My Travel Blog

Vatican City Museum

2007-07-14T08:15:00.000-05:00

Visiting the Vatican City Museum was extraordinary. We were allowed to take pictures without flash. There are tapestries on the walls that must be protected. When you walk along the main walkway you are surrounded with exquisite beauty from ceiling to floor. It is hard to comprehend that what you are seeing is centuries old and each piece of art..each and every tapestry..each and every figure and scene.. tells a story...a story many have read or have heard from the time they were little children.

Entrance to the Vatican Museum

The exquisite ceiling in the museum

Closeup of the ceiling...some of the figures I thought were painted are actually sculptures and are three dimensional

Wall tapestry

Wall Tapestry

Unusual statue because it is of an ordinary and weak man and not a politician or emperor

Close up of unusual statue

Graceful statue

A nun who was making beautiful cameos for sale

I would love to have been able to purchase one of her beautiful hand painted cameos. Proceeds would have gone to charity. I just couldn't afford to do it. I loved her gentleness.

From Street Vendors To The Vatican City

2007-07-13T06:59:00.000-05:00

As I look at my pictures, I wish I knew more about the things I saw. I hope I don't give wrong information about the pictures, but it is entirely possible that I might. We were given small transistor listening devices for what was called our "whisper tours" I think. We followed a tour guide on each expedition and he/she gave lessons on the historical significance of the sites we were visiting. There were many tours going on and depending on the quality of the reception I am sure there was a lot that was missed. I know that is true for me.

Before doing this post I looked up The Vatican City Rome and learned that The Vatican City is the smallest independent state in the world, ruled by the Pope, Europes's only absolute monarch.

A major part of the Vatican consists of the Basilica St. Peter, Catholicism's most sacred shrine. I will post pictures of St. Peter's next.

Below are some pictures of The Vatican City.

The last picture is where the audience sits when the Pope makes an appearance. The statues on the top of the building are the saints.

Postscript: It has come to my attention that I should let everyone know that the pictures I am posting are pictures I have taken. It seems one of my readers thinks the pictures look professional and he wanted to make sure everyone knew that I had taken them. Thank you, Joe! I love that you appreciate my pictures!

First Hotel In Rome

2007-07-12T07:18:00.000-05:00

I didn't know what to expect in terms of hotel accomodations. Our first hotel was old and one might say the rooms were cozy. It had a certain charm if you are looking at it from the outside and not actually moving in. Cozy charm was quickly translated into "Oh my goodness, where am I going to put anything and still move around." The room was maybe 12 x 12 with two doll size twin beds maybe two inches apart and no real closet. There were two cubby holes that you could hang a few things in, a nightstand beside each bed and a small desk. The bathroom was designed for half a person with a big sense of humor. There was no air conditioning, but there was a nice window that could be opened and I could look out onto my first Rome street which I discovered became the home to early morning street vendors. Now that had some charm!

Christopher really enjoyed the feeling of "cozy welcome" of the early morning street vendors. It would really have been nice to have more time to just meander along the street and look at all the wares being sold.

As I continue to share our experience I think I will be making the distinction between things we saw and moments we experienced. Taking in the early morning scene outside this hotel was a wonderful, romantic and briefly experienced moment. I wanted more of this moment.

Scenes As We Drove Into Rome

2007-07-03T06:26:00.001-05:00

I took these pictures through the bus window as we drove from the airport into Rome and to our hotel. I am absolutely amazed at the soft beauty of these beautifully romantic scenes. I sincerely hope you enjoy them as much as I do.

I Love The Sky

2007-07-03T06:11:00.000-05:00

Christopher had never flown before. He wanted a window seat and these pictures will show you why. I handed my camera to him and this is what he saw. The sky is a neverending story to me. You took some beautiful pictures Christopher!

Jet Lag

2007-07-01T22:13:00.000-05:00

We are home.............I think! I am having significant jet lag plus a slight fever and a cough. Tom, Sarah, Kara and Sam were at the airport to meet us and it was so good to see them. Our plane arrived later than it was supposed to.........midnight rather than the 10:30 p.m. original time. We ran into unexpected delays out of Philadelphia and by that time everyone was very ready to be home. My friend, Joe, tracked our whole flight home online. He knew where we were at any given time. He could see a little plane flying across the ocean. Isn't that amazing? My ankles were so swollen they looked like elephant legs and when the swelling started to go down the itching started. I guess that is what happens when swelling goes down. This is all new to me. I will be posting pictures soon. This afternoon I thought I would take a nap about 4:00. I woke up four hours later at 8:00. I think jet lag still has me in its grips. How are you doing Christopher?

Back on US soil

2007-06-28T17:07:00.000-05:00

Tom here reporting in for Judy.

"We're in Philadelphia, back on American soil so I can once again read all the signs." Their departure from Frankfurt was delayed. When they approached Philadelphia they had to circle for 30 minutes or so waiting for a weather system to pass. They had just cleared customs when I spoke to Judy. They leave for Minneapolis in another couple hours. She and Christopher are anxious to be home with family.

On Way Home

2007-06-28T03:05:00.000-05:00

Joe here reporting for Judy...11.10am Thursday, Frankfurt time.

Judy and Christopher and their group are on their way home. Although somewhat uncomfortable, they are safely at Frankfurt airport where they have approximately another two hours of their stop over before catching the onward flight to Philadelphia.

When I spoke to Judy, they were trying to find a place to sit down having had to vacate their seats at the departure gate to make way for travellers who were catching an earlier flight.
At least, she is not feeling the cold now as she managed to find a shirt in her luggage.

Well I'm glad to report, that despite their ordeal, they are both in good spirits and looking forward to eventually getting home.

Visit to the Temple of Apollo and Delphi Museum

2007-06-26T15:11:00.006-05:00

Judy at Temple of Apollo

Judy and Christopher at Temple of Apollo

Central among the number of imposing ruins that are interspersed on the Southern slopes of Parnassos mountain is the temple of Apollo. It is an imposing temple of the Doric order whose existence was woven through the turbulent history of the site, and endured numerous incarnations before it settled to the ruinous state we find it today, and which dates back to the 4th c. B.C. The temple of Apollo was first built around the 7th c. B.C. by the two legendary architects Trophonios and Agamedes. It was rebuilt after a fire in the 6th c. B.C.. and was named the "Temple of Alcmeonidae" in tribute to the noble Athenian family that oversaw its construction with funds form all over Greece and foreign emperors. This temple was also of the Doric order and had 6 columns at the front, and 15 columns at the flanks.

Temple of Apollo

This temple was destroyed in 373 B.C. by an earthquake and was rebuilt for the third time in 330 B.C. Spintharos, Xenodoros, and Agathon, architects from Corinth. The sculptures that adorned its pediment were the creation of Athenian sculptors Praxias and Androsthenes. It was built to similar proportions and size as the Alcmeonidae version of the temple, with a peristasis of 6 and 15 columns along the short and long edges respectively.
The temple's foundations survive today along with several Doric columns made of porous stone and limestone which is fairly soft material, and have allowed for the temple's advanced decaying. Very little is known about the temple's interior arrangement.

Inside Delphi Museum..large spinhx of Naxos c. B.C. 566

Kouros Statues..Kleobis and Biton c. B.C. 580

Perirrhanterion Tripod and Caryatids

Aged philosopher..280 - 270 B.C.

and Delphic Oracle

Inside Delphi Museum

All above pictures by Judy.

Some Pictures From Judy

2007-06-26T14:24:00.000-05:00

Christopher and Gma on board ship

Walls that change colour two days a year

Street in Delphi

Judy and roommate, Tammy

Christopher

Water

Greek letters

First cloud in Greece

Judy at store near hotel

Hot hot hot in Delphi!

2007-06-26T13:18:00.000-05:00

Tom here, reporting in for Judy.

I just got off the phone with Judy, Skype, that is. She was talking to Sarah and Davey via PC to PC. Then Joe appeared on Yahoo messenger so we had quite a party, or at least Judy did. We could not hear the others but Judy could hear all of us.

They were in Delphi today and visited the Temple of Apollo in extreme heat.

"It was 115 degrees here today. It was so hot that we were totally exhausted from all the walking. On the way back to the hotel, I had to keep talking to myself in my mind to find the energy to keep going. I kept saying to all those I love, 'I'm coming, I'm coming' just to keep myself going. I really had to work hard. Happy anniversary!"

From the Associated press.
Europe heatwave leaves 31 dead
Jun 26 11:54 AM US/Eastern
Sizzling temperatures in Greece, Italy and Romania has brought power cuts and brush fires in a heatwave that has led to at least 31 deaths in south-east Europe in recent days."This is the worst day since the heat wave started with 46 degrees (Celsius; 114.8 Fahrenheit) in two towns," Nikos Kanteres of the Greek meteorological service, said.Seven large brush fires broke out on Monday and today in Greece and hundreds of people were evacuated from threatened homes near the southern city of Pyrgos, 200 miles south-west of Athens. The Greek government closed most public services early at noon, as temperatures in the capital reached 43 Celsius (109.4 Fahrenheit).

Tomorrow is a bus tour, resting the feet.

Photos to come later.

Some Pictures From Greece

2007-06-25T16:41:00.000-05:00

Picture of Christopher sitting on Mediterranean beach

Picture of me in bathroom mirror

Driving to hotel in Delphi

View from hotel room balcony

Beautiful moon over Greece

Judy at restaurant with nice gentleman that welcomed the group

Calling from Greece

2007-06-25T14:31:00.000-05:00

Tom reporting in for Judy.

"We arrived today in Greece after taking an overnight ferry - more specifically, a medium sized cruise ship. Christopher and I selpt most of the trip... the best night sleep we have gotten so far. We left Brindisi, Italy and arrived in a harbour of the Ionic sea. We took a bus from there to Delphi. Today was a very relaxing day and this part of the trip is less hectic than was Italy. It has usually been after 9:00 PM when we arrive back at our hotel. "

"Christopher is doing great and having a wonderful time here. The Greek food is absolutely wonderful and our hotel room is beautiful with a little balcony that looks out on the mountains. The view is spectacular!"

Judy's phone message. http://www.box.net/shared/68vqqlqpdu

The Isle of Capri

2007-06-23T16:15:00.000-05:00

Tom here, reporting in for Judy.

At 3:50 PM Saturday Minnesota time, I received an urgent call from Italy. Yes, it was Judy. She and Christopher had just spend the day on the Isle of Capri and now it was nearly 11:00 PM.
"It is one of the most beautiful places in the world! Christopher and I both marveled at how amazingly pretty everything was. Then we swam in the Mediterranean."
I said, "Judy, you didn't bring a swin suit did you?"
"No."
"Did you find a nude beach???" (Long pause.)
"No... I zipped off the legs from those cargo pants I bought at REI and wore a t-shirt over my bra."

Back to the urgency of her call.

"When I went to download all the amazing pictures I took today, a message came up on my computer asking if I wanted to format my memory card!!!!!! I had used a brand new memory card today and I didn't realize that you are supposed to format the card first. Is there a chance that I can save all those wonderful photos??"
My first answer was no. I told her there were no pictured on her memory card if she did not format it first.
"No. I can see all my pictures on my camera."
I told her in that case, not to worry because we have the software utility that can find and save photos from a corrupted memory card, even after it's been formated.
She will set that memory card aside and use others, as she brought several.
She didn't want to go to bed tonight without getting an answer to that queston.

Her cell phone has not worked in Italy at all so she was using a pre-paid phone card at the hotel phone.
She said their luggage finally arrived, but in the mean time she wore Target pajama bottoms and a t-shirt to St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel on their first day in Rome.

"I'll be in no shape to go back to work when I get home. It is absolutely exhausting! This is the most exhausting thing I've done in my life. Even with my expensive hiking shoes, my feet hurt.
I asked about Christopher's boots.
"His feet hurt too. Everybody's feet hurt from all the walking."

She said Christopher realizes again and again how lucky he is to be there. "Every day the two of us have several magical goose-bump moments."
"Last night we were sitting at a tiny little cafe when on the street a man began singing opera. Then a woman joined him. We were looking across at The Colosseum. Now, if we'd been home in Minnesota, sitting at Perkins, we'd be looking out at a Ford dealership!"

"Tomorrow we get up early and are off to Pompeii. Christopher has been saving his disposable camera for Pommpeii. Then, we take the night ferry to Greece."

Ciao.

Some First Day Pictures

2007-06-21T18:01:00.000-05:00

A meal of frankfurter sausage at Frankfurt airport in honour of my dad whose grandpa came from Germany (Adam take note)

Our plane that bore us safely from Frankfurt to Rome.

Judy and Christopher on board plane.

A Roman street.

Roman road sign.

We Arrived Safely

2007-06-21T17:51:00.000-05:00

I am sitting in a phone store or something like that about 2 1/2 blocks from our hotel...we are at the Hotel Florida in a room about the size of our closet. It is 9:35 Rome time and this is the first I have been able to get on the internet. This is an internet hotpoint and I guess I am lucky it is so close to the hotel.

I wanted you to know we are here. There is a ton to tell - a comedy of errors for the first few days here. The entire groups' luggage didn't make it here, it is supposed to be arriving at midnight tonight - x your fingers.

Waiting for luggage that failed to arrived

It is hot - mid 80's and humid, a bit unseasonable for this time of year. We all drink water like crazy and with sweating more than I ever have in my life and drinking gallons of water I still hardly have to go to the bathroom. Sorry guys, but that is the truth. I am laughing; it is the truth of the situation. Our feet hurt, our legs hurt. We have walked and walked and walked and walked, and go ahead and multiply that by about 10.

The tour is extremely fast paced and we are taking in a lot. Tomorrow morning we leave for our optional at Florence at 7 am - it is a 4 hour drive. We will be there about 11 and will leave for home about 4 in the afternoon, back in Rome about 8 and then dinner someplace.

We have had two wonderful and full days and when I get another chance to get on the internet I will write more. I can't even begin at this hour of the night after such a long day to start sharing the events and the high points. Well one makes me want to cry. We were in the Sistine chapel, so much to tell about that. I stood in front of the alter looking at Christ on the crucifix and all I wanted to do was say the Lord's Prayer. So I did! Then I called Christopher over and said it with him standing next to me and then I said every prayer our family says at bedtime and meal times and blessed you all. I just blessed you all. It was the spot that
the Pope stands when he is there, it is an active chapel. And yes! there is lots of information but for me saying prayers was a very emotional and touching experience. We walked on the floors of the coliseum that the Romans walked on 2000 years ago. It is all very overwhelming and I am sure has not made its way into my being yet.

Christopher is having a wonderful time, he and I both got goosebumps today when we visited St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel.

Safely in Frankfurt

2007-06-20T04:44:00.000-05:00

This is the other reporter, Joe, checking in. As Judy, Christopher, and their group of fellow travellers have arrived in my time zone, it is my pleasant task to relay this report. They have arrived safely in Frankfurt. Their flight was pleasant, but as both Judy and Christopher were unable to catch any sleep during the flight, they are both totally exhausted.

When I spoke to her earlier, they had a further two hours of the stopover remaining before catching the onward flight to Rome, where they will arrive at approx 1pm local time (6am Minneapolis).

Their highest altitude during the flight from Philadelphia to Frankfurt, as shown by the inboard route tracker, was 37,000’. The outside temperature at that height was -62 Fahrenheit.
Further update will be relayed as soon as it comes to hand.

On our way!

2007-06-19T13:27:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Chris and his charter school class trip, we are leaving together for Rome from the Minneapolis Airport.

This is Tom reporting in for Judy. I saw Chris and Judy off this morning, just a few hours ago. Judy was up at 5:30 AM reviewing her packing decisions from the night before and making last minute changes in her wardrobe. (We will learn from her later whether she made the right choices.)

I'm leaving for the Minneapolis airport, luggage in tow.

Just When I Thought

2007-06-17T22:56:00.000-05:00

Yep, just when I thought I was settled on what clothes to bring I visited my daughter, Sarah's, closet. She sent home three pairs of pants and two shirts to see if I wanted to take them with me. I will try things on tomorrow and see what goes and what stays.

I also tried one of her visors on which seems to be a good deal. Each little thing makes me feel like I am on my way.

Thanks Sarah!! I remember the days when you used to visit my closet. How fun is this? It is still a little hard to believe we fly out day after tomorrow!

Incidentally, the picture behind me is my Mom and Dad's wedding picture.

It Is Time

2007-06-17T09:32:00.000-05:00

In many ways I feel like I have already been on this wonderful trip. Seeing pictures of the places I am going to see and reading a little about each one has transported me into the future. I usually try to stay in the moment but the planning part of me took me into the future in the best possible way.

I am going to go start packing now. Why? Because....................

It is time!

Safe Travel Hints

2007-06-17T09:19:00.000-05:00

Here are some helpful hints to make our travel safe and hopefully we will all come home with no losses that could have been prevented.

1. Be very wary of pickpockets around public transportation and in and around the museums in Athens.

2. Do not carry anything you cannot afford to lose.

3. Women, do not carry a purse that would be easy to snatch.

4. Men, do not carry your wallet in your back pocket.

5. Enjoy the trip!

Our Tour Is Coming To An End With These Last Two Attractions

2007-06-17T09:12:00.001-05:00

When you leave the Plaka area, look for Hadrains Arch. From here you can see the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the other attractions in Athens.

Hadrian's Arch

The Temple Of The Olympian Zeus

Shopping In The Plaka District..I Hope!

2007-06-17T08:51:00.000-05:00

The Plaka district is on our itinerary. After reading a bit about the goods that are available I might just be packing an extra suitcase or two. (No, I won't. I am already at my limit for what I can carry.) It is just knowing I will probably not be heading back to the Plaka district anytime soon.

Just down from the Acropolis is the Plaka District. This area is made up of pedestrian streets that wander this way and that and offer excellent shopping and dining opportunities. A visit to the Plaka is almost a given after a visit to the Acropolis. Relaxing in one of the sidewalk cafes enjoying a local dish and some ouzo is a great way to spend the lunch hour.

Temple Of Athena Nike

2007-06-16T12:16:00.000-05:00

The Temple of Athena Nike ("Victorius Athena") in Athens was the earliest Ionic building to be built on the Acropolis. The temple was built around 427 BC and completed during the unrest of the Peloponnesian war.

Made completely of marble, its small size was compensated for in its position, resting on a rocky outcrop, purposely positioned so the Athenian people could worship the goddess of victory in hope of prosperous outcomes in the war's endeavours.

The decision to build Athena Nike was an expression of Athens's ambitions to be a world power as opposed to Persia. The frieze on the temple displays the decisive victory over the Persians at the battle of Plataea and a meeting between the gods Athena, Zeus and Poseidon.

Once the temple was completed the Athenians added a protective parapet. The parapet displayed an expression of determination and hope for final victory.

In the cellar of the temple is a statue of Athena as Nike Apterus, the goddess without wings. Her wings may have been removed by the Athenians in the hopes that she would remain in Athens.

The Acropolis An Historical Site Not To Be Missed

2007-06-16T11:05:00.000-05:00

The Acropolis is the one historical site you can't miss. You can take a tour or wander up there yourself but during the summer, whatever you do, unless it is overcast, go early or late in the day. It can get very hot up there and gasping for breath can take way from your ability to marvel at the greatest of all archaeological sites.

The Parthenon and other main buildings on the Acropolis were built by Pericles in the fifth century BC as a monument to the cultural and political achievements of the inhabitants of Athens. The term acropolis means upper city and many of the city states of ancient Greece are built around an acropolis where the inhabitants can go as a place of refuge in times of invasion. It's for this reason that the most sacred buildings are usually on the acropolis. It's the safest most secure place in town. As little as 150 years ago there were still dwellings on the Acropolis of Athens.

Even having seen a thousand photographs one is still not prepared for the immensity of the Parthenon. The building was designed by the architects Kallikrates and Iktinos as the home of the giant statue of Athena. It took 15 years to build and was completed in 438 BC and is probably the most recognizable structure in the world next to the golden arches of McDonalds. From a temple it became a church, a mosque and finally as a storage facility for Turkish gunpowder. In 1687 the Venetians bombarded it from below. A cannon ball hit the gun powder and blew it up.

Omonia Square Worth A Trip

2007-06-16T10:46:00.000-05:00

Omonia Square is a must see when visiting Athens. It is like visiting New York City and knowing you must take a peek at 42nd Street.

As the main square for Athens business centre, Omonia sees a constant stream of people and cars 24 hours a day.The bustling square does not really have any aesthetic quality itself, but is surrounded by shops, offices and many hotels. It is a major station for metro, trolleys and buses and it is easy to travel to any part of Athens from there. Omonia Square has become more cosmopolitan in the last few years, and down the side streets you may find a few Indian, Pakistani and Chinese businesses and restaurants. The kiosks of the square sell a multitude of foreign newspapers and magazines, and you are sure to find something in your language.

The Olympic Stadium Athens Greece

2007-06-16T10:18:00.000-05:00

It will be amazing to visit the home of the olympic games. Below is a picture of the old olympic stadium and the new olympic stadium.

The stadium was originally designed in 1979 and built in 1980-1982. It was completed in time to host the 1982 European Championships in Athletics. It was inaugurated by the President of Greece, at the time, Konstantinos Karamanlis on 8 September 1982. It also hosted several events of the 1991 Mediterranean Games and the 1997 IAAF World Championships in Athletics, sought in order to prove that it was capable of hosting major sporting events after the failure of Athens to win the 1996 Summer Olympics. It was extensively renovated in time for the Olympics, including a controversial roof designed by Santiago Calatrava that was added atop the sidelines in order to shade fans from the strong Athens sun. The roof was completed just in time for the opening of the Games, and the stadium was then officially re-opened on July 30, 2004.

Trying Out My Noise Cancelling Earbuds

2007-06-16T08:49:00.001-05:00

They work!! I wore them last night as I worked around the house getting things in order before I leave on Tuesday. Tom came up to talk to me as I was moving about and I didn't hear him at all. I have never had an mp3 player before and I am really enjoying it. It is like being in a different world. It just might make cleaning house something to enjoy! OK, that might be going a little far!

And On To The Delphi Museum

2007-06-16T08:13:00.000-05:00

Our next visit will be to the Delphi Museum. How does a person comprehend all we will be seeing and hearing about? I am beginning to think, as I share all this, that my life will be changed in ways I can't even fathom!

The Delphi Museum is situated right next to the ancient site of Delphi, and is a fascinating museum, filled with truely remarkable artifacts, statues and findings from excavations that have taken place in the site of Delphi.

The main building of the museum is a shining white marble structure, that is very modern, considering the ancient site next door that dates back thousands of years.

Temple Of Apollo

2007-06-16T08:02:00.000-05:00

In Delphi we will be visiting the Temple of Apollo. Apollo was the Greek god of prophecy and Delphi was dedicated to him. This photo (and the upper left of the photo below) shows what is left of his temple which was built late in the 6th century BC. The temple was the largest structure in Delphi and and the center of oracular activity. Delphi's tradition of providing prophecies to pilgrims (who first dropped a few coins at the treasury and sacrificed an animal) continued eight hundred years until the 2nd century AD.

From Patras To Delphi Greece

2007-06-16T07:40:00.000-05:00

Our overnight ferry ride from Brindisi in Italy will take us to Patras in Greece. There is something romantic about that. I wonder if it will feel as romantic as it sounds.

Our first day trip in Greece will be to Delphi. Today, Delphi is one of the most attractive archaeological sites of Greece. Its rich grounds and museum represent classical antiquity with such clarity even the uninitiated visitor can grasp. Its importance as an archaeological site, coupled with its location at an idyllic landscape makes it one of the most visited sites of Greece.

Delphi was considered by the ancients to be the center (Omphalos = navel) of the world, and the oracle of Delphi was a religious center, most famous for its accurate predictions of the future. The oracles were given by Pythia, the priestess who muttered incomprehensible sounds in a state of trance, which in turn were translated in comprehensible language and given to those who made the pilgrimage in search of answers.

Common folk, generals, and kings alike, consulted the oracle of Delphi on matters of importance. Matters of importance ranged from mundane every-day family disputes, to the decision of a state to go to war with another, or to establish a colony. The reputation of Delphi crossed cultural boundaries, and throughout history it held amicable neutrality with its oracles. At the same time, the oracles of Pythia were notoriously ambiguous, and could be interpreted several different ways.

Credit Card and Debit Card Travel Notification

2007-06-12T17:43:00.001-05:00

I learned something else today as I continued my preparations for the trip. I never would have thought of contacting both my credit card company and my bank to notify them of my travel plans. The Commercial teller at Wells Fargo alerted me to yet another safety precaution.

He said to contact customer service, let them know when and where you will be traveling so they will not wonder about new expenditures on your card and possibly lock your card. You wouldn't want to find it locked when trying to use it and not know what was happening.

You should also get the international 800 numbers for your credit card company and your bank. In case of loss or theft you can call the international number and report your loss.

I learned from calling my Wells Fargo debit card customer service that there are different international 800 numbers for Ialy and for Greece. I will be making a hard copy of all this information to have with me so I will be prepared for even the worst case scenario.

My friendly banker told me he learned by experience. This is one case a person really can learn from someone else's experience.

TRANSPORTATION SECURITY ADMINISTRATION SITE

2007-06-12T07:50:00.001-05:00

Yesterday was the big meeting at the school. Information was handed out regarding our flight itinerary, hotels and packing. As expected there were a lot of questions to be answered.

Here is the site for the Transportation Security Administration. It gives all the information necessary for what is allowed and not allowed in your carry-on bag.

It gives the what and the how to pack things to speed the process of going through security.

http://www.tsa.gov/

The Day Of The Mandatory Meeting

2007-06-11T08:40:00.000-05:00

Today is the day we get our airline tickets and itineraries. Tom took this picture early this morning. Looking relaxed and in control is as much a surprise to me as anyone. I am wearing a new shirt that I just love and will be wearing on the trip. If fact, I own several of these shirts and will be wearing them almost every day. What I love is the message on the back, Life Is Good. ( And, life is really good!) Not only do I love the message, I love the story of the two brothers who started the company. If you have an interest in reading a success story through struggle and determination, check out the website. I will post the address below the picture.

www.lifeisgood.com

Big Meeting On Monday June 10, 2007

2007-06-10T22:21:00.000-05:00

There is going to be a mandatory meeting on Monday, June 10. All the tour participants that are able to make it will receive their airline tickets, itineraries and a free backpack. Any questions anyone has will be answered and some of us will be meeting others for the first time. I am looking forward to meeting some, if not all, of the people I will be traveling with. There is something about spending this kind of time with new people. We will see each other at our best and at our worst. We will eat together and sleep together and see the world together.

As far as my preparations have gone.......I am thrilled to be almost done. I have a few things left to do, but for the most part I am ready, except for doing a trial packing.

I have planned for three things that are important to me.......safety, comfort and independence.

The truth is, this is only my second international trip. On my first international trip, I was fortunate to be going to a friend's home, where Tom and I would stay for the duration of the trip.

I think there are many people my age who are seasoned world travelers. I am not, although I feel much more seasoned now. I have spent a lot of time giving thought to making sure I am prepared in as many ways as I am able to predict. While I can solve problems well, I prefer to prevent problems. It makes life so much easier.

One of the nicest things I have done in the last couple of days is put music on my mp3 player. It was a Mother's Day gift from Tom. I expect to enjoy some of my music on the long flight. I know on other flights I have loved to watch the sky to Bach. There is something truly magical and majestic about that.

I will be picking Christopher up tomorrow and we will go to the meeting. I think it is going to seem really real when we hold those airline tickets in our hands!

Sometimes I Make Myself Laugh..From Brindisi To Patras

2007-06-06T22:46:00.000-05:00

It was the most amazing thing!

A moment ago I went to view my own blog....yes, the very blog I have been working on for weeks now. I went to get information on Patras, which will be our next stop. And, it was then and only then, that it hit me. Patras is in Greece. I knew that, but apparently I didn't KNOW that! I must not have said good bye to Italy in my mind and all of a sudden I was in Greece!

I have been getting information on all our stops in Italy for so long that I didn't think about Greece until the ferry landed (if only in my mind). I am really enjoying doing my research, and I will be getting information about the places we will be visiting in Greece in the coming days.

Do you see what I mean now? Sometimes, I make myself laugh! Well, at least I am easily entertained and can laugh at myself. It never hurts to have a "Duh!" experience!

Brindisi ... Where We Will Catch The Ferry To Greece

2007-06-06T22:30:00.000-05:00

Sitting on the boot's heel of long-legged Italy is Brindisi, one of the three main towns of the Salento peninsula.

Moving south, Italy changes, everything is different - the light is different, the language is different and the sea is different - deeper, open, Italian, Greek, Mediterranean.

Brindisi has always been known because of its port, the gateway to the East, built by the Romans that exploited its natural shape, which looks like of a deer's head. It is one of the safest ports in the whole of the Mediterranean.

From here the Crusaders sailed to liberate the Holy Land. The Silk Route passed through Brindisi and it is still possible to spot the wagon rails used to move the goods from the trains onto the British P&O ships that connected London to Bombay.

More recently, the port's most significant role has been to connect Italy to Greece and long before charter flights became such a big thing, travellers had to pass through here to make their way to Greece and further afield.

Pompeii Will Be The Next Stop On Our Tour

2007-06-06T20:40:00.000-05:00

The most memorable volcanic eruption in the history of civilization began about noon on 24 August 79 A.D. The mountain of Vesuvius awakened with unimaginable force 17 1/2 years after the devastating earthquake of 62 A.D. There had been no real warning of the explosion, though wells suddenly went dry 10 days earlier and the cows grazing on the slopes of Vesuvius were behaving strangely.

On August 23, 79 AD, Pompeii looked like any other busy, prosperous city. People were moving about, trading goods, news, and friendly talk. Three days later, on August 26, all of these sounds had fallen silent, and the place itself had vanished. Almost nothing was seen of Pompeii for more than 1500 years. (Click here for a timeline of events in Pompeii) Now, more than 1900 years later, we are learning more and more about the last days of Pompeii. What happened to Pompeii preserved a treasury of information about life in the ancient Roman Empire.

Simple Overview Map Of Where We Will Be Going

2007-06-06T08:10:00.001-05:00

Although this map shows some places that are not on our itinerary, I thought it was a good, simple visual for actually "seeing" our tour route. We will be flying into Rome.....see the airplane? I liked that!

Our tour will include Rome, an optional trip to Florence for a day, Capri, Sorrento, Pompeii, Brindisi, Patras, Delphi and Athens.

We are scheduled to go on an island cruise of Capri and will be traveling by overnight ferry from Brindisi to Patras. See the ferry? We will then be going to Delphi and Athens.

We will be flying home from Athens. See the plane? Maybe you can tell I am a visual person!

Back To Where We Will Be Going..Capri And Sorrento

2007-06-06T07:40:00.001-05:00

Capri

Capri is an island of limestone rock that represents the outermost tip of the mountain chain on the Sorrentine peninsula. The coastline, whose dolomite cliffs fall right to the sea in many spots, is dotted with countless caves and surrounded by reefs whose shapes suggest fantastic creations.

Sorrento

Its picturesque site and mild climate have made Sorrento popular with tourists. The remains of the Roman and medieval eras are fragmentary. Sorrento early became an episcopal seat. During the early Middle Ages Sorrento appears to have been largely independent under its own dukes and often in conflict with the neighboring town of Amalfi and invading Arabs. In 1137 it fell to the Normans and thereafter shared the political fortunes of Naples and its kingdom. Population (1996) 16,459.

New Link Under Favorite Links

2007-06-05T09:09:00.000-05:00

I added a Currency Converter link under My Favorite Links.

In the box just fill in the US dollar amount you would like to convert like this...........200 (for $200.00)

From the drop down menu choose US Dollars

From the next drop down menu choose EURO

Click convert and voila! You will get less EURO for your dollar! Spend it wisely!

Travel Needs And Accessories At Luggage World

2007-06-04T21:33:00.000-05:00

I have found the place to go to get the things I need for this trip. I have been wondering about converters and adaptors and what do I do with my hair? While some girls and ladies can just put their hair up or let it dry naturally and come out looking great, that is just not my story at all! Nope! So, I kept searching for options and finally came up with the answer to all my dilemnas. It is a long story but the bottom line is............

LUGGAGE WORLD IN ST. LOUIS PARK ON 36TH AVE. (IT IS IN THE BURLINGTON COAT FACTORY AREA)

Luggage World is a one stop shop for your traveling needs. They carry the converters and adaptors you need for all international travel, and the owner of the store and the young lady who helped me (Ally), were knowledgable, helpful, kind and nice to do business with. I got a great sleep mask that will fit nicely over my glasses, a converter and several adaptors for charging my digital camera, cell phone and my bluetooth headset. I got a light rain poncho in case I get caught in an unexpected rain shower, a travel alarm that also tells the temperature and best of all................best of all...............a small, compact, foldable hairdryer and a small curling iron both of which come with adaptors. I also got a great compact bag that will double as my purse and camera bag. I am including pictures so you can see what I am talking about.

If you have any questions about any of these things, the folks at Luggage World will be happy to help you and you can leave home knowing you have the things you need!

Click on the pictures for a larger image.

The Spanish Steps - This Will Complete Our First Site-Seeing Day In Rome

2007-05-28T11:25:00.000-05:00

The Spanish Steps were named after a local 17th century ambassador's residence. No ordinary staircase, the steps are a bewildering mix of curves, straight flights, vistas, and terraces, usually covered with huge pots of flowers and lounging sightseers. Although the views from the top are superb, most people cluster around the Piazza di Spagna at the foot of the steps.

The Spanish Steps (as the Scalinata della Trinita' dei Monti is known in English) are a majestic series of three flights of steps that lead up to the impressive double-belltowered church (before which stands an obelisk). This complex can best be seen from far down Via dei Condotti. In early summer they are sometimes completely covered with flowers of many colours making a delightful sight. In summer the myriad of tourists who come here often just sit on the steps to soak in the atmosphere and watch the street sellers and the charicature artists who work at the foot of the steps plying their skills.

The Trevi Fountain - One Of The Beautiful Attractions We Will See

2007-05-28T11:03:00.000-05:00

As I read about the Trevi Fountain, I found myself lost in the beauty of it. For a romanticist, this might just be one of my favorite places to visit.

- Trevi Fountain -

You will not find any other place in the world that celebrates the ever-mutating and incredible power of water like Rome. The Trevi Fountain is a fantastic work of art that is much more than a mere sculpture. This triumphant example of Baroque art with its soft, natural lines and fantasy creatures embodies movement as the soul of the world. The fountain is a true wonder, a jewel of water and stone that is nestled between the palaces of the historic centre of the city.

You can already hear its presence from the nearby streets. Indeed, as you get nearer the sound of its gushing waters grows constantly more intense, reaching a crescendo in the square, where you will find the most breathtaking sight. Suddenly, the space seems to open out and you stand before a symbolic representation of this great force of nature, a tumultuous spring that seems to flow out of the ground.

The light and shade effects on the marble make the wind seem to bellow through the drapes and locks of the statues, agitating the waves, creating an extraordinarily intense and spectacular scene. In this Baroque creation, the architecture itself seems to come alive with the current of the revitalising waters.

There is a curious tradition regarding the Trevi Fountain. It is said that if you throw a coin over your shoulder into the water, you will be sure to return to Rome. A second penny grants your wish. Yet another rite says if couples drink from the small fountain on the left they will be faithful to each other forever.

The Pantheon -Another Site On Our First Day In Rome

2007-05-27T14:52:00.001-05:00

The Pantheon is one of the great spiritual buildings of the world. It was built as a Roman temple and later consecrated as a Catholic Church. The only natural light enters through an unglazed oculus at the center of the dome and through the bronze doors to the portico.

As the sun moves, striking patterns of light illuminate the walls and floors of porphyry, granite and yellow marbles.

Piazza Venezia - The Hub Of The City

2007-05-27T13:23:00.000-05:00

We will soon be in the the hub of the city! Rome, here we come! In a matter of a few weeks, this will be so much more than a picture. Our footprints will be a part of the Rome, Italy landscape!

Piazza Venezia is the large central square in the hub of Rome. Almost any bus that you might want to be on will eventually pass through the piazza. It is close to many important tourist sites including the Roman Forum and the Capitol Hill. Unlike most of the piazzas in Rome, this is relatively square in conception, and was laid out late last century as a worthy home for the Monument of king Vittorio Emmanuele II.

The Colosseum

2007-05-27T12:47:00.000-05:00

As our tour continues, we will be visiting the Colosseum.

The Colosseum or Flavian Amphitheater was the first permanent amphitheater to be built in Rome. Its monumental size and grandeur as well as its practical and efficient organization for producing spectacles and controlling the large crowds make it one of the great architectural monuments achieved by the ancient Romans.

The Colosseum was designed to hold 50,000 spectators, and it had approximately eighty entrances so crowds could arrive and leave easily and quickly.

The plan is a vast ellipse, measuring externally 188 m x 156 m (615 ft x 510 ft), with the base of the building covering about 6 acres. Vaults span between eighty radial walls to support tiers of seating and for passageways and stairs.

The facade of three tiers of arches and an attic story is about 48.5 m (158 ft) tall — roughly equivalent to a 12-15 story building.

What To Wear In Rome

2007-05-26T23:09:00.000-05:00

Inside Rome: What to Wear

If you’re visiting Rome in the summertime, make sure you pack the right clothes – for weather and for “blending” in! So, what do Italians wear when it’s hot? The answer is not surprising – pants, shorts and cool shirts (like t-shirts and tanks). White, green and blue are the big colors (just like in America).

For footwear, remember that Rome has some pretty tough streets to walk on – cobblestones, for example. Many of the local women seem to walk effortlessly on heels or wedges. But, if you’re not used to that (and to save a trip to the podiatrist when you get home) wear comfortable, low heeled shoes (or tennis shoes). Anticipate that you will walk a lot! If you're not used to lots of walking, or you decide not to wear tennis shoes, bring a box of Band-Aids, just in case. When visiting religious sites remember to cover your shoulders and absolutely no shorts! However, covering your head is not required at most sites.

Forum Romanum

2007-05-26T22:22:00.000-05:00

The Roman Forum, which we will also be visiting, was the political and religious centre in ancient Rome. It was mostly abandoned at the end of the 4th century. The importance of the Forum area is indicated by the presence of many of the central political, religious and judicial buildings in Rome.

The site of the Forum Romanum is still subject to excavations, and several parts of the Forum cannot be visited, but the whole area has the status of an archaeological site, open to visitors.

Today, the forum known as the Forum Romanum can look like a disorderly collection of ruins to the uninitiated, but with some imagination you can see the Roman empire come back to life at this site. Remains of many buildings from different periods are visible; the forum was littered with temples, basilicas and triumphal arches.

The Vatican City

2007-05-26T21:22:00.000-05:00

One of the first places we will be visiting in Rome is The Vatican City. Here is a brief description of it.

The Vatican City, one of the most sacred places in Christendom, attests to a great history and a formidable spiritual venture. A unique collection of artistic and architectural masterpieces lie within the boundaries of this small state. At its centre is St Peter's Basilica, with its double colonnade and a circular piazza in front and bordered by palaces and gardens. The basilica, erected over the tomb of St Peter the Apostle, is the largest religious building in the world, the fruit of the combined genius of Bramante, Raphael, Michelangelo, Bernini and Maderna.

We will also be visiting the Sistine Chapel.

This work has been and truly is a beacon of our art, and it has brought such benefit and enlightenment to the art of painting that it was sufficient to illuminate a world which for so many hundreds of years had remained in the state of darkness. And, to tell the truth, anyone who is a painter no longer needs to concern himself about seeing innovations and inventions, new ways of painting poses, clothing on figures, and various awe-inspiring details, for Michelangelo gave to this work all the perfection that can be given to such details.
(Giorgio Vasari on Michelangelo's frescoes in the Sistine Chapel)

Without having seen the Sistine Chapel one can form no appreciable idea of what one man is capable of achieving.
(Johann Wolfgang Goethe in 1787 in Rome)

Our Flight Schedule

2007-05-25T22:08:00.000-05:00

Today I learned our flight schedule. We will be flying from Minneapolis to Philadelphia to Frankfurt, Germany and then to Rome. It made it a bit more real!

Time is fleeting. There are only a few weeks now before we say good bye to our families and lift off to a new adventure.

There is a lot to do including making decisions about what to take with me. I am a girl and electrical appliances are a part of my everyday life. I am doing research on electrical adapters and converters so I will have what I need to charge my camera batteries, cell phone battery and my bluetooth headset.

Much to my chagrin, I may be leaving my laptop at home. Traveling light and simple might just be the order of the day. I will see.

Just An Example Of What I Will Do With My Italy/Greece Pictures

2007-05-24T12:04:00.000-05:00

I learn something new everyday. Today I learned how to make a collage of pictures using a new program. Below is a collage of some of my pictures from my Ireland trip. I am looking forward to creating multiple collages of this new and exciting trip I will be taking with Christopher. What a lucky girl I am!!

If you want a larger view of the collage, please click on it and you will be able to see each picture very clearly!

Italy And Greece Here We Come

2007-05-04T17:25:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone..I have decided to start a new blog. This blog will focus on the trip I am taking with my grandson, Christopher. It is funny how it all came about. I was having lunch with his mom, my daughter, Kara, and she casually mentioned that Christopher had an opportunity to go to Italy and Greece with his school. I simply said four words, "When do we leave?" Well, that led to this most wonderful opportunity.

On June 19th, 2007, Christopher and I will fly to Italy and Greece and return June 29th, 2007. I am doing certain things to get ready including getting a new cell phone which is set up for International use and a Bluetooth Headset so I will be able to walk and talk and not have to hold my phone or have an earpiece with a cord dangling.

I have also purchased a Skype number so my family should be able to talk to me virtually free of charge. I have tested the Skype connection from as far away as Ireland and it is fabulous...clear as can be.

I will be posting as our preparations go along and I will certainly do my best to update the blog with pictures while we are there as I plan at this point to take my laptop with me.

Traveling has not been a big part of my life. I have made one international trip to Ireland with my husband, Tom. And, now, my second international trip is going to be with my 14 year old grandson, Christopher, which makes me smile and think what a wonderful opportunity I get to have.

I hope you will all check in regularly to see our progress and share our excitement!