Adventures in Znojmo

Today we took an incredible drive to the Austrian border through the wine region of Znojmo. We managed to find our way through all the little villages without too many detours. Along the road we saw many many roadside religious markers - most were crucifixes. As we continued on our way towards a place called Happy Star Hotel, I commented on the sudden scarcity of roadside Jesuses. The first sign of trouble was the Moulin Rouge that advertised "Gentleman's Club non-stop." The billboard that went with it showed a multitude of topless women in various "come hither" poses. But the horror was soon magnified as we drove through the casino and entertainment strip that blanketed the last few kms before the unattended Austrian border (except for the annoyed and sleepy looking border policeman I disturbed to ask "Prośim? Happy Star Hotel?" Clearly confusing the name happy star with the concept of decadence and kitsch and "happy endings," he directed us back to the casino strip filled with Austrian partyers and their children rampaging through Excalibur and the other amusement parks.) We finally got turned in the correct direction and made it to Happy Star (not a den of iniquity but a very nice hotel) only to find it was booked solid.

We headed back to Znojmo where I had 2 great victories - I managed to speak enough Czech blended with hand gestures and a smattering of Hogan's Heroes German to get us a room in a lovely pension right across from an amazing chapel and church. 2nd victory - I managed to find our way back to our car, which is a huge challenge at times when you are navigating the ancient unmarked alleys. Levi used is brilliant navigation sense to drive our car back to the pension.

Here is a photo of Jindřichův Hradec, where we spent last night.