Florence

Here are a few photos of my time in Florence....

Lining up for Gelato at Grom...reportedly the best Gelato!!!...It was pretty good...but then again, I don't think I had a bad gelato in Italy

Views of the Ponte Vecchio at night

View of Florence from Piazza Michelangelo

Another lovely view from Piazza Michelangelo

A wonderful fabric shop

and shoes....would definitely NOT want to try walking in these

Orvieto

One of the highlights of my trip to Europe was to spend 6 days on an artistic interlude in a town called Orvieto.  Orvieto is situated on a rock made of Tufa (volcanic rock)...it was the most beautiful place to spend a chunk of time. 

The beautiful Duomo

The view from my window

Detail of the Duomo

One of my favourite views

Local market produce

Wine tasting at Palazzone Winery

Views back to Orvieto from the winery

the beautiful pool at the winery (which is also a magnificent B & B) 



Colosseum

One of my favourite places in Rome was the Colosseum and the surrounding area.....to see it in "real life" was incredible....

and my other favourite place was the Pantheon....I just love the dome of this amazing building

More Rome

On my second day in Rome, I visited the Vatican Museums and St Peters Basilica....I was amazed by the incredible artworks completed so so long ago....painting by Michelangelo on the Sistine Chapel was stunning....though I did find the crowds a bit overwhelming....I don't generally cope very well with lots of people...the photo above is just one photo showing some of the crowds!!!
Below: an internal garden area of the Vatican..

I seemed to develop a facination/obsession with taking photos of ceilings, floors, alley ways and doors whilst in Europe

Let the photos begin....

Now that I have my computer back and raring to go, I am going to post photos on this blog and also my main blog for you to have a look at....first stop (after Hong Kong)...Rome, Italy...and my very first glimpse of the Colosseum on my second day....the first day I just spent orientating myself (or should I say getting lost!)...I bought one of those hop on hop off bus tickets which gives you a great overview of  some of the main sights around any given city...

Passing by St Peter's Basilica...

Be back with more photos soon

Home and an update

Well,
I arrived safely back in Australia last Saturday night (late). It was lovely to be home and to catch up with my family and friends. I had an absolute ball in Europe and will DEFINITELY visit there again...there is still so much more I need to see!

I returned to work on Wednesday and it is nice to know that I only have a short week. Then the weekend and then i have next Tuesday off as it is a public holiday here in Australia....all for the occasion of a horse race! But do you hear me complaining? Not on your life!

I had hope to upload some photos from my trip, but sadly my computer decided to crash on Sunday....and it has been getting repaired since then...but I pick it up tomorrow...so hopefully I will get to pop some photos on my blog over the weekend...so stay tuned.

Thanks to all of my cousins in Germany for making my week there one to remember....it was wonderful to meet so many cousins and get to know them better...I truly felt the blessing of spending time in Germany...and a very special thank you to Rita and Alberto...who were very generous to let me stay in their home....they hold an extra special place in my heart! I hope to continue contact with some of my cousins...though I will see how I go with that as I am not the best at keeping in contact with people....but I am certainly going to make an effort.

Well, hope to show you some photos over the weekend.

Till then!

Auf Wiedersehn Deutschland.....hello home!

Yesterday was my final full day in Germany and full it certainly was...two of my cousins and their respective wife & husband drove me to Rothenburg ob Der Tauber about 2 hours drive from Frankfurt. It is a sweet village with lots of old houses and most well know for it's Christmas markets and huge Christmas chop and museum...sadly I only managed a short amount of time in the Christmas shop....and didn't see the museum. But we still had a lovely day and it was nice to spend time with a couple of other cousins. To finish off, we then returned to place the Family adventure all began with a farewell dinner where again, there were over 20 people. I must admit, by then end of the night I was completely exhausted and feeling a bit unable to talk much....so today I head to the airport where I catch a 2pm flight to Hong Kong and then on to Melbourne where I arrive Saturday night...am so looking forward to seeing all of my family and friends and sleeping in my own bed.
Hope you have enjoyed reading my travel adventures! Thanks for persevering Lisa

Over the next couple of weeks I will be putting some of my photos for your enjoyment!!!

Countdown to home

Well, the countdown is on until I leave Europe for home on Friday.
Today I spent with another cousin and one of her daughters and grand daughter. We went to a town called Aschaffenburg...another pretty town situated on a river with a castle to look at.
The castle had been sadly bombed during the 2nd world war, so there was little of it left standing following the war, but it has since been re-built and thankfully, most of the furniture and art works had been removed and stored safely elsewhere...so now they are on display in the re-built castle.
After this, we had lunch at my cousin's daughter's favourite organic restaurant which was really lovely.
We then wandered down the main shopping strip for a spot of window shopping and then headed to the other daughter of my cousin for a cuppa and chat. It was lovely getting to know more of my cousins and their children one on one.
Tomorrow I head off to Rothenberg Ob Der Tauber which I am very much looking forward to. Then in the evening we head back to the place it all began last week for farewell 'party" for Lisa! That is my cousins description, not mine! Then Friday morning I make sure I am packed and my check in baggage is 20 kilos...no more and no less! And then it is goodbye to Germany and all of the other wonderful places I have visited in the last 5 weeks.
Will write a final post after tomorrows adventures before I get on a plane bound for Hong Kong and then Melbourne.

Heidelberg

Today we spent the day at Heidelberg...one of the places I had read about and was keen to see. Didn't leave until after 10am so arrived around midday. Had lunch after a walk down the mail shopping mall where we were surrounded by lovely buildings...had a yummy lunch and then headed to the Schloss - castle....the walk up to the castle worked off our lunch...the hill was STEEP and very uneven...but the view from the top was well worth the huffing and puffing! We walked around the courtyard of the castle...unfortunately you could only look inside the actual castle if you bought a ticket for a guided tour...which I didn't really want to do...but it was still great...and we did have a look in the museum of pharmacy which was so interesting.
After this, we headed back to the town and had Kaffee un Kuchen...coffee and cake....I had the most delicious piece of hazelnut torte....it was so good...we then headed home....yet another lovely day with lovely people....my cousin, Rita and her husband, Alberto are so great to spend time with...this morning Alberto took me to the fire station where he was a volunteer firefighter for many years....he is so proud of everything to do with the brigade and station...
Tomorrow I head off with a different cousin and her daughter/s for a day where I am not entirely sure! I have been told one of the destinations, but cannot recall the name as it is VERY long....but will fill you in tomorrow...till then Lisa

Busy around Germany

The past two days have been busy seeing the sights around Frankfurt.  On Saturday evening we had a dinner at a traditional German Restaurant...the food was really lovely, although quite unblike anything I have eaten before...I was recommended to have this cheese dish which had hand made cheese, a more runny sort fo cheese, raw onions and butter and bread....I couldn't eat much as it wasn't unpleasant, it is more that it was way too much for one person...so the men at the table finished it off for me.  I then had the chicken which was also recommended...it was incredible....incredibly BAD for me....KFC...eat your heart...and arteries out....a whole half a chicken deep fried with amazing seasoning....with salad---then the owner of the place, when he found out I was from Australia, provided us all with kartoffle (potato)schnapps...or should I say fire water or as I decided to call it, Deutsch Vodka!!!  So so horrible.
Sunday we drove to a lovely town by the name of Gelnhausen...simply delightful with really old buildings, churches, streets.  We then went to a real castle....really well preserved and the amazing things about many of these places is that they don't charge entry fees....we then went to the most central point in Europe....basically in the middle of nowhere!  but really interesting nonetheless.
For dinner Sunday night we went to a famous schnitzel place which made the guiness book of records for making the longest schnitzel...the schnitzel was pretty good.
Today I was taken to a town on the Rhine River...Mainz...yet another beautiful town...from here we went to a town whcih I can't now recall the name...so I think I will end here and finish this off tomorrow....Tomorrow we are off to Heidelberg...
Back again....sorry I left abruptly last night...had just discovered that I was somehow able to use Wi Fi where I am staying...someone in the neighbourhood has not realised they should password protect their WiFi so that people like me can't use it!
Anyway, the other town we visited on Monday was called Ingelheim...my cousin Burkhards wife's family owned a 400+ year old house where her father was a professor in wine making. They are currently in the process of renovating this home...it has so much history and had a barn,so many old tools and wine making things....it was just amazing to see.
We then headed back to where I am staying for some supper and to meet the son and wife of another cousin...we had a lovely time as they both spoke excellent English and were just really nice people... I chatted on for hours.
Well, that was about all...I am hoping that this bonus Wi Fi Internet connection continues to work as I don't like to keep asking if I can check my emails...this way means that I can sit at any hour and play with my iPad!

Will fill you in on my day in Heidelberg later.

Frankfurt at last!

Late yesterday afternoon (Friday), I arrived in Frankfurt to spend the final week of my holiday with family....the plane was annoyingly delayed...and then my baggage took ages to appear....but finally I was on my way to exit...I walked through the gates casting my eyes for a familiar face.....and soon saw Alberto...whew...what a relief....but little did I know that Rita, my cousin and Lydia her sister and 2 others Manuela and Corinna would also be there to greet me....with a huge "Welcome Lisa" banner and a bittle of bubbles!!!!  Dinner had been booked, and our way to the restaurant, I was informed that there was to be about 40 people at dinner...Yikes...all to meet Aussie cousin Lisa.....well, it was so wonderful to meet 13 cousins of, whom I have only met 2 in the past!!!!  So fantastic to put faces to names I have heard over the years....and to put peple into context...we has a terrific night...to say I was overwhelmed would be an understatement....I so appreciate the warm welcomel I have been given...today Rita Alberto, Lydia (cousin) and her husband Benno have been into the city of Frankfurt and had a lovely wander around the main city where we walked across the River Main, to the local market, one of the main squares and also met a second cousin Tim and his partner Gina...we had fun chatting....the German English language is not necessarily easy, but I think we are managing....doesn't help that I left my English- German phrasebook in Melbourne!!!!
One of the highlights???? Not having to try and orientate myself and get myself from A to B...it has been lovely to be driven around...of course that is another experience completely!!!  Driving into Frankfurt was an experience in itself....driving on the Autobahn...where there are NO speedlimits....at one point Alberto announced to me that we were travelling at a speed of 200kmph.....yes people...you have read correctly....and Craig and /or Kieran....please don't give Mum a copy of this blog post until near the end of the week!!!!!  Thanks!!!
The family seem to have all sorts of things planned for my week, of which I am in the dark about most....but it sounds like I will be kept busy....Tomorrow I think we will be looking around the area where my Dad grew up, where my German Oma and Opa are buried, and may meet the widow of one of Dad's brothers who sadly has dementia and is living in a Nursing Home...but she did remember dad when she was told I was coming...so that should be a lovely thing to do.
Well, I shall finish off here...I think we are going for dinner locally in a little while....
Will try and update again, but not sure when....

Walking around Berlin

As I mentioned earlier, today I decided to do a walking tour around Berlin....well, it was the best thing I could have done. It was a 6 hour walking tour, costing 15 euros! The guide was absolutely brilliant...she is English, with her father being German. I felt she gave a very balanced commentary. The group comprised people from Australia, India, the US, Taiwan, Israel, Brazil, and probably another country or 2. We started off walking around to the old Jewish quarter...the account of what happened under Nazi occupation was horrendous....more than we ever hear...the guide gave a fantastic brief history of Germany pre and post the world wars and pre and post the Berlin wall. We got to see a few buildings which still stood following the bombings of WW2.. and the way you can tell? They still had bullet holes! Apparently after the war, in East Berlin, the repairs done to the buildings could be identified easily as they were painted brown...according to the guide, there were something like 17 shades of brown! The city has been basically re-built in the past 10-15 years...which has made the city broke.
We visited a few sites of the Berlin wall and the guide gave a history of this as well. We also visited "Checkpoint Charlie" which is apparently not at all real and basically a tourist trap/scam...getting the tourists in. We did however have afternoon tea near to this area and had a great coffee and apple strudel! We then went to the site of Hitlers bunker and where he and Eva Braun died (killed themselves). Apparently Hitler spent the last few years of the war addicted to a variety of drugs and was extremely paranoid. Another of Hitler's main men, along with his wife, also died here...and this was after his wife murdered her own 6 children. This area is now a very non-descript car park...as no-one in government has been able to agree as to what should be done...they don't wish to make a place where some people treat it as a shrine to Hitler, so the bunker is still intact, but it's entrances have been closed off...
There were numerous other sites we visited, including the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag & Government Quarter, SS & Gestapo Headquarters, Museum Island, the memorial to the murdered Jews of Europe, the Cabaret District of the 1920's, and too many others to recall...I am so glad I decided to go on this tour...
Met some lovely Aussies on this tour which was good to have company and people to chat to as we walked around.
Tomorrow I am off to Frankfurt to spend the next week with my cousins so I am looking forward to this time...then before I know it, I will be home!

Berlin

Here I am sitting having breakfast in the restaurant of the place I am staying in Berlin...it is called "The Circus Hotal". I originally read about this hotel months ago when I was planning my trip...a the time, i was unable to secure a booking as it was fully booked...such is the popularity and reputation of this hotel.. Anyway. About a month before I left I checked again and was able to get a room. It is known for it's sustainable philosophy, only sourcing local goods & services for it's. Breakfast buffet, maintenance and repairs. It also does not have mini bars or air conditioning in the rooms. Each room is decorated differently too. I already love it here. So today i am thinking I will go on one of the guided walks to give me. An overview of the city and history...it will take me to all the major places of historical significance including the Berlin wall site, and everything related to WW2.
so I will report back after what will most likely be a busy day of walking! See you tonight.

Chocolate, chocolate....and a just a little bit more chocolate

Well, this little town is THE capital of chocolate! Never have I seen so much chocolate in such a small area...yesterday I had my first taste of Belgian chocolate IN Belgium! For those of you familiar with Koko Black in Australia, they have a chocolate called Manon...well yesterday I saw a chocolate with the same name here...so just had to do a taste comparison...well, the two are pretty much on a par....but what I think I will need to do is buy some more to bring home and then buy one from Koko Black and try them side by side...anyone wish to join me?
Apart from the chocolate, yesterday I walked and walked and walked again....I didn't really look in any museums as quite frankly, I am a bit over paintings of Madonna and Child....but there was still plenty of photo opportunities to be had...I also went on a canal ride which was great to see a different perspective of the city.
Then I had a lovely dinner last night...after walking around in circles trying to find a place that was open or had a vacancy....
Later today I head off to Berlin, but I still have four hours to see some more of this lovely town...I think it is raining today....so maybe I will need to go visit a museum!
See you in Berlin.

Goodbye London and Hello Brugge

Well, I said farewell to London Town this morning...and after some delay with the "Chunnel" I finally made it into Brugge this afternoon.
But to give you some final updates on my last afternoon in Lomdon (where I am staying in Brugge has WiFi...!). So yesterday after I went to the V&A, I headed back to Harrods to make a couple of extra purchases for Kate and Tom....and then I headed towards the food hall...the toy department and food halls were the only parts of Harrods I actually went to! I could not believe how busy it was though....and as I went up the escalators to the toy dept, there was singing getting louder and louder...they had a woman singing opera on one of the balconies which overlooks the escalators...mind you, these are NOT escalators like we have in Oz...these were the Egyptian escalators...all themed in Egyptian...Molly Meldrum would love it! Talk about O.T.T! The other thing about Harrods, is the customer service...shop assistants in Oz could learn a thing or two from these guys...they all apologized for keeping customers waiting, they asked if there were any other areas of the store I would like to be directed to...I even got a free taste of a "Godiva" truffle as the young guy asked me what sort of chocolates l liked! Ha! I told him I liked any! Anyway, I got chatting to his supervisor who was delightful...this was the case throughout the store!
I didn't end up buying anything for dinner here....instead I decided to go for a walk near the apartment and found a nice little pub...so I ended up having the most delicious roast pork...with it came cauliflower, roast potatoes, mashed potatoes, beans, Yorkshire pudding, a great stuffing and apple sauce.....it was so HOT! and cost the grand sume of £7.95! There weren't many seats, so a young chap moved for me, and then he was going to leave me sitting at a table for 4 but I told him he was welcome to stay...he was delightful...we had a lovely chat...I must admit, I have had lovely meals in London...
So, back to Brugge...the B & B where I am staying is lovely, though I still haven't met the owners...they were kind enough to give me the code to the door and gave me directions for my room. I will meet them in the morning at breakfast.
So when I arrived, I basically went for a wander around the town...it is very pretty...already I have taken quite a lot of photos....not sure what I will get up to tomorrow....will see what they suggest at breakfast....one I have started doing is taking photos of all of the chocolate shops I pass....I am not kidding when I say that I have NEVER IN MY WHOLE LIFE seen so much chocolate...and whilst it is tempting to taste a chocolate at each shop....this would be BAD BAD BAD...so instead I will take a photo of them...the other type of shop in abundance here is the lace shop....the other thing I have notice is that Christmas decorations have started making an appearance in the shops...has this started in Australia too? Scary thought that it will only be 2 months until Christmas when I get home! Sorry to mention that to you all!
Well, I am a bit tired so think I might head off to bed...it is only 8.30pm Euro time and if I were still in London it would only be 7.30pm....what is with me?
Anyway, goodnight all and see you tomorrow...

I want longer in London!

I am really enjoying London....and only wish I had planned a bit longer here...there is just so much to see and do....today i have been to Spitalfields Marker which was fun seeing locally made handcrafted things. Then I gave spent the past few hours at the V&A museum...what a fantastic museum...so many interesting things to look at....but my feet are so tired that I have been really struggling with tiredness! So here i am again at my favourite WiFi haunt doing an update....am about to head to Harrods again for a spot more shopping...need to spend some of my punds before I head back to the good old Euro tomorrow! I actually really like Harrods and whilst there is plenty of stuff which costs a fortune, I visited a toyshop the other day with a view to buying gifts for my niece and nephew, and the same or similar things were actually less expensive at Harrods...plus their food hall is great so i think I will get something for dinner tonight....so, I will head off over the road to spend up!
Speak to you from Brugge...hope you've had a good weekend. Cheerio!
PS..thanks Chris and Craig and Kieran for your comments....and thanks Maureen for reading my posts!

Walking, walking, walking.....and a bit more walking!

I left where I am staying bright and early (8.00am!) as I wanted to find a post office to send a few things home...basically a whole heap of collected pamphlets, brochures I have collected on my museum travels....then I headed Towards Buckingham Palace as I thought I would check out the Changing of the guards....of course what I did NOT realize,was just how big an occasion this is! I was there quite early, so had a wander around, then went and checked out the queens gallery shop...didn't go into the gallery itself...then went and had a cup of tea....my first in the whole time I have been away! Then I made my way to the palace....well, in the space of 45 minutes, it had gone from having a few tourists wandering around, to full on masses, as in lining the streets... You couldn't even get a look into the grounds....the whole thing went for just over an hour....bu t I am glad I at least heard it. I did manage to see some of the guards walking down the street playing and marching as they went....from here I decided to check out Westminster Abbey...what beautiful church....and really interesting who is buried there....
From here I headed towards Liberty of London....it was MUCH further than I had anticipated...I seemed to have 3 different addresses for it and eventually found it....saw all of their beautiful lawn fabrics....had lots of other interesting things too.

So I have now found an cafe which has free wifi...mind you, I do feel obliged to buy a drink, but it is quite a pleasant setting...so thought I would update my blog....tomorrow I plan to get to the Victoria and Albert Museum...the whole reason I wanted to come to London...I just hope I am not disappointed. Then on Monday morning I am off to Brugge...the time seems to be flying now, but I am looking forward to coming home too!
Will tray nd update again after tomorrow. cheers.

Ps....apologies for any typos....I am writing this quickly and have decided just to post it without spell check!

Day 1 London

Today has sort of been a bit uneventful....I decided to purchase a hop on hop off bus ticket, as I have done in Rome, Florence and Paris...I think it was probably a bit of a waste of money as I have really found London a very easy place to get around...anyway, I went and checked out Harrods...a shop with serious eye candy...also stopped and looked at other landmarks along the way...Am currently in an internet cafe as I could not get my Ipad to work in a wi fi cafe today...it will be a quick post as I decided at the last minute to buy a theatre ticket to see Billy Elliott...so just killing some time before it commences. Tomorrow I will try and see Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace....already I am regretting not spending more time here....oh well, I guess I will just have to plan another trip...only 5 years til my long service leave!!!!

Well, I will make this very quick...hope to fill you in again tomorrow...Lisa

Hello London

Here I am in London for the next 3 days....have settled into the studio/apartment and decided to go for a walk to get familiar with where I am located...have managed to NOT get lost! Yay!
Am sitting in an Internet cafe enjoying a coffee and muffin....given that I have been awake since 4.45am and it is now 3.45pm London time, but 4.45pm euro time...I think 3 coffees was certainly in order....this is the most coffee in one day I have had in a couple of years! I may be bouncing off the ceiling tonight.
It was raining when I left Paris this morning and it is lovely and cool in London, though the sun has been shining through the clouds...the weather reminds me a little bit of Melbourne. It is also nice to be able to cross the roads without feeling you are about to be run over...there is certainly a familiarity about London which I am enjoying. The fact that people can understand me and vice versatile I am sure helps.
I had a pleasant walk to Coventry Garden through a couple of lovely little parks/squares...in one of them, I saw all these squirrels frolicking through the autumn leaves on the ground...they were soooooooo cute! I managed to get a few photos of them...though they were very quick, but one of them seemed to get closer and closer and popped it's little head up like he was posing just for me...somewhat was fun!
Not sure how much I'll be blogging in the next few days...will depend on internet access...I have been very spoilt with last place I stayed with computer, WI FI and free phone calls!
Well, I haven't much else to report

Au Revoir Paris!

Today has been my final day in Paris, and I must admit, I have grown to love this place...although initially I was not so sure....I was up bright and early this morning to go to MontMarte and Sacre Coeur Cathedral....yet another beautiful church, though in an area quite different to some the areas I have visited...it was much more gritty...a little bit like Footscray, but with French buildings....I discovered loads of fabric shops...mainly clothes, costume and furnishing fabrics....saw some lovely linens...but restrained myself...I have enough excess baggage to contend with!!!  I seem to have collected brochures from every museum I have visited..which are adding up in weight...

After this I headed to Laduree for a very special and classy lunch....Laduree has the most amazing cakes and macarons....they didn't allow photos to be taken...drats!!! although I did sneak a few before I was about to take a photo of the macarons and the guy told me no photos!!!
Lunch was delicious and very special.
I had a date with the Eiffel Tower at 4.00pm....so I arrived just on time and was ushered to the lift to wait for my ascent....I think within 5 minutes of arriving at the second level, I heard some familiar accents and ended up spending the rest of my time with a lovely girl from Melbourne...she had only arrived in Paris this morning and I think was feeling a little like I did on my first day....anyway, I ended up upgrading my ticket to go to the VERY TOP!!!!  I had originally decided not to do this as I had read and heard so many reports that it wasn't really worth it!  Well, I was pleasantly surprised...and spent quite a long time up there seeing the sights of Paris from yet another perspective.
We then headed back down to the 2nd level for a while and happened to bump into the couple I had met on Saturday from Vancouver....talk about a small world...it was such fun to meet them again.  We sat and had a coffee and croissant here.  Then it was time to go back down and we decided to walk down....oh how thankful I am that I didn't decide to walk UP...there were a LOT of stairs....and travelling the Metro here, you do go up and down stairs like you wouldn't believe!
So by the time we reached the bottom, it was almost dark so we went and sat on a park next to the tower and waited for the lights to start sparkling at 8.00pm...The did not disappoint, even having already seen them on Saturday...whe they started, there was a cheer from the crowd which was lovely.  Then it was time for me to come back to the apartment and get packed up for my trip to London tomorrow.

To finish up though, I wrote this prayer down which I saw in Sacre Coeur today..I decided to light a candle whilst there and think this is lovely....

A CANDLE
Lord, may the candle
which I burn be a light,
so that you may enlighten me
in my difficulties and in my decisions.

May it be fire
so that you can burn in me
all selfishness, pride and impurity.

May it be a flame
so that you may warm up my heart.
I cannot stay for long in your church
By lighting this candle
it is a part of myself
which I wish to give you.

Help me to continue my prayer
throughout all my daily activities

Amen

Been there, seen that, bought stuff!

Well, yet another busy day here in Paris....I decided not to go to Versailles....there were still a couple of museums/galleries I was keen to see here in Paris...I can always visit Versailles and Giverny (Monet's Garden) next time!!!
I did however have a fairly lazy morning as I did not venture out of the apartment until after 10am.  I had a nice chat with my parents which was good (hi Mum and Dad!!)
First up, I headed to the Museums' of Decorative Arts and Fashion & Textiles...Once again both these had plenty of eye candy to look at, though the Fashion Museum had a lot of stuff which in my eyes was a bit bizarre!  I also wonder whether I didn't actually see the whole gallery...anyway, there was plenty to grab my attention in the other...lots of furniture, ceramics, jewellery to inspire and stare at open mouthed....talk about opulence.
After this, I headed to the Musee Rodin...this was a very pleasant change as many of the scupltures were displayed outside in the gardens....made a nice change from traipsing (sp?) around indoors...The most well known sculture of this artist is "The Thinker", which was also set outdoors...I was able to get some really interesting photos of this.
I then headed to a shop recommended by one of my patchwork friends....Le Bonheur des Dames...this shop stocks the most amazing range of cross stitch and embroideries, many designed by the shop itself some patchwork fabrics and beautiful linens on which to stitch....it was especially lovely to see the shop assistants working on their various projects when not assisting customers....I took loads and loads of photos here...they were very gracious to allow me to do that...and have to admit, that I made a nice donation to the French economy whilst here!!!! I have possibly bitten off more than I can chew with my purchase...but when you see it you will understand!!!
Now as if I hadn't done enough by this time, I then headed back towards the other side of the city to the Montparnasse Tower for a ride to the 56th Floor and a view over the whole of Paris....you could then walk up another 3 flights of stairs to the 59th floor where you could stand on the roof top....was a fabulous view....and particularly fun to see the Eiffel Tower from a different perspective.  Tomorrow I am back at the Eiffel Tower for my trip up the tower....though I am only going to the 2nd floor....but I am thinking that I might stick around till dark just so that I can see its lights twinkling again...they were so beautiful last time!
Tomorrow is my last day in Paris...these past 5 days have gone so fast...and I am very thankful that I did venture out after my arrival day disaster of getting lost....I am loving the Metro Train System here....I have not had to wait any longer that 5 minutes for any train...it is so efficient...especially when I think of the Lilydale and Belgrave Lines back home and how there are trains only every 1/2 hour off peak....anyway, you will probably hear me praising the Metro a lot more once I return home!!!
Tomorrow I might try and visit Sacre Coeur and MontMarte....I don't want to overdo it tomorrow.
Till then, Lisa

Paris...a mish mash of activities

Day 3 in Paris and another day of visiting amazing churches and museums.  This morning I headed towards the church, Sainte-Chapelle on the little island in the middle of the Seine.  there was already a queue at 9.45am...though as I soon discovered, this queue was just to go through security....it is amazing the different levels of security each museum or church has....I think was extra tight though because Sainte-Chapelle is also right next door to what seemed to be local law courts or something similar....anyway....what an incredible feast for the eyes greeted me...you are probably familiar with many photos of this chapel as it has all stained glass windows around it....and an amazing Rose window....I have decided that I have enjoyed the churches I have visited throughout Europe, possibly mor ethan the museums, however, having said that I am about to contradict myself.
After Sainte-Chapelle, I headed to the Musee national du Moyen Age...that is, Museum of the Middle Ages...my main reason for this visit was to see the famous Tapestry, The Lady and the Unicorn.
Well, from the moment I walked in (no queues here!!!), I was absolutely gob smacked.  In the first room, there were a whole lot of fabric remnants from Tunics and other items of clothing with tapestries and embroidery on them...they were quite incredible.  Then amongst all the religious paintings and icons, there were small ivory carvings depicting all sorts of scenes, but a great many religious ones, and so many beautiful taspestries I could not believe my eyes.  having wandered around the whole museum, I exited and realised that I had not seen the Lady and the Unicorn Tapestry, though at one point I thought that I had...However I went back in and the guide directed me to where this tapestry was situated.....well what can I say....it wasn't just one simple tapestry, it was a series of 6!!!!  They are displayed in a round room with extremely low lighting and airconditioning....and STUNNING!!!!!  I would have been soooo disappointed to have missed these....textiles are definitely my thing!
After this, I decided to head towards the Champs Elysees for a wander....actually, I was keen to check out a very fancy Macaron shop which I had passed previously on the Hop On/Off bus, but hadn't walked around this area....oh my goodness....what shops!  I laughed to myself.....a chap I got chatting to on the bus a couple of days previously, had told me about this shop called Abercrombie and Fitch....apparently it is quite an experience in it...well, it had a massive queue standing out the front....it isn't even signposted what it is....I was briefly tempted to go in for a sticky nose....but didn't think I was dressed well enough.  Having said that, some of the people waiting to go in looked more casual than me....anyway...further up the road, outside the Louis Vuitton store was another great long crowd....It made me laugh...though I was probably no different when I lined up in Florence for a Gelato from "Grom"...said to be the best Gelato...not so sure that I agree with that....Anyway, I found the shop I had been looking for..it was absolutely beautiful inside...I have actually made a booking to have lunch there on Wednesday...my last day in Paris and the first time I will have eaten out...so I figure a little splurge won't hurt....some of the pastries looked incredible...I will at least have to get some photo's whilst I am there...
After this little explore, I headed back to the apartment quite early, compared to the last couple of days.
I have been trying to decide whether to go to Versailles tomorrow or to explore a bit more around the outskirts of Paris...I would really like to go up to Montmarte and Sacre Coeur...if anyone has an opinion, would love to hear it....there are still a couple of galleries I would like to see here in Paris, as well a couple of shops I'd like to check out....one being a patchwork shop and the other, and embroidery/needle work shop....anyway, will update you what I end up doing tomorrow...

Thanks for putting up with my ramblings!

Another full on Day...warning...it is very long winded!

I started today deciding to go to a market which was recommended by a friend from work...It is called Aligre and was quite close using the Metro System....I had such a great time chooing some great fruit and veggies, as well as a couple of pieces of cheese, some ham, salami and a baguette.  I was blown away by the prices of the fruit and veg....3 punnets of beautiful fresh raspberries for 2 euros, 2 large figs for 48 cents, 7 peaches for about 2.50, a tray of fresh dates for 1 euro...amazing.  It was great to be able to mingle with locals...one girl in a deli was very sweet and encouraging when I tried to pronounce one of the things I wanted to buy....she said I could speak french....I wonder if she was deaf??? Overall, my French experience is improving each day..
After the market I came home and put together some of the things in a baguette and took a picnic lunch with me to the Louvre....I was even more impressed when I showed my Paris pass and walked straight in without any wait whatsoever.....once in however, it was mind boggling...which way to go????  Even though there were hoardes of people, I didn't feel crowded at all....I simply wandered around at leisure, taking photos where I felt...it was nice to be able to take photos...though it does amaze me somewhat, where there are huge signs not to use camera flashes and not to touch the works, some people still do so....I found the Venus De Milo...just look for the crowds!!! which was quite stunning and also the Mona Lisa....hmmmmm....more crowds....I really wonder at some people and this is where  I think not being permitted to take photos can be a good thing.  All the people were doing were trying to get photos of themselves with the Mona Lisa, hardly stopping to actually look at the painting...and PUSHY!!!! Oh my goodness, I have never encountered such rude and pushy people EVER!!!!  One guy standing next to me actually asked me if it was the original....it was an interesting point....how do we know we are actually seeing the genuine painting???? Ooooh I love conspiracy theories!!!! 
I would have liked to seen the painting a bit closer, hoever it was not to be....not to worry, I enjoyed many other works much more than this anyway!  There was a painting of the Wedding at Canaan which was incredible...and so massive...I actually quite enjoyed some of the sculptures...I sort of whizzed through most of the Italian art area, as I had seen so much in Italy and was, quite frankly, over it!!!  I may return again tomorrow to see some of the other areas....in fact, I think I'll look on line to get some idea of what I would like to see.
Having wandered around the Louvre a couple of hours, I found some shade outside and sat and ate my yummy lunch.
After this, I headed over to the Musee D'orsay.....wondering if I was bitting off more than I could chew trying to see two iconic galleries in one day!
Well, what a difference...as I walked into the Musee D'Orsay, I went into a temporary exhibition called Beauty, Morals and Voluptuousness (in the England of Oscar Wilde)... I must admit, the title really did not inspire me to enter, however, I am SO glad that I did....it had so many things from the Arts and Crafts/ Aesthetic Movement, including William Morris.  It had some tapestries, furniture, ceramics (in my favourite Blue and White), and was altogether a feast for my eyes!!!  I spent ages in there and would have really loved to take photos...however they are not allowed in this gallery...which brings me back to my previous comment...I may well have just taken hoardes of photos without actually seeing what I was looking at....It was hard to draw myself away from this....but I did....and made my way throughout the rest of the gallery.  I didn't see much in the way of the impressionists....perhaps I walked past one of the gallery areas...it was laid out in an unusual way.  I did however see a whole lot of Vincent Van Gogh paintings...which were amazing...the colours he used I really liked....
After a couple of hours here, I caught the hop on hop off bus and went around the route again...I was going to do a few other things, but decided just to head back to the apartment and chill out....need to decide what I'll do tomorrow...might try and get to Saint Chapelle, back to the Louvre, and who knows what else!!!

Just for your enjoyment and a change of scenery, here are a couple of photos from my time in Italy...the first is me in the Colosseum.  The second is of the yummy lunch I had a a place called Cul De Sac...recommended by a friend from work...they were the best tomatoes I have ever had, up until the ones I bought today!  Sorry I haven't uploaded any more photos...it took an age for these to load.  I have been trying to load some photos onto Flickr.... once I have done this, will post a link if you're interested.

Till tomorrow, love to all, Lisa

Exhausted!

Well, it is about 9.30 here in Paris and I have just returned to the apartment having been out and about all day! First up I went on a hop on hop off bus tour....I decided to purchase a Paris Pass for this trip which includes free entry into many museums, art galleries and monuments....it included a 2 day hop on hop off bus ticket, a boat cruise up the Seine, 5 days public transport ticket, amongst other things. I had hoped to do a tour of the opera house which was included, however it isn't on until next week, so I went to a huge department store...Galleries Lafayette...WOW....what an amazing store....they had some interesting displays and every expensive brand of everything you could want. The best thing about it though was an amazing domed celling of glass...it was absolutely stunning. So aftehave sod some lunch here, I headed back onto the bus tour and went to the Arc de Triomphe...I went up to the top of it...what an incredible view of Paris..after this I headed to the Eiffel Tower for a look at it...I have already pre purchased my ticket to go up the tower on Wednesday....it was fun sitting underneath it doing a spot of people watching....after this I decided to do the boat cruise as I wa quite keen to see the rower after dark....well, standing in yet another long line, I met a lovely couple from Vancouver, Canada....so we ended up hanging out whilst waiting for the boat, then took the boat together. The boat trip ended up being at sunset which was beautiful....especially when the Eiffel Tower lit up....and then to top things off, at 8.00pm the lights all sparkled for about 5 minutes...it was absolutely spectacular! I could have sat looking at the tower for ages!
I even managed to get baxk to the apartment without getting lost. Yay! Actually, the metro system here is great...once you know how it works....coming home, the longest I had to wait for any train was 5 minutes...and this was with changing train lines about 4 times....
Well, will bring you my nextParis update tomorrow!
Au Revoir....

Paris

Earlier today I arrived in Paris from Venice.  The day started very early, getting up at 5.45am, got to airport at 7am and plane from Venice to Paris at 9.30am.  Arrived in Paris by 11.30am, but it took me over 2 hours to get from the airport to the apartment....first I bought the wrong ticket for the Metro (due in part to the unhelpfulness of the woman selling the ticket and me not speaking French), then I got lost big time getting to the apartment.....I have basically spent the day in the apartment....ventured out for about an hour to find a supermarket to get a few things.  Came back and did a load of washing, had a snooze and have generally been relaxing.  I must admit, I feel less competent in getting around Paris than I did in all of the place I went to in Italy....not sure what that is abaout....perhaps that Paris is just so huge...hoping I will get my MOJO back so that I can do some sightseeing tomorrow....
Not much else to report...hopefully will have more exciting stuff to share over the next few days...  

Bye bye beautiful Venice!

Well, I have said farewell to the beautiful lagoons of Venice....I am quite sad to leave this beautiful place....I would have liked at least another 2-3 days here as I feel I did not really get to see much of it....today I headed back to St Marks and decided to pay to visit the balcony area....well, I have to say, it was well worth it! The view was stunning and you got to see some of the mosaics of the ceiling up close and personal....all I can say is a big WOW WOW WOW! I can't begin to imagine how many tiny pieces of glass and ceramics were used to create these ceilings...talk about God given talent and creativity. There was also a museum area set up which had smaller articles of mosaics and marble sculpture. I also managed to sneak a few photos...strictly forbidden....but I was careful not to use a flash! Slap my wrist. I also snuck a few photos of the floor on my way out....I am totally enthralled by the floor! After this I went up some bell tower...I am embarrassed to admit that I have absolutely no idea of the name of it....all I know is that it offered 360 degree views above and beyond the city and had 4 huge bells which ring on the hour and that if you are up there, to cover your ears...I then headed to St Marks square and had a bite to eat...from this I caught a water bus to have a look at the Venice Biennale exhibits....hmmmmmmm some interesting stuff, some a bit way out for my tastes and some I felt a little too self-indulgent by the artists...it was a shame I didn't get there earlier as there was just so much to see... I then went back to the convent to collect my suitcase and headed off the island to the hotel where I am staying tonight so that I can get to the airport early tomorrow for my flight to Paris! Woo hoo. The hotel I am staying in is very very nice indeed....2 minutes from the airport with free airport shuttle bus...has the biggest shower head i have ever seen...what a waste of water...but I did indulge...actually,it is very well setup for someone with a disability...has the regular shower rose and also a hand held one, and the toilet also has a handheld shower to clean all your personal bits,as well as the stock standard Italian Bidet...I have been here 2 weeks and haven't been able to bring myself to use one! Dare I try it? Sorry about all that trivial info...it is the OT in me! In fact, it has been very interesting seeing people using wheelchairs, accorded, visually impaired and others with physical impairments getting around Venice. I found it difficult enough going up and down steps with a suitcase....mind you, the attendants on the water buses were very caring and helpful to these people.
Wel, I will stop boring you...stay tuned for my next post from Paris...now I need to stop saying buongiorno and start practicing bonjour...yikes...I just hope the French are as patient with this language illiterate as the Italians have been...till tomorrow...ciao, buonasera and arriverderci etc etc etc!

Colour, colour and more colour

Today I decided to head off shore so to speak to visit Murano (famous glass fame) and Burano...well the queue for Murano at the water bus was so long that I decided to go to Burano first....it was a bit of a lengthy process with 3 different water buses and a very long and round about way, but was very relaxing and picturesque...I especially enjoyed all of the water views along the way. Arrived at Burano which is most well known for it's brightly colored painted houses....well, just wait until you see the photos...what a pretty place...I spent a good 2-3 hours wandering around, looking at the houses, in jewelry, lace and other souvenir shops. The island is also very famous for it's lace....I visited the lace museum....I must admit, I think it was my favourite museum so far...just goes to show that my preference is definitely for the arts of the textile kind. After this, I went to Murano, mainly just to say i had been there....though there are some very interesting glass sculptures and once again, loads of glass shops.
After this I headed back to the convent where I have had a touch of gastro...not sure what from...anyway, took a gastro stop to nip It in the bud and am currently sitting here in the Piazza San Marco doing a spot of people watching and writing this blog post.
A message to Tan and David...I found your Trattoria, however sadly it seemed to be closed...oh well, will just have to find somewhere else to eat tonight.
Whilst it is still quite crowded here, it is actually very pleasant watching the sun setting and shining on the stunning mosaics of St Mark's. It is currently just after 6pm. One thing I'll say about Venice, is that there are soooooo many mozzies...I killed about 15 of them last night, although the bites didn't show up until this afternoon...and I think I have counted around 20, mainly on my arms....note to self...close bedroom window and turn of air conditioning tonight!
Well, that is about it for now...not sure what I'll do tomorrow....I have to go to another hotel close to the airport for tomorrow night as I have an early ish flight to Paris on Friday morning.
See you next time, Lisa

Venice

Well, I was up bright and early this morning having decided that I should go see Michelangelo's David...so off I headed toasted the Academia Gallery...was there shortly after 8am and already a queue had formed....anyway...I stood in line with a couple from Adelaide so that helped kill the time until 9.20 when we finally got in....I must admit, my visit was probably the fastest ever...but I am glad I did go as the statue is just incredible...I had to catch my train at 11.30am and had also wanted to check a couple of other shops near my apartment. So I went to this little paper shop which I had passed several times and they had some beautiful florentine paper for 20cents....and I bought some blue and white papers...surprise surprise. I made it to the station with plenty of time to spare and got my seat on the train....I had decided to go 1st class and am very glad I did...it was very comfy...those of you who read Facebook have already heard this bit....I am glad I claimed my seat quickly as there were some others who said they had my seat....anyway, I was there first and had my ticket so I stayed put.
Arriving at Venice was such a pleasant surprise....it was lovely to smell the sea air....I have spent the afternoon settling into the convent where I am staying and getting lost around the alleyways....I am staying really close to St Marks and had a very quick visit there this afternoon....the floor is absolutely stunning!!!!!! I wish we could take photos...I think I might go back and take my sketch book with me as I can see a quilt from it....the rest of the church was beautiful too, but it was the floor which got my attention. As I am writing this, there are church bells ringing not very far from the convent....the sun is starting to set and it is altogether a very pleasant place to be....I am loving the fresh breeze which I have been missing since arriving in Italy nearly 2 weeks ago....I can't believe that my time in italy is nearly over....I think in hindsight, an extra day in Florence might have been good...oh well, I will just have to come back again won't I?
Well, I might head out to find somewhere to eat....I have decided that the closer I get to Paris, the more expensive things are....I found Rome and Orvieto to be very reasonably priced and even Florence, but have noticed the prices here in Venice a bit more exxy....perhaps if I steer clear of the major areas...even the pashmina I bought in Florence for the grand sum of 5 euros, i have seen here for 13euros! So glad I saw it in Florence first! The other thing I have noticed, is that there seems to be a great many more French people here than I have encountered elsewhere....need to start learning a few basic French phrases.
Well, will chat again soon....I am looking forward to Paris where I think I might be able to put some photos up....
Till next time, ciao, Lisa

More of Florence!

Yesterday I spent a lovely day quite different to some of my others.
I was up bright and early for my 8.15ambooking for the Ufizzi gallery...what amazing art work...quite overwhelming really! Standing in the short queue to collect my entry ticket, I got chatting to a lady from Melbourne. We wandered around the gallery for a little while till we went our separate ways. I have decided that I am enjoying the moments which are a bit more unplanned...I can't say that I was overly impressed with the Ufizzi. Perhaps I have too high expectations. Anyway, after this I went and had a late breakfast/ brunch of fruit salad and croissant, and spent a lovely hour or so just people watching. There was a huge fun run in the city yesterday and there were masses of people in green t-shirts passing by.
After this, I headed back to the apartment for a bit of a rest before heading to the Boboli Gardens. It was another warm day so was good to chill out a bit before another big walk....though the apartment I am staying in is in the best location to everything! I walked to the Pitti Palace where the gardens are located. This weekend had loads of free entry to so many attractions....so I need not have pre-purchased my tickets...but at least I had priority entry which was a bonus from not having to wait in long queues. In the courtyard of the palace, these was a wine and music festival...the choir & orchestra was fabulous...then I heeded into the gardens...whew! So many steps....so i found a bench to sit and rest where I met a lovely couple from the UK so I chatted with them awhile. Then after they went, another delightful couple form Canada cam and sat down and we just hit it off....so I ended up spending the next few hours walking with them around the gardens, then the palace and then had gelato and a drink with them as by this time, the rain had started. It was lovely to walk around these places being able to comment and bounce our thoughts off each other. I think this is what I miss most about traveling alone....I am certainly not lonely, but it is so nice to be able to share experiences.
In the evening, I was very brave and took myself off to a trattoria for dinner. It felt a bit strange sitting by myself and I think the waiters thought it a but odd...but hey...why miss out on a pleasant dining experience just because you don't have anyone to share with you!
So today I am sitting writing this post waiting for a hop on hop off bus to take me up to the outskirts of Florence for something a little different...most of the galleries are closed today so it will be good not to feel pressured to overdose on culture!
Am sure I will update again soon...ciao
Oh, and I apologize for any typo's!

Florence...again!

It is amazing the things you come across when you least expect them. This afternoon I decided to walk into the main area of Florence just to get my bearings...and I managed not to get lost...this city is much easier to get around than Rome. As I was walking down one street, I could hear in the distance some drums and trumpets....the police were walking ahead clearing the street and as they did, a procession of people dressed in medieval looking costumes were walking...it was obviously some sort of celebration or occasion...anyway, a bit further along and driving down the road is a man with two huge white oxen with a huge trailer with bottles of chianti piled high...a bit further along a chap on a tractor also had masses of bottles of chianti, but with him, people were buying the bottles....so all I can assume was that it was some harvest celebration of the first batch of wine for the season...who knows!
Anyway,a bit later there were all these horse drawn carriages and in the front was a bride and her groom, behind them some of the guests. As they drove throughout town, the people on the street clapped....
Now to the silliest thing I have done this trip so far....upon the recommendation of a friend from work regarding the best gelato, I decided to locate the said shop and the queue was unbelievable...however in the interests of taste testing, I too got in line...it was very nice, although not sure i haven't had just as good....perhaps I need to try s different flavour tomorrow!

Florence!

Have just arrived at the apartmentj I am staying in Florence. It is so lovely and the owner gave me a bottle of sparkling and some yummy looking biscotti. What hospitality.

The past couple of days were spent working on our art work and last night we all got together and showed each other what we had done. There has also been a photography group staying at the convent so we sort did a show and tell of each others art....was a lovely way to share our creativity, no matter how different.
For our final dinner last night we returned to the restaurant where we had a our cooking lesson...where we were very graciously waited on. I had a delicious salad with lettuce, pear, walnuts, cheese and the best dressing I have ever tasted. For my main I had chicken rolled with red peppers, wild fennel and small potatoes....also delicious. I also tried Limoncello...an italian lemon liquor...it was very nice, although one would not wish to drink too much of the stuff.
This morning we did one final scout around the town and had our final cappuccinos at Scarponi's..my favorite coffee spot and said our goodbyes to the Nuns' at the convent and caught the funicular to Orvieto train station where I have come to Florence, a few others were heading on to Venice and another back to Rome.
I am looking forward to what discoveries I make here in Florence for the next few days.

Ciao

Another incredible couple of days!

Well, the past 2 days have just continued on from the rest of the week with wonderful experiences. We spent much of Wednesday in the studio working on our collages, although we did nick out for a wander around town looking for more inspiration. Late in the afternoon we had a tour of one of the amazing underground caves for which this town is famous for....a bit of history: Orvieto was first inhabited by the Etruscans (we are talking 3rd to 6th century BC!) contemporaries of the Greeks. Thirteen Etruscan cities occupied the middle of Italy. In Orvieto they dug caves for food and water storage, making wine & using the excavated stone for building construction. The city sits over hundreds of caves.

Today we spent the morning at the local market buying things for lunch. After lunch and some more studio time, we were taken to the most stunning vineyard off "the rock" of Orvieto- Palazzone where were had a tour of the vineyard and winemaking areas and then a wine tasting on the patio of the most stunning B&B....there we tried 3 different wines with a selection of Italian savouries. I think I could have stayed there for a week...the views across the Umbrian hillside were stunning.

I can't quite believe that tomorrow is our last full day here in Orvieto....but I am also looking forward to heading to Florence for what will be another completely different experience.

Hoping you all have a great weekend.

Lisa

Master chef!

Have had the funnest time this afternoon. Spent most of the day out and about and in the studio doing some sketching and playing with water colours. Totally out of my comfort zone.
Then this afternoon, went to a local restaurant which also has the "Instituto di Arte Culinaria" where we made focaccia (with tomatoes, mozzarella, olives and olive oil!), a different focaccia with onion and mozzarella, wild boar ravioli with tomato sauce, wild boar stew, deep fried zucchini flowers in beer batter, wild boar and pecorino calzone and coffee yoghurt gelati with raisins. Well, what can I say, except that this was some of the best fun I have ever had....after cooking all this scrumptious food, we sat down in the restaurant where the staff served it to us.....along with some fabulous wine, we had a ball! I am so inspired to try some of the recipes we were given when I come home...brace yourselves!

Orvieto day 2

Yesterday was a full on day becoming acquainted with this beautiful town. We woke up to a delicious breakfast with choices of cereal, fresh fruit, yoghurt, bread, home made jams, meat and cheese. After this we went for a great long walk around the town to familiarise ourselves so that she don't get lost in our explorations....the one consolation is that if we walk too far in either direction, we would actually fall of the edge of the town!!! We had our first coffee at a local cafe where the Batista greeted us all with a kiss on the hand....so charming....after this, we walked past the shops selling a wonderful array of leather handbags, gorgeous paper shops and the most beautiful ceramics....might have to find a small pics of blue and white as a little souvenir. We then headed toasted the Duomo or cathedral...what a stunning building...oh how I am looking forward to being able to show you some photos. We then went into the crypt of the Duomo where there was a body with a glass window to look at....hmmmmmmm!

Following on from this we were left to wander by ourselves a bit before heading back to the convent for our lunch. The nun's had prepared a truly delicious meal of fresh cherry tomatoes, some filled with bocconcini and with fresh basil, following by the yummiest bean soup with crispy brad, then a plate with a selection of pickled veggies, cheese and marmalade, and then after all of this yummy-ness, a cake soaked with Limoncello and fresh cantaloupe....
After lunch we met for our first studio session where we were given our supplies for the week and we made a start on some of the techniques we would be using.
At 4.30 we met and walked to a local enoteca where we went underground to have a wine and olive oil tasting, along with more tasty morsels of food to match the wines. We tried the Orvieto Classico, a light white wine which the area is famous for, then a rose and finally a red....sadly I can't recall the names of these other wines!

We then took another walk to the oldest medieval part of the town...and finally back to the convent where once again, we headed our for guess what....more food!!!! This time we had the company of a woman who was originally from the US, who married an italian and has lived in the area for over 50 years. She shared some wonderful stories of her time here and judging by the reacion of the locals, she is well loved....being well into her 80's she was amazing.
After a delicious pasta meal, I headed back and had an early night....
I am now just about to head off for breakfast.
Bye for now!

What a night!

Morning
It is around 6.30am Monday here in Orvieto...what a night we have had overnight...from the relentless heat of the past few days, last night was the most spectacular and scary thunderstorm here in Orvieto. After a wonderful dinner where I tried wild boar (was so delicious!) and a relaxing stroll through the town with the rest of the group,we could see the sky with lightning in the distance. I don't think I have ever seen anything like it! But it is so refreshing to have some rain and a cool breeze blowing. I am looking forward to seeing what the day brings.

Orvieto - Umbria

Well, I have finally arrived in Orvieto...my stay for the next 6 nights...I am loving this hill town already...wait till you see the photo's...it is also going to be nice to be able to spend some time in the company of others...and one's who speak English!

The convent is lovely and the rooms quite modern...I have the most beautiful view over the countryside...and the windows are letting a glorious breeze...something I have missed the past days in Rome.
Well, I think I will head out and have a bit of an explore...we meet for introductions at around 6pm before heading out for dinner...am looking forward to experiencing my first Umbrian meal. Ciao. Lisa

Another full on day in Rome!

Well, am just back from another busy day...though I have tried to take things a bit slower by sitting and watching...first off I went to the Pantheon...what can I say but WOW!!!! what an incredible building....can't wait to show some photos of the things I have seen...before this however, I had a coffee at a place recommended by friends which is just opposite the Pantheon...thanks Tan and Dave...it was GREAT coffee! I then decided to have a decent lunch at a place a colleague recommended which was somewhat a walk from the Pantheon, but well worth it....just walking down some of the streets and alleys of Rome was inspiring....I think I have overdosed on taking photos of buildings...but there isn't a lot to do when there is no one to take photos of moi! For lunch I had a selection of 2 cheeses and meats, as well as a mixed salad and glass of white wine. Well can I just say, that the tomatoes in the salad were THE BEST EVER!!!! They were so sweet, all I wanted was a whole plate of them! And the meats and cheeses were simply divine...I decided to be brave and have the waiter choose for me as I really had no idea, looking at the extensive list...my only stipulation was nothing with blue!

After lunch I walked to the Trevi Fountain...it was extremely crowded as to be expected, and I eventually asked a couple if they would take my photo throwing a coin into it...I then went to the water outlets and drank some of the water....I must say, the water here in Rome is really lovely...wasn't sure what to expect after being spoilt by Melbournes water...well, tonight is my final night here in Rome...I must admit, I am looking forward to the next leg of my trip to enjoy some other peoples company for a few days...whilst I am not lonely, I am missing people to chat to about shared experiences.
Will post again when I arrive in Umbria tomorrow...till then, Lisa. Ciao

The Colosseum

I am writing this at 4am Saturday Rome time! Due to the fact that I got back from the colosseums so exhausted that I slept for 3 hours so of course, now I am wide awake! I spent most of Friday morning on a tour of the Colosseum...it was incredible!! The tour took us to places that the general public aren't permitted to go due to restoration works taking place. We went into the bowels of the Colosseum as well as the very top....I was there very early as they had strict instruction to be there at least 1/2 an hour as they do not wait....it was fun just sitting in the cool shade of the Colosseum watching the souvenir vendors setting up their carts, the "gladiators" getting ready for the photo opportunities they provide all the gullible tourists....I didn't get sucked in to this! And seeing all the crowds gather at the main entrance...I was so glad I had pre-purchased my ticket. I took so many photos I am going to be such a bore when I get home! I think I enjoyed this better than the Vatican.
Afterwards, in an attempt to work out how to get to a restaurant a work colleague had recommended, I spent ages trying to work out which bus to catch....the buses here are another thing all together, as well as the traffic! I have never seen such wild driving, and yet, have also nor seen one accident...and the way people park is quite amusing...the cars are all generally small, there are lots of the smart cars and they park in the smallest of spaces.
I did eventually find the restaurant and by this time, I was quite famished...had the yummiest selection of salads which you basically just picked out, they put on a plate and weighed up...then you paid. After this I wandered around some of the laneways and shops which were amazing. I then headed back to the apartment where I had my sleep....at 8pm I headed out and bought myself a gelati...lemon of course....there are gelati shops around every corner and they have the most amazing selections....I tried a fig flavour too which was really good. Having bought this, I headed back and took my self to bed...

Well that is it for now....I might go back to sleep for a couple of hours before getting up for todays adventure...am hoping to find my way to the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain....

Love to all...Lisa

The Vatican

Well, you will be pleased to hear that I managed NOT to get lost at all today. I visited the Vatican which included entry to the Vatican museums and Sistine chapel. Afterwards I looked through St Peter's basilica....WOW..what amazing art, architecture and inspired workmanship...I think I especially loved some of the architecture, particular taking loads of photos of ceilings and their frescoes.

It was quite late when I got back to my apartment and it has been 32degrees so I was somewhat warm. One of things here is how after work, lots of people take to the streets with their families and so tonight I went and bought myself a gelati and sat in park near my apartment which had a cute carousel, jumping castle, train and men playing bocce. There were parents, their children, and nonna's all enjoying each others company.

After this, I decided it might be a good idea to make dinner...there are a couple of small supermarkets nearby...so I bought myself some fresh tortellini, zucchini, passata, 2 yoghurts and a nectarine...which all came to the grand sum of 2.80 euros....talk about the cheapest meal ever...and I still have enough pasta and sauce for another meal....

Tomorrow i am heading off to the colosseum for a tour...I have already been past it on the bus tour...am looking forward to taking some close up shots and seeing the inside of it...

Till next time,

Lisa

Rome

Rome is my first stop on my journey to Europe....and I have plans to visit the Colosseum

and the Vatican

More importantly, today is my Dad's Birthday...so a big HAPPY BIRTHDAY to you Dad...sending you all my love from over here!!!

First day in Rome

Well, I have arrived safely in Italy and have nearly spent my first day in Rome. The weather has been glorious, though very warm in the sun. Met a lovely New Zealand lady on the plane and so we were able to help each other get the train from the airport into Termini Station...I decided to get a ticket for a hop on hop off bus which takes you around all the major sights/ sites and you basically get off, look around and then catch a later bus to go to the next place...I mainly did this today to try & get my bearings around this city....Quite a challenge...managed to walk for over an hour first thing, only to realize that I had basically gone in one hug circle and nowhere near when I had thought I was going! Oh well, it can only improve.

Well, that is it for today...I shall put my feet up and try and reduce the swelling from the flight and all my walking...as well as try and get rid of blisters too!!!

Tomorrow I am off to the Vatican...

Off I go!

Hi everyone,
I have set up this blog to primarily keep my family up to date with my travels around Europe...and to let my parents know that I am OK!


I am unsure how often I will be updating it...will all depend on Internet access...but hope to write a little something every few days.


So call back here after the 13th September for regular updates.


Chat then, Lisa