Marvelous World!

Well, we're back, safe and sound from 17 days in Italy. It was a great trip that will ne'er be forgotten. The following is a summary, if you're interested:

Rome for three days, stayed at the home of Mario Bova, retired Italian Ambassador to Japan and Albania, along with his spouse, Katerina. Wonderful home!
Toured ancient ruins of Rome, including the Colosseum and Pantheon.

Toured the Vatican Gardens, the Sistine Chapel, and heard Pope Francis in St. Peter's Square (there's more to that to be told yet)

Puglia  Stayed at the home of Mario's brother, John Franco and his spouse, Juliana. Participated in the "maiden voyage" of a new business of touring in Italian classic cars throughout the countrysides of southern regions of Italy. Road in Fiats, Alfa Romeos, and some others I can't remember at the moment.

Amalfi Coast for four days. Absolutely Beautiful! Stayed in a flat overlooking the Mediterranean, in a residence recently vacated by Kevin Kostner (He left the rooms in great shape and by the way, the owner didn't charge us a thing!)

Took a boat out to Capri, had lunch, Chris, Tim and Ellie swam in the blue Mediterranean waters.

Venice Two nights...It was okay, but not our cup of tea. However, went to a great concert of Vivaldi's Four Seasons at St. Stefano Church. Spent time in St. Marc's Square, toured St. Marc's Basilica, and had some great food.

Verano Move on to the wonderful city of Verano for one night on our way to Alps. This was one of our favorite cities...clean, friendly and again, great food.
While here we went to Juliette's castle and courtyard. Did you know that Shakespeare's play was loosely based on history? There's a balcony that is regarded as Juliette's but,again, who knows?

The Dolemites (the Italian Alps) Stayed in the Alps just above the quaint Italian village of Luserna. (More also to be shared about that). The place we stayed was Compo Malga, a lodge that mostly hosts cross-country skiers and bicyclists. We hiked and enjoyed magnificent scenery! 

More will be shard about all of this. We're glad to be back but sure had a great time!