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Tuesday, September 15, 2015
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Monday, September 7, 2015
80 Days Since I Left
I know I promised many people, including myself, that I would write one last post when I got back. I'm late in doing so and I can't even blame it one how busy I am because all of July and August was pretty laid back, I finished The Office on Netflix and got to season 6 on Grey's Anatomy. So you could say I have had more than enough time to write this post. I guess I wasn't ready for it to end, this blog was like one of my friends, to tell every little detail of my trips, my "firsts", my crazy and unbelievable stories, and everything else in between.
Another thing, I already ran out of my stroopwaffels and kinder bars. Very sad.
But now, my days are busy. I'm laying on my huge shag rug in my very own living room of my very own, first apartment and I already started my third year of college last week. Yet, I miss Europe every single day. It usually starts out by something in my day reminding me of a memory, a specific food, a person I met, or a place that then brings me to opening my photo gallery on my phone to find a photo of that memory, food, person, or place. Next, I run to my laptop to find more photos because then I'm reminiscing. This happens almost every day. I mean, yeah, it's sad because that part of my life is over unless I want to blow more money and time on a study abroad trip which won't happen. However, I know I'll be back very soon because of the people I met over there. I think it's more sad because I will never get to do those small every day things that I did over there. The things that came natural, things I adapted to. Like when I would walk through uni to grab the double decker uni bus to city centre, with my friends at that time, to go to a club called Cuban. Stuff like that would never happen or never be the same, that's the only sad part about it. The last two weeks there, I was having my "last's", like my last uni bus ride, last ASDA trip, last city centre shopping day, last night out with the girls, last night to sleep on that small and uncomfortable bed. But I know that it's okay because, hey, I got to do it. And the next place I travel, there will be something like that to experience and then to miss when I leave. I already plan on taking a backpack for a month to the other countries in Europe I haven't seen (and another trip to Italy of course) when I graduate college in two years. Maybe with Michaela. So, I just move on to new things.
On my last plane, that I took by myself, from Sicily to London I wrote some stuff down for this specific post. I wrote "I learned a lot about myself", because I did. I had so much time to myself on the trips that I went on alone. Hours of train rides, planes, sitting in a tourist crowded area to have lunch. I had a lot of time to be inside my head, a lot of time to just sit in there and think. In the last year, so much has happened to me and a lot of changes were happening so yeah, there was plenty to think about. I won't get into detail because it's very personal but it includes many areas of my life: family, friends, career, love, etc. Gave me a chance to reflect and change my opinions.
I also think about how many people told me that I was going to change when I get back to the States, yet I haven't seen any change. I'm still a quiet girl who wants to teach art for her career. I feel the same. But then there are times when I feel different mentally. I think life is too damn short. My mom and Europe taught me this. Europe taught me that there are so many places to see in the world, it just is not possible to see them all even though we all so badly want to. Planning my last few months of trips, I just could not fit it all in no matter how much I tried. Money and time is always the issue. Life is too damn short, for that reason and many others, it taught me to just do what you're considering because opportunities fleet and you may not have the same chance to do it again. You'll never know what could have happened if you don't do it. I mean, I do think of this and use this tactic when I am thinking about doing something I normally wouldn't do but I still back out. However, I just back out way less than I did before I studied abroad.
When I'm somewhere over 50 thinking about my younger years, I'll be proud. Because I had fun, I used my time wisely and I don't regret any of it. I as well will never stop traveling, whenever I get the chance I'll try. Sometimes, I do wish I went for a whole year to have more memories and places traveled but then I know I would have missed home to the point of crying (which I didn't ever cry over being homesick), I mean I did get sad but it would last maybe an hour because I knew I had a limited time in England. Anyway, I would probably spend more money out of my pocket for more trips around Europe, and I would end up buying another bag to bring home because of all of the Primark clothes I bought. My GPA would have gone down more as well. Yeah, I have never gotten anything lower than an A in college until I studied abroad. I was more focused on having fun and traveling that I received two B's, it wasn't like I just skipped class and didn't care because experiencing an abroad university was interesting to me. It's just that I didn't care as much as usually do in the States, and in the States I care way too much so it was nice to relax and not live at the library.
I highly recommend anyone who hasn't studied abroad, to do so because it is an experience like no other. I'm sure you've heard this before but come on, if you apply for scholarships.. you'll get scholarships. You get this money to not only continue studying for your degree but traveling to beautiful cities at the same time. Travel while you're young because you will see how much you enjoy these big cities or small hidden towns more than if you were 30 years old. When I went to Amsterdam, I knew damn well that I could never come back when I have a husband and/or child because it just is not a place to bring a family. But there are places like Greek Islands where you should bring your husband for a vacation. Also, if you wait to travel when you're older, it'll be difficult because you have bills to pay and jobs to go to, you can't just quit your job and throw everything you owe in your parents home for a few months to travel. You as well have something to talk about everyday for the rest of your life. I think almost everyday in a conversation I would have, something would bring up Europe. I have an International Buddy from Germany and we will talk about the differences between Europe and America and she would tell me the differences from specifically Germany and America (because I haven't made it to Germany yet). So, yeah, you should study abroad while you still can.
A huge thank you to my whole family who supported me from applying for the exchange program to flying home after five months. To the people who sent me letters and skyped me. To those who awarded me my scholarships and grants that made more possible. Lastly, of course, my grandmother Ann who helped me with every bump to get there, stay there, and come back. She made everything easier when she didn't have to. I could say more but I wouldn't want to make her cry, love you G.
A huge thank you to my whole family who supported me from applying for the exchange program to flying home after five months. To the people who sent me letters and skyped me. To those who awarded me my scholarships and grants that made more possible. Lastly, of course, my grandmother Ann who helped me with every bump to get there, stay there, and come back. She made everything easier when she didn't have to. I could say more but I wouldn't want to make her cry, love you G.
A video I put together of the videos I still had of my time there:
Another thing, I already ran out of my stroopwaffels and kinder bars. Very sad.
Thursday, June 18, 2015
Spain
Barcelona
We really only had one full day here, plus a half day when we got there. Felt like we were going to be there for like four days but it went super quick. We didn't notice that it was going to be a quick one. I surprised him with a day trip to Madrid. So the first night, after the taxi, buses, and flights we got to our amazing hotel. It was pretty dang nice compared to the other cheap ones I've stayed in. I've heard how cheap it was in Spain, and it's true. Very affordable for college kids. And our view was incredible, we were seventh floor. The eighth floor was the roof with a pool. Anyway, we went out to get dinner on a street next door. This street was great for food. Every one spoke English as well, so it was very easy to communicate, unlike French people. We were looking for tapas, Spanish rice as well (Paella). Our first dinner was great, I had some vegetables and then we shared a vegetarian paella. The paella is always served last and in a huge hot dish. Unfortunately, the waiter took the order wrong. He came with seafood paella. The shrimp had their eyes still and it was making me sick. Thank God we were able to switch with no problem. It was heaven. I will most likely try to cook this in my apartment this Fall. After dinner, we grabbed some gelato. They have gelato every where you turn here, I didn't think I was in Italy. Oh, we tried Manchego cheese, it's a special Spanish cheese. I loved it. Oh, and the gates that close the shops on the streets all have spray painted images, most times it was really cool images and designs.
The full day in Barcelona was perfect. Slept in a little and headed for the beach. The beach was not crowded or tourist filled, which was weird to me. It's June, summer and vacation time, and it's Barcelona. Why are their not more people? Anyway, the people who were there were topless. I mean the women were going topless. I mean I agree to the #freethenipple but it was a little hard not to be shocked being in that situation and setting for the first time. We laid around until it got a little hotter, then we went into the freezing water. The waves were crazy big, but I got used to it. It was like the wave pool at the Wisconsin Dell's (Amusement and Water Parks), takes me a while to consider and to do it. It was great until I spotted a dark pink jelly fish about two feet in front of me. I freaked. It was the length of a liter of soda. I mean, I freaked. Swam and ran away. Done for the day. After drying off, we got some food at a restaurant on the beach. I got a mojito and some chips with guacamole, cheese, and pico de gallo. Delicious. It hit the spot. When you go to Spain, get a mojito. Do it. Went back for some gelato and to get ready for the Sagrada Familia. We walked there, only took about 40 minutes. Got to walk by some cool stuff. Barcelona has some crazy cool and fun architecture. When we got there, it was insane. The outside was rather dirty, I wish it was cleaner. But the inside was insane as well, I mean it was crazy cool and fun. The colors and the shapes and designs, all very fun. After, while walking back, I grabbed some churros. And we hit the mall, shopped for candy. At the El Mercat, I found heaven. It was a candy store called Happy Pills. You would pick a size of pill jar and fill it with all different kinds of candies, and even pick out a sticker that says when to eat a happy pill (candy). Dinner was again great, more paella. Todd found cheese curds on the menu and I was so happy. Gelato again tonight.
Madrid
So we woke up early for an hour and twenty minute plane ride from Barcelona to Madrid. Took the metro into town. We really didn't have any plans except the Guernica by Picasso painting, but I looked at the hours and of course... the museum is closed on Tuesdays. So now, not only do I have to go back to Milan for The Last Supper, I as well have to go back to Madrid for the Guernica by Picasso. Got some lunch, took a while to find something on the menu that was available. Every time I ordered something, the guy was like "don't have". Ended up with a cheese crepe and a mojito. Oh and walking down the shopping streets, there were people dressed in costumes (like New York City) and two tiny, short, little smurfs were there. One of them was laughing and chasing me. Sounds funny? No, it was creepy and scary. After walking up and down those streets, we went to the Retiro Park. Had a dessert there, I had a chocolate pastry that looked like a chocolate covered pretzel, he had another eau claire. After that, took the metro to the Plaza de Espana. Then the metro back and the plane back. The view from the plane was amazing, it was sunset pink clouds and raining in one part, mountains, and foggy in another spot. Got back to the hotel around 10pm. Ordered some pizza from downstairs and watched Orange is the New Black. Passed out.
Woke up from the sun shining in. Thank God, because I thought our flight back to London was around 4pm. I checked because I am always paranoid about being early. Our flight was in two hours and 20 minutes. Oh my God. We packed and ran to a taxi. Traffic. Long lines. But, we made it. We even had enough time to sit down for some juice and breakfast. Oh, saw a rainbow in the sky.
We really only had one full day here, plus a half day when we got there. Felt like we were going to be there for like four days but it went super quick. We didn't notice that it was going to be a quick one. I surprised him with a day trip to Madrid. So the first night, after the taxi, buses, and flights we got to our amazing hotel. It was pretty dang nice compared to the other cheap ones I've stayed in. I've heard how cheap it was in Spain, and it's true. Very affordable for college kids. And our view was incredible, we were seventh floor. The eighth floor was the roof with a pool. Anyway, we went out to get dinner on a street next door. This street was great for food. Every one spoke English as well, so it was very easy to communicate, unlike French people. We were looking for tapas, Spanish rice as well (Paella). Our first dinner was great, I had some vegetables and then we shared a vegetarian paella. The paella is always served last and in a huge hot dish. Unfortunately, the waiter took the order wrong. He came with seafood paella. The shrimp had their eyes still and it was making me sick. Thank God we were able to switch with no problem. It was heaven. I will most likely try to cook this in my apartment this Fall. After dinner, we grabbed some gelato. They have gelato every where you turn here, I didn't think I was in Italy. Oh, we tried Manchego cheese, it's a special Spanish cheese. I loved it. Oh, and the gates that close the shops on the streets all have spray painted images, most times it was really cool images and designs.
The full day in Barcelona was perfect. Slept in a little and headed for the beach. The beach was not crowded or tourist filled, which was weird to me. It's June, summer and vacation time, and it's Barcelona. Why are their not more people? Anyway, the people who were there were topless. I mean the women were going topless. I mean I agree to the #freethenipple but it was a little hard not to be shocked being in that situation and setting for the first time. We laid around until it got a little hotter, then we went into the freezing water. The waves were crazy big, but I got used to it. It was like the wave pool at the Wisconsin Dell's (Amusement and Water Parks), takes me a while to consider and to do it. It was great until I spotted a dark pink jelly fish about two feet in front of me. I freaked. It was the length of a liter of soda. I mean, I freaked. Swam and ran away. Done for the day. After drying off, we got some food at a restaurant on the beach. I got a mojito and some chips with guacamole, cheese, and pico de gallo. Delicious. It hit the spot. When you go to Spain, get a mojito. Do it. Went back for some gelato and to get ready for the Sagrada Familia. We walked there, only took about 40 minutes. Got to walk by some cool stuff. Barcelona has some crazy cool and fun architecture. When we got there, it was insane. The outside was rather dirty, I wish it was cleaner. But the inside was insane as well, I mean it was crazy cool and fun. The colors and the shapes and designs, all very fun. After, while walking back, I grabbed some churros. And we hit the mall, shopped for candy. At the El Mercat, I found heaven. It was a candy store called Happy Pills. You would pick a size of pill jar and fill it with all different kinds of candies, and even pick out a sticker that says when to eat a happy pill (candy). Dinner was again great, more paella. Todd found cheese curds on the menu and I was so happy. Gelato again tonight.
Madrid
So we woke up early for an hour and twenty minute plane ride from Barcelona to Madrid. Took the metro into town. We really didn't have any plans except the Guernica by Picasso painting, but I looked at the hours and of course... the museum is closed on Tuesdays. So now, not only do I have to go back to Milan for The Last Supper, I as well have to go back to Madrid for the Guernica by Picasso. Got some lunch, took a while to find something on the menu that was available. Every time I ordered something, the guy was like "don't have". Ended up with a cheese crepe and a mojito. Oh and walking down the shopping streets, there were people dressed in costumes (like New York City) and two tiny, short, little smurfs were there. One of them was laughing and chasing me. Sounds funny? No, it was creepy and scary. After walking up and down those streets, we went to the Retiro Park. Had a dessert there, I had a chocolate pastry that looked like a chocolate covered pretzel, he had another eau claire. After that, took the metro to the Plaza de Espana. Then the metro back and the plane back. The view from the plane was amazing, it was sunset pink clouds and raining in one part, mountains, and foggy in another spot. Got back to the hotel around 10pm. Ordered some pizza from downstairs and watched Orange is the New Black. Passed out.
Woke up from the sun shining in. Thank God, because I thought our flight back to London was around 4pm. I checked because I am always paranoid about being early. Our flight was in two hours and 20 minutes. Oh my God. We packed and ran to a taxi. Traffic. Long lines. But, we made it. We even had enough time to sit down for some juice and breakfast. Oh, saw a rainbow in the sky.
Paris Once Again
Only two days in Paris, my second and last visit this year. We took the Eurostar from London St. Pancras to Gare Nord, got there sometime in the afternoon. So once we got to the strange hotel, yet really nice because it had a small balcony and it was right next to the Luxemburg Gardens, we left for the Eiffel Tower. We walked, and on the way we tried to find food. Finding a restaurant that also has English translated menus that is not near to the Eiffel Tower is difficult. We did find one and I just got some cheesy mashed potatoes and some bread, however it was filling and satisfying. Took us about 40 minutes to get to the Eiffel tower. When we got there we decided to go look around for a blanket because the grass was filled with cigarette buds and trash, we gave up because most stores that were still open, didn't sell them. I guess it would be more dirty than when I was there in March because it's tourist season. Once we gave up, we were behind the Eiffel Tower and it started to glitter, I couldn't believe it was already 11pm, it was still twilight. March, it was so dark outside. We then grabbed dessert, I got a vanilla macaroon and he got a Nutella crepe. Also, something hilarious happened.. when we were standing under the tower we heard a bunch of jingling all of a sudden. It was all of the men selling the metal Eiffel Towers, they were running. At least ten of them ran right past us, and then three cops on bicycles followed. Coming back, we took the metro. Discovered that Paris has double decker metros. You would think London would have them instead.
The next day (our full day), we went to the Modern Art Museum (the last museum in Paris that I wanted to see). It was wonderful. After, we got some food for a difficult picnic. I only say difficult because we still didn't have a blanket and we didn't have a knife for our camembert cheese. It was still good. I had my baguette and the cheese and a cafe macaroon. We had it right in front of the Eiffel Tower as well. Then we took a metro to Montparnasse Tower for the view. My second time up there and I was still speechless. Then we took a nap at the hotel. Woke up and left for the Eiffel Tower, with a blanket. We grabbed some food to take away, and eat by the Tower. It was really expensive and crappy food. Not satisfying at all. I had cheese pasta and it had no flavour at all. He got a fourteen euro cheeseburger and it was crap too. We then laid around until 11pm again, just to watch the Eiffel Tower do it's magic for five minutes. After, I got another macaroon. It was a grande chocolate one. He got a cafe eau claire. Coming back, we got caught in the huge mob of tourists. It was crazy busy. The sky was also very very light grey, it was creepy and cool. Oh this morning, we took the metro the wrong way and ended up in zone three, on the out-skirts of Paris, oops.
The last morning, we walked around our hotel and found a large populated and shopping street, sat down at a cafe outside and got some coffee. I had a latte and he got a cappuccino. Found a space invader. Also, tried a donut that looked like a Italian bombalone but it was lie. Stupid jam inside than the cream. Also, hey, Paris has a ton of these weird motor bikes. They had two wheels in the front and one in the back. Anyway, after all of that, we laid in the Luxemburg Gardens and then grabbed some macaroons for the road. Took the Eurostar back to London and a Southeastern train to Canterbury. We only had one day to do laundry and re-pack for Spain.
The next day (our full day), we went to the Modern Art Museum (the last museum in Paris that I wanted to see). It was wonderful. After, we got some food for a difficult picnic. I only say difficult because we still didn't have a blanket and we didn't have a knife for our camembert cheese. It was still good. I had my baguette and the cheese and a cafe macaroon. We had it right in front of the Eiffel Tower as well. Then we took a metro to Montparnasse Tower for the view. My second time up there and I was still speechless. Then we took a nap at the hotel. Woke up and left for the Eiffel Tower, with a blanket. We grabbed some food to take away, and eat by the Tower. It was really expensive and crappy food. Not satisfying at all. I had cheese pasta and it had no flavour at all. He got a fourteen euro cheeseburger and it was crap too. We then laid around until 11pm again, just to watch the Eiffel Tower do it's magic for five minutes. After, I got another macaroon. It was a grande chocolate one. He got a cafe eau claire. Coming back, we got caught in the huge mob of tourists. It was crazy busy. The sky was also very very light grey, it was creepy and cool. Oh this morning, we took the metro the wrong way and ended up in zone three, on the out-skirts of Paris, oops.
The last morning, we walked around our hotel and found a large populated and shopping street, sat down at a cafe outside and got some coffee. I had a latte and he got a cappuccino. Found a space invader. Also, tried a donut that looked like a Italian bombalone but it was lie. Stupid jam inside than the cream. Also, hey, Paris has a ton of these weird motor bikes. They had two wheels in the front and one in the back. Anyway, after all of that, we laid in the Luxemburg Gardens and then grabbed some macaroons for the road. Took the Eurostar back to London and a Southeastern train to Canterbury. We only had one day to do laundry and re-pack for Spain.
London Once Again
I have been to London countless times when you count all of the times I had to have a bus layover for a trip else where. But, if you are only counting the times I went to explore for a few days, then this would be my third time. I just got back from Italy and had less than 24 hours before I had to get on a bus to London. It was an insane few hours, of unpacking, laundry, re-packing, cleaning, washing up, etc. And this time, I headed to the Heathrow airport. It was crazy to be there because the last time I was at that airport was when I got here in January. Besides crazy, it was also very sad because I'll be there in a few days to go back to America. Anyway, I picked Todd up and we headed to our hotel to nap and finally get up to see London because it was about 11am when we got to the hotel. That day, we walked to the Houses of the Parliament (Big Ben) which was only about half an hour walk. We also rode the London Eye with our well-needed coffee. After that, we walked to Picadilly Circus with a stop by the Trafalgar Square to grab some food. We had some naked burritos that, I think, weren't so satisfying. Oh, We also hit up M&M World because light pink peanut M&Ms are life. When we got to Picadilly Circus, we took a photo and got on the tube to get back to the hotel.
The next day, we slept in a little, got on a tube and headed for the Borough Market for some food. I had the most amazing plate of a four cheese breaded thing with a side of hummus. The guy even poured a little olive oil on top of the hummus and a few chick peas. Also, he put some chili dipping sauce on the side as well. It was heaven. I am so happy because the first time I went to the Borough Market, I didn't eat because I had the worst tummy ache. He had some kind of meat wrap. He loved the Borough Market the most out of London, I can just tell. After, we grabbed some fresh juice, I almost got watermelon but I bought the pineapple and orange, he just got plain old lemonade. Next time, I'll get the watermelon. Then we walked over to the Tower Bridge. We bought the tickets to go up and walk on the glass. It was awesome. Then we went to the Natural History Museum, walked around. And then, we walked through a park/garden to the Marble Arch. Saw an older lady pouring bird food out for all of the pigeon right next to the Marble Arch. That will be me in fifty years. Walked down Oxford Street, and then found a pub for dinner. I had the most amazing pub dish ever, probably only saying that because I love cheese curds and miss them. Well, it was called "Veggie Fish and Chips". It was literally three big pieces of fried cheese. I was also upset that I haven't discovered that sooner. Of course I find the English cheese curds the last few days that I am here. Oh well.
The last full day was spent waking up for the changing of the guards. I think that was the dumbest thing. If they do that every day at 11am, thats too much. Too many tourists and too much standing around, just for a few horses and guards to walk by. It probably would have been better if I got a picture of the guard walking up to the fence, but that means I would have to be seven feet tall of be there an hour early to get a spot on the fence. We left early because we weren't feeling it. Also, I wanted candy because it felt like a parade but no candy was being thrown. We went back to the hotel because we were freezing and didn't bring a jumper (sweater). We walked to New Covent Garden Market to find that it was under construction so we had to take the tube to Camden Market. Which it was fine, we were really hungry, but we found a great pub and I tried the Vegetarian spicy bean burger. It has been a while since I had a burger. It was amazing, I was incredibly full. Walked through Camden Market a bit. Left after an hour or so, Todd didn't really like it. We walked to Sherlock Holme's Museum (House). It was pretty cool, we didn't take the tour or whatever because apparently it wasn't available until after 5pm. We were tired and didn't want to wait. Went back to the hotel to freshen up and went back to Big Ben to see it at twilight and at night. As well as the London Eye. It was beautiful, I have been wanting to do that for a while and the last night in London, I finally did it. Walked back and found an Italian restaurant to order some pizza and pasta for take away. Watched Orange is the New Black (Finished already!) and ate our food, then passed out. Left in the morning for Paris.
The next day, we slept in a little, got on a tube and headed for the Borough Market for some food. I had the most amazing plate of a four cheese breaded thing with a side of hummus. The guy even poured a little olive oil on top of the hummus and a few chick peas. Also, he put some chili dipping sauce on the side as well. It was heaven. I am so happy because the first time I went to the Borough Market, I didn't eat because I had the worst tummy ache. He had some kind of meat wrap. He loved the Borough Market the most out of London, I can just tell. After, we grabbed some fresh juice, I almost got watermelon but I bought the pineapple and orange, he just got plain old lemonade. Next time, I'll get the watermelon. Then we walked over to the Tower Bridge. We bought the tickets to go up and walk on the glass. It was awesome. Then we went to the Natural History Museum, walked around. And then, we walked through a park/garden to the Marble Arch. Saw an older lady pouring bird food out for all of the pigeon right next to the Marble Arch. That will be me in fifty years. Walked down Oxford Street, and then found a pub for dinner. I had the most amazing pub dish ever, probably only saying that because I love cheese curds and miss them. Well, it was called "Veggie Fish and Chips". It was literally three big pieces of fried cheese. I was also upset that I haven't discovered that sooner. Of course I find the English cheese curds the last few days that I am here. Oh well.
The last full day was spent waking up for the changing of the guards. I think that was the dumbest thing. If they do that every day at 11am, thats too much. Too many tourists and too much standing around, just for a few horses and guards to walk by. It probably would have been better if I got a picture of the guard walking up to the fence, but that means I would have to be seven feet tall of be there an hour early to get a spot on the fence. We left early because we weren't feeling it. Also, I wanted candy because it felt like a parade but no candy was being thrown. We went back to the hotel because we were freezing and didn't bring a jumper (sweater). We walked to New Covent Garden Market to find that it was under construction so we had to take the tube to Camden Market. Which it was fine, we were really hungry, but we found a great pub and I tried the Vegetarian spicy bean burger. It has been a while since I had a burger. It was amazing, I was incredibly full. Walked through Camden Market a bit. Left after an hour or so, Todd didn't really like it. We walked to Sherlock Holme's Museum (House). It was pretty cool, we didn't take the tour or whatever because apparently it wasn't available until after 5pm. We were tired and didn't want to wait. Went back to the hotel to freshen up and went back to Big Ben to see it at twilight and at night. As well as the London Eye. It was beautiful, I have been wanting to do that for a while and the last night in London, I finally did it. Walked back and found an Italian restaurant to order some pizza and pasta for take away. Watched Orange is the New Black (Finished already!) and ate our food, then passed out. Left in the morning for Paris.
Sunday, June 7, 2015
Mondello, Sicilia, Italia
Originally, I wanted to stay in Palermo (the capital of Sicily). I booked a homestay from Homestay.com and thought this place in Mondello was close enough to Palermo. It was still a drive but that was fine because honestly, I liked Mondello way more. The beach and the view from the mountain I climbed. Palermo was great, don't get me wrong, I went there for half a day and saw a lot. Including the Catacombes, the port, the Cathedral, Quattro Conti (basically a four-way road in centre of the city), the Ballarò Mercato (a market), and etc. I wouldn't have known what to even look for besides the catacombes and the cathedral without the help of my homestay familia. I got extremely lucky when I ended up with this familia in Mondello. I was told how nice Sicilians can be and it really is true. I felt like a part of their family. Silvia and Baldo and their son Fabrizio and his fiancé Valeria were the nicest they could be. Fabrizio and Valeria are learning English with a Philippine man via Skype and vise versa. So their English is very, very good. I helped them with pronunciations sometimes. I made a deal with Valeria that I could roll my "R's" in five months. Maybe.
I was picked up by Silvia and Baldo (o Boldo?) at the airport and came to find out they prepared a potato and ham dish for a late dinner for me. Only thing, I am a vegetarian. But no problem, she made some pasta for me. She is a super hero doing everything she does with the home and cooking and helping with anything and everything. They knew a good amount of english as well. I watched The Simpsons Movie with Baldo with Italian subtitles so it was pretty cool. He even told me that the subtitles are in Sicilian. Yeah, for those of you who don't know.. there are over 700 different dialects in Italy. It's like how the United Kingdom has the Wales accent and Scottish, Irish, and English. Well, there are over 700 different ones in Italy. That's crazy. They couldn't tell the difference between my American accent and an English (but said the American ones are easier to understand) however they could tell that the Italian couple staying with them from Genova had a different dialect than them. Crazy. I remember being told last year, that Nonna from Giano (Southern Italy) was hard to understand because of her different dialect but I didn't think there would be so many. I thought only Northern and Southern and probably Sicilian, but no no no no.
Breakfast was always an espresso and a croissant filled with the egg cream, perfect. Oh and one morning I got croissants filled with a flavour, I had a half of a white chocolate and half of a pistachio and woah, the flavour was insane. Oh, and the last night, I had a knock at my door with a briche filled with caffe gelato and whip cream on top. From Moritzio, the ice cream man that drives around there neighbourhood. Definitely a crazy taste, but something you should try in Sicilia.
I remember going to Palermo like I said, the first day. Also, in Palermo they have a museum with the writings from witches on walls right before they were killed, written in urine, feces, and blood. I didn't pay to see but wow. I was shown a park by Fabrizo and Valeria, and she was suppose to give me names of the stuff I learned but I forgot to ask. I remember learning about the Sicilian flag, the legs point to the three parts of Sicily. Oh, when parking your car in a free parking spot, it's not free. The street guys who sell you crap like sunglasses or towels, or coconuts, etc.. well they sit there and wait for you to park and expect some money (like fifty cents). If you don't pay, you come back to your car broken. That's insane. After my morning and early afternoon in Palermo, I went to the beach in Mondello. Breath-taking. Mountains are everywhere you turn. Having breakfast with everyone on their terrace, I was blown away by them but it was just every where you go. Can we trade the Midwest flats with the Sicilian mountains please? The water was so clear. Santorini was really blue but this water was so clear, you can walk and see where you step and the sand was white, you could also walk for a long way out and still not be shoulder deep. I was once pretty far out and i was only knee deep. Michaela (scared of fish) would have loved it, I didn't see ANY fish and it's shallow as heck.
Came back a little burned on my shoulders from walking around Palermo. But also came back with a tummy filled with an Aranchini. I was told about this and the granita (which I got limoni granita in Palermo, so goooooood) by Alessandra and Giacomo. I ordered an aranchini without meat (senza carne) and it was amazing. Took me two bites to consider if I liked it or not. It is basically a fried rice ball with different fillings. I think mine was the rice (obviously) and then mashed potato.
The next day, breakfast and off to Monreale. Monreale for the cathedral. It was filled with mosaics as well as Ravenna had. I got a cheap mosaic ring there. I also got a Panne Conzata because when they dropped me off, they said this was there thing. I got one, it was basically a sandwich. Mine was good but way too big, I got one with mozzarella, olive oil, pepe (pepper) and tomato. Climbed to the top of the cathedral for an amazing view. Well worth the 2.50 euro. While climbing, I was near someone who spoke English and she said to me (because the walk ways were so tiny), "imagine two Americans trying to pass one another!". Obviously she had no idea that I was an American, but yeah, Americans can be larger than Europeans. This also reminds me of when Michaela and I went to see Pitch Perfect 2 at the movies and when an American said in the movie, "they (Europeans) hate us!", some British girls next to us laughed and said "ITS TRUE!". They had no idea they were sitting right next to two Americans.
After Monreale, I slept a little and then went for a run to the beach and the hike up the mountain. The beach, when I got there was green. What happened? I have no idea but glad I swam the day before. The mountain was horrible but worth it. My only regret was not buying the larger water bottle, when I just simply bought a small one. I ran out of water before I got to the top. The view though, it was like no other. I think this is the top three views I have ever witnessed (not in order): San Marino Castle, Santorini Light House, and Riserva Naturale del Monte Gallo (this view). Incredible. Going up, I felt like I was on the Survivor because of my empty water bottle and finding aloe plants on the side of the road for my shoulders. Coming down, I was stopped by men freaking out at me in Italian and I got out of their mouths that it was a private residence where I came from and that they didn't see me. So I said, "non lo so" and "Sono American, mi dispiache" which is, "I don't know" and "I am American, I'm Sorry". They finally gave up trying to explain and said ciao. I won't say anything else. I got amazing pictures and the most beautiful scene in front of me, breath-taking (or breathless from the walk up).
So that night we booked myself a train to Trapani. Over three hours in a train. Not worth it. Trapani scared me, I felt so unsafe and my stomach was hurting really bad that entire morning. I was getting cat called by men saying, "ciao, ciao bella". It was dirty, with garbage everywhere. Also, no one around. I felt like someone could have drove a van up next to me and take me without anyone noticing. That's why I didn't go into the streets to find the cable cars up to the town Erice or to find the sea salt. I stayed on the beach walk and didn't go far on that either. Didn't try to find the port for the ferries to go to Favignana (an island nearby). Decided to buy an earlier train ticket right back to Mondello. But I had four hours to waste until the next one came. I was so tired too. I was up buying the Trapani ticket after midnight and having to wake up at 5am to get ready. Wasn't a fun day at all. Would I go back to see the cable cars, sea salt, Favignana? Yes, only if I had a group of people with me and I had a rented car.
Found some pink sand in an area though, but I also did see a man fully nude on the beach tanning. But I did buy some limoni granita in Trapani and I think it was better than the one I got in Palermo. Helped my tummy ache too. Oh and the night before, when we stayed up late buying the ticket, we had Panella and Crocché for dinner. Fried Sicilian food, we ordered it. All fried foods are good, so yeah.
Anyway, if you would like to see Palermo/Mondello, stay with this family, seriously. It really is affordable and they really help you to be as comfortable as possible. As well, they offer food and transport (for a fee, but come on, you get the real stuff).
https://www.homestay.com/italy/palermo/64407-homestay-in-partanna-mondello-palermo
I was picked up by Silvia and Baldo (o Boldo?) at the airport and came to find out they prepared a potato and ham dish for a late dinner for me. Only thing, I am a vegetarian. But no problem, she made some pasta for me. She is a super hero doing everything she does with the home and cooking and helping with anything and everything. They knew a good amount of english as well. I watched The Simpsons Movie with Baldo with Italian subtitles so it was pretty cool. He even told me that the subtitles are in Sicilian. Yeah, for those of you who don't know.. there are over 700 different dialects in Italy. It's like how the United Kingdom has the Wales accent and Scottish, Irish, and English. Well, there are over 700 different ones in Italy. That's crazy. They couldn't tell the difference between my American accent and an English (but said the American ones are easier to understand) however they could tell that the Italian couple staying with them from Genova had a different dialect than them. Crazy. I remember being told last year, that Nonna from Giano (Southern Italy) was hard to understand because of her different dialect but I didn't think there would be so many. I thought only Northern and Southern and probably Sicilian, but no no no no.
Breakfast was always an espresso and a croissant filled with the egg cream, perfect. Oh and one morning I got croissants filled with a flavour, I had a half of a white chocolate and half of a pistachio and woah, the flavour was insane. Oh, and the last night, I had a knock at my door with a briche filled with caffe gelato and whip cream on top. From Moritzio, the ice cream man that drives around there neighbourhood. Definitely a crazy taste, but something you should try in Sicilia.
I remember going to Palermo like I said, the first day. Also, in Palermo they have a museum with the writings from witches on walls right before they were killed, written in urine, feces, and blood. I didn't pay to see but wow. I was shown a park by Fabrizo and Valeria, and she was suppose to give me names of the stuff I learned but I forgot to ask. I remember learning about the Sicilian flag, the legs point to the three parts of Sicily. Oh, when parking your car in a free parking spot, it's not free. The street guys who sell you crap like sunglasses or towels, or coconuts, etc.. well they sit there and wait for you to park and expect some money (like fifty cents). If you don't pay, you come back to your car broken. That's insane. After my morning and early afternoon in Palermo, I went to the beach in Mondello. Breath-taking. Mountains are everywhere you turn. Having breakfast with everyone on their terrace, I was blown away by them but it was just every where you go. Can we trade the Midwest flats with the Sicilian mountains please? The water was so clear. Santorini was really blue but this water was so clear, you can walk and see where you step and the sand was white, you could also walk for a long way out and still not be shoulder deep. I was once pretty far out and i was only knee deep. Michaela (scared of fish) would have loved it, I didn't see ANY fish and it's shallow as heck.
Came back a little burned on my shoulders from walking around Palermo. But also came back with a tummy filled with an Aranchini. I was told about this and the granita (which I got limoni granita in Palermo, so goooooood) by Alessandra and Giacomo. I ordered an aranchini without meat (senza carne) and it was amazing. Took me two bites to consider if I liked it or not. It is basically a fried rice ball with different fillings. I think mine was the rice (obviously) and then mashed potato.
The next day, breakfast and off to Monreale. Monreale for the cathedral. It was filled with mosaics as well as Ravenna had. I got a cheap mosaic ring there. I also got a Panne Conzata because when they dropped me off, they said this was there thing. I got one, it was basically a sandwich. Mine was good but way too big, I got one with mozzarella, olive oil, pepe (pepper) and tomato. Climbed to the top of the cathedral for an amazing view. Well worth the 2.50 euro. While climbing, I was near someone who spoke English and she said to me (because the walk ways were so tiny), "imagine two Americans trying to pass one another!". Obviously she had no idea that I was an American, but yeah, Americans can be larger than Europeans. This also reminds me of when Michaela and I went to see Pitch Perfect 2 at the movies and when an American said in the movie, "they (Europeans) hate us!", some British girls next to us laughed and said "ITS TRUE!". They had no idea they were sitting right next to two Americans.
After Monreale, I slept a little and then went for a run to the beach and the hike up the mountain. The beach, when I got there was green. What happened? I have no idea but glad I swam the day before. The mountain was horrible but worth it. My only regret was not buying the larger water bottle, when I just simply bought a small one. I ran out of water before I got to the top. The view though, it was like no other. I think this is the top three views I have ever witnessed (not in order): San Marino Castle, Santorini Light House, and Riserva Naturale del Monte Gallo (this view). Incredible. Going up, I felt like I was on the Survivor because of my empty water bottle and finding aloe plants on the side of the road for my shoulders. Coming down, I was stopped by men freaking out at me in Italian and I got out of their mouths that it was a private residence where I came from and that they didn't see me. So I said, "non lo so" and "Sono American, mi dispiache" which is, "I don't know" and "I am American, I'm Sorry". They finally gave up trying to explain and said ciao. I won't say anything else. I got amazing pictures and the most beautiful scene in front of me, breath-taking (or breathless from the walk up).
So that night we booked myself a train to Trapani. Over three hours in a train. Not worth it. Trapani scared me, I felt so unsafe and my stomach was hurting really bad that entire morning. I was getting cat called by men saying, "ciao, ciao bella". It was dirty, with garbage everywhere. Also, no one around. I felt like someone could have drove a van up next to me and take me without anyone noticing. That's why I didn't go into the streets to find the cable cars up to the town Erice or to find the sea salt. I stayed on the beach walk and didn't go far on that either. Didn't try to find the port for the ferries to go to Favignana (an island nearby). Decided to buy an earlier train ticket right back to Mondello. But I had four hours to waste until the next one came. I was so tired too. I was up buying the Trapani ticket after midnight and having to wake up at 5am to get ready. Wasn't a fun day at all. Would I go back to see the cable cars, sea salt, Favignana? Yes, only if I had a group of people with me and I had a rented car.
Found some pink sand in an area though, but I also did see a man fully nude on the beach tanning. But I did buy some limoni granita in Trapani and I think it was better than the one I got in Palermo. Helped my tummy ache too. Oh and the night before, when we stayed up late buying the ticket, we had Panella and Crocché for dinner. Fried Sicilian food, we ordered it. All fried foods are good, so yeah.
Anyway, if you would like to see Palermo/Mondello, stay with this family, seriously. It really is affordable and they really help you to be as comfortable as possible. As well, they offer food and transport (for a fee, but come on, you get the real stuff).
https://www.homestay.com/italy/palermo/64407-homestay-in-partanna-mondello-palermo
Cesena, Italia
May 26th was when I left for Italy, so I probably will miss many details since that was over two weeks ago. It's my second time here, in the same house, with the same family just for those of you who didn't know. Last year, I traveled Italy for a little over a month and it was amazing. I saw Pisa, Firenze, Napoli, Roma, Pompeii, Giano, Cesena (obviousy), Bellaria, Rimini, and Venice. I just had to come back to see Milano for the Last Supper and to see Sicilia. Well, I saw Milano, just not The Last Supper. Apparently, you have to book ahead of time and it makes sense but I never really considered it. So, I'll be back soon. After about six days in Cesena, I took a plane down to Palermo, Sicily. But first, Cesena.
Cesena
This family is something special. Home-y, beyond delicious homemade Italian food, and a bellissimo familia. I was picked up by Fabio at the airport, he is amazing. Also, he isn't that crazy of a driver, Italians are absolutely crazy on the road (la strada). He can understand a lot of English but can't talk that much. Lucky me, because I don't know hardly any Italian... which might change once I land in America. After those few days, I knew I would come back some day and I would love to learn the language. I took about five years of Spanish and I barely remember any of it. I think Italian would be perfect to learn. Out of all of the European countries that I had the opportunity to experience.. Italy is probably my favourite (Santorini very, very close to beating it though) so I will be coming back as much as I can in my life. I as well think it is a very beautiful language. Hey, I know some words. I probably knew more last year because I was there for a month, and in the past year I lost it so I regaining it again quickly in this year's week.
Dante. Dante is a slight obsession of mine. Dante is their gatto di familia (is that right?). Their family cat, I met Dante last year and I fell in love. Dante has a smushed face, and I love that in animals. Hence, my dog has a slightly smushed in face and I want a snorting pug. Anyway, Dante was shaved when I arrived, besides the face. Ugly and beautiful. Alessandra (the madre of the familia) said the tail reminds her of an umbilical cord. There was also a very funny story of her and her fear of lizards (which is insanely funny, for me at least) with a mop and Dante. The end of the story, Dante passes out from getting hit by Alessandra's mop. Oh, they got a new cat named Paco. Dare devil with bruises but apparently he is a normal cat compared to Dante.
Alessandra's food. Yum. Before anything, she made my favourite. She made it last year and it was so good, I made it as soon as I got back to America in 2014. Chocolate Salami. It's a frozen chocolate dessert that when cut into, it looks like salami (the meat). I'm pretty sure when I get back to America this year and into my new apartment, I will make it again along with her recipe for bombalones. Bombalones are the Italian donut with a egg cream filling. Ugh, can't get enough of those as well. Alessandra also made, besides the chocolate salami, a strawberry tiramisu and a caffe tiramisu, also homemade gelato, and a strawberry milkshake. She has a mini garden this summer so lots and lots of strawberries. She is growing other many goodies but she has butt loads of sweet strawberries. I wasn't complaining. One day I walked into two bowls filled with cherries from her friend's cherry tree. Besides having her delicious desserts and fruits, her pasta, handmade pizza, and the piadinas were just what I needed. I didn't realize how much I missed Italian food until I smelled it the first day. Just like when I was landing in Bologna on the 26th, I was smiling ear to ear because I didn't realise how much I missed Italia. Oh, and someone gave us beer-amisu and some black liquorice.
I also had gelato from the streets of Italy. I had occholia and caffe once. Pineapple and banana another time, and once more with crema de latte (pretty sure i got that wrong) and marscapone. My spelling is probably all wrong too, but I'll learn.
I went to Milan for a whole day, via Trenitalia. Solo trip, normal for me now. I found out how much I like to travel alone. Milano was pretty, the Duomo was the best part obviously. While I was there, the Expo 2015 was happening. There was a huge stage with live radio music playing with a huge crowd right in front of the Duomo. Pretty cool to see. Figured out the metro to get from the train station to the Dumo and back. Saw the high shops, the skinny alley, the castle, and much more.
Coming back, I forgot what night, but I think it was that night or the following.. I went out with Steven (the oldest son, my age) and Lucia (a friend and part of the family, a year younger) and Giacomo. Well, we just went for my first gelato (caffe and nocchiola) and after got some drinks at the same bar I first went to last year with the boys (last year I traveled with three boys around Italy). This time at the bar, I didn't feel the excitement because last year I was ordering my first alcoholic drink legally and this year it's completely normal for me. Europe changes you. Anyway, last year I had a strong Long Island Iced Tea and I was close to being drunk. This time, I had an equally as strong drink called Long Red and it did the same, I don't think they noticed but it only lasted for about ten minutes. Don't laugh at me.
Driving through the same parts from last year was amazing. I missed the San Marino hill at night with all the lights glowing on the hooked mountain the very most. I also looked for it once in the car. They blasted Numero Uno (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N4S8bDzS0BM) in the car. Also drove on the prostitute road again and learned a very, very bad word. God Pig (Dio Porco). The other night when we went out for Christian's birthday (not the youngest son in the family, another Christian). We went to the same bar, now my third time at this bar by the beach. Met some really cool people. Three super nice girls and some crazy guys, one guy was drunk enough for us all and when he was trying to speak english it was crazy hilarious. He kept trying to tell me that all girls at discos are bitches (sorry grandma for the language). And when he said "disco" he would do a small dance, probably because he thought I didn't know what a disco was. He kept us entertained. They were all very cool and very nice. They were constantly trying to speak english to me and teaching me Italian. Sorry to Steven for being the translator for most of the night. Which also for Alessandra during the dinners.. with Fabio constantly poking your arm. Still very happy I got a photo of it happening!
Met the dogs in the back. An alfa was present in the two. At the market that Steven took me to one morning, he was looking at dog beds and I was super confused, thinking that he only has two cats. But then I remember the barking in the back of their home after he reminded me of them.
Went to Ravenna for some absolutely gorgeous and colorful mosaics. I also found tons of Space Invaders in Ravenna! Duh, because the space invaders are made of ceramic tiles. Ravenna was a pretty town, very peaceful and filled with culture and art. I went with Alessandra, we took gelato selfies and found two lizards (not her favourite part). Practically made my heart skip a beat when I heard her scream.
Another day, Fabio and Alessandra took me to Siena, Arezzo, Lucignano, and a place with the sword in the rock and with a (I completely forgot the name) church with the ceiling gone and open to the sky. The place with the sword was spent laughing with Alessandra like hyenas, which was even worse because it was meant to be quiet in that place. We were laughing at pictures of Dante and Paco on her phone. We were bad. Siena was the main reason for our long day journey. It will be a day to remember for sure. We saw so many beautiful things. The duomo in Siena was probably my favourite, it was stunning. The colors were the main reason. Last time they went, it was dirty and you couldn't see the pink, but they washed it so now it's all white and light pink. This entire day, we walked over 12 miles I think. We also ran into a wedding in Siena, which is common for Fabio and Alessandra.
Fabio and I like to run. We first went to the same place from last year (over three miles) and then the next time, we ran five miles along the Cesenatico beach (first time running on sand). Loved it.
Gina came over for my last dinner in the house, we had their homemade pizza. Also, stop using the pizza rollers America, use scissors to cut the pizza. It is SO MUCH easier, seriously, try it next time you have pizza. Maybe it wont work though with the thick American pizzas. Gina was so nice to give me some Italian chocolate to take home, even though I haven't even touched the ones I saved for myself from last year.
Before leaving for Palermo, everyone including me were trying really hard to get Alessandra to come to Palermo with me. But unfortunately, all the cheap seat were taken and she had Christian's graduation. So I had to leave the Fabio, Alessandra, Steven, Veronica, Christian, and Dante on the 1st of June. Took a quick night plane to Palermo.
Will post as soon as possible about Palermo today. I have to leave for London at 5am (so 8 hours from now) and I won't be back for a few days. I'll be staying in London and then Paris. One night Canterbury and then off to Barcelona, Spain. So, very busy starting now. I'll have three days to clean and pack for going back to America after Spain is finished. Ciao.
Cesena
This family is something special. Home-y, beyond delicious homemade Italian food, and a bellissimo familia. I was picked up by Fabio at the airport, he is amazing. Also, he isn't that crazy of a driver, Italians are absolutely crazy on the road (la strada). He can understand a lot of English but can't talk that much. Lucky me, because I don't know hardly any Italian... which might change once I land in America. After those few days, I knew I would come back some day and I would love to learn the language. I took about five years of Spanish and I barely remember any of it. I think Italian would be perfect to learn. Out of all of the European countries that I had the opportunity to experience.. Italy is probably my favourite (Santorini very, very close to beating it though) so I will be coming back as much as I can in my life. I as well think it is a very beautiful language. Hey, I know some words. I probably knew more last year because I was there for a month, and in the past year I lost it so I regaining it again quickly in this year's week.
Dante. Dante is a slight obsession of mine. Dante is their gatto di familia (is that right?). Their family cat, I met Dante last year and I fell in love. Dante has a smushed face, and I love that in animals. Hence, my dog has a slightly smushed in face and I want a snorting pug. Anyway, Dante was shaved when I arrived, besides the face. Ugly and beautiful. Alessandra (the madre of the familia) said the tail reminds her of an umbilical cord. There was also a very funny story of her and her fear of lizards (which is insanely funny, for me at least) with a mop and Dante. The end of the story, Dante passes out from getting hit by Alessandra's mop. Oh, they got a new cat named Paco. Dare devil with bruises but apparently he is a normal cat compared to Dante.
Alessandra's food. Yum. Before anything, she made my favourite. She made it last year and it was so good, I made it as soon as I got back to America in 2014. Chocolate Salami. It's a frozen chocolate dessert that when cut into, it looks like salami (the meat). I'm pretty sure when I get back to America this year and into my new apartment, I will make it again along with her recipe for bombalones. Bombalones are the Italian donut with a egg cream filling. Ugh, can't get enough of those as well. Alessandra also made, besides the chocolate salami, a strawberry tiramisu and a caffe tiramisu, also homemade gelato, and a strawberry milkshake. She has a mini garden this summer so lots and lots of strawberries. She is growing other many goodies but she has butt loads of sweet strawberries. I wasn't complaining. One day I walked into two bowls filled with cherries from her friend's cherry tree. Besides having her delicious desserts and fruits, her pasta, handmade pizza, and the piadinas were just what I needed. I didn't realize how much I missed Italian food until I smelled it the first day. Just like when I was landing in Bologna on the 26th, I was smiling ear to ear because I didn't realise how much I missed Italia. Oh, and someone gave us beer-amisu and some black liquorice.
I also had gelato from the streets of Italy. I had occholia and caffe once. Pineapple and banana another time, and once more with crema de latte (pretty sure i got that wrong) and marscapone. My spelling is probably all wrong too, but I'll learn.
I went to Milan for a whole day, via Trenitalia. Solo trip, normal for me now. I found out how much I like to travel alone. Milano was pretty, the Duomo was the best part obviously. While I was there, the Expo 2015 was happening. There was a huge stage with live radio music playing with a huge crowd right in front of the Duomo. Pretty cool to see. Figured out the metro to get from the train station to the Dumo and back. Saw the high shops, the skinny alley, the castle, and much more.
Coming back, I forgot what night, but I think it was that night or the following.. I went out with Steven (the oldest son, my age) and Lucia (a friend and part of the family, a year younger) and Giacomo. Well, we just went for my first gelato (caffe and nocchiola) and after got some drinks at the same bar I first went to last year with the boys (last year I traveled with three boys around Italy). This time at the bar, I didn't feel the excitement because last year I was ordering my first alcoholic drink legally and this year it's completely normal for me. Europe changes you. Anyway, last year I had a strong Long Island Iced Tea and I was close to being drunk. This time, I had an equally as strong drink called Long Red and it did the same, I don't think they noticed but it only lasted for about ten minutes. Don't laugh at me.
Driving through the same parts from last year was amazing. I missed the San Marino hill at night with all the lights glowing on the hooked mountain the very most. I also looked for it once in the car. They blasted Numero Uno (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N4S8bDzS0BM) in the car. Also drove on the prostitute road again and learned a very, very bad word. God Pig (Dio Porco). The other night when we went out for Christian's birthday (not the youngest son in the family, another Christian). We went to the same bar, now my third time at this bar by the beach. Met some really cool people. Three super nice girls and some crazy guys, one guy was drunk enough for us all and when he was trying to speak english it was crazy hilarious. He kept trying to tell me that all girls at discos are bitches (sorry grandma for the language). And when he said "disco" he would do a small dance, probably because he thought I didn't know what a disco was. He kept us entertained. They were all very cool and very nice. They were constantly trying to speak english to me and teaching me Italian. Sorry to Steven for being the translator for most of the night. Which also for Alessandra during the dinners.. with Fabio constantly poking your arm. Still very happy I got a photo of it happening!
Met the dogs in the back. An alfa was present in the two. At the market that Steven took me to one morning, he was looking at dog beds and I was super confused, thinking that he only has two cats. But then I remember the barking in the back of their home after he reminded me of them.
Went to Ravenna for some absolutely gorgeous and colorful mosaics. I also found tons of Space Invaders in Ravenna! Duh, because the space invaders are made of ceramic tiles. Ravenna was a pretty town, very peaceful and filled with culture and art. I went with Alessandra, we took gelato selfies and found two lizards (not her favourite part). Practically made my heart skip a beat when I heard her scream.
Another day, Fabio and Alessandra took me to Siena, Arezzo, Lucignano, and a place with the sword in the rock and with a (I completely forgot the name) church with the ceiling gone and open to the sky. The place with the sword was spent laughing with Alessandra like hyenas, which was even worse because it was meant to be quiet in that place. We were laughing at pictures of Dante and Paco on her phone. We were bad. Siena was the main reason for our long day journey. It will be a day to remember for sure. We saw so many beautiful things. The duomo in Siena was probably my favourite, it was stunning. The colors were the main reason. Last time they went, it was dirty and you couldn't see the pink, but they washed it so now it's all white and light pink. This entire day, we walked over 12 miles I think. We also ran into a wedding in Siena, which is common for Fabio and Alessandra.
Fabio and I like to run. We first went to the same place from last year (over three miles) and then the next time, we ran five miles along the Cesenatico beach (first time running on sand). Loved it.
Gina came over for my last dinner in the house, we had their homemade pizza. Also, stop using the pizza rollers America, use scissors to cut the pizza. It is SO MUCH easier, seriously, try it next time you have pizza. Maybe it wont work though with the thick American pizzas. Gina was so nice to give me some Italian chocolate to take home, even though I haven't even touched the ones I saved for myself from last year.
Before leaving for Palermo, everyone including me were trying really hard to get Alessandra to come to Palermo with me. But unfortunately, all the cheap seat were taken and she had Christian's graduation. So I had to leave the Fabio, Alessandra, Steven, Veronica, Christian, and Dante on the 1st of June. Took a quick night plane to Palermo.
Will post as soon as possible about Palermo today. I have to leave for London at 5am (so 8 hours from now) and I won't be back for a few days. I'll be staying in London and then Paris. One night Canterbury and then off to Barcelona, Spain. So, very busy starting now. I'll have three days to clean and pack for going back to America after Spain is finished. Ciao.
Saturday, May 23, 2015
Santorini, Greece
By far my favourite trip.. nothing else will beat it. It was like a dream, it was unbelievably beautiful. You know how people say, "photos don't do it justice"? Well, look at my photos.. it is even more breath-taking when you are standing on that island. I whined all day when traveling back to Canterbury, England because who would ever want to leave a place like Santorini? There is no doubt, I will be returning some day.
Booking this trip I was researching the different parts of the island and I did pretty dang good. Michaela and I first stayed in Fira for the views and then we stayed in Kamari for the beach after half way through our stay.
Fira Day One
Took Norwegian airlines. We arrived at the Thira International Airport about 11pm and got picked up by our Romantic Spa Resort (laugh it up). When we got out of our taxi, we were greeted by an extremely kind man who worked there. Really, all of the greeks and locals were extremely nice and friendly. We didn't touch our luggage from the airport doors to the hotel room. Kissed on our hands and everything. Walking to our room, I started to shake because I was so happy looking at our view. The lights coming from the hill behind our hotel room door was filled because of all the houses. It was gorgeous. Finding out we had a balcony in the front, looking over the ocean, I was shaking even more. After calming down, we were starving and looked online forever for delivery and found nothing. It was a Saturday night before midnight and we were clueless. Anyway, we decided to pass out after a few hours laying in bed and kept thinking about the day we had planned for tomorrow. We also watched some strange greek television. Oh, and the toilets.. you can't put your used toilet paper in the toliet. You have to throw it in the trash, no paper in the toliet.
Fira Day Two
Fira on the first day was the best thing. Our first day was my favourite day. I woke up right at sunrise and watched it rise over the ocean on our balcony. It was beautiful and then I ran to the back and looked at the hill filed with houses to see it in daylight and I blown away. I couldn't go back to bed so I just laid there researching on my phone the different foods and drinks to try. oh, we also have a pool out front. Once Michaela woke up, we got ready and started walking for town, up a hill. Also, donkeys are really popular there and we had three right next to our hotel. I named one Jack. Anyway, we found a place to rent a ATV (four wheeler) for the next two days. Best decision we made. We were able to see the entire island on that and I got to drive it the entire time. Michaela was too nervous to. It was only 18 euro a day and gas was extremely cheap. We drove up to central Fira and had breakfast at Panorama. I thought I was blown away by the views at our hotel, but eating my breakfast where I was, I was about to cry. It was a dream. Again, photos do not do justice. I had a cappuccino and an omelette filled with onions and peppers.
After breakfast, we walked all the way up to the top of Fira and probably even further until we decided to go back to our ATV and drive it up to Oia (the top of Santorini). I think I got a high when I took that real drive up there. We were driving around the huge hill, probably mountain, and once we got there we walked even more. I bought a euro necklace of the evil eye. It's everywhere, the glass blue and white and black eye. I loved that. I also bought a tiny bottle of Ouzo. We walked past a shop with real octopus hanging from hooks out front. And at a lot of the tourist shops, there are real sponges. Cable cars by the cliff. See, the side we are on now is the cliff side, looking towards the volcano and the other side is the beach side.
After a while, we sat for a drink at cafe Flora where I ordered a real glass of Ouzo. I couldn't understand the waiter very well so he teased me saying, "Did someone have too much Ouzo?". Ouzo is one of there drinks, it tastes like black liquorice and my first glass I wasn't liking it too much but the last glass on the last night, I loved it. It's also fairly cheap. Drove back to our hotel to dip in the pool, upload photos, charge the phones and freshen up. We tried using my underwater phone case and it was difficult to take underwater selfies. Drove back into Oia for dinner and the sunset. I had Neapolitan pasta and got an appetizer plate with olives, grape-leafed rice rolls, cheeses, and more. Walked to the sunset spot which was filled and crowded with tourists. Apparently it's the place to be for sunsets. It felt like forever until it started to set, we sat there for an hour. Drove back in the dark and it was fun as well. Saw a few stray dogs on the way. Sad. This island is filled with abandoned animals. Lots of cats by the beaches. We passed out with exhaustion at 10pm.
Fira Day Three
Slept in a little and drove down South, towards the lighthouse or Akrotiri. And we were starving. Found a place in the middle of nowhere that was highlighting the view. We both got margarita pizza and I got fried cheese, and a cappuccino. Best cappuccino I had. The fried cheese was a giant cheese curd with olive oil. Delicious. Stuffed ourselves and headed more South.
Found Red Beach and parked where everyone was, walked with the crowd on the cliffs (no railings or steps) and found around the corner, a hidden red beach. The cliffs were red and turning the black volcanic sand red. Same a little, made Michaela come in because she was scared. We tried the underwater case again and succeeded better. Oh also, on the second day we found a beach called Paradise beach. It sucked, I couldn't get in because it was freezing and sharp rocks everywhere, it was secluded and no one was there. So Red Beach was awesome. Bought some 50 SPF sun screen and rubbed it on about every three hours because we were burning. Surprisingly, I didn't burn at all for this trip! Except one small, very awkward spot. After the Red Beach, we went more South, all the way to the light house. It was incredible, the view that is. You could turn in a full circle and see all water besides the lighthouse in one spot. That spot and the San Marino Castle in Italy that I visited last summer are the two best incredible views I have ever witnessed. Speechless. Admired that for awhile and took photos.
Went back to our hotel to freshen up again and then back to Fira for dinner. Michaela got her first gyro and while the guy serving her made me a napkin flower because of my "beautiful eyes". I later got some food at a restaurant overlooking the view. I got real Greek yogurt which is really thick, they topped it off with fruits and honey. YUM. Before I got my dinner, we ran into the Kissing Fish Spa. See, I saw this place in Venice, Italy last summer and Michaela saw the exact same one when she went to Venice the other week. So we were curious and tried it. Ten minutes for 10 euros. The fish eat off all of your dead skin cells on your feet. Result: I will never do that to myself ever again. I shrieked for a good two minutes. It did not feel right. I was a child by how freaked out I was, I looked ridiculous now that I think about the scene.
Well, we took the ATV back up North towards Oia for one last joy ride because we had to return it before 8:30pm. I drove fast and turned corners fast because I got really used to that ATV. I loved it. We stopped at this abandoned building that I wanted to take photos with and we stopped to take a quick picture of these funny houses we past a few times. Once we hit Oia, we didn't go into town, I took a turn to go further out and stopped to take photos of cactus. Returned the ATV and walked back to our hotel which is only a five minute walk down a hill. On the walk, I took a photo of this huge dog that always sits on the stone wall at the house and I took a photo of the donkeys outside of our hotel, Jack. Freshened up to go out and get drinks. Walked into town and into a club which was empty. See, this island is for old retired couples or couples in general, also we saw a lot of pregnant women. So we got a Red Bull hookah and a glass of Ouzo. Left for some late night, cheap pasta and then headed back to our hotel. On the way back, Michaela said "My underwear is up my ass crack" loudly while walking past a car with the window down and the guy inside heard her say that. I was walking behind her and she said it without turning around, so it was like she was telling him. I died laughing, and she was hoping he didn't speak English. Which most do so, sorry Michaela.
Kamari Day One
Okay, we left Fira for Kamari today. Got a strange cab ride there and once we arrived, we were treated like royalty. Our hotel (Nostos Hotel) was literally right next to the beach. Walk out from our door, down the steps and you're on the beach walk. Also, hotels are extremely cheap there. I paid only 15 euro a night at this one. When we arrived, we were given seats, orange juice, maps and advice, our key, they carried our luggage up, and etc. So friendly. Our hotel is, as well, a restaurant. Once settled in, we ran for food because we were starving. Sat down at the Dolce Cafe and I ordered the Dolce Special Breakfast. Lots of food. I got a cappuccino, croissant with honey, eggs, beans, bread (shared with Michaela because it was like a whole baguette), cheese, and some meat that I gave to Michaela. After breakfast, we changed into our swimsuits and laid on the beach, and went swimming. I bought goggles (I look silly) and Michaela put them on and freaked out when she saw the fish. Remember how I told you she was afraid of going all the way into the ocean, well, that was it for her. We took some beach chairs and given a menu, I ordered a Banana Dream and she got a Piña Colada. They were really fun drinks, with fruits and decorations on top. Oh guess what! Our beach is right next to the airport so we saw airplanes every hour coming down. My two favourite things: airplanes and the ocean. I got the best underwater selfies this day.
After the beach, we freshened up and walked around and got dinner. She got another gyro, this one was only 1.50 euro. I sat down and got a mediterranean wrap. It had cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese inside. The beach walk is filled with restaurants and oh my, the waiters are vultures. They are throwing a menu in your face practically. When finding a place, it is impossible to look a menu outside with out being attacked by the waiters because they are trying to make you sit down. It's outrageous. Anyway, after our dinners, we bought Coka-Cola and chocolates for our hookah night. Also, I got these cookies that I see everywhere, and they are yummy. The first time, I got strawberry and I thought that was good.... well, I tried orange and it wasn't good, then I tried banana cream and I was in heaven. I will forever miss them. Back to hookah, we got a strawberry one and I wanted to scream the lady serving us. It was so hard getting her to understand what I was saying. Our hookah was having the water coming up the tube and it was disgusting. I tried so hard telling her this, soon she was like "that's normal". No, sorry, it's not. This day I also tried Volkano Beer that is brewed there. There were different kinds, and I tried the blonde. It was really good. Today, we also saw a lady who didn't care at all about being topless.
Kamari Day Two
We were told that Perissa Beach (next door to Kamari) was great and so we decided to take a boat ride there after breakfast. We had breakfast at Irini, I got a gouda cheese omelette and a double Greek coffee. The omelette was delicious and the coffee was okay. Once I finished the coffee, it had a lot of this spongy dark remainder at the bottom. Wish I knew what that was. We were also given bread with olive oil. These restaurants copy Italy, because they serve pasta and pizza, and always have olive oil and vinegar available. Maybe it's Greek too, but it felt like I was in Italy. Our boat ride was 5 euro each way and the guy had a shirt that said "I don't do drugs, I am drugs". They were actually pretty cool and they had a cute dog on board. We got splashed and went around the cliff that separates Perissa and Kamari. The boat ride made me realise how blue and clear the water is, it was eye opening. The water is so blue!
Perissa sucks. It was colder and dead, no one was there. Less to see and explore. At Perissa I tried their Alfa beer and Baklava. Baklava is apparently chocolate and fixed nuts, etc. Well, it looks like a turd and takes a while to know if you like it or not. Well, we did not like it. I found a really, really, really cool triangle, flat rock that is orange with white on one side. After about an hour or two, we wanted to leave. Got on the boat and headed for some Kamari beach chairs.
I got a the Santorini Red wine and went swimming after I laid out for a while. While swimming I discovered something. I found fish, and after I swam a little away, they followed me. So I started to swim more and looked behind me, they kept following me. More and more, and stopped when I stopped. It was really weird, so I got out of the water. Also, this beach was like all sand but when you go out swimming, you're not on sand anymore but you are standing and swimming over a giant rock. After some sun, we went in. Also it was chilly because it was windy all day. Freshened up and went out for dinner. Cats kept swarming around us and I loved it. Did I tell you that Michaela is grossed out by cats, she gags when she sees one. Well there were two cats sitting by our feet for dinner. I got a four cheese pasta and Mythos Beer. Got to try all of their beers, tried the wine and I tried Ouzo. After dinner, we got another hookah, orange. We also went to a bar with live music and it was the best choice for our last night. This guy sang Carolina, some Elvis, Hotel California, and more! We also got a fun drink. I got a Acropolis that had some Ouzo in it and Michaela got a Black Russian that had vodka, Coca-Cola, and Kahlua in it. When given these drinks, they were on fire, like they had sparklers going off on them. It was crazy cool. Later we were given a free shot of a fruity lemon lime taste. Left for the beach at night and just thought about our time in Santorini.
Kamari Day Three
We leave this day. I'm really sad and head to the beach at 8am. I tried waking up for sunrise over the ocean but I was way too tired. Laid in the sun and walked waist deep in the Mediterranean sea for a while before Michaela came out for breakfast. I got Greek yogurt with nuts and honey, and a latte. We had our breakfast on the beach chairs. Packed up and left for the airport. The guy at the hotel drove us. He was super nice, gave us gum and facts. He told us that the wine and every thing they grow here is never watered. The volcano gives the ground the ability to never be watered. He also told us that there are exactly 365 churches on Santorini, one for every day. Apparently anyone can build one if they want to. We then got to the smallest airport I have ever been in and got on our Easy Jet after hours. Our plane was late because every one had to put their carry ons in the metal bucket that confirms that their bag is the correct size for the over head compartment. A lot of people were mad because they had to check in their carry on for 55 euro because it didn't fit. One guy was so mad he and his girlfriend stopped the line to make room, the lady doing her job was telling them no and to check it in. Once they did it again, it fit really snug and she was trying to say no but the guy was really rude. He said, "Thanks for nothing" and left, but came back after a minute to say, "Santorini is wonderful but you, no. You are the criminal of Santorini!". It was a bad scene.
Also, Mama Mia.
Booking this trip I was researching the different parts of the island and I did pretty dang good. Michaela and I first stayed in Fira for the views and then we stayed in Kamari for the beach after half way through our stay.
Fira Day One
Took Norwegian airlines. We arrived at the Thira International Airport about 11pm and got picked up by our Romantic Spa Resort (laugh it up). When we got out of our taxi, we were greeted by an extremely kind man who worked there. Really, all of the greeks and locals were extremely nice and friendly. We didn't touch our luggage from the airport doors to the hotel room. Kissed on our hands and everything. Walking to our room, I started to shake because I was so happy looking at our view. The lights coming from the hill behind our hotel room door was filled because of all the houses. It was gorgeous. Finding out we had a balcony in the front, looking over the ocean, I was shaking even more. After calming down, we were starving and looked online forever for delivery and found nothing. It was a Saturday night before midnight and we were clueless. Anyway, we decided to pass out after a few hours laying in bed and kept thinking about the day we had planned for tomorrow. We also watched some strange greek television. Oh, and the toilets.. you can't put your used toilet paper in the toliet. You have to throw it in the trash, no paper in the toliet.
Fira Day Two
Fira on the first day was the best thing. Our first day was my favourite day. I woke up right at sunrise and watched it rise over the ocean on our balcony. It was beautiful and then I ran to the back and looked at the hill filed with houses to see it in daylight and I blown away. I couldn't go back to bed so I just laid there researching on my phone the different foods and drinks to try. oh, we also have a pool out front. Once Michaela woke up, we got ready and started walking for town, up a hill. Also, donkeys are really popular there and we had three right next to our hotel. I named one Jack. Anyway, we found a place to rent a ATV (four wheeler) for the next two days. Best decision we made. We were able to see the entire island on that and I got to drive it the entire time. Michaela was too nervous to. It was only 18 euro a day and gas was extremely cheap. We drove up to central Fira and had breakfast at Panorama. I thought I was blown away by the views at our hotel, but eating my breakfast where I was, I was about to cry. It was a dream. Again, photos do not do justice. I had a cappuccino and an omelette filled with onions and peppers.
After breakfast, we walked all the way up to the top of Fira and probably even further until we decided to go back to our ATV and drive it up to Oia (the top of Santorini). I think I got a high when I took that real drive up there. We were driving around the huge hill, probably mountain, and once we got there we walked even more. I bought a euro necklace of the evil eye. It's everywhere, the glass blue and white and black eye. I loved that. I also bought a tiny bottle of Ouzo. We walked past a shop with real octopus hanging from hooks out front. And at a lot of the tourist shops, there are real sponges. Cable cars by the cliff. See, the side we are on now is the cliff side, looking towards the volcano and the other side is the beach side.
After a while, we sat for a drink at cafe Flora where I ordered a real glass of Ouzo. I couldn't understand the waiter very well so he teased me saying, "Did someone have too much Ouzo?". Ouzo is one of there drinks, it tastes like black liquorice and my first glass I wasn't liking it too much but the last glass on the last night, I loved it. It's also fairly cheap. Drove back to our hotel to dip in the pool, upload photos, charge the phones and freshen up. We tried using my underwater phone case and it was difficult to take underwater selfies. Drove back into Oia for dinner and the sunset. I had Neapolitan pasta and got an appetizer plate with olives, grape-leafed rice rolls, cheeses, and more. Walked to the sunset spot which was filled and crowded with tourists. Apparently it's the place to be for sunsets. It felt like forever until it started to set, we sat there for an hour. Drove back in the dark and it was fun as well. Saw a few stray dogs on the way. Sad. This island is filled with abandoned animals. Lots of cats by the beaches. We passed out with exhaustion at 10pm.
Fira Day Three
Slept in a little and drove down South, towards the lighthouse or Akrotiri. And we were starving. Found a place in the middle of nowhere that was highlighting the view. We both got margarita pizza and I got fried cheese, and a cappuccino. Best cappuccino I had. The fried cheese was a giant cheese curd with olive oil. Delicious. Stuffed ourselves and headed more South.
Found Red Beach and parked where everyone was, walked with the crowd on the cliffs (no railings or steps) and found around the corner, a hidden red beach. The cliffs were red and turning the black volcanic sand red. Same a little, made Michaela come in because she was scared. We tried the underwater case again and succeeded better. Oh also, on the second day we found a beach called Paradise beach. It sucked, I couldn't get in because it was freezing and sharp rocks everywhere, it was secluded and no one was there. So Red Beach was awesome. Bought some 50 SPF sun screen and rubbed it on about every three hours because we were burning. Surprisingly, I didn't burn at all for this trip! Except one small, very awkward spot. After the Red Beach, we went more South, all the way to the light house. It was incredible, the view that is. You could turn in a full circle and see all water besides the lighthouse in one spot. That spot and the San Marino Castle in Italy that I visited last summer are the two best incredible views I have ever witnessed. Speechless. Admired that for awhile and took photos.
Went back to our hotel to freshen up again and then back to Fira for dinner. Michaela got her first gyro and while the guy serving her made me a napkin flower because of my "beautiful eyes". I later got some food at a restaurant overlooking the view. I got real Greek yogurt which is really thick, they topped it off with fruits and honey. YUM. Before I got my dinner, we ran into the Kissing Fish Spa. See, I saw this place in Venice, Italy last summer and Michaela saw the exact same one when she went to Venice the other week. So we were curious and tried it. Ten minutes for 10 euros. The fish eat off all of your dead skin cells on your feet. Result: I will never do that to myself ever again. I shrieked for a good two minutes. It did not feel right. I was a child by how freaked out I was, I looked ridiculous now that I think about the scene.
Well, we took the ATV back up North towards Oia for one last joy ride because we had to return it before 8:30pm. I drove fast and turned corners fast because I got really used to that ATV. I loved it. We stopped at this abandoned building that I wanted to take photos with and we stopped to take a quick picture of these funny houses we past a few times. Once we hit Oia, we didn't go into town, I took a turn to go further out and stopped to take photos of cactus. Returned the ATV and walked back to our hotel which is only a five minute walk down a hill. On the walk, I took a photo of this huge dog that always sits on the stone wall at the house and I took a photo of the donkeys outside of our hotel, Jack. Freshened up to go out and get drinks. Walked into town and into a club which was empty. See, this island is for old retired couples or couples in general, also we saw a lot of pregnant women. So we got a Red Bull hookah and a glass of Ouzo. Left for some late night, cheap pasta and then headed back to our hotel. On the way back, Michaela said "My underwear is up my ass crack" loudly while walking past a car with the window down and the guy inside heard her say that. I was walking behind her and she said it without turning around, so it was like she was telling him. I died laughing, and she was hoping he didn't speak English. Which most do so, sorry Michaela.
Kamari Day One
Okay, we left Fira for Kamari today. Got a strange cab ride there and once we arrived, we were treated like royalty. Our hotel (Nostos Hotel) was literally right next to the beach. Walk out from our door, down the steps and you're on the beach walk. Also, hotels are extremely cheap there. I paid only 15 euro a night at this one. When we arrived, we were given seats, orange juice, maps and advice, our key, they carried our luggage up, and etc. So friendly. Our hotel is, as well, a restaurant. Once settled in, we ran for food because we were starving. Sat down at the Dolce Cafe and I ordered the Dolce Special Breakfast. Lots of food. I got a cappuccino, croissant with honey, eggs, beans, bread (shared with Michaela because it was like a whole baguette), cheese, and some meat that I gave to Michaela. After breakfast, we changed into our swimsuits and laid on the beach, and went swimming. I bought goggles (I look silly) and Michaela put them on and freaked out when she saw the fish. Remember how I told you she was afraid of going all the way into the ocean, well, that was it for her. We took some beach chairs and given a menu, I ordered a Banana Dream and she got a Piña Colada. They were really fun drinks, with fruits and decorations on top. Oh guess what! Our beach is right next to the airport so we saw airplanes every hour coming down. My two favourite things: airplanes and the ocean. I got the best underwater selfies this day.
After the beach, we freshened up and walked around and got dinner. She got another gyro, this one was only 1.50 euro. I sat down and got a mediterranean wrap. It had cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese inside. The beach walk is filled with restaurants and oh my, the waiters are vultures. They are throwing a menu in your face practically. When finding a place, it is impossible to look a menu outside with out being attacked by the waiters because they are trying to make you sit down. It's outrageous. Anyway, after our dinners, we bought Coka-Cola and chocolates for our hookah night. Also, I got these cookies that I see everywhere, and they are yummy. The first time, I got strawberry and I thought that was good.... well, I tried orange and it wasn't good, then I tried banana cream and I was in heaven. I will forever miss them. Back to hookah, we got a strawberry one and I wanted to scream the lady serving us. It was so hard getting her to understand what I was saying. Our hookah was having the water coming up the tube and it was disgusting. I tried so hard telling her this, soon she was like "that's normal". No, sorry, it's not. This day I also tried Volkano Beer that is brewed there. There were different kinds, and I tried the blonde. It was really good. Today, we also saw a lady who didn't care at all about being topless.
Kamari Day Two
We were told that Perissa Beach (next door to Kamari) was great and so we decided to take a boat ride there after breakfast. We had breakfast at Irini, I got a gouda cheese omelette and a double Greek coffee. The omelette was delicious and the coffee was okay. Once I finished the coffee, it had a lot of this spongy dark remainder at the bottom. Wish I knew what that was. We were also given bread with olive oil. These restaurants copy Italy, because they serve pasta and pizza, and always have olive oil and vinegar available. Maybe it's Greek too, but it felt like I was in Italy. Our boat ride was 5 euro each way and the guy had a shirt that said "I don't do drugs, I am drugs". They were actually pretty cool and they had a cute dog on board. We got splashed and went around the cliff that separates Perissa and Kamari. The boat ride made me realise how blue and clear the water is, it was eye opening. The water is so blue!
Perissa sucks. It was colder and dead, no one was there. Less to see and explore. At Perissa I tried their Alfa beer and Baklava. Baklava is apparently chocolate and fixed nuts, etc. Well, it looks like a turd and takes a while to know if you like it or not. Well, we did not like it. I found a really, really, really cool triangle, flat rock that is orange with white on one side. After about an hour or two, we wanted to leave. Got on the boat and headed for some Kamari beach chairs.
I got a the Santorini Red wine and went swimming after I laid out for a while. While swimming I discovered something. I found fish, and after I swam a little away, they followed me. So I started to swim more and looked behind me, they kept following me. More and more, and stopped when I stopped. It was really weird, so I got out of the water. Also, this beach was like all sand but when you go out swimming, you're not on sand anymore but you are standing and swimming over a giant rock. After some sun, we went in. Also it was chilly because it was windy all day. Freshened up and went out for dinner. Cats kept swarming around us and I loved it. Did I tell you that Michaela is grossed out by cats, she gags when she sees one. Well there were two cats sitting by our feet for dinner. I got a four cheese pasta and Mythos Beer. Got to try all of their beers, tried the wine and I tried Ouzo. After dinner, we got another hookah, orange. We also went to a bar with live music and it was the best choice for our last night. This guy sang Carolina, some Elvis, Hotel California, and more! We also got a fun drink. I got a Acropolis that had some Ouzo in it and Michaela got a Black Russian that had vodka, Coca-Cola, and Kahlua in it. When given these drinks, they were on fire, like they had sparklers going off on them. It was crazy cool. Later we were given a free shot of a fruity lemon lime taste. Left for the beach at night and just thought about our time in Santorini.
Kamari Day Three
We leave this day. I'm really sad and head to the beach at 8am. I tried waking up for sunrise over the ocean but I was way too tired. Laid in the sun and walked waist deep in the Mediterranean sea for a while before Michaela came out for breakfast. I got Greek yogurt with nuts and honey, and a latte. We had our breakfast on the beach chairs. Packed up and left for the airport. The guy at the hotel drove us. He was super nice, gave us gum and facts. He told us that the wine and every thing they grow here is never watered. The volcano gives the ground the ability to never be watered. He also told us that there are exactly 365 churches on Santorini, one for every day. Apparently anyone can build one if they want to. We then got to the smallest airport I have ever been in and got on our Easy Jet after hours. Our plane was late because every one had to put their carry ons in the metal bucket that confirms that their bag is the correct size for the over head compartment. A lot of people were mad because they had to check in their carry on for 55 euro because it didn't fit. One guy was so mad he and his girlfriend stopped the line to make room, the lady doing her job was telling them no and to check it in. Once they did it again, it fit really snug and she was trying to say no but the guy was really rude. He said, "Thanks for nothing" and left, but came back after a minute to say, "Santorini is wonderful but you, no. You are the criminal of Santorini!". It was a bad scene.
Also, Mama Mia.
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