I have ventured out of my room to the hotel restaurant in search of two things: breakfast and an electrical adapter. The last time I was in Europe, I stayed at a hotel that had proper electricity. But Germany runs on 220v and my curling iron runs on 120v, so I was in dire need of an adapter. My hair was dry, thanks to the German-installed hair dryer, but the style..... well... it was "not so much". "So very sorry" the innkeeper says. Heavy sigh on my part, but at least a good breakfast is right around the corner.
As I sit in the restaurant, slowly stirring the cream into my coffe, I look cautiously around and realize..... I think I have taken someone's seat. I thought the pot of coffee came with the table, quite efficient these Germans. But no, I think someone else ordered it. But (I say "But" again, though resolutely to myself) I have served myself some kaffee, and so the table is now mine. The kaffee is in the cup, clear evidence that I belong to this table. Unfortunately, I haven't figured out if this is self-serve or the waitress comes around with a menu (Denny's comes to mind in a horrible flashback). Besides that, I am stuck to the chair in total mortification.
I demurely look around once more. I believe the man whose table I took is seated one table over - enjoying his breakfast that he had planned to eat at this table. Sans kaffee.
It's pleasant to sit and sip my kaffee, listening to conversations that I can't understand. There is some English smattered through the quiet discussions, but it sounds mostly German. Looking through my Berlitz German phrase book is not very helpful. I can't really eavesdrop in true American fashion. I suppose I could try to learn the language, but doubt that I'd have a mastery of it in time for lunch.
No waitress came over. I watched the other patrons and realized (too late) that, just like other European hotels, breakfast was included. One only had to haul one's arse to the other room to find a beautiful array of pastries, meats, cheeses and fruit juices. Oh well, tomorrow, a real German breakfast with hot kaffee. Today, ich habe hunger.
Ciao.
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