St. Paul de Venice
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
My Return to the States
Hi Everyone,
It didn't seem right to leave this blog open ended, especially after so many of you kept up with it even when I wasn't able to be as diligent about posting as I'd hoped to be. Rome was amazing, a city so chocked full of history it was almost intoxicating to walk through it. I understand now why when I told people I would be visiting this Ancient city they explained to me you can never have enough time there. Stacy and I did the best that we could and left the city feeling as though we'd experienced as much of it as possible while still taking the time to sit back at a cafe for coffee or enjoy a glass of wine at a table within a Piazza. I would recommend to anyone that visits Rome to take tours, at least of the Vatican and the Colosseum, not only do you cut all lines and see the sites in a fraction of the time but you have a personal guide explaining the history of each establishment to you which of course makes you appreciate what your seeing and walking through all the much more. Its hard to say what my favorite place was there but I would have to say for sure a few of them were as you'd guess, the Sistine Chapel, the Spanish Steps and of course the Colosseum and Ancient Ruins. Each was different in its own right and left a lasting impression. Although I must say the Colosseum and Ancient Ruins probably had the most profound impact on me; such an amazing feeling to know you are walking in the steps of those that existed so long ago. One thing I must mention was when Stacy and I were able to walk along a stone path that was laid with original stones from the ancient city. To know your steps were being placed where so many others had laid their own so many years ago is an almost chilling feeling. A trip to Rome leaves you feeling both nostalgic and fulfilled.
Of course I must mention the food here, which is amazing as it was other places in Italy. We stayed in the Campo Di Fiore region. If you need a hotel recommendation ours was amazing and I would highly recommend Hotel Campo Di Fiore; if you plan last minute you can check online and within 5 days of your arrival can get some truly phenomenal deals there. Absolutely PERFECT location and amazing roof deck! We were able to walk out of our hotel into an open air market that occurred everyday, we'd grab sandwiches at this amazing shop (by far one of the best things we ate the whole trip) and meander about the stalls, stopping to buy fruit and other goods from the local vendors. In terms of location you are perfectly centered amongst many of the amazing sites for both tourist reasons, restaurants and nightlife.
We met two friends while in Rome which helped to make the experience all the more better and we both left Rome thankful that we'd come and ready to sleep in our own bed!
All in all this has been the best thing I've ever done for myself. I've returned from this trip feeling invigorated and even more open minded. The things I've seen and experienced have helped me to continue to learn and grow and left me with a greater appetite to travel to even further regions. I hope some day to return to some of these sites but even more so, to venture to new ones, meet more people and experience what other cultures have to offer. Life is ever changing and you never know what the future holds; if you have hopes to travel someday I suggest you start sooner rather than later.
Now I leave you with one last thought, Carpe Diem or seize the day; hopefully I'll be writing again soon about my next big adventure!
P.S.
If you'd like any advice or have questions about where I've been and the things I'd recommend just ask, I'd love to help you plan your next adventure.
It didn't seem right to leave this blog open ended, especially after so many of you kept up with it even when I wasn't able to be as diligent about posting as I'd hoped to be. Rome was amazing, a city so chocked full of history it was almost intoxicating to walk through it. I understand now why when I told people I would be visiting this Ancient city they explained to me you can never have enough time there. Stacy and I did the best that we could and left the city feeling as though we'd experienced as much of it as possible while still taking the time to sit back at a cafe for coffee or enjoy a glass of wine at a table within a Piazza. I would recommend to anyone that visits Rome to take tours, at least of the Vatican and the Colosseum, not only do you cut all lines and see the sites in a fraction of the time but you have a personal guide explaining the history of each establishment to you which of course makes you appreciate what your seeing and walking through all the much more. Its hard to say what my favorite place was there but I would have to say for sure a few of them were as you'd guess, the Sistine Chapel, the Spanish Steps and of course the Colosseum and Ancient Ruins. Each was different in its own right and left a lasting impression. Although I must say the Colosseum and Ancient Ruins probably had the most profound impact on me; such an amazing feeling to know you are walking in the steps of those that existed so long ago. One thing I must mention was when Stacy and I were able to walk along a stone path that was laid with original stones from the ancient city. To know your steps were being placed where so many others had laid their own so many years ago is an almost chilling feeling. A trip to Rome leaves you feeling both nostalgic and fulfilled.
Of course I must mention the food here, which is amazing as it was other places in Italy. We stayed in the Campo Di Fiore region. If you need a hotel recommendation ours was amazing and I would highly recommend Hotel Campo Di Fiore; if you plan last minute you can check online and within 5 days of your arrival can get some truly phenomenal deals there. Absolutely PERFECT location and amazing roof deck! We were able to walk out of our hotel into an open air market that occurred everyday, we'd grab sandwiches at this amazing shop (by far one of the best things we ate the whole trip) and meander about the stalls, stopping to buy fruit and other goods from the local vendors. In terms of location you are perfectly centered amongst many of the amazing sites for both tourist reasons, restaurants and nightlife.
We met two friends while in Rome which helped to make the experience all the more better and we both left Rome thankful that we'd come and ready to sleep in our own bed!
All in all this has been the best thing I've ever done for myself. I've returned from this trip feeling invigorated and even more open minded. The things I've seen and experienced have helped me to continue to learn and grow and left me with a greater appetite to travel to even further regions. I hope some day to return to some of these sites but even more so, to venture to new ones, meet more people and experience what other cultures have to offer. Life is ever changing and you never know what the future holds; if you have hopes to travel someday I suggest you start sooner rather than later.
Now I leave you with one last thought, Carpe Diem or seize the day; hopefully I'll be writing again soon about my next big adventure!
P.S.
If you'd like any advice or have questions about where I've been and the things I'd recommend just ask, I'd love to help you plan your next adventure.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Florence and Then Some...
Hi Everyone!
I must apologize for being so lax with the blog recently. Italy is definitely the type of country you find yourself immersed in. I would also like to apologize in advance for any spelling errors or word confusion as I now update every blog with an Itouch. I find autocorrect to be both a blessing and a disaster!
But now onto more important things! Florence and Tuscany o and Chianti and then of course of bit of Umbria; and now my inability to keep my blog up to date makes more sense! Stacy and I ended up making Florence our homebase for our travels through that region which was a great decision. We spent 2 days touring the city. We climbed the duomo, meandered through the open air markets, sat awe inspired in front of David (which not to sound cliche is one of the most beautiful things I've ever seen) and of course we've devoted much if our time to doing as the locals do; wining and dining. The wine is indescribable, even the most simple of table wines are far better than anything in the states and spend a little more and you won't be sorry. The food here is also something of an art. Even things as simple as a meat and cheese plate is divine. Of course much of this area is very touristy so for the most part we've eaten and drank where our guidebooks have recommended and they've yet to lead us astray. I also have to mention my favorite restaurant was a place called Mario's; on a side street just off the open air market. The BEST pasta with meatsauce Ive had my entire life! You fight for space with the locals and end up dining amongst eachother and ther is always a wait. Trust me though, this is a place worth waiting for!
We also ventured into smaller towns in Tuscany, Chianti and Umbria. We sampled wines at small family owned vineyards in San Gimignano, Greve and a few smaller towns. We rode a tram to Orvieto, a small town atop a hill in Umbria and attempted to see another known as Cavita de B. (to out dismay the bus didn't run on Sunday so we never got to see it).
On out way to Rome, our final stop, we spent a night in Siena which was my favorite of them all! If you're looking for museums and a true tourist experience then this is NOT the place. Siena was amazing because it was less touristy yet easy to manage. Stacy and I spent all afternoon and evening sitting in the Piazza, sampling some food at this amazing restaurant (o how I wish we could recall the name) and drinking casually amongst the locals. It went all night like that; we changes seating but we stayed and mingled amongst those that lived there and it was one of my favorite nights. Siena is a place not to be missed although a day/night is plenty as the town is small.
Now we are in Rome and I can't believe the trip is coming to am end! Rome is amazing as so many have told us, but Rome is a whole different story so I will write soon on that...
Ciao!
I must apologize for being so lax with the blog recently. Italy is definitely the type of country you find yourself immersed in. I would also like to apologize in advance for any spelling errors or word confusion as I now update every blog with an Itouch. I find autocorrect to be both a blessing and a disaster!
But now onto more important things! Florence and Tuscany o and Chianti and then of course of bit of Umbria; and now my inability to keep my blog up to date makes more sense! Stacy and I ended up making Florence our homebase for our travels through that region which was a great decision. We spent 2 days touring the city. We climbed the duomo, meandered through the open air markets, sat awe inspired in front of David (which not to sound cliche is one of the most beautiful things I've ever seen) and of course we've devoted much if our time to doing as the locals do; wining and dining. The wine is indescribable, even the most simple of table wines are far better than anything in the states and spend a little more and you won't be sorry. The food here is also something of an art. Even things as simple as a meat and cheese plate is divine. Of course much of this area is very touristy so for the most part we've eaten and drank where our guidebooks have recommended and they've yet to lead us astray. I also have to mention my favorite restaurant was a place called Mario's; on a side street just off the open air market. The BEST pasta with meatsauce Ive had my entire life! You fight for space with the locals and end up dining amongst eachother and ther is always a wait. Trust me though, this is a place worth waiting for!
We also ventured into smaller towns in Tuscany, Chianti and Umbria. We sampled wines at small family owned vineyards in San Gimignano, Greve and a few smaller towns. We rode a tram to Orvieto, a small town atop a hill in Umbria and attempted to see another known as Cavita de B. (to out dismay the bus didn't run on Sunday so we never got to see it).
On out way to Rome, our final stop, we spent a night in Siena which was my favorite of them all! If you're looking for museums and a true tourist experience then this is NOT the place. Siena was amazing because it was less touristy yet easy to manage. Stacy and I spent all afternoon and evening sitting in the Piazza, sampling some food at this amazing restaurant (o how I wish we could recall the name) and drinking casually amongst the locals. It went all night like that; we changes seating but we stayed and mingled amongst those that lived there and it was one of my favorite nights. Siena is a place not to be missed although a day/night is plenty as the town is small.
Now we are in Rome and I can't believe the trip is coming to am end! Rome is amazing as so many have told us, but Rome is a whole different story so I will write soon on that...
Ciao!
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Italy - Need I Say More...
Hi everyone!
Italy has been AMAZING so far! I'm not sure what I love more...the food, the wine or the shoes haha. Our plans have changed slightly for the trip so Ill fill you in on what we've been up to.
After flying into Milan we went straight to Venice. Venice is such a beautiful city. Very small and walkable which is nice - makes you truly feel as though you've entered another timezone. I'm happy we got to see the city on the off season because there were still so many Tourists but the streets were not jammed packed as we were told they'd be. Apparently many of the hotels there are located in palaces because of how old the city is and simply how it's set up. Needless to stay, for very cheap Stacy & I stayed in a room that was part of an old palace. It was beautiful and an amazing feeling to be a part of such an historic place!
From Venice we moved on to the Cinque Terre. The Cinque Terre is a set of towns along the nothern Italian coast. Although more touristy now they are still not as highly visited as other parts of Italy. The area is comprised of 5 towns each connected by a single train line. The towns are locates amoungst the hills on the water so needless to say they were all breathtaking & very quaint. They are famous for their beauty and the cliffside hike that links all of them.
Based on suggestion we stayed in Vernazza, the 4th town and one of the largest. From there we completed the long and difficult hike which was (in all seriousness) the most beautiful hike I've ever been on! You don't come to Cinque Terre for the nighlife or the shopping, you come here for the peace and beauty and trust me it's well worth it. I highly recommend any trip to Italy to include this region! If you so happen to stop here eat anything with pesto (the region is known for it) and stop in at the local bar The Blue Marlin. All the locals flock here as well as the tourists. Drinks are cheap and the atmosphere is laid back and friendly.
Eveyone stays in apartments and all the locals rent rooms so take your pick and talk them down in price (at least in the off season).
From there we've moved on to Florence where well explore all of Tuscany. Unfortunately Ill have to save that story for another day....
Ciao
Italy has been AMAZING so far! I'm not sure what I love more...the food, the wine or the shoes haha. Our plans have changed slightly for the trip so Ill fill you in on what we've been up to.
After flying into Milan we went straight to Venice. Venice is such a beautiful city. Very small and walkable which is nice - makes you truly feel as though you've entered another timezone. I'm happy we got to see the city on the off season because there were still so many Tourists but the streets were not jammed packed as we were told they'd be. Apparently many of the hotels there are located in palaces because of how old the city is and simply how it's set up. Needless to stay, for very cheap Stacy & I stayed in a room that was part of an old palace. It was beautiful and an amazing feeling to be a part of such an historic place!
From Venice we moved on to the Cinque Terre. The Cinque Terre is a set of towns along the nothern Italian coast. Although more touristy now they are still not as highly visited as other parts of Italy. The area is comprised of 5 towns each connected by a single train line. The towns are locates amoungst the hills on the water so needless to say they were all breathtaking & very quaint. They are famous for their beauty and the cliffside hike that links all of them.
Based on suggestion we stayed in Vernazza, the 4th town and one of the largest. From there we completed the long and difficult hike which was (in all seriousness) the most beautiful hike I've ever been on! You don't come to Cinque Terre for the nighlife or the shopping, you come here for the peace and beauty and trust me it's well worth it. I highly recommend any trip to Italy to include this region! If you so happen to stop here eat anything with pesto (the region is known for it) and stop in at the local bar The Blue Marlin. All the locals flock here as well as the tourists. Drinks are cheap and the atmosphere is laid back and friendly.
Eveyone stays in apartments and all the locals rent rooms so take your pick and talk them down in price (at least in the off season).
From there we've moved on to Florence where well explore all of Tuscany. Unfortunately Ill have to save that story for another day....
Ciao
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Switzerland & The Beginning of Italy
Hi everyone,
I'm sorry it's been so long since my last post. Slight technical difficulties.
To fill everyone in on recent happenings; Victoria & I after slight difficulty made our way to Geneva, Switzerland. We spent just 1 day and night there. Geneva reminded me of many other cities I'd seen in the past and I was most excited to arrive in Interlaken! First thing next day we arrived in Interlaken where very excitedly Vic & I went to skydive on the Swiss Alps!! I had been once before but Vic had never been. It was amazing!! One of the most beautiful places I've ever seen. If you have any interest in skydiving THIS is the place to do it. I was sad to leave but I can definitely see myself returning and partaking in some of the other extreme sports they offer!
Afterwards we headed to Italy where Vic returned to the states for her first day of work (good luck) and Stacy met me in Milan for our 2 weeks in Italy!! Italy has been amazing thus far & I'll update soon.
Ciao
I'm sorry it's been so long since my last post. Slight technical difficulties.
To fill everyone in on recent happenings; Victoria & I after slight difficulty made our way to Geneva, Switzerland. We spent just 1 day and night there. Geneva reminded me of many other cities I'd seen in the past and I was most excited to arrive in Interlaken! First thing next day we arrived in Interlaken where very excitedly Vic & I went to skydive on the Swiss Alps!! I had been once before but Vic had never been. It was amazing!! One of the most beautiful places I've ever seen. If you have any interest in skydiving THIS is the place to do it. I was sad to leave but I can definitely see myself returning and partaking in some of the other extreme sports they offer!
Afterwards we headed to Italy where Vic returned to the states for her first day of work (good luck) and Stacy met me in Milan for our 2 weeks in Italy!! Italy has been amazing thus far & I'll update soon.
Ciao
Thursday, October 14, 2010
The End to Our Adventures in France
Hi Everyone,
So we've arrived in Switzerland this morning. We'll be staying in Geneve for the night and heading to Interlaken tomorrow morning to skydive on the Swiss Alps!
We truly enjoyed our last day in Nice. We spent the day walking through the local market and buying some of the goods vendors were peddaling, touring Old Town and aimlessly wandering through the city. Victoria and I both agree that Nice was our favorite city which we visited in the French Riviera. It was a blend of the countries which surround it and felt more Greek and Italian than French.
As some of you may or may not have heard the railway union in France decided to strike this past Wednesday. Originally the strike was supposed to last only a day but it is still going on. What this has meant for us has been a very hectic and difficult journey as we moved from the French Riviera toward Switzerland. After leaving Nice we headed to Beaune, a small wine town in France. Due to the train situation we unfortunately spent only a few hours in Beaune before moving on. This was a great disappointment to us as we were very excited for all the vineyard tours. We did at least get to sample some of the local wine and delicassies from the region which were delicious :)
We were very sad to leave France but happy to be able to freely travel once again. I hope that no one ever has to experience the pains of travel through a foreign country on strike!!
Wish us luck tomorrow :)
So we've arrived in Switzerland this morning. We'll be staying in Geneve for the night and heading to Interlaken tomorrow morning to skydive on the Swiss Alps!
We truly enjoyed our last day in Nice. We spent the day walking through the local market and buying some of the goods vendors were peddaling, touring Old Town and aimlessly wandering through the city. Victoria and I both agree that Nice was our favorite city which we visited in the French Riviera. It was a blend of the countries which surround it and felt more Greek and Italian than French.
As some of you may or may not have heard the railway union in France decided to strike this past Wednesday. Originally the strike was supposed to last only a day but it is still going on. What this has meant for us has been a very hectic and difficult journey as we moved from the French Riviera toward Switzerland. After leaving Nice we headed to Beaune, a small wine town in France. Due to the train situation we unfortunately spent only a few hours in Beaune before moving on. This was a great disappointment to us as we were very excited for all the vineyard tours. We did at least get to sample some of the local wine and delicassies from the region which were delicious :)
We were very sad to leave France but happy to be able to freely travel once again. I hope that no one ever has to experience the pains of travel through a foreign country on strike!!
Wish us luck tomorrow :)
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