Everyone went out for the last time that night. We all met at the plaza mayor in front of the clock like always. Some people were planning to stay out all night and go out with a bang. I was not in the mood to feel like crap traveling all day tomorrow, so I was not planning on getting slaushed. The los tres pilares was picking everyone up at their houses tomorrow morning. We has one of the first pickups at 5:40 in the morning. Mary and Karen who lived right down the street from us also had the same pickup time. Mary and I decided we wanted to get at least a two hour nap before the bus came in the morning.
Everyone decided we would go to the same bar we all went to on the first night. Atawalupa, or however you spell it. All I know is it has 3.50 euro for cervesa and 6.80 euro for copas(mixed drinks) all you can drink of course. Mary and I danced it out on the one last time, making sure we broke it down hardcore to all the outdated pop music. We left around two. Walking back up to the plaza mayor I spotted a Telepizza that was still opened. Telepizza has really cheap pizza, one euro for a slice. Not the best pizza ever, but I had been wanting to try it all semester. What better time than the last night I was in Spain! After our slice of Telepizza Mary and I walked back to our apartments. I shoved my bar clothes in my over stuffed suitcase and took my two-hour nap. The alarm went off at 4:30. I jumped in the shower, got dressed and moved all my luggage by the front door. Madre and Isabel woke up early to help us get everything down to the bus on time. It was quite a process moving everything. Madre could not believe how much stuff we had. She had mentioned in the past that out of all the ninas she has had, we bought the most clothes. Not a total shocker for me, after all I am an admitted shoppingaholic.
I think I made about 5 trips up and down the elevator to the fifth floor because Madre was worried that we would get stuck in the elevator if we put too much luggage in. Once all our stuff was down in the lobby we thanked Madre for everything and headed to the corner with all our stuff to meet the bus. Sarah started crying as we said goodbye to Madre. For some reason I could not muster up any tears. I think I was just ready to be home. I hope this did not make me look like an unemotional and cold-hearted but the tears would just not come.
We met Mary and Karen along with her padres at the corner where the bus was picking up. They were in tears now too as they said goodbyes to their padres. I really felt heartless still not being able to even force one measly tear out. The bus came right on schedule at 5:40. Jesus was on the bus to help everyone load their stuff. As we loaded our luggage underneath the bus, the handle on my carryon suitcase got stuck. The handle refused to go down, so for the rest of trip home the handle would remain sticking up. Luckily I managed to get it all the way home with no complaints. The bus drove through the quite streets of Salamanca, picking everyone up along the way. Everyone was really emotional and tears were streaming everywhere. Now I felt completely soulless. I almost felt guilty that I was the only one who was not crying, except for the boys.
After everyone was on the bus we left our beautiful city and headed for Madrid. I turned around for one last glimpse of the city, but sadly the cathedral lights had not been turned on yet so I could not see the baroque bell tower. I just might have shed a tear if I had seen the cathedral one last time.
We arrived at the airport with plenty of time to get checked in. The flight attendant did not seem to mind that my luggage was well over the allowed limit. I had a combined weight of 50 kilos for my checked luggage, which is roughly 120 pounds. I believe you were only suppose to have around 40 kilos, but no pasa nada.
Once we were through security we all sat around at our gate and stared everyone who was wearing facemasks. The swine flu was in full swing so paranoid Spaniards were covering up with makes. I felt like a leper with out a facemask.
The plane was long and boring, and extremely long. I watched three movies and still had time left over, so I took a few laps around the plane. Finally we landed in Philadelphia, where I had a four-hour layover. The next plane took me to Baltimore where my parents greeted me with balloons and bubbles. Yes, my dad was blowing bubbles at me while I walked off the escalator down to baggage claim. I guess that’s what I get for asking for a parade! I was so exhausted that I was just happy to see them. We got all of my luggage and walked to the car. I was not really hungry, so I did not have an exciting meal planned for my return. Instead I ate a couple bowls of cereal. Not very exciting but god I missed cereal!
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Final Reception
Our last planed group activity was the final reception following our finals on Thursday. I had two finals on Thursday, Cine and then Fonetica. The Cine final was a joke, just four short essays comparing our readings to the movies we watched in class. The Fonetica final was easy as well. I still don’t quite get where you put all those stupid accents, but sprinkled a few accents throughout the dialogues. There was an oral part as well, where I had to read a dialogue to the professor. Overall she told me my pronunciation had improved greatly, but I said “tus vocales son muy largos (porque mi premir lengua es ingles), necesita hacerlos mas corto.
After my finals I did a little last minute tourist shopping in the tiendas by the Universidad. Then I met Jesus and the group to walk over the reception. The reception was held in a courtyard by the famous university of Salamanca building with the hidden frog. It was pretty chilly outside, so I pretty much froze my butt off the whole time. All of our professors came to the reception to bid their farewells. There was also an array of Spanish food and an open bar in the courtyard. The food was okay, nothing special just typical Spanish appetizers like tortilla, croquetas, quesos, gambas, vegetales fritos, pollo, pan, frutas and of course no display of Spanish food can be complete with out jamon. The best part was by far the open bar. I could tell quite a few other people were enjoying the drinks. Allison Sachs, who hardly drinks, had four glasses of wine and started hugging everyone in our group. Everyone took pictures with their professors and we took our last group picture as JMU Spring 2009 Salamanca.
I got a little teary-eyed walking toward Calle Toro with Jeanie. It was sad to leave such a beautiful place and all the crazy times we had shared throughout the semester. At the time though I was ready to go, most of my stuff had been packed and I was ready to see my family and be back in the U.S. I went in my favorite stores with Jeanie and Victoria, buying a few more things. I went to the office for the last time and worked out at sweaty gym for the last time.
After my finals I did a little last minute tourist shopping in the tiendas by the Universidad. Then I met Jesus and the group to walk over the reception. The reception was held in a courtyard by the famous university of Salamanca building with the hidden frog. It was pretty chilly outside, so I pretty much froze my butt off the whole time. All of our professors came to the reception to bid their farewells. There was also an array of Spanish food and an open bar in the courtyard. The food was okay, nothing special just typical Spanish appetizers like tortilla, croquetas, quesos, gambas, vegetales fritos, pollo, pan, frutas and of course no display of Spanish food can be complete with out jamon. The best part was by far the open bar. I could tell quite a few other people were enjoying the drinks. Allison Sachs, who hardly drinks, had four glasses of wine and started hugging everyone in our group. Everyone took pictures with their professors and we took our last group picture as JMU Spring 2009 Salamanca.
I got a little teary-eyed walking toward Calle Toro with Jeanie. It was sad to leave such a beautiful place and all the crazy times we had shared throughout the semester. At the time though I was ready to go, most of my stuff had been packed and I was ready to see my family and be back in the U.S. I went in my favorite stores with Jeanie and Victoria, buying a few more things. I went to the office for the last time and worked out at sweaty gym for the last time.
Beer Pong in Spain
The last weekend was intended to prepare for exams. However, the idea of studying I am convinced does not really exist in Spain. I did have to write a paper for my cuento class, but I think I might have only spent about two hours on the six page paper, and did not proof it so I hope it was good enough. The rest of time I spent enjoying my last couple days in the Manc. I went a little souvenir crazy and ended up buying eight scarves, three pairs of earrings, a ring, a necklace, four dresses, a t-shirt, and a fan. I am sure I missed something, but I wanted to bring back as much of Salamanca as I could. I also went out on Friday and Saturday night, which is kind of big time for me. I went out again on Monday and Tuesday night too. My exams were a breeze. I think I might have put in two hours studying for all four of my finals. Not quite the same intensity as finals week at JMU.
On Tuesday night I went out to the Irish Rover for the last night. Every Tuesday night they have a beer pong tournament, so Jeanie and I signed up. Our first round we played two American girls who were Washington and Lee students on a study abroad trip traveling through Spain. The girls also happened to be swimmers too. It was such a random coincidence. Jeanie and I beat them in the first round and advanced to the second round. The second round came down to the wire. Both sides were left with one cup left. Somehow every time our Spanish opponents managed to sink the last cup I came through, getting their last cup too. It went on like this for a couple of rounds. We drew quite a crowd until my luck finally ran out and I was not able to come back with a cup. Jeanie was so thrilled that see used her Asian powers and got me a beer pong t-shirt, which is reserved for the winners of the tournament. We danced for a while, and I got a bunch of free drinks. Irish closed around 3 and I could tell I was beginning to fight off tiredness, so I walked back home. I was so impressed with by beer pong skills. I thought for sure I was going to be total embarrassment, but I came through in clutch.
On Tuesday night I went out to the Irish Rover for the last night. Every Tuesday night they have a beer pong tournament, so Jeanie and I signed up. Our first round we played two American girls who were Washington and Lee students on a study abroad trip traveling through Spain. The girls also happened to be swimmers too. It was such a random coincidence. Jeanie and I beat them in the first round and advanced to the second round. The second round came down to the wire. Both sides were left with one cup left. Somehow every time our Spanish opponents managed to sink the last cup I came through, getting their last cup too. It went on like this for a couple of rounds. We drew quite a crowd until my luck finally ran out and I was not able to come back with a cup. Jeanie was so thrilled that see used her Asian powers and got me a beer pong t-shirt, which is reserved for the winners of the tournament. We danced for a while, and I got a bunch of free drinks. Irish closed around 3 and I could tell I was beginning to fight off tiredness, so I walked back home. I was so impressed with by beer pong skills. I thought for sure I was going to be total embarrassment, but I came through in clutch.
Valverde
As Spain does not have enough holidays where everything is closed for celebration, there just happened to be another holiday on Thursday. I can’t tell you the name of this holiday, but the university was closed so no classes. Jesus referred to it as Valverde, so that is what we called our day at the ranch. Our group was scheduled to go horseback riding at a ranch. All the Madres were coming too bringing food, so we could have dinner at the ranch. All the Madres and hijos took the bus, a larger Los Tres Pillares, which left from the Plaza G. G. at four in the afternoon headed for the ranch. It took about half an hour to get to the ranch. We were divided into two groups because there were more people than horses. I was in the second group, so I waited while the first group got situated on their horses and went out for their trail ride. It was obvious some people were not comfortable on horses. I on the other hand am a huge fan of horses. I just think they are so elegant and beautiful. I waited patiently for an hour and a half for the other group to return, so we could have our turn. Finally, I could here the sound of clopping huffs coming into the stable area. It was mine turn with the caballos!!
I was put on the horse that Danny had. Which was fine, but I asked the guy for a caballo animado. I never got a chance to ask the name of my horse. My horse was anything but animado. I kept kicking him, but there was no budge. He just stayed at the same pace slowly plotting his way along the trail avoiding the stone path and walking only on the grassy sides. I think the horse forgot that I was on his back sometimes because he would always walk on the side of trail by the trees. I would have duck from all the branches to avoid being whacked in the face. Along the trail ride we saw several farm animals. There were thousands of pigs. Big surprise there, Spain loves their jamon. We also saw cattle, goats and other horses.
As soon as we started heading back to the stable, my horse started picking up pace. This was shocking because the whole ride I had been kicking him to go faster and now I could not get him to slow down. He was almost in a full trot by the end of the ride. I guess he was just ready to be done giving rides for the day.
The Madres had dinner all set up for us when we returned. The other group was hungrily awaiting our arrival, so when we all got in we entered the restaurant and the feast began. The amount of food was incredible. There were Spanish tortillas galore, hornazo, pasta salads, empanadas, mini bocadillas, all different kinds of rice, cheeses, and of course several massive plates of jamon and sausage. Needless to say but nobody touched these plates jamon. I was stuffed after the dinner, but it was far from over. Jesus came out with tray after tray of chocolates and pastries. My favorite where these little frozen chocolate coated balls filled with ice cream. Jesus called caca de caballo, which is horse poop. They did in fact resemble poop, but they tasted infinity better.
After dinner everyone got back on the bus. We had a real treat on the bus ride back. All the Madres serenaded us with traditional Salamantino songs. We decided we should return the performance, so we sang Ain’t no Mountain High Enough. The Madres told us we needed to sing in Spanish. Unfortunately, we did not know any Spanish traditional songs except for the pop ones that played in the bars. We started singing Tenia Tanta, but only made it through the refrain before the Madres started belting out another song.
When the bus got back to Salamanca, Escoli, Alex and Colleen’s Madre offered to take Sarah and I out for drink. I was so stuffed I did not know how I was going to fit anything else in my stomach. The whole time we were out Escoli kept looking at me and saying habla, habla, habla. After the drinks we all headed back to our houses for the night.
I was put on the horse that Danny had. Which was fine, but I asked the guy for a caballo animado. I never got a chance to ask the name of my horse. My horse was anything but animado. I kept kicking him, but there was no budge. He just stayed at the same pace slowly plotting his way along the trail avoiding the stone path and walking only on the grassy sides. I think the horse forgot that I was on his back sometimes because he would always walk on the side of trail by the trees. I would have duck from all the branches to avoid being whacked in the face. Along the trail ride we saw several farm animals. There were thousands of pigs. Big surprise there, Spain loves their jamon. We also saw cattle, goats and other horses.
As soon as we started heading back to the stable, my horse started picking up pace. This was shocking because the whole ride I had been kicking him to go faster and now I could not get him to slow down. He was almost in a full trot by the end of the ride. I guess he was just ready to be done giving rides for the day.
The Madres had dinner all set up for us when we returned. The other group was hungrily awaiting our arrival, so when we all got in we entered the restaurant and the feast began. The amount of food was incredible. There were Spanish tortillas galore, hornazo, pasta salads, empanadas, mini bocadillas, all different kinds of rice, cheeses, and of course several massive plates of jamon and sausage. Needless to say but nobody touched these plates jamon. I was stuffed after the dinner, but it was far from over. Jesus came out with tray after tray of chocolates and pastries. My favorite where these little frozen chocolate coated balls filled with ice cream. Jesus called caca de caballo, which is horse poop. They did in fact resemble poop, but they tasted infinity better.
After dinner everyone got back on the bus. We had a real treat on the bus ride back. All the Madres serenaded us with traditional Salamantino songs. We decided we should return the performance, so we sang Ain’t no Mountain High Enough. The Madres told us we needed to sing in Spanish. Unfortunately, we did not know any Spanish traditional songs except for the pop ones that played in the bars. We started singing Tenia Tanta, but only made it through the refrain before the Madres started belting out another song.
When the bus got back to Salamanca, Escoli, Alex and Colleen’s Madre offered to take Sarah and I out for drink. I was so stuffed I did not know how I was going to fit anything else in my stomach. The whole time we were out Escoli kept looking at me and saying habla, habla, habla. After the drinks we all headed back to our houses for the night.
Lunes de Aguas
The following day was Monday. Most people start the week on Monday. However, in Salamanca there just happened to a holiday, called Lunes de Aguas, so everything was closed for the celebration. Lunes de Aguas, has quite an interesting history. Way back when in the 16th century King Felipe II disgusted by the amount of prostitutes in Salamanca issued a degree ordering all the prostitutes to leave the city during lent. The prostitutes could return the Monday after Easter. As history goes the prostitutes returned and were welcomed back into the city with open arms. University students would wait by the banks of the Rio Tormes equipped with festive boats, food and plenty of spirits to bring their favorite companions back into the city. Today university students continue this tradition. However, prostitutes don’t actually cross the river and come back into the city. The tradition of eating a Salamanca specialty, Hornazo, still continues though. The best way I can describe Hornazo is by comparing it to a meat pie. Basically it is a pastry stuffed with ham, sausages. I am not a huge fan of the Hornazo, but I did have a bit to celebrate the tradition.
The JMU crowd made their way down to the river on Monday afternoon to relax by the Rio Tormes for the day and celebrate Lunes de Aguas. We had a slight break down of communication about when we suppose to go the river. Madre told us in the afternoon. She made us what we though was a lunch and it seemed like she was sending us on our way, but as we were preparing to leave she said “No, no, no necesitan comer la comida.” Madre had made us a siesta lunch in addition to our packed lunch. Victoria who I ran into on the street was waiting in my room so we could head down to the river together. I quickly wolfed down my lunch, secretly bring half to Victoria, and then we headed down for the river. Madre had packed us her typical carb bocadilla, which is Spanish tortilla on a huge baguette. In addition she gave Hornazo and fruit.
Victoria and I walked down to the River, where we met the rest of the crowd on the Puente Romano. We all walked down to the banks and joined the celebrating students. The banks were crowded with people playing games, strumming guitars, eating hornazo, drinking beer and wine and just having a relaxing day enjoying the sun. There were several random dogs running through the crowds and several times I caught the scent of pot wafting through the air. Kelsey’s parents were still in town so they joined in with the festivities. We all sat around and played catch phrase and ate hornazo. Kelsey’s dad was hilarious and I could tell he was fully enjoying the Salamancan Holiday. We stayed down by the river until 7:30 or so. I walked backed into town with Victoria, Mary and the other Allison. We stopped at the Plaza and ate our bocadillas before heading back to our houses. When we got back to the house Madre asked Sarah and I if we wanted any dinner. Still stuffed from the hornazo, bocadillas and wine we said, “No Gracias estamos llenas de todo la comida y el vino”. Madre did not understand how we could be full, but told us if we changed our minds she would cook something for us.
It was starting to set in that we had less than two weeks left in this exquisite city. The group was divided between people who were ready to leave and those that wanted to stay forever. At the time I was in the camp that wanted to go home. In fact I was ready to leave after I returned from Italy. Looking back now I know where all those feelings came from, the internet had been horrible the past month and was fed up with feeling isolated. I was also sick of Spanish food. After experiencing the Italy cuisine, Spanish food just sucked (for lack of better words). I did not know this then but as soon as I was back in the states I would be longing to go back to my beloved Salamanca.
The JMU crowd made their way down to the river on Monday afternoon to relax by the Rio Tormes for the day and celebrate Lunes de Aguas. We had a slight break down of communication about when we suppose to go the river. Madre told us in the afternoon. She made us what we though was a lunch and it seemed like she was sending us on our way, but as we were preparing to leave she said “No, no, no necesitan comer la comida.” Madre had made us a siesta lunch in addition to our packed lunch. Victoria who I ran into on the street was waiting in my room so we could head down to the river together. I quickly wolfed down my lunch, secretly bring half to Victoria, and then we headed down for the river. Madre had packed us her typical carb bocadilla, which is Spanish tortilla on a huge baguette. In addition she gave Hornazo and fruit.
Victoria and I walked down to the River, where we met the rest of the crowd on the Puente Romano. We all walked down to the banks and joined the celebrating students. The banks were crowded with people playing games, strumming guitars, eating hornazo, drinking beer and wine and just having a relaxing day enjoying the sun. There were several random dogs running through the crowds and several times I caught the scent of pot wafting through the air. Kelsey’s parents were still in town so they joined in with the festivities. We all sat around and played catch phrase and ate hornazo. Kelsey’s dad was hilarious and I could tell he was fully enjoying the Salamancan Holiday. We stayed down by the river until 7:30 or so. I walked backed into town with Victoria, Mary and the other Allison. We stopped at the Plaza and ate our bocadillas before heading back to our houses. When we got back to the house Madre asked Sarah and I if we wanted any dinner. Still stuffed from the hornazo, bocadillas and wine we said, “No Gracias estamos llenas de todo la comida y el vino”. Madre did not understand how we could be full, but told us if we changed our minds she would cook something for us.
It was starting to set in that we had less than two weeks left in this exquisite city. The group was divided between people who were ready to leave and those that wanted to stay forever. At the time I was in the camp that wanted to go home. In fact I was ready to leave after I returned from Italy. Looking back now I know where all those feelings came from, the internet had been horrible the past month and was fed up with feeling isolated. I was also sick of Spanish food. After experiencing the Italy cuisine, Spanish food just sucked (for lack of better words). I did not know this then but as soon as I was back in the states I would be longing to go back to my beloved Salamanca.
La ultima dia de la ultima escursion boohoo!
I started the last day the last excursion ever with a delicious breakfast in the hotel. Our first stop was at the Palacio de Magdalena. The Palacio was built of course for the royal family, who actually still vacation in the palace. This palace was situated on a hill that overlooked the Santander bay. In the distance was a island with a lighthouse and across the bay there were luscious green mountains and sandy beaches. The water was incredibly blue and made the perfect backdrop for our last group, excursion picture. Jesus gave us out last lesson on Spanish history in front of the palace. I got a little teary eyed listening to Jesus teach us for the last time. He thanked us for being such a great group and told us that his goal was to make us all a little more open minded to the world around us. I know I definitely feel like my worldview has changed and has opened me up to all the incredible things I want to explore.
We followed Jesus for one of last times to a penguin exhibit by the sea. We took some time to watch the penguins and sea lions frolic by the coast. Jesus gave us some free time walk around the city before meeting back at the bus to head back to the Manc. I walked down on the beach with Hannah, Andrea, Karen and Mary and then we ate our packed lunches gazing out at the sea. We made our way to the bus stopping to get ice cream before getting back on Los Tres Pillares. It was such a bittersweet feeling, knowing that this was out last excursion. There was definitely a sad atmosphere on the bus as we drove away from beautiful Santander. We got back in the Manc around 8. I went for a run in my favorite park and then Madre made dinner for us.
We followed Jesus for one of last times to a penguin exhibit by the sea. We took some time to watch the penguins and sea lions frolic by the coast. Jesus gave us some free time walk around the city before meeting back at the bus to head back to the Manc. I walked down on the beach with Hannah, Andrea, Karen and Mary and then we ate our packed lunches gazing out at the sea. We made our way to the bus stopping to get ice cream before getting back on Los Tres Pillares. It was such a bittersweet feeling, knowing that this was out last excursion. There was definitely a sad atmosphere on the bus as we drove away from beautiful Santander. We got back in the Manc around 8. I went for a run in my favorite park and then Madre made dinner for us.
Sabado en Fuente de
The next morning after a delicious breakfast we headed across the street to take the teleferico to the top of the mountain peaks. A teleferico is a cable car. About 15 of us could fit in the teleferico. Of course some people were slightly terrified of being in such cramped quarters while we ascended about 10,000 feet upward toward the mountain peaks. I thought the ride was fantastic. I almost felt like a bird getting a view of everything beneath and above me. The teleferico docked at the little hut on top of the mountain and we were all let out to explore the winter wonderland on top of the mountain. The rest of the group came up on the next lift along with some extreme skiers who came with their gear to conquer the snowy slopes.
The mountain range that we were standing on top of is called Picos De Europa, and the highest point in the range, which we had a crystal clear view of, was called Peña Romaña. Before we all set out to explore we took a group picture with the Peña Romaña as the background. The boys all decided they would try and climb up one of snow slopes to get a better view. A couple of girls followed. I watched them make their way toward the top occasionally getting caught in snowdrifts or sliding back down the slope. I went and walked around taking in all the views. I managed to get caught in a snowdrift that went passed my hips! Our time on the mountain ended with a spontaneous snowball fight with a group of Spaniards. It was a full out war. Snow balls were flying left and right. It was JMU against the Spanish!
We took the teleferico back down the mountain, taking a bathroom break before departing for the town of Santillana del Mar. The bus went through more treacherous mountain passes and once again I thought the bus was going to go careening of the side of the cliff. Thank god for our skilled driver. When we arrived in Santillana where we were given free time to get food. Annie had already visited the town, so we went to a restaurant that she had been to with her mom. I had packed a peanut butter sandwich, which turned out to be a good decision considering how many complaints everyone had on the gross food. Mary’s lunch turned out to be a fried hot dog. You never know what you are going to get when you order the menu del dia!
After lunch we walked around the town for a little before heading back to the bus. Our next stop was at the neocueva a Altamira. This was another ancient cave with painting. It was not real cave like the other one we had visited. It was just a recreation, so it lacked some serious authenticity. Our tour guide was a little snooty, but extreme attractive in his Gucci glasses. I thought the museum part of the exhibit was pretty cool. It had a displaying showing how man evolved from a caveman into a homo sapien, sapien.
We left the museum and headed back to Santillana del Mar. Once we were back in the town, Jesus gave a little lesson about the history of the town and the Spanish Inquisition. We learned that the town was an important crossroad for the spread of Christianity and the Spanish Inquisition. Jesus took us to the Museo de Inquisicion after his lesson. This was quite eye opening. We were exposed to some of the most brutal forms of torture. It pretty disgusting to think of the cruelties man can inflict on man. Some of the methods were absolutely horrific; especially the ones that involved slow painful deaths with dull saws.
I was glad to leave the museum. We got an hour or so to walk around the town. Santillana del Mar is known for their chocolate. There were hundreds of different chocolate bars with different ingredients and flavors. One the oddest flavors I saw was chocolate and blue cheese. I am not sure that would be very good. The bars were around 3.50, slightly expensive for a chocolate bar so I decided to pass. After exploring the city everyone got back on the bus and we headed to Santander.
We arrived in Santander after dark, so we did not get to see much of the city. Our hotel was amazing, like always another five star. We had dinner with the group in the hotel. I decided to be vegetarian again, which was a good choice because everyone else was given a large hunk duck. I do like duck, but I wasn’t feeling it. After dinner I went out with a group. I know quite a shocker because I never go out on excursion. I only made it to one bar, but I did chatted with a Spaniard, who happened to be in school for computer science. I let the guy know about how horrible I though the Internet was in Spain. Surprisingly, he agreed with me. I went back to the hotel with a couple of girls after.
The mountain range that we were standing on top of is called Picos De Europa, and the highest point in the range, which we had a crystal clear view of, was called Peña Romaña. Before we all set out to explore we took a group picture with the Peña Romaña as the background. The boys all decided they would try and climb up one of snow slopes to get a better view. A couple of girls followed. I watched them make their way toward the top occasionally getting caught in snowdrifts or sliding back down the slope. I went and walked around taking in all the views. I managed to get caught in a snowdrift that went passed my hips! Our time on the mountain ended with a spontaneous snowball fight with a group of Spaniards. It was a full out war. Snow balls were flying left and right. It was JMU against the Spanish!
We took the teleferico back down the mountain, taking a bathroom break before departing for the town of Santillana del Mar. The bus went through more treacherous mountain passes and once again I thought the bus was going to go careening of the side of the cliff. Thank god for our skilled driver. When we arrived in Santillana where we were given free time to get food. Annie had already visited the town, so we went to a restaurant that she had been to with her mom. I had packed a peanut butter sandwich, which turned out to be a good decision considering how many complaints everyone had on the gross food. Mary’s lunch turned out to be a fried hot dog. You never know what you are going to get when you order the menu del dia!
After lunch we walked around the town for a little before heading back to the bus. Our next stop was at the neocueva a Altamira. This was another ancient cave with painting. It was not real cave like the other one we had visited. It was just a recreation, so it lacked some serious authenticity. Our tour guide was a little snooty, but extreme attractive in his Gucci glasses. I thought the museum part of the exhibit was pretty cool. It had a displaying showing how man evolved from a caveman into a homo sapien, sapien.
We left the museum and headed back to Santillana del Mar. Once we were back in the town, Jesus gave a little lesson about the history of the town and the Spanish Inquisition. We learned that the town was an important crossroad for the spread of Christianity and the Spanish Inquisition. Jesus took us to the Museo de Inquisicion after his lesson. This was quite eye opening. We were exposed to some of the most brutal forms of torture. It pretty disgusting to think of the cruelties man can inflict on man. Some of the methods were absolutely horrific; especially the ones that involved slow painful deaths with dull saws.
I was glad to leave the museum. We got an hour or so to walk around the town. Santillana del Mar is known for their chocolate. There were hundreds of different chocolate bars with different ingredients and flavors. One the oddest flavors I saw was chocolate and blue cheese. I am not sure that would be very good. The bars were around 3.50, slightly expensive for a chocolate bar so I decided to pass. After exploring the city everyone got back on the bus and we headed to Santander.
We arrived in Santander after dark, so we did not get to see much of the city. Our hotel was amazing, like always another five star. We had dinner with the group in the hotel. I decided to be vegetarian again, which was a good choice because everyone else was given a large hunk duck. I do like duck, but I wasn’t feeling it. After dinner I went out with a group. I know quite a shocker because I never go out on excursion. I only made it to one bar, but I did chatted with a Spaniard, who happened to be in school for computer science. I let the guy know about how horrible I though the Internet was in Spain. Surprisingly, he agreed with me. I went back to the hotel with a couple of girls after.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
CANTABRIA
Three days after we got back from Italy we were off on another adventure, our final excursion of the Semester to beautiful Cantabria. We left Salamanca startling early at 6:30 am from our favorite plaza Gabriel and Galan, of course.
A couple people in our group decided they would stay out all night and just come to the bus in time to leave. Kelsey, her sister, and Allie stayed out all night, but did not manage to make the bus in time. Kelsey’s parents also happened to be coming on the excursion. I thought it was hilarious that we were waiting for Kelsey while her parents had managed to find the bus on time.
We bused for about three or four hours. It was way too early to even remember what time it was! Anyway our first stop in Cantabria was at las cuevas de Puente Viesgo. These caves had thousands of ancient cave drawings. There was an overwhelming amount of buffalo drawings and about billion different red handprints, which were created using a very primitive form of spray paint. Literally the cavemen would blow paint across their hands to make these drawings, just like spray paint. We took a tour of the cave and the paints with a guide, who was very good at pointing out these ancient works. If it were not for our wonderful guide, I would have no idea about how many different caveman depictions of buffalo there are.
After our tour, Jesus decided to give us some free time. I took a mini-walk with Andrea to explore the path around the cuevas. In the distance we could se snowcapped mountains. We did not know at the time, but our hotel would be situated right at the foothills of the glacial peaks. Everyone ate their bocadillas from their Madres before we got on the bus and headed toward the mountains.
The next leg our journey was through quite possibly the most twisting and winedy roads I have ever been on. At times I felt like Los Tres Pillares was either going to scrape across the mountainside or plummet down a cliff. Most people were sleeping, so they missed the incredible views and the amazing maneuvering skills of bus driver. We arrived at our hotel a little after four. I was absolutely blown away by what lay ahead of us. Towering mountains literally surrounded our hotel/mountain lodge. We had free time when we got to the hotel, so one big group decided to go on a hike. Andrea, Mary and I all decided we wanted to explore the mountains with out the usually group of 30, so we waited until after the rain stopped.
We trudged through a bunch of mud and stumbled through the steep and rocky uphill trail, but it was totally worth it. The hotel had walking sticks in each room so we made good use of them leaping over puddles and such. The view from the top was incredible. Below us we could see our hotel, a tinny Tres Pillares, farms in the distance, and all around us we were surrounded by these misty, snow-capped blue mountains. We hiked for an hour or so making it to waterfall before heading back down. I think we converted Andrea into a nature girl. She is not the typical outdoor adventurer, but she loved every minute of our hike. I think the walking stick made all the difference.
On the way back down we saw the other group in the distance coming down another side of the mountain. We tried to get their attention by making animal calls and opening and closing our umbrellas. Later we found out that they thought we were in need of help, before they realized we were just being goofs. The other group came down on the side of mountain with snow, so instead of walking down they slide down the snow.
We got ready for dinner after we got back from dinner. I had packed all my fancy dresses for this weekend since I was determined to wear them at least once while I was in Spain. I think everyone had the same idea because our group looked so well put together, especially the boys showing up in their ties. I decided I wanted to be a vegetarian that night, so instead of having a kilo of red meat like everyone else I got fish and vegetables with the vegetarians, such a good choice. After dinner I was full and exhausted so I hung out for a little bit and then went to bed. Our hotel in the small town, emphasis on small, of Fuente De did not really have much nightlife to offer. The hotel was equipped with a game room and plenty of salons filled with comfortable, oversized chairs where you could light a fire in the fireplace. The hotel reminded me of being out west. Everything was made of wood, it was decorated with earthy colors and it just felt so relaxing.
A couple people in our group decided they would stay out all night and just come to the bus in time to leave. Kelsey, her sister, and Allie stayed out all night, but did not manage to make the bus in time. Kelsey’s parents also happened to be coming on the excursion. I thought it was hilarious that we were waiting for Kelsey while her parents had managed to find the bus on time.
We bused for about three or four hours. It was way too early to even remember what time it was! Anyway our first stop in Cantabria was at las cuevas de Puente Viesgo. These caves had thousands of ancient cave drawings. There was an overwhelming amount of buffalo drawings and about billion different red handprints, which were created using a very primitive form of spray paint. Literally the cavemen would blow paint across their hands to make these drawings, just like spray paint. We took a tour of the cave and the paints with a guide, who was very good at pointing out these ancient works. If it were not for our wonderful guide, I would have no idea about how many different caveman depictions of buffalo there are.
After our tour, Jesus decided to give us some free time. I took a mini-walk with Andrea to explore the path around the cuevas. In the distance we could se snowcapped mountains. We did not know at the time, but our hotel would be situated right at the foothills of the glacial peaks. Everyone ate their bocadillas from their Madres before we got on the bus and headed toward the mountains.
The next leg our journey was through quite possibly the most twisting and winedy roads I have ever been on. At times I felt like Los Tres Pillares was either going to scrape across the mountainside or plummet down a cliff. Most people were sleeping, so they missed the incredible views and the amazing maneuvering skills of bus driver. We arrived at our hotel a little after four. I was absolutely blown away by what lay ahead of us. Towering mountains literally surrounded our hotel/mountain lodge. We had free time when we got to the hotel, so one big group decided to go on a hike. Andrea, Mary and I all decided we wanted to explore the mountains with out the usually group of 30, so we waited until after the rain stopped.
We trudged through a bunch of mud and stumbled through the steep and rocky uphill trail, but it was totally worth it. The hotel had walking sticks in each room so we made good use of them leaping over puddles and such. The view from the top was incredible. Below us we could see our hotel, a tinny Tres Pillares, farms in the distance, and all around us we were surrounded by these misty, snow-capped blue mountains. We hiked for an hour or so making it to waterfall before heading back down. I think we converted Andrea into a nature girl. She is not the typical outdoor adventurer, but she loved every minute of our hike. I think the walking stick made all the difference.
On the way back down we saw the other group in the distance coming down another side of the mountain. We tried to get their attention by making animal calls and opening and closing our umbrellas. Later we found out that they thought we were in need of help, before they realized we were just being goofs. The other group came down on the side of mountain with snow, so instead of walking down they slide down the snow.
We got ready for dinner after we got back from dinner. I had packed all my fancy dresses for this weekend since I was determined to wear them at least once while I was in Spain. I think everyone had the same idea because our group looked so well put together, especially the boys showing up in their ties. I decided I wanted to be a vegetarian that night, so instead of having a kilo of red meat like everyone else I got fish and vegetables with the vegetarians, such a good choice. After dinner I was full and exhausted so I hung out for a little bit and then went to bed. Our hotel in the small town, emphasis on small, of Fuente De did not really have much nightlife to offer. The hotel was equipped with a game room and plenty of salons filled with comfortable, oversized chairs where you could light a fire in the fireplace. The hotel reminded me of being out west. Everything was made of wood, it was decorated with earthy colors and it just felt so relaxing.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
CIAO ITALY
The next day we took a train from Florence back to Rome. Then we took a bus from the train station to the airport. We waited at the airport forever because our favorite airline Ryanair is a piece of crap, and they only have three employees working for them. When it was finally time to board they stopped me before I could get on the plane. The friendly and wonderful Ryanair personnel told me I could not carry my purse on and my backpack. I managed to shove everything in my purse under my coat and zip it up. I got on the plane with a coat full of purse looking like an idiot, but luckily the lovely Ryanair flight attendant bitches did not say anything. We had the same flight crew as we did our flight there. I think the flight attendant I got in a fight with remembered me because she gave me a wonderful smile when I walked on to the plane.
When we had landed in Madrid, we took the metro to the bus station. There was slight problem with metro line that had the stop for the bus station, so we had to change directions and take a longer route. We were kind of pushing it for time, but we made with about three minutes to spare. We got off the bus in Salamanca and then took a taxi back to our apartments. It was quite a lot of traveling for one day. I was really sad that we were back in Salamanca. Everything in Italy was so amazing. Salamanca just could not compare!
When we had landed in Madrid, we took the metro to the bus station. There was slight problem with metro line that had the stop for the bus station, so we had to change directions and take a longer route. We were kind of pushing it for time, but we made with about three minutes to spare. We got off the bus in Salamanca and then took a taxi back to our apartments. It was quite a lot of traveling for one day. I was really sad that we were back in Salamanca. Everything in Italy was so amazing. Salamanca just could not compare!
NOT YOUR TYPICAL EASTER
Easter Sunday we had planned to take a bike tour through the Tuscan countryside. We met the David, our tour guide and the owner of the bike company, at a bridge down by the river at ten. He took us about 12 km outside of the Florence to where he stored his bikes. Along the ride we got to know David a little bit. He was from Colorado, went to college in California and moved to Italy after college and has been there ever since. I would say he is mid-thirties pushing forties. He was really interesting and an awesome guide. If my future career plans don’t pan out, I think I will copy David move to Florence and start my own bike tour company in Tuscany. Living in the Tuscan countryside doesn’t sound like such a bad idea, and I could pick up Italian pretty easily since it’s so close to Spanish.
Once we got to where the bikes were stored, (on an old family farm, owned by the church where he rents the basement closet to the keep his bikes) we suited up with helmets and selected our bikes. We pushed our bikes to the top of the hill, which was quite a workout and then David gave us a quick lesson before we set off on the road. Usually I hesitate on bikes, but I was the leader of this pack as we rode through the gently rolling hills and vineyards.
Our first stop was at a vineyard, not just any old vineyard but Machiavelli’s vineyard. David gave us a tour of the vineyard, showing where the wine was aged and stored and telling about the history of Chianti wine in the region. He told us about the Chianti committee that determines if a wine can be considered Chianti. After the tour we had a mini wine tasting where we tried two different varieties of Chianti. I liked the more expensive Chianti surprise, surprise. We were all feeling pretty good after the tasting when it was time to get back on the bikes.
We biked through the town around the vineyard and then through some more vineyards. We were biking on the main roads, but luckily since it was Easter there was not too much traffic. I would have been terrified if there had been a lot of traffic because the roads were very narrow and windy. We biked to an amazing look out point that was surrounded by vineyards. In the distance we could see a castle and endless rolling green fields. After stopping for pictures on the top of the hill, we rode down a steep incline. Thankfully David led us down this winding hill. We biked for a couple more miles and then stopped in a small town for lunch.
I ordered pesto tortellini and we also had salad and some random appetizers, like chicken liver pâté, which was surprisingly good. Dessert was amazing. It was a kind of like a pear pie covered with this rich chocolate sauce that was to die for. After lunch I did not think I would be able to get on bike and ride. My stomach was so full! I did make back on the bike. This time we biked for a while. It was kind of relaxing because I was leading the pack so I got a little bit further ahead. It was really nice to ride and enjoy the incredible scenery in peace.
David had warned of us a big hill that we would encounter at the end of the ride. He was not lying this hill continued for about 3 km and just kept going up and up. I was pretty winded when I got to the top, but I finished a good 10 mines before everyone else. When everyone else got to the top, David rewarded us with a gelato. I was still full from lunch, but I was not about to turn down a gelato.
When our gelato break was over we biked the last part of the tour back to the farm where David keeps the bikes. David took us back to Florence and we thanked him and parted ways. Jeanie, Andrea and Karen walked back to the Ponte Vecchio where we were meeting Victoria. Some how we found ourselves walking back to the leather jackets. Jeanie was dead set on finding a jacket, since she did not buy one the day before. We wound up back in the same leather shop, with the cute Mexican that refused to lower his price for Andrea and I. Once again we spent another hour there. Jeanie was trying to talk down the price, but our dealer would not budge. Finally he went down ten euros and Jeanie decided she had enough haggling so she bought the jacket.
We walked pack to the Piazza Della Signora, right by the Uffizi Museum and sat down to enjoy the view. Since the busses were not running on Easter, we had to find alternative transportation back to the hotel. We ended up just using our legs and walked all the back to the hotel. It was probably three miles away, which is not too bad. Andrea, Jeanie, I all stopped off at a pizzeria by our hotel to get some pizza to go. We ate the pizza in our room while reminiscing about the past 10 wonderful days we had spent in Italy.
Once we got to where the bikes were stored, (on an old family farm, owned by the church where he rents the basement closet to the keep his bikes) we suited up with helmets and selected our bikes. We pushed our bikes to the top of the hill, which was quite a workout and then David gave us a quick lesson before we set off on the road. Usually I hesitate on bikes, but I was the leader of this pack as we rode through the gently rolling hills and vineyards.
Our first stop was at a vineyard, not just any old vineyard but Machiavelli’s vineyard. David gave us a tour of the vineyard, showing where the wine was aged and stored and telling about the history of Chianti wine in the region. He told us about the Chianti committee that determines if a wine can be considered Chianti. After the tour we had a mini wine tasting where we tried two different varieties of Chianti. I liked the more expensive Chianti surprise, surprise. We were all feeling pretty good after the tasting when it was time to get back on the bikes.
We biked through the town around the vineyard and then through some more vineyards. We were biking on the main roads, but luckily since it was Easter there was not too much traffic. I would have been terrified if there had been a lot of traffic because the roads were very narrow and windy. We biked to an amazing look out point that was surrounded by vineyards. In the distance we could see a castle and endless rolling green fields. After stopping for pictures on the top of the hill, we rode down a steep incline. Thankfully David led us down this winding hill. We biked for a couple more miles and then stopped in a small town for lunch.
I ordered pesto tortellini and we also had salad and some random appetizers, like chicken liver pâté, which was surprisingly good. Dessert was amazing. It was a kind of like a pear pie covered with this rich chocolate sauce that was to die for. After lunch I did not think I would be able to get on bike and ride. My stomach was so full! I did make back on the bike. This time we biked for a while. It was kind of relaxing because I was leading the pack so I got a little bit further ahead. It was really nice to ride and enjoy the incredible scenery in peace.
David had warned of us a big hill that we would encounter at the end of the ride. He was not lying this hill continued for about 3 km and just kept going up and up. I was pretty winded when I got to the top, but I finished a good 10 mines before everyone else. When everyone else got to the top, David rewarded us with a gelato. I was still full from lunch, but I was not about to turn down a gelato.
When our gelato break was over we biked the last part of the tour back to the farm where David keeps the bikes. David took us back to Florence and we thanked him and parted ways. Jeanie, Andrea and Karen walked back to the Ponte Vecchio where we were meeting Victoria. Some how we found ourselves walking back to the leather jackets. Jeanie was dead set on finding a jacket, since she did not buy one the day before. We wound up back in the same leather shop, with the cute Mexican that refused to lower his price for Andrea and I. Once again we spent another hour there. Jeanie was trying to talk down the price, but our dealer would not budge. Finally he went down ten euros and Jeanie decided she had enough haggling so she bought the jacket.
We walked pack to the Piazza Della Signora, right by the Uffizi Museum and sat down to enjoy the view. Since the busses were not running on Easter, we had to find alternative transportation back to the hotel. We ended up just using our legs and walked all the back to the hotel. It was probably three miles away, which is not too bad. Andrea, Jeanie, I all stopped off at a pizzeria by our hotel to get some pizza to go. We ate the pizza in our room while reminiscing about the past 10 wonderful days we had spent in Italy.
SATURDAY IN FLORENCE
We started the day with breakfast in the hotel. It was such a rare treat that we were getting breakfast included seeing how we had been eating peanut butter for breakfast (and then again for lunch!) most mornings. After breakfast we got back on the bus and headed for the center of the city. We got off at the Duomo stop again and headed for the Academia Museum. We had preordered tickets for this museum as well, so we got to jump to the front of the line. The Academia Museum in Florence is home to the famous sculpture David by Michelangelo. As soon as I entered the gallery with the David I lost interest in all of the other famous paintings and sculptures in the room. All my attention was solely focused on the David and I could tell that David was having the same effect on everyone else too. It ones of those amazing works of art, that you can just stare at for hours and hours. We did not stare at David for hours, but it was an incredible sight. I read that the David is so remarkable because the marble Michelangelo worked with was nearly impossible to carve anything out of it. Other famous artists like Belinni and Da Vinci tired to work with marble but were foiled in all their attempts. The rest of the museum was filled with other famous paintings and statues, but everything seemed less significant that the large than life David.
FYI:
The David represents the David from the biblical story of David and the Goliath. In Michelangelo’s interpretation David is portrayed as a gangly teenager. David’s hands and head are out of proportion to the rest of his body. The message that Michelangelo was trying to get across was that David was a meek young man that defeated the Goliath.
We left the museum and headed straight for the infamous leather markets. It was almost too much shopping for one person, but if you give me a shopping challenge I will be victorious! The San Lorenzo Markets are famous for their Italian leather. You can buy practically any kind of leather object there. I was mesmerized by the leather jackets. Andrea and I went into several leather dealers’ shops and tried on endless coats. Some of the dealers were pretty pushy and touchy, so we left their stores. One guy in particular kept saying Mama Mia while rubbing us as we tried on the jackets. It was interesting how fast the dealers would lower their prices as you started walking away. We got really good at turning dealers down.
After browsing through the all the stands and buying a wallet for Tim, we walked Europe’s most famous food market called Mercati Centrale. This market is the largest indoor food market in the Europe. The first floor is dedicated to specialty food shops selling pastas, spices, meats, wines, cheeses, and vinegars. We got to try some of the best balsamic vinegar I will probably ever eat in my entire life. It was aged 30 years and it had this amazing bitter, sweat taste but it was not watery like typical balsamic vinegar. It was rich and creamy. I think a bottle was going for around 60 euros!
On the second floor there was fresh produce. Anything from fruits to dried chilly peppers and fresh artichokes. We walked back down to the first floor and Andrea, Jeanie, and Karen got lunch from one of the food venders. Victory and I packed sandwiches. While we were waiting at the table for the others to come back with their food, an Italian man came and sat down next to us. I started asking him how to bargain with the leather dealers. He gave me some very helpful pointers, and told me that once you reach their bottom line they will not drop the price any more. With these helpful tips in hand, I was ready to try my hand at haggling with the dealers.
After lunch we headed back to the Duomo to walk inside. The Duomo was enormous, but the best part, the giant dome, that gives the building its name, was closed off for Easter the following day. Everyone took plenty pictures in front of the Duomo. We were all wondering where we should go next when Jeanie turned to me with a conniving glint in her eyes and said, “let’s go get our bombers.” She had already worked out a plane in her hear. She said she would put them on my credit card and we could pay her later. I was thrilled with this idea because ever since I had been to the leather markets all I could think about was my future bomber. We went back to the leather markets, weaving in and out of the leather stores trying to decide upon the jacket. The hardest part was coming to terms with the price. I used the skills I had learned from the man at lunch, which seemed to help.
We had already talked to several dealers and returned back to some place to check the prices. Our favorite dealer was this guy in his twenties who was pretty cute. He had us guess where he was originally from. Sadly, none of us even came close. We were all thinking Europe, but he was from Mexico. He also told us he has a girl friend that goes to Elizabethtown University in Lancaster, Pa. What a small world! We spent over an hour in his shop trying on coats and chatting. When it finally came time to talk price, he would not budge. The lowest offer he gave us was 130 euros a coat. No way was paying that much, so I had to turn him down. Unlike other dealers, he did not start yelling lower prices as we left the store. We went back to another store and Andrea and I found the coats we wanted. We ended up paying 110 each, which is better than 130, but still really expensive. I don’t regret my purchase, it was an investment and it looks and feels amazing! Jeanie could not find her perfect coat, but Karen and Victoria were getting antsy. Some how I knew we would be back at the leather markets again before we left Florence.
With our new leather coats in hand decided we should do something fun for free since we had just spent a lot of euros. We could not find any museum or church that did not have an entrance fee so we walked to the Piazza Michelangelo, which is across the river and on top of a hill looking over the city. We did not realize how long the walk was or how high this hill was, but it felt good to be away from the crowded markets. The Piazza Michelangelo was beautiful of course. There was an incredible view of the city and the surrounding countryside and a bronze replication of Michelangelo’s David. On top of the hill there was also a famous church called St. Minometi. This church looked exactly like the facade of the Duomo, all made out of red, green and white marble. We walked around the interior of the church as well before leaving the Piazza.
We had reservations at 7 at the cute restaurant we wanted to eat at the night before, so we made our way down the hill toward the restaurant. The restaurant was amazing and the prices were incredible. I started out with a Florentine specialty called Riboletta. This is a stew made with chickpeas, spinach and bread and it was absolutely delicious. My next plate I ordered veal scaloppini in a lemon sauce. This was equally as amazing. I ended my meal with tiramisu. My belly was very happy after the meal.
Andrea, Jeanie and I started walking back toward the bus stop after dinner stopping to listen to street performers along the way
FYI:
The David represents the David from the biblical story of David and the Goliath. In Michelangelo’s interpretation David is portrayed as a gangly teenager. David’s hands and head are out of proportion to the rest of his body. The message that Michelangelo was trying to get across was that David was a meek young man that defeated the Goliath.
We left the museum and headed straight for the infamous leather markets. It was almost too much shopping for one person, but if you give me a shopping challenge I will be victorious! The San Lorenzo Markets are famous for their Italian leather. You can buy practically any kind of leather object there. I was mesmerized by the leather jackets. Andrea and I went into several leather dealers’ shops and tried on endless coats. Some of the dealers were pretty pushy and touchy, so we left their stores. One guy in particular kept saying Mama Mia while rubbing us as we tried on the jackets. It was interesting how fast the dealers would lower their prices as you started walking away. We got really good at turning dealers down.
After browsing through the all the stands and buying a wallet for Tim, we walked Europe’s most famous food market called Mercati Centrale. This market is the largest indoor food market in the Europe. The first floor is dedicated to specialty food shops selling pastas, spices, meats, wines, cheeses, and vinegars. We got to try some of the best balsamic vinegar I will probably ever eat in my entire life. It was aged 30 years and it had this amazing bitter, sweat taste but it was not watery like typical balsamic vinegar. It was rich and creamy. I think a bottle was going for around 60 euros!
On the second floor there was fresh produce. Anything from fruits to dried chilly peppers and fresh artichokes. We walked back down to the first floor and Andrea, Jeanie, and Karen got lunch from one of the food venders. Victory and I packed sandwiches. While we were waiting at the table for the others to come back with their food, an Italian man came and sat down next to us. I started asking him how to bargain with the leather dealers. He gave me some very helpful pointers, and told me that once you reach their bottom line they will not drop the price any more. With these helpful tips in hand, I was ready to try my hand at haggling with the dealers.
After lunch we headed back to the Duomo to walk inside. The Duomo was enormous, but the best part, the giant dome, that gives the building its name, was closed off for Easter the following day. Everyone took plenty pictures in front of the Duomo. We were all wondering where we should go next when Jeanie turned to me with a conniving glint in her eyes and said, “let’s go get our bombers.” She had already worked out a plane in her hear. She said she would put them on my credit card and we could pay her later. I was thrilled with this idea because ever since I had been to the leather markets all I could think about was my future bomber. We went back to the leather markets, weaving in and out of the leather stores trying to decide upon the jacket. The hardest part was coming to terms with the price. I used the skills I had learned from the man at lunch, which seemed to help.
We had already talked to several dealers and returned back to some place to check the prices. Our favorite dealer was this guy in his twenties who was pretty cute. He had us guess where he was originally from. Sadly, none of us even came close. We were all thinking Europe, but he was from Mexico. He also told us he has a girl friend that goes to Elizabethtown University in Lancaster, Pa. What a small world! We spent over an hour in his shop trying on coats and chatting. When it finally came time to talk price, he would not budge. The lowest offer he gave us was 130 euros a coat. No way was paying that much, so I had to turn him down. Unlike other dealers, he did not start yelling lower prices as we left the store. We went back to another store and Andrea and I found the coats we wanted. We ended up paying 110 each, which is better than 130, but still really expensive. I don’t regret my purchase, it was an investment and it looks and feels amazing! Jeanie could not find her perfect coat, but Karen and Victoria were getting antsy. Some how I knew we would be back at the leather markets again before we left Florence.
With our new leather coats in hand decided we should do something fun for free since we had just spent a lot of euros. We could not find any museum or church that did not have an entrance fee so we walked to the Piazza Michelangelo, which is across the river and on top of a hill looking over the city. We did not realize how long the walk was or how high this hill was, but it felt good to be away from the crowded markets. The Piazza Michelangelo was beautiful of course. There was an incredible view of the city and the surrounding countryside and a bronze replication of Michelangelo’s David. On top of the hill there was also a famous church called St. Minometi. This church looked exactly like the facade of the Duomo, all made out of red, green and white marble. We walked around the interior of the church as well before leaving the Piazza.
We had reservations at 7 at the cute restaurant we wanted to eat at the night before, so we made our way down the hill toward the restaurant. The restaurant was amazing and the prices were incredible. I started out with a Florentine specialty called Riboletta. This is a stew made with chickpeas, spinach and bread and it was absolutely delicious. My next plate I ordered veal scaloppini in a lemon sauce. This was equally as amazing. I ended my meal with tiramisu. My belly was very happy after the meal.
Andrea, Jeanie and I started walking back toward the bus stop after dinner stopping to listen to street performers along the way
Friday, May 8, 2009
WHAT TRAIN STATION??
The next day we left Venice for Florence. We got packed up and left the hotel by 9 am to catch our train at 10. However, we did not realize that the Vaparetti did not start running until 9:30, so we were slightly concerned about making the train. I was confident we would not have a problem because the train station was a 5-minute Vap ride away. The Vap did come and we made it to the train station in plenty of time to realize that our train was not listed on the departure board. Getting slightly freaked out, we asked one of the conductors where our train was. He looked at us and said, “Oh yes it is on the mainland.” I think my heart stopped beating for a second. Until the conductor told us we could just take this train to the main land train station and catch our train to Florence from there. However, the conductor did not look at the time our train was leaving for Florence, so by the time the train reached the mainland our train to Florence had left.
Andrea immediately went to information center and told the attendant the problem. He simply smiled and said since we already bought the ticket we could just get on the next train to Florence. We just had to pay an extra eight euros, and we would not have seats. I was so relived that we did not have buy another ticket. The next train to Florence was in about an hour, so it gave us plenty of time to calm our selves down after our little train freak out.
We got on the next train and told the conductor. He showed us where we could stand. After about twenty minutes of standing on the train, we all sat down in one of door wells of the train. Not exactly the most comfortable seats and they became even more uncomfortable when these creepy Italian men started saying "Ciao Bella" to us for a good half and hour. We finally reached Florence, and I was so glad we made it considering the fiasco we had with the trains.
Our hotel was not in the center of Florence, so we had to take a bus to hotel. Being the naive American tourists, we thought we needed to buy a public transportation bus pass to get around. However, nobody really checks if you have a bus ticket, so we wasted 12 euros on a useless bus ticket. Our hotel was not the greatest but the price was right and breakfast was included. We checked in and put our stuff down before heading back out. We had pre-ordered tickets for the Uffizi Museum at 4, so we got on the “free” bus and took it back into the center of town.
The bus stopped right in front of the Duomo, which was quite an incredible sight. The Duomo is a church built by the famous Medici family that controlled the provence of Tuscany and city of Florence during the 17th and 18th centuries. The Duomo is ginormous and it’s facade is red, green and white marble. There is separate bell tower called the Campaneli and a baptastry in the Duomo Square. We walked through the square snapping pictures as we headed toward the Uffizi Museum.
I really enjoy museum, I love looking at art and learning about significant painters throughout history, but for some reason I was not feeling the Uffizi Museum at all. It was probably a combination of missing the train, paying for a useless bus ticket, and there was no air condition in the over crowded museum. The heat and our crankiness got the best of us and we decided we needed to leave the Uffizi and get gelato. A gelato and a diet coke was exactly what I needed. It perked me up 100% and I was totally ready to go exploring Florence.
We walked down to the most Famous bridge in Florence called the Ponte Vecchio. The Ponte Vecchio is lined with jewelry shops displaying some of Florence’s finest gems. While we were taking pictures on the bridge, Jeanie’s flip flop broke. She tried to fix it with a piece of gum, but was not having too much luck. Andrea and I went off in search of some shoes for Jeanie to buy. At first we were not having any luck. Everything we spotted was some kind of fancy Italian leather loafer, which I know Jeanie would not be caught dead in. Eventually we did find a store, so we rushed back to get Jeanie. Jeanie ended up getting a cute pair of gladiator sandals. The cashier at the shoe store got very friendly with us, and invited us to hang out with him later. We kindly declined and headed back to the bridge to find the others.
The search for dinner commenced after Jeanie had new shoes. We walked by several places checking the menu and the ambiance. The one good thing we were noticing about Florence that the prices were a million times better than in Venice. In our search for the perfect restaurant, we walked by Pitti Palace, a famous palace that the Medici’s probably lived in. Then we came across and Internet café so Karen and Victoria decided they would use the internet while they had the chance. I took out Andrea’s map and started looking for a restaurant. I found one that was nearby with only one dollar sign, meaning it would be in our price range, and it said that it was a local hotspot you should not miss. We walked down to the restaurant only to discover that they were not lying when they said local hotspot. There was a line out the door! I went in and asked how long the wait. The owner, who was this rather large older man just looked at me and said just wait. We were not looking to wait all night, so I gave him my name for a reservation the following night. We walked back toward the Ponte Veccino and stopped at restaurant we had said looked cute earlier in the day.
The restaurant was called Bibo, not sure what that means in Italian but the cuisine was absolutely amazing. All of us decided to get the tourist menu for 15 euros, which included a first dish, a main dish, a vegetable, a desert, and a drink. It was totally worth it! I had the classic Italian minestrone soap, then chicken catcatori seasoned to perfection, for my vegetable I had sauteed spinach, and lastly for desert I had a roasted pear. It was phenomenal. I know it sounds like a lot of food, but in Italy the portion sizes are not out of control like they are in the U.S. Everything was wonderful.
The restaurant also happened to be right next to a church that was having an Easter Vigil. As we were eating, the whole congregation along with the priest came out of the church carrying candles and microphones singing. They continued down the street until we could not here them singing any more. After dinner we headed back to the hotel for the night.
Andrea immediately went to information center and told the attendant the problem. He simply smiled and said since we already bought the ticket we could just get on the next train to Florence. We just had to pay an extra eight euros, and we would not have seats. I was so relived that we did not have buy another ticket. The next train to Florence was in about an hour, so it gave us plenty of time to calm our selves down after our little train freak out.
We got on the next train and told the conductor. He showed us where we could stand. After about twenty minutes of standing on the train, we all sat down in one of door wells of the train. Not exactly the most comfortable seats and they became even more uncomfortable when these creepy Italian men started saying "Ciao Bella" to us for a good half and hour. We finally reached Florence, and I was so glad we made it considering the fiasco we had with the trains.
Our hotel was not in the center of Florence, so we had to take a bus to hotel. Being the naive American tourists, we thought we needed to buy a public transportation bus pass to get around. However, nobody really checks if you have a bus ticket, so we wasted 12 euros on a useless bus ticket. Our hotel was not the greatest but the price was right and breakfast was included. We checked in and put our stuff down before heading back out. We had pre-ordered tickets for the Uffizi Museum at 4, so we got on the “free” bus and took it back into the center of town.
The bus stopped right in front of the Duomo, which was quite an incredible sight. The Duomo is a church built by the famous Medici family that controlled the provence of Tuscany and city of Florence during the 17th and 18th centuries. The Duomo is ginormous and it’s facade is red, green and white marble. There is separate bell tower called the Campaneli and a baptastry in the Duomo Square. We walked through the square snapping pictures as we headed toward the Uffizi Museum.
I really enjoy museum, I love looking at art and learning about significant painters throughout history, but for some reason I was not feeling the Uffizi Museum at all. It was probably a combination of missing the train, paying for a useless bus ticket, and there was no air condition in the over crowded museum. The heat and our crankiness got the best of us and we decided we needed to leave the Uffizi and get gelato. A gelato and a diet coke was exactly what I needed. It perked me up 100% and I was totally ready to go exploring Florence.
We walked down to the most Famous bridge in Florence called the Ponte Vecchio. The Ponte Vecchio is lined with jewelry shops displaying some of Florence’s finest gems. While we were taking pictures on the bridge, Jeanie’s flip flop broke. She tried to fix it with a piece of gum, but was not having too much luck. Andrea and I went off in search of some shoes for Jeanie to buy. At first we were not having any luck. Everything we spotted was some kind of fancy Italian leather loafer, which I know Jeanie would not be caught dead in. Eventually we did find a store, so we rushed back to get Jeanie. Jeanie ended up getting a cute pair of gladiator sandals. The cashier at the shoe store got very friendly with us, and invited us to hang out with him later. We kindly declined and headed back to the bridge to find the others.
The search for dinner commenced after Jeanie had new shoes. We walked by several places checking the menu and the ambiance. The one good thing we were noticing about Florence that the prices were a million times better than in Venice. In our search for the perfect restaurant, we walked by Pitti Palace, a famous palace that the Medici’s probably lived in. Then we came across and Internet café so Karen and Victoria decided they would use the internet while they had the chance. I took out Andrea’s map and started looking for a restaurant. I found one that was nearby with only one dollar sign, meaning it would be in our price range, and it said that it was a local hotspot you should not miss. We walked down to the restaurant only to discover that they were not lying when they said local hotspot. There was a line out the door! I went in and asked how long the wait. The owner, who was this rather large older man just looked at me and said just wait. We were not looking to wait all night, so I gave him my name for a reservation the following night. We walked back toward the Ponte Veccino and stopped at restaurant we had said looked cute earlier in the day.
The restaurant was called Bibo, not sure what that means in Italian but the cuisine was absolutely amazing. All of us decided to get the tourist menu for 15 euros, which included a first dish, a main dish, a vegetable, a desert, and a drink. It was totally worth it! I had the classic Italian minestrone soap, then chicken catcatori seasoned to perfection, for my vegetable I had sauteed spinach, and lastly for desert I had a roasted pear. It was phenomenal. I know it sounds like a lot of food, but in Italy the portion sizes are not out of control like they are in the U.S. Everything was wonderful.
The restaurant also happened to be right next to a church that was having an Easter Vigil. As we were eating, the whole congregation along with the priest came out of the church carrying candles and microphones singing. They continued down the street until we could not here them singing any more. After dinner we headed back to the hotel for the night.
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