Greece & Italy

This past week, I was so lucky to be able to travel to Greece [Athens] and Italy [Pisa, Venice, Florence, and Rome]. I don't even know where to start... I loved Athens. Most people talk about how much they don't like the city, but I really didn't mind it at all. We stayed close to all the shops, restaurants, and flea markets in the city, and the balcony of our hotel looked straight out to the Acropolis. The Acropolis was incredible. I loved walking up the stone path to the top, and being able to see the Parthenon, as well as the first olive tree. The view from the top was breathtaking. I had to keep reminding myself to put down my camera, take a breath, and soak in the moment. From Athens, we ventured off to Italy. On our way to Venice, we stopped off to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa and eat some Italian pizza. Venice was beautiful. It was just like I imagined... I little sea village with gondola rides, Venetian masquerade masks, and delectable foods. Although we were only there for an afternoon, it was just enough time to fall in love. I can't wait to go back and visit someday. When we arrived in Florence, the atmosphere immediately became a little less calming and peaceful, and turned to vibrant excitement. Florence was celebrating the 150th Day of the Unification of Italy. Everywhere I turned there was Italian pride. The flag lit up in lights. The bands. The parades. The music. The foods. I love Italy :) I ate at a little whole-in-the-wall restaurant and had some amazing Italian soup, spinach, bread and olive oil, and red wine. [I miss my Momma's soup :(] It was better than any pasta dish I ordered all week! After Florence, we went to Rome. It was kind of strange, but I think I liked Rome better when I went the first time. This weekend, there was a huge marathon in Rome, so everywhere was packed. I loved seeing the Vatican and St. Peter's Basilica, the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and Spanish Stairs again, but other than that, Rome was a little too busy and touristy for me. I think my next visit will be to Tuscany or some little village on the coast.

I know I should probably write more details about my trip, but I've been home for less than 24 hours, and in about 30 minutes a taxi will be coming to my apartment to pick up a few of my friends and me to start another adventure! We'll be in London, Edinburg, Dublin and Galway until April 4th. I'm even more excited about this trip than ever. I love that I'll be traveling without technology, detached from one world and completely submerged in another. A world of new thoughts, sights, people, conversations. Of revelations and greater appreciations. I'm so blessed to be able to experience all that I do.

Pictures to come!