Our travels have taken the ensemble by plane, from Denver to Iceland to Munich, around Europe by train, both within the cities and between, put a lot of miles on our walking shoes, and even provided some train station practice time.

Getting the group of 18 from point A to point B, via public transportation, has been a remarkably successful experience with just a few close mishaps like Shane sleeping on the second level and nearly not getting off, barely getting the luggage on and off before hearing the whistle blow, and a couple of frantic scurries back on to grab forgotten bags and phones, but all has ended well. Since we are traveling to Sopron, Hungary today, everyone gave quick reflections about the travel aspect of this tour.

Wesley Ferriera – When I think about going on a tour, I think about the traveling part. It’s been easy, nice to have those quiet moments, watching people read, and reflect, and look out the window.

Copper Ferriera – Trains are the way to go! Travel by train is the best and easiest way to go…as long as you have wheels on your luggage and guys to help lift it!

Robert Bonner – It’s my first time being on a train and it’s much less of a headache than getting on an airplane. I wish I could take a train across the U.S. to N.Y., like you can do from Munich to Berlin.

Michelle Stanley – Pack smart and face forward [as opposed to the backwards seats]. Traveling with 18 people is not as bad as you think!

Steve Marx – It’s been great to see the regional aspects of moving between countries on different trains. Even what is offered in the restaurant cars changes every few hundred miles.

Shane Werts – It’s been a great way to get to know people better. I’ve enjoyed getting to know the professors on a more personal level…everything from knick names to the ins and outs of sunglasses.

Tom Bittinger – I love the train system. Very efficient!

Travis Howell (pictured) – The hours between cities are nice because you have a chance to relax, get off your feet, and reflect on all the great things we’ve been doing. I like the moment where you’re finally not rushed and just have time to think.

John Seesholtz – Travel has been fun, and for 18 people, we’ve been doing well staying together. It also provides time to separate, to sit, and be quiet. Tours can be social overload and the travel portion is my alone time.

Jenn Clary – I love watching the scenery go by and taking it all in. The train is very relaxing and soothing; it feels like a rocking cradle. There are very few escalators or elevators, so be prepared to lug a 20 kg suitcase up and down an immense number of stairs – Michelle and I are getting some biceps!

John McGuire – Transportation in Europe is very liberating because you don’t need a car. You don’t have to be responsible for a vehicle, you just get on a train and forget about everything for a while.

Liz McGuire – I appreciate walking more. I’ve enjoyed living in larger cities where it is easy to get around. I travel to Cheyenne for work and wish I could commute on a train. It’s what I miss!

Gary Moody – I love the fact that we left the hotel at 8:15 a.m. to catch a 9 a.m. train (walking). You don’t have to go through security and it left exactly on time. It’s easy when you can count on it happening, and not getting delayed!

Chris Van Hof – I like seeing the dirty underbelly of the famous classical music cities. When I’m traveling around, I’m anxious to arrive in time to Skype with my family and to practice. That’s what is always on my mind.

Sierra Hayden – The trains are efficient, but traveling in a group isn’t always so. I really enjoy having time to read, catch up on emails, and enjoy the views!

Richard Frey – there should be high-speed rail lines everywhere in the U.S. Being here always reminds me how strongly I feel about this! I would jump down to the Springs or up to Cheyenne if it simply meant hoping on and going.

Selena Adams – I love trains and enjoy seeing the different kinds. Riding the city bus in Salzburg was an easy navigation experience. I wish there was a train from Cheyenne to Colorado Springs!

Andrew Jacobson– For me, the train is a time to catch up on my sleep and relaxation.

~ posted by Jennifer Clary