Breakfast and dinner with Mike and some miscellaneous pictures.

Today is National Independence Day in Poland. I don’t fully understand which or possibly if it is all the independences they are celebrating; but it is a non-working day and a flag flying holiday. They celebrate, though not quite as vigorously as we do on the Fourth of July.

Back to cultural differences noticed throughout my trip. So, not exactly cultural shock, but definite differences.

1. The French I have encountered on my trip, in France and on the Hurtigruten expedition, are interesting. They never enter a room or space without acknowledging us (the others). I think this is very considerate, impressive. Others come and go without a word or acknowledgement.
2. In my few European cities up until now–hotels, apartments and cruise, all use a master key–usually my access key, to control the lighting–saving energy. Really, few lights get turned on and just stay on.
3. Most cars in Norway are electric. Many cars in Poland are electric. Way more than at home.
4. Still so clean; trash cans and recycling bins everywhere!
5. Norway seems like a very wealthy and young country. Everyone young and always bundled up and outdoors–rain, snow, cold or sunshine.
6. Ok, the big one–shock. Am I the only American still using a top sheet on the bed? I have not encountered one in Europe so far. All use a bed sheet like covering/cotton covering over the comforter? Please tell me I didn’t miss this trend! I still use a top bed sheet plus a comforter.
7. Taxis in Norway and Poland are mostly Audi(s) and Mercedes-Benz(s). It has been a pleasure.
8. Trains in Poland are very clean and efficient, seem safe too. I have taken three or four different trains–the EuroCity, the IC–intercity, SKM tricity–commuter train, and a red and white train (don’t know what they call it)–kinda like the trolley in Philly. Again, all a pleasure.
9. Norway, and I went to the tippy-top, was not nearly as cold as I thought it would be. Global warming? My weather has been near perfect so far. Not cultural but concerning and worth noting here.

Dinner at the Grand Hotel this evening. Only two pictures.

Tomorrow is my last day with Mike. I don’t want to leave here and him. Should I stay?