Can you believe we are one day away from December? I can't, it truly is going by faster than I realize. It is strange how some days I think it feels like only yesterday I arrived, but it is 3 months.
I am pretty impressed with myself to be honest. There have been many times I thought I would throw in the towel. But, deep down I know I am not ready to come home yet. I know I haven't learned all what I am meant to learn while I am here. If I go back now, I will regret it. Nothing will have changed in me, I will take the same things for granted and I will be lost.
I am meant to stick it out, no matter how much crying or how homesick I get I need to do this for me.
I have spent some lone weekends this month for a couple of reasons. One has to do with a shopping adventure I went on by accident. I spent more money than I have ever in one store. Oops! I did get a dress for my work Christmas do, and then some sweet purple patent leather boots (which were essential, as boots are the style here) and then a pair of leggings, because you can't live here without a pair. The other reason for my anti social behaviour still goes back to my shopping, I knew if I went out I would spend more money and I need to pay Italy off and start stocking up for the holidays. (I know I would spend money shopping, because the weekend after my big shopping, I went out and shopped again. I didn't spend as much, I swear!).
Only 3 more weeks of school before the big break, (I haven't been counting since the beginning of November!) I am looking forward to my dad coming to visit, I am especially looking forward to all of the treats he is going to bring me. We are headed to Scotland for a few days. I am really looking forward to that, it is going to be pretty with all of the lights and the snow.
For New Year's I am going to Belgium, to meet up with a girl and her boyfriend. Both of whom I met briefly in October. They have offered me a place to stay and they are going to show me around. I am just glad that I won't be alone during the holidays.
Well now that I have sat here for the last 1/2 hour sleeping instead of typing, it is a sign that I am too tired to write anymore.
(It is Monday, what do you expect).
Monday, November 29, 2010
Monday, November 8, 2010
Travels: The Final Leg!
Our shortest train trip yet! We arrived in Rome at 12. We were ripped off by a cab driver by 12:15!
Seriously! We walked out of the train station and there were sketchy people offering "cab rides". So being the smart girls that we are, we went straight to the main taxi line up. The line moved fairly quickly. There was a guy directing people to the taxis. We got up to him and showed him where we were going and he said it would cost 35 pounds. Ouch! But we had no idea how far the hotel was so we sucked it up. We got into the cab and as we were pulling away, I looked back and it registered that the guy directing people to different taxis was the guy who was driving ours. Then I looked up front and noticed that there was no meter. Still being the naive, nice Canadians (Okay, the Canadians that totally need to stick up for themselves). We got to our hotel and paid our driver. Once in the hotel we asked at front desk how much it should cost from the train station, 15 pounds! That is my first memory of Rome.
Both Sam and I were mad, but could do nothing about it so we went to our room and tried to change our perspective. We decided that since we had tours booked for the next two days and not to mention been so busy so far that we were going to find a main square, enjoy the sun at a cafe and journal. We found our way to Piazza Novona. It was a busy place, lined with cafes/restaurants that all had tables outside. We started walking through the square to find a location and the "hustlers" started coming out. They work for the restaurant and they try very hard to get people to come to their place. We happened to walk by one, and the guy was trying so hard to get us in there. Both Sam and I were like, we have been taken once already today we aren't getting talked into anything. So we continued along the way, but found no place that had a table out in the sun, except for the one place we snubbed. So we went back and hung our heads. I told the guy that if he wanted us to sit there he would have to find us a table in the sun. He did! Sam and I sat there and decided to have a mojito instead of coffee. We ordered a sandwich and tried to absorb as much sun as possible. We decided that we would we would have a small dinner later and then go out to a pub for the night. So what did we do next? We ordered another mojito! They were mighty fine, but no journal ever did get written in. We walked back to the hotel and decided to have a little siesta. Knowing fully well that no one goes out early in Italy.
At 7 the alarm went off and we were up. Both of us were not really feeling it, but we made ourselves beautiful anyways. We went to the hotel for a light supper and then headed to the Campo de Fiori. Another square supposedly where lots of people go to. We got to the one pub and ordered a drink, well low and behold each time you ordered a drink you got a free shot. And all of you know so far what that means..... No, actually it was one of the tamer nights. We just had a few drinks, talked with some of the locals and a few other travelers. We were back at the hotel no later than 12:30. (I did get to ride on the back of a scooter though).
The next day our tour didn't start till the afternoon, so Sam and I slept in. I know you are thinking you are on limited time, see as much as possible. I thought that too. But, with how tired I am at the end of the work day and at the end of the work week. I knew I needed to also rejuvenate before going back to work.
Our tour of the Vatican City, Vatican museums, the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica. WOW! WOW! WOW! I am not that knowledgeable when it comes to art, I don't think I ever learned how to really appreciate it, but this was amazing. I can't describe it in words. I posted some pictures on facebook, but even those will never do it justice. It was helpful having a guide who was so knowledgeable. He pointed out things that a person would overlook if they were going through on their own. It was a little weird standing in the place that the Pope comes out onto his balcony to address his followers. I am not sure how anyone could go into St. Peter's and not feel at peace.
After our amazing tour, we needed a little glass of wine to sip on so we could soak in our day. Sam and I decided that we would head to the hotel, chill out and then go for our last supper in Italy. We went to this family run restaurant. I hadn't realized that the focus of their dishes was seafood with homemade pasta. I was a little concerned when the waiter came around with a push cart full of fresh fish. He would take out the whole fish and flop it around to show the guests. It was a little creepy for me. There wasn't a whole lot that I would chose off of the menu, but I did decide on the lobster pasta. Good, but not fantastic. Seafood like that is not my cup of tea. But, the wine and the company were great so it made up for the food. I still left feeling full, it may have something to do with the Tiramsu I stuffed down at the end. We went back to pack up, knowing that our last day was going to be busy.
Both Sam and I slept like crap. I had two bloody noses, which so rarely ever happens to me. I think we were both worried about how we planned on managing the Colosseum tour, picking up our luggage at the hotel and then making it to our two o'clock train. But with my controlling nature, and my muscles we did just fine.
Unfortunately, we only got to stay for half of the Colosseum tour. But, we did get to go inside the Colosseum itself and that was the most important. It was strange to be in there. I think because I have seen replicas of it from Hollywood movies. So I kept thinking, that is were Russell Crow came out of. It is not that I didn't appreciate it, I definitely did and again it helped a lot having a guide to give us all of the history. Pictures on facebook again don't do the real thing justice.
So our final hours in Italy, we had to get to our hotel pick up our now even heavier suitcases and head to the train station. I of course did some more last minute shopping in the train station. Sam and I grabbed another sandwich, (bring on the carbs) and found our way to the train. I had to lift both mine and Sam's suitcases by this point. So funny! We took the train to Pisa, again I slept most of the way. We found the airport and were so happy to ditch out luggage for a short time. I would like you all to know that my bag only came in weighing 20.4kg and Sam's weighed 22.6. So I was doing a little better. Our flight was only an hour and half, which I again slept the whole way. We arrived in Gatwick, London just after midnight. We stayed at the Holiday in just outside of the airport.
Sadness would not even describe what I felt when I got up. Knowing that this was the last I was going to see a familiar face for the next 7 weeks. We enjoyed breakfast in our room, which was hard for me to eat through the tears. At noon, Sam and I said our good-byes. She was off to Heathrow to fly home and I was off to take a train, 2 tubes another train and a taxi to get home.
In summary, Italy was all that I hoped it would be and more. I was very lucky to share the experience with Sam. I will treasure the memories forever, all the ones I have shared in the blogs with you and the ones that are locked away for only Sam and I to remember.
Seriously! We walked out of the train station and there were sketchy people offering "cab rides". So being the smart girls that we are, we went straight to the main taxi line up. The line moved fairly quickly. There was a guy directing people to the taxis. We got up to him and showed him where we were going and he said it would cost 35 pounds. Ouch! But we had no idea how far the hotel was so we sucked it up. We got into the cab and as we were pulling away, I looked back and it registered that the guy directing people to different taxis was the guy who was driving ours. Then I looked up front and noticed that there was no meter. Still being the naive, nice Canadians (Okay, the Canadians that totally need to stick up for themselves). We got to our hotel and paid our driver. Once in the hotel we asked at front desk how much it should cost from the train station, 15 pounds! That is my first memory of Rome.
Both Sam and I were mad, but could do nothing about it so we went to our room and tried to change our perspective. We decided that since we had tours booked for the next two days and not to mention been so busy so far that we were going to find a main square, enjoy the sun at a cafe and journal. We found our way to Piazza Novona. It was a busy place, lined with cafes/restaurants that all had tables outside. We started walking through the square to find a location and the "hustlers" started coming out. They work for the restaurant and they try very hard to get people to come to their place. We happened to walk by one, and the guy was trying so hard to get us in there. Both Sam and I were like, we have been taken once already today we aren't getting talked into anything. So we continued along the way, but found no place that had a table out in the sun, except for the one place we snubbed. So we went back and hung our heads. I told the guy that if he wanted us to sit there he would have to find us a table in the sun. He did! Sam and I sat there and decided to have a mojito instead of coffee. We ordered a sandwich and tried to absorb as much sun as possible. We decided that we would we would have a small dinner later and then go out to a pub for the night. So what did we do next? We ordered another mojito! They were mighty fine, but no journal ever did get written in. We walked back to the hotel and decided to have a little siesta. Knowing fully well that no one goes out early in Italy.
At 7 the alarm went off and we were up. Both of us were not really feeling it, but we made ourselves beautiful anyways. We went to the hotel for a light supper and then headed to the Campo de Fiori. Another square supposedly where lots of people go to. We got to the one pub and ordered a drink, well low and behold each time you ordered a drink you got a free shot. And all of you know so far what that means..... No, actually it was one of the tamer nights. We just had a few drinks, talked with some of the locals and a few other travelers. We were back at the hotel no later than 12:30. (I did get to ride on the back of a scooter though).
The next day our tour didn't start till the afternoon, so Sam and I slept in. I know you are thinking you are on limited time, see as much as possible. I thought that too. But, with how tired I am at the end of the work day and at the end of the work week. I knew I needed to also rejuvenate before going back to work.
Our tour of the Vatican City, Vatican museums, the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica. WOW! WOW! WOW! I am not that knowledgeable when it comes to art, I don't think I ever learned how to really appreciate it, but this was amazing. I can't describe it in words. I posted some pictures on facebook, but even those will never do it justice. It was helpful having a guide who was so knowledgeable. He pointed out things that a person would overlook if they were going through on their own. It was a little weird standing in the place that the Pope comes out onto his balcony to address his followers. I am not sure how anyone could go into St. Peter's and not feel at peace.
After our amazing tour, we needed a little glass of wine to sip on so we could soak in our day. Sam and I decided that we would head to the hotel, chill out and then go for our last supper in Italy. We went to this family run restaurant. I hadn't realized that the focus of their dishes was seafood with homemade pasta. I was a little concerned when the waiter came around with a push cart full of fresh fish. He would take out the whole fish and flop it around to show the guests. It was a little creepy for me. There wasn't a whole lot that I would chose off of the menu, but I did decide on the lobster pasta. Good, but not fantastic. Seafood like that is not my cup of tea. But, the wine and the company were great so it made up for the food. I still left feeling full, it may have something to do with the Tiramsu I stuffed down at the end. We went back to pack up, knowing that our last day was going to be busy.
Both Sam and I slept like crap. I had two bloody noses, which so rarely ever happens to me. I think we were both worried about how we planned on managing the Colosseum tour, picking up our luggage at the hotel and then making it to our two o'clock train. But with my controlling nature, and my muscles we did just fine.
Unfortunately, we only got to stay for half of the Colosseum tour. But, we did get to go inside the Colosseum itself and that was the most important. It was strange to be in there. I think because I have seen replicas of it from Hollywood movies. So I kept thinking, that is were Russell Crow came out of. It is not that I didn't appreciate it, I definitely did and again it helped a lot having a guide to give us all of the history. Pictures on facebook again don't do the real thing justice.
So our final hours in Italy, we had to get to our hotel pick up our now even heavier suitcases and head to the train station. I of course did some more last minute shopping in the train station. Sam and I grabbed another sandwich, (bring on the carbs) and found our way to the train. I had to lift both mine and Sam's suitcases by this point. So funny! We took the train to Pisa, again I slept most of the way. We found the airport and were so happy to ditch out luggage for a short time. I would like you all to know that my bag only came in weighing 20.4kg and Sam's weighed 22.6. So I was doing a little better. Our flight was only an hour and half, which I again slept the whole way. We arrived in Gatwick, London just after midnight. We stayed at the Holiday in just outside of the airport.
Sadness would not even describe what I felt when I got up. Knowing that this was the last I was going to see a familiar face for the next 7 weeks. We enjoyed breakfast in our room, which was hard for me to eat through the tears. At noon, Sam and I said our good-byes. She was off to Heathrow to fly home and I was off to take a train, 2 tubes another train and a taxi to get home.
In summary, Italy was all that I hoped it would be and more. I was very lucky to share the experience with Sam. I will treasure the memories forever, all the ones I have shared in the blogs with you and the ones that are locked away for only Sam and I to remember.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Travels Part Three
Off to Florence!
The first snag, the hotel was over booked and they had to put us in another hotel (4* too). I think it was probably a 4* back in the 1900s. It was almost humorous. Oh well, it was only for one night. Imagine though a canopy bed with rust colour red curtains. (I will post a picture on facebook). The bellman brought up our suitcases, poor guy. No elevator in this hotel. So up many stairs with our very heavy suitcases. As we got into the room I went in my wallet to get some money to tip him, Sam said thank you to him. I guess he assumed that meant that we weren't going to tip him, and under his breath he said "Thanks for what". I can't believe it, needless to say I just put my wallet back into my purse.
We left right away to head out to the streets. Busy doesn't even describe how packed the streets were. We had lunch at a small cafe, the cafe looked on to the cathedral in the centre of the city. So pretty! When we went in the cathedral it was breathtaking, the art work, decorations, scultptures and even the flooring! Just beautiful! It is so hard to describe in words what we saw, there are no words to do any of it justice. We continued to walk to the river, and the famous bridge. The only bridge out of the three in town that wasn't bombed during WWII. There are little flats built into the bridge and tons of stores along the walkway of the bridge. There were many street markets, like you would see in Mexico. Lots of leather purses, belts, hats etc. I found many things that I could have bought, but I settled for a hat. I couldn't make my mind up about the purse. In hindsight I am kicking myself, because I ended up not buying one at all.
After all the walking, we both were needing a drink. We happened upon this little bar that made blended drinks and cocktails. All of their blended drinks were made using fresh fruit. So yummy! As we sat there we both agreed that the next day was going to be a long day with our Tuscany tour so we figured we would go for an early supper and go back to the hotel. We both didn't feel like going back and fixing up before supper. So we found a cute Italian restaurant. We had a nice meal and an excellent bottle of wine. Fat and happy we started walking back to our hotel, we happened upon an Irish pub. Thinking it was only 830, we could go for a drink. Both Sam and I sat at the bar and ordered a drink. The bartender began talking to us, asking where we were from etc. Next thing I know he is giving us a shooter, both Sam and I were like oh boy, this is how it started the night in my town and in Zurich. A few more people started coming in and we got to talking to more of the locals. Then the deal was when a Canadian artist came on we had to do a shooter, and we were both like whatever you don't have many Canadian songs. Well, Brian Adams was the first of many songs to play. I can't say I remember everything, we did talk to a nice newlywed couple from New Orleans. Sam went to pay our tab, which should have been at least 100 euros with all of the shooters we had done, and the bartender charged us 10 euros! That's it! Fun, fun, fun!
Waking up maybe 3 hours later, not so fun. But, I didn't feel that bad, plus it was the day I was looking forward to the most. Tuscany Tour! We boarded the bus at 830. We left and went to a small village called Siena. So cute, small streets, old people, beautiful flowers. The main square was open with cafes along the edge, lots of public sitting in the centre. Two taps where people would wash their grapes and sit in the square and have a picnic with their significant other. I had my first gelato, sitting in the sun and taking it all in.
We left Siena and took the scenic tour through the Tuscan hills. If you have seen the movie Under the Tuscan Sun, it seriously is like that! The colours were wild, being fall the most vibrant reds, oranges and yellows. The rows of vines and olive trees. We stopped at an organic winery. Here we had a traditional Tuscan meal, with a different wine for each course. Very tasty, and the food was good too. After eating we had a few minutes to enjoy wine on the balcony in the sun, looking out to the hills! OMG!
From the winery we went to another small village called San Gimignao. This is a place that is very medieval looking. The buildings are all attached, but there are many walkways that take you to the most amazing views. I think I could have been locked up in that fortress and been quite content if I had that scenery to look at everyday. We came out of one walkway into this opening where the sun was shining, a harpist was playing, people drinking wine looking out at the view. Very romantic!
After leaving San Gimignao, we had a little drive to Pisa. Which again was beautiful the entire way. We made it to Pisa in perfect timing. Sam and I climbed the stairs of the Leaning Tower of Pisa in enough time to see the sunset! What a view, indescribable. We stood up there for about 1/2 hour and tried to take in as much as possible. This left us no time to do any other sightseeing in Pisa, but I didn't care at that point as I am sure this was the highlight.
That was unfortunately the end of our wonderful tour. We headed back to Florence, exhausted but totally mesmerized by our unbelievable day. We went for supper in the hotel and talked about our day. There were two ladies that came in shortly after us, who had just arrived, who had been drinking I am sure for a long time, and who both had had some serious face work done. I could hardly look at them without wanting to laugh. They were from Boston and were looking for a good night out. Sam and I told them about our Irish pub and suggested they go there. I wonder if they ever made it and if they got as good of deal on drinks as we had?
Sleep was the next thing on my agenda and I made sure to accomplish that before midnight! Very much needed and appreciated!
The first snag, the hotel was over booked and they had to put us in another hotel (4* too). I think it was probably a 4* back in the 1900s. It was almost humorous. Oh well, it was only for one night. Imagine though a canopy bed with rust colour red curtains. (I will post a picture on facebook). The bellman brought up our suitcases, poor guy. No elevator in this hotel. So up many stairs with our very heavy suitcases. As we got into the room I went in my wallet to get some money to tip him, Sam said thank you to him. I guess he assumed that meant that we weren't going to tip him, and under his breath he said "Thanks for what". I can't believe it, needless to say I just put my wallet back into my purse.
We left right away to head out to the streets. Busy doesn't even describe how packed the streets were. We had lunch at a small cafe, the cafe looked on to the cathedral in the centre of the city. So pretty! When we went in the cathedral it was breathtaking, the art work, decorations, scultptures and even the flooring! Just beautiful! It is so hard to describe in words what we saw, there are no words to do any of it justice. We continued to walk to the river, and the famous bridge. The only bridge out of the three in town that wasn't bombed during WWII. There are little flats built into the bridge and tons of stores along the walkway of the bridge. There were many street markets, like you would see in Mexico. Lots of leather purses, belts, hats etc. I found many things that I could have bought, but I settled for a hat. I couldn't make my mind up about the purse. In hindsight I am kicking myself, because I ended up not buying one at all.
After all the walking, we both were needing a drink. We happened upon this little bar that made blended drinks and cocktails. All of their blended drinks were made using fresh fruit. So yummy! As we sat there we both agreed that the next day was going to be a long day with our Tuscany tour so we figured we would go for an early supper and go back to the hotel. We both didn't feel like going back and fixing up before supper. So we found a cute Italian restaurant. We had a nice meal and an excellent bottle of wine. Fat and happy we started walking back to our hotel, we happened upon an Irish pub. Thinking it was only 830, we could go for a drink. Both Sam and I sat at the bar and ordered a drink. The bartender began talking to us, asking where we were from etc. Next thing I know he is giving us a shooter, both Sam and I were like oh boy, this is how it started the night in my town and in Zurich. A few more people started coming in and we got to talking to more of the locals. Then the deal was when a Canadian artist came on we had to do a shooter, and we were both like whatever you don't have many Canadian songs. Well, Brian Adams was the first of many songs to play. I can't say I remember everything, we did talk to a nice newlywed couple from New Orleans. Sam went to pay our tab, which should have been at least 100 euros with all of the shooters we had done, and the bartender charged us 10 euros! That's it! Fun, fun, fun!
Waking up maybe 3 hours later, not so fun. But, I didn't feel that bad, plus it was the day I was looking forward to the most. Tuscany Tour! We boarded the bus at 830. We left and went to a small village called Siena. So cute, small streets, old people, beautiful flowers. The main square was open with cafes along the edge, lots of public sitting in the centre. Two taps where people would wash their grapes and sit in the square and have a picnic with their significant other. I had my first gelato, sitting in the sun and taking it all in.
We left Siena and took the scenic tour through the Tuscan hills. If you have seen the movie Under the Tuscan Sun, it seriously is like that! The colours were wild, being fall the most vibrant reds, oranges and yellows. The rows of vines and olive trees. We stopped at an organic winery. Here we had a traditional Tuscan meal, with a different wine for each course. Very tasty, and the food was good too. After eating we had a few minutes to enjoy wine on the balcony in the sun, looking out to the hills! OMG!
From the winery we went to another small village called San Gimignao. This is a place that is very medieval looking. The buildings are all attached, but there are many walkways that take you to the most amazing views. I think I could have been locked up in that fortress and been quite content if I had that scenery to look at everyday. We came out of one walkway into this opening where the sun was shining, a harpist was playing, people drinking wine looking out at the view. Very romantic!
After leaving San Gimignao, we had a little drive to Pisa. Which again was beautiful the entire way. We made it to Pisa in perfect timing. Sam and I climbed the stairs of the Leaning Tower of Pisa in enough time to see the sunset! What a view, indescribable. We stood up there for about 1/2 hour and tried to take in as much as possible. This left us no time to do any other sightseeing in Pisa, but I didn't care at that point as I am sure this was the highlight.
That was unfortunately the end of our wonderful tour. We headed back to Florence, exhausted but totally mesmerized by our unbelievable day. We went for supper in the hotel and talked about our day. There were two ladies that came in shortly after us, who had just arrived, who had been drinking I am sure for a long time, and who both had had some serious face work done. I could hardly look at them without wanting to laugh. They were from Boston and were looking for a good night out. Sam and I told them about our Irish pub and suggested they go there. I wonder if they ever made it and if they got as good of deal on drinks as we had?
Sleep was the next thing on my agenda and I made sure to accomplish that before midnight! Very much needed and appreciated!
Travels Part Deux
I have to do this in parts, as there is so much to tell you.
I left off leaving Zurich. We found our train with little problem, and boarded. I was asleep, head on the table in front of me before we left the station. I knew that if I felt that bad already and I was still intoxicated that later was not going to be pretty. This was our long day of train rides, which I think I was secretly happy as I really needed to sleep. We stopped and changed trains in Milan. Our stop was long enough for us to see some pigeons and to pick up a panini. I tried really hard to stay awake for the rest of the journey, but that didn't happen.
We arrived in Venice around 4 pm. So exciting to walk out of the train station and see old buildings and water just like a person has always envisioned it to be. I think I had to pinch myself, seriously! Are task was to find which water bus to take to where we would find out hotel. Our first try was wrong, but the second one was right on. Here pulls up this water bus, Sam and I are lugging our huge suitcases onto this crowded boat. No matter where we stood we were given dirty looks and told to move. It was quite comical, like really there was no where for us to go. We must have been the first tourists Venice had ever seen. (who brings a suitcase onto a water bus anyway?) A short jaunt on the boat and our stop. we walked through this small cobblestone alleyway and came out onto a busier shopping street. Our map was out and we started to navigate to our hotel. Like that was easy, the signs were all in Italian and it was like nothing matched what our map said. I must admit though, I do have a general sense of direction and I did find the hotel. Old and antique, very pretty. We ditched our suitcases and were off in the rain to look around. I don't know if you have seen pictures or movies that involve Venice, but it is exactly what you have seen. No cars, just lots of people bustling around, walkways too narrow for all of the umbrellas. Really posh stores and little cafes and wine bars everywhere. Sam and I decided on supper right beside the water, how romantic. Sitting under an awning, with a heat lamp, drinking red wine and eating some great pasta. (This isn't at all what I thought I would be doing in Italy, as if! It was like being in a fairytale). We called it an early night, by going back to the hotel and sitting in the hotel bar enjoying a few drinks and talking.
Day 2 in Venice was started by sirens, it woke both of us up. Not sure what the sirens meant or if we should be taking cover, we just stayed in bed for a little longer. After getting ready and enjoying breakfast at our hotel, we left to go and see what we could before our tour. Unfortunately, the water was so high that many things were flooded. Many of the streets had ramps to walk over so you were not walking in ankle deep water. It was so busy though that once you got on one of the ramps you were guaranteed to be in a line up just to get down the street. We found out at the beginning of our tour that the morning alarm lets the residents that the water level will peak above 1.5m and to be aware that there will be flooding. The flooding limited out tour too, we couldn't go into the Basicala, St. Mark's Square was completely flooded. It didn't help that it was so flippen cold, windy and rainy. Sam and I bought plastic ponchos to wear so we wouldn't have to carry our umbrellas. We looked like sausages, (meat stuffed into its wrap). After our walking tour we found a little pizzeria for lunch, we both had pizza and shared a bottle of wine. It was nice to get out of the wet for a short time. We didn't have long as we still had a tour on the Grand Canal. I directed us back to the meeting sight (Sorry, but Sam was awful at remembering how to get anywhere). The tour on the Grand Canal was great, besides the extremely rough water. Going along the Canal and seeing the beautiful old buildings, all of the colours and the history. Just great! We were both tired after our long day of sightseeing and walking that we went back to the hotel to warm up and take a break. Of course we weren't hungry after our large lunch, but we still wanted to go out for awhile, we were in Venice! Walking down the many streets we found a wine bar and sat and enjoyed a glass of wine, then off to a pub. A cute little jazz pub, which seemed to be okay. One little detail that made it even more interesting the ceiling was completely covered in womens bras. All sizes and colours. I guess this pub's thing was to get girls to leave their bras to show off. So guess what Sam and I did? We ....... didn't leave our bra. I am more controlled than that, give me some credit. We had a salad and some bruschetta for supper. Really not that great, but what should I expect ordering a Greek salad in Italy. We made our way back to the hotel and again sat in the bar and played some Monopoly Deal. I know you are all thinking wow, how boring! But we weren't feeling the night life in Venice. I think Venice is really a place for couples to go to, not two ladies looking for a party.
The next day had us packing up and making our way back to the train station to head to our next destination. Once again, I did some shopping in the train station. Last minute buys so I could have useless memorabilia of Venice.
I really didn't think it was going to take so long to post my trip, maybe I am a little too long winded. You are all thinking, just show us the pictures. Well you still have to wait because that is going to take a long time to do too.
I left off leaving Zurich. We found our train with little problem, and boarded. I was asleep, head on the table in front of me before we left the station. I knew that if I felt that bad already and I was still intoxicated that later was not going to be pretty. This was our long day of train rides, which I think I was secretly happy as I really needed to sleep. We stopped and changed trains in Milan. Our stop was long enough for us to see some pigeons and to pick up a panini. I tried really hard to stay awake for the rest of the journey, but that didn't happen.
We arrived in Venice around 4 pm. So exciting to walk out of the train station and see old buildings and water just like a person has always envisioned it to be. I think I had to pinch myself, seriously! Are task was to find which water bus to take to where we would find out hotel. Our first try was wrong, but the second one was right on. Here pulls up this water bus, Sam and I are lugging our huge suitcases onto this crowded boat. No matter where we stood we were given dirty looks and told to move. It was quite comical, like really there was no where for us to go. We must have been the first tourists Venice had ever seen. (who brings a suitcase onto a water bus anyway?) A short jaunt on the boat and our stop. we walked through this small cobblestone alleyway and came out onto a busier shopping street. Our map was out and we started to navigate to our hotel. Like that was easy, the signs were all in Italian and it was like nothing matched what our map said. I must admit though, I do have a general sense of direction and I did find the hotel. Old and antique, very pretty. We ditched our suitcases and were off in the rain to look around. I don't know if you have seen pictures or movies that involve Venice, but it is exactly what you have seen. No cars, just lots of people bustling around, walkways too narrow for all of the umbrellas. Really posh stores and little cafes and wine bars everywhere. Sam and I decided on supper right beside the water, how romantic. Sitting under an awning, with a heat lamp, drinking red wine and eating some great pasta. (This isn't at all what I thought I would be doing in Italy, as if! It was like being in a fairytale). We called it an early night, by going back to the hotel and sitting in the hotel bar enjoying a few drinks and talking.
Day 2 in Venice was started by sirens, it woke both of us up. Not sure what the sirens meant or if we should be taking cover, we just stayed in bed for a little longer. After getting ready and enjoying breakfast at our hotel, we left to go and see what we could before our tour. Unfortunately, the water was so high that many things were flooded. Many of the streets had ramps to walk over so you were not walking in ankle deep water. It was so busy though that once you got on one of the ramps you were guaranteed to be in a line up just to get down the street. We found out at the beginning of our tour that the morning alarm lets the residents that the water level will peak above 1.5m and to be aware that there will be flooding. The flooding limited out tour too, we couldn't go into the Basicala, St. Mark's Square was completely flooded. It didn't help that it was so flippen cold, windy and rainy. Sam and I bought plastic ponchos to wear so we wouldn't have to carry our umbrellas. We looked like sausages, (meat stuffed into its wrap). After our walking tour we found a little pizzeria for lunch, we both had pizza and shared a bottle of wine. It was nice to get out of the wet for a short time. We didn't have long as we still had a tour on the Grand Canal. I directed us back to the meeting sight (Sorry, but Sam was awful at remembering how to get anywhere). The tour on the Grand Canal was great, besides the extremely rough water. Going along the Canal and seeing the beautiful old buildings, all of the colours and the history. Just great! We were both tired after our long day of sightseeing and walking that we went back to the hotel to warm up and take a break. Of course we weren't hungry after our large lunch, but we still wanted to go out for awhile, we were in Venice! Walking down the many streets we found a wine bar and sat and enjoyed a glass of wine, then off to a pub. A cute little jazz pub, which seemed to be okay. One little detail that made it even more interesting the ceiling was completely covered in womens bras. All sizes and colours. I guess this pub's thing was to get girls to leave their bras to show off. So guess what Sam and I did? We ....... didn't leave our bra. I am more controlled than that, give me some credit. We had a salad and some bruschetta for supper. Really not that great, but what should I expect ordering a Greek salad in Italy. We made our way back to the hotel and again sat in the bar and played some Monopoly Deal. I know you are all thinking wow, how boring! But we weren't feeling the night life in Venice. I think Venice is really a place for couples to go to, not two ladies looking for a party.
The next day had us packing up and making our way back to the train station to head to our next destination. Once again, I did some shopping in the train station. Last minute buys so I could have useless memorabilia of Venice.
I really didn't think it was going to take so long to post my trip, maybe I am a little too long winded. You are all thinking, just show us the pictures. Well you still have to wait because that is going to take a long time to do too.
Friday, November 5, 2010
Travels, Part 1
I know, I know it has been too long. But, you have to understand that I was in Italy last week and I have punished myself to no more motivational red wine til Friday so I could detox. So here I am Friday night, (well really it is just 5pm); but it is dark outside and it is Friday, drinking my first glass of red wine since leaving Italy, and having the motivation to blog.
Oh, where to begin?
My friend *Samantha (Sam) came to see me and had arrived on Thursday Oct. 20. She too has recently gone through a separation and was looking for a chance to get away from it all. (I know you are all thinking two crazy girls out in Italy), but I will tell you now just in case you want to stop reading there is no dirty details to tell, just a lot of late nights!
The day of Sam's arrival had us going for drinks and a bite to eat at one of the pub's I have began to frequent. We sat in the corner by the fire and talked and had a few beers. For some reason though we decided to move up closer to the bar, and well that was the end to our tame night. I am pretty sure I went to bed at 4am, waking up at 615 to go to work.
I survived the day at work, I only had the students til noon, so it wasn't too bad. That night Sam and I took the train to London. Picture this, two girls with suitcases way to full, lugging these heavy things up 3 flights of stairs in heels. Oh what a laugh and sight we must have been, (and it was only the beginning). We found our hotel for the night, a cute room that we could reach wall to wall if we were standing beside one another with our arms out. We dropped our stuff and went to get a bite to eat, guess what we had? Wait for it.... Italian! I know we were going to Italy but pasta and pizza are really my favourite. An early night for us, as I still was only running on about 2 hours of sleep.
In the morning we boarded the train, the first leg and only the first leg of the journey was in first class. So nice, breakfast was brought to us, coffee and tea. It was quite pleasant. It was a shame that all the other train rides were in what is called 2nd class. The rest of the train experiences were just not as lush as this one. We switched trains in Paris, I saw the outside of the train station for literally two seconds and that is it. Don't worry it is on my list of places to go.
Our first night was to be in Zurich, Switzerland. Not a place that was on my list of places to go, but it was on our Itinerary, and to be honest I hope to go back now. About an hour and half before arriving in Zurich we decided to have a drink, okay a couple. This made us both feel pretty good. The hotel we were staying in just happened to be across the street from the train station. When entering the hotel we were greeted with hot towels and a glass of champagne. (Seriously!) The girl at the front desk was gracious enough to make reservations at a place for a traditional Swiss Fondue, and of course a place for us to go to after. So we did exactly that. The fondue was fabulous. A bottle of wine, melted cheese with bread and potatoes, (really, what more can a girl ask for?) We hit a bar afterwards where we spent 15 Swiss Franks on a drink, way too expensive. We managed to spend all the money that we had exchanged though. It seemed easier just to spend it then to have to exchange it the next day. We met a few more travellers, and the hotel girl was there with some of her friends. So all in all it turned into a pretty good night/morning. Too be honest, I am glad I didn't have to drive the next day. After shopping in the train station, spending money on things that I "soooo needed" we boarded the next train going to Venice, Italy.
I am already tired and I haven't even got to Italy. You are probably tired of reading too. I am going to end it here and add more later. I don't want to lose you to boredom.
*please note, some names may have been or will be changed in the blog to protect those who are innocent!
Oh, where to begin?
My friend *Samantha (Sam) came to see me and had arrived on Thursday Oct. 20. She too has recently gone through a separation and was looking for a chance to get away from it all. (I know you are all thinking two crazy girls out in Italy), but I will tell you now just in case you want to stop reading there is no dirty details to tell, just a lot of late nights!
The day of Sam's arrival had us going for drinks and a bite to eat at one of the pub's I have began to frequent. We sat in the corner by the fire and talked and had a few beers. For some reason though we decided to move up closer to the bar, and well that was the end to our tame night. I am pretty sure I went to bed at 4am, waking up at 615 to go to work.
I survived the day at work, I only had the students til noon, so it wasn't too bad. That night Sam and I took the train to London. Picture this, two girls with suitcases way to full, lugging these heavy things up 3 flights of stairs in heels. Oh what a laugh and sight we must have been, (and it was only the beginning). We found our hotel for the night, a cute room that we could reach wall to wall if we were standing beside one another with our arms out. We dropped our stuff and went to get a bite to eat, guess what we had? Wait for it.... Italian! I know we were going to Italy but pasta and pizza are really my favourite. An early night for us, as I still was only running on about 2 hours of sleep.
In the morning we boarded the train, the first leg and only the first leg of the journey was in first class. So nice, breakfast was brought to us, coffee and tea. It was quite pleasant. It was a shame that all the other train rides were in what is called 2nd class. The rest of the train experiences were just not as lush as this one. We switched trains in Paris, I saw the outside of the train station for literally two seconds and that is it. Don't worry it is on my list of places to go.
Our first night was to be in Zurich, Switzerland. Not a place that was on my list of places to go, but it was on our Itinerary, and to be honest I hope to go back now. About an hour and half before arriving in Zurich we decided to have a drink, okay a couple. This made us both feel pretty good. The hotel we were staying in just happened to be across the street from the train station. When entering the hotel we were greeted with hot towels and a glass of champagne. (Seriously!) The girl at the front desk was gracious enough to make reservations at a place for a traditional Swiss Fondue, and of course a place for us to go to after. So we did exactly that. The fondue was fabulous. A bottle of wine, melted cheese with bread and potatoes, (really, what more can a girl ask for?) We hit a bar afterwards where we spent 15 Swiss Franks on a drink, way too expensive. We managed to spend all the money that we had exchanged though. It seemed easier just to spend it then to have to exchange it the next day. We met a few more travellers, and the hotel girl was there with some of her friends. So all in all it turned into a pretty good night/morning. Too be honest, I am glad I didn't have to drive the next day. After shopping in the train station, spending money on things that I "soooo needed" we boarded the next train going to Venice, Italy.
I am already tired and I haven't even got to Italy. You are probably tired of reading too. I am going to end it here and add more later. I don't want to lose you to boredom.
*please note, some names may have been or will be changed in the blog to protect those who are innocent!
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