Italy trip continued

Back to update you on my trip and also inform that I have not been able to download pictures from here. I will do that when I get home.

Wed., July 22nd
Took train to Florence (Firenzia in Italy) Got to hang out with my neice, Kelly, to enjoy great food and wine, and walk around the city. Very beautiful! Took a bus around the city and saw some awesome sights. Also, there is great shopping there.
Sat., July 25th
Took train to Cinque Tere, a beautiful seaside area of Italy. Staying in a town called Riomaggiore in an apartment that is in the ozone layers. This place has a beautiful ocean view and great restaurante. We have to walk 200 steps to go up and down to our apt. I am definitely getting my exercise here. The towns are built against the mountainsides and there are beautiful beaches. I will definitely be coming home darker (but not as dark as the locals).

Right now, Sunday the 26th, I am in a town called Corneglia. This is such an authentic Italian experience. Lots of steps to get around and all stone buildings along the edge of a mountain. I have to take trains between towns or hike on long trails (because of all of the walking we have been doing, I have been choosing the trains)

We had quite a day yesterday, getting around. We learned that you have to force your way through crowds on the trains to get off. They pack them. One time, we missed our stop because people would not let us out. We took the scenic route home. Then, we walked up through Riomaggiore, a very steep walk, with our luggage to get to a bus to the Apt. After the excruciating walk up, we learned that we could have taken a bus to the top. Well, we are learning!! Thankfully, I have done enough walking to get me in shape for that trek. Once we got there. We had to carry our luggage down 200 steps that zigzaged and were ruff, to get to where we stayed. We were all soaked with sweat(not pleasant) and exhausted. However, the night ended with a wonderful dinner and some wine.
Also, I am getting my fill of Tiramasu (Italian dessert that I love). I had my best one so far last night.

Rome Travels

On Monday, I arrived in Rome. We got to our hotel, which is great, checked in, freshened up, and we were on our way. We went to see the Colosseum and Roman Forum that afternoon, which has so much history. Learned alot about the Roman history and culture. We did lots of walking and saw the ruins of the Roman Forum, which was built as a city by one of the Emporers (I would have to study up on the history to give you details)

Tuesday, had a tour of The Vatican City. It was amazing and overwhelming. Again, learned alot about the history of the Popes and Artists who were commisioned to paint for them. The one we learned the most about was Michelangelo and his work on the Sistine Chapel. This is an amazing sight. Also, saw St. Peter's tomb in the St. Peter's Basilica, which is massive. This evening, we went to the Spanish Steps and heard some beautiful singing inside the cathedral from clergy and nuns. (just like the sound of music) Then we walked to the fontina de Trevi (a famous fountain). If you toss a coin in, it is said that you will return to Rome someday. Jim, I tossed a coin!!

We have had some wonderful Italian food and desserts. There is pizza and pasta everywhere. I have had two Tirimisus so far. Also, the gelato (Italian ice cream) is wonderful. I am going to have to be careful that I don't come home 10 pounds heavier.

Tomorrow morning we leave for Florence. I am looking forward to riding their Fast Train there. Will post more later!!

Rome travels

July 20th  Arrived in Rome on time (early actually), found our hotel, which is wonderful.  Has an old lift(ie. elevator) like the one in Thoroughly Modern Millie (movie).  Went to see the Colosseum and Roman Forum. Learned alot about the Roman history and culture.  Very interesting. 
 
July 21st  Saw Vatican City with a tour. Had a great tou guide from South Dakota (of all places) and was amazed with the beauty and wealth.  Learned alot about Michelangilo (not sure how to spell) and saw the Sistine Chapel where he painted the walls and ceiling.  Saw lots of art and sculpture.  Later we went to the Spanish steps and walked into the cathedral where the priests and nuns were singing.  Very beautiful.  Also, went to the Fontina (fountain) de Trevi and tossed a coin in so I can return to Rome some day (supposedly). 
 
We have had some great food (pizza and pasta) and great desserts.

Italy trip

Leaving for Italy Sunday, July 19th. So excited!! My plan is to keep family and friends updated on my trip while I am there with this blog. Check it out!!