Category: Babcia and Yia Yia!

Join Alex and Terri as they talk all things travel. From great destinations to which travel TV shows are on the top of their binge list, Babcia and Yia Yia have your travel addiction covered!

15 Things You Should Know About Europe

vintage building in cabourg in france

European travel dreams are nothing new and every traveler we come into contact with has amazing stories of what delighted, disappointed and surprised them when they took on the great European Travel Adventure. One of the things that we like hearing about are all the situations that travelers encounter that made them take a second look. Some put a smile on our face some make us nod our head in agreement and others simply shock. We thought that we would take a little time and share some of those most common surprises with you!

boat on the water near buildings
Photo by Dewi Madden on Pexels.com
  • The Aperol Spritz is a trendy Summer staple. Get ready to see everyone- and we mean everyone with this bright orange drink in their hand. It is the drink of the Summer- every Summer.
  • Pedestrian Zones are everywhere. Fact. You are going to walk. A lot. We can not overstate this, historic city centers where all of the sites are are jam packed and you will spend more time trying to get from place to place on wheels rather than foot power. Get ready to walk.
  • Transportation is going to cost you more than you think and it may not work out the way you think. Private and taxi drivers are regulated and licensed with permits and certificates and they have to pay a lot of fees to be where the tourists are. You are going to pay. A cheaper option is looking into trains and trams but sometimes you can run into a bit of a delay during infamous striking periods. These can last from one hour to one day. Be flexible.
  • 3 night minimums are getting more and more common especially in high use destinations like the Cinque Terre and Lake Como.
  • Not everywhere in Europe uses the Euro: Chief among these countries are Great Britain, Switzerland, Norway (who has no cash- that’s right every transaction is electronic) and Poland.
  • Tipping customs and service charges have changed a lot. Do not tip at a restaurant that charges a cover or a service fee. Some countries look at the practice as a way to pull in tourist dollars. Do not fall for the line “Tip not included” at the bottom of a bill. It’s usually in English and that’s a dead giveaway. Some do not consider tipping at all. These countries are in Scandinavia and Eastern Europe.
  • Visa waivers are on the way. The whole program has been delayed and delayed for years but look for the registration system to be up and running by mid 2025. Log on, create and account, pay the fee, travel.
  • Walk for miles: trust us you will walk more than you think! 7 miles in Paris, 12 miles in Venice, 8 miles in a day. Yep. Get ready to walk. Have we already said this? Maybe you should lace up those shoes!!
  • Rafting and Canyoneering: Scotland  Poland   Germany raft   Corsica and Lucca    
  • Scale rooftops and climb to the top of the tower: Krakow, Milan, and get ready for Notre Dame to open the towers next year as its grand reopening is scheduled for December 8th, 2024.
  • Cook: Classes for travelers are on the rise! From fancy restaurant digs to literally standing in someone’s kitchen and learning their Grandma’s recipe. Some examples are Waffles and Beer in Bruges, and pasta making in Tuscany.
  • Go to markets to shop like a local in department stores, pharmacies, supermarkets or shopping streets like Rue Cler in Paris. Here, take on a challenge to gather up a lunch then go enjoy it on a Sunny day in one of the iconic parks that dot the city. But beware, sometimes these traditional markets have been taken over by non-local economies such is the case in Florence,
  • Golf: We all know about the courses in The British Isles, but don’t discount Spain, Italy, and Germany for great courses as well.
  • Do Laundry: Americans have a unique problem when they travel to Europe- luggage! One way to pare it down is to plan for laundry to make things easier, lighter, and smaller. Places like the Frania Cafe in Krakow and the Wash and Dry in Florence are perfect drop off services.
  • Relax! Beach days in Greece and Ibiza are famous for this but there are many many other places to consider like: Sopot, Italian Agriturismos, the Danube Riverside in Vienna, Canal Saint Martin in Paris, and the Forty Foot swim spot just south of Dublin all can fit the bill.
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Pivot! 5 Travel Challenges and What To Do!

interior of airplane with passengers

Sometimes the very things that give us travel stress can show themselves regardless of the great planning we do. We know, we know! It seems that no matter how hard you try, some sort of issue rears its ugly head just when you think you’ve got it covered. We’ve heard them all and perhaps we can give you some friendly tips to overcome those pesky problems while you are out exploring the world.

Luggage is lost…

It’s the number one concern of travelers! We understand! While you can’t control your bag once it has been sent off on the conveyor belt, you can track it independently. Our solution?

  • Use airtags! We’ve solved problem after problem with airtags and a change of clothes in our carryon to get us through.
  • Do not leave baggage claim without filing your lost luggage claim! Do not! Europe is very different than the US in this respect. They do not have airline specific bag counters. Instead each airport has one dedicated counter.
  • After you leave with your claim number, look around the arrivals terminal and locate the phone kiosk that you need to use when retrieving your bag.

Plane is delayed…

If there is one thing you do to help yourself, please, please, please be sure to download your airline’s app and create an account to link your ticket. Please. We can not explain the benefits of linking your ticket directly with the airline. Consider it a free VIP pass only for the things that go wrong!

Trains are on strike…

The most common strike we see is the train strike. It usually comes in the middle of the week during the very high travel season to make things inconvenient but not impossible. Strikes are very organized in Europe and, often, these issues resolve themselves within a day as permitted strikes can sometimes last just a few hours. So what do you need to worry about?

  • First, get rebooked. This is easiest if you are connected to the train app in the area that you are traveling. It also helps if you’ve booked directly with them to begin with. Third party apps can really limit your choices here.
  • Once that’s taken care of, secure those accommodations for one extra night if you have to. It may not be exactly what you planned but, roll with it! You’ve chosen a great destination! Last, call ahead to your next destination to let them know you will be late, you may just get comp’ed for being courteous!

Venue is closed…

It happens! Rome is primping for the jubilee, Rome was under construction for the Olympics and Europe is in a constant state of renovation. The reality of travel is that Europe does not plan its renewals and refurbishments based on what people have planned. The most common issue is that outside facades are covered in scaffolding which may not be lovely to look at but it doesn’t take away from the experience inside. Most closures can be identified if you look into pre-booking on direct sites. If there is renovation that impedes your visit, take a moment and see if there are temporary hours to make up for it.

Rain is coming…

Take care of rainy days by thinking about your indoor choices. If you buy city passes or museum passes, this can make your scheduling a lot more flexible. Still stuck outside, buy a cute umbrella and go puddle jumping! Additionally, keep a cool day trip in your back pocket that can be just far enough to skirt the weather! Finally, take am moment and see if bad weather isn’t your sign to kick back and take a break! That’s okay!

 

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100 Ways Travel Makes Us Thankful

brown wooden boat moving towards the mountain

It’s that time of year! We’re so excited! Travel is a powerful force in our lives and sharing our love of it is a total passion project. So, this Thanksgiving, we say thank you. We have plenty to be thankful for like our family, our travel partner, and all of the moments that we share with others. Today however, we think we should say thank you to the very thing that we all share. We say thank you to travel.

Let’s celebrate by appreciating what travel gives us. Here are 100 things that travel has offered to me. They are in no particular order. So, peruse the list, and enjoy! We know how much travel has given to us. How about you?

The List!

A sense of belonging in more places than I expected. I love the connections I feel no matter where in the world I am.

An appreciation for art. I didn’t care much as a kid but now I know my Byzantine from my Vermeers and it makes me happy!

A goal to learn more language skills. I love picking up at least a few pleasantries wherever I go. (But Greek gets the best of me every time!)

A confidence that I am aware of others. I find myself appreciating other culture’s solutions to interesting problems.

A chance to walk in the footsteps of history. It makes me feel awestruck every time.

Moments to know I can get anywhere on my own. My independence makes me a better human.

A taste for food I wouldn’t have normally tried. From kimchee to escargot, I’ll give it a try!

The power of wow. Victoria Falls, The Parthenon, Mt. Fuji, a kangaroo, an NYC pizzeria. They all make me say “wow”.

Map skills. I really can get just about anywhere in the world on my own and I know how to prepare and plan for that journey.

Opportunities to conquer new things. Tops of mountains, bottoms of gorges, new food, new rituals, a better understanding.

Literature connections. I find myself invested in kids books and literature for myself more and more.- as long as it allows me to travel!

A love for travel movies. I can’t get enough of them, even the cheesy Hallmark ones.

castle on hill over village near body of water
Photo by Kai Pilger on Pexels.com

A minimalist spirit. With travel as an obsession, extraneous stuff loses priority and the things I do have better mean a lot.

A connection to my roots. I’m Polish, I’m Irish. I know it.

An improved imagination. I’ve become quite adept at imagining what could be and what must have been.

An appreciation for a well designed museum. I’ve always loved architecture and planning but I find the logic in a well laid out museum very intriguing.

The uncanny skill of avoiding a crowd but finding the party. Not too much, not too little.

A respect for water.

A better sense of environmental problems. Knowing and accepting the mistakes of humanity seems to be the biggest fight.

Gratefulness for the home I have. I love traveling but I appreciate my own bed too. I’m also very aware of how fortunate I am.

Friends. From every corner. My Christmas Card list makes me happy.

An appreciation for the absurd and surreal. Sometimes, you just need to laugh at the circumstances you find yourself in.

A love of globes. To me? They’re artwork!

a desk globe on black luggage
Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko on Pexels.com

A quest to fill in a map all on my own. I can name every country in the world on a blank map.

A need to share trivia. Did you know that there are 195 countries recognized by the U.S. government?

A better sense of humor. I have to say, I laugh at more these days with a broader perspective.

Better Listening Skills.

A better relationship with technology. I feel like I run my tech rather than the other way around.

A clearer sense of the little things. Flowers, laughter, a sunny day, an early morning walk.

An opportunity to get out of my comfort zone. Whether, it’s language or weather or political climate, being uncomfortable helps me be a better learner.

The realization that not everybody travels the same way or with the same intent. There are backpackers, nomads, cruisers, tour takers and DIY travelers. Some are amazing, some are not.

A love of architecture. I can’t get enough of church spires, Roman arches, intricate carvings, and Greek Columns.

Time with the girls. I love getting away with my girls! Whether it’s my bestie, my daughter, or my mom, I always have a good time.

Dancing Feet. Cue the music!

Menu Language. I can order a rum and coke in any language.

A respect for war.

A better knowledge of what others think of my home country. I watch the news from other countries and it is very interesting!

Global perspective. Our way is not always the best way!

An awe for real craftsmanship. I find myself saying “and they did all of that without any power!”

My inner gypsy. I’m a wanderer and I love that!

Better reading habits. I read more and more these days and those books always take me somewhere.

Chopstick skills. Thank you Japan!

Wanderlust The second I get home from a trip, I’m ready to plan the next one!

A network of like minded people. My closest friends travel like I do or appreciate that I can’t wait to get on the road again.

Better parenting skills

Patience. If you’re gonna travel, you’re gonna wait. The better you are at that the easier and more enjoyable for everyone.

A love of logistics. I find the apps, I find the deals, I connect the dots, then, I travel.

An understanding of what GMO free means. Taste a tomato in Greece then eat one back in the States. You’ll see.

Appreciation for the ability to sit on a park bench. Part of travel is taking in the life in front of you. I am so happy that I can do just that.

A love of public spaces. All of them: centrums, museums, market squares, train stations, shopping streets, and more.

A new obsession with impressionism. I find the beauty in it and appreciate the father of the movement, Monet, so so much. Especially after I understood the role Asian art played in it.

A preference to experience things rather than just look from a difference. Don’t be a looker, be a doer.

A gratefulness for my two feet. They get me to the top on Mont Saint Michel and Mount Fuji and to the bottom of Victoria Falls and the tiny port in Santorini.

A respect for the religions of the world

A discovered talent to be a digital scrapbooker. Part of my trip planning process is including framing and organizing my memories.

A loyalty to small business. Mom and pop shops of the world matter. They matter so, so much!

A preference for handicrafts. Handmade with love is my favorite product no matter where I am in the world.

An acceptance that I’m not a perfect traveler. I make mistakes. I try hard not to get stuck with the coulda shouldas. I just remember that I’ll choose the better town, museum, tour guide, etc. next time.

A pretty good eye for framable art. I am all about bringing back prints and local artists and framing them on my wall.

An adoration for storytelling. Tell me a story then I’ll share one with you! I’ve got plenty!

A guilty pleasure for travel Christmas ornaments. I deck my halls with trinkets from all over the world and it makes me happy.

A preference for solid bar shampoo and conditioner. I am a free of TSA approved liquids and I’m happy about it!

A better aversion to plastics

A tear and a smile when I see a poppy in Europe. I’m proud of the role our country played in the World Wars and I appreciate everyone’s sacrifice. A poppy reminds me how much they matter.

Better teaching skills. Travel brings so much to my classroom and I always look forward to sharing the world with young learners.

A willingness to curate my possessions. I am very happy to get rid of what doesn’t matter. I find joy in surrounding myself with just what speaks to my memories.

A notoriety for speaking my mind from a global perspective. I have big mouth. I’m okay with that, I hope you are too.

The ability to leave the past in the past and appreciate people based on the present. I’ve learned that understanding history AND understanding the social development of society both matter.

Epic sunsets. Santorini, Namibia, Kyoto, and more. They never disappoint.

Knowing that I can like one area of the world more than others but I can appreciate every corner of the globe at the same time.

An odd love for symbology. Thanks Dan Brown. Now I see it everywhere.

More people to root for in the Olympics

A love for eating al fresco. I can park myself on a main square, a piazza, a pedestrian cobblestoned street. Hours and hours.

A seasonal love of FIFA finals. Every year, in late June, I choose a team and join in the fun of the finals wherever I am.

A chance to say “I’ve been there!” when I watch TV. When I flip to a travel show, I love walking down those streets and seeing those amazing sites virtually.

A sincere respect for bees. Gosh! They do a lot for this world and they don’t get the credit they deserve!

No air conditioning. When was the last time you slept with the windows open? How about under a mosquito net? You should try!

Seeing art en setu. Marveling at the Sistine Chapel or Monet’s Waterlillies where the artist intended you to see them is an experience that raises your art awareness to a whole new level!

A pickiness for food that’s not prepared properly. I’m spoiled! I’ve eaten food, in season, all around the world. Belgian fries or McDonalds? There’s no competition!

An understanding that standing out isn’t always the best option. I’ve learned that finding common ground with others is a gift. It doesn’t hurt that it makes me less of a pick pocket target!

An enduring love of the therapeutic results of journaling.

French Rose. in the Summer, on a great piazza. Life is good.

The ability to pare down to the basics. As our old travel pal Rick Steves likes to say, “No one comes back from a trip and says that they wish they’d brought more!” (Although, Rick has no idea what it takes to pack for a woman who isn’t a backpacker!)

The acceptance that I usually overpack anyway. It’s gonna happen and I’m going to be okay with that. I’m plus sized and that’s a whole different world!

A better eye at technology that works for me and not against me. I’ve learned to avoid the gossip and scandal and use technology as a tool rather than allowing technology to run my life! #putthephonedown

A sadness when we lose a treasure. Notre Dame, the aging pyramids, Damascus, and more…

A goal to take good architectural pictures. It one of my new favorite things to do. I find the shapes and craftsmanship amazing!

A preference for train travel. I love the ease and sensibility of the train. I try to fit some sort of train experience into my adventures each time I wander. Whether it’s rush hour in Japan or the great open skies in Canada, I love it!

Plenty of holiday traditions. German pickle ornaments, Japanese carp fish, Greek Easter eggs dyed red, potato latkes, high holy days that no one thinks of, I love them all.

Little moments. Morning walks in a city center when the fresh produce is being delivered for the day.

A thirst for more memories. I treasure each and every one of them and I can’t wait to make more!

Add to the list! Comment below with one way travel makes you happy!!!

 

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Five Reservations to Make Before You Touch Down Rome.

There are two kinds of travelers, we’ve all heard, the pre planners that print out the itinerary and the take it as it comes line waiters. Rome presents an issue for each of these travelers as it comes in extremes, either you need a reservation months in advance or the venue is free and you can waltz in whenever you want. So what’s a traveler to do? We’ve got your top five booking covered here. (Don’t worry we’ve got the Vatican covered right here!)

a stairway on a church facade
Photo by Natasa Dav on Pexels.com

The Colosseum and Forum

While this site certainly finds itself on the bucket list of most travelers who plan to see Rome, we’ve got to be honest and tell you it’s the first place we would skip if we had to cut something from our itinerary. But, it’s no wonder considering all of the legends that surround this first sports arena of sorts. But, make no mistake, while the ancient Romans were able to fill and empty the place in five minutes, efficiency plays no role in today’s tours.

Bonus: At The Basilica of San Clemente, there are three levels of ruins to explore under the simple church with an anchor. The underground ruins are a cash only business and tend not to have a big line anyway.

abduction of proserpina scultpure in galleria borghese in rome
Photo by Anna Mitsu on Pexels.com

The gallery is probably the second most famous art collection in the city, falling in line behind The Vatican. With works of art like Apollo and Daphne, the Borghese is only available by reservation. Plan on using two hours to fully explore the entire gallery.

Bonus: If you are looking to get a few minutes of fresh air, it’s really worth the time to rent a few bikes and get out of town on the Appian Way. This historic road was the main thoroughfare from the south and into ancient Rome.

The Pantheon

Unlike years past, you need to buy a ticket to go to Rome’s oldest church, The Pantheon. Located very close to Piazza Navona, the Pantheon is a true architectural wonder. With a perfect oculus in the dome and proportions that seem impossible, it’s amazing to think that it still stands, in quite good condition I might add, after almost 1900 years. Although, to avoid the lines, get there early or right at closing as the crowds are the thinnest then.

Bonus: Take a bit of a walk in this area for some other amazing churches that have world class art. Within a 5 minute walk, you can find Santa Maria Sopra Minerva with Michelangelo, Chiesa Saint Luigi dei Fancesi with Caravaggio, Chiesa Santa Maria della Pace with Rafael, and so many more.

photo of people walking in front of pantheon roman temple in rome italy
Photo by Griffin Wooldridge on Pexels.com

Galerie Doria Pamphlij

The Doria and Pamphlij names have been a Roman staple for over 6 centuries yet they are often over-looked by visitors. The dynasty is full of political figures, royalty, and, most recently, a saint in the making! Their incredible central villa in Rome is now a world class museum that rivals the halls of Versailles. Located right on the Via Del Corso, it is easy to pass right by this fancy facade but, trust us! Get the ticket and walk around to enjoy the glitz and glam of Roman society!

Bonus: The gallery is in the vicinity of the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps which are best seen very early in the morning.

Lastly, don’t forget your rail ticket out of town!

Like any good Roman from years past, it’s a really good idea to have an exit strategy! Whether you are taking the train to the airport or another part of Italy, book ahead of time so that you have all the information you need to make your transition smooth. The romance of Rome is undeniable! And as long as you are well prepared, you’ll enjoy every minute of that Dolce Vita!

Bonus: Don’t discount the gift shops of Rome. As we all know, pretty much every tourist site dumps you into a gift shop. I happen to find lots of them fun in this part of the world. There are some real treasures in them! My favorite souvenir? A glow in the dark Virgin Mary that I found at San Giovanni en Laterno.

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5 European museums to discover (and 5 to skip)

people around louvre museum

 Skip The Louvre and take on the magnificent Czartoryski in Krakow

La Jaconde by Leonardo DaVinci was stolen from the Louvre in 1911. The headlines of the day were sensational with the art caper and the incident sparked her modern fame. Yet, while the world waits in line to view the Mona Lisa behind bullet proof glass at the busy Louvre, a few hundred miles away, a far more delightful DaVinci experience awaits.

The much revered Lady with Ermine was painted around the same time as its more famous cousin yet has a bit more depth and meaning and, yes, even a touch of humor. More importantly, her story of how she winds up in here in the new refurbished Czartoryski Museum is just as fascinating. and while Ermine is the star of the show, this amazing museum is of great quality through and through creating just another good reason to put Krakow at the top of your travel list.

Skip the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam and head for the Orsay in Paris

Vincent Van Gogh is, by far, one of the most famous artist ever and the family museum in Amsterdam is, no doubt, world class. Yet, if impressionism is on your mind, the Orsay wins the day every time. From setting to content, this Paris mainstay never disappoints! The museum does a wonderful job of covering everything that made art post-camera so fascinating and they are not afraid to move tings around to keep it interesting visit after visit. And, yes, there are a couple of Van Gogh to make up for skipping the 32 self portraits over in Amsterdam.

Skip Dublin Castle and Trinity Library in Dublin and instead head for EPIC in Dublin

Quite frankly, there are just better castles in Ireland than Dublin Castle. Moreover, the castle experience is just more fun in other parts of the country. So, we suggest checking with EPIC Museum. EPIC is an urban museum that explores the Irish immigrant and all of the facets of the Irish diaspora in every direction. Do you think you are of Irish ancestry? Check out the geneaology department while you are there to get some insight into your roots!

Skip Anne Frank’s House in Amsterdam, instead visit Auschwitz in Poland 

Anne Frank’s story is a very important one and something no one should ever forget. Yet, the hard to get tickets at the sold out Amsterdam site often do not rise to meet the expectations of the typical visitor. The house itself is void of any furnishings and the climb to the attic space can be a bit overwhelming for anyone not prepared for it. Anne’s singular story is one of millions that are memorialized in Southern Poland at the German death camp called Auschwitz. A visit to any concentration camp is sometimes a difficult concept to reckon. Yet, the mere act of going to pay your respects to the very place Anne and her family were sent can enlighten and help understand the massive scale of the Final Solution and its impact on modern society even today. It is an impactful experience that truly makes you understand the words “never forget”.

The Vatican Museum is the most visited museum in the world and there isn’t a day that goes by when the halls of this gem aren’t overcrowded. It’s world class art spanning millenia is unmatched. Yet, the crowds can make it difficult to truly enjoy. Just a few miles away, the Borghese Gallery, is interested in keeping the numbers low. The museum which is full of the most amazing sculpture is capped at 360 visitors at a time making the experience a low stress, high valued destination in Rome.

Skip the Uffizi in Florence and head straight for the Accademia 

As the Louvre and Vatican museums prove, large crowds make the museums experience a bit more stressful. The Uffizi is no exception. Yes, it is the very definition of Renaissance art but its crowds make it a one way path of uncomfortable no matter what time of year it is. Yet, the Academia provides just as much punch for a fraction of the time and space. Home to David, it impresses in many ways and can be enjoyed in just under two hours.

Other gems we love are:

  • Galerie Dior in Paris: world class whether you are in to fashion or not.
  • Musee Montmartre in Paris: an oasis in a sea of tourists.
  • Waterloo Monument and Museum in Belgium: fun for absolutely every age and never crowded.
  • The upstairs museum floor at St. Marks in Venice: the best view in town and a close up view of the Constantinian horses.

 

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Too Much Italy!

photo of the saint martin cathedral in lucca italy

Toe to knee, the boot of Italy is a country chock full of amazing sites and flavors that make it one of the most requested tours we have! And for good reason, Italy does not disappoint. What we notice the most about travelers who want to take on the great italian adventure is that they want to do it all!!! And planning to do it all can be a really overwhelming task to take on. So, how to approach the great Italy Grand Tour? We’ve got a few ideas to get you started! 

 

via GIPHY

Cut Italy in half!

Draw an imaginary line between Florence and Rome. Then choose a side! Each side of the line has tons to do and can easily fill up two weeks.  Imagine actually staying in Sicily for a few days then making your way to Rome through the Amalfi coast to round out you adventure in Rome via Pompeii? Now we’re talkin!

From the other direction, Picture yourself headed right into Milan for a quick two days before heading the the Cinque Terre, dipping down into the Italian playground of Tuscany with leaning towers, plenty of vineyards, amazing food and architecture. Now take a moment and continue that movie by rounding out your time in Venice. Yes!

map of italy in a frame
Photo by Fabrizio Velez on Pexels.com

Pick and choose among the “duplicate destinations”

One of the most frustrating things about planning in Italy is FOMO. And it’s real! But the truth of the matter is that while no two places are exactly alike there are a few they may do the same job. Take for example, Lago Como and Lago Lugano. Both beautiful, both the perfect three day getaway, both have great little towns dotting the coastline. Okay, one had George Clooney and the other doesn’t but there’s only so much A list celebrity to go around! Essentially, both do the same job. Trying to go to both may create a little overkill in your trip and that time may be allocated to something more essential. Here are a couple of other duplicate comparisons.

  • Como and Lugano
  • Cinque Terre and Amalfi coast
  • Sienna and Assisi
  • Pompeii and Ostia Antica
  • Sorrento and Positano
  • Verona, Vincenza, and Padua
photography of lighted bridge
Photo by Julius Silver on Pexels.com

3- Learn the train routes

By far, the biggest time waster in an Italy adventure is moving from one place to another. We highly suggest using good planning strategies like the hub and spoke method for day tripping or the directional advance for anchor cities. Both of those methods require a quick and efficient way to get from one place to another. Enter the massive, very well covered, train system. If you are planning anything from Naples north, knowing the train system is a must. And once you do, you’ll find that it is simple and fast! In fact, if you have round trip tickets out of Rome but you are ending your trip in Venice, we highly suggest taking the train back to FCO to SAVE YOU TIME over booking a hopper flight.

We know you saw it! We said Naples and north. Because for Naples and south, you’re going to have to do a little more digging as the train companies are not the same on all the tracks in this region. Start by learning the Train Italia routes then go from there. You won’t regret this decision.

farm land during sunset
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

4- Consider an agriturismo

Sometimes we focus so much on the bucket list experiences that we forget that rest is an important part of the travel equation. Italy has a particularly great getaway strategy in the form of the Italian version of the B and B: an agriturismo. Imagine yourself taking two days in the Tuscan countryside to stay on a vineyard laden farm and perhaps take a pasta making class from the host. Maybe you’d like to get involved in the olive picking process down in the orchard. An agriturismo could be just the thing that recharges your batteries midway through your trip while giving you a truly authentic experience. Win-win. Check out the official link for more.

set of david busts in store
Photo by Olga Lioncat on Pexels.com

5- Get your head around the art story

Okay, let’s chat. Americans, on the whole, are not good at understanding art. We just aren’t! It’s not your fault that, as a society, we are concerned with seeing the unclothed human form and don’t know how to connect to art. Check out our many podcasts and blogs about how to approach art and be prepared for the fact that a lot of it in Italy is naked. It helps to wrap your mind around a bit of the massive history so you have an idea of why some of these works are truly important. For example, why in the world are there so many Davids?! If you are really desperate to find an in with art try creating a scavenger hunt of the most famous pieces or choose an item like dogs or wine and see how many you can find in a given museum. There is a judgy cat in the Uffizi who will put up with you for a few minutes if you can locate him.

colosseum italy
Photo by Chait Goli on Pexels.com

6- Create a list of what needs to be pre-booked

Here’s the deal. You are not going to get into the Colosseum without waiting in a line for a couple of hours if you don’t pre-book. It is what it is. For the life of me I d not understand that travel choice. Why in the world would you invest in travel only to stand in a line?! Just pre book and keep a schedule. If you’d rather not be so tied to the clock, we get it! Compromise and get tickets that are first group in the morning so you can enjoy and then keep the rest of the day free. While we are on the subject, please, please use official sites to book your tickets. Please do not give your hard earned travel dollars to any sort of third party! Here are just a few of the places that pre-booking makes all the difference:

  • The Colosseum
  • The Uffizi and Accademia
  • The Borghese Gallery
  • Anything that gets you to Capri
  • St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice
  • Anything dealing with the Vatican

via GIPHY

7- Above all, plan like you will return!

We have so many clients who chat with us about their “once in a lifetime Italy plans”. Our question is what is preventing you from going back. The answer we usually get in response is something along the lines of “there are too many other places to visit!” If we could share one piece of advice about travel it would be that travel is not meant to be a quantity game, it’s meant to be a quality game. Italy is simply to big to take it in all at once! For that matter, Rome is too big as well. Imagine someone visiting the States and saying that they were going to do everything that was on offer here all at one time. An impossibility you say! The same is true of many destinations in Europe, and Italy is at the top of the list.

Our Take: 2 Weeks in Italy

  • Fly in to FCO and take the train directly to Florence
  • Spend three nights in Florence
  • Spend three nights in Cinque Terre day tripping to Pisa and Lucca
  • Take an agriturismo break for two nights
  • Spend an overnight in a hillside town like Assisi or Sienna
  • Head north through Milan to Lake Como for two nights
  • Round out your trip with three nights in sublime Venice
  • Depart from VCE
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The 18th Arrondissment

people walking on street near buildings during daytime

Once upon a time…

Scratch that. Instead, I should probably begin with “once upon a bajillion tourists!” The fact is, the Montmartre area of Paris is something to behold! Each year, thousands upon thousands depend on the charming arrondissment as they search out it’s former life as an artist’s colony. It was this rag tag colony that created Montmartre in the first place. in the latter half of the 19th century, it was not even part of Paris proper. It was known as a poor man’s tax haven which made it ideal for the starving artists like Van Gogh, Manet, and Renoir. Today, it is a pedestrian zone that is capped by the amazing Sacre Couer. The problem is the sheer volume of visitors makes this appealing district hard to enjoy and navigate.

white and gray concrete building under blue sky during daytime

It seems that every storefront is geared not toward artisans and their craft but toward souvenirs and bad gelato. Don’t get me wrong, there are a few storefronts that honor the past and sell local products from a newer generation of artists. But, for the most part, this area is full of people who are very interested in selling you a “I heart Paris” t-shirt. So, should you make the trip up to the top? Should you even bother? The answer is maybe. If you are interested in any of the following things, you should consider heading uphill to explore.

  • The Sacre Coeur was built in 1919 but looks shiny and new. The stone that was used in the construction is special and will continue to be bright for centuries to come. The interior is lovely and well worth the time to see.  However, take note of the fact that you may not sit in front of the alter just to look. That area is for prayer only as this is a working church. Just as famous as the church are the stairs in front of it. These iconic stairs are a popular place to take in sunset over the city. For convenience, the tram next to the stairs can get you up and down with everyone else for a nominal fee.
  • The Musee de Montmartre is the former home of, among others, Pierre August Renoir.  After going through admission, stroll through the garden to the house and enjoy three floors of life in Montmartre. The highlight? The lovely cafe in the garden is a delightful stop along the way.
  • Musee de Vie Romantique or the museum of the Romantic Life, is one of three literary museums in Paris. This peek into the world of grand Salons during post revolution times is a great glimpse at the glory days of the Montmartre movement. Look for heavy weight artists to be featured as you wander.
  • The fabric district and the Montmartre book store is a secret hideaway just adjacent to the Sacre Coeur steps. Much like New York’s garment district, the grand dames of the fashion industry reside on these back streets. Consider perusing five floors of fabrics and notions in every color and style imaginable. While the stores are not much to look at from the outside, the inside is full of fashion treasure! The centerpiece of this small but mighty industrial area is the…
  • La Librairie de la Halle Saint-Pierre is part book shop, part cafe, part exhibition space, and all uniquely Montmartre. This icon of local life is often overlooked by visitors but deserves a go for those interested in the literary and design scene. Facing the stairs, you’ll see this relic of the industrial age just off to the right.

a view of a city at night from the top of a hill

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Florence and Tuscany

brown dome building at daytime

The year is 1500 and the following people are alive and thriving in Europe- Martin Luther, Christopher Columbus, Henry VII, and from Florence: The powerful Medicis, Amerigo Vespucci, Leonardo DaVinci, Niccolo Maccheavelli, Lorenzo the Magnificent and his son Pope Leo X and Michaelangelo. It’s the height of the culture explosion known as the renaissance and Florence is its epicenter. Today, Florence is jam packed with all of the stories of this telenovela from 1500 so, Let’s dig in!

aerial photography of city building

Florence reminds me a lot of Paris in that there is simply no way to see everything this city has to offer in one go. I think you would literally exhaust yourself and collapse before you got to it all. In all, there are five marquee sites and countless second tier destinations that can keep you busy for weeks. This means you are going to have to be super picky about what you choose to do.

The headline of any visit to Florence is ART ART ART sponsored by everyone’s favorite power hungry family: The Medicis! Being the local big deal family (think Kardashians and Hiltons) these uber rich locals had money and plenty of it. They set out to enrich their lives by investing in the newest trend: art. Their legacy of patronage is what makes Florence, well, Florence! You can find their mark on the:

  • Duomo: Unless you are there for faith or you are an architecture buff, taking a stroll around the Duomo will suffice! To see the inside, you can go to mass on Sundays to get the full effect. 
  • Accademia: 
  • Uffizi
  • Ponte Vecchio

brown bridge

There are a couple of notes that could help any traveler on their trip through Florence. For example, Tuscan bread tastes very different than the Italian bread we are used to. In fact, it is not made with salt. This may be a point of pride for the region but it can be a surprise for the visitor. It also may be an expense that you skip. Additionally, you may find the restaurants in the very touristy areas don’t take customers who want to stop and have drinks during certain times.

Shopping wise, Florence is filled to the brim with lovely little shops full of artisans that create everything from paper crafts to amazing leather goods. Get ready to get your shop on! One word of caution, the old market area has been overtaken by street stalls. These hawkers unfortunately cover up the lovely shops behind them. One of our favorites is iMedici which is one of the original leather shops in the area. You may want to walk on the original sidewalks behind these pop ups (which are quite frankly unsightly!) and shop the OG stores.

silhouette photo of people standing inside building

Speaking of the central market area, the central market has been converted from it’s former use of all food stalls to two levels. The bottom is the traditional market stalls while the upper level has touristy eatery stalls. It’s not our favorite in the high season but it’s better in the shoulder seasons. One of our favorite restaurants is Zaza’s which is located just outside the main market building. Try the artichokes. Just a few doors down is another old school Florence haunt, the Lavenderia Manfredi laundry service. Considering Florence’s central location whether you are exploring from the north or the south, this easy stop could fit perfectly into your plans. Just be sure to drop off at the start of your Florence stay as the proprietor will give you a time to pick up. No negotiations. 

Accommodations in Florence can get very pricy especially when certain seasonal events are underway. This includes Fashion week. Beware of your timing because a few days in one direction or another could make all the difference to your budget. Our pick? Hotel Pendini!

assorted cakes in cake glass rack

Getting around Florence is pretty easy and there are lots of pedestrian areas that link together the major sites. However, if you are looking to get an overview, you may want to book a golf cart tour that can give you the lay of the land and help you prioritize which sites you want to see and skip.

Getting out of Florence is just as easy particularly by train. The main train station is just to the north of the city center and easily connects to all the major points by high speed train. Local trains also connect to a bevy of Tuscan town. The day trips are fascinating and plentiful:

  • Sienna
  • Pisa
  • Lucca
  • An agriturismo
  • Assisi
  • Montepulciano
  • The Cinque Terre
  • San Marino

And so many more! Florence offers one last gem that is easily overlooked. Hidden amongst the streets are tiny wooden windows that were constructed during the plague. These windows were made so that people could still buy wine without coming in contact with others. Covid put them back on the map and kept some of them in business. So, if you see a little door as you are walking around, don’t hesitate to knock and see if you get a glass of wine in response!  

woman wearing goggles wearing necklace painting on arched wall

If you are looking to get in the Tuscan mood, enjoy this quick read that showcases this area. Murder in Florence by TA Williams is a nice easy read. The author certainly takes you down the streets of Florence and gives you a great overview of the city!

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Agriturismos: Italy’s best kept secret.

green grass field during daytime

I was walking through a lovely vineyard with a local vintner enjoying the North Italian sunshine when he stopped and asked me a very abrupt question. “How did you find this place?” he asked me in wonder. At first, I didn’t know how to take his question but then it occurred to me that he simply meant that he rarely saw Americans visit the area. Americans, it turns out, do not know about Italy’s best kept secret: agriturismos!

That walk got me thinking about how to best introduce the agriturismo. Simply put, agriturismos are bed and breakfasts that are on working farms. Oh, don’t be fooled! the word farm can be very deceiving here! Instead of thinking about corn or crops, shift your perspective to vineyards and olive orchards! Italy does that, it shifts your perspective when it comes to the everyday things and makes you take things in through a different lens.

Why are they a great alternative to other lodgings?

Probably the quickest answer is to say price. Most agriturismos charge a mere fraction of their hotel competitor’s rates and often have such affordable pricing that they charge by the couple. But that’s not the only reason to look into this great option.

What can you do there?

While every agriturismo strives to offer you a good relaxing getaway, many offer experiences that are quintessentially Italian. Ranging from simple hiking paths to pasta making, expect a variety of things to try and enjoy. The last two agriturismos we visited offered wine tasting and truffle hunting with the farm dog.

How do I build time into my itinerary for it?

We are huge advocates for using a travel cycle. Consider powering through a few days then using a getaway like an agriturismo as a built in vacation in the middle of your travels. Giving you time to recuperate and get ready for the next leg of your adventure, the stay here is down time well used and so unique to Italy.

Are there any drawbacks?

There are very few Agriturismos available by public transport meaning you are going to need a driver or a rental. That said, some will offer to pick up at a local train station. These accommodations are not in the city center close to the big draws. However, they work really well as a homebase to string together some day trips. Think Sienna, Pisa, and Montepulciano as a good example.

Sometimes, you may wind up in an agriturismo that is not geared toward your tastes and you need to be careful as you choose but considering the amazing amount of choices, you are bound to run into one that feel like a good fit.

Agriturismos follow a lot of rules and may not be able to provide everything you need be prepared for that. For example, the Tuscan area will not serve a Coke Zero but will offer you a local fizzy beverage in place of that. 

rows of green plants

Regardless of the area you want to explore, an agriturismo could be the very thing that you are looking for! There isn’t better service in Italy than an agriturismo!

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Extending travel efficiently.

Dear Babcia and YiaYia-

I have a great river cruise booked from Amsterdam to Basal, Switzerland! I’m so excited to see so many things. The cruise line says it will take care of my air arrangements if they want me to or I can do it myself. Is there a reason to not just  have them take care of everything? I don’t quite see the reason why I would do it on my own?

It sounds like such a great deal! But there a couple of things you should know when it comes to those too good to be true travel deals.

  • Getting a group rate airfare means that there is no upgrading and not many options. In short, the control of your flights does not belong to you.
  • You pay for how your time is used and keep that in mind for everything that you do.
  • You can’t use points or miles for upgrades
  • You can add the trip to your account though
  • If there is any delay or cancellations, the tour company or cruise line will be in charge of how the problem gets remedied.

world map with pins

The Before and After

Choose to fly in early and explore something close by or stay on later to enjoy after your tour. A few examples are PARIS, ROME, A GREEK ISLAND!

Even cruises are jumping on board the extended stays! Often, these are offered as an add on but look closely and you will see that they are easily arranged and cover simple venues and activities.

The Layover

The art of the layover has been analyzed from every angle possible!!! From Anthony Bourdain’s show to movies about airport life. The layover is a great way to capitalize on your time. Consider:

  • Airport Layovers like Munich or Istanbul
  • Get out layovers like Copenhagen or Heathrow
  • Airports that might have a tougher layover: Dublin, Paris, Amsterdam You need MORE than 10 hours to make these worth it. 

You have the options!

white and gray airplane on airport during daytime

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