Our last day in Italy, cant believe it...today, we day tripped from the hill town of Orvieto, where we are staying for 2 nights, to Civita. Civita is indescribeable, but I will do my best. It is a medieval/etruscian/really ancient town built on a hilltop. There is one way in and out of town, just a footbridge (used to be a donkey path, but that eroded away over time). Civita is essentially an island on a hill. With clouds surrounding it, it looks like it is floating in the sky. Here is a link http://www.civitadibagnoregio.it/english/index.htm (cut and paste it into your browser) We actually had lunch at the restaurant owned by the guy who maintains the website.
Now we are back in Orvieto. We just got gelato (again) and are reminiscing about our amazing adventure. We have seen so many amazing places and, most importantly, learned so much about each other and grown stronger together.
Tomorrow we begin our long (approx 24 hour) journey home. Bus to train to train to plane to plane to car...
Ciao for now,
J and J
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Under The Tuscan Sun
Yesterday, (after 3 trains and a bus ride) we finally arrived in the beautiful Tuscan hill town of Cortona. This is the town made famous by the book and movie Under the Tuscan Sun. It really is unbelievable here. The moment we both got off the bus, huge smiles came across our tired faces as the views from atop the hill of the Tuscan countryside were indescribably beautiful. We then walked down the main street from our bus stop about 50 yards to find the entrance to our hotel. The hotel owner, Mossimo, was waiting for us to show us to our room. It is a big, spacious room in a medieval building complete with a canopy bed and nice decor throughout. Mossimo gave us a 10 minute town orientation and guided us in the direction of the sights we might want to see. So we headed out to see what the town had to offer. Two doors down from the hotel, we got sidetracked by a gelato store...wait a minute...not just any gelato stand, but the best gelato we have had on this trip. So far, Josh has had gelato there twice yesterday and twice today (and hes not done yet!!!!). Jen is a bit behind Josh, but is going strong with 2 gelato servings and a huge merangue cookie (and still also not done yet!!). WE LOVE IT HERE!!!!!!!!! SOOOOO MUCH!!!!
After that wonderful start, we explored the city with tiny, hilly, winding streets and amazing views everywhere we looked. We settled on a place for dinner (someplace Rick recommended of course), and had one of the best meals of our trip so far. The food here is so fresh and everything is homemade. We shared a plate of mouthwatering gnocci that was heaven sent, followed by salad and steak that was also delicious. What a fantastic afternoon and evening after all of our traveling.
Today, we had a lazy morning of sleeping in, breakfast in a local cafe and more wandering the streets. We also bought a piece of art we really like (a painting of the town center of Cortona) to someday (hopefully soon) decorate our house with. We then went for a long walk around the outside of the city walls and passed by Frances Mayes house, Bramasole (the actual one from the book). On the way back into town, our walk was interrupted by a sudden thunderstorm. We were in the middle of a winding mountain road, so we had no choice but to duck into the forest to find some shelter. We huddled together under some trees for about a half hour watching the rain fall all around us (and getting pretty cold too) before the sun finally broke through and we made it home. We will be very sad to leave (heavenly, slow paced) Cortona tomorrow, but were also looking forward to seeing more of Tuscany.
Now, as for our last day in Sorrento (2 days ago) we woke up early and headed for the ancient ruins of Pompei. We arrived just as it was opening and there was no line, so we headed right in. Using a Rick Steves audioguide(downloaded to our ipods) to show us around, we saw so many amazing sights. We saw homes, baths, mosaics, frescoes, town center, pillars, people entombed in plaster, a gladiator arena, and even a brothel (complete with stone beds and frescoes on the stone portraying scenes of services offered!!). All of this preserved by the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 AD. The afternoon was spent relaxing at our hotel and swimming in the pool before we headed into the town center for dinner.
We cant believe this adventure is almost over. We are so sad to see it come to an end, but also are very excited to return home and, of course, see all of you.
Ciao for now,
J and J
After that wonderful start, we explored the city with tiny, hilly, winding streets and amazing views everywhere we looked. We settled on a place for dinner (someplace Rick recommended of course), and had one of the best meals of our trip so far. The food here is so fresh and everything is homemade. We shared a plate of mouthwatering gnocci that was heaven sent, followed by salad and steak that was also delicious. What a fantastic afternoon and evening after all of our traveling.
Today, we had a lazy morning of sleeping in, breakfast in a local cafe and more wandering the streets. We also bought a piece of art we really like (a painting of the town center of Cortona) to someday (hopefully soon) decorate our house with. We then went for a long walk around the outside of the city walls and passed by Frances Mayes house, Bramasole (the actual one from the book). On the way back into town, our walk was interrupted by a sudden thunderstorm. We were in the middle of a winding mountain road, so we had no choice but to duck into the forest to find some shelter. We huddled together under some trees for about a half hour watching the rain fall all around us (and getting pretty cold too) before the sun finally broke through and we made it home. We will be very sad to leave (heavenly, slow paced) Cortona tomorrow, but were also looking forward to seeing more of Tuscany.
Now, as for our last day in Sorrento (2 days ago) we woke up early and headed for the ancient ruins of Pompei. We arrived just as it was opening and there was no line, so we headed right in. Using a Rick Steves audioguide(downloaded to our ipods) to show us around, we saw so many amazing sights. We saw homes, baths, mosaics, frescoes, town center, pillars, people entombed in plaster, a gladiator arena, and even a brothel (complete with stone beds and frescoes on the stone portraying scenes of services offered!!). All of this preserved by the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 AD. The afternoon was spent relaxing at our hotel and swimming in the pool before we headed into the town center for dinner.
We cant believe this adventure is almost over. We are so sad to see it come to an end, but also are very excited to return home and, of course, see all of you.
Ciao for now,
J and J
Thursday, July 22, 2010
The three of us are having a great time on the honeymoon!
Often it feels like there are 3 of us on this trip. Even before we boarded the airplane, Josh was spending a lot of time with Rick. In planning our honeymoon, Josh seemed to care more about what Rick thought/advised than what I thought or even his parents (who are travel agents!) thought. We have been abroad for a little over a month and even still Josh cannot spent a single day without Rick. Here is a typical scenario:
Jen: What should we do today?
Josh: Let me see what Rick thinks.
Jen: Where do you want to get gelato?
Josh: Lets go to Ricks favorite gelato place.
Jen: What time does our train leave.
Josh: Hold on a minute, let me see what Rick says.
Sometimes at night when I am tired and want to go to bed, Josh tells me he is not ready for bed yet because he wants to spend even more quality time with Rick. I mean, come on, this is our honeymoon!!
And the craziest thing is, I have seen this all over, in Venice, Florence, Siena, Milan, Paris...everyone consulting Rick Steves. http://www.ricksteves.com/
As I look back over the past month, I am grateful Rick has been with us. His excellent travel advice (from where to stay, where to eat, to which museums are most worthwhile) has only made our experience even memorable! The next time you visit Europe, bring Rick, you will be so glad you did.
p.s. this is not a paid advertisement!
Jen: What should we do today?
Josh: Let me see what Rick thinks.
Jen: Where do you want to get gelato?
Josh: Lets go to Ricks favorite gelato place.
Jen: What time does our train leave.
Josh: Hold on a minute, let me see what Rick says.
Sometimes at night when I am tired and want to go to bed, Josh tells me he is not ready for bed yet because he wants to spend even more quality time with Rick. I mean, come on, this is our honeymoon!!
And the craziest thing is, I have seen this all over, in Venice, Florence, Siena, Milan, Paris...everyone consulting Rick Steves. http://www.ricksteves.com/
As I look back over the past month, I am grateful Rick has been with us. His excellent travel advice (from where to stay, where to eat, to which museums are most worthwhile) has only made our experience even memorable! The next time you visit Europe, bring Rick, you will be so glad you did.
p.s. this is not a paid advertisement!
sorrento
After a long day of travel (over an hour with which had no air conditioning) we arrived in Sorrento yesterday afternoon. We were so excited upon seeing that our hotel has a huge pool. After throwing down our backpacks in our room we immediately got out of our sweaty clothes, put on our swim suits and headed to the pool to cool off (ahhh.) Refreshed, we then took a nice walk to the center of Sorrento and found a tasty restaurant to enjoy dinner. Downtown Sorrento is full of tourists, restaurants, shops, and piazzas. It is also a coastal town so the view of sorrento and from sorrento is beautiful (like cinque terre the city is built on a seaside cliff.) During dinner our restuarant was serenaded by a musical quartet (joshs term.)
This morning we took a super fun (jens term) and tasty cooking class. We assisted in making fried mini pizzas, home made ravioli stuffed with 3 kinds of cheese, so called crazy water fish, and tiramisu for dessert. Jens favorite part of the cooking class was sneaking bites of the tiramisu while preparing it. Joshs favorite parts were sprinkling cheese on the pizza and finishing jens wine. We have had some great food but making it ourselves turned this 4 course meal into one of the most enjoyable we have had so far. Cooking in a nice kitchen with A/C was also a nice change from roaming around in the heat sightseeing.
Tomorrow we will be getting up early and heading to Pompeii...We will tell you more about that soon....
p.s. Cant believe we will be home in a week!
This morning we took a super fun (jens term) and tasty cooking class. We assisted in making fried mini pizzas, home made ravioli stuffed with 3 kinds of cheese, so called crazy water fish, and tiramisu for dessert. Jens favorite part of the cooking class was sneaking bites of the tiramisu while preparing it. Joshs favorite parts were sprinkling cheese on the pizza and finishing jens wine. We have had some great food but making it ourselves turned this 4 course meal into one of the most enjoyable we have had so far. Cooking in a nice kitchen with A/C was also a nice change from roaming around in the heat sightseeing.
Tomorrow we will be getting up early and heading to Pompeii...We will tell you more about that soon....
p.s. Cant believe we will be home in a week!
Roma Romama (Lady Gagas tribute to Rome)
So, we finished our stay in Rome with a busy 2 days. First, we decided to do a little Jewish Heritage trip and we went the Jewish Ghetto and the biggest temple in Rome. The temple only dates back about 100 years, but its very interesting because everything in the temple (the torahs, the artwork, etc) is from the time of the ghetto (roughly 1400-1900). In the old ghetto, the pope decreed that the Jews were only going to be allowed one building for a temple, so the Jews being resourceful, put five temples in the one building for the different strains of Judaism (sephardic, roman, etc). The temple itself was quite interesting because it looks like a church. It was designed by Romans and Christians as a sort of apology for the years of the ghetto, but no Jews were involved in the design. So it seems like a church building decorated in a Jewish style.
On our last day in Rome, we went to a couple of museums. The first was the national museum of Rome, which was interesting, but unexciting. We did not have much information on the museum and there was not much English inside to guide us around. Basically, it was a whole bunch of old Roman art and sculpture dating back about 2000 years. Next, we went to the Borghese Gallery. This may have been our favorite museum of the whole trip. There was a great audio guide to take us through the museum. The museum was the Villa of the Cardinal Borghese in the 17th century. He was the popes nephew and, as such, was able to attain whatever artwork he wanted. Needless to say, its an incredible collection. The Bernini sculpures (how did he carve delicate leaves from stone?) were definitely the highlight. The villa itself was beautiful and is set in the middle of a huge garden (like Central Park), which only makes it better. It was a great way to spend our last day in Rome.
Some of the other things we loved about Rome were the night markets and the piazzas (we would constantly pass and run into.) As you roam around Rome (hahaha), there are numerous piazzas, each filled with street performers, artists, touristy shops, cafes, gelato, etc. We would make our way at night from one to another just taking in the scene (def some of the best people watching of the trip!!).
Finally, we just want you all to know that Jen has a new favorite restaurant in the entire world. If youve been keeping up with our blog, then you know about Miscellanea ( of the famous free strawberry wine)...well, we ended up eating there 4 days in a row...the food and prices were great and the staff was very friendly. After the second day, they basically knew what we would order. Finding great restaurants that you love and get to know (esp while abroad) is so fun. You arrive at the restaurant and it feels so homey.
Yesterday we left for Sorrento ( a long day of travel).
We miss you all and will see you soon,
J and J
On our last day in Rome, we went to a couple of museums. The first was the national museum of Rome, which was interesting, but unexciting. We did not have much information on the museum and there was not much English inside to guide us around. Basically, it was a whole bunch of old Roman art and sculpture dating back about 2000 years. Next, we went to the Borghese Gallery. This may have been our favorite museum of the whole trip. There was a great audio guide to take us through the museum. The museum was the Villa of the Cardinal Borghese in the 17th century. He was the popes nephew and, as such, was able to attain whatever artwork he wanted. Needless to say, its an incredible collection. The Bernini sculpures (how did he carve delicate leaves from stone?) were definitely the highlight. The villa itself was beautiful and is set in the middle of a huge garden (like Central Park), which only makes it better. It was a great way to spend our last day in Rome.
Some of the other things we loved about Rome were the night markets and the piazzas (we would constantly pass and run into.) As you roam around Rome (hahaha), there are numerous piazzas, each filled with street performers, artists, touristy shops, cafes, gelato, etc. We would make our way at night from one to another just taking in the scene (def some of the best people watching of the trip!!).
Finally, we just want you all to know that Jen has a new favorite restaurant in the entire world. If youve been keeping up with our blog, then you know about Miscellanea ( of the famous free strawberry wine)...well, we ended up eating there 4 days in a row...the food and prices were great and the staff was very friendly. After the second day, they basically knew what we would order. Finding great restaurants that you love and get to know (esp while abroad) is so fun. You arrive at the restaurant and it feels so homey.
Yesterday we left for Sorrento ( a long day of travel).
We miss you all and will see you soon,
J and J
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Roma!
Hello from Rome! On Friday we left the small coastal town of Vernazza and took a 4 hour train ride south to Rome. After finding our hotel (the most comfy of our trip so far; hooray for air conditioning, a shower separate from the toilet, TV, a phone, and even a balcony) we took a shuttle to central Rome to begin our adventure. We were starving and luckily found an excellent little pizza place. For 5 euros each we ordered huge pizzas and scarfed them down. Refueled, we took an evening stroll through Rome passing such well known places as the Spanish steps, Trevi fountain, and the first Mcdonalds in Italy, est in 1986 and nicer than most restaurants we have splurged at. Seriously, the McDonalds in Italy have been super nice (even have computerized ordering systems.) Oh yeah...and a little place called the Colloseum!!
Yesterday (Sat) was our first full day in Rome and we began with a guided tour of Vatican City. We learned that the pope must be a smart guy (to leave Rome during the 100 degree temps of July.) Vatican City is one of the most visited locales in the world. There were probably more tourists there than gelato shops in Italy, which really is saying a lot. After the audio tour of the Vatican Museum we stepped into Michaelangos Sistine Chapel, one of the most amazing artistic sites we have ever seen. It is unbelievable that Michaelango painted the entire ceiling of the Sistine Chapel and he didnt even consider himself a painter! The figures of the sistine chapel seem 3d, like they are literally falling from the ceiling, incredible!! After the sistine chapel, we entered St Peters Basilica, which many consider the most impressive church on earth! It was equally gigantic and beautiful.
This morning, we woke up early to beat the heat (as best we could) and visited the colosseum, roman forum, and the pantheon. The colosseum is as amazing in structure and fascinating as jen had hoped. The events that took place in the colosseum (gladiator fights, etc) are pretty disturbing, but our audio tour helped put this past into some context. Standing in front and inside of the colosseum was one of those huge WOW, I CANT BELIEVE I AM REALLY HERE moments...love those!!
We finished our morning of touring at our new favorite restaurant, Miscellanea (we were there last night for dinner and today for lunch.) We love Miscellanea for a few reasons. They have tasty food at affordable prices, generous salads, pasta and sandwiches for 4 to 7 euros and if you have the rick steves book (which is our travel bible) you get FREE STRAWBERRY WINE....JENS NEW FAVORITE DRINK (sorry coffee!).
Now, we are hot and tired after a long day of sightseeing in the hot sun (about 100 degrees), so we are gonna go back to the AC and take a nap.
Ciao for now,
Jen and Josh
Yesterday (Sat) was our first full day in Rome and we began with a guided tour of Vatican City. We learned that the pope must be a smart guy (to leave Rome during the 100 degree temps of July.) Vatican City is one of the most visited locales in the world. There were probably more tourists there than gelato shops in Italy, which really is saying a lot. After the audio tour of the Vatican Museum we stepped into Michaelangos Sistine Chapel, one of the most amazing artistic sites we have ever seen. It is unbelievable that Michaelango painted the entire ceiling of the Sistine Chapel and he didnt even consider himself a painter! The figures of the sistine chapel seem 3d, like they are literally falling from the ceiling, incredible!! After the sistine chapel, we entered St Peters Basilica, which many consider the most impressive church on earth! It was equally gigantic and beautiful.
This morning, we woke up early to beat the heat (as best we could) and visited the colosseum, roman forum, and the pantheon. The colosseum is as amazing in structure and fascinating as jen had hoped. The events that took place in the colosseum (gladiator fights, etc) are pretty disturbing, but our audio tour helped put this past into some context. Standing in front and inside of the colosseum was one of those huge WOW, I CANT BELIEVE I AM REALLY HERE moments...love those!!
We finished our morning of touring at our new favorite restaurant, Miscellanea (we were there last night for dinner and today for lunch.) We love Miscellanea for a few reasons. They have tasty food at affordable prices, generous salads, pasta and sandwiches for 4 to 7 euros and if you have the rick steves book (which is our travel bible) you get FREE STRAWBERRY WINE....JENS NEW FAVORITE DRINK (sorry coffee!).
Now, we are hot and tired after a long day of sightseeing in the hot sun (about 100 degrees), so we are gonna go back to the AC and take a nap.
Ciao for now,
Jen and Josh
Friday, July 16, 2010
what a night!!
Last night, we went to the most amazing dinner here in Cinque Terre. We sat high above the town in a restaurant in an old castle with a view of both the ocean at sunset and the town of Vernazza (where we have been staying). To start, we had homemade pasta with pesto sauce ( the pesto sauce here is amazing...its the birthplace of pesto and we can promise youve never tasted anything like it at home). Then for the main course, we had the seafood feast. Clams, mussels, crawfish, other fish, unidentifiable seafood. Upon its arrival in a big pan that is was cooked in, Jen began to say 'oh no, oh no' because some of the animals still had faces and legs etc. However, she braved it and ate every last drop. It was sooooooooo delicious and wonderful. We feel so lucky to be having so many amazing experiences.
The last couple of days here have been great. Upon arrival, we were hot and tired, so we headed down to the ocean for a little swim. The next morning, we woke up early and took the long, narrow, hilly, beautiful hike through all five towns. I just cant describe in words how great it really was. We started in Monterosso and hiked the first leg in about 90 minutes which got us back to Vernazza where we took a short break in our room for an early lunch. We then headed out on the rest of the hike (which took about 3 more hours) before ending in RioMaggiore and having lunch at a little restaurant called Bar Centrale (the first place Josh ever had a cappucino 11 years ago on his backpacking trip across Europe). After the hike, we took another swim to cool off. Yesterday, we did part of the hike again just for fun and went to a big street market in Monterosso. Then, you guessed it, another swim in the ocean before relaxing a bit before our big meal. Today, we head for Rome. It should be great....and hot!!!
The last couple of days here have been great. Upon arrival, we were hot and tired, so we headed down to the ocean for a little swim. The next morning, we woke up early and took the long, narrow, hilly, beautiful hike through all five towns. I just cant describe in words how great it really was. We started in Monterosso and hiked the first leg in about 90 minutes which got us back to Vernazza where we took a short break in our room for an early lunch. We then headed out on the rest of the hike (which took about 3 more hours) before ending in RioMaggiore and having lunch at a little restaurant called Bar Centrale (the first place Josh ever had a cappucino 11 years ago on his backpacking trip across Europe). After the hike, we took another swim to cool off. Yesterday, we did part of the hike again just for fun and went to a big street market in Monterosso. Then, you guessed it, another swim in the ocean before relaxing a bit before our big meal. Today, we head for Rome. It should be great....and hot!!!
Monday, July 12, 2010
the hangover
Paris was amazing...after we left, we headed for Florence. Both of us found ourselves wandering through the streets of Florence wondering why we were in such a daze. Then it hit us...we had the Paris hangover!!! No matter where we went next, it just wasnt Paris. After an evening in the doldrums in Florence, we decided to shake things up a bit. We splurged and bought a half day walking tour. It was a great purchase. We had a great guide and we learned all about the history and art of Florence as we slowly began to appreciate where we were and what we were seeing: the medieval architecture changing to renaissance, the meaning of the artwork and how the renaissance masters really brought us into the world of 3D and reality, the beauty of the Duomo and how it came to be after 200 years in the making, the influence and story of the Medici family and how they really (almost singlehandedly) ushered in the renaissance style.
Then, we went shopping...all afternoon...and the next morning...and a bit more the next afternoon (dont worry we did stop multiple times for gelato at our new favorite place Gelato Grom...hello chocolate, chocolate chip!.) Also, we saw Michelangelos David (truly even more incredible in person than can be portrayed in books) and toured the Uffizi Gallery (the worlds largest collection of renaissance art).
After 3 days in Florence, we felt satisfied and decided to head for the hills. We changed our itinerary slightly (arent we crazy and spontaneous!) and headed for Siena, which is where we are now. We have enjoyed a relaxing day here (its a bit cooler than Florence, thank god) and went out to a nice dinner, spent time hanging out in the huge piazza (Il Campo) and enjoyed our wine tasting from the honeymoon registry (thanks Marcelle!!). We then enjoyed a leisurely stroll around town and some gelato (surprise surprise). Tomorrow, we head off for Cinque Terre where we hope to enjoy a few nice hikes, relaxing on the beach, and a romantic dinner for two (thanks to Alicia and Seth!!). We hope everyone at home is doing well and we do miss you all and look forward to seeing you soon.
Ciao for now.
J and J
Then, we went shopping...all afternoon...and the next morning...and a bit more the next afternoon (dont worry we did stop multiple times for gelato at our new favorite place Gelato Grom...hello chocolate, chocolate chip!.) Also, we saw Michelangelos David (truly even more incredible in person than can be portrayed in books) and toured the Uffizi Gallery (the worlds largest collection of renaissance art).
After 3 days in Florence, we felt satisfied and decided to head for the hills. We changed our itinerary slightly (arent we crazy and spontaneous!) and headed for Siena, which is where we are now. We have enjoyed a relaxing day here (its a bit cooler than Florence, thank god) and went out to a nice dinner, spent time hanging out in the huge piazza (Il Campo) and enjoyed our wine tasting from the honeymoon registry (thanks Marcelle!!). We then enjoyed a leisurely stroll around town and some gelato (surprise surprise). Tomorrow, we head off for Cinque Terre where we hope to enjoy a few nice hikes, relaxing on the beach, and a romantic dinner for two (thanks to Alicia and Seth!!). We hope everyone at home is doing well and we do miss you all and look forward to seeing you soon.
Ciao for now.
J and J
Friday, July 9, 2010
hello florence!
We were sad to leave Paris this morning but had a great trip back to Italy (feels like we are back home.) After our 1 hour flight, we took the train from Milan (where we landed) to Florence. We sat in the first class section of the train and thoroughly enjoyed the amenities. Jen took advantage of the free wine service on the train as josh munched on the free snacks. The train ride went by really quickly as we both enjoyed chatting with a family who lives in Oak Park(near Calabasas) and knows many common places and people as Josh. So, was our fun experience on the train because of the free food and drinks? the comfy seats in first class? or the ability to talk with other people (not each other) for 2 whole hours? Anyway, we are off to explore Florence and get some yummy gelato (gelato, we have missed you...we promise we werent cheating on you with crepes.)
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Paris...cont
Hello everyone,
Here we are on our last evening in Paris. We have had an amazing, unbelievable, great, wonderful time here. We are desperately hoping to return someday!! Our first couple of days here were spent lazily wandering about the city, eating in Parisian cafes, eating in Parisian creperies, eating in Parisian pattiseries, eating in Parisian supermarkets (you get the idea!!). Our first evening, our wandering took us through the Cathedral of Notre Dame (no hunchback sighting), but we did get to see a service taking place. It is just soooo huge and sooo beautiful. We then continued our walk until we got to the Eiffel Tower (Jen's favorite spot in all of Paris), where we arrived just in time to enjoy a sunset and see the Tower light up in the night. What a great night!!
Our second day, we slept in and headed for the Opera Garnier (which is where Phantom of the Opera is based on). We took a very informative and in depth tour which included sitting in the seats where we could look up and see the famous chandalier and Chagall painted ceiling. The foyer seems to send you right back into the 19th century (reminds me of the grand staircase of the Titanic). We then enjoyed a relaxing evening at a wonderful restaurant near our hotel. Josh ate duck and Jen was sad that Josh ate duck (because ducks are cute!!). Our third day, we woke up early to beat the crowds to the top of the Eiffel Tower. It was a good decision. We went right up to the top with minimal waiting and let me tell you, it was worth getting up early for. The views of Paris were indescribable. Just breathtaking. We then walked (we've probably been averaging about 10 miles a day in Paris) slowly back to our hotel with stops along the way at the Arc de Triomphe, Rodin Museum, Luxembourg Gardens, Rue Mouffetard and the Latin Quarter, and the Bastille.
Yesterday, we woke up early again (don't worry, we've been taking catnaps in the afternoon...just like the guys at the Levine home do), to go to Versailles. Again, we beat the crowds and did not have to wait in line at all. We went through the palace at a leisurely pace and it really was not that crowded. We then took a walk around the gardens in back with it's mile long grand canal and world famous fountains to the Domain of Marie Antionette (that's the palaces the royalty built in their backyard to escape from the craziness of Versailles...which was built to escape the craziness of Paris!!). We ate lunch at an amazing creperie in Versailles. Jen had a ratatouille, chicken, and egg crepe, while Josh chose the hamburger, lettuce and onion variety. YUMMY!!! The afternoon was spend sleeping before an evening visit to the Louvre to see our friend Lisa (not Barroll...Mona).
Today was our museum blitz day. We began at the impressionist to post impressionist Orangerie Museum featuring Monet's Water Lilies as well as works by many of the great painters of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. We then headed to the Musee de Orsay to bask in the glow of more impressionistic art before finally heading to St. Chapelle and its world famous stained glass windows (most of which is still original 13th century). Finally, we stopped for some delicious french ice cream on Ile St. Louis and tonight, we'll be packing a picnic and heading to the Eiffel Tower one last time. Tomorrow, bring on Florence!!!
Au Revoir!!!
Here we are on our last evening in Paris. We have had an amazing, unbelievable, great, wonderful time here. We are desperately hoping to return someday!! Our first couple of days here were spent lazily wandering about the city, eating in Parisian cafes, eating in Parisian creperies, eating in Parisian pattiseries, eating in Parisian supermarkets (you get the idea!!). Our first evening, our wandering took us through the Cathedral of Notre Dame (no hunchback sighting), but we did get to see a service taking place. It is just soooo huge and sooo beautiful. We then continued our walk until we got to the Eiffel Tower (Jen's favorite spot in all of Paris), where we arrived just in time to enjoy a sunset and see the Tower light up in the night. What a great night!!
Our second day, we slept in and headed for the Opera Garnier (which is where Phantom of the Opera is based on). We took a very informative and in depth tour which included sitting in the seats where we could look up and see the famous chandalier and Chagall painted ceiling. The foyer seems to send you right back into the 19th century (reminds me of the grand staircase of the Titanic). We then enjoyed a relaxing evening at a wonderful restaurant near our hotel. Josh ate duck and Jen was sad that Josh ate duck (because ducks are cute!!). Our third day, we woke up early to beat the crowds to the top of the Eiffel Tower. It was a good decision. We went right up to the top with minimal waiting and let me tell you, it was worth getting up early for. The views of Paris were indescribable. Just breathtaking. We then walked (we've probably been averaging about 10 miles a day in Paris) slowly back to our hotel with stops along the way at the Arc de Triomphe, Rodin Museum, Luxembourg Gardens, Rue Mouffetard and the Latin Quarter, and the Bastille.
Yesterday, we woke up early again (don't worry, we've been taking catnaps in the afternoon...just like the guys at the Levine home do), to go to Versailles. Again, we beat the crowds and did not have to wait in line at all. We went through the palace at a leisurely pace and it really was not that crowded. We then took a walk around the gardens in back with it's mile long grand canal and world famous fountains to the Domain of Marie Antionette (that's the palaces the royalty built in their backyard to escape from the craziness of Versailles...which was built to escape the craziness of Paris!!). We ate lunch at an amazing creperie in Versailles. Jen had a ratatouille, chicken, and egg crepe, while Josh chose the hamburger, lettuce and onion variety. YUMMY!!! The afternoon was spend sleeping before an evening visit to the Louvre to see our friend Lisa (not Barroll...Mona).
Today was our museum blitz day. We began at the impressionist to post impressionist Orangerie Museum featuring Monet's Water Lilies as well as works by many of the great painters of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. We then headed to the Musee de Orsay to bask in the glow of more impressionistic art before finally heading to St. Chapelle and its world famous stained glass windows (most of which is still original 13th century). Finally, we stopped for some delicious french ice cream on Ile St. Louis and tonight, we'll be packing a picnic and heading to the Eiffel Tower one last time. Tomorrow, bring on Florence!!!
Au Revoir!!!
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
bonjour!
BONJOUR!!! not bongiourno because we are in Paris!!! before we left for our honeymoon josh told me he was planning a surprise. i had no idea what the surprise would be as josh wouldnt give me any clues. but the surprise is 5 nights in paris. we arrived via a short plane ride on sunday and been having an incredible time since. paris is a magical place and there is just SO MUCH to do and see here. some of my favorite paris experiences over the past few days have been: the eiffel tower (going up to the very top this morning, seeing the tower at night all lit up), lounging at sidewalk cafes drinking cafe au laits and people watching, taking long walks and almost getting lost, resting our feet and minds at luxemberg gardens and of course alternating bites with josh of fresh warm nutella and banana crepes at least once a day!!! what a wonderful surprise!
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Hello from Milan
Hey all, this'll be a quick one, we're on 15 minutes of free internet at our hotel. We got to Milan two days ago and checked into our hotel (very nice) near the train station. We immediately headed out to see Da Vinci's Last Supper. It really was incredible. There is a huge door cut out of the painting, so Jesus's feet are missing because some idiots in the 16th century decided they needed a door right there!!! Yesterday, we took a day trip to Lake Como(home of George Clooney...but we didn't run into him). It was a very refreshing, relaxing day and it was nice to get out of the heat, hustle and bustle of Milan. Also, Josh had the best gelato he's had yet (sooo yummy). Last night, we went to see the Opera at La Scala. We saw Gounod's Faust. It was amazing. Josh loved leaning over the railing awkwardly from the top row of seats just to see the stage, while Jen loved napping during the show in the lobby with ushers!!! Today, we went to the Duomo, and La Scala museum...and Jen had her best meal of the trip yet at this great little hole in the wall place run by a super nice older Italian gentleman (we have a pic with Jen). Gotta go...we're outta time.
Ciao for now,
Josh and Jen
Ciao for now,
Josh and Jen
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
A short story
Well, our hotel in Verona has free internet, so here is another post. Yesterday, we went for another great hike in the Alpe de Siusi of the Dolomite mountain range in the north of Italy. We focused on the meadows, flowers, and also getting a closer look at the mountain peaks. We stopped again for appelstrudel and coffee at a mountain hut, saw cows and horses, and even got to take a ski lift. Last night, we bought a picnic dinner at the market and relaxed in our room (in our little kitchen nook with a view of the mountains)...and did laundry the old fashioned way, in the bathtub hang drying everything on the balcony!!!
Today, we left early in the morning for Bolzano...now for an intersting side story. We didn't want to worry anyone at home, so we hadn't said anything, but upon our check in at the hotel in Castelrotto, we discovered that Jen's money belt with all of our US money and her passport were missing!!! We promptly freaked out, argued, got frustrated, etc. We also figured out what happened. Basically, Jen felt the money belt was uncomfortable/unflattering so she didn't want to wear it anymore. Josh warned her that the whole point of having the money belt was to keep on your body at all times so you can't lose anything even if it's uncomfortable/unflattering. Jen did not heed his advice and decided to put it in the backpack as she was wearing a dress that day and could not get to the money belt without a very awkward dance to shake it down to her ankles. Sometime between this moment and hotel check in, the money belt disappeared!!! Guess what? Our hotel checked with the bus company and the money belt was turned in. We picked it up this morning and not only did it have Jen's passport, credit card, etc., but also all of the cash!! WOW WOW WOW!!! We could not believe our good fortune...and now Jen wears her money belt all the time.
Moral of the story. Always listen to Josh.
We have spent a few hours in Verona today and it'really nice. Unfortunately, we were not able to go to the opera festival, but we were able to go to a jazz concert in a 2000 year old Roman amphitheater instead. We took a walking tour and had a scrumtious Italian dinner with gelato for dessert...of course. Now, we are going to bed. Good nite from Verona!!
Ciao
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Venice to Kastelruth
bongiorno! we have been busy since our last post. we finished our cruise on saturday. the cruise was great. some of our favorite parts about the cruise were the amazing new and HUGE ship - the norwegian gem. the ship holds 2000 passengers and 1000 crew. to give you an idea of the size of the ship, it is only 3 laps around the 7th floor deck to make a mile. during our 2 days at sea, we especially enjoyed relaxing outside on the back of the ship, watching the ocean, reading and chatting, within a few feet of the soft serve ice cream and coffee stations. my favorite port was mykonos, greece which looked like a post card of beautiful white greek buildings and shore line.
after our cruise we went to venice, my FAVORITE city!!! i could not get over the "bride of the sea" as it is sometimes called. how did they build the city on the water? it is unbelievable! and the architecture!! i was awestruck by the beauty the entire time. on top of that, the food was incredibley delicious. fresh, homemade pizza for lunch and dinner with gelato in between!!! i felt like josh & i could have wandered the streets of venice, eating pizza and stopping at cafes for cappucinos for weeks! venice is definitely a place i hope to return to.
we left venice and had a long day of travel. First, a 30 minute train ride to Padua. We blitzed through Padua in about 4 hours. First seeing the Scrovegni Chapel which was incredible. The entire inside was frescoed by Giottto in the years 1303 to 1305. It was one of the most beautiful places either of us has ever been in. You can only go in for 15 minutes and they keep the entire place climate controlled (it's a pretty neat system). Then, we got lost in Padua for a while (oops Josh's navigation skills are still improving) then hustled back to the train station to catch a one hour train to Verona. Then we had 8 minutes to make it to our next train, which took us way up north to Bolzano. Finally, we took the one hour bus ride through the mountains (which made topanga cyn seem like nothing) to our destination.
now we are in the beautiful mountain town of kastelruth. kastelruth is set high up in the northern mountains of italy. we are very close to the borders of austria and switzerland and it feels like it. yesterday we went hiking in the mountains and saw beautiful mountains and meadows. during our hike we stopped for strudel and to take lots of pics including a few with some new friends (horses and cows.) kastelruth looks like a postcard and we are trying to "take it all in" as josh says!
OUR FAVORITE MOMENTS OF THE PAST FEW DAYS
Coffee, capuccinos, espresso, coke light (anything with caffeine...especially for Jen!!)
The gondola ride in venice
The amazing greek seaside town of Mykonos
Clean and FREE bathrooms!!
Josh carrying the backpack and all the heavy stuff
The great food and feeling of euphoria after the meal
The unbelievable views on our hikes in the Dolomites of northern Italy
Jen saying wow, wow WOW WOOOWWW WWWWOOOOWWWWWW
OUR LEAST FAVORITE MOMENTS OF THE PAST FEW DAYS
Josh carrying the backpack and all the heavy stuff!!!
Long, tiring travel days.
Dirty bathrooms that cost 2 euros!!
Getting lost again...again...again...even worse when Jen is hungry/tired/in need of caffeine
Ciao and we miss you all
Jen and Josh
Monday, June 21, 2010
Corfu, Greece
Well, here we are in Corfu. It's raining, cloudy, and we're having a great time! I can also promise you we will not be able to keep up this rate of blog updates. We've been very lucky so far and have found easy and cheap internet cafes. Anyway, Corfu is great...we've spent the day just wandering the town, enjoying the sights and sounds of Greece. BTW, Greek food is as good as advertised. I also bought a watch and Jen bought sunglasses. We're both so cheap that combined we didn't even spend more than 15 bucks for them both!! The cruise ship is huge...brand new and really nice facilities. The food is awesome and there is a great pool deck with a huge waterslide. So far so good. That's all for now. We'll post again soon, hopefully!!
Sunday, June 20, 2010
venice & split, croatia
hello from croatia. yes, that means we made it! after traveling by taxi, plane, train and boat we arrived safely and happily (although exhausted) in venice on friday evening. the flights were long but josh was kind enough to give me the aisle seat most of the time and not watch the map station (my moms personal fave.) during our layover we were able to sight see in london for a few hours. we saw buckingham palace, big ben and had tea with the queen. unfortunately the princes were at the world cup so they were not able to join us.
we spent our first night at a beautiful waterfront hotel along the grand canal. they definitely call it grand for a reason. venice is breath-taking!! after checking into the hotel in venice we had our first delicious italian meal of pizza and pasta, we then spent a while getting lost in the streets of venice. one thing i have learned is to use the term street loosely. in venice a street can be a narrow coblestone alley that if you blink you may miss.
on saturday morning we woke up refreshed and enjoyed a nice breakfast at the hotel. we then walked around venice and saw st marks square. saturday afternoon (yesterday) we boarded our cruise ship the norwegian gem. the ship is brand new and beautiful. it carries over 2000 passengers! this is the first cruise ship i have been on with a bowling alley. this morning our ship arrived in split, croatia. we just finished a walking tour of diocletians palace. it is just amazing how big and old the palace is. it is incredible to think that this structure was here 1000 years ago and all of the people and things that have happened in the very places we just toured.
we spent our first night at a beautiful waterfront hotel along the grand canal. they definitely call it grand for a reason. venice is breath-taking!! after checking into the hotel in venice we had our first delicious italian meal of pizza and pasta, we then spent a while getting lost in the streets of venice. one thing i have learned is to use the term street loosely. in venice a street can be a narrow coblestone alley that if you blink you may miss.
on saturday morning we woke up refreshed and enjoyed a nice breakfast at the hotel. we then walked around venice and saw st marks square. saturday afternoon (yesterday) we boarded our cruise ship the norwegian gem. the ship is brand new and beautiful. it carries over 2000 passengers! this is the first cruise ship i have been on with a bowling alley. this morning our ship arrived in split, croatia. we just finished a walking tour of diocletians palace. it is just amazing how big and old the palace is. it is incredible to think that this structure was here 1000 years ago and all of the people and things that have happened in the very places we just toured.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Getting Ready
We leave tomorrow for our honeymoon and to say we're excited and looking forward to it would be an understatement. It began as a 2 week trip, soon Josh convinced me to expand our honeymoon to 3 weeks, then 4 weeks, and now 5 weeks!! At first I was unsure about taking a 5 week vacation (too expensive, too long to be away from home, insert other reasons/excuses here.) Soon however Josh utilitzed his superb persuasion skills (thanks Janice & Alan!) to convince me that we can afford it and who knows when the next time will be that we'll have the opportunity to take a trip like this? Besides, as my sister Ali would argue, 5 weeks is really not very long at all. When we were in Thailand and Cambodia last summer we met people who were traveling for months which made my 2 week trip seem short.
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