So dear friends, it appears that our journey has come to an end. We sadly bid farewell to our beautiful el greco this morning, and took one last loop around Fira town. It really has cooled off in santorini over the past few days. Luckily, we were able to sneak in a few days of sunshine before the cool winds began a gail-forcing.
The cab ride back to the airport was quite adventerous. (i was sure linds was gunna puke. lol..) the driver was RECKLESS with our lives. I kept telling him that he had 'precious cargo' on board, but he did not seem concerned. He had a death wish.
However, we made it to the airport in one piece (or two pieces rather) just to get on the most turbulent flight we have EVER been on. The plane sure was a ROCKIN'. Again, sure linds was gunna puke..but she's a champ. Half an hour later, we landed, in 2 pieces, in athens.
One 45 minutes subway ride later, we arrived at our previous dorm style accommodations to check in to another 6 bed dorm. (what would this night hold we asked ourselves..)
Taking our stuff upstairs, it seemed as if only 1 of the beds was occupied, and no one in the room at that time in the afternoon. So we sorted out our things, claimed a couple of beds, and took to the town (with fingers crossed that no one else would join our room...)
We headed for a nice walk up to the Acropolis. beautiful ruins, but tragically were covered with much scaffolding and support beams- ruining many photo opportunities. Apparently, in the 1930's some people decided to try to 'upkeep' the runis, and actually ended up ruining the ruins. So not so many years later, they began to crumble etc...hense the supports. They are working on really re-doing the ruins, to hopefully get them back to their old selves.
We headed down the giant hill for some much needed nourishment. We found a beautiful little restaurant where we agreed that it was the best dinner we think we've enjoyed on this trip. Dalmates, Cheese croquettes and of course, pasta. But oh so tasty!
After dinner, headed to the streets for some shopping (it had been a few hours since we'd last spent money..it was due). Found some nice things! and ran out of money :( Just enough for cappuccinos in the morning. (of course).
Back to our digs, we entered our room with fingers crossed and breaths held to find a dude sitting on one of the beds. So apparently he's one of our roomates..and we've yet to see the other person occupying the other claimed bed. We may also have 2 more visitors as the night progresses...what an adventure! lol
So, this is the end.
We say farewell, as we're heading to the airport for home in the morning.
We've had a blast, tons of photos and memories...Thanks for reading, and thanks for sharing your comments...we loved the blog within a blog too..
We will be talking to you all soon.
xoxo
m&l
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Most Beaaautiful- El Gecko
Santorini, MOOOOOST BEEEEAAAAUTIFUL! (Happy Halloween!!!!)
we left off:
We had a wonderful night sleep to a delicious buffet breakfast! Sweet!! (We sure do love saving a few bucks!)
After breakfast, we hopped on a bus to Oia. The beautiful picturesque tip of the island (where all the classic photos seem to be snapped). So, we did just that. The sun was shinning, and the temperature was perfect as we romped through Oia. We did some shopping (as if that needs to be said)....and then headed back to our neck of the woods.
We spent some time poolside enjoying a few beverages and then enjoyed a much deserved holiday nap!! After our resticus (greek for rest..lol) we marched hand-in-hand back to Fira town (singing all the way). We partook in the local cuisine of a Gyro and a falafel (scrumptious)- both smothered in fresh tatziki- we were in heaven!
More shopping, and hiking around Fira. More photos taken and another great sunset to watch. We decided to hit up the local Grocer-ish (as chris would say), and got some food for dinner to be enjoyed back at our palace. Bread, cheese, soup, tatziki and a rather large bottle of amaretto and we were ready to settle in for the night.
Dinner down the hatch, we played cards, spied on the neighbours, sang some songs, danced a little and did each others make-up (those photos are priceless..) We seriously contemplated keeping our makeup on last night- simply for the enjoyment of the locals (in the spirit of halloween)...but ultimately thought better of it- the staff may not have appreciated the decorated pillowcases.
After an alcohol induced deep slumber we woke up for round 2 of the buffet breakfast! We have discovered a new love- the local home made yogurt! Soooooo frickin' delicious (especially with honey drizzled on top!)
Today the weather was a little cloudy, overcasty and quite ominious (it tried to rain a few times, but managed- for the most part- to hold off). But we decided that today we would do a walkabout! We booted up, and dressed warm, and took to the cliffs. Along the caldera we found a beautiful path. We made friends with many of the stray dogs and cats that crossed our way...We made it to the small town of Imerovigli to find it completely abandoned. It was a total ghost town. We were hoping to re-fuel and perhaps enjoy a recommended restaurant- but to no avail. So we treked on empty handed. Comforted by a little friend we called 'champion'. (Barb, sing it with us "HOW ABOUT CHAMPION...?? CHAMPION HE'S ANYTHING BUT...") Champion followed us for quite some time and sat with us while we shared an iced tea (that we managed to steal from a local- as everything was closed..) We walked a little farther up the dusty trail before deciding to turn back.
Beautiful walk back down to fira town and the sun decided to come out! We did another round of shopping (i think we've cleaned out santorini!) So, we enjoyed a cappuccino (after sampling the local wine- we made a friend with the chappy at the shoppy). Delicious wine.
Planning on a nice dinner out tonight, we decided that we could not resist another round of the falafel and gyro.
Tragically, after lunch, we headed back to El Greco, to organize our packs. All zipped up and ready to head back to the airport in the morning. (our bags are ready, that doesnt mean that we are though..)
Barb, did you ever find out what your neighbours were doing?!?! Perhaps they were simply trimming the christmas tree?! Or, building a small indoor FORT?! OR, best one yet, installing a swimming pool (you will soon know if this is true when you have drops of chlorinated water saturating your bed!)
Love and OUZO,
M&L
WHAT WE'VE LEARNED ON THIS TRIP (A RETROSPECTICUS):
1)We know we are getting old when we find we have much in common with 70 year old sisters. (But ultimately realize we are better off when one of them almost breaks a hip).
2)One can NEVER get enough Gelato or Cappuccino. There is always room for more! (and we can add nutella to that list too..)
3)It is important (when hoping to avoid an embarassing situation), to clarify if you "like it hot".
4)We are EXPERTS at singing OPERA (in any language...) and yes, we accept tips.
5)On the same note as #3- always ask the lady selling water 'if she has gas'!?
6)One can NEVER take in enough sunsets. It will never get old.
7)American Travellers always PROVE to have something stupid to add to a conversation. (*who, HONESTLY, hasnt heard of toronto?)
8)The dream is free!!
9)Sometimes the best memories are made when you're high on cheep drugs (SUGAR!)
10)Always look UP, and keep your eyes open- cause you never know what may be around the next corner.
we left off:
We had a wonderful night sleep to a delicious buffet breakfast! Sweet!! (We sure do love saving a few bucks!)
After breakfast, we hopped on a bus to Oia. The beautiful picturesque tip of the island (where all the classic photos seem to be snapped). So, we did just that. The sun was shinning, and the temperature was perfect as we romped through Oia. We did some shopping (as if that needs to be said)....and then headed back to our neck of the woods.
We spent some time poolside enjoying a few beverages and then enjoyed a much deserved holiday nap!! After our resticus (greek for rest..lol) we marched hand-in-hand back to Fira town (singing all the way). We partook in the local cuisine of a Gyro and a falafel (scrumptious)- both smothered in fresh tatziki- we were in heaven!
More shopping, and hiking around Fira. More photos taken and another great sunset to watch. We decided to hit up the local Grocer-ish (as chris would say), and got some food for dinner to be enjoyed back at our palace. Bread, cheese, soup, tatziki and a rather large bottle of amaretto and we were ready to settle in for the night.
Dinner down the hatch, we played cards, spied on the neighbours, sang some songs, danced a little and did each others make-up (those photos are priceless..) We seriously contemplated keeping our makeup on last night- simply for the enjoyment of the locals (in the spirit of halloween)...but ultimately thought better of it- the staff may not have appreciated the decorated pillowcases.
After an alcohol induced deep slumber we woke up for round 2 of the buffet breakfast! We have discovered a new love- the local home made yogurt! Soooooo frickin' delicious (especially with honey drizzled on top!)
Today the weather was a little cloudy, overcasty and quite ominious (it tried to rain a few times, but managed- for the most part- to hold off). But we decided that today we would do a walkabout! We booted up, and dressed warm, and took to the cliffs. Along the caldera we found a beautiful path. We made friends with many of the stray dogs and cats that crossed our way...We made it to the small town of Imerovigli to find it completely abandoned. It was a total ghost town. We were hoping to re-fuel and perhaps enjoy a recommended restaurant- but to no avail. So we treked on empty handed. Comforted by a little friend we called 'champion'. (Barb, sing it with us "HOW ABOUT CHAMPION...?? CHAMPION HE'S ANYTHING BUT...") Champion followed us for quite some time and sat with us while we shared an iced tea (that we managed to steal from a local- as everything was closed..) We walked a little farther up the dusty trail before deciding to turn back.
Beautiful walk back down to fira town and the sun decided to come out! We did another round of shopping (i think we've cleaned out santorini!) So, we enjoyed a cappuccino (after sampling the local wine- we made a friend with the chappy at the shoppy). Delicious wine.
Planning on a nice dinner out tonight, we decided that we could not resist another round of the falafel and gyro.
Tragically, after lunch, we headed back to El Greco, to organize our packs. All zipped up and ready to head back to the airport in the morning. (our bags are ready, that doesnt mean that we are though..)
Barb, did you ever find out what your neighbours were doing?!?! Perhaps they were simply trimming the christmas tree?! Or, building a small indoor FORT?! OR, best one yet, installing a swimming pool (you will soon know if this is true when you have drops of chlorinated water saturating your bed!)
Love and OUZO,
M&L
WHAT WE'VE LEARNED ON THIS TRIP (A RETROSPECTICUS):
1)We know we are getting old when we find we have much in common with 70 year old sisters. (But ultimately realize we are better off when one of them almost breaks a hip).
2)One can NEVER get enough Gelato or Cappuccino. There is always room for more! (and we can add nutella to that list too..)
3)It is important (when hoping to avoid an embarassing situation), to clarify if you "like it hot".
4)We are EXPERTS at singing OPERA (in any language...) and yes, we accept tips.
5)On the same note as #3- always ask the lady selling water 'if she has gas'!?
6)One can NEVER take in enough sunsets. It will never get old.
7)American Travellers always PROVE to have something stupid to add to a conversation. (*who, HONESTLY, hasnt heard of toronto?)
8)The dream is free!!
9)Sometimes the best memories are made when you're high on cheep drugs (SUGAR!)
10)Always look UP, and keep your eyes open- cause you never know what may be around the next corner.
Friday, October 30, 2009
What's Greek for Fabio?
A little ahead of ourselves, we are in Greece now, but will finish our adventures in Italy. We met up with our American Tour guide for the Vatican, she was excellent, she knew so much about the history and art work in the museum. Vatican City is actually its own country so technically we even left Italy for a day. (and can now add four countries to our list visited on this trip!)
We loved the Vatican tour spent a long time in the Vatican mueseum and then went into the Sistine Chapel, snuck some photos of Michaelangelo's Fresco! Oopps. Shh don't tell anyone! From there went over to St. Peter's Basilica, the sheer size of the church made our jaws drop! Not too mention all the gold! It was very spiritual we even talked to God, she says what's up!
After the Vatican we headed back to familiar territory. For some well deserved dinner and cappucino after a long day of walking! (Sidor-those Capp's were for you!).
Then we decided to head back to Stella's and again use the heel-toe-express. We made it about half way back when I (Lindsay) realized that to make it I needed some more sugar! Nutella Croissant it was! That made for a giggle-filled adventurous walk home! You should hear our rendition of Italian Opera! The on-lookers sure loved it!
After a good night sleep we awoke early for our next Tour. It started with our driver sleeping in, and being a little late! But nothing could put a damper on our day! (I think we still had a little nutella left in our system!). After a cappuccino stop we headed to Pompeii. Our tour guide was fantastic and a typical Italian dude! Pompeii was incredible we could not believe how advanced the Romans were in 79AD! In door toilets, running water, full spas and bars. Not to mention the brothels galore!
Their attention to detail was unbelievable! All the while, we had a magnificant view of Mount Vesuvius in all her glory.
Back on the bus we were headed to Positano. The coastal drive was stunning and lunch in Positano was delicious. We had some time to shop around, and explore the town! Before we knew it we had to hop back on the bus, but that was okay we were headed to Amalfi! Windey roads up the mountain side left some feeling nauseous. But totally worth it. (Barb, we had a few tears for the views of Amalfi too). We seemed to fall upon a nice gelateria so it was imperative we had some (just for you Sidor!). Took some beautiful photos on the pier and could not believe the perfect sunset! All and all it was a perfect day, we loved Positano and Amalfi, and learned so much in Pompeii.
Woke up at Stella's for our last morning in Rome. While Stella made our cappuccino's Michelle fed baby Pedro (Stella's grand baby). It truly was like staying with an Italian Mama!
We caught our evening flight to Athens, and arrived at our hostel shortly after midnight. We decided that since it was one night, and were leaving early in the morning, that we would stay in a 6 bed female dorm. We didnt take into account people would be sleeping when we arrived. Sssshhhhh. ZZzzzzzzz. We found our bunks in sepearate ends of the room, only to find that one girl was snoring, one was sleep talking and one had a boy in her bed! But we did manage to fall asleep and woke on time to catch our flight to Santorini!
We could not have been more excited for our first glimpse of the island. Half an hour later we set foot on the island we will be calling home for the next 4 days! Arriving at stunning El Greco, our accomodations are sweet- no pun intended! Our place is big enough to sleep four with a kichenette and a terrace. We dropped off our stuff and headed into Fira Town. Amaretto, Mimosas and Greek salads as we caught our first Santorini sunset! We have never seen anything so beautiful!
Headed to bed with smiles on our faces and booze and chocolate in our bellies! Could not be happier. Our theme song since getting to Santorini is "Summer time (and the living is easy!"). The weather has been beautiful and the sun has been shining the entire trip!
Love from Greece!
M & L
We loved the Vatican tour spent a long time in the Vatican mueseum and then went into the Sistine Chapel, snuck some photos of Michaelangelo's Fresco! Oopps. Shh don't tell anyone! From there went over to St. Peter's Basilica, the sheer size of the church made our jaws drop! Not too mention all the gold! It was very spiritual we even talked to God, she says what's up!
After the Vatican we headed back to familiar territory. For some well deserved dinner and cappucino after a long day of walking! (Sidor-those Capp's were for you!).
Then we decided to head back to Stella's and again use the heel-toe-express. We made it about half way back when I (Lindsay) realized that to make it I needed some more sugar! Nutella Croissant it was! That made for a giggle-filled adventurous walk home! You should hear our rendition of Italian Opera! The on-lookers sure loved it!
After a good night sleep we awoke early for our next Tour. It started with our driver sleeping in, and being a little late! But nothing could put a damper on our day! (I think we still had a little nutella left in our system!). After a cappuccino stop we headed to Pompeii. Our tour guide was fantastic and a typical Italian dude! Pompeii was incredible we could not believe how advanced the Romans were in 79AD! In door toilets, running water, full spas and bars. Not to mention the brothels galore!
Their attention to detail was unbelievable! All the while, we had a magnificant view of Mount Vesuvius in all her glory.
Back on the bus we were headed to Positano. The coastal drive was stunning and lunch in Positano was delicious. We had some time to shop around, and explore the town! Before we knew it we had to hop back on the bus, but that was okay we were headed to Amalfi! Windey roads up the mountain side left some feeling nauseous. But totally worth it. (Barb, we had a few tears for the views of Amalfi too). We seemed to fall upon a nice gelateria so it was imperative we had some (just for you Sidor!). Took some beautiful photos on the pier and could not believe the perfect sunset! All and all it was a perfect day, we loved Positano and Amalfi, and learned so much in Pompeii.
Woke up at Stella's for our last morning in Rome. While Stella made our cappuccino's Michelle fed baby Pedro (Stella's grand baby). It truly was like staying with an Italian Mama!
We caught our evening flight to Athens, and arrived at our hostel shortly after midnight. We decided that since it was one night, and were leaving early in the morning, that we would stay in a 6 bed female dorm. We didnt take into account people would be sleeping when we arrived. Sssshhhhh. ZZzzzzzzz. We found our bunks in sepearate ends of the room, only to find that one girl was snoring, one was sleep talking and one had a boy in her bed! But we did manage to fall asleep and woke on time to catch our flight to Santorini!
We could not have been more excited for our first glimpse of the island. Half an hour later we set foot on the island we will be calling home for the next 4 days! Arriving at stunning El Greco, our accomodations are sweet- no pun intended! Our place is big enough to sleep four with a kichenette and a terrace. We dropped off our stuff and headed into Fira Town. Amaretto, Mimosas and Greek salads as we caught our first Santorini sunset! We have never seen anything so beautiful!
Headed to bed with smiles on our faces and booze and chocolate in our bellies! Could not be happier. Our theme song since getting to Santorini is "Summer time (and the living is easy!"). The weather has been beautiful and the sun has been shining the entire trip!
Love from Greece!
M & L
Monday, October 26, 2009
Venezia to Roma!
Oh Italia...how we love thee!!!!
Our last full day in Venice was filled with adventure!! We awoke to a rainy morning, that cleared up quite quickly (to our pleasure!). We went for cappuccinos and pastries (rough life, we know..lol) and headed for some shopping! Many things purchased, and our packs weighed down, we decided that we definitely shouldnt be buying too much more.
With that sad thought in mind, we were heading back to the hostel to drop off our things when ALL OF A SUDDEN, non other than lindsays gondolier boyfriend intercepted our course! It was fate. He wanted to take us for a ride in his gondola. With some bartering on price we were all happy (especially linds)...we followed our friend to his gondola!!! However, once we arrived to the gondola, to our great dissapointment, we found out that we'd been fooled. The good ol' 'bait and switch'. The handsome gondolier is just the bait to attract the ladies, then he passes them off to 'marco'. Lol..having said that, Marco was fabulous! He filled us in on much of the history of venice. Showed us some incredible sights and filled our heads with knowledge. We couldnt have asked for more (besides the eye candy). We learned about cassonova, and marco polo (and his pasta trades with asia..)
Gondola adventure came to an end, and we found a fabulous little restaurant/cafe for dinner. We shared a delicious Gorgonzola gnocchi and a margarita pizza. Tasty tasty tasty. We agree on the fact that pasta and pizza may never be the same again- after Italy.
We wrapped up the evening as all true venetians do. Gelato and people watching at st marks square. Delicious and entertaining. European fashions are spectacular!
We woke up on our last morning in Venice with a tear in our eyes (well, i guess 2 tears, cause we had 1 each..)Definitely bittersweet, because we were sad to be leaving venice in our wake, but excited for rome and greece.
water taxi to the train station, we managed to make it to the train without any issues. We enjoyed the scenery, had a little snooze and before we knew it, we were in ROMA!!
Arriving around 4pm, we walked to our bed and breakfast. Stella's house is literally 'stellas house'. Its awesome. She is a little italian 'mama'. Very sweet, with very broken 'anglaise'. We dropped our things, and headed out to see the sights. (no time to spare!!!)
We hit the heel-toe-express, and headed to the heart of roma! We saw the trevi fountain (breathtaking), took in the spanish steps (breathtaking..lol), temple adriano and the pantheon. Impossible to do these places justice with just our words. They were beyond belief and we were awestruck. Photos a-plenty!!
Long day, and long evening of sights, we headed back to stellas for a sleep. Up this morning for another busy day! Stella makes a mean cappuccino *perhaps the best yet*.
The sun is shinning, the weather is BEAUTIFUL! we cant believe our luck. It couldnt be a nicer day. We are shocked by the clothing that the locals are wearing. Full winter coats complete with scarves, and here we are in short sleeves, sunglasses and summer dresses. Oh well, we will enjoy the sun while we have it!!!!
We headed to the Metro terminus to brave the subway system and found the collesium. Another spectacular sight!!!
We are now heading for a cappuccino/gelato to await our group tour for the vatican! Looking forward to the afternoon.
Tomorrow we have a fun filled day and early morning- we will be sure to post on that with our next blog!! *pompeii, positano and the amalfi coast* stay tuned!
take it easy, and keep working hard (someones got to)...
missing yous,
M and L.
Our last full day in Venice was filled with adventure!! We awoke to a rainy morning, that cleared up quite quickly (to our pleasure!). We went for cappuccinos and pastries (rough life, we know..lol) and headed for some shopping! Many things purchased, and our packs weighed down, we decided that we definitely shouldnt be buying too much more.
With that sad thought in mind, we were heading back to the hostel to drop off our things when ALL OF A SUDDEN, non other than lindsays gondolier boyfriend intercepted our course! It was fate. He wanted to take us for a ride in his gondola. With some bartering on price we were all happy (especially linds)...we followed our friend to his gondola!!! However, once we arrived to the gondola, to our great dissapointment, we found out that we'd been fooled. The good ol' 'bait and switch'. The handsome gondolier is just the bait to attract the ladies, then he passes them off to 'marco'. Lol..having said that, Marco was fabulous! He filled us in on much of the history of venice. Showed us some incredible sights and filled our heads with knowledge. We couldnt have asked for more (besides the eye candy). We learned about cassonova, and marco polo (and his pasta trades with asia..)
Gondola adventure came to an end, and we found a fabulous little restaurant/cafe for dinner. We shared a delicious Gorgonzola gnocchi and a margarita pizza. Tasty tasty tasty. We agree on the fact that pasta and pizza may never be the same again- after Italy.
We wrapped up the evening as all true venetians do. Gelato and people watching at st marks square. Delicious and entertaining. European fashions are spectacular!
We woke up on our last morning in Venice with a tear in our eyes (well, i guess 2 tears, cause we had 1 each..)Definitely bittersweet, because we were sad to be leaving venice in our wake, but excited for rome and greece.
water taxi to the train station, we managed to make it to the train without any issues. We enjoyed the scenery, had a little snooze and before we knew it, we were in ROMA!!
Arriving around 4pm, we walked to our bed and breakfast. Stella's house is literally 'stellas house'. Its awesome. She is a little italian 'mama'. Very sweet, with very broken 'anglaise'. We dropped our things, and headed out to see the sights. (no time to spare!!!)
We hit the heel-toe-express, and headed to the heart of roma! We saw the trevi fountain (breathtaking), took in the spanish steps (breathtaking..lol), temple adriano and the pantheon. Impossible to do these places justice with just our words. They were beyond belief and we were awestruck. Photos a-plenty!!
Long day, and long evening of sights, we headed back to stellas for a sleep. Up this morning for another busy day! Stella makes a mean cappuccino *perhaps the best yet*.
The sun is shinning, the weather is BEAUTIFUL! we cant believe our luck. It couldnt be a nicer day. We are shocked by the clothing that the locals are wearing. Full winter coats complete with scarves, and here we are in short sleeves, sunglasses and summer dresses. Oh well, we will enjoy the sun while we have it!!!!
We headed to the Metro terminus to brave the subway system and found the collesium. Another spectacular sight!!!
We are now heading for a cappuccino/gelato to await our group tour for the vatican! Looking forward to the afternoon.
Tomorrow we have a fun filled day and early morning- we will be sure to post on that with our next blog!! *pompeii, positano and the amalfi coast* stay tuned!
take it easy, and keep working hard (someones got to)...
missing yous,
M and L.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Gondoli- Gondola
buona sera ladies and gentleman (from Venezia!)
VENICE IS INCREDIBLE! we LOVE it...i think we are going to move here, and those of you who miss us will have to travel to us!!! we'll be sure to have an appt big enough for some crashers!
We got here early afternoon and spent a good few hours trying to find out where our hostel was. The streets are all so windey, and many un-nammed alley-ways definitely DONT help the situation. We ended up walking around in circles, and passing the same places time and time again! We were having a good laugh at our own expenses all the while! FINALLY, we found where we were meant to be, an unmarked door on an unmarked street (HOW COULD WE POSSIBLE HAVE MISSED THAT?!?). We entered the secret door to find out that this was just the 'check in office' to our hostel and not actually where we would be staying. After 'checking in' we were escorted to our place (by a grumpy italian lady who did not speak english...) but we got there all the same! Our room is INCREDIBLE! lol...better than expected, especially for a hostel. We were expecting a rat infested, bed-bug ridden dump- but nope! we lucked out! and we even have our own bathroom! (double bonus!!)
We dropped off our stuff and quickly headed out to hit the streets! We had a delicious pasta dinner just at the base of the Rialto bridge. We then took a wander around. We found a small cafe and enjoyed a delicious cappuccino before taking a walk. We didnt know where we were going, or where we were coming from for that matter...but we went anyway. We ended up quite far from where we knew-- and asked some pleasant non-english speaking people how to get back. It was a little adventure...but we loved it!
We had a great night sleep in our fancy digs and woke early to start our next day of adventures!!! Showered and shaved we hit the streets again- fresh and ready to brave the new day in this strange city... first things first, CAFE, CAPPUCCINO!! delicious! Then we took to the shops (get ready for GIFTS!!! we bought some!)
Our place is steps away from the rialto bridge, which means we are within minutes of the St Marks Square. (my worst nightmare!). But, we braved the birds, and the crowds and managed to really take in the sights. The birds were in their glory and we tried our best NOT to get in their way. It sure was beautiful though!!
We have fallen in love with the Gondoliers-- (sorry Jeff)..Lindsay is a sucker for the striped shirt wearing italian men. (there is one in particular that she has her eye on!). Me on the other hand..i have taken to an african-italian (is that politically correct?!) lol. Our italian lovers took us out for dinner....(we WISH!)
No, seriously..we do love them!
We went for a beautiful dinner of pizza and salad....
after dinner, another cafe, and more CAPPUCCINO we also managed to squeeze in a gelato (when in venice right?!) I think italy has created a couple of MONSTERS!
We sure have had a couple fun filled days! Tons of laughs and MILLIONS of pictures! We really are becoming quite the photographers! We may sell our photos to be able to keep travelling...what do you think moms??
Tomorrow we have one more day to take in all that venice has to offer, then we will be on our way to ROME!
We will be heading to bed shortly, to dream of gondoliers, gelato and cappuccinos. What sweet dreams they will be! (sorry jeff).
Barb, WHICH TEA DID YOU CHOOSE?? you really did leave us hanging!!! We look forward to your next blog...you should call it blog lob-blogs (get it?? like bob loblaw..HAHAHHAHAHA) Italy hasnt crushed our senses of humour!!!
Love from ITALIA,
CIAO,
M&L
VENICE IS INCREDIBLE! we LOVE it...i think we are going to move here, and those of you who miss us will have to travel to us!!! we'll be sure to have an appt big enough for some crashers!
We got here early afternoon and spent a good few hours trying to find out where our hostel was. The streets are all so windey, and many un-nammed alley-ways definitely DONT help the situation. We ended up walking around in circles, and passing the same places time and time again! We were having a good laugh at our own expenses all the while! FINALLY, we found where we were meant to be, an unmarked door on an unmarked street (HOW COULD WE POSSIBLE HAVE MISSED THAT?!?). We entered the secret door to find out that this was just the 'check in office' to our hostel and not actually where we would be staying. After 'checking in' we were escorted to our place (by a grumpy italian lady who did not speak english...) but we got there all the same! Our room is INCREDIBLE! lol...better than expected, especially for a hostel. We were expecting a rat infested, bed-bug ridden dump- but nope! we lucked out! and we even have our own bathroom! (double bonus!!)
We dropped off our stuff and quickly headed out to hit the streets! We had a delicious pasta dinner just at the base of the Rialto bridge. We then took a wander around. We found a small cafe and enjoyed a delicious cappuccino before taking a walk. We didnt know where we were going, or where we were coming from for that matter...but we went anyway. We ended up quite far from where we knew-- and asked some pleasant non-english speaking people how to get back. It was a little adventure...but we loved it!
We had a great night sleep in our fancy digs and woke early to start our next day of adventures!!! Showered and shaved we hit the streets again- fresh and ready to brave the new day in this strange city... first things first, CAFE, CAPPUCCINO!! delicious! Then we took to the shops (get ready for GIFTS!!! we bought some!)
Our place is steps away from the rialto bridge, which means we are within minutes of the St Marks Square. (my worst nightmare!). But, we braved the birds, and the crowds and managed to really take in the sights. The birds were in their glory and we tried our best NOT to get in their way. It sure was beautiful though!!
We have fallen in love with the Gondoliers-- (sorry Jeff)..Lindsay is a sucker for the striped shirt wearing italian men. (there is one in particular that she has her eye on!). Me on the other hand..i have taken to an african-italian (is that politically correct?!) lol. Our italian lovers took us out for dinner....(we WISH!)
No, seriously..we do love them!
We went for a beautiful dinner of pizza and salad....
after dinner, another cafe, and more CAPPUCCINO we also managed to squeeze in a gelato (when in venice right?!) I think italy has created a couple of MONSTERS!
We sure have had a couple fun filled days! Tons of laughs and MILLIONS of pictures! We really are becoming quite the photographers! We may sell our photos to be able to keep travelling...what do you think moms??
Tomorrow we have one more day to take in all that venice has to offer, then we will be on our way to ROME!
We will be heading to bed shortly, to dream of gondoliers, gelato and cappuccinos. What sweet dreams they will be! (sorry jeff).
Barb, WHICH TEA DID YOU CHOOSE?? you really did leave us hanging!!! We look forward to your next blog...you should call it blog lob-blogs (get it?? like bob loblaw..HAHAHHAHAHA) Italy hasnt crushed our senses of humour!!!
Love from ITALIA,
CIAO,
M&L
Thursday, October 22, 2009
on the dusty road...
Here we are in London, Heathrow airport awaiting our much anticipated flight to VENICE!!
Scotland went by in a flash, but was so incredible! St Andrews was all we'd hoped it would be. Such a beautiful little town filled with beautiful sights and such nice people. Fanny fit right in, and seemed as if she really belonged. It was nice to see her in her 'element'. The view from her home 'deans court' was breathtaking. It looked right out onto cathedral ruins and the acropolis. (we took photos, too bad for you-- we're not attaching them..lol) you'll have to wait!
Edinburgh was so spectacular! The history, as you walk the streets, is palpable. The buildings are all stone beauties that cannot be duplicated. We spent many hours just walking around admiring the architecture (again, tons of photos..lol). We learned of the history of Edinburgh, and the underground 'housing' that many of the locals in the 17th and 18th century occupied. Incredible that these places are still quite intact. (reinforced, but intact none the less..)
We shared some GREAT FOOD..lol. Our ongoing joke was that we came to scotland and had fantastic: indian, mexican, italian meals. But, we did manage to have some local delicacies as well. We were able to find vegetarian HAGGIS (not quite the same effect as the real thing, but delicious and much enjoyed!!) we also HAD to partake in another local treat (per Fannys insistance...) FRIED MARS BAR!! we loved it!
We hit the streets with shopping on the brain, and managed to do some damage (to our wallets)...Coming home with some souveniers (lindsay was thinking of others..) and things for ourselves (michelle was looking out for #1!!)
It has been 4 days filled with good food, MANY LAUGHS, moms birthday (shout out! happy birthday!) shopping and sightseeing. So many memories made so far, we cant wait for the road ahead!!
Hope you all are well, thinking of you, and wishing you could all be here with us (and we dont wish we were there with you..haha).
But, on that note, we're off...lindsay has spotted a store me MUST GO IN! more shopping here we come!
We will be keeping in touch, stay tuned. Venice is the next adventure!!
love yous,
M&L
Scotland went by in a flash, but was so incredible! St Andrews was all we'd hoped it would be. Such a beautiful little town filled with beautiful sights and such nice people. Fanny fit right in, and seemed as if she really belonged. It was nice to see her in her 'element'. The view from her home 'deans court' was breathtaking. It looked right out onto cathedral ruins and the acropolis. (we took photos, too bad for you-- we're not attaching them..lol) you'll have to wait!
Edinburgh was so spectacular! The history, as you walk the streets, is palpable. The buildings are all stone beauties that cannot be duplicated. We spent many hours just walking around admiring the architecture (again, tons of photos..lol). We learned of the history of Edinburgh, and the underground 'housing' that many of the locals in the 17th and 18th century occupied. Incredible that these places are still quite intact. (reinforced, but intact none the less..)
We shared some GREAT FOOD..lol. Our ongoing joke was that we came to scotland and had fantastic: indian, mexican, italian meals. But, we did manage to have some local delicacies as well. We were able to find vegetarian HAGGIS (not quite the same effect as the real thing, but delicious and much enjoyed!!) we also HAD to partake in another local treat (per Fannys insistance...) FRIED MARS BAR!! we loved it!
We hit the streets with shopping on the brain, and managed to do some damage (to our wallets)...Coming home with some souveniers (lindsay was thinking of others..) and things for ourselves (michelle was looking out for #1!!)
It has been 4 days filled with good food, MANY LAUGHS, moms birthday (shout out! happy birthday!) shopping and sightseeing. So many memories made so far, we cant wait for the road ahead!!
Hope you all are well, thinking of you, and wishing you could all be here with us (and we dont wish we were there with you..haha).
But, on that note, we're off...lindsay has spotted a store me MUST GO IN! more shopping here we come!
We will be keeping in touch, stay tuned. Venice is the next adventure!!
love yous,
M&L
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Land of the Scots
Hey dudes,
M and L here..in Scotland...and all is going well so far.
We boarded our plane at 6pm (no delays) and settled in and watched a movie!! lol, COCO AVANT CHANEL- perfect! it was really good!
Arrived in edinburgh right on schedule, and found that we had about 6 hours before we had to meet mom at the train station. We wandered around town a bit (with our big packs on...and feeling a little like SHERPAS, we came up with a brilliant plan!)
We walked to our hotel (where we wouldnt even be checking in for another 36 hours or so) and pre-checked our big packs).
Little overnight bags in hand shopping was so much easier!!!! We went to an art museum here in edinburgh (lots of beautiful art pieces...) EVERYTHING HERE SEEMS SOOOOO OLD!
We picked mom up from the train station (her train came from England). Then shortly after, we headed to St Andrews (Where fanny lives- but we werent meeting up with her until the next day).
Settled in to our 'picture perfect' bed and breakfast and went for a nice vegetarian dinner. Had a wonderful sleep after a long day of travel.
Our second day in St Andrews was spent wandering the beautiful streets of the small town. Had some nice coffees in some nice cafes and took in the sights, sounds, and smells of the area. Met up with Fanny in the afternoon, and she was so happy to see/have us in scotland!!!!
We had a fantastic european style full curry dinner (as delicious as usual) and boarded the train back to edinburgh- for another good night sleep.
That brings us to right now-- our official first morning in edinburgh. We are staying here for the next 2 days, and there seems to be so much to see and do. We are going to check out all the major sites while fitting in some shopping of course (of course...!)
Guess thats all for now...
we will be keeping in touch.
Keep fit and have fun! (and try to stay warm-- except for those of you in warm countries- in which case, try to stay cool!!!)
Michelle and Lindsay
M and L here..in Scotland...and all is going well so far.
We boarded our plane at 6pm (no delays) and settled in and watched a movie!! lol, COCO AVANT CHANEL- perfect! it was really good!
Arrived in edinburgh right on schedule, and found that we had about 6 hours before we had to meet mom at the train station. We wandered around town a bit (with our big packs on...and feeling a little like SHERPAS, we came up with a brilliant plan!)
We walked to our hotel (where we wouldnt even be checking in for another 36 hours or so) and pre-checked our big packs).
Little overnight bags in hand shopping was so much easier!!!! We went to an art museum here in edinburgh (lots of beautiful art pieces...) EVERYTHING HERE SEEMS SOOOOO OLD!
We picked mom up from the train station (her train came from England). Then shortly after, we headed to St Andrews (Where fanny lives- but we werent meeting up with her until the next day).
Settled in to our 'picture perfect' bed and breakfast and went for a nice vegetarian dinner. Had a wonderful sleep after a long day of travel.
Our second day in St Andrews was spent wandering the beautiful streets of the small town. Had some nice coffees in some nice cafes and took in the sights, sounds, and smells of the area. Met up with Fanny in the afternoon, and she was so happy to see/have us in scotland!!!!
We had a fantastic european style full curry dinner (as delicious as usual) and boarded the train back to edinburgh- for another good night sleep.
That brings us to right now-- our official first morning in edinburgh. We are staying here for the next 2 days, and there seems to be so much to see and do. We are going to check out all the major sites while fitting in some shopping of course (of course...!)
Guess thats all for now...
we will be keeping in touch.
Keep fit and have fun! (and try to stay warm-- except for those of you in warm countries- in which case, try to stay cool!!!)
Michelle and Lindsay
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