So Naples was quite the experience. First off, the main reason we even wanted to go to Naples was because of the beach- the lower half of my body has been albino for two long- so we decided to take a night before Florence and do some tanning. We arrived, again knowing nothing about the city or its inhabitants. Silly us, we should have done our stupid research. Upon arriving, whilst in line for train tickets for the next day, we start visiting with a couple from America. The first thing they say? Get out of Naples. Oh, good! We later find out that Naples is the number one spot for sex trafficking in Italy- now isn't that endearing. We eventually leave to find our hostel, bid the harbingers of doom goodbye, and walk into the streets fully fresh and paranoid. Now we have been in Italy for a while, and I thought Rome was bad. Ha! Comical. Naples was a whole new kind of nasty. In Rome, there is literally shit on the roads, everywhere. Evidenty cleaning up your dogs fecal matter is not required here- LAZY LAZY LAZY STUPID PEOPLE! But really, as long as you watched where you were going all you got was the oh so pleasant aroma. But Naples? It's the people. The men. Disgusting, rude, crass, pathetic creatures. Not to mention the garbage, but in Italy, I expect things to be dirty (this makes me sad to say). It really is a shame when one of the most historically incredible countries creates such a negative reputation for itself. What's worse is that people don't seem to have pride in where they live, their cities, and the government doesn't seem to care either. There is no attention paid to the beauty of their cities, which is tragic because they have some of the most amazing buildings and ruins. In that respect, I am very disappointed. And Naples was not only not an exception, but one of the most shining examples of this tragedy.
After leaving the train station we make our way to our hostel, which is located down a dirty busy street and some random stairs. It gives you the impression that you're entering the Netherworlds- but luckily the actual hostel is quite nice. We decide to make our way down to the beach (a series of white rocks against the water), and instead decide to go to Capri island. So we board the ferry. Capri island is one of the only redeeming qualities that has gone along with Naples. I believe it is one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen, and has the bluest and clearest water. So incredibly pleased with Capri, after the disgusting feeling one acquires from just being in Naples. We spend the day pleasantly, tanning and swimming in the ocean, wandering around the town and just enjoying the beauty of our surroundings. Anyone who knows me knows I love swimming and the ocean- I was so content, so thrilled to be relaxing and doing something I enjoy so much. A lovely day in a gorgeous place. Sadly, I received quite possibly the worst sun burn I have ever gotten. Stupid pale skin! Robyn got a burn as well, though not nearly as badly. I am in copious amounts of pain. Oh well! It was worth it.
Upon arriving back in Naples we decide to go and eat, so, naturally, we go for pizza (of which Naples is famous for). We ask around and find the best spot- not overly well known or fancy, but actually the most amazing pizza I have ever had in my life. The three of us each ordered one dish, a Marguerita pizza, another one with prosciutto, and a calzone. You never realize how amazing this food is until you go to the place where it originated from, the dough especially being the most amazing component. Everything was handmade, nothing packaged and set aside- we even saw them making the pizza, throwing and kneading the dough. It was incredible! So we split up each of our dishes into thirds and had one of the best meals we have had in Italy. This pizza was the only other redeeming quality In Naples. C'est la vie!
Thus far, I have been quite disappointed in Italy. I have, surprisingly, had some of the worst food I've eaten here, which is quite contrary to what everyone says. I'm sorry to say this, because I have been excited for so long to go to Italy, and have created an expectation for the country. I have so far been slightly disappointed. There have been some wonderful experiences in Italy- but on the whole, I was wanting more. Maybe (hopefully!) Florence will change my mind!
While we were having pizza in Naples we struck up a fellow tourist from Australia. I love Australians. Always so much fun and so welcoming. I find out an interesting piece of information, about an undergraduate education in medicine that does not necessitate a pre-med degree. I am not quite sure how this works, but if I have the ability to go into medicine without having to take courses that do not relate to my profession, I would do it. I find taking four years of courses that are completely unrelated, and then taking another four that actually matter, to be an indication of a massively flawed system. I may possibly, after receiving my degree, apply to both law and this medical school. And, even better, the medical school is obviously in Australia. Yes! So I have been thinking quite heavily on these matters, as I usually do.
We are currently on the train on our way to Florence. Please, please I hope Florence changes my mind about Italy. I am very excited to spend my days relaxing, reading, and tanning my back (which did not get any sun in Capri). That is, when I can actually lay on my stomach without rolling away in pain. Come on Florence! I need some good food and kind people!
On my last note, people in Italy seem to treat tourists horribly. It's kind of ironic, seeing as how tourism plays quite a significant role in the Italian economy- such a shame. Also, I don't think there is much concept for volume control or personal space. The people are obnoxiously loud and inappropriately comfortable with being in my bubble. Maybe that's just me being a maniac- but I despise it. Oi.
Anyhow, off to Florence! I really hope the people behind me on this train placate their demon child- it is trying my nerves.
Ciao.
-Jess
P.S.- I recognize that I am generalizing and should actually be using quantifying terms such as 'some', etc. Not everyone in Italy is bad, I'm sure. So just assume, as a reader, that this is implied. There, I've redeemed myself.
Friday, July 29, 2011
Monday, July 25, 2011
Roma!
Alright Rome Rome Rome. First impressions-stinky, dirty, confusing, unorganized and dangerous. The term 'when in Rome do like the Romans' I feel can be directly connected to pedestrian crossings. The area we are staying has very few cross walks, so you basically run when you feel you can safely make it across. To Jess and I this is never, so we have learned to follow the people around us. Very unsafe, but in an unorganized city like Rome it is all you can do. I hope we survive. Everyone thought we'd get stolen, but if anything I think our biggest danger is getting hit by some sort of a vehicle.
Our B&B is just a room in an apartment, which is nice not to have to bunk for once, but I miss the good breakfasts we have been getting at hostels. The complimentary breakfasts here are all prepackaged carbs and sugars, and in a place like Rome with bakeries and fresh fruit this is a disgrace. But it's free, so can't really complain too much. Our room is clean, we have a tv that has MTV (some english shows) and a clean bathroom. And we checked- no bed bugs. After the feast they had on us in Venice I would never want to have bed bugs again. The location of the B&B is very far away from everything except the basilica of st john lateran, the 'most ancient church in the world' and also a place where popes used to live for a short period of time! Which is neat. But it's a half hour walk to the colosseum, an hour walk to basically everywhere else. Thank God (literally since it's Rome- hugely religious) we like to walk. We better be super fit after this trip!
We went for a walk on the first night and saw the colosseum and all the ruins around it, then stopped and got some groceries. We have decided to save some money by eating cereal for dinner for a few nights, we will eat like kings in florence! Plus I have no idea how much I have spend and really don't want to go over budget :( too many things to pay for when I get home.. Not to think about now, but still gotta be smart.
We walked past the colosseum, which by the way is absolutely amazing, crazy to actually see in person, but exactly what I expected it to be. It fits perfectly among all the ruins and the gardens that surround it, and the history of it is just chilling. So many animals and people died fighting there, not to mention epic gladiators. I read that in AD 80 (the year it opened) they held 100 days of fights where over 9000 animals died and thousands of humans fought to the death. I could never imagine watching two people fighting to the death. Just brutal. Anyways we walked past it, to the trevi fountain. I threw a coin in and made a wish of course. The water was so clear and the fountain so pristine. And, surprise!, scattered with tourists like ourselves. We then tried to navigate the streets and find the Spanish steps, where we got harassed by a boy trying to sell flowers. If it's a 'gift' why do we have to pay?! Dumbie. Anyways Spanish steps, big, clean, full of tourists. We climbed them and from the top there is an amazing view of the whole city, as well as the vatican. And directly across is the designer shopping street! Oh how I wish I were rich. We follow a path into a beautiful park from the top of the steps where we sit and enjoy the weather and wait for Kevin (our travel friend from Venice) to find us! After we meet up with Kevin we take a walk down the river, then eat some nasty pasta and find the pantheon. And I get turned down from entering by the ice cream police- out to crush dreams across Italy. But eventually i down my gelato (it was gelato-o-clock what can a girl do?) and enter and feel the power of the building. I can't even imagine what it must have been like to have been sitting in while worship was taking place there. It is a huge building with many shrines to the gods.
The thing with Rome is you can walk in any direction and you will hit an ancient building. Which is very rare for a city, as we should all know in Canada. Whether it be an ancient wall or an important building, Rome is just scattered with history. This history can mainly be found in the Roman Forum (the ruins next to the colosseum). This is mainly where the political, commercial and religious buildings stood, and it is mainly all torn down, mainly because of earthquakes, but many columns still stand and you can also find many large pieces of the buildings on the ground. It would have been crazy to be standing in this area when Rome was in it's peak of power. I can only imagine the statues and giant buildings showing off the fortune and power of the Roman empire. It is crazy how powerful they were. On the street walls of the forum they have the Roman empire over the course of it's power and how it grew over the years, not comparable at all to anything today. I just love being in a place so rich with history.
We also visited the colosseum, which is a must do in Rome. Over 2/3 of the original building was destroyed or used for other purposes so what we saw was only a fraction of what it was in its' prime. The size of it is probably comparable to the saddledome, just a lot more impressive. It's one thing to see pictures of it, but to see it with your own eyes is another thing. Obviously the pictures look just like it but you can never imagine the size of the building itself. And the whole thing is covered in holes that we all speculated were from mussolini getting mad and punching the walls, but really it's from the travertine marble that covered the walls when it was originally built. The whole floor was opened up to show the chambers below, and a section of the stage was reconstructed to show the grandeur of what it was at one point. It would have been a terrifying event to be under the stage waiting to be fought and most likely killed. I can't imagine it would have been well lit either which adds to the barbaric nature of the whole thing. But either way the colosseum stands to remind us of how grand the Roman Empire was. It took us over an hour to go through the whole thing, you could have easily spent a few more if you wanted to analyze all the details and if you knew more about the structure, of which we did not. Oh and for anyone going to Rome, the line for the colosseum is crazy, but you can easily skip it if you did what we did. The night before we went into the roman forum, where you buy tickets that last 2 days and get you into the colosseum as well as an archeologist site. So just get tickets the night before somewhere else and you get to skip the whole line.
After the colosseum we went for a walk around the ancient city centre. We walked past the race track, saw the UN building, and eventually found a pub where we ate a less than average meal (surprise since we were in a pub right;)?) and continued on until we decided to go and check out the archeological site. Which by 3 there are no lines anywhere, another travel tip right there- go mid afternoon. This was a very fascinating site, it was more of the every day roman town, with the exception of the temples, fountains and huge gardens. They had a terrace that overlooked the whole city and the colosseum and it was just one of those moments that cameras can't even come close to capturing the pure beauty of the place. Rome is indescribably full of beauty, you just have to go to experience it. There are probably only two spots that capture the full view of Rome, and this was one of them.
On the walk home we come across people trying to recruit tourists to come on a pub crawl. So of course we do it, part of knowing a city is knowing the night life. It ends up being okay, us as Canadians have to show our true drinking game talents so we partook in some flip cup/ beer pong action, kicked butt then just went around to a few more clubs. Nothing fancy going on there. Met a lot of people, saw a lot of sites on the walks around, including a pyramid- who knew Rome had a pyramid? We ended up walking home at the end of the night- literally across town. And we didnt get stabbed or stolen :) thanks Kevin!!
Yesterday we did a bunch of walking around. Ate some delicious risotto, shopped, then saw the trevi fountain and the Spanish steps again, and went to a park where we rented a 2 person bike and reaped havoc. I was designated bell ringer, Kevin did all the peddling and Jesska's side didn't work so we were just along for the ride. We found a chariot race track and raced around it, went down a hill and had to push the bike back up, saw many gorgeous fountains and monuments. It was a truly fun time. This park also had an amazing view of the entire city, especially St. Peter's basilica and the vatican. And on the way home we ran into a shabby old man selling corn on the cob of which he roasted on his little BBQ :) so delish and reminded me of taber corn!
And today we are off to the Vatican. Of which I am very excited for. I will be saying a prayer and light a candle for Miles in St. Peter's basilica, so hopefully God listens more in super holy places.
Our B&B is just a room in an apartment, which is nice not to have to bunk for once, but I miss the good breakfasts we have been getting at hostels. The complimentary breakfasts here are all prepackaged carbs and sugars, and in a place like Rome with bakeries and fresh fruit this is a disgrace. But it's free, so can't really complain too much. Our room is clean, we have a tv that has MTV (some english shows) and a clean bathroom. And we checked- no bed bugs. After the feast they had on us in Venice I would never want to have bed bugs again. The location of the B&B is very far away from everything except the basilica of st john lateran, the 'most ancient church in the world' and also a place where popes used to live for a short period of time! Which is neat. But it's a half hour walk to the colosseum, an hour walk to basically everywhere else. Thank God (literally since it's Rome- hugely religious) we like to walk. We better be super fit after this trip!
We went for a walk on the first night and saw the colosseum and all the ruins around it, then stopped and got some groceries. We have decided to save some money by eating cereal for dinner for a few nights, we will eat like kings in florence! Plus I have no idea how much I have spend and really don't want to go over budget :( too many things to pay for when I get home.. Not to think about now, but still gotta be smart.
We walked past the colosseum, which by the way is absolutely amazing, crazy to actually see in person, but exactly what I expected it to be. It fits perfectly among all the ruins and the gardens that surround it, and the history of it is just chilling. So many animals and people died fighting there, not to mention epic gladiators. I read that in AD 80 (the year it opened) they held 100 days of fights where over 9000 animals died and thousands of humans fought to the death. I could never imagine watching two people fighting to the death. Just brutal. Anyways we walked past it, to the trevi fountain. I threw a coin in and made a wish of course. The water was so clear and the fountain so pristine. And, surprise!, scattered with tourists like ourselves. We then tried to navigate the streets and find the Spanish steps, where we got harassed by a boy trying to sell flowers. If it's a 'gift' why do we have to pay?! Dumbie. Anyways Spanish steps, big, clean, full of tourists. We climbed them and from the top there is an amazing view of the whole city, as well as the vatican. And directly across is the designer shopping street! Oh how I wish I were rich. We follow a path into a beautiful park from the top of the steps where we sit and enjoy the weather and wait for Kevin (our travel friend from Venice) to find us! After we meet up with Kevin we take a walk down the river, then eat some nasty pasta and find the pantheon. And I get turned down from entering by the ice cream police- out to crush dreams across Italy. But eventually i down my gelato (it was gelato-o-clock what can a girl do?) and enter and feel the power of the building. I can't even imagine what it must have been like to have been sitting in while worship was taking place there. It is a huge building with many shrines to the gods.
The thing with Rome is you can walk in any direction and you will hit an ancient building. Which is very rare for a city, as we should all know in Canada. Whether it be an ancient wall or an important building, Rome is just scattered with history. This history can mainly be found in the Roman Forum (the ruins next to the colosseum). This is mainly where the political, commercial and religious buildings stood, and it is mainly all torn down, mainly because of earthquakes, but many columns still stand and you can also find many large pieces of the buildings on the ground. It would have been crazy to be standing in this area when Rome was in it's peak of power. I can only imagine the statues and giant buildings showing off the fortune and power of the Roman empire. It is crazy how powerful they were. On the street walls of the forum they have the Roman empire over the course of it's power and how it grew over the years, not comparable at all to anything today. I just love being in a place so rich with history.
We also visited the colosseum, which is a must do in Rome. Over 2/3 of the original building was destroyed or used for other purposes so what we saw was only a fraction of what it was in its' prime. The size of it is probably comparable to the saddledome, just a lot more impressive. It's one thing to see pictures of it, but to see it with your own eyes is another thing. Obviously the pictures look just like it but you can never imagine the size of the building itself. And the whole thing is covered in holes that we all speculated were from mussolini getting mad and punching the walls, but really it's from the travertine marble that covered the walls when it was originally built. The whole floor was opened up to show the chambers below, and a section of the stage was reconstructed to show the grandeur of what it was at one point. It would have been a terrifying event to be under the stage waiting to be fought and most likely killed. I can't imagine it would have been well lit either which adds to the barbaric nature of the whole thing. But either way the colosseum stands to remind us of how grand the Roman Empire was. It took us over an hour to go through the whole thing, you could have easily spent a few more if you wanted to analyze all the details and if you knew more about the structure, of which we did not. Oh and for anyone going to Rome, the line for the colosseum is crazy, but you can easily skip it if you did what we did. The night before we went into the roman forum, where you buy tickets that last 2 days and get you into the colosseum as well as an archeologist site. So just get tickets the night before somewhere else and you get to skip the whole line.
After the colosseum we went for a walk around the ancient city centre. We walked past the race track, saw the UN building, and eventually found a pub where we ate a less than average meal (surprise since we were in a pub right;)?) and continued on until we decided to go and check out the archeological site. Which by 3 there are no lines anywhere, another travel tip right there- go mid afternoon. This was a very fascinating site, it was more of the every day roman town, with the exception of the temples, fountains and huge gardens. They had a terrace that overlooked the whole city and the colosseum and it was just one of those moments that cameras can't even come close to capturing the pure beauty of the place. Rome is indescribably full of beauty, you just have to go to experience it. There are probably only two spots that capture the full view of Rome, and this was one of them.
On the walk home we come across people trying to recruit tourists to come on a pub crawl. So of course we do it, part of knowing a city is knowing the night life. It ends up being okay, us as Canadians have to show our true drinking game talents so we partook in some flip cup/ beer pong action, kicked butt then just went around to a few more clubs. Nothing fancy going on there. Met a lot of people, saw a lot of sites on the walks around, including a pyramid- who knew Rome had a pyramid? We ended up walking home at the end of the night- literally across town. And we didnt get stabbed or stolen :) thanks Kevin!!
Yesterday we did a bunch of walking around. Ate some delicious risotto, shopped, then saw the trevi fountain and the Spanish steps again, and went to a park where we rented a 2 person bike and reaped havoc. I was designated bell ringer, Kevin did all the peddling and Jesska's side didn't work so we were just along for the ride. We found a chariot race track and raced around it, went down a hill and had to push the bike back up, saw many gorgeous fountains and monuments. It was a truly fun time. This park also had an amazing view of the entire city, especially St. Peter's basilica and the vatican. And on the way home we ran into a shabby old man selling corn on the cob of which he roasted on his little BBQ :) so delish and reminded me of taber corn!
And today we are off to the Vatican. Of which I am very excited for. I will be saying a prayer and light a candle for Miles in St. Peter's basilica, so hopefully God listens more in super holy places.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
'Thiiissss is the night, it's a beaaauuttiful night...'
So we experienced our first night train to Venice a couple days ago. And subsequently decided, that there is no way we will be taking another. Honestly one of the most uncomfortable experiences I've ever had, right up there with sleeping in my car on May long. I was sitting beside some surly Italian boy, maybe about 14, who wouldn't say a word to us. And later we were joined by two chatty females, utterly moronic, who decided that it's a great idea to start chattering loudly at 6 in the morning. Super impressed. I ended up half spooning the surly Italian boy, because he was taking up so much room. So, an interesting and tiring trip to Venice!
Venice, however, was exactly what I pictured it to be. The canals, the beautiful old buildings that look so haphazard, seeming to be tilting into the water. Venezia is a place of romance (not that we actually experienced any- hah!) ; the small passageways between the buildings, the reflections in the water in the moonlight. A quite indescribable city, and whatever your visual is of Venice, you will most likely find it there. Our first day we walked around, getting utterly lost in the small streets and adjoining canals. Tasted our first gelato (amazing!) and had our first Italian dinner. Robyn had pasta, and I had pizza, both of us drinking Italian wine- so delicious! The second day we met up with a travel buddy from Canada, named Kevin. We then explored the other side of Venice, right on the coast line. We saw San Marco square, went up in this tower which had an amazing view of Venice and all the waterways, then walked around on the Malicon to a park on the edge of town. A park with no grass. Apparently the park was hosting an art show that cost €12 to get into, and there was no way we were spending that money on art instead of food. So we go and walk around the local side of Venice and see how the Italians live. Very quaint. We got lost of course but stumbled upon a quite island with a very leaning tower and a charming square. Robyn and I wanted to get a gondola ride through the canals- this was, however ludicrously expensive. €100 for a half hour. Insane. So that did not happen.
Another very neat thing about Venice are these masks that are sold everywhere, ornate and beautiful, meant for masquerades. Robyn and I went to try one on, wanting to actually buy one. And then the guy sitting on his ass watching us yelled at us, saying, 'You touch it, you buy it.' Naturally, I get all haughty and leave immediately- jackass. Really? Not a fan. So no masks for us, thanks to grumpy gills.
The only things to do in Venice, it seemed, were shop and eat. And take lots of siesta time (yay siesta time!). So...that's what we did. I'm glad to be moving on to another place though, to be doing things again. I'm getting sick of seeing pretty churches- I don't think any of them could compare to Westminster or St. Paul's. All the damn pretty churches...Oi.
So I went to this pharmacia to get something for this wicked cough I have. I have had it for about a month now, and I am inclined to believe it is a mild case of bronchitis. Sadly, I don't speak Italian, so I don't really know what medication they gave me. I'm quite certain it's just a cough suppressant- I NEED ANTIBIOTICS! I have yet to figure out what I'm going to do about that. Crazy Italians.
I can't say I particularly enjoy how loud the general population is. Everyone seems to be yelling here...all the time. HELLO, HOW ARE YOU, DEAR FRIEND? Quiet, you! The children are demons here- so whiny, and wild! Do people not discipline their offspring here? Wild, wild demon children! I much prefer the quiet regards of a Brit. So polite...so quiet.
The males here are nothing to write home about. Nor the females. I would rate Venice on my scale of general attractiveness at a 5.5/10. Boring.
Robyn and I have both gotten these strange red bumps on our arms...I really have no idea what they are, if they are bed bugs (oh my god...-dies-), or some type of reaction to the water here. Every time I see someone drink the water I die inside a little. Do you know all the bacteria in this water?! So unclean! I absolutely despise any kind of skin irritation...it is driving me nuts. I hope they just go away.
Yesterday was our last day in Venice. In the morning we went to this little cafe. I got a piece of tiramisu (which I hadn't tried yet), and what I thought was a cafe mocha. Turns out it was just a cup of melted chocolate. Amazing, but really?! I won't make that mistake again. We spent the day wandering around, getting lost, having siesta time, and having a final supper. We both got calzoni's. Mine came out and was literally the size of my face- I could have worn it as a hat. When it was delivered to me I just started laughing. I still have half left! It is so, so so good though. You can taste that the dough was home made. The most amazing food!
Now we are on our way to Rome. I'm quite excited, we're staying at a little B&B (which, hopefully, we can actually find). After Rome we will be heading off to Naples for a night, and then a little town between Chianti and Firenze. Italy is wonderful!
Just an afterthought- it's incredible that the Italian economy is crashing. They charge you for absolutely everything. I wouldn't be surprised if I receive a bill for breathing.
Blog again soon. Ciao!
-Jessiker
Venice, however, was exactly what I pictured it to be. The canals, the beautiful old buildings that look so haphazard, seeming to be tilting into the water. Venezia is a place of romance (not that we actually experienced any- hah!) ; the small passageways between the buildings, the reflections in the water in the moonlight. A quite indescribable city, and whatever your visual is of Venice, you will most likely find it there. Our first day we walked around, getting utterly lost in the small streets and adjoining canals. Tasted our first gelato (amazing!) and had our first Italian dinner. Robyn had pasta, and I had pizza, both of us drinking Italian wine- so delicious! The second day we met up with a travel buddy from Canada, named Kevin. We then explored the other side of Venice, right on the coast line. We saw San Marco square, went up in this tower which had an amazing view of Venice and all the waterways, then walked around on the Malicon to a park on the edge of town. A park with no grass. Apparently the park was hosting an art show that cost €12 to get into, and there was no way we were spending that money on art instead of food. So we go and walk around the local side of Venice and see how the Italians live. Very quaint. We got lost of course but stumbled upon a quite island with a very leaning tower and a charming square. Robyn and I wanted to get a gondola ride through the canals- this was, however ludicrously expensive. €100 for a half hour. Insane. So that did not happen.
Another very neat thing about Venice are these masks that are sold everywhere, ornate and beautiful, meant for masquerades. Robyn and I went to try one on, wanting to actually buy one. And then the guy sitting on his ass watching us yelled at us, saying, 'You touch it, you buy it.' Naturally, I get all haughty and leave immediately- jackass. Really? Not a fan. So no masks for us, thanks to grumpy gills.
The only things to do in Venice, it seemed, were shop and eat. And take lots of siesta time (yay siesta time!). So...that's what we did. I'm glad to be moving on to another place though, to be doing things again. I'm getting sick of seeing pretty churches- I don't think any of them could compare to Westminster or St. Paul's. All the damn pretty churches...Oi.
So I went to this pharmacia to get something for this wicked cough I have. I have had it for about a month now, and I am inclined to believe it is a mild case of bronchitis. Sadly, I don't speak Italian, so I don't really know what medication they gave me. I'm quite certain it's just a cough suppressant- I NEED ANTIBIOTICS! I have yet to figure out what I'm going to do about that. Crazy Italians.
I can't say I particularly enjoy how loud the general population is. Everyone seems to be yelling here...all the time. HELLO, HOW ARE YOU, DEAR FRIEND? Quiet, you! The children are demons here- so whiny, and wild! Do people not discipline their offspring here? Wild, wild demon children! I much prefer the quiet regards of a Brit. So polite...so quiet.
The males here are nothing to write home about. Nor the females. I would rate Venice on my scale of general attractiveness at a 5.5/10. Boring.
Robyn and I have both gotten these strange red bumps on our arms...I really have no idea what they are, if they are bed bugs (oh my god...-dies-), or some type of reaction to the water here. Every time I see someone drink the water I die inside a little. Do you know all the bacteria in this water?! So unclean! I absolutely despise any kind of skin irritation...it is driving me nuts. I hope they just go away.
Yesterday was our last day in Venice. In the morning we went to this little cafe. I got a piece of tiramisu (which I hadn't tried yet), and what I thought was a cafe mocha. Turns out it was just a cup of melted chocolate. Amazing, but really?! I won't make that mistake again. We spent the day wandering around, getting lost, having siesta time, and having a final supper. We both got calzoni's. Mine came out and was literally the size of my face- I could have worn it as a hat. When it was delivered to me I just started laughing. I still have half left! It is so, so so good though. You can taste that the dough was home made. The most amazing food!
Now we are on our way to Rome. I'm quite excited, we're staying at a little B&B (which, hopefully, we can actually find). After Rome we will be heading off to Naples for a night, and then a little town between Chianti and Firenze. Italy is wonderful!
Just an afterthought- it's incredible that the Italian economy is crashing. They charge you for absolutely everything. I wouldn't be surprised if I receive a bill for breathing.
Blog again soon. Ciao!
-Jessiker
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Vienna #2
Vienna's buildings have a ridiculous amount of detail. Every pillar, archway, roof and everything in between is scattered with ornate details. It looks as if each building took at least ten years to build. It is gorgeous.
Second day in Vienna was better! We woke up to pouring rain and had to walk in it for about half an hour, but then it let up and it was a beautiful day by two pm. We had a latte and snack at Cafe Museum, a nice cafe downtown. Cafe's in Vienna are like an extension of the living room. They have very comfy seats, an intimate setting and delicious pastries. After we took a break for sweets we walked to Stephan's cathedral, one of the most famous sites in Vienna, and hopped on a site-seeing bus. This took us around the city and showed us all the major sites of Vienna. It did not explain a lot about the history of each building or Vienna itself, but at least we got to see what was out there. This took from 230-530, in which there was a break in between and we ended up buying sketchy tickets to a symphony tonight, I hope they are actually tickets.
While we were walking back, we come across a movie cinema and we notice it is playing Harry Potter. So we get in the line and start to get very excited when we realize it is playing in English! And it is out two days before it comes out in Canada! Double score. So we get our tickets, pick up some popcorn and beer (yes you can drink basically everywhere in Europe) and watch the movie. Which was amazing. I had the 'tingles' the entire movie, and cried at least 3 times. It was exactly like the book, and we were just very sad that all the books and movies were now over, we grew up on reading Harry Potter and it finally came to an end. Everyone better go see it, it was amazing.
Walking home after the movie we decide to go and check out what is happening with the jazz festival (a whole area set up downtown with high class food stands, drinks, and then a stage with a big projection screen-do check photo's later) downtown. So we head over to the site in front of the town center (which looks like an ancient cathedral-very ornate details, gothic design) and end up watching part of a symphony. A perfect end to a night!
This morning we went to the train station and booked our night train tickets to Venice- another 11 hour train! Crazy how long trains are here. I guess we are crossing whole countries but this is crazy. After that we walked down one of the most popular shopping streets, pretended to have money and found our way to the museum quartier. We then went to the kunst historisches museum- where there is a lot of art. But not only art but the building its in could be an exhibition on its own. Vast marble staircases, marble columns, ceilings plastered with artwork, as well as ridiculous detail work are found in every nook and cranny. The entranceway gives the impression that you are walking into a grand palace modeled after a cathedral- angels look down on you and the figurines carved into the upper walls cast a spell as you walk in. We saw many paintings by Ruebans and Van Dyck, breathtaking paintings. This museum also had an exhibition on Egypt and some Roman artifacts so we toured through there for a bit.
We walked around for about an hour after this trying to find a place which sold crepes. This was difficult, it always seems what you want to find never wants you to find it, we ended up getting lost. We did end up finding the holocaust memorial though, over 65,000 austrian jew's were killed in the second world war. We also found one of the most famous cafe's in Vienna, cafe diglas. The crepes were very very sweet so we had to balance this out with a schnitzel. So we went yet again to a legendary Vienna restaurant, figlmuller. The schnitzel's were bigger than a dinner plate. And absolutely delicious. Thank you Austria for having such a great ethnic dish.
Now for the historic story of the trip.
Walking back we stumble upon a crowd at st. Stephan's cathedral. And yet again we go against mother's warning to stay away from crowds, because from our experience crowds equal great things. So we see this crowd and wonder, what is this crowd doing here. So silly. But with our brain power we find clues that lead to the final answer. The kaiser of Austria and Hungary died last week, thus this was his funeral. Obviously we like history, so this means we like to watch history being made. Anywho so we make it in time to watch the march, where many different types of people wearing different types of uniforms march in line in front of the coffin. And yes we did see this coffin. And for those of you who know nothing of Austria (I'm guessing a large percentage) this man, Otto Von Habsburg, was the very last kaiser ever of Austria and Hungary. And he was 98 so wow he made it far. May his soul rest in peace. Which also means this was significant history. Very exciting. I believe this is the equivalent of the queen dying in our country (long live the queen!), so the people were very somber and a few were even crying. It was actually a very sad place to be. We ended up seeing one of his daughters (some lady told us) and we waved and she smiled, therefore we like austrian aristocracy. She was also wearing a sassy hat. Anyways we are now at this concert thing a street vendor sold to us which was suppose to be a symphony with dancers but the stage has 4 chairs and is the size of my bedroom. And just chairs put up in a room. So I'm sure this will be good.. Not.
Second day in Vienna was better! We woke up to pouring rain and had to walk in it for about half an hour, but then it let up and it was a beautiful day by two pm. We had a latte and snack at Cafe Museum, a nice cafe downtown. Cafe's in Vienna are like an extension of the living room. They have very comfy seats, an intimate setting and delicious pastries. After we took a break for sweets we walked to Stephan's cathedral, one of the most famous sites in Vienna, and hopped on a site-seeing bus. This took us around the city and showed us all the major sites of Vienna. It did not explain a lot about the history of each building or Vienna itself, but at least we got to see what was out there. This took from 230-530, in which there was a break in between and we ended up buying sketchy tickets to a symphony tonight, I hope they are actually tickets.
While we were walking back, we come across a movie cinema and we notice it is playing Harry Potter. So we get in the line and start to get very excited when we realize it is playing in English! And it is out two days before it comes out in Canada! Double score. So we get our tickets, pick up some popcorn and beer (yes you can drink basically everywhere in Europe) and watch the movie. Which was amazing. I had the 'tingles' the entire movie, and cried at least 3 times. It was exactly like the book, and we were just very sad that all the books and movies were now over, we grew up on reading Harry Potter and it finally came to an end. Everyone better go see it, it was amazing.
Walking home after the movie we decide to go and check out what is happening with the jazz festival (a whole area set up downtown with high class food stands, drinks, and then a stage with a big projection screen-do check photo's later) downtown. So we head over to the site in front of the town center (which looks like an ancient cathedral-very ornate details, gothic design) and end up watching part of a symphony. A perfect end to a night!
This morning we went to the train station and booked our night train tickets to Venice- another 11 hour train! Crazy how long trains are here. I guess we are crossing whole countries but this is crazy. After that we walked down one of the most popular shopping streets, pretended to have money and found our way to the museum quartier. We then went to the kunst historisches museum- where there is a lot of art. But not only art but the building its in could be an exhibition on its own. Vast marble staircases, marble columns, ceilings plastered with artwork, as well as ridiculous detail work are found in every nook and cranny. The entranceway gives the impression that you are walking into a grand palace modeled after a cathedral- angels look down on you and the figurines carved into the upper walls cast a spell as you walk in. We saw many paintings by Ruebans and Van Dyck, breathtaking paintings. This museum also had an exhibition on Egypt and some Roman artifacts so we toured through there for a bit.
We walked around for about an hour after this trying to find a place which sold crepes. This was difficult, it always seems what you want to find never wants you to find it, we ended up getting lost. We did end up finding the holocaust memorial though, over 65,000 austrian jew's were killed in the second world war. We also found one of the most famous cafe's in Vienna, cafe diglas. The crepes were very very sweet so we had to balance this out with a schnitzel. So we went yet again to a legendary Vienna restaurant, figlmuller. The schnitzel's were bigger than a dinner plate. And absolutely delicious. Thank you Austria for having such a great ethnic dish.
Now for the historic story of the trip.
Walking back we stumble upon a crowd at st. Stephan's cathedral. And yet again we go against mother's warning to stay away from crowds, because from our experience crowds equal great things. So we see this crowd and wonder, what is this crowd doing here. So silly. But with our brain power we find clues that lead to the final answer. The kaiser of Austria and Hungary died last week, thus this was his funeral. Obviously we like history, so this means we like to watch history being made. Anywho so we make it in time to watch the march, where many different types of people wearing different types of uniforms march in line in front of the coffin. And yes we did see this coffin. And for those of you who know nothing of Austria (I'm guessing a large percentage) this man, Otto Von Habsburg, was the very last kaiser ever of Austria and Hungary. And he was 98 so wow he made it far. May his soul rest in peace. Which also means this was significant history. Very exciting. I believe this is the equivalent of the queen dying in our country (long live the queen!), so the people were very somber and a few were even crying. It was actually a very sad place to be. We ended up seeing one of his daughters (some lady told us) and we waved and she smiled, therefore we like austrian aristocracy. She was also wearing a sassy hat. Anyways we are now at this concert thing a street vendor sold to us which was suppose to be a symphony with dancers but the stage has 4 chairs and is the size of my bedroom. And just chairs put up in a room. So I'm sure this will be good.. Not.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Berlin.
Jess here. So since Robyn did Vienna first (yes we're out of order) I suppose I will talk about Berlin. First off, we didn't really plan on going to Berlin- originally it was just a stop over on our way to Auschwitz. Sadly, we were informed that our train had been delayed 2 hours, which meant that we missed the night train to Krakow. And thus, our plan to go to Auschwitz did nor pan out. Instead we got stuck in the beautiful and history-laden city of Berlin. First night we stayed in a beautiful hotel- I was at this point quite pissed off and not the right temperament to run around finding a hostel. So we stayed in a beautiful hotel and watched world news in English (oh how I missed this!). The hotel made me feel very much at home, and a little homesick. The next day we went on an amazing free walking tour and learned so many things about the city. Saw the Reichstag, the Berlin wall, and the car park that was formerly Hitler's underground bunker (where him and Eva Braun committed suicide). Robyn and I were quite at home in a city with so much history, and that which we could follow from previous knowledge. Saw Checkpoint Charlie and attended a Storming of the Bastille commemoration day in Paris Square. Also walked through the Holocaust memorial, which was a field of concrete blocks of different heights. Very effective, the blocks seemed to go on for miles, and to me looked like a field of caskets. There were people, however, that were climbing all over them, which was so incredibly disrespectful. Also saw the university square where the book burning took place under Hitler's rule, of all Jewish authors. There was a memorial representing a mourning woman holding her dead grandson lost in WWII- she had, as the story goes, lost her husband previously in WWI. The roof in the memorial was open, so that when the weather changed, the condition of the statue changed with it- the snow, the rain, the sun. Walked by the hotel where Michael Jackson dangled his child out the window- €1,000-18,000 per night, by the way. Berlin was a wonderful experience, a wonderful accident. The train ride to Vienna was beautiful as well. They grow a lot of sunflowers here and the fields are amazing! There are so many trees and tiny little plots of land. This place is so very dear to me.
-Jess
-Jess
Friday, July 15, 2011
Vienna thus far.
We arrived in Vienna yesterday after an amazing 10 hour train ride across Germany and Austria. The scenery was just gorgeous, Bavaria is definitely a place I want to visit before I die. Anyways we get here and have to try and locate our hostel, which ends up being about 15 blocks from the train station. We are going to have crazy back muscles by the end of this. We are not staying in the nice part of Vienna, but the bad parts are even nice. Our street is one of the main streets that leads you to the area where more of the tourist spots are which is nice. All the buildings we have seen, with the exception of a few, are old with charming architecture. Our hostel on the other hand is not so charming. Our window is broken, we are on the main level so this is sketchy, it's very old and dated, the sheets are made of tablecloth material and the wifi is extremely temperamental. And our room isn't actually connected to the main hostel, it's down the street and around the corner, so quite far away if we need anything. A lot of loud teenagers as well, what I seem to think are school groups. They don't sleep, therefore since we hear everything neither do we. Apart from our hostel though Vienna is amazing. We went for a walk after we arrived and got situated, so around 7, and ran into the parliament and a jazz festival. We stayed there for a bit, listened to one band and decided we needed to dress warmer. We go back to our hostel and depart once more, get to the parliament and a huge freak storm hits. Anyone who knows me knows I don't like being outside during storms so I had a little heart attack. Not to mention the lightning hit the building across the street from us, we actually felt heat from the hit, so I was a tad uneasy about being stuck outside. We took refuge under a doorway on the side of the parliament building where the rain couldn't hit us. Vienna is situated in a valley between large hills, so the thunder was extremely loud. We watched this storm for about 10 minutes, I've never seen such a lightning show in my life. I hope this doesn't happen again. After this we decided it would be best not to go to the jazz show, if it was even still on, so we found an indian restaurant and had a great meal. And then tried to go to sleep. And that was our first day in Vienna! Byyyeeee
Bremen!!
Hello everyone! Sorry for the lack of blogs as of late. A lot has happened, as you can all expect, since the last time we blogged.
We were in Bremen, for those of you who don't know where this is, it is in northern Germany, for 5 days and saw and did a lot. Mainly due to the great hospitality of Rudolf and Renate, who took us kindly into their home and showed us around the area, fed us amazing food (we gained back all the weight we lost in London) and shared their expertise of the area with us. The first day we arrived around 4 and after we got situated we went for a walk in kloops (?) park, which was very close to their charming home. This park was about as whimsical as a fairy-tail novel, the views of the river Lesum mixed with the old trees, small ponds (yes ducks and frogs!) and trails made me think of little red riding hood walking through the forest. The next day we made the short journey to Bremerhaven, which is actually the harbor where my family departed to go to Canada. There we went to an immigration museum, which was done very well and made you feel like you were about to make the journey to the new world. It even gave you the opportunity to dress up like an immigrant! I learned a lot of facts about immigration, and we even found a document that named the boat that some of my family travelled on to Canada. After the museum we walked around the harbor, saw a submarine that was made during world war II, and went to a mediterranean themed shopping mall. We stopped at the fish market and got fresh fish, which we cooked that evening-very delicious- Renate and Rudolf are fantastic cooks.
On Saturday we met up with Suzanna and we all went to downtown Bremen to see the historic districts where most houses were built in the 1700's, and remarkably not damaged during the war. We saw the famous chicken on a cat on a dog on a donkey (the town musicians) statue, ate our first bratwurst, and had a nice glass of white wine in a fine cellar right in the middle of the market square. That night Martina took us to a music festival that was on the river banks, many local bands were playing and we watched one that was from turkey as well! It was nice to do something that the locals were doing and it gave us an opportunity to listen to the local artists, who were actually really good. It would have helped for sure if we could speak and understand German, but especially with music this isn't completely necessary it's more about the tune, knowing the lyrics is more of a bonus. We also had our first falafel at this festival and drank local beer (becks) which is from bremen!
On Sunday we went to this historical town called Worpswede, situated about 20 km away from Rudolf and Renate's home in Lesum. This was a charming drive, we got to see the country side- btw their cows are all the cute black and white ones, no brown cows there!!-which is completely different from our countryside back home. Obviously they have more trees, and what seems to be about 20 different species of trees more than Canada. They farm, but their crops are very small, probably for every crop we do, they would have 10 in that space. They farm a lot of corn. Anyways back to this amazing little town. It was where artists went to paint, so there is a huge artists community there. The weekend we went they were having a showcase of all the artists in the area, so we saw a lot of beautiful sculptures and paintings. Jess and I are not huge art people so we were more interested in the architecture of the old converted farm houses where all these galleries were. The houses had so much character, the whole town just oozed of it. It was as if we were walking in a postcard. Which is how most of Germany is- gorgeous enough to be on a postcard. That night we went to an amazing restaurant, with very cool architecture, called the Kaffe Worpswede. We had a 3 course meal which was to die for and made for an amazing sleep.
On Monday we toured around a 3 mast sailing ship called the Schulschiff Deutschland. It is a gorgeous ship that is used to train sailors. It was very neat to go on such a large sailing ship, and made us want to go sailing. We met up with Ingrid there, and it was very nice to see more of my Germany family. She is a busy worker so I definitely appreciate her taking the time to meet up with us! That night, because of their great hospitality, we treated Ruldolf and Renate to a dinner in the market square of Lesum. We all had pasta and the restaurant had huge portion sizes so we had to go for a long walk around the town and country to work it off. We first went to the church, which dates back almost a thousand years, and then we walked through the old farm houses and into the beautiful country. I honestly did not think things would look so differently but I am being proved wrong everywhere we go. It is honestly breathtaking some of the sights we have seen. Germany was an amazing stop, and anyone who is traveling to Europe I suggest stopping in one of the smaller towns to get the proper feel for the country.
We were in Bremen, for those of you who don't know where this is, it is in northern Germany, for 5 days and saw and did a lot. Mainly due to the great hospitality of Rudolf and Renate, who took us kindly into their home and showed us around the area, fed us amazing food (we gained back all the weight we lost in London) and shared their expertise of the area with us. The first day we arrived around 4 and after we got situated we went for a walk in kloops (?) park, which was very close to their charming home. This park was about as whimsical as a fairy-tail novel, the views of the river Lesum mixed with the old trees, small ponds (yes ducks and frogs!) and trails made me think of little red riding hood walking through the forest. The next day we made the short journey to Bremerhaven, which is actually the harbor where my family departed to go to Canada. There we went to an immigration museum, which was done very well and made you feel like you were about to make the journey to the new world. It even gave you the opportunity to dress up like an immigrant! I learned a lot of facts about immigration, and we even found a document that named the boat that some of my family travelled on to Canada. After the museum we walked around the harbor, saw a submarine that was made during world war II, and went to a mediterranean themed shopping mall. We stopped at the fish market and got fresh fish, which we cooked that evening-very delicious- Renate and Rudolf are fantastic cooks.
On Saturday we met up with Suzanna and we all went to downtown Bremen to see the historic districts where most houses were built in the 1700's, and remarkably not damaged during the war. We saw the famous chicken on a cat on a dog on a donkey (the town musicians) statue, ate our first bratwurst, and had a nice glass of white wine in a fine cellar right in the middle of the market square. That night Martina took us to a music festival that was on the river banks, many local bands were playing and we watched one that was from turkey as well! It was nice to do something that the locals were doing and it gave us an opportunity to listen to the local artists, who were actually really good. It would have helped for sure if we could speak and understand German, but especially with music this isn't completely necessary it's more about the tune, knowing the lyrics is more of a bonus. We also had our first falafel at this festival and drank local beer (becks) which is from bremen!
On Sunday we went to this historical town called Worpswede, situated about 20 km away from Rudolf and Renate's home in Lesum. This was a charming drive, we got to see the country side- btw their cows are all the cute black and white ones, no brown cows there!!-which is completely different from our countryside back home. Obviously they have more trees, and what seems to be about 20 different species of trees more than Canada. They farm, but their crops are very small, probably for every crop we do, they would have 10 in that space. They farm a lot of corn. Anyways back to this amazing little town. It was where artists went to paint, so there is a huge artists community there. The weekend we went they were having a showcase of all the artists in the area, so we saw a lot of beautiful sculptures and paintings. Jess and I are not huge art people so we were more interested in the architecture of the old converted farm houses where all these galleries were. The houses had so much character, the whole town just oozed of it. It was as if we were walking in a postcard. Which is how most of Germany is- gorgeous enough to be on a postcard. That night we went to an amazing restaurant, with very cool architecture, called the Kaffe Worpswede. We had a 3 course meal which was to die for and made for an amazing sleep.
On Monday we toured around a 3 mast sailing ship called the Schulschiff Deutschland. It is a gorgeous ship that is used to train sailors. It was very neat to go on such a large sailing ship, and made us want to go sailing. We met up with Ingrid there, and it was very nice to see more of my Germany family. She is a busy worker so I definitely appreciate her taking the time to meet up with us! That night, because of their great hospitality, we treated Ruldolf and Renate to a dinner in the market square of Lesum. We all had pasta and the restaurant had huge portion sizes so we had to go for a long walk around the town and country to work it off. We first went to the church, which dates back almost a thousand years, and then we walked through the old farm houses and into the beautiful country. I honestly did not think things would look so differently but I am being proved wrong everywhere we go. It is honestly breathtaking some of the sights we have seen. Germany was an amazing stop, and anyone who is traveling to Europe I suggest stopping in one of the smaller towns to get the proper feel for the country.
Friday, July 08, 2011
Koffie, krokets, and koffiebroodjes!
Our trip to Holland was wonderful! The city of Amsterdam is absolutely beautiful, with all of the canals and bridges. The houses are so neat as well. Putten, actually where my grandfather lived, is incredible. The most charming small town with endearing little houses and well-kept yards (amazingly so!). Being in Holland has really made me miss my grandmother, and my grandfather. I love Holland. Everything is so green in the country side, and a lot of horses too actually. I can't possibly write down all the interesting things we did (Anne Frank Huis). Anyway. We're just in Bremen right now visiting Robyns' family. It is so incredibly nice to have home cooked meals again, and sleep in my own room without anyone snoring! I can't describe how wonderful it is. Rudolph and Renate are so very wonderful, kind, so accommodating, and lovely to visit with. We are both very thankful they've made time to show us around their area and spend time with us. Went to the harbor today, saw the immigration museum. Quite interesting, Robyn had family that emigrated from there. Picked up fresh fish and Renate and Rudolph may a wonderful dinner. Germany is also incredibly green, beautiful, and no mosquitoes! We are so happy to be here. And next, Auschwitz. Blog again soon.
-Jess
-Jess
Wednesday, July 06, 2011
Amsterdam
So we are in Amsterdam, we got here 2 nights ago and it's been pretty rowdy. The first impression of Amsterdam was brutal and I instantly missed London. The street our hostel is on has around 7 'coffee' shops, 4 sex shops, live 'shows' a gay porn theatre and a condom shop. But the first night we got here made up for it, we were sitting in the pub (the winston-amazing pub, great music and cheap drinks) which is connected to our hostel, and a bunch of guys from London came and sat with us. We end up walking all around the red light district that night (I'm super glad we had guys there with us-there are really creepy people everywhere over there) and saw all the girls in the windows, and went into a few sex shops. Just a crazy crazy place. I imagined it being more touristy and less real (about 95% of the people we saw were guys, the only girls we saw were obviously the hookers and people like us who just went to see what it really was). We saw guys go into the rooms, just so dirty. Anyways we have a few drinks, walk around and go to a few clubs and experience the Amsterdam night life. Yesterday we saw more of the nice side of Amsterdam, we went for a walk around and saw all the canals, the Anne Frank house, and all the cute houses around. We went into a few Delf shops as well! Super expensive but gorgeous stuff. Last night we went on a canal tour which was neat, learned a lot about the history of amsterdam. We also went to the sex museum which was more like a huge house full of porn than a museum but oh well. Today we took a train to a little town called Putten, which is where Jesska's grandma lived before she came to Canada. It was so charming, all the houses had super nice trimmed gardens, people all smiled and said hi, it was super small so we saw a few tractors driving down the main strip, it reminded me a bit of home! And as you get more towards the outskirts of the town you start to see little fields with sheep or waterbuffalo or crops which added to the character. Very lovely town. Anyways we are about to go eat some pancakes for dinner and hopefully wake up early enough tomorrow to see the Anne Frank house- the lines are ridiculous. And then off to bremen tomorrow morning!! Peace and blessanngss.
Sunday, July 03, 2011
'Gonna meet Peter at the Perk...'
So today was our last full day in London and we are very sad for it. I absolutely love this city, would never hesitate to live here, and I'm sure Robyn feels the same way. We had our last meal, British roast (which is a tradition every Sunday). Very sad to be leaving this beautiful, lively, and glorious city. But the last couple days here have been so amazing. Thursday was Arcade Fire and Mumford and Sons at Hyde Park. Concerts are a little different here, less massive-stadium-insanity and more what I imagine Woodstock would have been like in the 60's. Needless to say, amazing. Both bands were absolutely incredible. Even though there was a very intoxicated British female that took all my patience not to punch in the face. But the concert was incredible. Next day we did Windsor, which we both agreed was the most beautiful palace we've seen yet. Partially inhabited by the Queen though, so there was a lot of the palace that was closed. Another great thing about Windsor was that king Henry VIII and Jane seymore was buried there so we got to see their grave. That evening was CANADA DAY! Wheu! I was so impressed with the festivities that occurred in Trafalgar Square. Really it was just an excuse for the locals to get smashed. But there were so many people, it was a lot of fun. Even though there were some nasty creepy Turkish men that were trying to ask where we were staying- hey, fuck off, you sex traffickers. Made me angry. But! Otherwise, the evening was wonderful. Saturday we made a day trip to Oxford. As Robyn already said, we ate at Jamie Oliver's restaurant, which was...I died inside a little. I can't even explain. God. So amazing. But the trip to Oxford Unoversity was the most special thing to me that day. I can't even imagine actually attending university there, so beautiful, so much history. It actually made me quite melancholic. Like one of those dreams that you can see but know is not practical. It was amazing, but for me- very disheartening. Still though, I want to go. I'm stubborn that way. Tomorrow is our official last day in London, our flight leaves at 3:15. I am going to the Hyde Park stables to go for a ride around the park. I am SO excited for this- I can't think of a better way to finisb off London than a ride in the park. Maybe I'll meet Peter there...with my breasezez all pushed up. Heheh. Sorry for those who don't understand this reference. Too BAD FOR YOU. Anyhow. Excited for Amsterdam tomorrow! Will keep you posted. Peace and blessangs, peace and blessangs.
The best food baby ever.
Hi friends and family. Robyn here to explain half of yesterday's adventure. So yesterday we went to oxford- quite the confusing town and hard to navigate around so we just decided to start walking and hope we end up somewhere good. This always seems to work, it's how we found big ben and the globe, and on an equally grand scale it is how we found Jamie Oliver's restaurant. Anyone who kind of knows me knows how much I am a fan of Jamie. His passion for food is beyond amazing, and just look at him he is cute as a button. Anyways we are walking down the street and I see it on the corner and almost peed my pants I was that excited. But too intimidated to actually go in. Until later that day when I knew I would regret it for a very long time if I didn't go in, so I walk in like it's the most normal thing in the world to walk into the restaurant of my biggest crush, trying to stay composed but I am almost crying because I am so happy. We sit down and the whole atmosphere of the place is just amazing, the decode is super county and down to earth, the food we order was absolutely delicious and not even terribly expensive and our server (actually a manager) is really nice and even offered to give us a tour and take us out for a few drinks, but sadly we didn't actually take him up on this, I'm sure Jamie wouldn't have been there. The dessert was to die for. I had a Tuscan mess Aka meringues and whipped cream and berries all mixed together. So so good. The best food baby ever.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)