Monthly Archives: April 2013

The Last Week

It’s hard to believe that it’s already less than a week until I will be boarding a plane back to the U.S. I don’t know if I can say the semester has flown by because I have been able to do so much in this time that wouldn’t have been possible otherwise. I have gotten to know some amazing people and I am still in awe at the beauty of Italy whenever I walk down the streets of Perugia.

I finished classes over a week ago and already had many presentations and my Italian final. This week, I have two more finals to go. Other than that, I will just be enjoying Italy for my last days of the semester. We have some more “roomie dinners” planned as we so fondly call them. It’s a weird eating week because we’re basically just trying to eat everything we have left, and it doesn’t all mix well together! The weather has gotten beautiful and some days have even felt like summer. We sat on the steps in the main piazza one day and when I closed my eyes – it really did seem like summer with the sun shining down.

This week will be full of many tasks! Here a are a few of them:

1. Laundry. Not so exciting but really, who wants to bring back smelly clothes in an overstuffed suitcase? Especially when said laundry will have to be wrapped around breakable items being brought back? I would really like to avoid this: “Oh Susanna, this is a nice gift…but why does it smell like feet?”
2. Eat the rest of my food. I still have varieties of pasta, cans of tuna, peanuts, and many more random things to eat. I have a feeling this week will test my creative cooking ability.
3. Finish finals. Again, not the most interesting, but necessary. Overall though I have really enjoyed my classes this semester.
4. Pack. Ummm yeah… about that. So let’s play a little math game. Let’s say my suitcases were full when I arrived in Italy (and they were). Let’s say that my essentials which I will be bringing back to the U.S. is the number 5 (random number, but I will make the point I swear). Then the stuff I won’t be bringing back is the number 1. The capacity of my suitcases is 6. Therefore, my essentials (5) + expendables (1) = capacity (6). So… let’s say the amount of things I bought here is the number 2. 5+2 can still equal 6, right? Right??
5. Take pictures of the “usual places.” I have a feeling that some of the places I see everyday are what I would most like to remember.
6. Saying goodbye. To my roommates and friends, apartment, Umbra staff and professors, favorite Perugia spots, restaurants, and much more. But luckily I still have plenty of memories to hold on to.
7. Flying back to the U.S. It is a 10 hour flight (oh the joys) – I just hope the flight won’t be as hot as the one to Italy! Especially considering I will still be wrapped up like it’s winter time, except it won’t be winter anymore. We’re leaving at 4 AM from Perugia on a bus to the airport (Umbra set it up), so you can imagine the sleep I (won’t) be getting the night before. I think I will try to sleep on the plane or else my parents might wonder if a zombie returned from Italy instead of their child.
8. Saying hello. To my family, friends, and life back in the United States!

Il Sud d’Italia (The Amalfi Coast!)

This weekend I went on an optional trip with Umbra to the Amalfi Coast.  We went to Pompeii, Sorrento, Capri, and Naples. In total, 35 Umbra students and 3 Umbra staff went on the trip and it was a lot of fun!  We stayed at a hotel in Sorrento called Michelangelo for both nights and ate each breakfast and dinner there but then had lunch in the city we were in for the day.  My favorite part was getting to know many people I didn’t know very well before – so that was really cool!

Pompeii:
We left Perugia by bus at 6:30 AM and arrived in Pompeii at around 11:30 (with one rest stop along the way). We took a tour of the ruins although unfortunately (some students had been there before on a different tour) we did not see some of the major sights. Actually, according to some of my classmates some of the things my tour guide was saying were conflicting with what they had previously learned. And my tour guide was actually rude to one of my classmates saying some hurtful things! Maybe he was kidding… but still. I only learned these things after the tour though, and I generally enjoyed it because I like knowing more about the history of what I’m looking at.  I most enjoyed hearing about Vesuvius and its eruption – it is such an interesting story of a tragedy that has really helped us to see how people lived back then.

Here are some pictures from Pompeii:

Leaving Perugia in the morning!

Leaving Perugia in the morning!

The gladiators would practice in this arena.

Among the Pompeii ruins – the gladiators would practice in this arena.

Our tour guide describing a theater.

Our tour guide describing a theater.

A different view of the theater.

A different view of the theater.

Vesuvius from afar!

Vesuvius from afar!

Some ancient graffiti!  You can make out a figure.

Some ancient graffiti! You can make out a figure.

One of the main streets!  The bumps in the road is like a crosswalk for when water would be covering the road.

One of the main streets! The bumps in the road are like a crosswalk for when water would be covering the road.

An original lead pipe.

An original lead pipe.

An ancient brick oven.

An ancient brick oven.

Bodies were covered in ash and other materials, preserving their position when they died.

Bodies were covered in ash and other materials, preserving their position when they died.

More disturbing because you can see his facial expression.

More disturbing because you can see his facial expression.

A public fountain.

A public fountain.

A place to tie up your cattle anyone?

Need a place to tie up your cattle, anyone?

Phallic directional symbol?  Oh Pompeii...

Phallic directional symbol? Oh Pompeii…

An original mosaic floor.  The people would have a shop in the front of the house (or just a business area).  Then the back and/or upstairs would be where the family would live.

An original mosaic floor. The people would have a shop in the front of the house (or just a business area). Then the back and/or upstairs would be where the family would live.

Another view of Vesuvius!  There are some temple ruins in front.

Another view of Vesuvius! There are some temple ruins in front.

Oh hello little guy.

Oh hello little guy.

A person and many jars and other artifacts.

A person and many jars and other artifacts.

More jars and other items.

More jars and other items.

This was particularly sad but also interesting to look at.

This figure was particularly sad but also fascinating to look at.

Last view of Pompeii!

Last view of Pompeii!

We ate lunch at a fancy looking place but had very unfancy food.  It was 10 euro for spaghetti alla bolognese, salad (that was actually very good), ice cream, and a drink.

A big group of us ate lunch at a fancy looking place with very unfancy food. It was 10 euro for spaghetti alla Bolognese, salad (that was actually very good), ice cream, and a drink.

HUGE lemons!

HUGE lemons!

Sorrento:
It took around an hour or so to get to Sorrento from Pompeii. We arrived at Hotel Michelangelo, settled into our rooms, and then sought out to see the town. We had a few hours to explore Sorrento and the area was beautiful! We walked to the center of town and then down to the water where we remained until dinner back at the hotel. We walked more around the town after dinner and the following night, seeing more of the town including some beautiful views of the water and stars!

Here are some pictures from Sorrento:

View of Sorrento out the window of the bus!

View of Sorrento out the window of the bus!

Palm trees!

Palm trees!

I just enjoyed the illustrations on the sign.

I just enjoyed the illustrations on the sign.

The center piazza with a statue with attitude.

The center piazza with a statue with attitude.

Me and Vesuvius!

Me and Vesuvius!

There were a few cats down by the dock.

One of the 6 or so cats down by the dock basking in the sunlight.

Delicious lasagna (cheese, clams, pesto)!

Delicious lasagna (cheese, clams, pesto) for a first course with dinner!

Stuffed swordfish, carrots, and potatoes!

Stuffed swordfish, carrots, and potatoes!

Hazelnut flavored ice cream cake - a little too sweet for my liking though.

Hazelnut flavored ice cream cake – a little too sweet for my liking though.

The seaside at night.

The seaside at night.

Capri:
Saturday morning we left in the morning for the island of Capri. We took a private boat tour around part of the island to the Blue Grotto. This is a cave (with a very small entrance!) that you actually enter by rowboat where, once inside, natural lighting illuminates the water giving it a beautiful blue color. I will say it was expensive, but it was worth it – especially the initial (motor) boat ride. It was beautiful weather! Only 3-4 people could fit in the rowboats that go into the Blue Grotto but several boats can be in there at once (only one can enter at a time though), and the boat drivers are very entertaining. Ours sang, took pictures of us and with us, and was just very funny.   It was quite an experience actually entering the cave – such a small opening!  We actually had to lie down in the rowboat to avoid hitting our heads and the rower had to time the waves right!  After that experience, we got back in the motor boat to the main part of the island and took a taxi to the other side of the island where there are some beaches. We were expecting sandy beaches but unfortunately they were small and all rocks! We made it work though with our towels over the rocks and we hung out there for the day. It was so nice to be in the sun – it felt like summer! I didn’t bring a beach towel with me so I ended up buying one in Sorrento before we boarded the boat. The woman selling the towels asked me how I could speak Italian. I simply answered “by studying it,” and elaborated by discussing how I am studying in Perugia and we were in the area for the weekend. I find it to be an ongoing theme that locals (especially in very touristy areas) are surprised to hear tourists speaking Italian with them. I guess I like breaking the stereotype!

Here are some pictures from our day in Capri:

Boarding the boat to Capri!

Boarding the boat to Capri!

A view from the boat!

A view from the boat!

View of Capri from the boat!

View of Capri from the boat!

More of Capri!

More of Capri!

Capri!  We circled around towards the Blue Grotto.

We circled around the island towards the Blue Grotto.

From inside of the Blue Grotto - you can see the beautiful color of the water!

From inside of the Blue Grotto – you can see the beautiful color of the water!

Another view where you can see the entrance.

Another view where you can see the entrance.

Capri coastline on the way back!  Sorry for he heads in the foreground, didn't want to mess up dimensions with cropping.

Capri coastline on the way back! Sorry for he heads in the foreground, I didn’t want to mess up dimensions with cropping.

Heading towards the beach!  A view from the taxi.

Heading towards the beach! A view from the taxi.

A view from my spot on the beach!

A view from my spot on the beach!

Another small beach!

Another small beach!

Riding the taxi (convertible!) back to the other side of the island.  Some beautiful views along the way, although I wasn't able to capture most of them.

Riding the taxi (convertible!) back to the other side of the island. Some beautiful views along the way, although I wasn’t able to capture most of them.

Lemon gelato!  It was delicious and very satisfying after all day in the sun.  The whole region is well known for its lemons and lemon products (fruit drinks, limoncello, gelato, etc.).

Lemon gelato! It was delicious and very satisfying after all day in the sun. The whole region is well known for its lemons and lemon products (fruit drinks, limoncello, gelato, etc.).

A few minutes before boarding the boat back, looking out over the water and Capri.

A few minutes before boarding the boat back, looking out over the water and Capri.

Mushroom soup as a starter for dinner!

Mushroom soup as a starter for dinner!

The main course was cod with clams, cabbage, and potatoes.

My main course was cod with clams, cabbage, and potatoes.

Lemon cake for dessert!

Lemon cake for dessert!

Napoli (Naples):
In the morning we headed to Naples, a metropolitan city also in the area. A tour guide joined us on the bus to Naples, pointing out various scenes along the way, talking about Vesuvius and what would happen if a present day eruption occurred. After we arrived in Naples we continued around the city on the bus then walked around (both with the tour and then after for some free time). There wasn’t too much to see honestly (although perhaps we missed some sights in our time). We walked around a lot, visited some shops and stands and got some fun food. For lunch, we ate Naples pizza (how could you not!). Honestly though, I prefer the pizza place called Pizza Mediterranea back in Perugia. It was still good to see the city though and the weather, as it was all weekend, was gorgeous! It approached 80 degrees while we were there!

Here are some pictures from the day:

Vesuvius followed us along the way!  Our tour guide informed us how the highway is very close to Vesuvius and would be very bad in the event that it would need to be used as an escape road.

Vesuvius followed us along the way! Our tour guide informed us how the highway is very close to Vesuvius and would be very bad in the event that it would need to be used as an escape road.

Naples skyline from the bus.

Naples skyline from the bus.

The America's Cup was going on (apparently several sports events in a few cities) so the atmosphere was carnival like in some areas like this road (balloon-making, clowns, rides, etc.).

The America’s Cup was going on (apparently several sports events in a few cities in the area) so the atmosphere was carnival-like in some parts of the city like this road (balloon-making, clowns, rides, etc.).

Looking the other way down the street.

Looking the other way down the street.

The city is right on the water!

The city is right on the water!

Such a small kitten!

Such a small kitten!

Castel d'Uovo - literally Castle of the Egg.  There is said to be an egg in the basement from many many years ago that protects the castle.

Castel d’Uovo – literally Castle of the Egg. There is said to be an egg in the basement from many many years ago that protects the castle.

Oh some Italians...

Oh some Italians…

This statue has a prize-winning (in my opinion only) mustache!

This statue has a prize-winning (in my opinion only) mustache!

The side of the Royal Palace.

The side of the Royal Palace.

The front of the Royal Palace!  There are several statues under the arches.

The front of the Royal Palace! There are several statues under the arches.

Piazza Plebiscito - the church in the distance is famous in Naples.  It is called the church of San Francesco di Paola.

Piazza Plebiscito – the church in the distance is famous in Naples. It is called the church of San Francesco di Paola.

Castel Nuovo (New Castle) - it was built after the egg one!

Castel Nuovo (New Castle) – it was built after the egg one so it was “new.”

My Naples pizza!  I got Pizza Diavola - it has spicy salami on top.

My Naples pizza! I got Pizza Diavola – it has spicy salami on top.

Looking down a main shopping street.

Looking down a main shopping street.

Looking down a street with the sea in the background while on our walk.

Looking down a street with the sea in the background while on our walk.

A mixed fruit smoothie to go - mmm.

A mixed fruit smoothie to go – mmm.

The main theater - the royalty had a special part of the building made so they would not get wet if it rained on the way to the theater.

The main theater – the royalty had a special part of the building made so they would not get wet if it rained on the way to the theater.

A beautiful building - the Gallery of Umberto the First.  The glass ceiling lets in the natural lighting.

A beautiful building – the Gallery of Umberto the First. The glass ceiling lets the natural lighting in.

Another view - the sunlight is shining through the glass.

Another view – the sunlight is shining through the glass.

Pastries!

Who loves pastries? Well it’s become painfully obvious that I do. But what better than to go to a pastry shop, learn how they are made, and then eat fresh croissants? Count me in.

Last week my Italian class went to a local pasticceria and we went to the back room and learned how croissants are made. We were then able to make some ourselves and eat some that were warm out of the oven – yum! Forgive me for not remembering all of the details, but here is the general process.

You need dough and (good quality) butter!  He listed out the ingredients but I couldn't quite catch them all (he was also speaking in Italian the whole time).

You need dough and (good quality) butter! Our guide listed the ingredients but I couldn’t quite catch them all (note: he was speaking in Italian the whole time).

The layer of butter (yes that is a lot of butter, but let's be real you knew that) goes on top of the dough.

A layer of butter (yes that is a lot of butter, but let’s be real you knew that is needed) goes on top of the dough.

You fold the dough over the butter, roll it out (the best is with a machine), fold more, roll it out.  This happens around 4 times.

You fold the dough over the butter, roll it out (the best is with a machine), fold more, roll it out. This happens around 4 times.

If you were to cut the dough after this process and folded the dough a last time, it would look like this.  If you look closely, you can see all the layers created by the dough and butter.

If you were to cut the dough after this process and folded the dough a last time, it would look like this. If you look closely, you can see all the layers created by the dough and butter.  Yay flaky pastry!

After the last rolling out of the dough, you get a very long piece of dough!  This was only about half of the full length.

After the last rolling out of the dough, you get a very long piece of dough! This was only about half of the full length.

The dough is then cut into a series of triangles.

The dough is then cut into a series of triangles.

The triangles are then rolled into croissants!

The triangles are then rolled into croissants!

The croissant family I made!

The croissant family I made!

The croissants are then let alone to let the dough rise (in an environment with a specific temperature and humidity) for several hours until they are puffy like this.

The croissants are then left alone to let the dough rise (in an environment with a specific temperature and humidity) for several hours until they are puffy like this.

Then put them in the oven!

They are then put in an oven!

Our guide discussing the process.

Our guide discussing the process.

The finished product!  Although this one is a cream filled croissant.  Yum!

The finished product! This one is a cream filled croissant. Yum!

What the inside looks like.

What the inside looks like.

Venezia

Two weekends ago (4/5-4/7) I went to Venice! I left Perugia on Friday and returned on Sunday.

Friday:
I took the 8 AM train to Florence Friday morning and then for the first time I took the Frecciargento train (still Trenitalia, but a high speed train that only made three stops) from Florence to Venice. I arrived in Venice around 1:30 PM and unfortunately, as the weather reports had predicted, it was rainy in Venice. During the train ride I read up on Venice to dos in my Rick Steves book and when I got to the train station I immediately bought the Venice Runner pass. This is a pass for people under 30 years old and it is a combined ticket (there are also some miscellaneous discounts I didn’t decide to read up on) but the main thing is unlimited public transportation use for 72 hours. The Venice Runner pass was 22 euro, but when compared to the one-time fee of 7 euro per vaporetto ride it’s well worth it. The vaporetti are essentially water buses. Venice has a main canal called Canal Grande which is like the Main Street of Venice. The first boat I was on was smaller so it unfortunately moved with the waves much more than a big boat would have so I felt the movement more – but it wasn’t too bad. I mainly just wanted to not have all of my stuff with me lugging it all around in the rain. Finally we arrived at San Zaccaria, the bus stop right after San Marco (or St. Mark). I closely followed the directions that the hostel had provided me and found the hostel quite easily. The owner of Ca’ Venezia (the hostel) is named Aman and was very welcoming. I was worried about the quality of the map the hostel would provide but it was actually a good map, detailing streets and major sights. He outlined a walking and boat tour of the major sights on the map, but encouraged me (as Rick Steves’ book also emphasized) to explore beyond the major touristy spots.

After my mini orientation I packed my little backpack that I take on day trips and set out for the day armed with my umbrella. I walked to Piazza San Marco – a major sight (which also contains several major sights in itself). There is the Basilica di San Marco, Doge’s Palace (turned museum), and a few other sights. I went inside the basilica (or church – and it was free!) then bought a ticket for the Doge Museum. I liked how this museum had a good variety of things to look at – from architecture to paintings to armory to prison cells. Also in this museum is the Bridge of Sighs whose name was romanticized, but it is said that those who were guilty would cross over this bridge to the prison and sigh as they saw the beautiful canals and freedom for (perhaps) the last time.

After the museum, I just decided to start the walking tour that Aman had showed me. I got to Ponte di Rialto which is the most famous bridge in Venice, but soon after I decided I should head back to the hostel to make dinner. This hostel was more like a mini apartment than just a room with several people in it. I was expecting to be sharing one room with 5 other people (what I technically booked) but it turns out I only had 2 roommates, which was nice. We also had a small kitchen (hence the cooking), bathroom, and small dining area. I bought some spaghetti, vegetables, and fruit in advance so that I could make a dinner here (and go out once to dinner). I took the vaporetto back to San Zaccaria again as I had in the morning, found my way back to the hostel (picking up a pastry for after dinner along the way!), and made dinner. Minor difficulties included the lights switching off twice (circuit breaker issues) and a large puddle accumulating on the floor (I think it was ice in the freezer melting). Since there weren’t any paper towels cooking became a barefoot exercise – a cold one at that. However, my feet had gotten used to it (at least my left foot had – there is a hole in my boot somewhere!) because of walking in the rain all day. I ate dinner and my pastry (which was delicious), hung out in the hostel, and went to bed!

We passed through the Bologna along the way - one more city to check off the list!

We passed through the Bologna along the way – one more city to check off the list!

My first look of Venice after exiting the train station!

My first view of Venice after exiting the train station!

My corner of the bedroom.

My corner of the bedroom at the hostel.

Our bathroom (the toilet and shower are to the right - you can see the shower door).

Our bathroom (the toilet and shower are to the right – you can see the shower door).

Our kitchen - if only you could see the puddle!

Our kitchen – if only you could see the puddle!

Our little dining area.

Our little dining area.

An ambulance boat - one of the many differences of Venice!

An ambulance boat – one of the many differences of Venice!

The basilica in St. Mark's square.

The basilica in St. Mark’s square.

The outside of Doge's Palace.

The outside of Doge’s Palace.

The inside of Doge's Palace - this ceiling in the entryway has gold!  That's one way to welcome people... or show off power.

The inside of Doge’s Palace – this ceiling in the entryway has gold! That’s one way to welcome people… or show off power.

Some really interesting weapons in the museum.

Some really interesting weapons in the museum.

Well hello.

Well hello.

Well... that is a real chastity belt.

Well… that is a real chastity belt.

A jail cell.

A jail cell!

A convicted person's last look at freedom (walking over the enclosed Bridge of Sighs).

A convicted person’s last look at freedom (walking over the enclosed Bridge of Sighs).

A zoomed in look outside.

A zoomed-in look outside.

Venice is beautiful - even in the rain!

Venice is beautiful – even in the rain!

Ponte de Rialto!  This is the most famous bridge in Venice.

Ponte de Rialto! This is the most famous bridge in Venice.

St. Mark's square at dusk seen from a vaporetto along the Grand Canal.

St. Mark’s square at dusk seen from a vaporetto along the Grand Canal.

My dinner on Friday - spaghetti, tomatoes, and zucchini.

My dinner on Friday – spaghetti, tomatoes, and zucchini.

And after-dinner pastry!

And after-dinner pastry!

Saturday:
Saturday I left the hostel around 8:50 AM and the first stop was not actually the island of Venice. Instead, I was going to spend the earlier part of the day on two smaller islands you can get to by vaporetto: Murano and Burano. Murano is a bigger island, known for its glassmaking. Burano is smaller but still has a lot of character. It is well known for its lace as well as its houses of every color. Really, it was one of the (if not the most) colorful places I have seen – including Cinque Terre! The vaporetto ride to Murano was about 45 minutes or so and after we finally got there I decided to start the trip off right but having a croissant and cappuccino – yum! Then I decided to actually be productive and explore the island, looking at several glass shops and enjoying the sun. After a few attempts at finding the other vaporetto stop that goes to Burano, I succeeding in getting there in the early afternoon (around 12:30 PM). I was greeted by colorful houses and a small park like area that had hyacinths – I loved the feeling of spring and the sounds of the birds. I once again explored, taking pictures of the area and exploring some shops that were a little out of my price range. After a while I decided to have lunch and bought a panino capricciosa to accompany what I already had with me (banana, trail mix, carrots). It was also nice to be able to fill up my water bottle at a public fountain!

Eventually I made it back to the main area of Venice and decided to ride the vaporetto just to ride the vaporetto and take pictures. Luckily I have that privilege with my Venice Runner card which more than paid for itself. I rode it to the Rialto (the main bridge) and had just taken some pictures when my camera announced defiantly that I needed a new battery! And that’s where the story ends.

Just kidding. I decided I still had enough time left in the day to head back to the hostel, charge the battery, and still have more time to explore (it was about 4:30 PM). I walked speedily (with a few wrong turns – but not too many!) back to the hostel, charged my camera for a little under an hour, then headed back out. This time I would finish the walking route that the hostel owner had originally drawn on my map. I saw many beautiful churches (there are so many of them in Venice!), buildings, canals, stores, dogs, everything! Along the way, on the bridge to Accademia, my camera’s lens had an error. I willed it back to working again, and although I did not get a picture of the Accademia or a few sights after (including a very popular square where a lot of bars and restaurants were situated), I used my camera later though taking a chance and it seemed to work fine. Still need to be careful though! I ate dinner close to the Rialto at a restaurant along the Grand Canal (although I ate inside). I got the tourist menu (15 euro, service included) and chose spaghetti al mare, grilled bass, and mixed salad. A small glass of wine and bread also came with the meal. I was pleasantly full after the meal was finished (the uneaten rolls stuffed away into my backpack when no one was looking). What made my night though was when the main waiter told me that I spoke Italian well. I suppose many American tourists don’t necessarily know much Italian or he was just trying to be friendly. But for whatever reason, it made me feel more connected to Italy and when I went outside the Grand Canal was as beautiful as ever so I felt even more connected to Italy.

Venice really is a place for romantics – all you have to do is look around. But it’s also a place to just feel good about being in Italy. I would say that this feeling is much stronger at night though than during the day. This is because at night all the day-only tourists are gone and the place really becomes alive, not just chaotic like the days can be. I took the vaporetto back but decided to check out St. Mark’s square. I’m glad I did because the area was alive with people and music (and people trying to sell you things). However, while I have found vendors to be a hassle in almost every other city, here I didn’t mind them so much. Perhaps this was because I saw families actually buying their gadgets and enjoying them together so they took on more meaning. Also, I really enjoyed the music playing at a restaurant outside. A crowd had formed so I joined – the musicians had so much energy! After their song had finished and they went to take a break, the crowd dispersed and I slowly made my way back to the hostel. I’m glad that I was able to experience Venice at night because that made my Venice trip that much more enjoyable.

I would recommend people to come to Venice if they have the opportunity for a few reasons. First, it’s gorgeous! Second, it’s quite unlike anything else I have seen before in terms of main roads being water instead of pavement. Third, there is a certain atmosphere that is unique to Venice, especially at night. Fourth, the population is decreasing and due to laws and regulations, the city is slowly decaying (to preserve the old look, but it won’t last forever). Fifth, it’s sinking! Venice might not be around forever, and it’s a place you certainly should make the effort to see.

The Bridge of Sighs from the outside.

The Bridge of Sighs from the outside.

In the morning, St. Mark's square had some flooding!  We had to use these platforms to walk across some areas.

In the morning, St. Mark’s square had some flooding! We had to use these platforms to walk across some areas.

Another look at the flooding in the square.

Another look at the flooding in the square.

Cappuccino & croissant!

Cappuccino & croissant!

Walking down one of the roads checking out all the shops!

Walking down one of the roads checking out all the shops!

The blue sculpture is made of glass!

The blue sculpture is made of glass!

Crossing over a main road (canal) in Murano.

Crossing over a main road (canal) in Murano. It was a beautiful day!

Window shopping!  I wanted to give an idea of all the glass.

Window shopping! I wanted to give an idea of all the glass.

Another window - there were many colors.

Another window – there were many colors.

Another beautiful glass sculpture!

Another beautiful glass sculpture!

More public glass artwork.

More public glass artwork.

I swear that tower is leaning! Burano from afar.

Burano from afar – I swear that tower is leaning!

The hyacinth garden.

The hyacinth garden.

A close up!

A close up!

A view of Burano!  You can see how colorful the houses are.

A view of Burano! You can see how colorful the houses are.

Here you can see some more of the colors.

Here you can see some more of the colors.

One of the local lace shops.

One of the local lace shops.

Picnic style lunch!

Picnic style lunch!

The boat ride back to Venice!

On the boat back to Venice!

Serene Venice.

Serene Venice.

Gondolas!

Gondolas!

Another view of the Rialto.

Another view of the Rialto.

By St. Mark's square.

By St. Mark’s square.

Accademia bridge, looking out over the Grand Canal.

Accademia bridge, looking out over the Grand Canal.

Sunset in Venice!

Sunset in Venice!

Here you can see what the "bus station" looks like and a vaporetto.

Here you can see what the “bus station” looks like (outlined in orange) and a vaporetto.

Spaghetti al Mare for the first course.

Spaghetti al Mare for the first course.

The bass (note: not a whole fish!) and side salad.

The bass (note: not a whole fish!) and side salad.

The Rialto at night.

The Rialto at night – pretty much right outside of the restaurant I ate at!

St. Mark's square at night!  It had a wonderful atmosphere.

St. Mark’s square at night! It had a wonderful atmosphere.

The musicians playing outside at a restaurant - beautiful music!

The musicians playing outside at a restaurant – beautiful music!

An eerie picture of the Bridge of Sighs at night.

An eerie picture of the Bridge of Sighs at night.

Sunday:
I woke up early because I wasn’t sure exactly how long the trip to the train station would take me (plus breakfast, of course!). After two nights in the hostel, I somehow never managed to actually meet my two roommates. They always returned after I had already gone to bed and I always left before they got up! After getting ready, I took the vaporetto to the station and the ride was beautiful! I took many pictures of scenes I had already captured before, but the morning sunlight was just too good. After arriving by the station, I grabbed some breakfast to go (cappuccino and a croissant) at a nearby bar. I boarded the Italo (a different company than Trenitalia) train and unfortunately started out the train ride facing backwards. I later switched seats because the train was not very full at all, thankfully. I arrived in Florence around noon and boarded the train to Perugia 7 minutes later. Luckily I was able to get some homework done on that train (that didn’t go quite so fast) despite a guy in his late 20s or early 30s playing a video game on his phone very loudly. I wondered if he ever left high school… like really? I enjoy video games as well, but I don’t think everyone on the train needs to hear your battle against the computer. The rest of the trip was just fine though and I arrived in Perugia at a good time in the afternoon.

The morning ride back to the train station on the vaporetto had some amazing views of the city!

The morning ride back to the train station on the vaporetto had some amazing views of Venice!

Final look at St. Mark's square!

Final look at St. Mark’s square!

Notice that the front of the building is elaborate, facing the canal - while the side is plainly done (this wasn't a mistake - why pay more when people won't necessarily see it!).

Notice that the front of the building is elaborate, facing the canal – while the side is plainly done (this wasn’t a mistake – why pay more when people won’t necessarily see it!).

Another view.

Another view.

The train station finally in view.

The train station finally in view.

I got breakfast to go for the train - my usual breakfast when I go out!

I got breakfast to go for the train – my usual breakfast when I go out!

The Italo train got up to some pretty fast speeds!

The Italo train got up to some pretty fast speeds!

I almost studied in Ferrara!  I can (sort of) say I've at least seen it now.

I almost studied in Ferrara! I can (sort of) say I’ve at least seen it now.

Cinque Terre

Easter weekend (3/29-4/1) a group of us decided to spend the weekend in Cinque Terre! We stayed Friday-Monday (no class on Monday because of Easter) in an apartment (approximately 22 euro per person a night). The apartment was lovely, especially once we figured out how to turn on the heat! The only complaint would be that a very high pitch sound would sound frequently with the heater, but after a while we got used to it.

Friday:
We woke up early to catch a 7:30 AM bus to Florence – this is the same bus we took when we originally went to Florence at the start of the semester. It was a direct bus with no stops, and it was packed! Luckily we made it to the bus station early enough to have good seats and we slept most of the ride. In Florence we met up with two people my roommate had met on a previous trip and we took the train to Monterosso. Monterosso is the northernmost town in Cinque Terre (which means “five lands” aka five towns). Moving south from Monterosso is Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. We arrived in the afternoon around 2:30 PM and our very kind landlord met us at the train station to walk us to our apartment. She explained the apartment, pointed out some grocery stores, and gave us a map with a brief description and some train schedules. She was also nice enough to buy us some more olive oil for the place so that we could cook for ourselves. There were five of us in total and the apartment had two bedrooms with a big bed in each, and then a sofa bed for one. There was a decent sized full functioning kitchen and a dining area as well.

Although it was damp outside it wasn’t raining thankfully so we explored Monterosso for the rest of Friday. Our apartment was in the newer part of the town and we walked along the walkway along the water towards the old historic center. We all loved the beauty of the ocean (although technically it was the Mediterranean Sea) and took way too many pictures – I swear they were all necessary! It was nice to breathe in the sea air and watch the waves. That’s the nice thing about Cinque Terre – there aren’t too many sites that you have to see. Instead, you just wander around and explore and take in the beauty of the area.

For lunch we ate pizza (I got anchovy pizza which I’ve become quite fond of) and for dinner we ate at a lovely restaurant close to the water. We had a table right next to the window and there were a fair number of people in the restaurant giving it a nice atmosphere without being too crowded. I shared a spaghetti al mare (spaghetti in a sauce with mussels, clams, and squid) with my roommate (minimum two portions to order so we both had plenty). I also ordered a caprese salad and we shared a bottle of Cinque Terre white wine. The food was delicious! And the prices, while still above average, were quite reasonable – especially considering my last dinner eating out experience… After dinner we strolled back home along the water and went to bed pretty early since we were tired from getting up early in the morning.

Our first look at Monterosso!  The weather wasn't the best but seeing the ocean was lovely.

Our first look at Monterosso! The weather wasn’t the best but seeing the ocean was lovely.

One of the bedrooms of the apartment.

One of the bedrooms of the apartment.

The other bedroom.

The other bedroom.

The kitchen! We saved a lot by cooking some of our own meals.

The kitchen! We saved a lot by cooking some of our own meals.

Our dining area.

Our dining area.

Pull out couch bed - was actually quite comfortable!

Pull out couch bed – it was actually quite comfortable!

The front of our apartment.

The front of our apartment.

A little backyard with a lemon tree!  We made lemon tea and used some lemon in our fish dish when we cooked our own dinner.

A little backyard with a lemon tree! We made lemon tea and used some lemon in our fish dish when we cooked our own dinner.

The clouds were very low and it was misty out.

The clouds were very low and it was misty out.

We wanted to climb this rock... but we would have gotten soaked.

We wanted to climb this rock… but we would have gotten soaked.

Heading towards the old, historical center.

Heading towards the old, historical center.

Walking down the main street.

Walking down the main street.

And eating a late lunch! I got anchovies pizza, my newfound topping of choice.

And eating a late lunch! I got anchovies pizza, my newfound topping of choice.

This is the church we would later go to Easter service at on Sunday.

This is the church we would later go to for Easter service at on Sunday.

Water splashing up against the rocks! Some waves came uncomfortably close.

Water splashing up against the rocks! Some waves came uncomfortably close.

Walking along the boardwalk at night!

Walking along the boardwalk at night!

Our spaghetti al mare!

Our spaghetti al mare!

The outside of the restaurant.

The outside of the restaurant.

Saturday:
We were planning to go to Vernazza and Corniglia on Saturday but unfortunately we only made it to Corniglia (and you’ll see why). Our landlord alerted us that the walking paths between towns were closed due to the rain which was quite unfortunate because that’s a main thing tourists do in Cinque Terre. Since the paths were closed we would have to take a train to get to the different towns. I suggested that we see Corniglia first and then Vernazza because there isn’t as much to do in Corniglia so we could spend the majority of the day in Vernazza. The Debby downer of the day was that it was legitimately raining hard on Saturday. The rain wasn’t too bad though until we were heading back towards the train station in Corniglia. Before that we had hiked up the road from the train station to the town center, explored the (few) streets, took some pictures trying not to soak our cameras or break our umbrellas (because of the wind), and drank hot chocolate in a bar (remember an Italian bar is both a café serving coffee and sandwiches but also a place that serves alcohol). As we started heading back to the train station the rain and wind really picked up, as in the rain was being blown sideways directly at us. We didn’t take the road down (which winds along the side of the big hill/small mountain) but instead took stairs that descend the mountain slalom-style. With each turn of the stairs I would turn my umbrella to face the wind but despite my best efforts, my boots and the front of my pants were completely soaked by the time we got to the bottom of the hill (along with everyone else’s). We had been going strong before that, but once we were soaked we decided it wasn’t worth it to go to Vernazza and be freezing.

At the train station we apparently had become too confident with train schedules and did not read the screen displaying the arrivals/departures correctly. We stood waiting for a half hour or so at platform one…that’s when we saw a train traveling in the direction we wanted to go arriving at platform three. In Italy you get fined for crossing the train tracks and so by the time we determined it was the right train and had run down the stairs (under the tracks) to platform three… it was sadly already leaving. We had to wait another hour for the next train so we ate the lunches we had packed (luckily I had put mine in a plastic bag so it wasn’t soggy) and the time passed. When we got back to our apartment some took naps while others of us watched a movie. We were planning on buying groceries for the next day but when we finally left at around 7:40 PM it was too late and the grocery stores were closed. Luckily we already bought Saturday’s groceries on Friday so we made pasta and carrots for dinner – I was close to ravenous at the time so it tasted amazing.

Breakfast! (Croissant - yes with some nutella, banana, eggs, and grapefruit juice).

Breakfast! (Croissant – yes with some nutella, banana, eggs, and grapefruit juice).

The corniglia coastline - you can see Manarola from afar.

The Corniglia coastline – you can see Manarola from afar.

Hiking up to Corniglia!

Hiking up to Corniglia!

Walking down the narrow streets of Corniglia.

Walking down the narrow streets of Corniglia.

Some of the houses of the town.

Some of the houses of the town.
Hot chocolate!  This gives you an idea of how thick it is. Hot chocolate! This gives you an idea of how thick it is.

This gives you an idea of how soaked the front of our bodies were!

This gives you an idea of how soaked the front of our bodies were!

Sunday:
After the failed grocery attempt the previous night, we embarked on our grocery spree in the morning at around 9:10 AM. We bought breakfast, lunch (which would be tuna sandwiches), and dinner (which would be a seafood rice meal with zucchini). We wanted to go to a church service at a local church that started around 11 AM, but we ended up being slightly late (but only by around 5 minutes). Nevertheless, we had to stand for the service because there were many people there. Although I could only understand parts of it, it was interesting to compare the service to my own back home. I only recognized the tune of one of the hymns they sang but the music and the passing of the peace were probably my favorite parts.

It was supposed to rain some in the afternoon on Sunday but the clouds never came (besides a few here and there) and it was a beautiful day! It was certainly interesting to compare Sunday’s weather to the deluge on Saturday. After much picture taking in Monterosso with the newfound sun (and of course the sea) we went back to our apartment, packed our lunches, and headed out for the train station. We would be exploring Riomaggiore and Manarola this day!

I was hoping that, if nothing else, the trail between Riomaggiore and Manarola (Via dell’Amore or Trail for Lovers) would be open but unfortunately it wasn’t because of the previous rain. However, that did not stop us from walking all over town up and down many hills to see some spectacular views. On our way back down the main drag after much walking, we decided to buy some fried fish (the delicious aroma was everywhere!). I bought a small cone of fresh fried calamari – you can guess how delicious that was! Afterwards we walked down to the area closer to the breakwater where water from the town meets the sea and rocks out in the ocean.  This is a way to prevent some of the big waves from crashing against shore. While there (and picture-taking, of course) we got a little too close to some of the wave action. One person’s legs got soaked when she was getting her picture taken. Then one time we were all too close and a huge wave came towards us further up the ramp than any other one had so far – luckily I caught it on video! After ever more water picture-taking, we finally headed back to the train station to catch the train to Manarola.

We had spent the majority of the day in Riomaggiore so we didn’t spend as long in Manarola, but we still had a good chunk of time. We walked to high points to see the views, and along the way found a small piazza in front of a church where we sat for a bit. There was another group of older Italians basking in the sunlight against the church and the moment felt very Italian. I even played with a little dog who was announcing his presence with a bark to the whole piazza. Afterward we headed down closer to the water, ate some gelato, and eventually made it back to the train station. As my Rick Steves book about Italy points out, trains are often late between the Cinque Terre towns – and this time it was certainly late (around 20 minutes or so). However, it was just late enough for us to be able to watch the sun setting over the water so I would say it was well worth the wait! Otherwise we likely would have missed the sunset on the train ride back to Monterosso.

Once back at our apartment we eventually made dinner – a mixed seafood and rice dish with a side of zucchini. We also bought a Colomba cake for desert which is an Italian tradition on Easter. I had raved about it after my Italian teacher brought some in for our class (I swear it was really good!). This cake we bought (made by a different brand) looked very similar but seemed to have a slightly different recipe…it was not nearly as good. Oh well – we tried at least!

Easter breakfast (Creme filled croissant from a local bakery, eggs, banana, grapefruit juice)!

Easter breakfast (Cream filled croissant from a local bakery, eggs, banana, grapefruit juice)!

A beautiful day!  A view of Monterosso's coastline.

A beautiful day! A view of Monterosso’s coastline.

After our Easter Service!  It was time for a photo shoot.

After our Easter Service! It was time for a photo shoot.

We were welcomed by this mural in Riomaggiore!

We were welcomed by this mural in Riomaggiore!

The main street of Riomaggiore!

The main street of Riomaggiore!

A view of the town and water!

A view of the town and water!

Another beautiful view!

Another beautiful view!

A view looking back at the town and the mountains.

A view looking back at the town and the mountains.

The beautiful water!

The beautiful water!

Fried calamari! So  delicious!

Fried calamari! So delicious!

Down by the breakwater.

Down by the breakwater.

On to Manarola!

On to Manarola!

Manarola! My favorite view.

Manarola! My favorite view.

Corniglia from afar (not pouring).

Corniglia from afar (not pouring).

I spy with my little eye... a cat resting in the sun?

I spy with my little eye… a cat resting in the sun?

Classic Italy.

Classic Italy.

Some afternoon gelato!  I got my usual flavors plus a new one called Faustanza - unfortunately it had a sort of cherry flavor I wasn't too fond of.

Some afternoon gelato! I got my usual flavors plus a new one called Faustanza – unfortunately it had a sort of cherry flavor I wasn’t too fond of.

Sunset over the water!

Sunset over the water!

Easter dinner of seafood rice and zucchini.

Easter dinner of seafood rice and zucchini.

The Easter Colomba cake which was not as good as we were hoping.  We think it was just the brand though.

The Easter Colomba cake which was not as good as we were hoping. We think it was just the brand though.

Monday:
This was our last day in Cinque Terre and was the day to explore Vernazza, the town immediately next to Monterosso. We were only there for a few hours because we wanted to catch a train that left around 2 PM. The rain held off for most of the time we were there but really picked up towards the end – not before pictures though!  Vernazza was a pretty town and I wish we had more time there, but we were all also pretty tired from the weekend.

Side note story: Once we were in Florence (train transfer) I was waiting in line for the bathroom (that was pretty long already) and finally after waiting for some time it was my turn to go next. I was standing semi in the doorway when this girl, perhaps in early middle school, walked right in front of me. I noticed two younger ones right behind her, but no adult was with them. The big girl who seemed like the type who could be a bully at that age then turned, looked up… and stared right at me. It was as if she was saying with her eyes, “Are you going to do anything about it?” I was initially sort of in shock basically thinking is this actually real? I then looked back at her, stepped in front of her, and body blocked her from going into the stall when the woman before me left. Needless to say once I exited the stall I gave the girl a look as she had to wait her turn. Oy!

Other than that little mishap – it was a great trip! It was an added bonus that I got to play with a dog on the train ride home. I highly suggest Cinque Terre for anyone visiting Italy. It’s a great place where you don’t have to worry about seeing a bunch of sights – just relax, hike, and enjoy the area.

The main street in Vernazza.

The main street in Vernazza.

Port town!

Port town!

A view at the end of the main road where there is the breakwater and port.

A view at the end of the main road where there is the breakwater and port.

Looking back at the town...and me!

Looking back at the town…and me!

Vernazza!

Vernazza!

Delicious focaccia (with cheese and tomato) once we got back Monterosso!  The rain stopped for the rest of the time we were there.

Delicious focaccia (with cheese and tomato) once we got back Monterosso! The rain stopped for the rest of the time we were there.

Our last afternoon in Monterosso.

Our last afternoon in Monterosso.

My new friend on the train.

My new friend on the train.

Roma

Two weeks ago I went to Rome! It was beautiful all weekend averaging mid-60s with sunshine. I left Thursday night (3/21) and returned Sunday afternoon (3/24).

Thursday:
Initially, this trip wasn’t supposed to have a Thursday.  For this trip to Rome I was going to leave early Friday morning and stay until Sunday morning.  However, I received an email in the afternoon on Thursday from Umbra saying that all local transportation was going to be cancelled on Friday (except for a few hours in the day).  At the bottom of the email, in bold mind you, it said that all Trenitalia trains were cancelled on Friday.  Well, as you can imagine, this presented me with a problem since I was going to take the Trenitalia train on Friday morning.  So I somewhat frantically started looking for hostels to stay the night in Rome on Thursday, found one right by the train station (Roma Termini) for a decent price (16 euro), and booked it.  An hour later, I received a “just kidding” email stating that only the local transportation was going on strike and Trenitalia trains would be running.  I realize now that I should have looked into it myself before making quick decisions, but I had class in the afternoon and didn’t want to get stuck not being able to go to Rome until Saturday.  However…I’d still say that Umbra owes me 16 euro.

So I took the 8:30 PM train to Rome and arrived around 11:30 PM.  Why did I take the train so late?  Well, I didn’t think there would be much for me to do in Rome on Thursday night (by myself) and I didn’t want to frantically pack and be stressed after class to catch an earlier train.  I will admit that when I arrived I was a little sketched out to be walking in the city so late by myself, but the hostel was really only about a 5 minute walk from the Roma Termini and it was fine.  The hostel (Alessandro Downtown Hostel) was nice with a good environment and welcoming staff.  I shared the room with 5 other women who were already in bed so it was difficult getting settled in in the dark, but we each had a little storage area so I at least had a place to put my things.

Friday:
I will say that I was able to get more sleep (sort of) sleeping at the hostel because I didn’t have to wake up early to take the train, although some others sharing the room with me certainly woke up early.  Most of them were quiet (or at least trying to be) except one girl who forgot to turn off her alarm before she went to take a shower.  The first time it went off for a solid few minutes until a French girl got up out of bed and turned it off.  However, she didn’t know how to actually turn it off (only snooze) so it went off twice more, much to her (and all of our) dismay.  When the culprit returned from her shower, the French girl did not waste any time letting her know that she needed to turn her alarm off.  I slept until about 8:30 AM, when most of the others had left already except for two girls.  They were nice (one of them the night before had pointed out the only free bed which I was very thankful for in the dark) and described how they are spending a few months all around the world where, if they work for 5 hours a day, they can get free board.  It sounds like a cool program – I had never heard about it before.  I checked out of the hostel at 10 AM and went out to find Stellahouse, the bed and breakfast where I would spend the next two nights.

I found the place relatively easily.  Stella and a lady who I assume is her daughter checked me in and were wonderful hosts.  They provided me with a good map (that actually lists all the street names) of Rome (not in its entirety but of the main section most tourists go – so it was all I needed).  They circled areas, told me the best routes to go by walking, train, and by bus, and provided me with keys.  Here I paid extra (35 euro a night) to have my own room and the less hectic atmosphere of a bed and breakfast.  I have to say it was well worth it – Stella was really a lovely host.

I then set off for the day to explore Rome!  For this city, I decided to follow Rick Steves’ advice for what to see in a 2-3 day period.  This meant that on Friday I would see the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, Roman Forum, Pantheon, Piazza del Popolo, and then walk the “Dolce Vita Stroll” – in that order.  I opted out of buying the Roma Pass for the weekend for a few reasons.  The first was that the only pricey item I would want to see that would be covered by the Roma pass was the Colloseum-Palatine Hill-Roman Forum combo.  Second, all local transportation in Rome was also on strike on Friday so buying the Roma Pass (that covers the metro, buses, etc.) would not be worth it.

Going to Rome I was most excited to see the Colosseum and I am glad I did that first before walking the many miles I would this weekend.  When I first saw the Colosseum I do have to say it took my breath away, I had never seen anything like it.  I decided to join a group tour (27 euro vs. the normal ticket price), bypass the long line, and get more out of the experience.  I saw the Colosseum, Palatine Hill (basically used to be a giant palace on a hill with gardens), and Roman Forum (used to be the center of Rome’s activity so all the famous Romans at some point walked through there).  By the Roman Forum I joined some others on some stairs and had a snack under the warm afternoon sunlight.  After my snack, I did a lot more walking, seeing many sights such as Capitoline Hill and the Pantheon. At one point a guy tried to convince me to go on a private tour (his tour) of major sights…needless to say I said no thanks to that one. He did have a quote I liked though. He said that “You (americans) like Italy because it’s so old. We love the USA because it’s so new.” I just found that to be interesting if you really think about it. Later on my journey on Via del Corso I heard my name! I was very confused at first but then realized it was the two girls from the hostel I had met that morning! Very cool. Anyway, we parted ways and after more exploring it was eventually time for dinner.

Dinner was, how should I say it, an experience I wasn’t quite expecting.  And by an experience I wasn’t expecting I really mean a price I wasn’t expecting to pay.  I ordered pasta alla carbonara (9 euro), a side salad (a whopping 6 euro), water (an ever more whopping 4 euro for a bottle), and bass (5 euro… per 100 grams that is).  In my defense, I did not have my menu when I ordered the water and thought it would be no more than 3 euro.  The pasta and side salad I understood – but the bass was the killer!  From my Brussels experience I thought I would get a small piece of fish for 5 euro (I blame the menu for not making it clearer that it was per 100 grams).  I was already full after bread, pasta, and salad, so imagine my surprise when they brought out an entire fish (head, tail, skin, everything) on a plate.  The problem wasn’t really having to deal with getting the meat off the fish, it was more the shear amount of food I would have to consume to not feel guilty wasting the meat.  I ate slowly, chugging along… but I just couldn’t do it.  I ate as much as I could (perhaps 3/4 of it), then had to give up for fear that I would get sick!  Then I asked for the bill… and what a bill it was!  Turns out the fish was 400 grams (you do the math).  Not only that, but the restaurant charged a sitting charge and a service charge. I had never experienced that before in Italy – I think they were targeting tourists. How lovely, right?  Anyway, it cost a total of 46 euro (around 60 dollars).  Yikes!  Most expensive meal I’ve ever paid for. Needless to say I promised myself I would not be eating at any restaurant for the remainder of the weekend.  I waddled on home after dinner, stuffed to the brim, and was greeted by Stella asking about my day for a brief conversation.  After a nice chat, I settled into my room and watched Gladiator in honor of the day’s activities – a great movie!

Here are some pictures of Friday:

Outside of Roma Termini Station from afar.

Outside of Roma Termini Station from afar.

This is Santa Maria Maggiore.

This is Santa Maria Maggiore.

Shout out to my family!  You understand.

Shout out to my family! You understand.

My first view of the Colosseum!

My first view of the Colosseum!

Proof I was there!

Proof I was there!

An entrance to the main area of the Colosseum!

An entrance to the main area of the Colosseum!

A view of the interior.

A view of the interior.

Standing in the section where the emperors would have sat!

Standing in the section where the emperors would have sat!

And another!

And another view!

Arco di Costantino - upon entering Palatine Hill.

Arco di Costantino – upon entering Palatine Hill.

A view of what was the palace's garden.

A view of what was the palace’s garden.

Some of the ruins of the palace.  This palace used to be huge!

Some of the ruins of the palace. This palace used to be huge!

Some other ruins, the large pillar/corner of the room on the left was the height of only the first floor - I wish there was a person there to put it in perspective!

Some other ruins, the large pillar/corner of the room on the left was the height of only the first floor – I wish there was a person there to put it in perspective!

Overlooking the Roman Forum!

Overlooking the Roman Forum!

This is the Monumento a Vittorio Emanuele II.

This is the Monumento a Vittorio Emanuele II.

Bacio (the famous Perugia chocolate) and Nocciola (hazelnut) gelato!

Bacio (the famous Perugia chocolate) and Nocciola (hazelnut) gelato!

The Pantheon!

The Pantheon!

In Piazza Navona!

In Piazza Navona!

Again in Piazza Navona.

Again in Piazza Navona.

A view of the Fiume Tevere (river).

A view of the Fiume Tevere (river).

In Piazza del Popolo - there were political demonstrations going on.

In Piazza del Popolo – there were political demonstrations going on.

The Spanish Steps!

The Spanish Steps!

And the pictures of the most expensive meal ever begin! This was the spaghetti alla carbonara.

And the pictures of the most expensive meal ever begin! This was the spaghetti alla carbonara.

Don't you just love water with a huge markup?

Don’t you just love water with a huge markup?

My insalata mista - usually the "mixed salad" in Italy has many more types of veggies in it.

My insalata mista – usually the “mixed salad” in Italy has many more types of veggies in it.

The infamous bass.

The infamous bass.

Largo di Saint Susanna!

Largo di Saint Susanna!

Saturday:
Saturday morning I ate breakfast at the bed and breakfast (cappuccino, croissant, bread that was crouton texture but is the size of small bread) with Stella, another woman who was a photographer mostly for heavy metal bands, and a professor. Afterwards, I walked to the metro station and took the metro (the only time I took public transportation during the weekend) to the Vatican. Unfortunately I got there around 10 AM which is the start of peak time on a Saturday, but the wait was only about an hour and I caught up on reading my Rick Steves book. I enjoyed the museum, particularly the ancient Egyptian exhibit and obviously the Sistine Chapel. I have to admit the room isn’t quote what I was expecting – I am not sure why.  I think I was expecting more of a dome type ceiling and different lighting.  Nevertheless, I found a seat in the Sistine Chapel and sat there awhile, taking in all of the scenes. It’s amazing what humans can create! Afterward, I checked out St. Peter’s Basilica and finished up in Vatican City.

I eventually found a delicious panino (salami and mozzarella) for a not ridiculous price (everything was around 4 euro!) of 2.50 euro. I then walked over to Campo de’ Fiori where there is an outdoor market with food and other assorted items, pre-bought my dinner of a panino (focaccia, mozzarella, tomato, olive oil, and spices), some brazil nuts, and dried papaya. I continued to explore, making my way over to the Trevi Fountain. Eventually, it was time to actually eat dinner which I thought would be nice to do on the Spanish Steps. Unfortunately, as I was walking I started to hear music playing aloud…kept walking closer and the steps were blocked off! By this time I was so hungry and tired from walking for a few days straight that this was quite upsetting. I was soon distracted though as I looked closer at the steps because instead of people on the steps there were… small pandas? Turns out there was a benefit concert for the World Wildlife Fund – so clearly I couldn’t eat my dinner there. I ended up walking back to Piazza della Repubblica (relatively close by the bed and breakfast) and ate dinner. I don’t think a sandwich ever tasted so good! I lounged on the steps eating and people-watching until eventually the sun set. Rome had been a success!

Here are some pictures from Saturday:

Piazza della Repubblica in the morning!

Piazza della Repubblica in the morning!

Waiting outside of the Vatican!

Waiting outside of the Vatican.

An interesting looking staircase inside of the Vatican.

An interesting looking staircase inside of the Vatican.

Some Egyptian statues!

Some Egyptian statues!

Statue of the Nile!

Statue of the Nile!

Statue of Anubis.

Statue of Anubis.

A mummy!

A mummy!

Laocoon statue.

Laocoon statue.

Inside St. Peter's Basilica!

Inside St. Peter’s Basilica!

The dome of the basilica!

The dome of the basilica!

The Vatican guards!

The Vatican guards!

A view of the front of St. Peter's Basilica.

A view of the front of St. Peter’s Basilica.

The Castle of Saint Angelo.

The Castle of Saint Angelo.

Campo de' Fiori market.

Campo de’ Fiori market.

Trevi Fountain!

Trevi Fountain!

The Spanish Steps with miniature pandas all over them.

The Spanish Steps with miniature pandas all over them.

My yummy sandwich!

My yummy sandwich!