I switched up breakfast this morning and ate with Caroline and Helen and Taylor. This is one of the few times I haven't eaten with Godfrey, and things just didn't seem right during breakfast. I guess I shouldn't break tradition.
We started the day with a coach tour of Athens, during which we saw the Presidential Mansion and the Cathedral of Athens. We also visited the Acropolis , which is an awesome site. It was a very cool experience, even if the weather was extremely cold. It should be noted here that in Athens, no one takes care of their dogs, they just let them roam the streets. The Acropolis was full of stray dogs, the majority of which were nice. One of them did attempt to bite Lisa, but it didn't have any teeth.
After visiting the actual Acropolis, we visited the Acropolis Museum. This museum has glass floors so you can see the excavation beneath. This is fairly cool on the first floor, but terrifying on the third floor. I enjoyed this museum and its exhibits, but the floor was a little distracting.
I ate lunch with Dr. Economy, and managed to get the steal of a lifetime, getting a coke and a gyro for 4 euros. Greece has definitely had my favorite food of this trip. In fact, Greek food is so good that this meal was the first time I saw Cates Saleeby clean her plate. Cates has a stomach the size of a hummingbird's, so she usually doesn't finish all of her food. I was proud of her, but also slightly disappointed, because I usually eat her leftovers.
After lunch, we split up for free time. I went to the Athens flea market and bought myself a nice pair of knockoff Clarks for 30 euros. This was my first purchase of the entire trip. I'm thrifty. I also went to a mcdonald's for the first time in two weeks. I bought a mcflurry, and it was amazing to say the least.
After eating dinner (and losing my mother and Lisa for a short period of time), we went to some sort of Greek dance show. I spent the majority of my time here making an ass of myself dancing (pardon my french). Let's just say I'm a little TOO good at the Macarena.
We met another English speaking tour group at this event. Here is how that conversation went.
Girl:Where are you guys from?
Chloe:South Carolina, you?
Girl:We're from Canada.
Me:I'm sorry to hear that.
I apologized after making this comment, because these people were the polite kind of canadian, not the self righteous kind. We ended the night on the bus driving back to the hotel, during which time Godfrey, Michael and I quoted Hot Rod and Caroline sang a song about wanting Sonic tater tots. Yes, this really happened.
Well, this is my last daily report. I will however continue to update the blog with some other posts and pictures when I get back. I would like to thank Mrs. Vero for organizing this trip, Alex for being an awesome tour guide, and my mother for allowing me to come on this trip. I would also like to thank everyone who read these daily posts, I appreciate your comments which provide for my daily ego boost. I hope you enjoyed reading about my journeys.
Lastly, to the tour group as a whole, I loved spending 2 weeks in Europe with you guys. We have endured cramped living spaces, train robbers, bad dinners, and long boat and plane rides together. I may have complained about most of you at some point in the blog, but I really have enjoyed these past 2 weeks. It's been real, guys. Now let's get the heck back to America.
P.S. In case anyone was wondering, the first place I plan on eating at back home is Bojangles.
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Monday, April 9, 2012
Day 11-Athens!
Like every morning of this trip, I woke up and ate breakfast with Godfrey. After breakfast, we headed out to the site of the ancient town of Delphi. Our tour guide at Delphi was the best tour guide of the entire trip, as she neither smelled awfully nor was she completely ignorant of the subject she was telling us about. The tour was great but the view from Delphi alone was enough to warrant a visit. I have plenty of pictures I will be sure to post when I get home. Legit doesn't even begin to describe it.
After visiting Delphi, we began the long ride over to Athens. We stopped to eat lunch along the way, and I ordered the most Greek meal I could think of, lamb chops. My meal selection here in Greece is simple. I order whatever Dr. Economy orders. This method ensures I get the best meal possible.
Arriving in Athens, the first thing one notices is that the entire city smells like a landfill. This is a common theme in european cities. Fresh air is in limited supply over here.
Arriving at our hotel, I was pleased to learn that WiFi is free. It has been free everywhere we have gone in Greece. Every other country in Europe is too cheap to provide free wifi, but Greece gladly does so. Kudos to you Greece.
We planned on beginning our walking tour of Athens shortly after settling in at the hotel, however rain prevented us from doing so. Instead, Godfrey and I marveled at the fact that we had a shower in our bathroom that not only had a door/curtain (the one at the last hotel did not), but was also large enough to perform an entire 360 degree spin inside of comfortably. Our tv also has 2 English speaking channels, which is one more than last time. Life is good.
I spent most of my evening pre-dinner and during dinner conversation discussing various subjects with Cates Saleeby, most notably our favorite conspiracy theories. Cates' favorite involved a theory that a race of lizard people inhabit the center of the earth, while my favorite is probably Time Cube. If you don't know what Time Cube is look it up, you will not be disappointed. Things are never boring over here as you can tell.
After going with my mother to an ATM and a failed attempt at teaching Caroline and Helen how to dance, I ended the night talking to the Economy's, John, and Jenna. Dr. Economy has to be one of the funniest people on this trip, and his stories always make me laugh. Good times.
It is late over here and I should be getting to bed. We have a pretty jam packed day tomorrow and on top of that, a couple of us plan on finding a church to attend tomorrow night for a Holy Week service. Goodnight.
P.S. Father Haros always tells us that over in Europe no churches have pews or chairs. Well after having visited a couple churches here in Greece, I have found that they all have chairs or pews in them! If you are reading this Father, I want to tell you you don't have to remove the pews, it is ok to sit down sometimes.
After visiting Delphi, we began the long ride over to Athens. We stopped to eat lunch along the way, and I ordered the most Greek meal I could think of, lamb chops. My meal selection here in Greece is simple. I order whatever Dr. Economy orders. This method ensures I get the best meal possible.
Arriving in Athens, the first thing one notices is that the entire city smells like a landfill. This is a common theme in european cities. Fresh air is in limited supply over here.
Arriving at our hotel, I was pleased to learn that WiFi is free. It has been free everywhere we have gone in Greece. Every other country in Europe is too cheap to provide free wifi, but Greece gladly does so. Kudos to you Greece.
We planned on beginning our walking tour of Athens shortly after settling in at the hotel, however rain prevented us from doing so. Instead, Godfrey and I marveled at the fact that we had a shower in our bathroom that not only had a door/curtain (the one at the last hotel did not), but was also large enough to perform an entire 360 degree spin inside of comfortably. Our tv also has 2 English speaking channels, which is one more than last time. Life is good.
I spent most of my evening pre-dinner and during dinner conversation discussing various subjects with Cates Saleeby, most notably our favorite conspiracy theories. Cates' favorite involved a theory that a race of lizard people inhabit the center of the earth, while my favorite is probably Time Cube. If you don't know what Time Cube is look it up, you will not be disappointed. Things are never boring over here as you can tell.
After going with my mother to an ATM and a failed attempt at teaching Caroline and Helen how to dance, I ended the night talking to the Economy's, John, and Jenna. Dr. Economy has to be one of the funniest people on this trip, and his stories always make me laugh. Good times.
It is late over here and I should be getting to bed. We have a pretty jam packed day tomorrow and on top of that, a couple of us plan on finding a church to attend tomorrow night for a Holy Week service. Goodnight.
P.S. Father Haros always tells us that over in Europe no churches have pews or chairs. Well after having visited a couple churches here in Greece, I have found that they all have chairs or pews in them! If you are reading this Father, I want to tell you you don't have to remove the pews, it is ok to sit down sometimes.
Sunday, April 8, 2012
Day 9-Pompeii and the ferry ride
Yesterday began with another breakfast of cereal. Milk in Europe is served at room temperature, and the one thing I miss most about America is cold milk. Well, I miss my family too, but the milk is important. From here we took a nice bus ride from Sorrento to Pompeii.
Pompeii was interesting, and getting to see the ruins of a well preserved Roman city was very cool. For someone who enjoys history as much as I do, Pompeii is a great place to visit. However, the actual tour takes a backseat to the miserable weather we endured. It rained the entire day, and Caroline and I's European rain coats turned out to be water absorbing instead of water repelling. We spent the entire tour shivering in our rain soaked clothes. We finally got to go back to the bus and change, but not before I bought an awful Italian pullover to wear as a shirt, since my original was soaked. Smart decision on my part.
After Pompeii we took a bus ride to the port for our ferry to Greece. It should be mentioned here that when Caroline Naso gets bored, she turns into a 5 year old. She will of course disagree, but we all know it is true.
We made it to our boat, the SuperFast II (apparently SuperFast I wasn't fast enough) and ate dinner there. It is worth mentioning that at every meal I have eaten with Cates Saleeby on this trip, I have been the perfect gentleman. This is because Cates and Phyllis are the only two people who haven't angered me once this trip. Thank you for that, ladies.
After dinner I went unibrow hunting, and spotted 6 in one room alone. Nearly everyone in Greece has or had a unibrow at one time. I feel right at home with my thick eyebrows. I also played an intense game of Virtua NBA '99 against Helen. My New Jersey Nets defeated Helen's Vancouver Grizzlies 28-13. Sounds like a JV girls game.
While we were doing this, the parents were having a wild party. By wild party, I mean all the adults sat in a room telling stories of their kids and drinking wine. A real rager, it was.
We ended the night ringing in western easter with a candy party. We primarily threw it for Helen, who gave up candy for lent. Being in Greece at that point however, it was Palm Sunday in the Orthodox Church due to calendar differences. You deserved it anyways, Helen. I am tired and need my sleep, goodnight.
P.S. During lunch, some creepy italian man played guitar and sang to us. This man was the equivalent of an Italian Esteban. He also had Dr. Economy join with him in song. It was one of the strangest experiences of this trip, and that is saying something.
Pompeii was interesting, and getting to see the ruins of a well preserved Roman city was very cool. For someone who enjoys history as much as I do, Pompeii is a great place to visit. However, the actual tour takes a backseat to the miserable weather we endured. It rained the entire day, and Caroline and I's European rain coats turned out to be water absorbing instead of water repelling. We spent the entire tour shivering in our rain soaked clothes. We finally got to go back to the bus and change, but not before I bought an awful Italian pullover to wear as a shirt, since my original was soaked. Smart decision on my part.
After Pompeii we took a bus ride to the port for our ferry to Greece. It should be mentioned here that when Caroline Naso gets bored, she turns into a 5 year old. She will of course disagree, but we all know it is true.
We made it to our boat, the SuperFast II (apparently SuperFast I wasn't fast enough) and ate dinner there. It is worth mentioning that at every meal I have eaten with Cates Saleeby on this trip, I have been the perfect gentleman. This is because Cates and Phyllis are the only two people who haven't angered me once this trip. Thank you for that, ladies.
After dinner I went unibrow hunting, and spotted 6 in one room alone. Nearly everyone in Greece has or had a unibrow at one time. I feel right at home with my thick eyebrows. I also played an intense game of Virtua NBA '99 against Helen. My New Jersey Nets defeated Helen's Vancouver Grizzlies 28-13. Sounds like a JV girls game.
While we were doing this, the parents were having a wild party. By wild party, I mean all the adults sat in a room telling stories of their kids and drinking wine. A real rager, it was.
We ended the night ringing in western easter with a candy party. We primarily threw it for Helen, who gave up candy for lent. Being in Greece at that point however, it was Palm Sunday in the Orthodox Church due to calendar differences. You deserved it anyways, Helen. I am tired and need my sleep, goodnight.
P.S. During lunch, some creepy italian man played guitar and sang to us. This man was the equivalent of an Italian Esteban. He also had Dr. Economy join with him in song. It was one of the strangest experiences of this trip, and that is saying something.
Day 10-Greece!
I would start today out by talking about breakfast, but our ferry cabin slept through it. We slept to 10:15, which was really nice. Our boat landed at 1:00, which gave us plenty of time to sit around on the boat. I read a little, but spent most of my time watching the Greek version of Curb your Enthusiasm. I spent a little time watching Easter Mass in St. Peter's square, during which I heard some Canadians who were also on our boat refer to the education priests go through as "cemetery" instead of seminary. I'm done.
The first place we visited was the Church of St. Andrew in Patras. I have now seen The Cathedral of Notre Dame, the Basilica Santa Maria ad Martyres, and the Sistine Chapel, but St. Andrew's is the most beautiful church of them all. The inside was absolutely amazing, and getting to see the relics of St. Andrew, one of the 12 disciples, was an awesome experience. Take notes western Christendom, the Orthodox do it big.
We took a short drive to the town of Delphi, which is built literally into the side of a mountain. I don't think a single road in Greece is not built into the side of a mountain. Our driver, Demetrius, whipped a U turn off the side of a cliff. We also almost got hit head on by the Greek equivalent of a U-haul truck. It was terrifying. Road signs in Greece are merely suggestions.
The hotel in Delphi was very nice, and it was the only place with free wifi. I wasn't very impressed with dinner, so after our meal I went across the street to get a gyro. Helen and Caroline felt sick during dinner, so they also ate here with me. A greasy gyro seems to be the natural remedy for an uneasy stomach. I had to coach Helen through ordering her food, because she had no idea what a gyro or souvlaki was. Also, I felt it was my duty to protect everyone from the man behind the counter who looked like smeagle. I'm not kidding.
We are headed to Athens now, and I want to get some sleep on this bus ride. Until next time.
P.S. I'm fairly sure all Greek people know or are related to all other greek people. Eating lunch, Dr. Economy struck up with a conversation with a random man who knew Dr. Economy's relatives from the village his great grandparents lived in. Crazy stuff.
P.P.S. Once again, Caroline asked to post something in this spot and forgot.
The first place we visited was the Church of St. Andrew in Patras. I have now seen The Cathedral of Notre Dame, the Basilica Santa Maria ad Martyres, and the Sistine Chapel, but St. Andrew's is the most beautiful church of them all. The inside was absolutely amazing, and getting to see the relics of St. Andrew, one of the 12 disciples, was an awesome experience. Take notes western Christendom, the Orthodox do it big.
We took a short drive to the town of Delphi, which is built literally into the side of a mountain. I don't think a single road in Greece is not built into the side of a mountain. Our driver, Demetrius, whipped a U turn off the side of a cliff. We also almost got hit head on by the Greek equivalent of a U-haul truck. It was terrifying. Road signs in Greece are merely suggestions.
The hotel in Delphi was very nice, and it was the only place with free wifi. I wasn't very impressed with dinner, so after our meal I went across the street to get a gyro. Helen and Caroline felt sick during dinner, so they also ate here with me. A greasy gyro seems to be the natural remedy for an uneasy stomach. I had to coach Helen through ordering her food, because she had no idea what a gyro or souvlaki was. Also, I felt it was my duty to protect everyone from the man behind the counter who looked like smeagle. I'm not kidding.
We are headed to Athens now, and I want to get some sleep on this bus ride. Until next time.
P.S. I'm fairly sure all Greek people know or are related to all other greek people. Eating lunch, Dr. Economy struck up with a conversation with a random man who knew Dr. Economy's relatives from the village his great grandparents lived in. Crazy stuff.
P.P.S. Once again, Caroline asked to post something in this spot and forgot.
Day 8-Sorrento
Yesterday started out with breakfast as usual with Godfrey. After that, we headed out to the city of Naples. Alex told us Naples was a dirty city full of crime and corruption, and from the 30 minutes we spent there, I came to the same consensus. We took a boat to Capri, where we took another boat to get inside the cave known as the blue grotto. Our tour guide smelled of cheap perfume and wore too much makeup, but otherwise, it was a fun time. Going into the blue grotto in a row boat was an interesting experience. The man rowing our boat pulled us into the tiny cave with a matrix like back bend. On the way out, he elbowed Joe in the face with this move. It was painfully hilarious.
After this we took another boat to Sorrento, where we toured a Woodworking factory. I was hoping to purchase a handmade canoe here, but my mom quickly shot down that plan. Thanks for crushing my dreams, Tracy. I'm done. The group went for gelato after this, which leads me to another point. We are buying gelato at the same pace the women are buying scarfs, after every meal/3x a day. It's a bit ridiculous.
We went to our hotel to end the day and eat dinner. Our hotel was on the side of the cliff, which terrified Godfrey and me. Michael constantly reminded us how high up we were on the bus ride, while we reminded him that the bus was moving faster than 12 miles per hour. This was too much for Michael's womanly stomach and resulted in him throwing up everywhere. Great job, Rockito. Dinner was an awful experience, as the wait staff at the hotel had no idea what they were doing. TURRIBLE. We did get to see a Catholic reenactment service of Jesus' burial, which was awesome.
The night ended with most of us chatting down by the pool. We were surrounded by a group of really obnoxious australian students, who so politely flipped us the bird as they went to bed. I politely waved back and told these British rednecks goodnight, and reminded them that Jesus loves them. One of these "blokes" proceeded to tell me Jesus wasn't real. I had to be calmed down from getting into a heated debate with Mr. New Testament Scholar. Stick to making vegemite, bud, history and theology are not your thing. It is super late right now and I'm headed to sleep. Goodnight, all.
P.S. Any credible New Testament scholar believes Jesus existed.
P.P.S. Michael did not actually throw up today. He wanted me to make that fact known. I have to embellish the story a little!
P.P.P.S. Caroline wanted to use this as a guest entry, but she couldn't think of anything to type in time. You snooze you lose, Carol.
After this we took another boat to Sorrento, where we toured a Woodworking factory. I was hoping to purchase a handmade canoe here, but my mom quickly shot down that plan. Thanks for crushing my dreams, Tracy. I'm done. The group went for gelato after this, which leads me to another point. We are buying gelato at the same pace the women are buying scarfs, after every meal/3x a day. It's a bit ridiculous.
We went to our hotel to end the day and eat dinner. Our hotel was on the side of the cliff, which terrified Godfrey and me. Michael constantly reminded us how high up we were on the bus ride, while we reminded him that the bus was moving faster than 12 miles per hour. This was too much for Michael's womanly stomach and resulted in him throwing up everywhere. Great job, Rockito. Dinner was an awful experience, as the wait staff at the hotel had no idea what they were doing. TURRIBLE. We did get to see a Catholic reenactment service of Jesus' burial, which was awesome.
The night ended with most of us chatting down by the pool. We were surrounded by a group of really obnoxious australian students, who so politely flipped us the bird as they went to bed. I politely waved back and told these British rednecks goodnight, and reminded them that Jesus loves them. One of these "blokes" proceeded to tell me Jesus wasn't real. I had to be calmed down from getting into a heated debate with Mr. New Testament Scholar. Stick to making vegemite, bud, history and theology are not your thing. It is super late right now and I'm headed to sleep. Goodnight, all.
P.S. Any credible New Testament scholar believes Jesus existed.
P.P.S. Michael did not actually throw up today. He wanted me to make that fact known. I have to embellish the story a little!
P.P.P.S. Caroline wanted to use this as a guest entry, but she couldn't think of anything to type in time. You snooze you lose, Carol.
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Day 7-a day with St. Peter, Vatican City
I woke up today to what looked like a murder scene in the bathroom. What happened you might ask? John had a nose bleed. He bled everywhere, including on my toothbrush. Thanks John.
After this traumatic experience, I went downstairs to eat breakfast with Godfrey and Dr. Economy. I ate ham and cereal for breakfast, which is a better combo than I first thought. After this it was off to the Vatican.
We arrived at the Vatican where we met our tour guide. This woman was a better tour guide than the one at the colosseum. From here we went through the Vatican museum. It should be noted here that what Will told me was correct, the romans cut the penises off of nude statues. This was a really cool place which was full of rich church history. We also saw the Sistine Chapel, which was much more impressive than the Mona Lisa. Michelangelo is legit to say the least. We did not get to go inside St. Peter's because Mass was being celebrated, but the outside was beautiful. The Vatican is an awesome place.
At the Vatican museum gift shop Godfrey bought a rosary, and he had to be taught how to pray it. He also said he wanted to wear it as a necklace like other people do, but I told him if he did that I would punch him in the face. Phyllis and I also bought Michael Culleton a rosary. Ave Maria.
I accomplished my personal goal of taking a photo with a group of priests today. The two priests I took a photo with were Brazilian and spoke very little English, but they were very polite. Take note Anglican communion, Catholicism is kicking your butt.
After the Vatican, I ate the best meal of the entire trip for lunch. I had veal wrapped in ham and also about half a cheese pizza. It was amazing to say the least. I also developed the worlds greatest gelato combination, coffee and mint chocolate chip. Yum.
At this point, my mother made the awful decision to get a portrait of me drawn. The awful picture portrays me as a 12 year old Jewish boy, which is exactly as I hoped to be drawn. That was a huge waste of money. You can find Godfrey's drawing on facebook, and I highly suggest you check that out. That bad boy is a true beauty.
For dinner we had (big surprise) pasta. It was alright, but once again, the highlight of dinner was Caroline playing with my dessert and getting it everywhere. Tisk tisk.
I'm back at the hotel and it is late, so I'm off to bed. Goodnight all.
P.S. I threw a coin into some fountain I can't remember the name of, which means I will also come back to Rome. I'm loving it over here.
After this traumatic experience, I went downstairs to eat breakfast with Godfrey and Dr. Economy. I ate ham and cereal for breakfast, which is a better combo than I first thought. After this it was off to the Vatican.
We arrived at the Vatican where we met our tour guide. This woman was a better tour guide than the one at the colosseum. From here we went through the Vatican museum. It should be noted here that what Will told me was correct, the romans cut the penises off of nude statues. This was a really cool place which was full of rich church history. We also saw the Sistine Chapel, which was much more impressive than the Mona Lisa. Michelangelo is legit to say the least. We did not get to go inside St. Peter's because Mass was being celebrated, but the outside was beautiful. The Vatican is an awesome place.
At the Vatican museum gift shop Godfrey bought a rosary, and he had to be taught how to pray it. He also said he wanted to wear it as a necklace like other people do, but I told him if he did that I would punch him in the face. Phyllis and I also bought Michael Culleton a rosary. Ave Maria.
I accomplished my personal goal of taking a photo with a group of priests today. The two priests I took a photo with were Brazilian and spoke very little English, but they were very polite. Take note Anglican communion, Catholicism is kicking your butt.
After the Vatican, I ate the best meal of the entire trip for lunch. I had veal wrapped in ham and also about half a cheese pizza. It was amazing to say the least. I also developed the worlds greatest gelato combination, coffee and mint chocolate chip. Yum.
At this point, my mother made the awful decision to get a portrait of me drawn. The awful picture portrays me as a 12 year old Jewish boy, which is exactly as I hoped to be drawn. That was a huge waste of money. You can find Godfrey's drawing on facebook, and I highly suggest you check that out. That bad boy is a true beauty.
For dinner we had (big surprise) pasta. It was alright, but once again, the highlight of dinner was Caroline playing with my dessert and getting it everywhere. Tisk tisk.
I'm back at the hotel and it is late, so I'm off to bed. Goodnight all.
P.S. I threw a coin into some fountain I can't remember the name of, which means I will also come back to Rome. I'm loving it over here.
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
Day 6-Rome!
I woke up this morning and ate breakfast with Godfrey. The hotel here in Florence had a very nice selection to eat from, but I only got bacon and eggs because I'm a man. We then took another 4 hour bus ride to Rome. We stopped twice at a service station on the way and ate lunch at one of them. One thing I have noticed here in Europe is the massive amount of Asian tourists. I have seen more orientals here than I have ever seen in the rest of my life, and everyone of them is extremely rude. That is in no way an exaggeration. I told Michael that Tokyo probably looks like a ghost town right now.
An interesting fact about Italy is that the country has a serious scratch off lottery ticket problem. Everyone here is addicted to the mega millions scratch offs. I saw a special on it in Florence and I got to see it in action today in the gas station. This is not a joke. America ha obesity, Europe has smoking and scratch offs.
We arrived in Rome and immediately took a tour through the Colosseum and Roman Forum. I really enjoyed getting to look through ancient Rome, even if our tour guide for this part was an italian woman who had zero knowledge of church history. She also referred to Judaism as "Hebrahism." I'm done.
We visited a Greek Catholic church afterwards to balance the Pagan influences of ancient Rome with Christian influences of the current Rome. This church also held the relics of St. Valentine. Cool stuff.
We climbed up the Spanish steps after this. Here I not only threatened to knockout a street vendor who would not leave my mother alone, but I also thought a woman who was begging was worshipping a pringles can. A little off on that one. Godfrey and John had a deep conversation on love during this part of the trip too. Modern day philosophers, those two are.
For dinner we had lasagna, which was pretty good. Dessert was tiramisu, which I did not eat. This was mainly due to Caroline playing with my dessert and then throwing some of it at me. Sometimes I feel like I am the most mature person on this trip.
I'm now typing this back at our hotel in Rome. We got the executive suite, which features a broken sink, non flushing toilet, and dirty shower. I'm loving this place right now. It is late now and I am headed off to sleep. Goodnight.
P.S. We visit the Vatican tomorrow, and Godfrey still plans on getting the Pope to bless his fists. Kyrie Eleison.
An interesting fact about Italy is that the country has a serious scratch off lottery ticket problem. Everyone here is addicted to the mega millions scratch offs. I saw a special on it in Florence and I got to see it in action today in the gas station. This is not a joke. America ha obesity, Europe has smoking and scratch offs.
We arrived in Rome and immediately took a tour through the Colosseum and Roman Forum. I really enjoyed getting to look through ancient Rome, even if our tour guide for this part was an italian woman who had zero knowledge of church history. She also referred to Judaism as "Hebrahism." I'm done.
We visited a Greek Catholic church afterwards to balance the Pagan influences of ancient Rome with Christian influences of the current Rome. This church also held the relics of St. Valentine. Cool stuff.
We climbed up the Spanish steps after this. Here I not only threatened to knockout a street vendor who would not leave my mother alone, but I also thought a woman who was begging was worshipping a pringles can. A little off on that one. Godfrey and John had a deep conversation on love during this part of the trip too. Modern day philosophers, those two are.
For dinner we had lasagna, which was pretty good. Dessert was tiramisu, which I did not eat. This was mainly due to Caroline playing with my dessert and then throwing some of it at me. Sometimes I feel like I am the most mature person on this trip.
I'm now typing this back at our hotel in Rome. We got the executive suite, which features a broken sink, non flushing toilet, and dirty shower. I'm loving this place right now. It is late now and I am headed off to sleep. Goodnight.
P.S. We visit the Vatican tomorrow, and Godfrey still plans on getting the Pope to bless his fists. Kyrie Eleison.
Day 5-Train arrival and Florence
First things first, their were robbers on our train. I can't make this up. In the middle of the night, we made a stop in Switzerland so the police could run the robbers off. It would have been much easier had they just let Dr Economy and Godfrey handle the robbers. They were both itching for a fight in France.
We arrived in Milan at 545am and immediately took a bus to Florence, which was a good 4 hour drive. We arrived in Florence and went to our hotel, which is the nicest one so far. This one has a normal sized bathroom AND a tv with 3 english speaking channels. We're pretty much living like royalty.
We began the tour of Florence (or Firenze as the Italians call it) by going over what was essentially a house bridge. Apparently this bridge was about 500 years old, and use to be where butchers in Florence had their shops, but now people live there. After that we checked out the Duomo, but no one felt like going to the top, everyone was too tired. I ate pizza for lunch with Brenne, Pavy, and Godfrey. I know so little Italian that I ended up telling the woman who gave me my food "your welcome" instead of thank you. She just sorta rolled her eyes and I walked off. As you can tell, I'm trying hard not to be the ignorant american.
After lunch came the most important part of the day, scarf shopping. I had my 3 woman scarf committee of Helen, Caroline, and Taylor help me pick out a scarf for myself. I found a good one in a store downtown, and I wore it all day. It's been proven a scarf makes you 50% more attractive, and I looked like I should've been on the cover of GQ. I don't know how to put this, but my scarf and I are kind of a big deal. Just sayin'.
From here we got to tour a real Italian leather shop. I wasn't expecting to meet anyone who lived in Florence that spoke perfect English and was American, but the man who gave our tour was from Minnesota. I bought a new wallet which is 100% Florentine leather. Legit.
All the parents went to a wine tasting with Alex after this, while the kids checked out the street vendors. Seems safe enough. I didn't buy anything here, but I did try and help Caroline find a soccer jersey for Will. I say try because Caroline refused to take my advice to buy her brother an AC Milan, Juventus, or Inter jersey, and instead bought him a jersey of a team I have never heard of. I also think she bought a child's small. I'm sorry your sister doesn't care about you Will. I'm unsure whether this jersey will even fit Ben.
I have no idea where we ate dinner last night, but I do remember it had 3 courses. This was a first. As great as that was, the best thing I ate in Florence was definitely gelato, even if it is just Italian ice cream. We rubbed the nose of a boar statue before leaving the city, which apparently ensures we will come back. I wouldn't mind that, Florence is a nice place.
We ended the night back at the hotel, where John and I got locked out of our room. Godfrey fell asleep while we were hanging out with the group, so we had to travel halfway across the hotel to get to Brenne who had Godfrey's room key. I'm fairly sure Godfrey can sleep through anything.
That's all the goings on in Florence. On the bus to Rome now, and I'm tired of typing. I'll blog again soon.
P.S. Godfrey and John don't know how to use a detachable or rotating shower head. I'm not joking. Nor does Mrs Fisher. I guess it runs in the family.
P.P.S. Despite what people may tell you, gelato and ice cream are pretty much the same thing.
P.P.P.S. I love Caroline and Taylor more than pineapple, and like pineapple very much so.
(This is what happens when I let other people have my iPod)
We arrived in Milan at 545am and immediately took a bus to Florence, which was a good 4 hour drive. We arrived in Florence and went to our hotel, which is the nicest one so far. This one has a normal sized bathroom AND a tv with 3 english speaking channels. We're pretty much living like royalty.
We began the tour of Florence (or Firenze as the Italians call it) by going over what was essentially a house bridge. Apparently this bridge was about 500 years old, and use to be where butchers in Florence had their shops, but now people live there. After that we checked out the Duomo, but no one felt like going to the top, everyone was too tired. I ate pizza for lunch with Brenne, Pavy, and Godfrey. I know so little Italian that I ended up telling the woman who gave me my food "your welcome" instead of thank you. She just sorta rolled her eyes and I walked off. As you can tell, I'm trying hard not to be the ignorant american.
After lunch came the most important part of the day, scarf shopping. I had my 3 woman scarf committee of Helen, Caroline, and Taylor help me pick out a scarf for myself. I found a good one in a store downtown, and I wore it all day. It's been proven a scarf makes you 50% more attractive, and I looked like I should've been on the cover of GQ. I don't know how to put this, but my scarf and I are kind of a big deal. Just sayin'.
From here we got to tour a real Italian leather shop. I wasn't expecting to meet anyone who lived in Florence that spoke perfect English and was American, but the man who gave our tour was from Minnesota. I bought a new wallet which is 100% Florentine leather. Legit.
All the parents went to a wine tasting with Alex after this, while the kids checked out the street vendors. Seems safe enough. I didn't buy anything here, but I did try and help Caroline find a soccer jersey for Will. I say try because Caroline refused to take my advice to buy her brother an AC Milan, Juventus, or Inter jersey, and instead bought him a jersey of a team I have never heard of. I also think she bought a child's small. I'm sorry your sister doesn't care about you Will. I'm unsure whether this jersey will even fit Ben.
I have no idea where we ate dinner last night, but I do remember it had 3 courses. This was a first. As great as that was, the best thing I ate in Florence was definitely gelato, even if it is just Italian ice cream. We rubbed the nose of a boar statue before leaving the city, which apparently ensures we will come back. I wouldn't mind that, Florence is a nice place.
We ended the night back at the hotel, where John and I got locked out of our room. Godfrey fell asleep while we were hanging out with the group, so we had to travel halfway across the hotel to get to Brenne who had Godfrey's room key. I'm fairly sure Godfrey can sleep through anything.
That's all the goings on in Florence. On the bus to Rome now, and I'm tired of typing. I'll blog again soon.
P.S. Godfrey and John don't know how to use a detachable or rotating shower head. I'm not joking. Nor does Mrs Fisher. I guess it runs in the family.
P.P.S. Despite what people may tell you, gelato and ice cream are pretty much the same thing.
P.P.P.S. I love Caroline and Taylor more than pineapple, and like pineapple very much so.
(This is what happens when I let other people have my iPod)
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Day 4-Paris and the Overnight Train
As I lay here on the triple bunk bed on the train to Italy, I begin to reflect on the day's happenings, and what a day it has been. I woke up at 7am once again , this time to the image of Godfrey's rear end in the bed across from mine. Heck of a way to start the morning off. This was a great followup to his snoring during the night. I headed downstairs for a much better breakfast than I had in London, which consisted of bread, ham, and cornflakes. You have no clue how great it was to eat cereal for breakfast. It was certainly the highlight of the morning. After breakfast, we headed onto our guided tour of the city of Paris. Our tour guide was a little old british woman, and she had a voice that could lull anyone to sleep. We checked out the military college Napoleon attended, the Arc d'triumph, the French Academy and the National assembly. Anything after that is a little fuzzy, as the guide's voice made me fall asleep at that point. I remember waking up at some sort of Military Museum and seeing the church Napoleon is buried inside. Next time we shouldn't have a tour guide with such a soothing voice.
After our tour, we ate a delicious lunch of roasted chicken at a restaurant I can't remember the name of. I wish I could be more specific, but I really can't remember. What I do remember in walking in on an Asian man who was using the bathroom at this restaurant and not realizing it was just designed for one person. That was totally not awkward. We followed lunch up with a tour of a perfumery called Fragonard. Sadly they did not sell the perfume I was looking for, which was Sex Panther. I think France is one of the 60 countries it is illegal in. They did sell a cinnamon perfume that smelled exactly like big red, and a fruit scented perfumed that smelled like sunny D. You could get a 1.5 oz vial of this for 26 euros, or about 34 dollars. Seems legit.
We went to Louvre next, where I spent more time searching for exhibits than I did actually looking at any art. I saw the Mona Lisa, and I can't say I was very impressed. Ms Weller told me she cried when she saw it in person, but I had no similar reaction. I noticed that most Greek statues are of naked people, but most roman statues are clothed. Modesty must have been developed around the time of the roman empire. The other notable pieces I saw were the painting of Napoleon I's coronation and Napoleon III's apartments. I heard another American tourist ask if the two Napoleons were related. Yes, I am serious when I say that. I'm done.
Caroline and I managed to lose or forget our rain coats, so we both hurried around during the time before the train ride to buy one. We were hoping to get matching Eiffel tower ponchos, but we sadly couldn't find any. Instead I bought a plain black one and Caroline bought a paper thin orange one. Great choice Carol, I'm sure that's gonna keep you real dry.
We headed onto the train to Italy next, and I don't know what it was, but not only did Godfrey insist on sleeping on the top bunk, but he also tried hitting on various women who were not in our group. He even told Caroline while she passed by our cabin and as he lay on his bed shirtless that " looking is free but touching will cost ya." I don't see how we will be able to keep the women off of him in Italy.
The ride has not gone as well on my end. I ended up eating a salami sandwich for supper, the official meal of poor people, and I also managed to walk in on a group of girls who were changing clothes in their room. Chalk up the awkward encounters to 2 for today. I'm firing on all cylinders.
It is late and I am very tired, I must try to sleep. Goodnight.
P.S. To my sister, I promise to get a summer scarf in Italy. Have no fear.
After our tour, we ate a delicious lunch of roasted chicken at a restaurant I can't remember the name of. I wish I could be more specific, but I really can't remember. What I do remember in walking in on an Asian man who was using the bathroom at this restaurant and not realizing it was just designed for one person. That was totally not awkward. We followed lunch up with a tour of a perfumery called Fragonard. Sadly they did not sell the perfume I was looking for, which was Sex Panther. I think France is one of the 60 countries it is illegal in. They did sell a cinnamon perfume that smelled exactly like big red, and a fruit scented perfumed that smelled like sunny D. You could get a 1.5 oz vial of this for 26 euros, or about 34 dollars. Seems legit.
We went to Louvre next, where I spent more time searching for exhibits than I did actually looking at any art. I saw the Mona Lisa, and I can't say I was very impressed. Ms Weller told me she cried when she saw it in person, but I had no similar reaction. I noticed that most Greek statues are of naked people, but most roman statues are clothed. Modesty must have been developed around the time of the roman empire. The other notable pieces I saw were the painting of Napoleon I's coronation and Napoleon III's apartments. I heard another American tourist ask if the two Napoleons were related. Yes, I am serious when I say that. I'm done.
Caroline and I managed to lose or forget our rain coats, so we both hurried around during the time before the train ride to buy one. We were hoping to get matching Eiffel tower ponchos, but we sadly couldn't find any. Instead I bought a plain black one and Caroline bought a paper thin orange one. Great choice Carol, I'm sure that's gonna keep you real dry.
We headed onto the train to Italy next, and I don't know what it was, but not only did Godfrey insist on sleeping on the top bunk, but he also tried hitting on various women who were not in our group. He even told Caroline while she passed by our cabin and as he lay on his bed shirtless that " looking is free but touching will cost ya." I don't see how we will be able to keep the women off of him in Italy.
The ride has not gone as well on my end. I ended up eating a salami sandwich for supper, the official meal of poor people, and I also managed to walk in on a group of girls who were changing clothes in their room. Chalk up the awkward encounters to 2 for today. I'm firing on all cylinders.
It is late and I am very tired, I must try to sleep. Goodnight.
P.S. To my sister, I promise to get a summer scarf in Italy. Have no fear.
Day 3-France
After a long night of little sleep due to the loud spaniards partying in the room beside us and also due to me forgetting to close the hotel window, I woke up this Sunday morning groggy and tired. I headed downstairs for another jam up breakfast of toast and more toast and an IV of coffee. I ate breakfast with the group, and then we were off to the train station headed for France.
The train station was a pretty nice place. I have only traveled by train once in my life, and that was in the sixth grade going to DC. Those train stations were absolutely awful, but the one here in England was nice. I got to see station 9 3/4 at King's Cross from Harry Potter, AND I got my photo taken beside it. Will Naso, eat your heart out.
The journey to France went smoothly. We travelled through the Chunnel, which I would tell you about if I didn't sleep through it. It is honestly just a dark tunnel, but the fact that you are 200 ft under the ground is still cool. I woke up in the French countryside, which resembles the American Midwest . I think everything in France is powered by wind energy, because I saw about 50 wind turbines. It was also at this point on the train ride that I informed Michael of the historical significance of the fields we passed through. If you think about it, our grandfathers and great grandfathers all fought in those very fields so that the men farming them now have the freedom to do so. I dare you to read that and not get teary eyed.
Arriving in France, we couldn't find our coach driver. What we could find was a large population of North Africans and a man who was either drunk or dead laying over a sewer drain. Finally we found our driver who thankfully took us to a nicer part of town. After arriving at the hotel, (which is much nicer than the one in London) we headed out to see the city. We have a guided tour tomorrow, so Alex didn't tell us too much about the city. We saw the Eiffel Tower, which scared me just looking up at it. I'm gonna stay on the ground and ride the carousel with Godfrey tomorrow instead of going to the top. I'd like to accomplish my goal of zero panic attacks this trip. We passed by the Louvre, which we will visit tomorrow, and went to a park. It was here that I first noticed that everyone in Paris owns a dog. Mrs. Vero, being the dog lover she is, asking one woman if she could pet her boxers. This resulted in the most awkward moment of the day, when one boxer grew jealous of Mrs Vero's petting of the other and attempted to take it's frustration out on the other dog in a rather inappropriate manner. You can guess what happens next.
After that awkward moment, we visited a few other places who's names escape me right now. I do remember going to see a few former royal palaces and the building where the Mayor of the first district of Paris has his office. The group then split up for free time, with the cultured members visiting the Cathedral of Notre Dame, and the uncultured going to buy souvenirs.
The Cathedral was beautiful, and I loved looking inside. Some sort of debate was going on, as two Frenchmen were seated at the front arguing as people and tv cameras looked on. It was also good to see people praying and in church on Sunday.
After the Cathedral, we went to eat dinner. For dinner we had hamburger steak and ratatouille. I thought ratatouille was an animated movie, so I was surprised to hear it was also a dish. Apparently hamburger steak is popular in France, but our cook didn't know a good hamburger steak is cooked medium, not well done. However, I have to say that the bread in France is as good as I imagined it to be.
The most enjoyable part of the day was the cruise along the Seine River. I got to enjoy a delicious crepe and also watch Godfrey wave at people on the shore. Godfrey gave some women the international signall for "call me", while simply waving at others. Regardless of the technique used, the women flocked to him. Godfrey and John also took my suggestion of recreating the scene from Titanic where Leonardo Dicaprio and Kate Winslett stand on the bow together, but Mrs Vero shot that plan down halfway through. At the end of the ride, the Eiffel Tower lit up like a Christmas tree, which was really awesome. That singular moment changed my entire outlook on the city of Paris. At first I thought it just smelled bad and was dirty, and that is still true. However, at night the city looks really cool, so I have to give it props for that. It is getting late over here so I'm gonna head off. Tomorrow should be a little more interesting. Goodnight.
P.S. Godfrey asked Michael since this week is Holy Week in the western church, if he could convince the Pope to bless Godfrey's fists and allow him to punch the demons out of people when we visit the Vatican. I can't make that up.
P.P.S. Despite what it may sound like, I am having a ton of fun over here and the trip has been great. We have an awesome tour guide and have visited some great places.
The train station was a pretty nice place. I have only traveled by train once in my life, and that was in the sixth grade going to DC. Those train stations were absolutely awful, but the one here in England was nice. I got to see station 9 3/4 at King's Cross from Harry Potter, AND I got my photo taken beside it. Will Naso, eat your heart out.
The journey to France went smoothly. We travelled through the Chunnel, which I would tell you about if I didn't sleep through it. It is honestly just a dark tunnel, but the fact that you are 200 ft under the ground is still cool. I woke up in the French countryside, which resembles the American Midwest . I think everything in France is powered by wind energy, because I saw about 50 wind turbines. It was also at this point on the train ride that I informed Michael of the historical significance of the fields we passed through. If you think about it, our grandfathers and great grandfathers all fought in those very fields so that the men farming them now have the freedom to do so. I dare you to read that and not get teary eyed.
Arriving in France, we couldn't find our coach driver. What we could find was a large population of North Africans and a man who was either drunk or dead laying over a sewer drain. Finally we found our driver who thankfully took us to a nicer part of town. After arriving at the hotel, (which is much nicer than the one in London) we headed out to see the city. We have a guided tour tomorrow, so Alex didn't tell us too much about the city. We saw the Eiffel Tower, which scared me just looking up at it. I'm gonna stay on the ground and ride the carousel with Godfrey tomorrow instead of going to the top. I'd like to accomplish my goal of zero panic attacks this trip. We passed by the Louvre, which we will visit tomorrow, and went to a park. It was here that I first noticed that everyone in Paris owns a dog. Mrs. Vero, being the dog lover she is, asking one woman if she could pet her boxers. This resulted in the most awkward moment of the day, when one boxer grew jealous of Mrs Vero's petting of the other and attempted to take it's frustration out on the other dog in a rather inappropriate manner. You can guess what happens next.
After that awkward moment, we visited a few other places who's names escape me right now. I do remember going to see a few former royal palaces and the building where the Mayor of the first district of Paris has his office. The group then split up for free time, with the cultured members visiting the Cathedral of Notre Dame, and the uncultured going to buy souvenirs.
The Cathedral was beautiful, and I loved looking inside. Some sort of debate was going on, as two Frenchmen were seated at the front arguing as people and tv cameras looked on. It was also good to see people praying and in church on Sunday.
After the Cathedral, we went to eat dinner. For dinner we had hamburger steak and ratatouille. I thought ratatouille was an animated movie, so I was surprised to hear it was also a dish. Apparently hamburger steak is popular in France, but our cook didn't know a good hamburger steak is cooked medium, not well done. However, I have to say that the bread in France is as good as I imagined it to be.
The most enjoyable part of the day was the cruise along the Seine River. I got to enjoy a delicious crepe and also watch Godfrey wave at people on the shore. Godfrey gave some women the international signall for "call me", while simply waving at others. Regardless of the technique used, the women flocked to him. Godfrey and John also took my suggestion of recreating the scene from Titanic where Leonardo Dicaprio and Kate Winslett stand on the bow together, but Mrs Vero shot that plan down halfway through. At the end of the ride, the Eiffel Tower lit up like a Christmas tree, which was really awesome. That singular moment changed my entire outlook on the city of Paris. At first I thought it just smelled bad and was dirty, and that is still true. However, at night the city looks really cool, so I have to give it props for that. It is getting late over here so I'm gonna head off. Tomorrow should be a little more interesting. Goodnight.
P.S. Godfrey asked Michael since this week is Holy Week in the western church, if he could convince the Pope to bless Godfrey's fists and allow him to punch the demons out of people when we visit the Vatican. I can't make that up.
P.P.S. Despite what it may sound like, I am having a ton of fun over here and the trip has been great. We have an awesome tour guide and have visited some great places.
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