Rome – La Citta Eterna – has failed to make me fall in love with it. During our two-week vacation in March 2012, we have planned to spend several nights in Rome, allowing us enough time to at least scratch the surface and decide whether we love it or not. Rome met us with sunshine … Continued
Milan, in the north of Italy, is famous for its fashion. But, most people I know don’t see the point in visiting the city. I disagree. On almost every trip I take to Italy, I find myself spending a day, or two, in this large beautiful city where I do a little shopping, of … Continued
It is midnight in St. Mark’s Square in Venice and the entire piazza is under water. Special tidal conditions and a full moon have caused the water levels to rise a metre and give the impression that one of the world’s most beautiful cities is sinking. A knee-deep flash lagoon covers what Napoleon referred to … Continued
When the moon hits you eye like a big pizza pie That’s amore When the world seems to shine like you’ve had too much wine That’s amore Bells will ring ting-a-ling-a-ling, ting-a-ling-a-ling And you’ll sing “Vita bella” Dean Martin – That’s amore That song was the first thing to come to my mind the second … Continued
Crossing the Bridge of Sighs At my first job right out of college, I spent eight-plus hours a day getting people to “Call now!” and “Learn more online!” for clients of a small-but-ambitious ad agency in Chicago. Needless to say, I wanted to put my writing to work in a way that was actually productive … Continued
My husband and I were finally able to indulge in that long-awaited sojourn to Italy this past summer. One of the most captivating places we were fortunate enough to visit was Isola Bella, an island located in Lago Maggiore in the resort district of Northern Italy. Isola Bella is renowned for its historic baroque palace … Continued
I hate cats. In fact, cats and I have a mutual hatred for each other that works out well. I pretend I don’t see cats, they pretend they don’t see me. In a twisted way, we’re sort of perfect for each other. But despite our differences, for some reason, when I went to Rome, Italy, … Continued
Italy Re-Mastered I always forget my camera. ‘How will you remember?’ My mother asks, brow furrowed. My response: ‘If I forget something, then it wasn’t that important.’ A philosophy that has not always worked out. So, on my trip to Italy, I was determined to record everything. Not only to save my memory but my … Continued
I pound on the door, knuckles slamming against the hard wood. I wanted to call out for help, but other guests in the hotel were sleeping. Pressing my head to the door, I jiggled the handle and felt my heart fall as it jerked to a stop with a solid clunk –I was locked in. … Continued
Four Unique Winter Experiences in Europe There’s something about traveling in Europe during the winter months that is quite unlike anything else I’ve experienced. There are those that utterly despise winter because of the uncomfortable temperatures and short days (which is understandable) but contrary to popular belief, a trip to Europe during the winter can … Continued