Well as predicted, finals sucked. On a better note, they are over. On a worse note, I am leaving Italy in a day. Talk about roller coaster of emotions! That was pretty much all that went on this week. Friday, I went to the market with Meg for the hundredth time and made a few last minute purchases (can't disclose what they were because some were gifts!). I know it's cliche, but it just hasn't hit me that I am leaving yet. In fear of having a complete breakdown, we have been listing all of the things we aren't going to miss in Italy (small showers, creepy Italian guys, and smells of sewage) because we don't want to think about the endless list of things we actually will miss.
I am not sure I can truly put this experience into words. It was amazing and life changing... but that that doesn't really do it. I am a different person than I was five months ago: a world traveler, a blogger, a wine connoisseur, and partially fluent in Italian (and by partially fluent, I mean I can order gelato pretty damn well). All of those changes are something to be proud of (especially the wine skills), but the true change is how I've grown as a person. I have gained independence, patience, and knowledge. I will miss this place terribly, but cannot wait to see family, friends, and, of course, Darren. I will update again soon when I get back!
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Sunday, May 1, 2011
When in Rome, do as the Manions do
So I started this post a while ago, but just now finished. Rewind to two weeks ago...
Saturday, Lacey and I decided to take a day trip to Cortona, where the movie, Under the Tuscan Sun, was filmed. The train was about an hour and a half and the tickets were cheap. After getting off of the train we took a bus up to the top of the hill, where the town is located. The town was like many other quaint Tuscan towns we have visited: cute cafes, local mom-and-pop shops, and a main piazza (or square) where all the action goes on. We walked around the town where there was a market with everything from produce to clothes. After, we climbed what seemed 500 steps to reach the Basilica of Santa Margherita, where St.Margret lays in a tomb by the alter. A bit morbid, but the beautiful church was worth the walk. When our feet couldn't take anymore, we decided it was time to head back to the train station, only to find out that there was a car race was taking place and the route of the race was from the bottom of the hill to the top. No buses were running until 8pm! Our two options were walk to the bottom or take a cab. Not knowing how much a cab would be, we decided to walk. After finally making it to the bottom, we found the station and got back home. What an adventure!
Sunday, I ran (literally had to run) to catch a bus to the airport. When I got there I stood at the gate anxiously awaiting my parents' arrival. I was so excited to see them walk through the door, and even more excited to introduce them to the city I have fallen in love with. I wanted every second to be perfect, but let's be honest, nothing is ever perfect. All in all, we had a good time. They visited most of the churches and museums in Florence and I joined them when I wasn't in class. I was able to get a museum card that allowed them to cut the lines. One evening we went to Fiesole, a hillside town overlooking Florence, where we had an amazing dinner prepared with all fresh ingredients. I had spaghetti with vegetables and wild boar that was to die for! We went to Rome for a day where we visited the Colosseum and had a tour of the Vatican.
Later, we met my mom's cousin I had stayed with over Spring Break. I was so happy to see her and her husband again!
The week flew by, and before I knew it I was hugging them goodbye. Luckily, I will be seeing them soon!
This week was our last week of classes before our final exams. Thursday, my Business of Art class went to see Damien Hirst's For the Love of God, a skull covered in 8,600 diamonds. Have you heard of it? If not, you may be scratching your head at the idea of this piece of art, but it was really interesting because Damien Hirst is one of the biggest contemporary artists today. The room is covered in black velvet (so it doesn't reflect any light) and pitch black, the only thing that is illuminated is the skull. Ok, so you still might be scratching your head, but trust me, it was pretty cool. Thursday was also my Italian final. I will miss leaving class excited to test out new words, and even more, I'll miss my sweet, hilarious teacher, Serena. I wish I could continue studying Italian back in the U.S., but my college doesn't offer it. After our final we celebrated with some wine. I continued celebrating at dinner and after dinner at a bar. We had a great time. Needless to say, Friday was spent recovering from all of the celebrating I did. Yesterday, we went shopping at the market. It has kind of become a weekend routine, an expensive weekend routine. I bought some more gifts for people at home and of course, another scarf for myself. Italy has turned me into the biggest scarf addict, I already want another one! I guess I'll just have to wait and see how much money is left at the end of the week ;) Last night was Bianco Notte, or White Night in Florence. I can't really explain it better than - a night Florentines stay up and have a huge party. There's always a party going on in Florence! In the main piazzas there were different performances. We walked around the city listening to everything from tribal to jazz music. On the way home, we walked across a bridge with a DJ playing music. The bridge was full of people singing and dancing in the streets. We were sold! We ended up dancing for two hours jamming to classic rock, random Italian music, and techno. We had a blast! Now only six days until I return to the states, but before I get all emotional, I have to think about my finals this week. It's no coincidence that I have a final tomorrow and I am just now finding time to finish this post. For now, I am focusing on how much these finals are going to suck, and not about going home. I'll save that for an emotional post later in the week.
P.S. Shout out to Cynthia! I can't believe Steve proposed at Piazzale Michelangelo! It is so beautiful up there! I bet it was amazing! I have climbed the steps, but I took the path up with my parents. So glad to share stories with you. Look forward to chatting more when I get back!
Saturday, Lacey and I decided to take a day trip to Cortona, where the movie, Under the Tuscan Sun, was filmed. The train was about an hour and a half and the tickets were cheap. After getting off of the train we took a bus up to the top of the hill, where the town is located. The town was like many other quaint Tuscan towns we have visited: cute cafes, local mom-and-pop shops, and a main piazza (or square) where all the action goes on. We walked around the town where there was a market with everything from produce to clothes. After, we climbed what seemed 500 steps to reach the Basilica of Santa Margherita, where St.Margret lays in a tomb by the alter. A bit morbid, but the beautiful church was worth the walk. When our feet couldn't take anymore, we decided it was time to head back to the train station, only to find out that there was a car race was taking place and the route of the race was from the bottom of the hill to the top. No buses were running until 8pm! Our two options were walk to the bottom or take a cab. Not knowing how much a cab would be, we decided to walk. After finally making it to the bottom, we found the station and got back home. What an adventure!
Looking down from Cortona. It's a long way down!
This was outside a little antique store. Isn't that cute?
Sunday, I ran (literally had to run) to catch a bus to the airport. When I got there I stood at the gate anxiously awaiting my parents' arrival. I was so excited to see them walk through the door, and even more excited to introduce them to the city I have fallen in love with. I wanted every second to be perfect, but let's be honest, nothing is ever perfect. All in all, we had a good time. They visited most of the churches and museums in Florence and I joined them when I wasn't in class. I was able to get a museum card that allowed them to cut the lines. One evening we went to Fiesole, a hillside town overlooking Florence, where we had an amazing dinner prepared with all fresh ingredients. I had spaghetti with vegetables and wild boar that was to die for! We went to Rome for a day where we visited the Colosseum and had a tour of the Vatican.
Mom, Dad, and I at the Colosseum!
Built in 80 AD and held about 50,000 people!
Hallway in the Vatican lined with maps. Wow!
Renzo, Angela, Mom, and Dad
We drove around Rome, seeing ancient ruins, and stopped at San Giovanni Laterano, where the Pope just so happened to being giving mass! We saw a glimpse of him, but had to leave so we could catch our train. I am so glad my mom got to meet her cousin and we were able to see so much of Rome. Later in the week, we visited Piazzale Michelangelo, which I insisted on bringing them to. They weren't too happy to be climbing yet another hill, but when arrived at the top we were greeted by the breathtaking view that made the walk there seem insignificant.
Sweeties at Piazzale Michelangelo
This week was our last week of classes before our final exams. Thursday, my Business of Art class went to see Damien Hirst's For the Love of God, a skull covered in 8,600 diamonds. Have you heard of it? If not, you may be scratching your head at the idea of this piece of art, but it was really interesting because Damien Hirst is one of the biggest contemporary artists today. The room is covered in black velvet (so it doesn't reflect any light) and pitch black, the only thing that is illuminated is the skull. Ok, so you still might be scratching your head, but trust me, it was pretty cool. Thursday was also my Italian final. I will miss leaving class excited to test out new words, and even more, I'll miss my sweet, hilarious teacher, Serena. I wish I could continue studying Italian back in the U.S., but my college doesn't offer it. After our final we celebrated with some wine. I continued celebrating at dinner and after dinner at a bar. We had a great time. Needless to say, Friday was spent recovering from all of the celebrating I did. Yesterday, we went shopping at the market. It has kind of become a weekend routine, an expensive weekend routine. I bought some more gifts for people at home and of course, another scarf for myself. Italy has turned me into the biggest scarf addict, I already want another one! I guess I'll just have to wait and see how much money is left at the end of the week ;) Last night was Bianco Notte, or White Night in Florence. I can't really explain it better than - a night Florentines stay up and have a huge party. There's always a party going on in Florence! In the main piazzas there were different performances. We walked around the city listening to everything from tribal to jazz music. On the way home, we walked across a bridge with a DJ playing music. The bridge was full of people singing and dancing in the streets. We were sold! We ended up dancing for two hours jamming to classic rock, random Italian music, and techno. We had a blast! Now only six days until I return to the states, but before I get all emotional, I have to think about my finals this week. It's no coincidence that I have a final tomorrow and I am just now finding time to finish this post. For now, I am focusing on how much these finals are going to suck, and not about going home. I'll save that for an emotional post later in the week.
P.S. Shout out to Cynthia! I can't believe Steve proposed at Piazzale Michelangelo! It is so beautiful up there! I bet it was amazing! I have climbed the steps, but I took the path up with my parents. So glad to share stories with you. Look forward to chatting more when I get back!
Monday, April 11, 2011
The Views of Italy
Once again I have neglected my followers for quite some time (despite constant reminders from my dad). My deepest apologies, but you must understand that between frequenting vineyards and eating gelato (along with dealing with subsequent guilt that follows) I don't have much time for blogging! Rewind to two weeks ago. On Friday, I started the weekend started out great with a site visit to two of the Frescobaldi vineyards. At the second we enjoyed a light lunch and wine tasting. My teacher, being a Frescobaldi herself, was able to give us a private tour of the estates. Talk about connections! Oh and I guess this would be a good time to warn everyone back home that I have become quite the wine snob (despite the 3 euro bottle of wine currently in my fridge).
Saturday, Lacey and I set out for a weekend adventure to Cinque Terre, a cluster of five small towns on the northwestern coast of Italy. After packing a backpack, purchasing a train ticket (that cost only ten euros), and about two and a half hours we were in Riomaggiore, the first of the five towns. The packed train literally 'oood' and 'ahhhd' at the first glimpse of the royal blue ocean and mountainous coast. It was funny, but completely justified. I mean I have to admit, I may have let out an 'oh my gosh' myself. It was gorgeous!
We walked on a trail called via dell'amore (road of love) from the first town to the second town. Along the way, there are locks attached to gates, wires, and anything possible with initials and dates as couples' way to symbolize their 'everlasting love.' Cute! The trail, which was fairly easy, had amazing views and took us to the second town, Manarola. After walking along the trail, we were ready for some food. Lacey and I got some pizza and focaccia and headed down to a bench overlooking the water to eat. The trail from the second to third town was destroyed in a landslide, so we took a train to the third town, Corniglia. Little did we know, after getting dropped off by the train, we had to climb about 500 steps to get to the actual town.
We rented a room for the night in Corniglia. Julia, the landlord with drawn-on eyebrows and not much taller than my shoulders, showed us our bedroom (which was fairly large), small balcony, room with a fridge and couch, and the bathroom, which is bigger than the one in our apartment now. There was even a little patio with a table and chairs. Lacey and I changed out of our sweaty clothes and went out to explore the town. We walked down to the marina and dipped our toes in, sitting in awe at the sun's reflection sparkling on the water. A little while later, we walked back into town, bought a bottle of wine, and sat on a bench to watch the sun set on the water. It was perfect! The town was quiet, peaceful and untainted by loud tourists.
For dinner, we went to a small restaurant in town. A English-speaking woman at the restaurant said that region was known for their pesto. I was sold. The pesto was great! After the food and wine and walking all day, Lacey and I were ready for bed. We went back to our room where I laid on top of the covers to avoid any possible bed bugs, until I was freezing cold, then bit the bullet and snuggled up under the covers. The next day we packed up and hit the trail. The trail wasn't easy, but I enjoyed the hike that went up and down mountains and through olive groves. At one point, we saw a a trail that had a rope to use to get down a steep slope. It was terrifying and fun at the same time.
Everyone we passed were so friendly, always saying 'Bongiorno!" One woman we passed noticed we spoke English. Her name was Evelyn, originally from New York herself, now living in Italy. She asked us to take her picture jumping in the air and then took our picture jumping in the air. She took my e-mail address and said she'd send me the picture. How sweet!
After two hours, we finally arrived in the fourth town, Vernazza. I got some Kit Kat gelato which was just as good as it sounds and reminded me a little bit of home. We hopped on the ferry to the last town which provided some much needed breeze and rest for our feetsies. Ten minutes later, we were in Monterosso. After picking up some sandwiches and wine we headed to the beach and caught some rays. Later on the train ride home a woman came up to us, noticing we spoke English, and said 'Are you Americans?' Turns out she is a retired market research executive who is traveling around Europe for six months. What are the odds?!? We talked about all of our traveling experiences and a lot about marketing. Lacey and I walked home from the train station talking about the amazing conversation we'd just had and the amazing time we had in Cinque Terre. It's so nice to be able to travel with a good friend whom you can share laughs and life-long memories with.
The following week was your usual: visited a Renaissance villa, got some gelato, checked out a new art gallery, took an Italian exam. Just the usual. Don't worry, I did have a reality check when I realized I had yet to plan housing for next year or my fall schedule. Now for last weekend. After such a hectic week, there was no time to plan the trip to Paris I'd been hoping for. I eventually came to accept that Paris would have to be a trip for my next Europe visit and decided to enjoy Florence. Saturday, I finally climbed 463 steps to the top of the Duomo (the cathedral in Florence). The sea of terracotta rooftops and mountainous backdrops were breathtaking!
Sunday we got salami and bread at the market and headed up to Piazzale Michelangelo where you can see all of Florence's gems in one view: the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Vecchio, and Santa Croce.
The tulips in bloom and music of an outdoor restaurant nearby were the cherries on top. Not to mention the beautiful sunny weather (sorry to all of you Pennsylvanians stuck in 40 degree temperatures). I was glad to cross a few things off my list of things to do around Florence. Now, I am getting excited for the arrival of my parents next week and showing them the city I've fallen in love with. I'll try not to wait so long before posting again! Ciao!
Saturday, Lacey and I set out for a weekend adventure to Cinque Terre, a cluster of five small towns on the northwestern coast of Italy. After packing a backpack, purchasing a train ticket (that cost only ten euros), and about two and a half hours we were in Riomaggiore, the first of the five towns. The packed train literally 'oood' and 'ahhhd' at the first glimpse of the royal blue ocean and mountainous coast. It was funny, but completely justified. I mean I have to admit, I may have let out an 'oh my gosh' myself. It was gorgeous!
We rented a room for the night in Corniglia. Julia, the landlord with drawn-on eyebrows and not much taller than my shoulders, showed us our bedroom (which was fairly large), small balcony, room with a fridge and couch, and the bathroom, which is bigger than the one in our apartment now. There was even a little patio with a table and chairs. Lacey and I changed out of our sweaty clothes and went out to explore the town. We walked down to the marina and dipped our toes in, sitting in awe at the sun's reflection sparkling on the water. A little while later, we walked back into town, bought a bottle of wine, and sat on a bench to watch the sun set on the water. It was perfect! The town was quiet, peaceful and untainted by loud tourists.
For dinner, we went to a small restaurant in town. A English-speaking woman at the restaurant said that region was known for their pesto. I was sold. The pesto was great! After the food and wine and walking all day, Lacey and I were ready for bed. We went back to our room where I laid on top of the covers to avoid any possible bed bugs, until I was freezing cold, then bit the bullet and snuggled up under the covers. The next day we packed up and hit the trail. The trail wasn't easy, but I enjoyed the hike that went up and down mountains and through olive groves. At one point, we saw a a trail that had a rope to use to get down a steep slope. It was terrifying and fun at the same time.
Everyone we passed were so friendly, always saying 'Bongiorno!" One woman we passed noticed we spoke English. Her name was Evelyn, originally from New York herself, now living in Italy. She asked us to take her picture jumping in the air and then took our picture jumping in the air. She took my e-mail address and said she'd send me the picture. How sweet!
After two hours, we finally arrived in the fourth town, Vernazza. I got some Kit Kat gelato which was just as good as it sounds and reminded me a little bit of home. We hopped on the ferry to the last town which provided some much needed breeze and rest for our feetsies. Ten minutes later, we were in Monterosso. After picking up some sandwiches and wine we headed to the beach and caught some rays. Later on the train ride home a woman came up to us, noticing we spoke English, and said 'Are you Americans?' Turns out she is a retired market research executive who is traveling around Europe for six months. What are the odds?!? We talked about all of our traveling experiences and a lot about marketing. Lacey and I walked home from the train station talking about the amazing conversation we'd just had and the amazing time we had in Cinque Terre. It's so nice to be able to travel with a good friend whom you can share laughs and life-long memories with.
The following week was your usual: visited a Renaissance villa, got some gelato, checked out a new art gallery, took an Italian exam. Just the usual. Don't worry, I did have a reality check when I realized I had yet to plan housing for next year or my fall schedule. Now for last weekend. After such a hectic week, there was no time to plan the trip to Paris I'd been hoping for. I eventually came to accept that Paris would have to be a trip for my next Europe visit and decided to enjoy Florence. Saturday, I finally climbed 463 steps to the top of the Duomo (the cathedral in Florence). The sea of terracotta rooftops and mountainous backdrops were breathtaking!
Sunday we got salami and bread at the market and headed up to Piazzale Michelangelo where you can see all of Florence's gems in one view: the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Vecchio, and Santa Croce.
The tulips in bloom and music of an outdoor restaurant nearby were the cherries on top. Not to mention the beautiful sunny weather (sorry to all of you Pennsylvanians stuck in 40 degree temperatures). I was glad to cross a few things off my list of things to do around Florence. Now, I am getting excited for the arrival of my parents next week and showing them the city I've fallen in love with. I'll try not to wait so long before posting again! Ciao!
Sunday, March 20, 2011
La Dolce Vita
I must apologize for not updating in a while. Do I say that a lot? Sorry!! There is just so much going on! Now where did I leave off?? Ah, yes the spontaneous trip to Barcelona. After the trip we went to a villa in Tuscany that Lacey's parents had rented for the week. I just can't say "Oh, for spring break I stayed in a villa in Tuscany," without pinching myself. It was just as idyllic as it sounds: nights spent by the cozy fireplace, bright blue shutters that sparkled like gems, exposed wood beams and terracotta tile floor that added warmth to the white walls, a spiral staircase lined with a whimsical blue iron railing. I could get used to this!
It was beautiful, but a majority of the week was spent out and about, taking in the sights of Italy. One day we went to Rome. We saw the Pantheon, Spanish steps, and the Trevi Fountain.
We also walked around and explored the city. The city is much larger than Florence, and many of the buildings are newer than those found in Florence.
Tuesday morning the Eitl's took me to the train station where I met my mother's first cousin, Angela and her family. The experience was amazing, but that description doesn't do it justice. Even though family is what inspired me to come here, I never thought in a million years that I would actually have the opportunity to meet relatives. Angela and her daughter Elena speak English very well. I got in touch with them on Facebook and they graciously invited me to stay with them for a couple days. I spent the first day seeing Viterbo, the city where Angela and her family live. The town is very old and small cobblestone streets create an intimate atmosphere.
We had an amazing lunch which included the best lasagna I've ever had (sorry, Mom!) along with pork and potatoes. For dinner, we had homemade pizza made by Angela's husband, Renzo. At night I went to a costume party with Elena and her friends. They got up to sing karaoke and insisted I join them. They wanted to do an American song so I could join in so they chose what else? The YMCA. Can't say that I'm proud of the fact that's the song that comes to mind when Italians think of American music. I think I did more laughing than singing, but had fun nonetheless. Wednesday, Elena (who is my age) and I spent the day at the spa where Angela works. It was fabulous! We took a dip in the pool heated by hot springs, sweat our brains out in a natural grotto that reaches around 100 degrees, relaxed with a full body massage, and walked through a circulation pool. Gotta love any day you can spend in a bathrobe getting pampered! That night we went to Angela's sister's house and I met their mother, who is my great aunt. She doesn't speak English, but she welcomed me with a huge smile and hug. She showed me old pictures of my grandparents. I saw a picture I had never seen before of my Poppop in his military uniform. We had another amazing meal and I wished so badly that I could've understood more of what they were saying.
On Thursday morning I returned to the Eitl's. We went to Orvieta, a cute little town up on a hill with an elaborate cathedral and view to die for. Friday Mr.Eitl braved the crazy drivers and zigzag roads to take us to the Almafi Coast. We drove through a couple of cute towns built into cliffs. Basically picture a calendar of coasts and oceans, that's where we were.
It was hard to leave the villa and come back to Florence and classes, but I mean it really wasn't that hard. This place is great, and it's our home, so it was kinda nice to be back.
This week was the 150th anniversary of the unification of Italy. Wednesday evening from 7pm to 1am museums were open for free, there were bands walking through the streets, artisans showing off beautiful ceramics and mosaics, and people packed in the narrow streets to enjoy the festivities. I enjoyed the excitement of the Italians as they waved flags and decorated their store fronts in green white and red.
Thursday evening we went with a group from school to a local pizzeria to make (and eat) our own pizzas. The dough was already made for us, but we rolled it out, added sauce, and whichever toppings we desired. I had sausage, eggplant, mushrooms, olives, spinach, and cheese. I almost dropped it moving it from the pizza oven to the plate, the pressure almost got to me! Luckily, it survived and successfully made it to my belly. We enjoyed eating our pizza along with some wine. Overall a good time.
Friday we went to Rome with our Villa and Garden class. I enjoyed seeing the villas and how much they differed from those around Florence, but was a little disappointed that we were unable to visit the Vatican and Colosseum. Hopefully I will get there before leaving Italy. The rest of the weekend was spent mostly relaxing, even though I had planned on doing some school work. I guess I will do some work today, that is, only after we go for our weekly crepes. Til next time!
We also walked around and explored the city. The city is much larger than Florence, and many of the buildings are newer than those found in Florence.
Tuesday morning the Eitl's took me to the train station where I met my mother's first cousin, Angela and her family. The experience was amazing, but that description doesn't do it justice. Even though family is what inspired me to come here, I never thought in a million years that I would actually have the opportunity to meet relatives. Angela and her daughter Elena speak English very well. I got in touch with them on Facebook and they graciously invited me to stay with them for a couple days. I spent the first day seeing Viterbo, the city where Angela and her family live. The town is very old and small cobblestone streets create an intimate atmosphere.
This is Villa Lante. The pope stayed here. The fountains and garden are absolutely beautiful. The view is also amazing.
We had an amazing lunch which included the best lasagna I've ever had (sorry, Mom!) along with pork and potatoes. For dinner, we had homemade pizza made by Angela's husband, Renzo. At night I went to a costume party with Elena and her friends. They got up to sing karaoke and insisted I join them. They wanted to do an American song so I could join in so they chose what else? The YMCA. Can't say that I'm proud of the fact that's the song that comes to mind when Italians think of American music. I think I did more laughing than singing, but had fun nonetheless. Wednesday, Elena (who is my age) and I spent the day at the spa where Angela works. It was fabulous! We took a dip in the pool heated by hot springs, sweat our brains out in a natural grotto that reaches around 100 degrees, relaxed with a full body massage, and walked through a circulation pool. Gotta love any day you can spend in a bathrobe getting pampered! That night we went to Angela's sister's house and I met their mother, who is my great aunt. She doesn't speak English, but she welcomed me with a huge smile and hug. She showed me old pictures of my grandparents. I saw a picture I had never seen before of my Poppop in his military uniform. We had another amazing meal and I wished so badly that I could've understood more of what they were saying.
On Thursday morning I returned to the Eitl's. We went to Orvieta, a cute little town up on a hill with an elaborate cathedral and view to die for. Friday Mr.Eitl braved the crazy drivers and zigzag roads to take us to the Almafi Coast. We drove through a couple of cute towns built into cliffs. Basically picture a calendar of coasts and oceans, that's where we were.
It was hard to leave the villa and come back to Florence and classes, but I mean it really wasn't that hard. This place is great, and it's our home, so it was kinda nice to be back.
This week was the 150th anniversary of the unification of Italy. Wednesday evening from 7pm to 1am museums were open for free, there were bands walking through the streets, artisans showing off beautiful ceramics and mosaics, and people packed in the narrow streets to enjoy the festivities. I enjoyed the excitement of the Italians as they waved flags and decorated their store fronts in green white and red.
Thursday evening we went with a group from school to a local pizzeria to make (and eat) our own pizzas. The dough was already made for us, but we rolled it out, added sauce, and whichever toppings we desired. I had sausage, eggplant, mushrooms, olives, spinach, and cheese. I almost dropped it moving it from the pizza oven to the plate, the pressure almost got to me! Luckily, it survived and successfully made it to my belly. We enjoyed eating our pizza along with some wine. Overall a good time.
Friday we went to Rome with our Villa and Garden class. I enjoyed seeing the villas and how much they differed from those around Florence, but was a little disappointed that we were unable to visit the Vatican and Colosseum. Hopefully I will get there before leaving Italy. The rest of the weekend was spent mostly relaxing, even though I had planned on doing some school work. I guess I will do some work today, that is, only after we go for our weekly crepes. Til next time!
Monday, March 7, 2011
Barca Baby
After completing our midterms for the week we felt relieved and excited to finally be on Spring Break. Lacey and Dillon had been talking about seeing FC Barcelona (Barcelona's soccer team) play for a while. Being busy with midterms, we had no time to plan anything until Thursday night, when we decided we should go to Barcelona for the weekend. We booked our plane tickets around 11pm Thursday night for a flight Friday at 1pm. We went to buy tickets for the soccer game, but they were sold out. So now we have tickets to Barcelona with no idea of where we were going to stay or what we were going to do when we get there. I have to say this is where I kinda freaked out. I don't know what I was thinking spending a good deal of money with no plan in mind. After calming down, I accepted the fact that Barcelona was going to be great, with or without a plan, and started packing a bag.
Upon arriving in Barcelona we started walking. We found La Ramblas, which is a main street where there are many restaurants with outdoor seating, gift shops, and crazy street performers.
We would pick random streets to turn down and wandered through the city. After a while we decided we should probably try to find a place to stay. We found a hostel that was right on the beach, it included breakfast, sheets, and internet. What more could you need? We stayed in a room with four Irish guys, who just "decided to travel the world." After checking in we went out and got a bite to eat. We stopped at a place right on the main strip with a pre-set menu: two tapas, a paella or pizza, and sangria. The food was pretty good. I enjoyed the seafood paella, a rice dish cooked with seafood.
After we went to a bar and sipped drinks upstairs overlooking a bachelorette party going on downstairs. We were beat from a long day so soon after we went back to the hostel. Saturday I had breakfast overlooking the beach and ocean. It was so peaceful. After breakfast I walked down to the water, which was cold, but not freezing. We were going to check out a walking tour, but the meeting spot was wrong on the flyer so we just walked around the city.
The beaches were practically empty except for some surfers. We were going to take a Gaudi walking tour, but it didn't work out. Instead, we went to the Picasso museum. It was amazing. The museum starts with his earliest art starting from age 15. He came from a family of artists and attended multiple art schools. After the realist paintings, there are blue period paintings, and his cubism abstract paintings. There were even some ceramic pieces Picasso did later in his life. After the museum we made our way to the stadium. We didn't have tickets, but took a chance on getting tickets at the stadium. Once there we made friends with a Kuwaiti who showed us where the ticket booth was. By the time we got there all the cheap tickets were sold out, and hell if I was spending 84 euro for a ticket! Well our Kuwati friend started bargaining with the scalpers and ended up contributing towards our tickets. My legs were shaking the whole way to my seat. I kept thinking, this ticket but couldn't be real. Sure enough I got to my seat with no problems. Unfortunately, Lace, Dill, and I got split up. The game was great, even from the nosebleeds. Barca dominated. At halftime I was thinking how or if I would be able to find Lacey and Dillon after the game, when all of a sudden I see them. Lacey came to find me because she knew I would be freaking out. So the second half was spent sipping a beer with Lace and Dill. It was a great time.
After we hung out with our Irish roommates from the hostel. They were some characters. By the time we got back to the hostel it was around 11pm. Seeing as we had to be up at 3am to head to the airport, we decided to pull an all-nighter and go out with our new Irish friends. We laughed all night and then headed to the airport in the wee hours of the morning. We took an hour long bus ride to the airport and boarded the plan exhausted. After a layover in Rome, we finally made it back to Florence, only to get on another train to Orte where Lacey's parents rented a villa for the week. The place is gorgeous!
Tomorrow I am meeting my mom's first cousin who lives in a neighboring town. I can't believe I am actually going to meet family while I'm in Italy. I am so excited! I will post again when I get back! Ciao!
This is where the bus from the airport dropped us off. Welcome to Barelona!
Streets of Barca
Upon arriving in Barcelona we started walking. We found La Ramblas, which is a main street where there are many restaurants with outdoor seating, gift shops, and crazy street performers.
Great band playing on the streets!
Seafood paella
We went up the coast, which is lined with palm trees. Gorgeous!
Playing around on the beach!
The beaches were practically empty except for some surfers. We were going to take a Gaudi walking tour, but it didn't work out. Instead, we went to the Picasso museum. It was amazing. The museum starts with his earliest art starting from age 15. He came from a family of artists and attended multiple art schools. After the realist paintings, there are blue period paintings, and his cubism abstract paintings. There were even some ceramic pieces Picasso did later in his life. After the museum we made our way to the stadium. We didn't have tickets, but took a chance on getting tickets at the stadium. Once there we made friends with a Kuwaiti who showed us where the ticket booth was. By the time we got there all the cheap tickets were sold out, and hell if I was spending 84 euro for a ticket! Well our Kuwati friend started bargaining with the scalpers and ended up contributing towards our tickets. My legs were shaking the whole way to my seat. I kept thinking, this ticket but couldn't be real. Sure enough I got to my seat with no problems. Unfortunately, Lace, Dill, and I got split up. The game was great, even from the nosebleeds. Barca dominated. At halftime I was thinking how or if I would be able to find Lacey and Dillon after the game, when all of a sudden I see them. Lacey came to find me because she knew I would be freaking out. So the second half was spent sipping a beer with Lace and Dill. It was a great time.
After we hung out with our Irish roommates from the hostel. They were some characters. By the time we got back to the hostel it was around 11pm. Seeing as we had to be up at 3am to head to the airport, we decided to pull an all-nighter and go out with our new Irish friends. We laughed all night and then headed to the airport in the wee hours of the morning. We took an hour long bus ride to the airport and boarded the plan exhausted. After a layover in Rome, we finally made it back to Florence, only to get on another train to Orte where Lacey's parents rented a villa for the week. The place is gorgeous!
Tomorrow I am meeting my mom's first cousin who lives in a neighboring town. I can't believe I am actually going to meet family while I'm in Italy. I am so excited! I will post again when I get back! Ciao!
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Vive Venezia
I have so much to talk about, and so little time! I am swamped this week with midterms, but thought I'd take a break to post so I don't forget anything! Now where did I leave off...
I tried hot wine, or vin brule, for the first time. I don't know how traditional it is, but it was surprisingly really good, especially since it was getting chilly. After grabbing hot wine at the street vendor, Lacey, Meaghan, Jackie, and I hopped on a gondola.
Oh. My. Gosh. As I sipped my wine I looked out into the distance as the sun was setting and a slight breeze ran through my hair. I felt like I was in a dream, or a movie, it was so unreal!
I tried to speak to our guide, Franco, in Italian and he responded "Ya know, we do speak English here." I laughed and still attempted to speak in Italian. We asked him if he would sing, but he said that was our job. Since I left all my gondola songs at home, I just smiled and enjoyed the silence after listening to music, screaming kids, and languages I couldn't understand all day. One thing I found odd about Carnivale were the numerous Native American bands playing flutes on the streets. What are Native Americans doing in Venice? Eh, this puzzling question didn't stop me from dancing and enjoying. We got dinner at a small trattoria that seemed reasonably priced. I ordered a glass of red house wine for dinner, but the waitress said they only had half bottles, 375. I said well 3,75 isn't bad and I'll probably drink a half a bottle anyway. Little did I know the half bottle actually cost 9 euro and when she said 375 she meant it was 375 mL. I almost had a heart attack considering that practically doubled my meal, but I just had to throw my hands up and say live and learn. We were pretty exhausted even after eating so after walking around a little more we sat on the waterfront and waited til we had to leave. I slept like a baby on the bus ride home.
Sunday was spent being lazy, Skyping and studying for my midterm. While Skyping I discovered all kinds of goofy accessories that I have to share with all of my readers...
Lacey's boyfriend, Dillon, arrived on Sunday as well. I am good friends with Dillon back home, so it was great to see him and catch up on what was going on at home. I bet it was even more great for Lacey, though haha. This week has pretty much sucked with midterms, but I am trying not to get too stressed. Only one day and two midterms away from spring break!! I'll post again before leaving for the villa where I am staying with Lacey and her parents. Yea, I know, I am living the dream.
Most of last week was spent reviewing for midterms which are this week. Started off Monday with a 9am wine tasting with my History and Culture of Italian Food class. Don't be fooled though, there was a lot of lecturing and not much drinking, which I guess is for the better at 9 o'clock in the morning. We walked from school to a bar that opened just to host our class. Our teacher, Peter Fischer, who we like to call Grande Pesce (Big Fish), explained how to classify wine using year, vineyard, grape, and producer. He also explained the proper process of actually tasting by first examining the color and color intensity, then "swirl" the wine to measure viscosity, then smell, and lastly taste. We also tried a technique of slurping after taking a sip: the air is supposed to make the flavor more intense, but I couldn't keep a straight face long enough to really try it. Tuesday we visited two contemporary art exhibits with my Business of Art class. I really enjoyed both exhibits. One gallery was a single room that featured a life-size gorilla made from pink chewing gum, it was definitely contemporary art! On Wednesday, we had a gelato tasting in History of Food class, which was of course amazing. Now I don't want to give you the wrong impression, I actually do have to do work while I'm here. For example, I have a term paper for the History of Food due the week after Spring Break and a midterm tomorrow, so it's not all wine and gelato (unfortunately!). Friday the roomies and I went shopping for masks for Carnivale.
Saturday we woke up early for a three hour bus ride to Carnivale in Venice. I don't even know where to begin describing Venice. Beautiful, colorful, picturesque, and that's just the city. Carnivale? Colorful, CROWDED, whimsical, fun, did I mention crowded?
There were tons of beautiful masks for sale.
SO CROWDED!!
We walked around the narrow streets all day occasionally crossing a bridge where I took at least four pictures.
Most people had masks (including yours truly) but some were dressed from head to toe in elaborate colorful costumes.
I tried hot wine, or vin brule, for the first time. I don't know how traditional it is, but it was surprisingly really good, especially since it was getting chilly. After grabbing hot wine at the street vendor, Lacey, Meaghan, Jackie, and I hopped on a gondola.
Pretty funny huh? I entertained myself for a while with this haha.
Lacey's boyfriend, Dillon, arrived on Sunday as well. I am good friends with Dillon back home, so it was great to see him and catch up on what was going on at home. I bet it was even more great for Lacey, though haha. This week has pretty much sucked with midterms, but I am trying not to get too stressed. Only one day and two midterms away from spring break!! I'll post again before leaving for the villa where I am staying with Lacey and her parents. Yea, I know, I am living the dream.
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