Greece and Italy
Ciao!!! I am settling back in to my reality after two weeks of paradise in Greece and Italy celebrating my daughter's college graduation. To sum it up in one word "amazing." My maternal family roots hail from little villages surrounding Sicily and Sorrento, so this was a wonderful experience for my family. After flying in to Rome we took a nine-day cruise, with our first stop being the village of Taormina, Italy. This village was one of my favorites. We enjoyed fresh caprese in a seaside café where we observed an Italian wedding procession along the cobblestone streets. This was a true treasured memory, and the best coffee and cannoli on the planet.
Our next stop was Santorini, Greece. We traveled the countryside to get to Oia. With the iconic white-washed buildings and blue domes, this is truly the place to snap all the pics. Next up was Rhodes. This island was a little more remote, but has a beautiful castle and marketplace where donkeys are the preferred method of transportation.
The market place - Rhodes, Greece
Now comes my second favorite, the breathtaking Isle of Capri, the little fishing village with the bold blooming bougainvillea and lemony scent down every cobblestone pathway.
Mykonos, Greece with its salty air, stunning alleys filled with pillows and homey places to sit, this island is definitely a beautiful return destination.
Mykonos, Greece
Our next port stop was Athens, Greece where we took a short cab ride over to visit the Parthenon. This is a must-do, but there is a climb, the lines are long and it was hot. Plan in advance and be prepared with sunscreen and plenty of water.
Our cruise returned to Rome where we spent several more days exploring this cultural rich city, visiting the Trevi Fountain and the Colosseum, and a day trip via train ride to Florence to take in the beauty of the Duomo. During this time we called the Corso 281 "home," and when I say "home," I truly mean the staff treated us as family. They would have our coffee delivered to the room every morning, assist with questions, directions or transportation. Get My Guide was recommended to us for any excursions. GMG arranged a day trip (high-speed train and boat) to three of the five villages that make up the storybook Cinque Terra, including an early morning visit to a winery. With its rainbow colored cliff-side houses and friendly people, I would most definitely add this to your list.
Duomo (Florence, Italy)
Gelato at every stop, of course :)
One of the many outdoor cafes that we frequented.
Just writing this post brings tears of joy! With its friendly people, old-world charm (and the best coffee ever) we have already started planning our return visit. If you are considering this trip, I would be happy to answer any questions. Arrivederci for now!!!
