Kennedy: We're in Italy now and so far, it's living up to all expectations. Our first stop was Genova, where we spent two nights at a hostel up at the top of the city - so far away from downtown we were practically in the Swiss Alps. Luckily, buses ran often and the neighbourhood was really cute. We took a day trip out of the city to hike the Cinque Terre - five ancient villages along the coast of the Mediterranean. We walked for close to 3 hours, right over the water at some points. It was a tricky hike in some spots but absolutely gorgeous (will add photos as soon as we can - sorry we've been having issues with posting. Trust me, we have lots to show you when we get home!).
The next day we headed for Florence, with a stop in Pisa to check out the Leaning Tower and have lunch. We went to this little pizzeria off the major tourist street, and it was THE best pizza I've ever tasted. Terroni doesn't hold a candle.
Since Friday, we've been touring around Florence. Our hostel is again located way up on the hillside, but it is a really beautiful place - a 17th century villa with a courtyard and sculptures throughout the building. However, the lifeless, high ceilinged hallways and remote location remind us of The Shining. But I digress...
Yesterday we walked around the city core, saw Florence's famous gothic cathedral, the Duomo, which is absolutely massive and stands out because of the colouring on the exterior. Beside it is the Campanile, an 82 metre tower built in the 14th century. We also came across the Piazza della Signora, which houses a number of sculptures based on Greek mythology. It also has a replica of Michaelangelo's David, which, as we discovered today, doesn't even compare to the original. We saw it at the Galleria dell'Accademia - it really is the only sculpture you ever need to see. Quite astounding. Unfortunately, like every other museum out there, photos are forbidden. Just take our word for it.
We also went to the Galleria degli Uffizi today - a two hour wait but at the end of it, we got to see a lot of cool Renaissance art, including Botticelli's Birth of Venus and The Allegory of Spring. We also saw some works of Carravaggio and Da Vinci's Annunciation. Afterwards we went on a hunt for some good pasta, and we found it at a little restaurant next to the Duomo. Our waiter loved life. And we loved the free shots he gave us. :)
Tomorrow we plan to cross to the south side of the river to the Piazza Pitti and go to the park. We also plan to sample some wine at a few patios if the weather cooperates. Then Tuesday it's off to Rome. Can't wait.
P.S. Post more comments!! We want to hear from you. Mom - keep up the good work.
Hi guys. I'm not sure about everyone else who's reading your blog but, for me it's great to read about your "excellent adventure". I've been checking it daily (sometimes more). Just the regular stuff going on back here, including finishing in the middle of the pack in the Spring Scramble, which finally had decent weather for the first time in 14 years. When do you fly from Rome to Athens??
ReplyDeleteLove Dad
Hey kids....so great to hear from you again!!
ReplyDeleteMadi and I have just returned from our weekend in Grand Island, New York at the dance convention. We had a great time! Audience loved our performance of 65 Canadian dancers. I chorded for Judy's kids group when they performed. That was also fun for me, they were a huge hit of course, lots of oohs and aahs when they did their cool choreo. Kennedy, are you wanting to judge at the blyth contest this september? I emailed you but perhaps you don't have time to check emails. I should let them know one way or the other. Well, continue to update us on your adventures.....i love hearing about what you are doing and seeing. Stay healthy and safe. Luv, Mom
Hi Kennedy and Jordan Glad to follow your adventures. Sounds interesting. Grandma and Grandpa are going to The Livery in Goderich with us on Sat. so looking forward to that. We don't see enough of each other. Stay safe and healthy.
ReplyDeleteAunt Wilma
Good to hear from you (as usual). Sounds like you are keeping busy. I tried to send a 'comment' this aft but I couldn't access my google account (perhaps you will get 2 messages from me). Enjoy getting pictures. We seem to be keeping busy. The weather is nice so have been getting some outside work done. Take care -stay healthy. Luv, G & G
ReplyDeleteHi kids....Kennedy, got your email. Somehow i missed it? That's why i asked about the dance judging on the blog comment. So, up arrived in rome today.....what a neat place that will be!
ReplyDeleteI truly envy your adventure, and wish i could be there with you. I sent a note to Irene in Scotland, telling her you will be there approx the end of june. Of course, it would be great if you would phone her closer to confirm. I was thinking i would like to phone you this sunday, it's mother's day and that would be a great "gift" if i could hear your voices. Would that be a good day? And if so, what time is best?
I'm flexible, anytime after 11:00 a.m. here.
Hope to hear about your adventure again soon.
HUGS ~Mom~
Hey guys, sounds like such an awesome time. I'm really happy for both of you.
ReplyDeleteJordan: As for FOTC, it was soooooooo awesome!! I can't even explain how awesome it was, but you continue enjoying your trip and we'll talk all about it in July on the golf course with a couple brewskies.
Love you both. (but not in a weird way)
Brian.