So this time there is no chocolate bar in sight as I write this, but rather a nice tall German beer that I got at the local market for about 60 cents! Welcome to Germany! It feels so nice to be back on the Euro currency and away from the CHF. I never thought I'd say that. Before I describe my adventures in Fussen today, I would like to point out that the Swiss people do not understand the word "Sale". I kid you not, every store has the word sale in it with slashes on tickets and discount signs everywhere. If they think 200 CHF for a shirt is on sale, then there understanding of the word sale is whack. A four letter word that is bound to lure any woman into a store, well not the case in Switzerland. These Swiss people would go haywire if they came to a good Macy's sale! HA!
Okay so after a 6hr train ride from Lucerne, Switzerland I made it to Fussen, Germany. A small town 2 hours outside of Munich. The evening was spent trying German food accompanied with a nice,cold refreshing local brewed German beer. Today I explored the local castles, Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau. Fun fact: the disney castle was modeled after the Neuschwanstein castle (google it). Words can't even describe how amazing the detail and architect that was put into these buildings. I wish I could transport myself back in time to see how these people lived. Anyway, tomorrow its off to Munich. This beer girl is very excited to go to the Hofbrauhaus and drink up while taking in the German culture!
To everyone back home, have a safe and wonderful 4th of July! Definitely missing somethings about the states!
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Switzerland
As I sit here and drink my cappuccino as well as munch down on some good ole' Toblerone Swiss chocolate, I will try to recap the past few days in Switzerland.
After our few nights in Venice, Ian and I made our way to Lake Como for the evening. A few train rides later, I look up and see the beautiful lake from the train car. I immediately stick my head out the train window like a dog and start snapping photos of the lake. Unfortunately, the weather was overcast and sprinkling, but it was still beautiful! Once in Veranna ( the train stop in Lake Como), we hop on a quick ferry across the lake to our hostel. Although the hostel was a dump like the others, it was a perfect location right on the lake with a beautiful view! With some time to kill before we could check in, Ian and I explored the town (Menaggio)...which took an entire 10 minutes or so. Therefore, found some cheap beers as usual and posted it on a bench and took in the view! The next morning was sunny without a cloud in sight. Of course the day of departure is always the best weather.
The traveling day from Lake Como to Interlaken, Switzerland was about 8 hrs after 3 or 4 train rides, another long day. Switzerland is amazing, definitely a change from Italy. New people, new language, new architecture, new sights, etc.Ian and I found ourselves talking Italian to the people in the stores on accident, forgetting we were in a different country. People in Switzerland speak "Swiss-German", however, I found out that depending where you are in the country the dialect of German can change dramatically! Although the country is absolutely beautiful, the rumors about it being expensive are so true! After arriving, I exchanged some USD for some CHF. I knew I would hurt from the exchange rate, however, I didn't know that things in general would cost so much. For example, an average run of the mill dinner plate at home costs about $10-15. Here in Switzerland its 25 CHF on the cheap end...thats like 30USD for just a burger and fries. Immediately, Ian and I knew we would have to find a way to make our money stretch a little bit longer in Switzerland. Its unfortunate things are so expensive, takes away from trying some of the food and experiencing the culture. But we have still explored and made the most of it, deciding where we would should invest our money in!
Yesterday was spent taking a ferry to a nearby lake, Lake Thunersee. From there we hopped on and off the ferry in different locations(Beatushohlen & Spiez) walking around and exploring. Took a beautiful walk around parts of the lake, then hopped on the train to explore Thun. The evening ended with making dinner with new friends from the hostel. (Before dinner we went to the store to get some wine and things for dinner, where I ended up getting yelled at in German by the cashier. Ian had told me to place the loaf of bread that was fully wrapped in this microwave/oven looking thing to warm it up. Without thinking twice, I put the bread in hoping to warm it up. A few seconds later the cashier is yelling at me in front of all the people in line. I immediately raise my hands and say "Sorry, sorry, sorry". Of course with my face turning bright red...Thanks Ian. ha! ) I swear German has to be the hardest language to learn. It honestly looks like they just take a bunch of letters and scramble them together. And when they talk, it sounds like they have a hairball in their mouth...haha. Interesting to say the least!
Anyway, I would have to say today's adventures will by far be the highlight of our stay in Switzerland. Ian and I both agreed that you can't go to Switzerland without going up to the Swiss Alps. Deciding it would be worth the many CHF we buy our tickets this morning to go to Jungfrau. Jungfrau is one of the main summits in the Bernese Alps. It is known as the "Top of Europe" because it is the highest point in all of Europe reaching 11,333 ft(3454 m) above sea level! After bundling up whatever layers we could find ( definitely not prepared for snow- wishing I didn't leave my jacket behind in Florence) and a 2 1/2 hr train ride up, we arrive in Jungfrau. At the top it was 3 degrees Celsius= 37 degrees Fahrenheit and not a cloud in sight! The most perfect day to go up there! Snapping millions of pictures like the other tourists around, we explore the Spinx, Ice Plateau, and Ice caves! The views were absolutely remarkable. I am proud to say I have not only been to Switzerland, but been to the highest point in Europe! SO COOL! ( Ill post pictures and video clips on my facebook soon...)
Well, my Toblerone chocolate bar is gone, without a crumb in sight. Time to wrap up this blog..last night in Interlaken then off to Luzern tomorrow. Only 2 more days in Switzerland, then off to another country..GERMANY :)
After our few nights in Venice, Ian and I made our way to Lake Como for the evening. A few train rides later, I look up and see the beautiful lake from the train car. I immediately stick my head out the train window like a dog and start snapping photos of the lake. Unfortunately, the weather was overcast and sprinkling, but it was still beautiful! Once in Veranna ( the train stop in Lake Como), we hop on a quick ferry across the lake to our hostel. Although the hostel was a dump like the others, it was a perfect location right on the lake with a beautiful view! With some time to kill before we could check in, Ian and I explored the town (Menaggio)...which took an entire 10 minutes or so. Therefore, found some cheap beers as usual and posted it on a bench and took in the view! The next morning was sunny without a cloud in sight. Of course the day of departure is always the best weather.
The traveling day from Lake Como to Interlaken, Switzerland was about 8 hrs after 3 or 4 train rides, another long day. Switzerland is amazing, definitely a change from Italy. New people, new language, new architecture, new sights, etc.Ian and I found ourselves talking Italian to the people in the stores on accident, forgetting we were in a different country. People in Switzerland speak "Swiss-German", however, I found out that depending where you are in the country the dialect of German can change dramatically! Although the country is absolutely beautiful, the rumors about it being expensive are so true! After arriving, I exchanged some USD for some CHF. I knew I would hurt from the exchange rate, however, I didn't know that things in general would cost so much. For example, an average run of the mill dinner plate at home costs about $10-15. Here in Switzerland its 25 CHF on the cheap end...thats like 30USD for just a burger and fries. Immediately, Ian and I knew we would have to find a way to make our money stretch a little bit longer in Switzerland. Its unfortunate things are so expensive, takes away from trying some of the food and experiencing the culture. But we have still explored and made the most of it, deciding where we would should invest our money in!
Yesterday was spent taking a ferry to a nearby lake, Lake Thunersee. From there we hopped on and off the ferry in different locations(Beatushohlen & Spiez) walking around and exploring. Took a beautiful walk around parts of the lake, then hopped on the train to explore Thun. The evening ended with making dinner with new friends from the hostel. (Before dinner we went to the store to get some wine and things for dinner, where I ended up getting yelled at in German by the cashier. Ian had told me to place the loaf of bread that was fully wrapped in this microwave/oven looking thing to warm it up. Without thinking twice, I put the bread in hoping to warm it up. A few seconds later the cashier is yelling at me in front of all the people in line. I immediately raise my hands and say "Sorry, sorry, sorry". Of course with my face turning bright red...Thanks Ian. ha! ) I swear German has to be the hardest language to learn. It honestly looks like they just take a bunch of letters and scramble them together. And when they talk, it sounds like they have a hairball in their mouth...haha. Interesting to say the least!
Anyway, I would have to say today's adventures will by far be the highlight of our stay in Switzerland. Ian and I both agreed that you can't go to Switzerland without going up to the Swiss Alps. Deciding it would be worth the many CHF we buy our tickets this morning to go to Jungfrau. Jungfrau is one of the main summits in the Bernese Alps. It is known as the "Top of Europe" because it is the highest point in all of Europe reaching 11,333 ft(3454 m) above sea level! After bundling up whatever layers we could find ( definitely not prepared for snow- wishing I didn't leave my jacket behind in Florence) and a 2 1/2 hr train ride up, we arrive in Jungfrau. At the top it was 3 degrees Celsius= 37 degrees Fahrenheit and not a cloud in sight! The most perfect day to go up there! Snapping millions of pictures like the other tourists around, we explore the Spinx, Ice Plateau, and Ice caves! The views were absolutely remarkable. I am proud to say I have not only been to Switzerland, but been to the highest point in Europe! SO COOL! ( Ill post pictures and video clips on my facebook soon...)
Well, my Toblerone chocolate bar is gone, without a crumb in sight. Time to wrap up this blog..last night in Interlaken then off to Luzern tomorrow. Only 2 more days in Switzerland, then off to another country..GERMANY :)
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
The Laundry Mat
After a week of dirty laundry compiled, it was time to wash our clothes in Venice. What I thought would be an ordinary trip to a laundry mat, turned into a much deeper meaningful day. First lets set the stage. Ian and I lugged our clothes in a plastic bag and backpack to a local Venetian laundry mat. After arriving there and realizing it cost 6Euros just for one wash, I counted my Euros and planned out how much I could make my money stretch for the wash and as well as my next meal. You know you’re broke when you throw in your white and darks in one wash, not caring what they will look like after. Once our laundry started, we had thirty minutes to kill and decided a nice cold beer would help pass the time. A few blocks away we find a nice sweet, older Italian man who works at a “Tabbachi” ( kind of like a 7/11). Only 1.70 Euro for a Danish tall boy, we grab two! ( Granted I contemplated over drinking a beer or drying my clothes; definitely had to go for the beer! Haha) The minute we walked away I had told Ian there was something about the man that seemed so kind and sweet. Little did we know…
We went back to the laundry mat to throw our clothes in the dryer . Another 30 minutes to kill. What to do? Since Ian felt a little parched and wanted another beer, we decided to head back to the sweet Italian man to get another. What we thought would be a 2 minute conversation turned into 30. The man, Umberto, has worked in the store for 45 years. He discussed to us the importance of traveling and seeing things. He has been all over Europe in a car, for he said the “trains” and “airplanes” take to “too long”.(In my eyes, he seemed a little scared of flying…it’s a pity because he could see so much more if he hopped on a plane) And in each new place, he had met wonderful people who have become friends and have helped him later. I was in awe of his stories along with his wisdom and insight he gave us. He told the both of us that one day we are going to be famous. However, he said being famous to him is someone who has a job that can provide for themselves and their family, but most importantly its about being happy! It made me think about my own future and where I will be within the next five years, let alone the next year. Maybe I should take the time now and go volunteer or help children in another country? I don’t know, just a thought. It makes me anxious and excited to think about the future. I am trying real hard to enjoy myself now and not think about it until I get home. Today’s troubles of navigating through Venice are enough!
Tomorrow I head to Lake Como for the night!
Ciao!
We went back to the laundry mat to throw our clothes in the dryer . Another 30 minutes to kill. What to do? Since Ian felt a little parched and wanted another beer, we decided to head back to the sweet Italian man to get another. What we thought would be a 2 minute conversation turned into 30. The man, Umberto, has worked in the store for 45 years. He discussed to us the importance of traveling and seeing things. He has been all over Europe in a car, for he said the “trains” and “airplanes” take to “too long”.(In my eyes, he seemed a little scared of flying…it’s a pity because he could see so much more if he hopped on a plane) And in each new place, he had met wonderful people who have become friends and have helped him later. I was in awe of his stories along with his wisdom and insight he gave us. He told the both of us that one day we are going to be famous. However, he said being famous to him is someone who has a job that can provide for themselves and their family, but most importantly its about being happy! It made me think about my own future and where I will be within the next five years, let alone the next year. Maybe I should take the time now and go volunteer or help children in another country? I don’t know, just a thought. It makes me anxious and excited to think about the future. I am trying real hard to enjoy myself now and not think about it until I get home. Today’s troubles of navigating through Venice are enough!
Tomorrow I head to Lake Como for the night!
Ciao!
Cinque Terre= Stairmaster
Cinque Terre - a chunk of the Italian Riviera, located Northwest of Rome and is made up of 5 small, quaint towns. Cinque means five in Italian. The area off the coast known as “the five lands” is quite remarkable. With a view of the coastline as we pulled into the train station, I knew I already liked it. Starting from the north and working your way down south, the five towns are : Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. I stayed in Monterosso for two nights. Monterosso is known to be the “beach and resort” scene. Not the typical beach and resort scene, as it only took me ten minutes to stroll through the entire town. Although very small, it was absolutely beautiful. Like everything else in Europe, sitting on the beach doesn’t come free. With no towel and no euro to spare, I spent a lovely afternoon posted on a bench reading a book with the ocean view in front of me. This happened only after a rigorous exercise in the morning. One of the main attractions or “things to do” while visiting Cinque Terre is the 7 mile hike along the coast that goes from town to town. Ian and I started early one morning from Monterosso and made our way to Corniglia hiking along the coastline. Not as difficult as our Tuscany bike ride, but still quite the workout. Just from Monterosso to Corniglia was 8km..my guess around 5 miles. We would have continued to the last 2 towns, but it was closed due to a landslide. As each step grew steeper, the views became more magnificent than the last!!! I’d like to say I’m keeping “fit” with all the exercise we are getting in, but my sweet tooth wins every time I walk past a gelato stand after dinner! J
The last night in Cinque Terre was spent in Corniglia. Another very cute town. However, much smaller than the others with only 240 residents. This is the only town that is not on the water, yet I think one of my favorites.
All in all, Cinque Terre has been one of my favorite places in Italy along with Positano, Amalfi Coast, and Florence….okay okay so many to choose from! We’ll see what Venice has in store….
Cheers!
Friday, June 17, 2011
Tuscany
Okay so it has been a few days since my last post...In a nut shell Florence was amazing. I was fortunate with beautiful weather during our 3 days there. We saw the sights at a very leisurely pace while also running into the Jersey Shore crew a few times.ha! One of my favorite adventures in Florence was an evening spent overlooking the city with the company of friends we had met at our previous hostel. Spent a few Euros on some bottles of Chianti wine and took it to the Piazza Michelangelo to see the entire city of Firenze.
On the morning of the 15th, Ian and I were picked up in Florence to begin our bike tour through Tuscany. Just a short thirty minute car ride outside of Florence and we were in the beautiful, green rolling hills of Italy's countryside. The man, Mateo, who picked us up from Florence took us to a garage in Tuscany to pick up our bikes. On the bikes held little panniers to carry our things throughout the day and evening, seeing as the company was going to keep our backpacks for the two days and drop them off at our last destination. So with only a clean pair of underwear and toothbrush on us, we were off on our bike ride! The first 4km or so Mateo rode with us as we made our way to our first winery! Ah! We stopped at a beautiful Chianti winery called Principe Corsini. The 600 acre winery is covered with thousands of olives and grapes! A forty minute tour later we were a little bit more knowledgeable on the process of wine making, as well as olive oil. After the tour of the winery, we had an amazing four course meal (along with wine tasting) inside the lobby area. Our first meal was a capri cheese dish, followed by risotto and zucchini, pasta, and then of course a chocolate souffle. Oh and you can't forget a cafe after! With a full belly, it was time to leave Mateo and begin our bike adventures on our own with only the directions given to us.
The first day consisted of 15 miles (27 km). The 15 miles was not the challenge, but the "gentle" hills of Tuscany. "Gentle" hills, my ass. More like a climb up a massive hill! While changing gears and pushing my little legs as hard as I could, I kept just telling myself" you can do it. you can do it". Mind over matter, right? The 15 mile ride ended in Greve in Chianti. A cute, quaint little town in Tuscany. After a much needed nap, the evening ended with some more wine tasting at a local wine shop in the town. LeCantine diGreveinChianti was the name of the shop. In my eyes, a candy store for adults :) The store is filled with a 100 different wines. Within the store there are several round stations with wine bottles under these machines. In order to taste the wine, you buy a card with money on it and then you insert it into the machine and place your glass under the drip system where it pours wine into your glass and then deducts money from your card. The tastings ranged from .60euro to 4.00 euro. Seeing as we only had 45minutes before they closed shop, we had to drink fast! I probably tasted over 25 wines...lets just say it was the best 10 Euros spent yet!!
The next morning began with a large breakfast to give us energy for our day 2 of the bike ride, 27 miles (44km). The previous night we had met a married couple from New Zealand in their fifties who we shared our travel stories with. The wise couple had asked if I had cycling shorts for the bike ride, since I was telling them how my bottom was sore from the first day of the ride. I chuckled and then replied with a no, thinking I didn't need them. The two had laughed at me and then had made a comment about my age and being young and dumb. ( Lets just say I should of listened to them old folks...my bottom was very very tender the next day due to the tiny, hard bike seat. A word from the wise...BUY CYCLING shorts before any long bike ride. It is worth it! ) Anyway, the 27 miles was more than a challenge seeing as there was maybe only 4 miles of it downhill. Each quick descent, was followed with the unbearable image of the next large rolling hill coming my way. It was a love/hate relationship on those hills...loving the experience, the views, and the adventure as I road along these tiny roads with cars zooming around me on the tight corners...but hating the incline! Along the 27 mile ride, we were able to stop at two very cool towns. The first one was Panzano, four miles south of Greve. Panzano was originally a medieval castle. One of the most famous citizens in Panzano is Dario(the most famous butcher), the Michelangelo of meat. The next town we stopped in was Castellina, another medieval village.
The bike ride ended in Siena. Of course the last 3km had to be the most adventurous as we weaved our way on bikes through the narrow,cobble stoned roads crowded with people and tourists trying to find our place. It was quite a site to see ! I tried yelling "Me Scusi" as I finagled my way around the people! Haha this vague blog doesn't even begin to describe the scene! But just try to imagine it!
All in all, the bike ride through Tuscany was worth every penny as well as pain! I am so proud of myself for accomplishing 42 miles through the Tuscany hills and villages! I can definitely check it off the bucket list!! If anyone has the opportunity to visit Tuscany, consider doing a bike ride . I reccommend Charnes Tours( google it)...just invest in some Cycling shorts ;)
xox
ME
On the morning of the 15th, Ian and I were picked up in Florence to begin our bike tour through Tuscany. Just a short thirty minute car ride outside of Florence and we were in the beautiful, green rolling hills of Italy's countryside. The man, Mateo, who picked us up from Florence took us to a garage in Tuscany to pick up our bikes. On the bikes held little panniers to carry our things throughout the day and evening, seeing as the company was going to keep our backpacks for the two days and drop them off at our last destination. So with only a clean pair of underwear and toothbrush on us, we were off on our bike ride! The first 4km or so Mateo rode with us as we made our way to our first winery! Ah! We stopped at a beautiful Chianti winery called Principe Corsini. The 600 acre winery is covered with thousands of olives and grapes! A forty minute tour later we were a little bit more knowledgeable on the process of wine making, as well as olive oil. After the tour of the winery, we had an amazing four course meal (along with wine tasting) inside the lobby area. Our first meal was a capri cheese dish, followed by risotto and zucchini, pasta, and then of course a chocolate souffle. Oh and you can't forget a cafe after! With a full belly, it was time to leave Mateo and begin our bike adventures on our own with only the directions given to us.
The first day consisted of 15 miles (27 km). The 15 miles was not the challenge, but the "gentle" hills of Tuscany. "Gentle" hills, my ass. More like a climb up a massive hill! While changing gears and pushing my little legs as hard as I could, I kept just telling myself" you can do it. you can do it". Mind over matter, right? The 15 mile ride ended in Greve in Chianti. A cute, quaint little town in Tuscany. After a much needed nap, the evening ended with some more wine tasting at a local wine shop in the town. LeCantine diGreveinChianti was the name of the shop. In my eyes, a candy store for adults :) The store is filled with a 100 different wines. Within the store there are several round stations with wine bottles under these machines. In order to taste the wine, you buy a card with money on it and then you insert it into the machine and place your glass under the drip system where it pours wine into your glass and then deducts money from your card. The tastings ranged from .60euro to 4.00 euro. Seeing as we only had 45minutes before they closed shop, we had to drink fast! I probably tasted over 25 wines...lets just say it was the best 10 Euros spent yet!!
The next morning began with a large breakfast to give us energy for our day 2 of the bike ride, 27 miles (44km). The previous night we had met a married couple from New Zealand in their fifties who we shared our travel stories with. The wise couple had asked if I had cycling shorts for the bike ride, since I was telling them how my bottom was sore from the first day of the ride. I chuckled and then replied with a no, thinking I didn't need them. The two had laughed at me and then had made a comment about my age and being young and dumb. ( Lets just say I should of listened to them old folks...my bottom was very very tender the next day due to the tiny, hard bike seat. A word from the wise...BUY CYCLING shorts before any long bike ride. It is worth it! ) Anyway, the 27 miles was more than a challenge seeing as there was maybe only 4 miles of it downhill. Each quick descent, was followed with the unbearable image of the next large rolling hill coming my way. It was a love/hate relationship on those hills...loving the experience, the views, and the adventure as I road along these tiny roads with cars zooming around me on the tight corners...but hating the incline! Along the 27 mile ride, we were able to stop at two very cool towns. The first one was Panzano, four miles south of Greve. Panzano was originally a medieval castle. One of the most famous citizens in Panzano is Dario(the most famous butcher), the Michelangelo of meat. The next town we stopped in was Castellina, another medieval village.
The bike ride ended in Siena. Of course the last 3km had to be the most adventurous as we weaved our way on bikes through the narrow,cobble stoned roads crowded with people and tourists trying to find our place. It was quite a site to see ! I tried yelling "Me Scusi" as I finagled my way around the people! Haha this vague blog doesn't even begin to describe the scene! But just try to imagine it!
All in all, the bike ride through Tuscany was worth every penny as well as pain! I am so proud of myself for accomplishing 42 miles through the Tuscany hills and villages! I can definitely check it off the bucket list!! If anyone has the opportunity to visit Tuscany, consider doing a bike ride . I reccommend Charnes Tours( google it)...just invest in some Cycling shorts ;)
xox
ME
Sunday, June 12, 2011
City Life
A 3hr and 45 minute train ride later, we arrive in Florence. Ah! Spending four days in Rome was nice, but the minute I arrived in Florence it was as if a weight had been lifted off my shoulders! ( Okay okay ...I shouldn't be complaining I just spent the last 4 days in Rome, totally awesome!) But Rome, just like any other big city, was another confirmation to why as I could never live in one. The fast pace, crowded streets, hustle and bustle is fun to visit for a day or two, but it can be quite exhausting. Florence does not have that vibe! It's relaxed cobble stone streets are filled with people who give off a much slower pace life.
Only a ten minute walk from the train station and we find our hostel : Academy Hostel. Once again, a breathe of fresh air as we get buzzed into the big wooden door of the entrance. Not only does the place provide breakfast in the morning, snacks during the evening, laundry services (all the above saying us a few euros)...but its CLEAN!!I was itching to get out of our hostel in Rome. The Yellow Hostel in Rome was a dump! All I can say is thank god for my shower sandals and sleep sack! Oh and can not forget hand sanitizer..ha ha :)
Tomorrows agenda: Hopping on a bus to go to Pisa ( everything will be closed in Florence as it is some religious holiday)
Well that is all for now...I need to finish this glass of vino and do some laundry! After 10 days of re-wearing clothes, I think its time to wash! ;)
Ciao!
Only a ten minute walk from the train station and we find our hostel : Academy Hostel. Once again, a breathe of fresh air as we get buzzed into the big wooden door of the entrance. Not only does the place provide breakfast in the morning, snacks during the evening, laundry services (all the above saying us a few euros)...but its CLEAN!!I was itching to get out of our hostel in Rome. The Yellow Hostel in Rome was a dump! All I can say is thank god for my shower sandals and sleep sack! Oh and can not forget hand sanitizer..ha ha :)
Tomorrows agenda: Hopping on a bus to go to Pisa ( everything will be closed in Florence as it is some religious holiday)
Well that is all for now...I need to finish this glass of vino and do some laundry! After 10 days of re-wearing clothes, I think its time to wash! ;)
Ciao!
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Roma
Spent my last day in Rome wandering around and getting lost. The city is so big with so much to see! Over the course of the 4 days that we have been here we have seen quite a lot. Every morning has been an early one with lots of walking around to the monuments. Therefore, having no agenda today we hopped on a bus and decided to search for a market. We stumbled upon a really cool indoor market filled with fresh fruits, veggies, meat, bread, etc. Picked up some fresh bread, salami, and some big Peroni beers. We took the food to a local bench and posted it for a good 30 minutes while eating,drinking, and people watching! Ah! The day was followed with roaming the streets and shops. Perfect way to end our stay here!
Over the past few days these are some of the things I've seen:
-Spanish Steps
-Trevi Fountain
-Colosseum ( Went to the Colosseum several times. The first time we just took photos outside. Outside the Colosseum, as well as other streets near it there are these guys that dress up as gladiators where you can take pictures with them . Aka tourist trap where you end up paying them for the photo. Well they are pretty smooth at getting your camera from you and snapping a few photos, and before you know it your down 20 Euro for just one picture!! This happened to Ian and I, and clearly we weren't going to give the guy 20 Euros..ended up walking away giving him 1.30 Euro! HA..the poor guy got screwed. It was quite comical, as well as watching other tourists fall for it. One minute they are smiling and joking around, and the next their expressions drop to a frown of confusion and frustration realizing they fell for the scam!)
-Vatican
-Sistine Chapel
-Ruins
-Pantheon
-Column of Trajan
-Plazza de Repubblicia
-Victor Emmanual Monument
Looking forward to heading north to Florence for a few days!
xoxo
Ciao!
Over the past few days these are some of the things I've seen:
-Spanish Steps
-Trevi Fountain
-Colosseum ( Went to the Colosseum several times. The first time we just took photos outside. Outside the Colosseum, as well as other streets near it there are these guys that dress up as gladiators where you can take pictures with them . Aka tourist trap where you end up paying them for the photo. Well they are pretty smooth at getting your camera from you and snapping a few photos, and before you know it your down 20 Euro for just one picture!! This happened to Ian and I, and clearly we weren't going to give the guy 20 Euros..ended up walking away giving him 1.30 Euro! HA..the poor guy got screwed. It was quite comical, as well as watching other tourists fall for it. One minute they are smiling and joking around, and the next their expressions drop to a frown of confusion and frustration realizing they fell for the scam!)
-Vatican
-Sistine Chapel
-Ruins
-Pantheon
-Column of Trajan
-Plazza de Repubblicia
-Victor Emmanual Monument
Looking forward to heading north to Florence for a few days!
xoxo
Ciao!
Friday, June 10, 2011
The American Dream
It's been a week since I have been gone, and although I have only been to two hostels I have picked up on something very quickly.
What is your name? What do you do for a living? Where do you live? Do these questions sound familiar? These questions are normally asked when you meet someone for the first time back in the states. However, these aren't the questions that are being asked as you check into a new hostel and meet your new bunkmates. The common three questions that you get asked every time are: Where are you from? Where did you just come from? How long are you staying here? Where are you going next? After ten minutes of talking you realize you didn’t even get the person’s name. No one cares about what you do for a living, what kind of car you drive, your status, etc. The questions asked in America all revolve around status. As Americans we are so driven by status and success and this idea of the “American Dream”. I interpret the American dream as a life filled with opportunities that will lead you to a successful life. What is successful? Well that is up to the individual. In my future, I hope for a beautiful home, children, a loving and supporting husband, and a career that allows me to provide for my family while living a comfortable lifestyle. What’s “comfortable”, well once again that varies depending on what a person considers as “needs” vs. “wants”. We all have different versions of our “American Dream”, yet we can’t do it unless we work like crazy. In the states, there is pressure to get a job immediately and start working. As a recent graduate, I have felt this pressure and have stressed over the next chapter of my life. In reality though, I think it is the perfect time to travel, explore, and see different things that may interest me in a career. Yet very few do this, because the past four years of high tuition fees were spent in order to get them a job. A job that will lead us to our own version of the American dream.
My point being, is that as Americans we are so focused on a life full of materialistic things and success that we work ourselves like crazy 9 to 5 or plus every day in the hope that one day we can retire and enjoy our life. Most Americans dream of traveling when they retire or owning a second home. Yet as I have been meeting individuals in the hostels, I have noticed that there are very few Americans. I am shocked at how many people I have met who are younger than me or older who have been traveling for months at a time by themselves or with someone. (Granted I have met a hand full of American people, but most cases than not it is the Canadians and the Australians). I don’t want to be the typical American who stays in my bubble and doesn’t explore and travel until I have retired in my 60’s. By the time you do get to travel, you may not have the energy or health to do what you could have done when you were younger.
I guess all I am is saying, that I envision of a life for me that will lead me to adventuring into new locations, both in the states and foreign countries.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Pizza. Pizza. And more...Pizza
This post is dedicated to all the food lovers!
I have been in Italy for almost a week now and the consumption of my food has been carbs! ( I am definitely not complaining, except maybe when I get back home and can't put my jeans on..ha) My daily meals has consisted of pizza, pasta, and croissants! Every morning is usually started with a croissant and nutella...mhmmm. Today was my first cappuccino in a little bar right outside of the Colosseum. In Italy, whenever eating in a "bar/snack bar" if you order food and sit down your price of your meal will almost double in price. So I have learned to eat standing or eat on the go. Today's experience of drinking a cappuccino with the fellow native Italians in a small little bar made me beam with joy. Do they really do this every morning/afternoon/evening? Could you imagine Starbucks back in the states doubling the price of a grande coffee if we were to sit down? Starbucks and Peet's coffee places are already crowded as it is, I couldn't imagine all of those people standing. Although I am a strong Peet's lover, I can't compare the cappuccino and experience to a Peet's coffee. The guy working behind the bar probably got a chuckle out of me as I sat there smiling and taking pictures of my cappuccino and croissant. Ah the little things in life!!!
And as for the pizza here....delicious! This is not Papa Murphy's or Mountain Mikes. I have had multiple types of pizza over the course of the week, but my most favorite was today's. A thin crust, spicy salami, basil, and mozzarella pizza! Devoured in minutes!
As for the sweets, one can't complain with getting a cold gelato to cool yourself down during the hot, sunny day. I have only had one thus far. ( I know surprising coming from someone who could skip dinner and go straight to dessert) .
Okay enough rambling about food, hope I have left all of you reading salivating.... :)
I have been in Italy for almost a week now and the consumption of my food has been carbs! ( I am definitely not complaining, except maybe when I get back home and can't put my jeans on..ha) My daily meals has consisted of pizza, pasta, and croissants! Every morning is usually started with a croissant and nutella...mhmmm. Today was my first cappuccino in a little bar right outside of the Colosseum. In Italy, whenever eating in a "bar/snack bar" if you order food and sit down your price of your meal will almost double in price. So I have learned to eat standing or eat on the go. Today's experience of drinking a cappuccino with the fellow native Italians in a small little bar made me beam with joy. Do they really do this every morning/afternoon/evening? Could you imagine Starbucks back in the states doubling the price of a grande coffee if we were to sit down? Starbucks and Peet's coffee places are already crowded as it is, I couldn't imagine all of those people standing. Although I am a strong Peet's lover, I can't compare the cappuccino and experience to a Peet's coffee. The guy working behind the bar probably got a chuckle out of me as I sat there smiling and taking pictures of my cappuccino and croissant. Ah the little things in life!!!
And as for the pizza here....delicious! This is not Papa Murphy's or Mountain Mikes. I have had multiple types of pizza over the course of the week, but my most favorite was today's. A thin crust, spicy salami, basil, and mozzarella pizza! Devoured in minutes!
As for the sweets, one can't complain with getting a cold gelato to cool yourself down during the hot, sunny day. I have only had one thus far. ( I know surprising coming from someone who could skip dinner and go straight to dessert) .
Okay enough rambling about food, hope I have left all of you reading salivating.... :)
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Capri
Capri. A small island right off the Sorrento coast. For 65 Euro..guessing approx 110 or 120 US dollars, I went on a boat excursion to see the island of Capri. Myself and 10 other people from the hostel joined as we were curious what we were spending our precious savings on. I was hoping it wasn't a scam that I have experienced before with my parents in the Amalfi Coast. The rumors we had heard about it being a great adventure came true! Worth every penny spent!
The people from the company picked us up directly from the hostel and took us to the boat, which was only shared among us 11 students. What a blast. Took the boat along the Sorrento coast and then went around the island viewing the white,blue,and green grotto! The blue grotto is the one with brightest blue water, however, the cave is so small you have to pay to take a little boat in there for 2 mins. aka rip off. But the boat was able to drop us off in the green grotto which we got to swim through. Absolutely amazing! After the swim and the tour around the island, the boat dropped us off to do some sight seeing on the island. Took the cable car up the island to the center of town. I spent the afternoon window shopping, seeing as Capri is very expensive and known for celebrities shopping there. Prada, high designers, you name it. Window cases covered with diamonds....ah a girl can dream!!!
Finished the day coming back in the Sorrento marina. The guys that took us out on the boat also took us back to the hostel. However, 11 people and 1 small car and 1 scooter couldnt fit everyone so they had to make rounds. Ian and I jumped on the scooter. Imagine an italian man, me, and ian all stuck on a tiny scooter riding through the streets of Sorrento. This could quite possibly be the highlight of the day. I could not stop giggling from the excitement. Excitement and nerves wondering if I was going to make it back to the hostel in one piece. We were speeding through the traffic passing vehicles and other scooters, as well as turning on sharp blind corners on the cobble stone roads! ( I have pictures)
Possibly the best 120US dollars I have spent so far. I thank myself for working so hard the past year to be able to experience this. And at that same time I think, a job? NO THANKS! Working 9-5 is not appealing when taking in the coast line from a boat in southern Italy. Who would like to support my traveling fund :) ?
Well, thats all for now...headed to Pompeii tomorrow and then Rome after. Looking forward to seeing the sights in Rome!
The people from the company picked us up directly from the hostel and took us to the boat, which was only shared among us 11 students. What a blast. Took the boat along the Sorrento coast and then went around the island viewing the white,blue,and green grotto! The blue grotto is the one with brightest blue water, however, the cave is so small you have to pay to take a little boat in there for 2 mins. aka rip off. But the boat was able to drop us off in the green grotto which we got to swim through. Absolutely amazing! After the swim and the tour around the island, the boat dropped us off to do some sight seeing on the island. Took the cable car up the island to the center of town. I spent the afternoon window shopping, seeing as Capri is very expensive and known for celebrities shopping there. Prada, high designers, you name it. Window cases covered with diamonds....ah a girl can dream!!!
Finished the day coming back in the Sorrento marina. The guys that took us out on the boat also took us back to the hostel. However, 11 people and 1 small car and 1 scooter couldnt fit everyone so they had to make rounds. Ian and I jumped on the scooter. Imagine an italian man, me, and ian all stuck on a tiny scooter riding through the streets of Sorrento. This could quite possibly be the highlight of the day. I could not stop giggling from the excitement. Excitement and nerves wondering if I was going to make it back to the hostel in one piece. We were speeding through the traffic passing vehicles and other scooters, as well as turning on sharp blind corners on the cobble stone roads! ( I have pictures)
Possibly the best 120US dollars I have spent so far. I thank myself for working so hard the past year to be able to experience this. And at that same time I think, a job? NO THANKS! Working 9-5 is not appealing when taking in the coast line from a boat in southern Italy. Who would like to support my traveling fund :) ?
Well, thats all for now...headed to Pompeii tomorrow and then Rome after. Looking forward to seeing the sights in Rome!
Monday, June 6, 2011
Died and Gone to Heaven...
Ciao!
Sitting here in my hostel at a130 am trying to catch everyone up! So quick update...landed in Rome and had a tough start trying to find our hotel for the first night. Having traveled 24 hrs with maybe 3 hrs of sleep can be rough on ya. But it was quite an adventure to start off with! After a night of catching up on sleep, Ian and I made our way south of Italy to Sorrento. Sorrento is absolutely beautiful. It is like something out of a movie. We checked into our first hostel called Seven. Met a nice canadian couple as well as a couple from Florida. Today we traveled with both of them to Positino and Amalfi Coast. Took a bus ride along the cliff ( praying that we make all the tight turns and show up in one piece) to Positono and then a ferry to Amalfi to see the view from the water. I have to keep pinching Ian and telling myself I am in Italy. The views are absolutely breathtaking. Tomorrow we plan to go with some friends from the hostel on a boat excursion to the island of Capri. It will take us there to explore and then snorkel in the caves! Excited to swim in the Mediterranean Sea!!
A few lessons I've learned along the way:
1. My 30lb backpack can be quite tiring on my 5'4 frame. However, its an adventure getting on and off the trains. As well as comforting seeing other backpackers. I'm thinking of dumping some stuff by week 4 or 5 so I can shop a little and bring goodies back! Oh how I miss the days when my mom would bring me back stuff on the jet! How fortunate we were!
2. It is so interesting meeting other people in the hostels and listening to their stories about where they have traveled to and where they are going. It is not only interesting, but they also provide helpful tips on things worth seeings as well as great restaurants and bars to go too! It is fun spending the day with other people from the hostel, but at the same time as the group gets bigger it becomes more of an annoyance in making decisions.
3. Be very cautious when walking in the streets. The italians are crazy drivers and do not stop for pedestrians.
Alright, that is all for now. Its 2 am here and need to get caught up on some much needed sleep! Sending my love to everyone!
Ciao!
Sitting here in my hostel at a130 am trying to catch everyone up! So quick update...landed in Rome and had a tough start trying to find our hotel for the first night. Having traveled 24 hrs with maybe 3 hrs of sleep can be rough on ya. But it was quite an adventure to start off with! After a night of catching up on sleep, Ian and I made our way south of Italy to Sorrento. Sorrento is absolutely beautiful. It is like something out of a movie. We checked into our first hostel called Seven. Met a nice canadian couple as well as a couple from Florida. Today we traveled with both of them to Positino and Amalfi Coast. Took a bus ride along the cliff ( praying that we make all the tight turns and show up in one piece) to Positono and then a ferry to Amalfi to see the view from the water. I have to keep pinching Ian and telling myself I am in Italy. The views are absolutely breathtaking. Tomorrow we plan to go with some friends from the hostel on a boat excursion to the island of Capri. It will take us there to explore and then snorkel in the caves! Excited to swim in the Mediterranean Sea!!
A few lessons I've learned along the way:
1. My 30lb backpack can be quite tiring on my 5'4 frame. However, its an adventure getting on and off the trains. As well as comforting seeing other backpackers. I'm thinking of dumping some stuff by week 4 or 5 so I can shop a little and bring goodies back! Oh how I miss the days when my mom would bring me back stuff on the jet! How fortunate we were!
2. It is so interesting meeting other people in the hostels and listening to their stories about where they have traveled to and where they are going. It is not only interesting, but they also provide helpful tips on things worth seeings as well as great restaurants and bars to go too! It is fun spending the day with other people from the hostel, but at the same time as the group gets bigger it becomes more of an annoyance in making decisions.
3. Be very cautious when walking in the streets. The italians are crazy drivers and do not stop for pedestrians.
Alright, that is all for now. Its 2 am here and need to get caught up on some much needed sleep! Sending my love to everyone!
Ciao!
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Goodbye USA, Hello Rome!
Crazy to think that just a few short months ago, I was day dreaming in class about taking a trip to Europe. Tonight, I am no longer day dreaming, but rather dreaming of the adventures I will experience while gone for 5 weeks. I am dreaming of the sights I will see, the people I will meet, the food I will taste, and most importantly the memories I will make.
So join me and read along as I post stories and photos from my trip! I will try my best to post as frequently as I can!
Ciao!
So join me and read along as I post stories and photos from my trip! I will try my best to post as frequently as I can!
Ciao!
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