Melk

We came to the town of Melk this morning and then left by lunch time. We took a short trip by bus to the Melk Abbey. It is a Benedictine monastery which was converted from once being a military fort. Unfortunately, we were not allowed to take photos inside the abbey museum and library. However, we could take photos outside and got a good look at the town from above.

As in most of the old towns we have visited, the streets and sidewalks were cobblestones of various sizes. Ellen liked the smooth sections better. While in town we said hello to group blue leader, Michal. He was enjoying an apricot & soda smoothie. Having been Germen-ized (is that a word?), we looked for a beer.

After boarding our ship it was soon time for lunch. It seems as if we are always eating. Nobody starves on this ship. And the food is wonderful.

Next, we sailed through the Vienna Gorge with splendid commentary from Michal. It was a section of the Danube River that featured Medieval castles and beautiful villages along the way.

Being a Sunday today, there were lots of people skiing the river, swimming and boating. Getting a tan seems to be a big deal. We even spotted a nudist on the beach!

BTW, while in Melk, we spotted what looked to be a temporary sculpture of the Tower of Babel. There is a summer festival happening in town. We are not sure about much but everyone dresses in outlandish costumes and has great fun. It must have something to do with multi-cultural stuff.