Author: Ashleigh Page 3 of 92

Day Trip to Tuscany

On August 19, 2024

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As travel enthusiasts, we’re always chasing that next adventure, that hidden gem waiting to be uncovered. And in the rolling hills of Tuscany, we found a slice of Italy that ignited our senses and left us craving more. Join us as we uncork the rustic charm of this iconic wine region and share our tips for savoring every last drop.

With so many winery tours on offer, deciding where to go can feel daunting. We opted for a half-day tour through the revered Chianti Classico region, and it proved to be the perfect introduction to Tuscany’s full-bodied reds. If you’re a fan of robust, structured wines, you’ll be in heaven here. But if you prefer lighter fare, you may find these intense Sangiovese-based blends a bit too potent.

Chianti Classico is the beating heart of Tuscan winemaking, with strict regulations ensuring these wines maintain their distinctive character. Crafted with a minimum of 80% Sangiovese and up to 20% of other approved varieties, these reds offer a consistent backbone of cherry, leather, and earthy notes. Yet, each producer imparts their unique fingerprint, resulting in delightful variations on a classic theme.

While the tour focused on the region’s traditional offerings, we also had the chance to sample some of Tuscany’s famed ‘Super Tuscans.’ These IGT wines grant winemakers far more creative freedom, resulting in bold, innovative blends that defy convention. It was a thrilling contrast to the restrained elegance of Chianti Classico and a reminder of Tuscany’s boundless vinous treasures.No Tuscan wine tour would be complete without indulging in the region’s celebrated cuisine. While our tour didn’t officially include a meal, the generous ‘snack’ we received at the second winery was a feast fit for a nonna. Platters brimming with cured meats, artisanal cheeses, crusty breads, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar kept appearing, each more mouthwatering than the last. It was a masterclass in Italian hospitality and a testament to the deep-rooted traditions of this remarkable land.

One of the highlights was witnessing how expertly Tuscan wines and foods harmonize. We were guided through a tasting that involved sipping the winery’s olive oil, then the wine, then the two together. The interplay of flavors was revelatory, showcasing how the right pairings can elevate both elements to sublime new heights.

While our time in Tuscany’s wine country was all too brief, it left us thirsting for more. The scenic vistas, the warm hospitality, the layers of history and tradition – it’s a multisensory experience that lingers long after the final glass is drained. So grab your tasting notes and your sense of adventure – Tuscany’s vinous charms await. To book your tour of Tuscan Wine Country, check out Viator!

Thanks for stopping by! Check out our Go See Do Explore Podcast, available wherever you listen to podcasts. To read more about our Italian Adventure, check out our La Dolce Vita Trip Report. To read about some of our previous trips, visit my Trips Page. If you like my photos be sure to “like” my Facebook Page and follow me on Instagram! For my list of gadgets to make your travels easier, click here. To see inside my camera bag, check out my Gear Page.

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Wordless Wednesday: Duomo Doors

By Ashleigh

On August 14, 2024

In Wordless Wednesday

Duomo Doors

Exploring the Art and History of Florence

By Ashleigh

On August 12, 2024

In Travel

Florence at Night

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The city of Florence casts an enchanting spell from the moment you arrive. As we strolled through the charming Oltrarno neighborhood, our home base for a few blissful days, the Renaissance romance of this Tuscan jewel enveloped us. With its winding cobblestone lanes, vibrant piazzas, and architectural masterpieces around every corner, Florence beckons you to embrace la dolce vita and lose yourself in her timeless beauty.

Uffizi Gallery

No visit to Florence is complete without paying homage to her unparalleled artistic legacy. We started at the world-renowned Uffizi Gallery, a treasure trove of Renaissance art housed in the former offices of the powerful Medici family. Tuesdays offer a unique opportunity – the gallery remains open until 10 pm, allowing you to savor the masterpieces in relative tranquility as the crowds dwindle.

Michaelango's David Next, we experienced the awe-inspiring presence of Michelangelo’s David at the compact Accademia Gallery. Though photos cannot prepare you for the sculpture’s sheer monumentality, a guided tour provides invaluable context, enriching your appreciation for this Renaissance icon. Book your guided tour of the Accademia on Viator! Florence’s crown jewel is undoubtedly the magnificent Duomo complex. We marveled at the intricate marble facades, the famous baptistery doors, and the cavernous interior adorned with breathtaking frescoes. While the dome climb offers rewarding panoramic vistas, the experience of simply standing beneath Brunelleschi’s masterpiece is humbling enough.

Frescoes in Florence's Duomo

For a different perspective, we trekked up to the Piazzale Michelangelo at sunset (top). This hilltop piazza rewards with sweeping views of Florence’s famed terracotta rooftops and the iconic Duomo, providing the perfect vantage point to bid “arrivederci” to this enchanting city.

Duomo Complex

In between immersing ourselves in art and history, we indulged in Florence’s celebrated cuisine. The hearty ribollita soup, luscious wild boar ragù over pappardelle, and the legendary bistecca alla Fiorentina (enormous T-bone steak) left us utterly sated. Be sure to sample the unsalted Tuscan bread – a quirky tradition born from historic salt conflicts – and the vin santo dessert wine with almond cookies for dipping.

While Florence’s cultural riches are endless, her true charm lies in wandering aimlessly, getting delightfully lost amid her captivating Renaissance splendor. As the famous quote reminds us, “He who goes to Florence and does not see the Duomo, does not see Florence.” But those who embrace the city’s enchanting rhythm will experience the very essence of Tuscan magic.

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Day trip to Pompeii

By Ashleigh

On August 5, 2024

In Travel

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Peering into the haunting plaster casts of Pompeii’s tragic victims is like glimpsing into a grim snapshot of the past. In an instant, the thriving Roman city was silenced beneath a hellish blanket of ash and pumice when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD. As we wandered the archaeological ruins on our second day in Naples, the weight of this catastrophic event hung heavy in the air.

Yet amidst the somber reminders, Pompeii stands as a remarkable open-air museum, offering an unparalleled look into ancient daily life. Unlike other archaeological sites that morphed over time, Pompeii’s final hours were frozen in place, perfectly preserved until its rediscovery centuries later. Each building, cobblestone street, and household artifact paints a vivid picture of 1st century Roman culture.

Our archeologist guide regaled us with fascinating insights as we navigated Pompeii’s excavated ruins. Contrary to popular belief, the city wasn’t buried in molten lava but rather entombed in a thick blanket of volcanic debris. This allowed the remarkably intact structures and artworks to be gradually uncovered once rediscovered in the 1700s.

We learned that Pompeii’s early excavators rearranged and reconstructed unearthed structures – an approach that gave birth to modern archaeological principles. As we admired the reconstructed columns and frescoes, our guide pointed out which elements remained in their original positions and which they believe had been restored over time.

One of Pompeii’s most impressive engineering feats was its sophisticated plumbing system. The Ancient Romans had ingeniously constructed underground lead pipes to supply fresh water to the people. In fact, the very word “plumbing” derives from the Latin word “plumbum” for lead. Tragically, the Romans remained oblivious to the toxic effects of lead exposure. Our guide solemnly noted that with an average lifespan of 35 years, most Pompeii residents didn’t live long enough to suffer the consequences of lead poisoning.

If you’re planning your own pilgrimage to this frozen-in-time city, pack sunscreen, a hat, and a water bottle. The sprawling ruins offer little respite from the scorching Italian sun. We made the mistake of purchasing overpriced novelty hats outside the entrance and quickly regretted not preparing better. There is plenty of non-lead poisoned water flowing through the ancient city.

To avoid the hassles of the crowded Circumvesuviana train, we opted for the modern and air-conditioned Trenitalia regional rail from Naples to the Pompei Santuario station. From there, it was a short bus transfer and brief walk to the ruins’ entrance – all for around €9 per person. This affordable and comfortable route allowed us to bypass the train’s reputation for pickpockets while traveling in a modern, air-conditioned train.

As we begrudgingly tore ourselves away, I found myself longing to explore nearby Herculaneum – another tragic victim of Vesuvius’ wrath that very same day. Unlike Pompeii’s haunting plaster casts, Herculaneum’s denser entombment left more skeletal remains and artwork intact. But after the morning in Pompeii’s brutal sun, we needed a break. We will have to explore Herculaneum on a future trip to southern Italy!

If you would like to explore Pompeii during your time in Italy, I highly recommend a guided tour. The site is massive and there is so much to see, having an expert show you where to look is very helpful. You like history as much as I do, a tour with an archaeologist adds so much more information to your visit!

Thanks for stopping by! Check out our NEW Go See Do Explore Podcast, available wherever you listen to podcasts. To read more about our Italian Adventure, check out our La Dolce Vita Trip Report. To read about some of our previous trips, visit my Trips Page. If you like my photos be sure to “like” my Facebook Page and follow me on Instagram! For my list of gadgets to make your travels easier, click here. To see inside my camera bag, check out my Gear Page.

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One Day in Naples

By Ashleigh

On July 29, 2024

In Travel

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The rumbling metro, the chaotic streets, the aroma of sizzling pizza dough – Naples grabs you from the moment you arrive and doesn’t let go. This boisterous city lives life at its own frenetic pace, daring you to get swept up in the beautiful madness of it all. And that’s exactly what we did on our latest Italian adventure.

After dropping our bags at the Airbnb in Naples’ historic Spanish Quarter, we hit the streets for a free walking tour. Our local guide warned us – Naples proudly pushes back against Italy’s love of rules and order. As we wove through the jam-packed lanes of the city center, dodging Vespas and trying not to get separated, we saw exactly what he meant. This place has an infectious, slightly anarchic energy that gets under your skin in the best way.

Inside the Church of Gesù Nuovo

The tour took us to a fascinating juxtaposition of two churches. Separated by the Piazza del Gesù Nuovo, the Gothic and Baroque buildings are a study in contrasts. One is starkly unadorned while the other is an exquisitely ornate, active house of worship. We couldn’t resist joining the flow of tourists shaking the hand of the iconic statue of the local doctor who cured so many Neapolitans. Even during Mass, the church hums with life and visitor foot traffic. It’s a place of faith, history, and openness all intertwined.

But you can’t visit Naples without indulging in the food – specifically, the pizza. In a private class, a chef named Danielle taught us the ins and outs of making an authentic Neapolitan pie. We learned to masterfully stretch and toss the dough, creating perfect, pillowy discs for baking in blistering hot wood-fired ovens. The pride Danielle took in his craft was contagious as we watched our margherita pizzas emerge, the crust tantalizingly charred with those coveted leopard spots. You can book your own Neapolitan Pizza Class here!

My Neapolitan Pizza!

The real revelation, though, came in the form of the appetizers – a simple bruschetta made with local San Marzano tomatoes grown in the fertile volcanic soil of Mount Vesuvius, and a plate of piping hot zeppole, fried dough puffs that put doughnuts to shame. We happily devoured both while sipping cold beverages and chatting with our new pizza-making friends.

If you find yourself in Naples, be sure to indulge in a cuoppo – a paper cone overflowing with an assortment of tiny fried delicacies. Ours was filled with bite-sized rice balls, fried dough puffs, mini arancini, and other molten treats that defied description but delighted every taste bud. It’s the perfect street food for fueling you through Naples’ chaotic charm.

Naples may be rough around the edges, but that’s exactly what makes it so vibrant and unforgettable. It’s a city that lives life to the fullest, that celebrates simple pleasures like amazing food and good company. So go ahead and get swept up in the beautiful pandemonium – you may leave a little disheveled, but oh so satisfied.

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Wordless Wednesday: Mt. Etna Smoke

By Ashleigh

On July 24, 2024

In Travel, Wordless Wednesday

Smoke from Mt. Etna

Exploring Mt. Etna: Europe’s Most Active Volcano

By Ashleigh

On July 22, 2024

In Travel

Mt. Etna

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The mere mention of Mount Etna sparks visions of an erupting volcano – a fierce, untamed force of nature. As Europe’s most active volcano, it has been erupting for centuries, a reminder of the raw power simmering beneath our feet. But for the intrepid traveler, Mount Etna presents an irresistible challenge to come face-to-face with one of the world’s greatest natural wonders.

Getting up close and personal with an active volcano is no simple feat. The journey begins with a twisting drive that climbs ever higher, each turn revealing more of Etna’s magnificent stature. At the parking area, the real adventure starts with a ride on the soaring aerial tram that carries you over craggy lava fields. But that’s just the first ascent – next you’ll board a rugged 4×4 bus to conquer the upper slopes. Finally, you’ll disembark and trek by foot to the crater’s edge, feeling the heat and power radiating from the earth.

Explorers with a volcanologist on Mt. Etna

Standing at the precipice of Mount Etna’s smoldering caldera is a humbling and awe-inspiring experience. The ground itself seems to smolder underfoot as you gaze across a lunarscape of blackened lava flows. Nearby fumaroles belch steam and sulfurous gases, hinting at the fury contained within. Our guide casually mentioned finding fresh lava in the parking lot that morning – a stark reminder that this giant is very much awake.

For those who crave an even more visceral encounter, guided hikes led by vulcanologists (experts in the study of volcanoes) allow you to venture right up to the lava flows themselves, hardhat and all (above). Don’t be surprised if your adrenaline pumps a bit faster when the ground rumbles beneath your boots.

4x4 buses driving up Mt. Etna

A visit to Mount Etna is more than just your average tourist stop – it’s a chance to witness the incredible forces that shape our planet up close. From the panoramic views high above Sicily to the primal energy pulsing at the crater’s rim, this volcano offers a true adventure for the senses. So seize the opportunity to summit this fiery giant and experience the thrill of nature’s untamed spirit. The wonders of Mount Etna await the bold!

If you plan to visit Mt. Etna for yourself, you do not need to book anything in advance. Tickets for the cable car and 4×4 bus can be purchased at the ticket office in the main parking lot. The view from the end of the cable car is not great, so be sure to buy the ticket that includes the bus and the hike to get a true Etna experience! If you want to venture farther up the mountain, you can purchase your guided hike through Viator!

Standing in a crater on Mt. Etna

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Wordless Wednesday: Acireale At Night

By Ashleigh

On July 17, 2024

In Wordless Wednesday

Acireale at Night

Exploring Eastern Sicily

By Ashleigh

On July 15, 2024

In Travel, Wine Travel

Mediterranean View from Taormina

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From winding roads to volcanic vintages, our Sicilian adventure was a feast for the senses. This sun-drenched island at the toe of Italy’s boot captivated us with its contrasts – ancient ruins cloaked in modern grit, rugged coastlines giving way to sweeping vineyards, and a culinary heritage as bold as the very volcanoes that shape the land.

Our Sicilian exploration began with an “upgrade” to an SUV rental – a mixed blessing on the island’s narrow, twisting village lanes. As one local guide quipped with a smirk, “There are no rules” when driving here. We quickly learned to embrace the organized chaos, asserting our place in Sicily’s self-centered driving universe. Our itinerary took us from the eastern city of Catania along the fertile slopes of Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano. With our four-wheeled steed, we could freely veer from the tourist trail to uncover the island’s viticultural gems.

Vineyards at Palmento Costanza

The vineyards draped along Mount Etna’s formidable flanks produce wines of uncommon terroir. At Palmento Costanzo, gnarly old vines were trained in the ancient Greek albarello style on stubby “living stakes.” Their pre-phylloxera rootstocks, spared by Etna’s sandy volcanic soils, yield grapes with a storied pedigree.

At Nicosia, a more modern yet artisanal approach ruled. After tasting their stellar volcanic wines, the true showstopper arrived – a decadent spread of local charcuterie, cheeses, fruits, and breads that could sate an army. This was la dolce vita at its finest. When not indulging in Mt. Etna’s finest wines, we sampled Sicily’s coastal cuisine. Simple but sublime, our meals showcased the region’s bounty from air, land, and sea. We reveled in pistachio-studded delicacies, briny seafood fresh from the Mediterranean, and crisp fruity wines from Etna’s lava-enriched soils.

Aci Castello

In seaside Aci Castello, we marveled at the rocks beneath an imposing medieval fortification. Nearby Aci Trezza’s so-called “Cyclops Rocks” evoked Homeric legends. One humble trattoria in the hills served up a feast so authentic, the proprietor gently scolded us for not devouring every last morsel of her “forest cheese” – a unique, honey-laced cheese from the lush slopes of Etna. Even our jet-lagged late-night pizza delivery ranked among the best I’ve ever tasted, the blistered wood-fired crusts beckoning another slice.

Greek City under Catania We meandered through the cobblestone pathways and charming squares of the hilltop town of Taormina (top), we were transported to a bygone era filled with history and culture. From exploring the ancient Greek amphitheater offering panoramic vistas of Mount Etna to browsing the quaint local shops brimming with artisanal treasures, each moment was a discovery of Taormina’s captivating past. The tour not only provided a glimpse into the town’s rich heritage but also allowed us to savor authentic Sicilian cannoli and marvel at the architectural wonders that dotted our path. As we traced the footsteps of generations past, our walking tour of Taormina left an indelible mark, weaving together moments of awe and admiration for this timeless Sicilian gem. You can book your tour of Taormina on Viator!

We finished our Sicilian exploration by diving in Catania’s history. This seaside city’s historic core endured heavy bombardment during WWII, lending a weather-beaten charm to its baroque streetscapes. Below ground, a once-buried ancient Greek settlement – its ruins blackened by Etna’s volcanic stone – stood as a poignant monument to the layered history of this indomitable place.

As we reluctantly departed Catania’s bustling stazione, I reflected on the raw, passionate energy that coursed through every vignette of our Sicilian journey. From the feisty motorists to the sun-drenched vineyards to the soulful, soil-driven cuisine, Sicily seduced us with its fiery spirit. This beguiling island may be just a toe, but it deserves more than a mere dip into its depths.

Sicilian Antipasti

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An Afternoon in Paris

By Ashleigh

On July 8, 2024

In Travel

The Eiffel Tower and the Seine

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The City of Light unveiled her charms to us during a whirlwind layover in Paris. Though our time was short, we seized the opportunity to experience some of the French capital’s most renowned landmarks on foot.

After landing at Charles de Gaulle Airport, we effortlessly navigated the metro system into the city center. Pro tip: make sure your phone’s operating system is fully updated if you plan to use transit apps during your travels. Having to update our phones before utilizing transit slowed us down during our already limited time. The metro whisked us away, our anticipation building with every stop closer to our first destination – the iconic Eiffel Tower.

Glimpsing the wrought-iron lattice piercing the skyline, we hurried toward the famous monument. Though the surrounding gardens were fenced off in preparation for the 2024 Olympics, the tower itself offered ample opportunity for photos. We opted to admire its grandiose architecture from the ground rather than ascending to the top, content to bask in its majesty from the ground.

Arc de Triomphe

We continued our walking tour to the Arc de Triomphe, the imposing triumphal arch in the center of the Place Charles de Gaulle. We happened upon a military ceremony unfolding at the base, though its purpose eluded our research efforts. Observing the soldiers added to the enchantment of our short day in Paris.

We continued walking to the Champs-Élysées, this famed boulevard lined with luxury boutiques, cafés and theaters. We meandered along, admiring the Parisian ambiance, until arriving at the Place de la Concorde. Here, the iconic Egyptian obelisk stood sentry, though much of the area was cordoned off for Olympic preparations.

Louvre Gardens

Continuing through the courtyard of the Louvre, we caught a tantalizing glimpse of the museum’s iconic glass pyramids before pressing on toward the River Seine. Our wanderings brought us to the Île de la Cité, one of two natural islands in the river. This small patch of land held particular significance, as it offered an up-close perspective of the beloved Notre Dame Cathedral while it is undergoing extensive renovations in the wake of the 2019 fire.

Construction on Notre Dame as of June 2024

Seeing the progress made in rebuilding of the iconic church was both heartening and surreal. The storied cathedral symbolizes Paris’s resilience and determination to preserve its heritage for future generations. We felt privileged to capture this moment in its lengthy restoration through our lenses.

Our Parisian self-tour concluded on the Île Saint-Louis, a slender island in the Seine just east of the Île de la Cité. As day slipped into evening, we sat at a cafe, raising a glass to the marvels we had witnessed on our that day. Though we had merely skimmed the surface of Paris’ treasures, the afternoon kindled a longing to return. If you are looking for a guided tour for your time in Paris, look no further than Viator!

Thanks for stopping by! Check out our NEW Go See Do Explore Podcast, available wherever you listen to podcasts. Check out our La Dolce Vita trip report to read more about our Italian Adventure. To read about some of our previous trips, visit my Trips Page. If you like my photos be sure to “like” my Facebook Page and follow me on Instagram! For my list of gadgets to make your travels easier, click here. To see inside my camera bag, check out my Gear Page.

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