POMPEI

With a heavy heart I left Rome. I wanted to do more shopping, but alas my train was leaving at 11:45am. So off I went to Pompeii. Land immortalised by ash, until it was dug up for us to discover.

I got to the town and couldn't find any clues as to where this giant archeological site was. It looked like a normal town to me! Finally I asked someone and she was kind enough to point me in the right direction. Off I went to discover the ancient world. It was a ten minute walk from the train station and I could store my bags there. So boom, in no time I was off exploring old stuff. And loving it! The first part had hardly any people in it. I took a couple sweet pictures with my camera, thanks to the timer. You'll have to wait til I have computer access to see those!

I eventually made my way to main street. And that's where the really good stuff was. It was still another hot day in Italy, so I tried to stay in the shade when I could. I can't believe how well preserved this stuff is. It really is amazing. I watched some archeologists working, it was cool to see how much care they took. That's why we have what we have today. The walls were still painted, so well kept. About half way through my wandering I remembered I had a Rick Steves audio guide. So I pulled it out and listened from the beginning. I learned a lot of the peoples lives. I saw Mount Vesuvius itself, the volcano that started it all. Apparently its still active today.

The one part I especially wanted to see was the cast of the people that were caught unaware when the volcano exploded. I know that may sound a bit morbid, but I was really curious. I listened to the part where Rick explains where they are like a thousand times trying to find them. Alas, I came to the conclusion that they weren't there. Which is alright, there was so much else to see,  that though I was a bit disappointed I certainly didn't regret coming. Cause it was still really cool.

There were so many places I saw. Their main square, the bath houses, markets, and I even saw a brothel. Apparently there was a lot, maybe that's why the volcano erupted on them? I also saw some restaurants and gardens. Big houses and small houses. My favorite part was probably their theatre (surprised?). It was cool to see how even then they had cheap seats and the more expensive seats. I wonder if they did rush tickets back then? In the Colosseum I learned that their tickets were pieces of tile with the seat written on it. Pretty nifty I thought. I'm curious to known if they had a similar system there. They had a big theatre and a smaller one. The teatro piccolo<-I love the name!

This was near the end of my wanderings. I only had the amfiteatro left, aka amphitheatre. This was like their Colosseum. It was way on the other end, but I wanted to see everything. I'm sure glad I went. They (modern Pompei-ians) had a wooden pyramid right in the middle of it. Apparently there was a photography exhibit. In I went, and there were all the bodies they had cast and recovered. I got to see them after all. It literally took my breath away. Because all of the sudden, everything I just saw became real. These were real people with real lives. Lives that I got a glimpse of that day. There were adults and children and I stood and thought about their lives. I was alone in there for a while just thinking about them. It was a good way to close out my trip to Pompeii. After that I left.

Walking through the modern town of Pompeii I really enjoyed it. They are a super cute town, lots of locals out and about. I got yummy gelato, raspberry and peach, it was amazing. Almost tied with the Lindt store gelato. I'm going to miss this stuff. I caught my train to Napoli. The ride along the coast was quite pretty. I loved it. I would like to explore Sorrento next time I come, I hear its even prettier. Next time!

I navigated to a new hostel for the last time in Italy. It started out alright, but I still got lost near the end. I found it. I had enough time to grab pizza. The receptionist showed me on the map where her favorite place was. I decided to check it out. On the way I passed a nice quiet spot by a castle. I got to her fave pizzeria and there were tons of people there and no where to sit. So I turned around and went back to the quiet place. And it was wonderful. I got La Duchessa, a pizza with cream, mozzarella, ham, basil, and corn on. It was so so good. And it was huge! But since its been so hot, and I've been so cheap I've been skipping lunch just cause I'm not hungry. I eat a giant (free) hostel breakfast and then I'll eat dinner. So this made up for it, it was amazing! New life goal is to recreate it. When I get home its all Italian food experiments. I will learn how to cook!

Country #4: Vatican City

The day started with me trying to find St. Clement's church. It apparently has three levels into the ground and you can see how it was built upon through the centuries. But I got lost. And it closes from 12-3. Boo. So I found another church instead and it was big and lovely and I never wanted to see that other one anyway! Just kidding. Eventually I found where I was, which wasn't even close to St. Clement's. I think I was close at one point....all well. From there I took the train to the Vatican.

Not only did I want to go to the Vatican because of its art and history and stuff, but I wanted to add another country to my trip. And considering my timeline, this worked perfectly! I had heard that on Wednesday mornings the Pope makes his address to crowds in St. Peters Square, and so lines for the Vatican museums weren't as long. Well I didn't realize that the Pope is in South America right now, so that wasn't going to work. I also heard that afternoons are better than mornings when waiting in ridiculously long lines, because people start to give up. So that's what I decided to do. I'm strong. I won't give up. I would stand in that line until I literally baked on the sidewalk.

I got off the train and headed towards the Vatican. I must've had at least 5 people ask if I wanted to join their tour group. I finally stopped to listen to one guy and found out that it costs €50 to take the tour. 'Yeah right!' I thought. Considering the normal price is €16. Once I got close a guy standing close to the queue asked if I got my tickets yet. He said you had to buy them across the street. I didn't know where to buy them so I thought he was just being helpful. I should've known, when he started talking about how this way is much better cause then I wouldn't have to wait in line, which will take at least 2 hours. And I wouldn't be able to see St. Peters basilica at all because I'd run out of time waiting in lines. Then I asked if he was selling me a tour, and he said yes. But he would be kind and give me a discount. Curious, I asked how much of a discount it would be. €4 off! What a bargain! Ha. I then told him I would take my chances and wait in line. Good choice on my part. To all those tour-selling-nay-sayers, I say poo poo! I practically walked right into the Vatican. The security line took me maybe 5 minutes! And then I was in. I'll admit there were tons of people in the first part of the museum. I reckon it was kind of like  being in a really fancy cattle drive, assuming the people are the cows. It kind of smelled like it...but there was a whole lot of fancy art to distract from the cow-like herding. And the further in I got, the more people spread out. I think I was the only person there without an audio guide or a human guide. But I liked being able to read and enjoy the pieces I wanted to. I took my time. There are some exquisite pieces in those museums! I'll post a picture of one of my favorites, mostly because I think its funny. It might have deeper meaning, but I just chuckle when I see it.

At the Vatican all museums lead to the Sistine Chapel. The highlight, by far! Here I thought I was going to have to wait in line, but once again I just walked right in. I don't think I have a four leaf clover stuck to my back, but the way things keep working out isn't convincing me! The Sistine Chapel really is amazing. Absolutely breathtaking. If you haven't been, put it on your bucket list. I had an audio guide from Rick Steves for the chapel, and was very glad. There were so many little tidbits of info that I found fascinating. He even squashed some rumors that I heard people saying right there in the chapel. Like for example, it is rumored that Michaelangelo painted the while ceiling on his back. But according to Rick, and his Italian co-author he actually painted it standing up. I feel more inclined to believe him, since everything else I've heard from him seems to check out. I also heard some varying stories from tour guides in the Colosseum. Perhaps I should just be a tour guide, I'll just listen to Ricks guide right before and then I'll be good to go! Anyways, back to the Sistine. There are tons of people in there and every five minutes a guy gets on a loud speaker and says "SILENZIO!!". But I was able to block that all and focus on the amazing work of art. I'd like to meet Michaelangelo one day and just chat with him. I imagine we'd be able to have a good chat. I would like to know if he had a chiropractor. Did they even have those back in 1508? Regardless, the work really was astonishing. I spent nearly an hour in there alone. Well, not alone. You know what I mean.

After I left the chapel there were a couple exhibits before the exit. Hardly anyone was in there. It was a lovely visit! I was then ready to head to St. Peters basilica. That line took all of 7 minutes. Oh those tour-seller-nay-sayers. I proved all of you wrong! And kept my moneys. When you first walk into the basilica, the sheer size of it literally takes your breath away. It is incredible. Absolutely blows my mind. I have no idea how they were able to build something that grand. I also had an audio guide for this. I didn't really like the deceased Popes that were displayed. But I thought Michaelangelo's sculpture of Mary holding a crucified Christ was so incredible. He captured so much emotion. I like how he said that he didn't just see a block of marble, but saw what the sculpture was supposed to be and freed it. Okay he said it much more eloquently. Maybe if I remember I will Google it before I post this. Still amazes me. 

Having avoided the intense afternoon heat by being inside, I had much more energy than the previous day. I literally sat down for a total of 5 minutes that day, from leaving in the morning to coming home at 10:00pm. I walked on over to the Pantheon. And saw where Raphael is buried. I also had yet another audio guide from my friend Rick Steves. Seriously, he should pay me for all this advertising I'm doing for him. Since my new favorite gelato place is right by the pantheon, I HAD to get some. Dipped cone, with gelato flavors white chocolate cherry and black forest. This time however I stayed in the air conditioned store to eat it. As opposed to madly trying to eat the whole thing before it melted, my minute to win it game. Think the show would pay me for that idea? Is it even still on?

Next I headed to the iconic Trevi fountain. Where everyone goes to make their wishes come true and ensure their visit back to Rome. I got there and......it was empty and covered in scaffolding. I actually laughed out loud. There was a big protection window surrounding it so you couldn't get too close. But people were still throwing coins in, so I thought 'what the heck!' And dug out a penny. My only stipulation to the coming back to Rome part, was that it be a little cooler next time. :) It was funny to hear other peoples reactions when they got to the fountain.

One guy to his wife "Well hun. This is romantic isn't it?". Said very sarcastically.

A little girl to her mom:
Girl-"Mom, where's the fountain?"
Mom-"Its right here sweety. That's why people are throwing coins in."
Girl-"Where's the water? Don't fountains have water?"
Mom-"Yes usually. But this one doesn't."
Girl-"hmmm...."

Haha that's the truth. I hear you little girl. I headed from the 'fountain' and started to make my way back. Shopping and such on the way. I got a giant cone of French fries, I realize they're not Italian. But they looked soooo good! And they're an Amsterdam company, so still foreign. I was originally going to get a medium, then I saw the size of a small and changed my mind. It was huge! I couldn't even finish it. I got back to my hostel and visited with my hostel mates. I like making friends. And its so neat being able to connect with people all over the world. This travelling thing is addicting! I need to do this all the time!!! Maybe I'll become a nomad and instead of travelling for 3 weeks at a time, I'll come home for 3 weeks at a time. Once or twice a year perhaps. I just need to figure out how to fund this....

Are you not Entertained?!

I met a lovely Italian lady from Milan at the end of my perfect day in Cinque Terre. Her name was Francesca. And we had a good chat. She said I should go to Capri. Which I will have to add to my itinerary for next trip! Cinque Terre ended in the morning with me buying a peach and this delicious walnut pie pastry thing and eating breakfast on the rocks by the beach. Perfect. Then I got one more cone-o-fish and happily sat and ate it. I went and put my feet in the waves one more time and then it was time to catch my train.

I had to go to La Spezia first then catch another train to Rome. It was delayed, but I have a really good book. So I didn't mind. *Everyone should read 'The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Spciety' if you haven't before, its amazing!* My train to Rome has compartments and so it reminds me of Harry Potter. Except instead of fellows students going with me to Hogwarts, its a bunch of old Italian ladies. They must be the professors...

I got to my hostel in Rome, the directions said it was on the first floor. I could see no reception desk, then Rick Steves' voice came in my head saying in Italy the first floor is our second. So up I went. Thanks Rick! I watched a ton of his travel DVDs, got his book, and downloaded is free audio guides for Rome before I came. Quite a helpful fellow. Travelling? Just consult Rick. He'll help you out.

If you didn't see my Facebook status here it is. Literally one of the BEST nights of my life!

I JUST HAD AN AMAZING NIGHT!!!! And the amazingness continues! I got to my hostel in Rome at about 7:40pm, I got out my map and was looking at what was close to my hostel that I could check out tonight. I noticed the Teatro dell'Opera was only three blocks away. That's cool, I'll Google to see if they have anything showing. Oh its opening night of Madama Butterfly, but it probably started already (it was after 8) and it only shows this one night while I'm here. Wait it starts at 9! I can make that. So I throw on the only skirt I brought and run out the door. Even though I'm gross and sweaty from travelling all day. I hadn't eaten all day, but Music>Food. I get to the Opera House only to see a couple talking to the ticket lady, who in broken English was explaining that the tickets were at a different place. I pulled out my map and she showed us where to go (they were fellow Canadians). Luckily the train station was close and it wasn't too many stops away. It was 8:28, so we decided to go for it. The fellow Canadian lady was much less equipped for a sprint across Rome than I was, but we made it to the subway and got off at the right stop. Turns out this opera is actually out doors on a stage built up in front of roman ruins! I went to see if there were the cheap tickets left, and the lady gave me a deal! I asked if there was any €25 seats left, and she said yes. But would I prefer a €20 seat in row 12, as opposed the very back row? Ummm yes please!! I was grinning like a fool, until the ending... Its completely unreal! I can't believe I watched my first Opera live, in Rome, outside under the stars, in front of ancient ruins! I wish everyone was here with me!!!! THIS IS SO AWESOME! #myspinsteradventures

End status. It was incredible! Words can't describe. And I was sitting behind a former director for the company (so cool!!!), we had a nice chat. He was thrilled I enjoyed it. I knew the general storyline for Madame Butterfly, but had never seen it before. Luckily they still had English subtitles so I knew everything that was going on. The emotion these performers had was incredible. And the end I bawled and bawled. I had to not think about it too much when I was talking to the director or I might have started crying again. I was so moved by this performance. And the set was incredible! Did I mention they drove a car across the stage? Seriously, highlight of my life. Now I'm obsessed with the show. Big time.

Leaving I was walking on air. I can't believe it all worked out. I headed to the subway station and...its closed. So apparently it closes at midnight. Didn't think that would happen. Okay, how to get to my hostel without walking or taking an expensive taxi. Bus seems like a good option. I was totally unprepared for this since I was planning on taking the subway. Sooooo find the bus stop, figure out which one goes to my stop, and wait. Finally it came, but had no where to pay. So I got a free ride. It was my night. Got to my hostel without a hitch. And since then I keep thinking about my amazing night, and how lucky I was to get to go to that amazing production. And that everything worked out perfectly.

Next morning I woke up a bit later due to my late night. Ate my hostels free breakfast (I had four mini pieces of toast with nutella) and headed to ancient Rome. I'd heard many times that lines for the Colosseum can be crazy long. But if you buy your ticket at Paladine Hill or the Roman Forums, it includes entry to the Colosseum. If ever in Rome, heed this advice! It makes a huge difference. The line was short at Paladine Hill and in I went. It was another scorcher, so I moved slowly. Luckily they have 'courtesy water' spots all over the place so you can fill your water bottle. I'd be a dead woman without these. Later in the day I overheard a man say that he should have brought his water bottle, and he hadn't drank anything all day. This was like 5:00pm! I wanted to go up to him and say "excuse me sir, but how are you not dead?". I made it through Palatine Hill and the Roman forums, but it was rough. I probably should have sandwiched them with a museum visit in between. So much sun. There's a reason I was born in Canada. Before I came I downloaded a couple free audio guides by Rick Steves. Its free and super informative. I had full out walking tours thanks to him. Check them out people!

After the ruins I hit up a museum, mostly for the air conditioning. They actually had some neat displays. This one Chinese artist has an honorary degree from U of A, he was featured. And when I saw that in the film I got super excited! The museum led to the roof where a gorgeous church is. Beautiful! And then the view outside was wonderful too! I felt more like myself too having regulated my heat. I walked and explored around that area. And then decided to head to the Colosseum. My favorite of the day by far! It was so cool and big! And it blows my mind that it was built over 2000 years ago!! With Rick Steves' walking tour I was in the know. Quite an interesting time. And now I want to watch Gladiator. Ave Ceasar! Also I think a movie should be made about the Vesitbule Virgins. Guardians of the eternal flame. They lived in style for 30 years then got to marry. I think it would be super interesting, they could totally Hollywood that up! Anyways, Colosseum was amazing. Oh and I just walked right in cause I already had a ticket. While the fools in line had to wait an hour. Even though literally across the street you could also by a ticket. Now you all know!!

I then decided to head towards the Pantheon for some foods. The rule in Rome is, generally if the restaurant has pictures of their food displayed, its a tourist trap and the food ain't that good. Dig a little deeper and you'll get the good stuff. I had pizza for dinner and of course gelato for dessert. But the most amazing gelato ever! Lindt chocolate store. Dipped waffle cone in chocolate and hazelnuts, with white chocolate and black forest gelato. Quite possibly the most delicious thing ever. Except eating it in this heat proved to be more like a 'minute to win it' game. It was a melting time bomb. I raced against the clock and got most of it in me, only a couple drips as casualties to the roman streets.

Then my long walk back. I was dead by this point. My legs and feet protested. I hadn't stopped at all the while day, not even for lunch. So I was tired, and dirtier than an actual Roman from their high point in history. Okay, maybe the soldiers were cleaner than me, but I was dirtier than one of their slaves. I got back and realized I had major heat rash all over my legs. And maybe my cut was looking a little infected....geez Rome. Luckily my new friend at the hostel gave me some neosporin, which I think helped a lot. Here's to healing!!

And now my bed is calling.

My new favorite place: Cinque Terre

This place is amazing! Its hard to convey how beautiful it is. The Cinque Terre is a group of five villages all along the western coast of Italy. They've been around for hundreds of years, built into the cliffs. There aren't cars there, though I did see the odd bus/garbage truck. But for the most part you either train or hike between the villages. Each one has a beach too.

I arrived in La Spezia and then went to find the bus I could take to my hostel. It was light out, so much easier to find this time. Plus the directions were better. While waiting there I met two girls also heading to the same hostel. They were from Australia. Then two more Australians joined us. All of them were very friendly and we had a nice visit on the way up. One of them asked what it was like to come from the country with the best reputation in the world. How do you answer that? Well, I said it feels pretty good. Haha let's hope they never meet a mean Canadian!

We arrived at the hostel and as soon as we got in the door the owner asked if we wanted to go to the beach. The public bus was leaving in five minutes and we could store our stuff and check in later. The hostel shuttle would pick us up at 9. Since I only had one full day, I jumped at the chance to enjoy the evening there as well. I went with two of the Australians and a girl from NYC. I sort of wanted to be best friends with the NY girl so I could stay at her house for free, but we just weren't kindred spirits. Though they were all very nice. We went straight to the water. It wasn't your typical beach. It had big rocks and so you kind of had to scale them. We realized later that there was an easier entry a little bit further down, all well. I was so happy to jump in the water. It was perfect for a hot day. Not long after we were all enjoying the lovely scene the NY girl got stung by a jelly fish. Yes you heard right. We didn't know for sure it was a jelly fish, but she seemed alright. Then they decided to head in and one of the Australians got stung. Now we knew. See, we happened to be swimming out in the deeper water, which I guess is where they hang out. We got out of the water, in the process I cut my leg. Not bad, but it looked pretty sick. Haha. They decided to hit up a pharmacy (farmacia) to get some ointment for it. I opted to stay and hang out at the water, laying on the warm rocks and taking in the beautiful sites. Before long the water was calling me again. So I hopped on in. Not five minutes later, ZAP. I got stung by a jelly fish. Just like that. On my left arm. Bad Squishy! So I got out of the water. Maybe I should have just gone with the other girls after all. But it is a pretty cool story, and even though it hurt, it left a pretty sweet mark. Dude those little jelly fish creatures are crazy! I don't know how they do it. Its almost electric. My souvenir from Riomaggiore! Yay!

After my electrifying dip I went to explore the village. It was super cute. I found a take away place called Tutti Fritti, at first I thought it said Tutti Frutti like my fave fro-yo place. But it had fish pictures, so obviously not the same. Unless they did fish flavored frozen yogurt there, which I was pretty sure they didn't. But what they did have was a ton of little deep fried seafood pieces. I decided to be adventurous and get their random mix, a 'cone-o-fish' as I called it. Since it came in this big paper cone thing. Deep fried calamari, anchovies, shrimp, cod, and mussels. Turns out its like the best thing ever! I had to close my eyes when eating the anchovies and shrimp so I didn't have to see them looking at me when I ate them. They keep the heads on them. Eek. For dessert I got a giant peach, that wasn't pretty but tasted amazing. Then after taking in the sunset I headed to where the shuttle would pick me up. Met up with the other girls, and they shared their ointment with me for my now very red and swollen stung arm. Yay for new friends!

The next morning I was up and ready to go, especially after the church outside our hostel rang its bell 85 times. Literally. I counted. At 7:00am. I thought it was hilarious. Other people in my room didn't. I ate breakfast at the hostel and caught the shuttle down. The drive itself is beautiful! I caught the train to Monterosso where I was going to meet up with my dear friend Lisa Martin and her fiance Derek. I wore my swimsuit since we were planning on hiking and since there's a beach in each village, I planned on beating the heat by jumping in to the ocean each village. This turned out to be a great plan since regardless of ocean, I was in a constant state of wet.

I found Lisa and Derek and we set out for the first trail. After getting gelato of course! We updated each other on everything that has happened in our trips thus far. They've been to Barcelona and Venice so far. The first trail was pretty hard. Lots of steps. Apparently its the longest trail. We got to the next village, Vernazza, and I went straight for the water. It was a lovely beach! Not too busy and no big rocks or jelly fish. After our dip we sat and had a cold drink. I got a strawberry Italian soda. Yum!

Then onto the next trail. It. Was. A. Beast. Plus this was about 1 in the afternoon when we started, and it was 40°c. We were climbing stairs almost as big as me. Maybe not quite that big, but close. At the top, the view was incredible. So cool! I luckily was alive in my solid form (barely as I almost melted) so I could enjoy the moment. And try and take it in. After what seemed like many miles, and in reality was only 3.5 km, we reached Corniglia. The highest village. We found water, shade, and a restaurant. I got an entire margharita pizza. And slowly I came back to life. The food was delicious! I could go for some right now. Lisa and Derek got some bruchetta that I sampled, and it was maybe the best thing ever. Second only to my cone-o-fish. After taking our sweet time to eat and relax we went and explored some of the shops. I bought a whale shirt. I like it. But I didn't try it on cause I was too sweaty. I wasn't planning on really buying souvenirs, aside from chocolate, but Cinque Terra is taking my moneys. Too many cute things!

We decided to head to Riomaggiore to explore. We walked to the top of the village for the view and just sat there in the shade for a long time visiting. It was great. I was very happy to be there with my friends. We found a small little church up there and it was empty. So Lisa and I decided to do a duet from our choir days together in Kokopelli. Sweet Spirit it was, since we couldn't remember anything else we both knew that didn't need more parts to sound alright. Haha. We sounded awesome. The acoustics helped. It was cool especially since five years ago Lisa and I came to Europe with Kokopelli choir, and then stayed behind on our own and toured more to Germany, Switzerland, and Paris. We always said Italy next! So it was really awesome that our itineraries aligned and we were actually able to meet up.

The day was nearing a close and Lisa and Derek were heading back to their hostel. I caught the train and got out at the one village we missed, since the hiking trails are closed between Corniglia and Riomaggiore. I said goodbye and then went to scope out Manarola. I really liked this one. There was lots of cliff jumping into the ocean there. Which, had I not been so worn out I would have tried. But I just sat and watched. And I was happy to be exactly where I was, exactly at that time, at the end of a perfect day.

Life is good.

A Canadian Girl Sweats in Venice

The title pretty much says it all. Hot. So much heat. My flight was delayed many times after we boarded. I slept the whole time, so I didn't mind much then. Finally we took off. And when we arrived it was just getting dark. Then I remembered why I had booked an earlier flight, so I wouldn't have to navigate to my hostel in the dark. I knew it was tricky to find ahead of time, which is why I wanted light just to be sure. It was a nightmare to find. The info they sent out wasn't up to date, I relied on many helpful Italians to continually lead me in the right direction, which were answers to prayers. Then I had to walk a long ways to the actual hostel from the bus stop. Too long. I got lost multiple times, and finally found it. I was exhausted. The night security didn't understand that I wanted to check in, since reception was closed. Another good soul helped me out again explaining to him. I got to my tent, yes a tent with bunk beds in it. Did I mention this was my cheapest hostel by far? Yeah now I knew why. Already occupied by two sleepers, who smelled....bad. It was very hot too with no ventilation. I resigned myself to making it through these two nights, and buying extra gelato with the money I was saving.

I made it through to morning, I didn't sleep too bad actually. And then I was ready for Venice. Luckily the hostel has a shuttle to Venice so I didn't have to figure out public transit going the opposite way. But they don't tell you how fast it fills up. So I had to wait an extra hour, since the 9 am shuttle was already full. I was a little peeved. But ate breakfast and read in the shade. Not a bad thing.

I got to Venice and was blown away by the old beauty. Its very touristy right at the beginning but I didn't have to go far to discover the places where hardly anyone was. I loved it! This is where people lived their lives. This was their everyday! It was beautiful. And my favorite part of Venice.

The moment I stepped off the bus I was sweaty. And pretty much stayed that way all day. Its too bad my sweat is salty, otherwise the copious amounts of pigeons could have bathed in the pools of sweat that drained off me. I made it to San Marco square, home of St. Marks basilica. And I also had my first gelato. It was grand. I continued exploring and started looking for some sort of shade. The sun was frying my white girl self. Even though I had put sunscreen on, I didn't bring it to reapply. Rookie mistake.
I found a little art walk in a park that had shade. I had a short nap on the grass and when I woke up the guide lady said I couldn't lay on the grass. Oops. So I moved to a bench and watched a pigeon come right up to me. I was so taken with the pigeon that I didn't realize I had ants crawling on my feet. The pigeon started eating the ones on the ground, which is what made me realize eventually. Otherwise I would have had more bites. I had lunch in this park, since I loved the shade.

I did more exploring along the coast then decided it was time to go in St. Marks. On my way back I found Vivaldi's church. Where he composed many of his works. There used to be a girls orphanage behind the church and he would teach them music and they would preform in his concerts. I found it fascinating! There was a concert that night and I so wanted to go. They were performing Vivaldi's Four seasons in that church, but it was so late the idea of taking the public transport again made me cringe. So I decided to just listen to the music they had playing in there while I sat for a time. Vivaldi makes me think of my preschoolers, cause we talked about him a couple times while I was teaching him. Its so cute to hear 3-4 year olds say Vivaldi! I also caught a music museum later on that had so many instruments. It was beautiful. And free!

I went through St. Marks basilica. They made you buy a scarf if your shoulders or your knees were showing. Modesty for a win, no extra moneys for me! I thought the basilica was stunning. When I got out I saw people standing up on a walkway tight below the roof. I wanted to do that! So I waited in line again and paid my €5. Turns out there was a museum up there too, so well worth it. Especially since the basilica is free otherwise. And I got to look at all the mosaics around the church super up close. I loved it.

After, I decided I would wander and find the Rialto bridge. But reading a map in Venice doesn't help me. Its one big maze. I ended up on the other side of the city. The side I needed to be on catch my shuttle. But I figured I'd have enough time to find it and return. Luckily there were signs leading all the way there. All the way turned out to be further than I anticipated...and finally got there. With just enough time to snap a picture of the side of the bridge (I didn't even see the front of it) and run back to the Pizzalle Roma, where my shuttle would be. I had the fear that I would miss it and have to take public transit again fueling my steps. And I made it in plenty of time. Now I can say that I saw the Rialto bridge.

Back at the hostel I planned to go swimming, but they were having a wild pool party. So I opted for bed instead. The two smelly sleepers were in the same spot as when I got in last night and left in the morning. I don't know if they even moved....but I do know that I certainly contributed to the smelliness this time. I stunk. I opted to shower in the morning since I figured sleeping in there would taint my smell anyways. Might as well save the freshness for the people on the train. I'm so considerate.

Great Britain: part 1

I landed at London Heathrow and then waited an long time in line to go through customs. A long time. But its all good. Finally made it through and headed off to adventure. Not before finding many pamphlets for their west end theatre shows. Yes, I will be going to as many of those as possible. I hoped on the tube and headed to Victoria station. Before getting on my next train I went up and explored a bit. I found Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and of course the Wicked theatre. And I headed into Victoria station. It was a very hot day. Especially since I just came from Iceland, where the high had been 15°c. Double that and you got London's weather. I just missed my train when I got there, then it kept getting delayed and cancelled. I was becoming a grouchy bear, especially since I had my heavy back on. Finally after waiting 1 1/2 hours I got on my train to head to my friend Nefer's house. In the village of Billingshurst. She gave excellent instructions and once the train arrived (another 1 1/2 hours, due to delays) I headed to her house. It was so good to see her again. It has been many years since we graduated high school and saw each last. But she's such an easy person to talk to it didn't matter. We talked a long time.

The next day I slept in, seriously I am fighting this jet lag thing. On their recommendation I went to Arundel Castle. It was stunning! Arundel is a lovely little village, with the castle set on a hill. I went straight there and in I went. Because it is a ways from London it wasn't very busy. I liked that. I could take my time and take everything in. It was fascinating to see how they lived and imagine what it'd be like to be there in years past. The family that owns it still lives there, in a wing of the castle not open to tours. The Duke of Norfolk, who has been and still is in charge of coronations to this day. I saw every part I could. In the grand hall I noticed a framed picture of a dinner scene from "The Young Victoria". I asked and it turns out that movie was partly filmed there. I got kind of excited cause I really love that movie. If you haven't seen it, you should. It has Emily Blunt and its great. One of the guides at the castle actually got to be an extra in the movie. They were all proud of ole Roger. Made me smile. Anyways, all of the people there were incredibly helpful and eager to share little bits of information with me. One man showed me where a secret room was and I was intrigued. Another talked about a statue replica of the Saint of Music. Apparently the original is in Rome and I intend on hunting it down.

After exploring the castle I went and adventured in the gardens. They were breathtaking! I got so caught up that I didn't realize they closed. So a worker took me down the hill in a cart, just to ensure I didn't get locked in. This castle was definitely bigger than Downton Abbey. If you ever get the chance to visit, I'd say take it!

I then set to explore the village. It had a giant cathedral, and luckily it was still open. I was all by myself in there, so I sang. Quietly cause I wasn't sure if it was allowed. But I did it anyway. And it made me happy. Incredible acoustics. I continued around the town, and got lost. Even though this little place its easy to find your way back. I got fish and chips and went and enjoyed them by the river. Absolutely a perfect day!

I went back and enjoyed visiting Nefer again and this time meeting her cute little daughter Larena. We had fun reliving lots of mission stories and stores from High school. Good ole days.

Thursday July 2, Nefer suggested I visit Brighton since my flight to Italy left at 4:35, I didn't have a full day. I thought it was a great idea, and off to Brighton beach I went. They have no storage containers, so I had my big backpack on the whole time. But I emptied some of it out back at Nefer's, cause Italy is supposed to be very hot while I'm there. I liked seeing the ocean and all the fair like things on Brighton pier. It reminded me of Coney Island. Except instead of sand the beach had little pebbles. Which made for a fun sound whenever the waves were retreating. I had enough time to grab lunch and head back to the train station. Then I was on to the airport and off to Italy!

Iceland

My trip began from Edmonton. I got through airport security with no problems and then waited. My friend Jeanie from choir was actually on my same flight. So we visited for a while. The plane was through the night, and never got dark. I slept for about 30 minutes. Then not really again. At one point the sky was divided with purple on the bottom and light blue on top. The moon was so bright! And it was beautiful! I saw the icebergs as we flew over too, which was really neat. And then Iceland came into view. What a beautiful country! Before I even landed I could see it out my plane window and got so excited. It did not disappoint. I got in at 6:40am and got through customs without any issues. Then I caught a shuttle bus to Reykjavik. Once in the city a smaller bus me to my hostel. The people there were very nice, and it was a great location. Hlemmur Square, I recommend it! I ate breakfast there and then went exploring. Reykjavik is a very bright city, lots of brightly painted houses. It was really quite lovely. I saw this church, the name I don't remember. Nor could I pronounce. Most Icelandic words actually I was pretty hopeless with.

After exploring I went back to my hostel to await pickup for my horseback riding/whale watching tour. They were supposed to come somewhere between 12:30-12:50. I was there at 12:10. But here's the thing, I was a tad exhausted/jet lagged from my all nighter. So I dozed off. I awoke with a start at 12:35. Now potentially they were there in those five minutes and I didn't hear them or they forgot to pick me up. Either way I started sweating a little bit, because this tour was a big reason I decided to go to Iceland. Luckily the receptionist was super helpful and called them. They sent a taxi to get me, which they paid for. So maybe it wasn't my fault? Anyways, I was off to ride cute small strong Icelandic horses. It was pretty awesome. Because I had been riding many times I got to go in the fast group with Stormy, a gelding with speed on his mind. It was great. The countryside was so gorgeous! Right now there a purple flowers all over the place. Fields and fields of them! It was a good two hour ride and I got to visit a lot with the guide who was from Sweden. Everyone I met in Iceland was incredibly nice!

After the ride they took me straight to the docks. I boarded a ship and put on my super warm full body floatation suit. It insulates and floats! Good thing for Icelandic boat rides. I was crazy excited. I even brought my binoculars from home. I was set! I was giddy with anticipation. I sent out lots of good vibes so that I would see a whale. It took a little bit, but finally we spotted our first minke whale! And then many more. It was soooo cool! We also saw some dolphins. When waiting in between sightings there was one point where I was kneeling on the front deck and full out fell asleep. Dude jet lag got me. But I perked up quickly when I heard a sighting. Then I was good for a while again. It was a three hour tour. Iceland is just so beautiful!

Back at my hostel I got to my dorm and almost fell asleep instantly. Before I took out my contacts or locked up my bag. I daily remember doing those things.

The next morning I was trying to figure out what to do. I was planning on going to the blue lagoon, but didn't prebook and all the spots I could male filled up. So I went exploring around Reykjavik and found a bike rental place. This was great! I got to ride around the entire Reykjavik peninsula, all along the coast. I saw lighthouses, and so many kinds of birds and other beautiful sights. With the mountains in the distance. I got a bit turned around for a little, but got back on track and found the thermal beach before I had to head back. The eater was so warm, and just down from it was cold. It was crazy! Next time I'll bring my swimsuit cause they have free hot pools there too. I sped back to return my bike and got to my hostel just in time for my shuttle to the airport.

I got to the airport sad to be leaving. But it was all for naught. Apparently they overbooked the plane and asked if I would be willing to stay another night, where they would cover my room, transport to and from the airport, three meals, and 400€. I didn't have to decide long, especially after hearing the 400€ part. That would more than cover my whole Iceland experience. Tours and all. Woot! And I got to spend an extra night there. It was like I won the lottery! So I headed back to the city and checked into my own hotel room. Seriously the fanciest part of my trip. Its going to make the rest of my hostels seem not as cool. Haha. It was a harbor view room with a balcony. The staff were so kind. And the food was amazing! Iceland is not cheap. So when I got to order any two things on the menu, I went full out. A delicious flat bread pizza with grilled chicken, avocado, peanut butter hummus, seeds, parmesan cheese, and more fancy stuff I don't know the name of. It was a taste sensation! A celebration on a ....flat bread! Next I got their famous fish soup. Made from fresh catches of the day. So much flavour. Tomato based with just the right seasoning, and lots of pieces of shrimp and other delicacies. To go with it was a bread and dip, this fancy olive oil marinara sort of dip. Had it been appropriate I would licked out the bowl. I got as much as I could with my bread.

Then it was off to the blur lagoon. I was happy to go, since I hadn't gotten a chance earlier. It was a bit of a trip away, but quite lovely. I didn't get too long in there since I had to catch a shuttle back. But I got a solid hour. Enough time to give myself two face masks, go in the steam room, the sauna, stand under the waterfall, and float around for a bit. The mud is supposed to have healing powers, but I think it made my skin worse. That or I was sunburned. Regardless I am glad I went. It was very relaxing. Back at my hotel room I enjoyed the view and the luxurious amenities. Thanks to the sun never setting, I didn't go to bed until much later than I anticipated. Especially since I had to wake up at 4:30 the next day. I regret not taking the afternoon flight when asked earlier on. But it was too late to change that. So three hours after going to bed I was up to go to the airport. They gave me a lovely packed lunch since I would miss breakfast and I was off. I ate and admired the landscape all the way to the airport.

My flight went without a hitch. And I slept the entire time. Next stop: London!