Archive for 'Latest Episode'

episode #9 – Rome

Posted on 17. Oct, 2009 by Ryan.

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After a warm-up to wonderful Italy in Florence, we arrive at the great capital city of Rome, history’s epicenter in many ways.

The treasures of Rome are both ancient and modern and not to be missed by any European traveler. This city constantly stimulates the senses – sights, sounds, smells, and tastes.

With so many attractions to cover around Rome, we recommend four nights and five days here after arriving after a short train trip from Florence.

On this episode, Dean and I talk about:

  • initial tips and pointers to make the most of a visit to Rome
  • my favorite crazy Roman emperor
  • a walk around the ancient ruins of the Roman Forum and Colosseum, imaging those who once walked here long before
  • our favorite piazzas and other more modern sights around town
  • a trip over to Vatican City to check out Catholic Rome and the unbelievable St. Peters cathedral and Sistine Chapel
  • a possible day trip to Pompeii for the ambitious
  • gelato, pizza, and other tasty things to fatten up on in Rome

TRANSPORT IN
Trenitalia (Italian train system)

ACCOMMODATION
One Summer in Europe (Rome hostel and budget hotel search)

SIGHTSEEING
Colosseum
Roman Forum
Palatine Hill
Pantheon
Piazza Navona
Spanish Steps
Trevi Fountain
St. Peters Basilica
Sistine Chapel
Villa Borghese
One Summer in Europe (miscellaneous sightseeing activities in Rome)

TRANSPORT OUT
Trenitalia (Italian train system)
Jadrolinija (Croatian ferry system for Bari-Dubrovnik ferry)

After five intense days in Rome, most people need a break from the super-hectic atmosphere. Our next destination will be perfect for relaxation, the stunning Dalmatian coast of Croatia…

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episode #8 – Florence

Posted on 07. Sep, 2009 by Ryan.

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After several stops in France and Spain, we finally make our first appearance in Italy with a couple days in Florence, the home of the very important Renaissance movement.

Florence is an absolute must-see for the curious traveler, with its wealth of historic and cultural treasures. For a city of its modest size, one could argue that no other city has had more influence on today’s world than this Tuscan gem. Florence is a town where legends once lived and worked and you can still feel their greatness today.

Two nights and two busy days in Florence should be enough to see the top sights before moving on to the Italian capital of Rome.

In this episode, Dean and I talk about:

  • the amazing history and influence of Renaissance Florence on the world, unleashing the fullness of human potential around the world
  • visiting the famous cultural sites of Florence
  • the Stendhall Syndrome, a very common affliction in Florence
  • possible day trips near Florence within the Tuscan region
  • initial thoughts on our next destination, Rome

TRANSPORT IN
SNCF (French train system)
Trenitalia (Italian train system)

ACCOMMODATION
One Summer in Europe (Florence hostel and budget hotel search)

SIGHTSEEING
Duomo (famous Cathedral of Florence)
Giotto’s Tower (campanile outside the Duomo)
Baptistry (with the famous bronze doors)
Uffizi Gallery (great art museum)
Accademia (home of the statue of David by Michelangelo)
Piazza della Signoria (heart of city center)
Palazzo Vecchio (famous palace)
Ponte Vecchio (famous bridge over the Arno River)
Vasari’s Corridor
Boboli Gardens (quiet and scenic retreat across the river)
One Summer in Europe (miscellaneous sightseeing activities)

TRANSPORT OUT
Trenitalia (Italian train system)

Now that we have been properly introduced to Italy, we move on to the big prize, the eternal city of Rome. Join us as we discuss one of the most fantastic cities in the world….

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