Strasbourg and Freiburg

On wednesday we took the train to Strasbourg. It cost a lot more than when we went on a weekend excursion rate last time. We changed trains at Mulhouse and both trains were fast and smooth. After coffees at the station, a classic old building, now enveloped in a modern glazed bubble, we walked to the old canals area. The buildings around here are the iconic half timbered variety. Many were originally built for the tanning trade. This is a popular spot for the tourists, but we found a quiet area to have lunch overlooking a canal. When it started to rain we had the waitress put up the sun umbrella. Next we walked to the famous Cathedral and admired its magnificent interior. Unfortunately it is somewhat hemmed by other buildings, many of which are quite  interesting though. Last time we were here we took a boat ride around the canals. This time we took the mini train. It gives you a tour of the older areas, which helps rest our old legs.
We took the very modern tramp back to the station and then thyen trains to where we, left the car, Altkirch.
It had been another good day with mainly fine, sunny weather.

For our next act, on the Thursday holiday we drove up past Mulhouse, across the Rhine and into Germany. There is no indication that one has crossed the border, except that the road signs are now in German and sometimes a bit hard to decypher. We went mostly by Autoroute/Autobahn. The speed limit is lower in Germany (120) but some of the cars there flew past at at least 150! Valerie was a bit spooked. She also got a bit stressed when Don drove the wrong way coming out of Freiburg at some roadworks.
We got lunch at one of the roadhouses along the Autobahn. We voted this the best yet.
After finding a parking station in the centre of Freiburg we walked to another Cathedral, as you do, There were lots of buse around,  disgorging plenty of tourists. It was a public holiday here too.
In the Cathedral square we had more coffees and cake (we do eat well) before walking around some more and finding the car again. Don was of the opinion that parking today was free, but after finding that the exit gate would not release us, eventually found where to pay the 5 euros. Just one of those little hiccups that come along when you are a stranger.
Our return was relatively uneventful. We decided not to explore the Black Forest area and perhaps get lost, not having maps of Germany.
Nearing home we were amazed to find that the streets of the nearby village of Illfurth, still had hundreds of cars lining every possible road, footpath, bridge, you name it. They had a street market on - it must have been enormous.
The car has now covered 4 300kms; I expect it will be over 5 000 by hte end of our trip.
Tomorrow Don goes for another blood test and is hoping his levels will be down. After that we may decide to head into the nearby Jura mountain area, with its pictureque villages.