Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Wine, Cheese, and Romance...
From the language, to the street alleyways, everything about Paris screams romance. Whenever I would hear people speak of Paris, it's was always with such passion and followed by an expression of desire to return. In my head I couldn't quite picture what the city would look like. I imagined lots of baguettes, the Eiffel Tower and people who hated Americans. It's not the best impression but I still knew despite my stereotypes, Paris was something I needed to experience.
As our travels usually start out, Katie and I continued on our journey with high hopes that everything would go smoothly from Milan, Italy to Paris, France. After a lovely 3 hour train ride through the France countryside, I watched corn and sunflower fields line country homes. We arrived in Paris and immediately hopped on the metro toward the Montemarte district where our hotel was located. traveling by one of the best transportation systems I've ever seen, we were an easy two stops to our hotel, Hotel de Flore.
Located on a quiet street, we checked in and found a decent sized room, two twin beds (pushed together, it's always a fun slumber party for Katie and I), a bathroom, and a balcony that mirror other lofts and hotels. Nothing fancy but very functional . It was our home for the next 5 days.
After relaxing for a little, Katie and I decided to do what we do best, figure out our dinner plans. We walked the streets of Mantemarte to find fresh fruit stands, cheese shops, bakeries, restaurants, and bars. Within our first few hours in Paris I had already noticed a trend of people walking around with bags of baguettes, most with the tops teared off and eaten. This is one of the things I found most wonderful about Paris. Everyone was lays on a mission, baguette in hand. It seemed that everyone had their own baguette story. Some walk alone, maybe on their way home from work, others walk hand in hand with 3,4 or 5 baguettes,for their families. I love the lifestyle of consuming only what you need, some fresh produce, a baguette, wine, and the company of loved ones is a part of a Parisian's everyday.
katie and I wanted to join in on the fun and got an array of delicious French snacks including brie cheese, a pasta salad, vegetable couscous, a fresh baguette, red cherries, and a bottle of wine. We then continued on back to our humble home, and sat with our Terrance window open. As we ate and looked put over the gorgeous, quaint, city, we talked about our traveling day, and all the things we would like to see in our Paris days to come.
That next morning we woke up ready to conquer . During the booking process of our hotel we had read on trip advisor of a creperie just across the street that was wonderful, so we decided to check it out. We walked into a small homey, restaurant, greeted by a charming older French man. Not knowing any French besides Merci, I was curious to see how difficult the language barrier would be. After looking over the menu, and only being able to make out every 5 words, the older French man came to the rescue. He explained their lunch specials and the many crepe options for the day. The meal included one savory crepe, one sweet crepe, and a coffee, I decided on the tomato, cheese, and mushroom crepe, followed by a chocolate crepe and a coffee. It was amazing!
The rest of our day included site seeing and wandering the city. We started off with seeing Notre Dame. It's massive gothic architecture,and stain glass windows were something out of a brochure. I couldn't believe I was actually standing in front of such a gorgeous, historic piece. It's city's surroundings also is what makes it indescribable. Cobbled streets, the seine river, and historic Paris, tops it all.
Each day in Paris was a new and exciting experience. In the morning we enjoyed fresh pastries,and enriching espressos. During the day we would walk and wonder the streets witnessing Paris and all it's history. Although each moment in Paris could has it's own story, there are a few that rank my favorite.
The Louve, Luxembourg park, and the Eiffel Tower. These three, enchanting and unforgettable, definitely rank as my top three favorite places ( this far) in Paris. The Louve was full of statues and artwork that I remember studying when I was a senior in high school during Mrs.Rowans honors humanities class. I couldn't believe the detail, and complexity of the pieces. I can't wrap my head around how massive some of the artwork is. How renaissance artists could construct paintings with heights and widths talking up whole rooms is beyond me.
Luxembourg park is not your average park. A park is an understatement for this attraction. The flowers, trees, cafes, and people that flock are a site to see. I felt like I was in a fairyland. Katie and I walked through the paths and sat under the trees with others carrying on an assortment of activities. Playing music instruments, writing in journals, an elderly couple chatting, kids laughing and playing, picnics, and doggies. Surrounding the park people enjoy the blue skies and breezy air.
A metro ride, connection to the rer ( another way to get around Paris, like a tram), and a short walk, Katie and I were standing in front of the romantic Eiffel tower. We took a spot on a patch of grass that sat directly to the right of the gorgeous structure. For our midnight picnic, we shared a few desserts, glass of champagne, sliced apples, and a fresh baguette. The sight of couples lounging and friends laughing under the tower was one to be sought. Every few hours the tower is all lite up like a Christmas tree, twinkling lights cover it and flicker. Paris , lights and the Effie tower is the epitome of every chick flick, love song or romance novel I have ever read. Although Katie is my soulmate, and PIC, I couldn't help but wish for my one and only, Karl. To be able to share these moments with loved ones endlessly heightens them. In that moment I felt thankful and so blessed.
Meeting new people, speaking different languages, no matter how educated you are, experiences are all around. I would over hear mothers and daughters talking, and sharing stories and although I didn't understand the French they were exchanging, I could imagine what they were discussing. Probably the same conversations my mom and I would have about love, friends, boys, school and fashion. A couple near by holds hands, smiling at one another in complete love. It reminds me of the same feelings I exchange everyday I'm with my love. I see kids running with each other, being playful. I can picture my niece Nixon close behind them, playing a chase game or antagonizing the boys. It doesn't matter what country your in, or the language you speak... It's all relative. And it's all an experience.
As our travels usually start out, Katie and I continued on our journey with high hopes that everything would go smoothly from Milan, Italy to Paris, France. After a lovely 3 hour train ride through the France countryside, I watched corn and sunflower fields line country homes. We arrived in Paris and immediately hopped on the metro toward the Montemarte district where our hotel was located. traveling by one of the best transportation systems I've ever seen, we were an easy two stops to our hotel, Hotel de Flore.
Located on a quiet street, we checked in and found a decent sized room, two twin beds (pushed together, it's always a fun slumber party for Katie and I), a bathroom, and a balcony that mirror other lofts and hotels. Nothing fancy but very functional . It was our home for the next 5 days.
After relaxing for a little, Katie and I decided to do what we do best, figure out our dinner plans. We walked the streets of Mantemarte to find fresh fruit stands, cheese shops, bakeries, restaurants, and bars. Within our first few hours in Paris I had already noticed a trend of people walking around with bags of baguettes, most with the tops teared off and eaten. This is one of the things I found most wonderful about Paris. Everyone was lays on a mission, baguette in hand. It seemed that everyone had their own baguette story. Some walk alone, maybe on their way home from work, others walk hand in hand with 3,4 or 5 baguettes,for their families. I love the lifestyle of consuming only what you need, some fresh produce, a baguette, wine, and the company of loved ones is a part of a Parisian's everyday.
katie and I wanted to join in on the fun and got an array of delicious French snacks including brie cheese, a pasta salad, vegetable couscous, a fresh baguette, red cherries, and a bottle of wine. We then continued on back to our humble home, and sat with our Terrance window open. As we ate and looked put over the gorgeous, quaint, city, we talked about our traveling day, and all the things we would like to see in our Paris days to come.
That next morning we woke up ready to conquer . During the booking process of our hotel we had read on trip advisor of a creperie just across the street that was wonderful, so we decided to check it out. We walked into a small homey, restaurant, greeted by a charming older French man. Not knowing any French besides Merci, I was curious to see how difficult the language barrier would be. After looking over the menu, and only being able to make out every 5 words, the older French man came to the rescue. He explained their lunch specials and the many crepe options for the day. The meal included one savory crepe, one sweet crepe, and a coffee, I decided on the tomato, cheese, and mushroom crepe, followed by a chocolate crepe and a coffee. It was amazing!
The rest of our day included site seeing and wandering the city. We started off with seeing Notre Dame. It's massive gothic architecture,and stain glass windows were something out of a brochure. I couldn't believe I was actually standing in front of such a gorgeous, historic piece. It's city's surroundings also is what makes it indescribable. Cobbled streets, the seine river, and historic Paris, tops it all.
Each day in Paris was a new and exciting experience. In the morning we enjoyed fresh pastries,and enriching espressos. During the day we would walk and wonder the streets witnessing Paris and all it's history. Although each moment in Paris could has it's own story, there are a few that rank my favorite.
The Louve, Luxembourg park, and the Eiffel Tower. These three, enchanting and unforgettable, definitely rank as my top three favorite places ( this far) in Paris. The Louve was full of statues and artwork that I remember studying when I was a senior in high school during Mrs.Rowans honors humanities class. I couldn't believe the detail, and complexity of the pieces. I can't wrap my head around how massive some of the artwork is. How renaissance artists could construct paintings with heights and widths talking up whole rooms is beyond me.
Luxembourg park is not your average park. A park is an understatement for this attraction. The flowers, trees, cafes, and people that flock are a site to see. I felt like I was in a fairyland. Katie and I walked through the paths and sat under the trees with others carrying on an assortment of activities. Playing music instruments, writing in journals, an elderly couple chatting, kids laughing and playing, picnics, and doggies. Surrounding the park people enjoy the blue skies and breezy air.
A metro ride, connection to the rer ( another way to get around Paris, like a tram), and a short walk, Katie and I were standing in front of the romantic Eiffel tower. We took a spot on a patch of grass that sat directly to the right of the gorgeous structure. For our midnight picnic, we shared a few desserts, glass of champagne, sliced apples, and a fresh baguette. The sight of couples lounging and friends laughing under the tower was one to be sought. Every few hours the tower is all lite up like a Christmas tree, twinkling lights cover it and flicker. Paris , lights and the Effie tower is the epitome of every chick flick, love song or romance novel I have ever read. Although Katie is my soulmate, and PIC, I couldn't help but wish for my one and only, Karl. To be able to share these moments with loved ones endlessly heightens them. In that moment I felt thankful and so blessed.
Meeting new people, speaking different languages, no matter how educated you are, experiences are all around. I would over hear mothers and daughters talking, and sharing stories and although I didn't understand the French they were exchanging, I could imagine what they were discussing. Probably the same conversations my mom and I would have about love, friends, boys, school and fashion. A couple near by holds hands, smiling at one another in complete love. It reminds me of the same feelings I exchange everyday I'm with my love. I see kids running with each other, being playful. I can picture my niece Nixon close behind them, playing a chase game or antagonizing the boys. It doesn't matter what country your in, or the language you speak... It's all relative. And it's all an experience.
Monday, July 11, 2011
I'm gonna need Gelato after this one...
"We're gonna need gelato after this one" has become a common phrase between Katie and I. A long hike up millions on stairs, long waits spent in lines, mishaps or bumps in the road; whenever we need a little pick me up our good old Italian friend Gelato always seems to help us through.
I can't believe that it's been almost three weeks since Katie and I have been traveling. Five destinations down, and two more to go. Time really is such a funny concept. Since I've been in europe, my thinking hasn't been in hours or minutes, but in hotels, trains, and euros. The days of week become insignificant, and I've lost track of any concept of time of day. In the states we are so concerned with the time of day, it becomes to run our lives. We are constantly watching the clock and scheduling everything around it. What time to wake up, Appointments, when to eat and what to eat, errands to run, it all must have the "perfect" timing.
There are many things I have learned from traveling in Europe, but one main thing is that time means nothing. Trains can be delayed, you eat when your hungry ( or when you want a mid day gelato break), the sunsets at 10pm-therefore you have no bedtime, and there is no concept of a quick meal- eating is always an experience in it's own.
I have thoroughly enjoyed Italia. Florence is overwhelming in every sense of it's destination. To walk the cobblestone streets, past churches, and buildings that have been around for hundreds of years, to see statues, paintings, and structures constructed by some of the most talented and historic artists lived, everything is absolutely mind blowing.
Katie and I stayed in florence for five days at this family owned B&B. The man who owned it has traveled all over, originally from Venice then decided to moved to the states and had spent some time in San Diego( another small world coincidence), then made his way back to Italy, and has settled in Florence for the past 11 years. A very soft spoken man, always with a his golden retriever by his side. We stayed on the third floor in a double room- no lift, which is perfect for our gelato and pizza habit. The room was perfect. Comfortable bed, private bathroom, and floor to ceiling windows that opened toward one of the main plazas.
I always find that some of my favorite parts of the cities we travel to is wandering the streets people watching and simply exploring. Although we saw some amazing sites, the Duomo, the Ufizi museum, and picturesque views of Florence, I love feeling that I'm apart of the area rather than just another tourist invading. Within each city I've developed certain goals. During my stay in Florence my few goals to accomplish included :
-Try all authentic Italian cuisine such as pasta , pizza, gnocchi, and gelato of course...
Results: goal accomplishment..Many , many times =)
After two hours, two trips, and some decisive choices, Katie and I booked two tickets to Paris, with one stop in Milan. Because of train prices and availability, we had to stay one night in Milan ( poor us right? Having to stay in the fashion capital of the world). One room right next to the train station in Milan, and a day spent absorbing the rich and fashionable city, we were off at 6:45 am to Paris. I'm so excited for Paris, we have five nights, 6 days in the romantic city. As a new must, my to do list is made for katie and I to execute. We a few must see's, foodie to do's, and experience inserts. My top to do for katie and I is to share a bottle of champagne and baguette under the eiffel tower- clique I know, but it's Paris! The weather seems that it's going to be cooler in Pari, around 10 degrees cooler than Florence, even a chance of rain. I believe the change of weather will be refreshing.
I can't believe that it's been almost three weeks since Katie and I have been traveling. Five destinations down, and two more to go. Time really is such a funny concept. Since I've been in europe, my thinking hasn't been in hours or minutes, but in hotels, trains, and euros. The days of week become insignificant, and I've lost track of any concept of time of day. In the states we are so concerned with the time of day, it becomes to run our lives. We are constantly watching the clock and scheduling everything around it. What time to wake up, Appointments, when to eat and what to eat, errands to run, it all must have the "perfect" timing.
There are many things I have learned from traveling in Europe, but one main thing is that time means nothing. Trains can be delayed, you eat when your hungry ( or when you want a mid day gelato break), the sunsets at 10pm-therefore you have no bedtime, and there is no concept of a quick meal- eating is always an experience in it's own.
I have thoroughly enjoyed Italia. Florence is overwhelming in every sense of it's destination. To walk the cobblestone streets, past churches, and buildings that have been around for hundreds of years, to see statues, paintings, and structures constructed by some of the most talented and historic artists lived, everything is absolutely mind blowing.
Katie and I stayed in florence for five days at this family owned B&B. The man who owned it has traveled all over, originally from Venice then decided to moved to the states and had spent some time in San Diego( another small world coincidence), then made his way back to Italy, and has settled in Florence for the past 11 years. A very soft spoken man, always with a his golden retriever by his side. We stayed on the third floor in a double room- no lift, which is perfect for our gelato and pizza habit. The room was perfect. Comfortable bed, private bathroom, and floor to ceiling windows that opened toward one of the main plazas.
I always find that some of my favorite parts of the cities we travel to is wandering the streets people watching and simply exploring. Although we saw some amazing sites, the Duomo, the Ufizi museum, and picturesque views of Florence, I love feeling that I'm apart of the area rather than just another tourist invading. Within each city I've developed certain goals. During my stay in Florence my few goals to accomplish included :
-Try all authentic Italian cuisine such as pasta , pizza, gnocchi, and gelato of course...
Results: goal accomplishment..Many , many times =)
After two hours, two trips, and some decisive choices, Katie and I booked two tickets to Paris, with one stop in Milan. Because of train prices and availability, we had to stay one night in Milan ( poor us right? Having to stay in the fashion capital of the world). One room right next to the train station in Milan, and a day spent absorbing the rich and fashionable city, we were off at 6:45 am to Paris. I'm so excited for Paris, we have five nights, 6 days in the romantic city. As a new must, my to do list is made for katie and I to execute. We a few must see's, foodie to do's, and experience inserts. My top to do for katie and I is to share a bottle of champagne and baguette under the eiffel tower- clique I know, but it's Paris! The weather seems that it's going to be cooler in Pari, around 10 degrees cooler than Florence, even a chance of rain. I believe the change of weather will be refreshing.
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Friday, July 8, 2011
Falling in love with Cinque Terre
I can still remember googling Cinque Terre in my sorority house two years ago, and dreaming about the day I would witness it's beauty. I gasped over pictures of friends that had visited and hiked the five villages, I made it a personal goal to someday do the same.
After a few hours via train to la Spezia, and a quick transfer, Katie and I were arriving in the second most souther village of the five, Manarola. We planned to stay in Manarola for 3 nights while we explore the rest o the villages. Manarola turned out to be the perfect getaway. It's italian charm won us over from the very beginning . As we walked up the hill to Check in we were greeted by the sweetest women, Anna. She was a thirty something, receptionist, Very humorous and thoughtful, that led us to our home for the next couple days. As we trek the 100 and something steps up, through the humidity, we make it to our double room that overlooked all of Manarola. The view was gorgeous! We were surrounded by gardens, vineyards, and massive mediterranean.
Our first evening in Manarola, Katie and I went to dinner at one of the local restaurants by the port, La Portocillo, the service and food was divine. I enjoyed fresh grilled lobster that was caught earlier that day, with an array of vegetables, paired with their local Cinque Terre house white. Ah I can taste the fresh oregano just thinking about it!
Since Manarola is a small village, Internet access was limited. This was a bit of a struggle for Katie and I considering we needed to book our next couple of nights in Florence. In our second day, we went to a near by town that had wifi access. 10 dollars, and a few studious hours later, we had booked our next 5 nights, and train tickets in Firenze. Exhaustion from surfing the web, Katie and I went back to our humble home on e Manarola hill, showered and went out for dinner and drinks in town. Next to the restaurant we had dinner at the previous night, was a small pub style restaurant and bar. Greeted by a mellow, late night crowd, ad the singing of a local playing guitar, we sat down for two italian beers, a cheese plate, and two kinds of brochette ( tomato, and eggplant).Some backpackers go through Europe on a budget of Top Ramen, but Katie and I don't know that concept. We can't help to try and eat it all. I couldn't have asked for a more perfect evening. Sitting across from my best friend, listening to Beatle classics, and enjoying some of the finest cuisine, what else could I need?
The time had come- Waking up, and prepping for the hike through the five villages. I was so excited to see it all, and some physical activity, maybe work off a little gelato? We got a good breakfast in, and headed out on one of the most beautiful hikes I've ever been on. Trekking up a mountain, through the vineyards, overlooking the coast, I couldn't imagine feeling more thankful in that moment. To top it off, half way through, as we walk the windy path, it starts to rain a tropical shower. It's timing was perfect, just enough to cool us off. After one stop for some fresh fruit in Corniglia, and one minor bump in the road( when I lost 15 euros, yes almost 22 dollars), we arrived in the town of Vernanzza. This town was bigger than our quaint home in Manarola, full of tourists, restaurants, and a cover with a beach to lay out at. Of course Katie and I couldn't manage one day in Italy without our dose of gelato, so we decided to cool off and lounge by the cove before heading back to Manarola.
I've discovered that after spending a few days traveling in one location, you become attached to certain things. While staying in Manarola, places, and faces became a temporary familiarity. During the last night of our stay, we spent it sitting and overlooking our town, watching the tourists dine with the locals, and taking in our last few moments along the coast.
Next stop, Fireze!
After a few hours via train to la Spezia, and a quick transfer, Katie and I were arriving in the second most souther village of the five, Manarola. We planned to stay in Manarola for 3 nights while we explore the rest o the villages. Manarola turned out to be the perfect getaway. It's italian charm won us over from the very beginning . As we walked up the hill to Check in we were greeted by the sweetest women, Anna. She was a thirty something, receptionist, Very humorous and thoughtful, that led us to our home for the next couple days. As we trek the 100 and something steps up, through the humidity, we make it to our double room that overlooked all of Manarola. The view was gorgeous! We were surrounded by gardens, vineyards, and massive mediterranean.
Our first evening in Manarola, Katie and I went to dinner at one of the local restaurants by the port, La Portocillo, the service and food was divine. I enjoyed fresh grilled lobster that was caught earlier that day, with an array of vegetables, paired with their local Cinque Terre house white. Ah I can taste the fresh oregano just thinking about it!
Since Manarola is a small village, Internet access was limited. This was a bit of a struggle for Katie and I considering we needed to book our next couple of nights in Florence. In our second day, we went to a near by town that had wifi access. 10 dollars, and a few studious hours later, we had booked our next 5 nights, and train tickets in Firenze. Exhaustion from surfing the web, Katie and I went back to our humble home on e Manarola hill, showered and went out for dinner and drinks in town. Next to the restaurant we had dinner at the previous night, was a small pub style restaurant and bar. Greeted by a mellow, late night crowd, ad the singing of a local playing guitar, we sat down for two italian beers, a cheese plate, and two kinds of brochette ( tomato, and eggplant).Some backpackers go through Europe on a budget of Top Ramen, but Katie and I don't know that concept. We can't help to try and eat it all. I couldn't have asked for a more perfect evening. Sitting across from my best friend, listening to Beatle classics, and enjoying some of the finest cuisine, what else could I need?
The time had come- Waking up, and prepping for the hike through the five villages. I was so excited to see it all, and some physical activity, maybe work off a little gelato? We got a good breakfast in, and headed out on one of the most beautiful hikes I've ever been on. Trekking up a mountain, through the vineyards, overlooking the coast, I couldn't imagine feeling more thankful in that moment. To top it off, half way through, as we walk the windy path, it starts to rain a tropical shower. It's timing was perfect, just enough to cool us off. After one stop for some fresh fruit in Corniglia, and one minor bump in the road( when I lost 15 euros, yes almost 22 dollars), we arrived in the town of Vernanzza. This town was bigger than our quaint home in Manarola, full of tourists, restaurants, and a cover with a beach to lay out at. Of course Katie and I couldn't manage one day in Italy without our dose of gelato, so we decided to cool off and lounge by the cove before heading back to Manarola.
I've discovered that after spending a few days traveling in one location, you become attached to certain things. While staying in Manarola, places, and faces became a temporary familiarity. During the last night of our stay, we spent it sitting and overlooking our town, watching the tourists dine with the locals, and taking in our last few moments along the coast.
Next stop, Fireze!
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Bonjour Nice
You know that saying,"hit the ground running",I now know the true meaning of the expression. This morning started off a little delayed as Katie and I snoozed the alarm leaving us a few minutes behind schedule. It was time to check out of Nice, and continue on our journey north. We decided to enjoy a caffe and croissant before heading to the station. Its insane how each day seems to go by quicker and quicker.
Our time in Nice was although short, very pleasant. Our first night in, we decided to go to this little restaurant right by out hotel, La Signature. We were greeted by the sweetest, most joyful French women. She understood our minimal French, or lack there of, and seated us on the patio. As Katie and I looked over the menu we could make out about every 10 words . Thankfully, our lovely waitress helped us every step of the way. She explained the dishes, and included each fresh ingredient . Similar to Spain, there are two courses, dessert and a beverage included in the entrée. Starting with a salad with a fresh baguette with fig, and melted goat cheese, continuing to a white fish, fresh sauté vegetables, and white rice- everything was made beyond perfection. Katie and I both paired our dinner with a house white that was light and crisp. As we obsessed over each bite, we moved onto dessert. After hearing about 5 amazing choices, we decided to get the chocolate toblurone mousse and creme brûlée. The complete meal was delicious from start to finish, definitely the best service, and meal I have experienced thus far.
Our hotel turned out to be in a different location than Katie and I had pictured, but to our benefit, it was close to everything. The staff was very helpful, and there seemed to be many travelers from all over.
We explored the old town of Nice during our second day by walking along the Mediterranean and observing this quaint area. I have never seen a body of water such a clear blue,-turquoise before.Thanks to my ADPI sister Christine ( my travel go to), we found a ice cream shoppe Ferranno. They had many flavors of the most fresh gelato, classic and unique flavors alike. They all looked so delicious, it was tough just choosing one. So I got two of course! Fig and pecan. Mmm! They were so refreshing and a perfect treat to end our day of wondering.
Traveling without a concrete schedule has had it's ups and downs. It's exciting to play things by ear, and to have the flexibility to chose our travels as we feel. But on the other hand it's time consuming. That's my only con, being on the computer, searching for accommodations, and corresponding trains can take away from the time we spend out enjoying the city we are in. Not saying I regret the method to our madness, it's all apart of our experience. And I have enjoyed every second. But I do have to say, once we have somewhere booked, trains, hotel,the whole thing. As a organizational enthusiast, I thrive off of knowing a schedule.
Today we are leaving Nice, and traveling to La Spezia, with our final destination in Manarola. I find it so funny that you can be in a country speaking one language, and then within an hour, another country speaking a completely different language. We went from french to Italian in less than 2 hours, I just love it! I am very excited for this part of our trip. We are visiting Cinque Terre, the villages. In Manarola we have a booked a double room in an apartment that overlooks the Mediterranean. We plan on staying there 2 nights and then another room close by for a third night. I can't wait to hike the five villages ( about a 11 miles), and to float in the ocean. From what I've read, each village has it's own specialties, and I'm so excited to experience them all. I have a feeling that my obsession for photographing landscapes is really going to come into effect these next couple of days, prepare yourself for lots and lots of pictures. ( all for you dad! I've learned from the best =) )
Our time in Nice was although short, very pleasant. Our first night in, we decided to go to this little restaurant right by out hotel, La Signature. We were greeted by the sweetest, most joyful French women. She understood our minimal French, or lack there of, and seated us on the patio. As Katie and I looked over the menu we could make out about every 10 words . Thankfully, our lovely waitress helped us every step of the way. She explained the dishes, and included each fresh ingredient . Similar to Spain, there are two courses, dessert and a beverage included in the entrée. Starting with a salad with a fresh baguette with fig, and melted goat cheese, continuing to a white fish, fresh sauté vegetables, and white rice- everything was made beyond perfection. Katie and I both paired our dinner with a house white that was light and crisp. As we obsessed over each bite, we moved onto dessert. After hearing about 5 amazing choices, we decided to get the chocolate toblurone mousse and creme brûlée. The complete meal was delicious from start to finish, definitely the best service, and meal I have experienced thus far.
Our hotel turned out to be in a different location than Katie and I had pictured, but to our benefit, it was close to everything. The staff was very helpful, and there seemed to be many travelers from all over.
We explored the old town of Nice during our second day by walking along the Mediterranean and observing this quaint area. I have never seen a body of water such a clear blue,-turquoise before.Thanks to my ADPI sister Christine ( my travel go to), we found a ice cream shoppe Ferranno. They had many flavors of the most fresh gelato, classic and unique flavors alike. They all looked so delicious, it was tough just choosing one. So I got two of course! Fig and pecan. Mmm! They were so refreshing and a perfect treat to end our day of wondering.
Traveling without a concrete schedule has had it's ups and downs. It's exciting to play things by ear, and to have the flexibility to chose our travels as we feel. But on the other hand it's time consuming. That's my only con, being on the computer, searching for accommodations, and corresponding trains can take away from the time we spend out enjoying the city we are in. Not saying I regret the method to our madness, it's all apart of our experience. And I have enjoyed every second. But I do have to say, once we have somewhere booked, trains, hotel,the whole thing. As a organizational enthusiast, I thrive off of knowing a schedule.
Today we are leaving Nice, and traveling to La Spezia, with our final destination in Manarola. I find it so funny that you can be in a country speaking one language, and then within an hour, another country speaking a completely different language. We went from french to Italian in less than 2 hours, I just love it! I am very excited for this part of our trip. We are visiting Cinque Terre, the villages. In Manarola we have a booked a double room in an apartment that overlooks the Mediterranean. We plan on staying there 2 nights and then another room close by for a third night. I can't wait to hike the five villages ( about a 11 miles), and to float in the ocean. From what I've read, each village has it's own specialties, and I'm so excited to experience them all. I have a feeling that my obsession for photographing landscapes is really going to come into effect these next couple of days, prepare yourself for lots and lots of pictures. ( all for you dad! I've learned from the best =) )
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