Welcome to Eastern Europe!

How Exciting!

Slovak Flag

Juliette just joined us last week here in Bratislava.
Bratislava is the capital of the country called Slovakia.  We have to write "Slovak Republic" on our mail so that it does not get confused and sent to other countries - like Slovenia.  This country is located next to Austria and was behind the "Iron Curtain" not too long ago.

Europe

Here is a map of Europe and one of Slovakia so you can see where Juliette is.  We are the Sapp Family and are from Denver, but we are living here for 2 years.  Owen (9) and Hayden (7) go to an American School here with many international students from around the world.  Some of their classmates are from Korea, China, The Czech Republic, Slovakia, Belgium, Russia, the USA and many others.  Owen and Hayden are getting to learn new languages, learn about new cultures, and see many wonderful and historical cities.

Slovakia has several castles.  This picture is of part of the town of Bratislava with the castle on top of the hill.  Kings and Queens used to be crowned there.

There are many castles still in the hills all over Europe.  Most are just ruins now.  Here is one that we hiked up a very giant hill to see.  After climbing to the top, you realize why the castles were built up so high - it would have been very hard for enemies to get to.  Now, the walls are crumbling and trees are growing in the middle of the castle.  It is great to be able to be in the middle of such old history.

UFO Bridge

There are several interesting bridges in Bratislava.  This one is called the UFO bridge.  At the top, in the circular UFO part, there is a restaurant.  We will try to eat there before we move.  You can see the whole city and it is supposed to be beautiful at night.

To get around in Bratislava, we ride Trams.  Because the city is so old, there are not very many big parking lots, so taking the tram is much easier than parking and it is fun!

In Europe, we use money called the Euro.  The 1 euro and 2 euro are coins.  Paper euros start at 5.  They are all different sizes - not like US Paper money!

Our last adventure with Juliette while she was visiting was to a Chocolate Factory across the border in Austria.  Hayden's class got to go, so Juliette tagged along!  In Austria, which is only 15 minutes away, they speak German language.  Imagine if each state in the US spoke its own language!

Here is Juliette at the beginning of the tour.  This sign says "Entrance" and "Factory Tour" in 3 languages - German, Hungarian, and Slovak!

This is Juliette with the class watching a lady wrap small chocolate bunnies in foil.

These are some of the items that the company makes.  They make chocolate Santas, Bunnies, and many other goodies.  These treats are shipped all over the world!

Thank you very much Flat Juliette for visiting us!

We know you will enjoy your adventures through more of Europe and all over the world!

Safe Travels!