Oh how I wanted to sleep in this morning.  I woke up to the sounds of someone banging around in the kitchen.  It was not very pleasant.  I tried to lay in bed and rest but I wasn't very successful.  My plan today was to catch the sightseeing tour bus I had purchased with my train rail pass.  I wasn't sure where it would stop.  There were two routes: A and B. I thought I'd try B first because it was longer.  I went to the stop they indicated oh ...

I'm awake and ready to hit my next destination:  Florence.  I sometimes feel like I'm on the Amazing Race!   Rushing from one location to the next, competing in challenges and makibg my way through the crowds of people.  The train was smooth and some beautiful scenery as we passed through  the little towns.  The forecast is rain all day in Florence.  Sigh!   I'm hoping it is not so bad.  I think I'll get the Firenze Pass which gives me ...

Last night I took a stroll around Venice to experience the city at night. I was amazed at how few tourists there were roaming about.  I walked along the water's edge and came across the Santa Maria Della Salute. This church was build because of the plague that killed thousands. On November 21 every year, Festa della Madonna della Salute, the city's officials parade from San Marco to the Salute for a service in gratitude for deliverance from the plague. ...

I slept well and woke up early to get sorted for the day.  I double checked my ticket and accomodation information.  As if you can't tell by now, I like to be organized.  The clouds broke and it's a beautiful 10 degrees in Milan. There's a crispness in the air but it's refreshing.  The full day of rain makes you appreciate the warmth of the sun even more. I just wish it was like this yesterday. I quickly made my way to the train station withou...

It rained all last night and I didn't want to get out of bed this morning.  It is going to be one of those days.  It will most likely rain all day.....so the forecast says.  Begrudgingly, I got out of bed and prepped for the day.  I had some breakfast at the hostel and made may way into the pouring rain without an umbrella. I walked as close to the edges of the buildings so I wouldn't get as wet.  I made my way to the metro, about a 15 minute walk. ...