Today I returned from a great mini-vacation (long weekend). My parents and I visited my sister, in-law, niece, and nephew in Bavaria. We don’t see each other very often, it’s always great for me to see my niece and nephew grow, and play with them.

The highlight of the vacation was on Sunday, when my father, my in-law, and me went to Insbruck, Austria, on a 5-hour fixed-rope route climbing tour. It was my first outside climbing experience (I only did some indoor bouldering so far), and so I was looking forward to this new experience.

(click for more photos)

It was a “difficulty medium” trail, and indeed it was quite challenging at times. At some spots I couldn’t really climb any more, but had to cheat and resort to clinging to the rope. But it was fun anyway!

The Alps are such a wonderful place for enjoying fresh air, sun, and the nature!