Day 1: Alberta to Frankfurt, Germany
After several cancellations, Lynne is finally embarking on her first Travel Like a Pro adventure! Follow along as we share her trip day-by-day. Since getting there is half the fun, we will start with her travel day.
Lynne travels in style, so she opted to fly to Germany on Air Canada’s Premium Economy Class. Lynne and her friend and client, Leona, enjoyed priority check-in and boarding, 2 free checked bags, and an upgraded meal selection. The service was very different from what Lynne would have expected before covid protocols were implemented. The flight attendants didn’t check in as often and there were fewer food and beverage offerings than Lynne expected. The roomier seating and ability to charge devices made the 8 hour journey from Calgary to Frankfurt far more comfortable.
This particular route left a long layover in Calgary, but Lynne and Leona kept themselves busy at the Aspire Lounge before the main leg of their journey. For $39 they enjoyed comfy seating and choice of food and beverage near the departure gate.
At the end of a long day of travel it can be nice to avoid finding a cab, shuttle or public transit, so once they landed in Frankfurt, Lynne and Leona had pre-booked a private transfer from the airport to their hotel but they missed it due to their luggage being delayed. The airport’s virtual assistant was very helpful and before long they arrived at Hotel Frankfurt Messe. The hotel was clean and bright, with small but comfortable, efficient rooms. Lynne and her companion shared a room featuring two twin beds, warm duvets, a desk space, tv, and of course ensuite washroom. This hotel would be considered in the moderate category- welcoming, spotlessly clean, simply appointed and in a prime location at a reasonable cost. Hotel Frankfurt Messe offers a comfortable place to rest up while spending most of your day exploring Frankfurt. The hotel has a restaurant and lobby bar, and is close to a grocery store, pharmacy and public transit.
A guest room at Hotel Frankfurt Messe.
**Pro tip** Grocery stores are a great place to stock up on basics more affordably than the airport or popular tourist stops. You can find chocolate and everyday goods that make excellent souvenir gifts or purchase basics for breakfast or lunch on the go, reducing your food costs and time spent in restaurants.
After freshening up, Lynne and Leona decided to see old town where they took in the beautiful Christmas decorations and traditional market, just a short tram ride and walk away. They found themselves in a charming pub that dates back to the mid 1890’s (which is not uncommon in Germany’s historical areas). They dined on hunter’s style veal and wine, coming to about 20 euro each. At the market, Leona enjoyed Gluhwein (traditional German mulled wine) while Lynne sipped Bailey’s and hot chocolate. For a small deposit, market visitors can refill a porcelain mug for a couple euro and the mug can be kept as an affordable souvenir.
Dinner in Old Town
Lynne used a bit of restraint while shopping at this Christmas market, knowing there were more opportunities to come! She purchased some candle holders and window decorations to get warmed up.
Hot Chocolate at the Market
After a long day, the ladies capped off the night with a glass of wine at the lobby bar before resting up for tomorrow’s adventures.