The Camel Ride

We got to travel back in time while we were in Cairo.

The ruins of Pompeii

The ruins of Pompeii are really a step back in time. If you watch the HBO special of Rome it looks like it could have been filmed here - except for Pompeii is in ruins but it has all the frescoes and the look of a city back in the day. We had a tour guide that liked to call all the regular tourist barbarians - we weren't included because we were with him. The city is huge and you could wander for days. Some of the interesting facts - they collected urine (for tanning and other things) and it was even taxed, it had at least one bordello, the walls had graffiti and if you tip any guard he'll let you in a closed off area (it might help to carry an umbrella and talk like a guide). The ancient Romans knew how to live - maybe not a good way to die though.

Ravello and Almafi Coast

The town of Ravello is the perfect italian village. It has two very high end hotels that we wandered around and maybe someday we hope to return. The Amalfi Coast drive is amazing especially if you are not behind the wheel so you can enjoy the view.

Bracciano - I Do too.

If it was good enough for TomKat to get married in I thought it was worth seeing. It's a lovely medieval town - with all the stone walls and towers. The castle is fit for a king but the best story involves the queen. She would take on new lovers and when they left they took the secret exit that ended in a pit of sharp stakes. That's one way to end a relationship. We had a great time with Ivano our guide and saw all the pretty towns that surround Lake Bracciano. It's a place Italians go to get away from the big cities like Rome.

Barcelona the city that I love!

Barcelona the city that I love. I'll only mention my favorite things. It's known for it's Modernism architecture, the most famous are from the master Gaudi - his cathedral is still a work in progess. My favorite place is the Palau de la Musica Catalana. This little theater is a flower garden from the stained glass ceiling of the sun to the muses that surround the back of the stage to the mosaic flowered columns it is perfect. Another experience not to miss is the Spanish art of Flamenco it's more than just stamping, clapping and dancing. It started with passionate music and by passion I mean more than your dog died and your lover left you - whatever they are singing about is pretty intense almost scary. Las Ramblas is a street that you stroll down and see some amazing street performers and the market is the biggest fruit stand you'll find - you can even buy live chickens and birds here. Barcelona is just one of a kind.