We stayed in Miltenberg (photo left) on the Main River, which, according to our waiter on Friday, is quite a busy little town due to cruise boats that stop by on the way down the river. When we inquired about wifi on Saturday morning, the extremely sweet owner of the Hotel Zum Riesen replied that she would ask for the password and have it for us the following morning at breakfast! This was a first. I don't think my husband and I have ever NOT had internet access on the weekend (since there's been an internet!) He usually does some work, and I connect with Facebook and Email. You might be wondering--what about phones. Well, the minute you cross the border from the Netherlands into Germany, you get a text indicating the cost for texts, calls and data. So, we usually keep phone usage to a minimum! |
We spent so much time exploring. We picked pathways and followed them to see where they led. We imagined what it would be like if we purchased something like the building (right); my husband suggested a Harry Potter-like school (since I'm a teacher)! We hoped that it came with an elevator! With the exception of our meals, everything we did was free. No museum fees, no bus or train rides--just lots of walking and talking. When we left Miltenberg on Sunday, we drove to Dusseldorf, and visited the Media Harbor (top photo). On our way to the harbor, we started looking for a restroom (I needed one fast after our 3 hour drive). As we passed by a restaurant (below), my husband heard people speaking Greek through an open window in the kitchen; needless to say we went inside--both for delicious food and a greatly needed pit stop! At the harbor, we also found olive trees. It was a "Greek day" for Greek Easter! |
Now, please don't misunderstand me. My husband and I always love to explore, and love travelling together, but the added relief this weekend of no work, no distractions from Facebook, and even my blog posts (I got really behind in my 30 Day Blogging Challenge--I'm still catching up) was an added bonus, one I highly recommend trying--on purpose! Sunday is the perfect day to unplug yourself from the internet. Enjoy time with your family and friends--talking about things that make you happy. Enjoy alone time--reflecting on what made you happy during the past week, and how you can make the upcoming week even happier. Set attainable goals for yourself, and celebrate meeting them. I had wanted to visit Heppdiel, my Oma's hometown for over 35 years, and this weekend, I did it! |
I leave you with this puzzling picture of the Hyatt Regency Dusseldorf (left); I love reflections, both physical AND mental. Can you spot us looking up for my photo? Pick a time this week where you will make a conscious effort to unplug from the internet. It can be almost an entire weekend, a day, an afternoon, or even an hour. Find a bench, sit down (watch for bird poop) and relax. Let your mind wander--where will you travel next? If you're not traveling, find a park near your home, and enjoy a beautiful afternoon. When will you unplug this week? |