only place available at the time. The group visited the tiny room, and was very surprised at how a family of six lived in such a small room. After a shopping break the group all gathered at the hotel to take the common transportation…the bus. While Barry and Shirley decided it would be a new experience to take a French taxi (they were late and missed the bus). The group eventually all met together and walked into the enormous caves lead by a bigger then life tour guide. As Lizzy stated in the caves “It’s like I’m in the discovery channel.” During the cave excursion the group walked through many different caves, took a boat through the cave waters and lastly jumped on a train to the end of the tour. It was a fabulous experience. We left the caves and drove back to Lourdes in the bus, which again drove on extremely narrow roads, not meant for buses. At the end of the night a few people in the group went down to the grotto once again to light a candle in prayer from Rivier. While we were lighting our candle there was a rosary procession happening, making it near impossible to walk through the grotto, but it was a very beautiful sight. After a great amount of waiting for crowds to pass the group finally arrived back to the hotel and went to sleep.
Day 5: We are up bright and early and off to Bourg St. Andeol. No passports were forgotten. Gerald, the hotel manager made sure of that. We did however had to do a search for a camera...the rest of that story will follow! In the process we saw wheere our bus driver lived and worked. The challenge in the hours ahead was to keep the passengers awake. Childhood habits are hard to break! The first big stop was at Carcasonne, the famous and well preserved walled Roman city. "Food can wait. We have to shop!" And shop they did. Quaint souvenirs were many. Finding WC's was also a challenge and no one wants to pay. Cobble stone streets and tiny shops and a beautiful bascilica were experienced by all. In the church we were given the opportunity to listen to 4 tenors enchant us with their music. This was an unexpected gift. Once more we were on the road to Mother Rivier country. (TO BE CONTINUED)
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Financing of the Trip
That is each student's responsibility. Your daughter will have an opportunity to participate in a few fund raising projects, but the majority of the students in the past have preferred working or coming up with other creative means. We are open to new ideas. Given the ever changing cost of fuel, we may be faced with a change in cost.
In summary:
Airline ticket/tour package approx. $4800.00
Spending money approx. $700.00
Passport approx. $95.00
Mandatory Travel Jacket approx. $45.00
In summary:
Airline ticket/tour package approx. $4800.00
Spending money approx. $700.00
Passport approx. $95.00
Mandatory Travel Jacket approx. $45.00
Cost
We are making every possible effort to stay at approximately $4800.00. We attempt to make our trips as all inclusive as possible. This means that the great majority of the entrance fees, excursion fees, good, hearty breakfast and the great majority of suppers are included. The student is responsible for most noon lunches, snacks, water and spending money. How much spending money is needed? That depends on each family. I encourage the girls to stay within $700. The primary purpose is not meant to be a European shopping trip although girls and moms do love to shop! This is a difficult concept, but my hope would be that they allow themselves to absorb as much history and culture as possible, always remaining open to new foods and experiences. I know that the full appreciation of this experience will only occur years down the road. Souvenirs are important, but they can be very small, inexpensive items.
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