Hairspray!!!

I really, really, really like this movie. I am going tonight to see it for the 5th time. I can't really explain why I like so much. There is great music and dancing. Everyone in the cast can sing and the comedy is great. I like the John Waters' touches. Also Zac Efron who plays Link Larkin with the blue eyes and dark hair, is gorgeous. I found the New Line Cinemas online shop and am probably going to buy the two Link themed jewelry sets and and both posters. This is currently my favorite musical. All the characters are great and I love whoever did the casting. Michelle Pfeiffer was sensational as Velma Von Tussle, she does evil very well. Allison Janney was also an excellent choice, as she is great in character parts. James Marsden plays the smart, but over the top crooner very well. Christopher Walken's (Wilbur Turnblad) character is very similar to his character in Blast From the Past, which is probably why he was cast. Zac Efron finally got to stretch his vocal cords and really sing. He also gave a fabulous performance, mixing humble, and conceited well. Amanda Bynes gave a performance that was completely different than usual, as she normally plays the outgoing girls. But she did the shy, lollipop-eating girl well. John Travolta played a girl what more needs to be said. It was of the strangest, and interesting things I've ever seen. Queen Latifah gave a fabulous singing, acting, and dancing performance as Motormouth Maybelle. She was one of the more meaningful characters. Brittany Snow played the spoiled, but not quite evil girl to perfection. She was evil, but only because she was raised that way and in the end of the movie you can see her start to change. Elijah Kelley is perfect as Seaweed, because he has the voice and the moves and the perfect attitude. Nikki Blonsky rules the show, with out her the movie would have nowhere near as good.

On a side note I am going to Chicago and Baltimore for two weeks. I am seeing Wicked in Chicago and I will post about that when I get back.

I looked it up and Hairspray is playing on Broadway until March 2008 (at least), so we might go for my 16 birthday.

P.S. I did buy the Link Larkin jewelry sets, as well as the original Hairspray, the book about the current movie and The Musical book (which contains the musical, the lyrics and the music). All that stuff is getting shipped to my grandparents' house. I am going to buy both of the posters when I get back as well. Stay tuned for what I think of Wicked.

That's embarrassing

My mom has uploaded my videos from my trip (until my video camera broke) to YouTube. Just click on the link and you should find 24 videos. Most of them are very short.

She thinks the best one is here.

She's also uploaded all 717 of my pictures to Kodak Gallery. The link should take you right there (if it works right . . . )

Greece pics

Some pics of Greece:

Olympia, Greece

Where the Olympic torch is lit

Entrance to 1st Olympic stadium

Epidaurus

Parthenon

Hephaestus' Temple

Parthenon

Aegina

Italy pics

A few pics from Italy:

Venice

Venice

Leaning Tower of Pisa

Florence

Assisi

Coliseum

Roman Forum

Coliseum

Coliseum

Trevi Fountain

Convent

Our room at the convent

Pompeii

Pompeii

France Pics

Just a small sampling of my France pics.

The Eiffel Tower

The Seine from the Eiffel Tower

Town Hall

The Sacre Coeur

The Hall of Mirrors at Versailles

The gardens at Versailles

My home stay room

Rouen

Rouen

The Louvre

People to People European Odyssey journal, 07/12/07

Day 19.

Today we woke up at 6:00 am. I am so glad we are going home, people are getting on my last nerve. Then we got on the bus at 7:30 to go to Aegina. It was a 2 hours ferry ride. I wrote in my journal and listened to music. After the ferry, we got on a bus which took us to our "beach." The "beach" was not very beachlike and was infested with sea urchins. The water was rough and most of the beach had rock walls. There was all sorts of wood crap and trash in the water. I didn't go swimming. I had 3 ice creams. A bunch of people stepped on sea urchins, seeming all from our delegation. Carris was getting his picked out for at least one hour. Mrs. Berry still has spines in her hand and foot. Josh, William, Shelbey W. and couple more people also stepped on sea urchins. The beach wasn't all that safe. Then we had lunch but they wouldn't let us keep our pop bottles. After lunch, we took the bus back into the town and they set us free with 2 hours and 45 minutes to shop. I got six necklaces, a painting and a hat. The painting is for my grandparents but I'm not sure they will like it so I might not give it to them. I also bought chocolate. Then we got back on the ferry and I wrote in my journal some more. Then we got back to the hotel and had dinner. Half of the delegation used my aloe vera. Then we did our program evaluations adn had a party thing for Hannes. Now I have to go pack and shower and get my aloe back from Amber. Good night!

p.s. As this is my last time writing I want to close my thoughts. I am glad to be going home. I am tired of being invisible. I am the only person who made no real friends and it shows. I am so glad to be going back to my world. Goodbye.

People to People European Odyssey journal, 07/11/07

Day 18.

Today we got up at 6:30 am. Then I ate a quick breakfast and we walked to the tram. Once on the tram, we had an hour ride. I was sitting next to a wall and I kept falling asleep. Sierra and Kimberly kept waking me up. Sierra blew in my face and Kimberly kept saying my name. Finally, I stopped falling asleep and was just resting my eyes and every time they 'woke' me up, I just glared at them.

After the tram, we started our city walk. First we saw the guards in front of the Parliament building (?). We got to see them do their little dance change thing. Then we headed to the Acropolis. It was hot, but amazing. I am completely confounded by the ancient Greeks. The Parthenon is beautiful but seeing it like that just makes me want to see it the way it was. Just once. After the gorgeous beautiful Parthenon, we went down into the Plaka and went shopping. I bought presents for Lily and Jack because I just realized that I was gonna see them 2 weks after I got back. Then we went to lunch at the Hard Rock Cafe, Athens. It was ok, the food was a little overcooked and I managed to spill my french fries all over the floor. Oh well. Then I went shopping again and got a blue purse for Aunt Nancy. I also got a frap from Starbucks. Then we went back to the hotel and as soon as we got there, we left for our dance class. When we got there, we were divided into 2 groups. My group went with the nice female instructor. We learned 4 dances adn were sweting all over each other. I am probably not going to remember the dances tomorrow. Then we went to dinner and it was the best food of the entire trip. Everyone kept spilling the water on themselves. After dinner, we went back to the Dora Straton theater to watch a performance. It was interesting and boring at times. Overall I liked it but I like current dancing more. After that we went back to the hotel, I called my mom, took a shower and am going to bed. Good night!

p.s. After wanting to see Greece and the Parthenon for so long, actually seeing it was a bit of a shock. I didn't believe I was there until after I left. I'm still amazed.

People to People European Odyssey journal, 07/10/07

Day 17.

Today we got up at 7 am. We got up, had breakfast and got on the bus. We drove to the oldest theater in Greece, Epidorus. It was very interesting. I think it says a lot about the ancient Greeks that they built a theater we still use today. I took pictures and then I had Joy take a picture of me. Then we went to a ceramic gallery/studio. I bought a coffee cup, 2 dinner bells, 2 busts of Artemis. Then we drove back to the hotel and had lunch. After lunch, we drove to Athens. We went to our hotel. I am rooming with Meg and Janessa. We had an hour before we had to go help the sea turtles, so my roommates and I went swimming in the hotel pool. After swimming, I called my mom. She thought it was funny how excited I was to actually be in Athens. We had a good long talk. After talking to Mom, we went to go help the sea turtles. We were 20 mins early so we went and swam for about 15 mins (I only waded) and I collected rocks. Then we went to the sea turtle rescue center. We saw a presentation/video on turtles and how hard it is for them because of humans. Then we went and played a game with stuffed turtles that Williams was being way too competitive about. Following the game, we went and looked at the hurt turtles. They were all so cute especially Carolina, the smallest turtle they have. Then we went to dinner at the hotel. But first we had to cross the highway to get back to the hotel and it was entertaining because a couple of people almost got hit and there were 3 people who would always run across during the first available space. After dinner, I went back up to the room and called my mom again. When we hung up, I turned on the TV. I was flipping through the channels and I thought I saw a window in the Halliwell Manor. So I had to wait for the commercial break during to be over to see if it actually was Charmed. It was! I watched Charmed in Greece! I called my mom and left a message to tell her. It was really cool. Then my roommates and I watched What a Girl Wants with Amanda Bynes and went to bed. Good night!

p.s. I can write Leo in Greek. I know this because of the subtitles on Charmed. I still have to get presents for people.

People to People European Odyssey journal, 07/09/07

Day 16.

Today I woke up at 8 am. (I forgot to say that after I finished my ournal, I went up on the top deck and found everyone dancing so I joined them. It was fun. Then Kim and I ran back to our room and made it a minute before curfew. Then Kim proceeded to break a glass. After we cleaned it up, we talked a little and then went to bed.) I woke Breanna up at 8:20 am, like she told me to. But she started the day with a bad attitude. Kim got up at 8:30 am.

We had to be at breakfast at 8:45 and Kim and I had to run to make it. Breanna was late. We had bread, packaged toast, cake and a hard boiled egg. Then I went out on the deck with Joy. We sat around and talked for a little while. Then at 9:45 am, I went in to pack up my suitcase to make sure I had everything I did that and then tried to help Kim curl her hair without a mirror. It didn't work. At 10:30 am, I went back on the deck with Joy and at 11:00 I brought my suitcase out to the lobby with everyone else. We sat there for about 45 mins. During that time, we met a Canadian girl. When she saw recognized my necklace, I instantly slipped into Charmed mode and she knew what I was talking about but everyone else just looked confused. They had never seen me do that and I think it freaked them out. Then it took us like 1/2 hour to get off the boat. Once we did, we got on the bus. I missed Nicola's bus. The bus was gross, it looked like it hadn't been cleaned or repaired in years. There was trash and gum in all the ashtrays and it smelled bad. Plus there was no AC. We drove 1 1/2 hours to Olympia. I got to see Zeus and Hera's temples. They were amazing, even by the ruins you can tell that. And even though I got to see them . . . I didn't really get to see them. I want to see them the day after they were completed to get the full effect. I couldn't wipe the smile off my face after seeing them. Then we got back on the bus. We drove for 2 hours and then stopped at a gas station where I called my mom. She told me that my cards can't be used at an ATM, so now I'm screwed. I still have to buy stuff for Steve and my grandparents and i want to buy more stuff for Erin and my mom. I now have to try and beg someone to switch me 80 euros for one of those cards.

Then we got back on the bus for another 1 1/2 hours. By the way, it turns out that I'm allergic to some of the flowers out here or something because I have been sneezing and sniffling all day. Joy to the world!!

Then we arrived at the hotel where we found another group of People to People people. Adriana said, "I don't like People to People people unless they're my People to People people." It was great. (I don't know if I already mentioned this, but Adriana is homophobic.)

Then we went to dinner. We had quiche and then meat patties and french fries. After dinner, I went to bed. (I can't remember what else I did.) I was rooming with Julie and Kimberly.

People to People European Odyssey journal, 07/08/07

Day 15.

Today we woke up at 6:15 am. I had one of the best sleeps on the entire trip. We had bread, cheese and turkey for breakfast. I am so sick of bread, it isn't even funny. Then we got on the bus and drove to Pompeii. I was really excited. I got even more excited when I realized that our guide didn't have a strong accent. Antonio, our guide, took us to see all sorts of things from gorgeous frescoes to brothels. (By the way, yesterday at the convent, we had really good views of Vesuvius off our balcony. I took pics.)

The only thing I was bummed about was that we didn't get to see more people. I learned that Pompeii erupted in 1944. I didn't know that. I thought Zeus' (Jupiter's) temple was interesting. Then our guide took us to some shell factory and I almost bought a necklace but I decided it was out of my range. Then we had 40 minutes of free time, most of which I spent trying to find an ATM to see if it works. Then we got on the bus for 5 hours. I sat next to Joy because Hannes stole her seat. I slept for most of the first 2 hours and then I tried to use the ATM at the first rest stop but the card slot was jammed. At the second rest stop had no ATM. Then we got dropped off by the bus and got on the ferry. It's huge and its rooms are relatively nice. Then we had spaghetti and salad for dinner. Then we went up on the deck and wrote in our journals. (Earlier there was an American movie playing and I was watching it with this 6 or 7 year old Greek girl.) Now I am gonna turn this in to Mr. Weekley and go back to my room. Good night!

p.s. I felt really comfortable in the convent. I liked our view and I loved the simplicity of the room. I want to talke to my Mommie. I miss her.

People to People European Odyssey journal, 07/07/07

Day 14.

Today we got up at 7 am. We drove ________ to Mount Vesuvius. It was about 1:30 pm (?). I was shadowing again because I still hadn't finished my journal. I had to sit next to Carris. We had ravioli and cake for lunch. Then the bus did the rest of the incredibly frightening drive up to the mountain. When we got there, we had to hike up the rest of the mountain to the top. It was hard and I was not at all prepared for it. After I had huffed and puffed my way up the mountain, I chilled with Joy, while Carris hiked the rest of the way around the crater. We hung out at the gift shop at the top for like an hour before we hiked back down. Once down, I paid 20 cents (euros) to brush off my shoes. Julie spent 6 of her last 10 euros. I liked the mountain but all my pics look like a pile of dirt so that was a little bit of a bummer.

Then we got back on the bus and drove down the road. It was freakin' me out because we were very top heavy and I could fell it around the hairpin turns. Once we got down, we drove into Naples and went to visit a nun. That was interesting. I thought it was funny that the nun liked the movie, Sister Act. She also told us some interesting things about being a nun like that there are stages and something about perpetual vows. It sounds like getting married to god. After talking to the nun, we got on the bus to drive to the hotel that wasn't a hotel. We were staying at a convent!! I was rooming with Taygan, Julie and Isabel.

For dinner we had pasta. It was good. A lot of people were freaked out by the fact that we were staying in a convent. Julie was upset that the leaders had lied because someone had told her that we were staying in a hotel. The convent inspired some of the strangest and dirtiest conversations of the entire trip. My table ended up talking about devil worshippers.

After dinner, we all went back to our rooms. I felt like the invisible woman. I was completely ignored. I asked Taygan to use her phone and she said she felt bad but she had used it over 20 minutes and I couldn't use it. But then she let Julie use it for 15 minutes and when Amber asked to use it Taygan handed it to her with no questions asked. I was getting really pissed off. Good night!

p.s. We all got our passports stamped at the top of Vesuvius. Nicola got hit by a BMW and he got the ticket because he wasn't from Naples and the other guy was.

People to People European Odyssey journal, 07/06/07

Day 13.

Today I got up at 5 am. We had a really bad boxed breakfast. I didn't eat much. I have to shadow Joy but she hangs out with the people I like so it wasn't too bad. We went to the Vatican. The best part was just being in the Vatican. My audio guide didn't work so I had no idea what I was looking at, plus I was hungry and tired. Once outside the Vatican, everyone got food. Joy bought me a tomato and cheese panini ( I now owe her 7 euros).

Then we went to St. Peter's Square. Joy wanted to try to get in the Basilica so we waited in line. We got in and spent 20 minutes in there. It was huge. It looked like it had taken a long time and a lot of work to complete. I thought it was kinda cool. But we couldn't remember/figure out where the last pope was buried.

Then we took the roundabout route to lunch. Where we had rice and then ice cream sandwiches. We got on the Metro and rode it to the Spanish Steps. We were then split into groups and then the leaders said be here by 5:30, go. We had find 3 places on the way but it was still odd. We went to the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon and some random square thing. We got the end point 1 1/2 hours early so we just hung out around the square. There were a bunch of us hanging out together and this one man kept trying to hit us up. Finally, Amber got mad and started telling the man to leave or she would get the cops. He still wouldn't leave so Julie pulled out a one and tried to get him to sell a 3 euro bracelet for 1 euro. Then he left and never came back.

After that we had a short walk to dinner. I sat with Meg, Kimberley and Shelby M. I was wearing a white shirt and so of course being me, I spilled pizza on my shirt. So about halfway through the meal, I got my Tide To Go out of my purse and was blotting my shirt. I looked up to see one of the waiters staring at me so I said, "Hi!" He walked away and came back a 1/2 minute leter with a spray can in his hand. He tried to hand it to me but I didn't know what it was or what he wanted so I just looked at him, confused. So he took the cap off and sprayed the stain which happened to be on my chest. I was so shocked that I just fell over laughing which made everyone else at the table laugh. He left the spray and walked away. Later we felt bad for laughing but what could we do about it. We also talked about Scooby Doo, Powderpuff Girls and Pokemon. Then we rode the bus back to the hotel and I spent the rest of the night in my room but that was okay because we ordered internet. Good night.

Katy got accused of drinking today which I think is horrible because she is not that kind of person.

People to People European Odyssey journal, 07/05/07

Day 12.

Today we had to be up at 5:15 am. And you know that was tons of fun. Then we had a four hour drive to Rome. The second 1/2 hour was a no headphone 1/2 hour and so I talked with Kimberly. She has 10 brothers and sisters. And last year her mom was on meth, but now she is getting help. At least that's what she told me but with teenagers, you never know. Then we had to go up and introduce our seat partner to the bus so I did with basic things like favorite color and such.

We got to Rome an hour early so we walked around the Coliseum and Forum. Then we went to lunch and there was seafood rice, fish & chips and lemon italian ice. I thought it was a yummy lunch but a lot of people don't like fish. After lunch we took a tour of the Coliseum and the part of Rome I was interested in but the walkie talkie guide things were hard to use so I stopped paying attention and just looked around. It was really, really hot. I just wanted to sit. After the tour, we had like an hour and a half of free time. Julie, Tory, Taygan, Isabel, Joy and I just sat in the shade at the meeting place which was up on a hill that overlooked the Coliseum and the Forum. It was cool. We had some good conversations about serious and silly things. Joy and I even talked about Kevin.

Then we went to dinner. It was a decent walk. We had bruschetta with tomatoes. It was really good and then chicken with salad and gelato (mine was vanilla with chunks of something yummy in it). Then we took 1 1/2 hour bus ride to our hotel. The first thing I did was call my grandma to wish her a Happy Birthday but she wasn't home so I left the message with my Papa. Then I went down to the front desk to see if my money cards were there. They weren't so I ran upstairs freaking out to call my mom. I talked to her, it turns out she sent it to the next hotel so I won't get it until Saturday. Oh well. She did say my masks arrived from Venice and that she liked them so that was good. Then she had to get back to work. I am rooming with Katriel and Julie. They are both really nice and I feel bad for Julie, she misses her boyfriend a lot. Katriel is great when you get her away from Torie but when they're together, they're evil. (Don't split them up, I don't think Katy could deal with that right now, she might snap.)

I set the TV alarm for 5:30 am tomorrow but I don't know how to turn it off so it will be interesting to see what happens. I also got told off for not keeping up with my journal (right now, it's 7/7). I have to shadow and I have an earlier curfew. Oh well. I'm gonna try and catch up. Good night!

p.s. I really miss my mom!

People to People European Odyssey journal, 07/04/07

Day 11.

Full On!! Ugggh!

Today was our full on day. We started out on a tennis court playing one round of Giants, Wizards and Elves. Then we went into a gym full of loud music and loud energetic people. Once in the gym, we played all sorts of ridiculous games. I was too mortified to have fun. Then we got sorted into groups. My leader was a guy named Jono. I found him and all the other Full On people annoying. First, we went to get gelatto. Joy bought mine for me. I owe her 3 euros. Then we went into the square in front of the church and played a game they call the maze. It's the game I played in health and won. It good 20 minutes including 6 penalties. Then we walked over to the park and did Trust exercises. They were lame compared to the activities at basecamp. Then we had lunch at th epark and talked about random stuff, like accents and Grey's Anatomy.

After lunch, we started toward the castle we were supposed to repell off of. But before we got even halfway there, we found out that there was wind and lightning, so we couldn't go. Instead we went back to the square and played games. We played Big Booty and Little Sally Walker. Then we went back to the gym. Soom after we got there, the DJ put on the Macarena and 75% of the people were doing it. It was a ton of fun. Then we did YMCA and the Electric Slide.

Then they showed us the 3 board breaking techniques. We practiced all 3 and I decided I didn't want to do it at all. As soon as I told Jono, he took me outside to try to build my confidence up or something. He said the typical "you can do it" crap. I'm not Bob the Builder. I told him why I didn't want to do it (because of my cerebral palsy) and he acted like he could tell if I was able to do it. He's not a doctor and he doesn't know my medical history. What does he think he is, magical? Anyway, finally bowing to pressure, I did it but now I am glad I did so it's all okay. I ket the wood, but Jono took it and wrote really big on one side, "My friend your the bomb Jono" (sic). I might have everyone sign it just to make me feel better because I didn't really like him and he wasn't my friend. Later, we had to partner off and he linked arms with me and wouldn't let go. It was creepin' me out.

Then we left the Full On people and had a free hour. I went with Adriana and Ben to get water and ended up borrowing 4 euros from Weekley to get chocolate gelatto. Then we drove back to the same gross hotel as last night. I spent most of tonight on the balcony talking to other people. It was fun. I surprised Rocky by knowing what astral projection was (see, Charmed does come in handy). Now I am going to go to bed. Good night!

p.s. We were throwing Nutella at the boys from my balcony and Meg threw one it ricocheted off the wall and Ethan caught it. It was cool. And please don't get us in trouble. ('puppy dog eyes')

People to People European Odyssey journal, 07/03/07

Day 10.

Today was a good breakfast day. There was a good amount and variety. There was Nutella. I took like 20 little packets and put them in my purse. It was fun. I was constantly eating Nutella all day. Then we went to the Florence American Cemetery. It was amazing. I took a couple of videos of me mostly talking. At the time I was mad at Doe for disrespecting the American soldiers. I cried more than once. After we wandered around the cemetery on our own, we met up with a guy whose job it is to help people find their family. He told us a bunch of facts about the cemetery as well as some stories that I liked. I think that would be a cool job to have. I wonder if I could apply just for that job in the army or whatever.

Then we drove into Florence (which is where my character "lived" during the Renaissance Fair in 7th grade) and had lunch just off the government square with all the statues. I sat w/Kimberly and Sierra and talked very little. The food was really good. I think it might have been chicken. Then we went to the Academia and met our tour guide. We waited in the heat for over an hour and then finally got in. David was so much bigger than I thought. And I never really realized before that he was David of the David & Goliath storyline. His pupils are hearts. I was excited to see David and I could actually understand the guide which was cool. After David, she showed us the important sites of the city.

Then we drove to Assisi. It was a really long drive and the hotel was the worst one yet. Of course, because Doe had made me angry earlier, I was rooming with her. Then it was time for dinner. Dinner was good. There were french fries. Doe was nice and kinda interesting to talk to. We talked about a lot of things from boyfriends to schooling. Then I did laundry. That was an adventure. It took forever. I had to wash and rinse my socks, underwear, shirts and pants. And then I had to wring out and hang up everything. But now I have to go to bed. Goodnight!

p.s. There was a swimming pool and everyone had balconies as well.

There is no working phone or computer. You have no idea how annoying that is.

People to People European Odyssey journal, 07/02/07

Day 9.

Today we went to a transport camp and museum in Carpi, Italy. We had a guide that had a really thick accent and she was hard to understand. We went to the museum first and at first I tried really hard to understand her. But since I was tired, I quickly stopped paying attention. It was a bummer that everything was in Italian because normally I would have just read the stuff instead of listening. Then we took a short drive to the actual camp. We had the same guide there as well and at first I tried to understand because I really wanted to know what she was saying because I was really interested. But then when I couldn't understand her, I got bored and started wandering around the room, looking at the pictures and pretending I could read Italian. I ended up standing away from the crowd (because it was too hot to stand in a group like that) and swinging my arms back and forth (to cool down). Just as the guide was wrapping up in that room and getting ready to move outside, Mrs. Berry comes over and tells me off for dancing and not paying attention. I guess the first was true even though I denied it but I was dancing? I really didn't notice that. Apparently I have more skills than I thought. By the time the tour was over it was noon, so we went to lunch. For lunch we had packed breadsticks, rice.

And after lunch, everyone had to go to the bathroom. I have to tell you, all the bathrooms were designed with a male in mind. There was no toilet, let alone a seat. You just had to squat over a porcelain hole in the ground. It was so much fun! ('rolls eyes') Later I heard Jaime say, "I don't know how to squat so I just didn't go." How do you not know how to squat? Isn't that just instinct?

Then we got back on the bus and drove to the Leaning Tower of Piza. It was interesting. I liked it. I walked around with Julie, Isabel, Taygan and Tory. Taygan bought a lighter for her brother. Isabel bought a plaque. Julie threw a fit when Taygan, Isabel, Tory and I lay down on the ground in front of the Leaning Tower to take a picture. It was very entertaining. We only got to spend an hours there before we were piled back on the bus. Then we went to the hotel. I found out that I was rooming with Sierra and then it was time for dinner. We had mashed potatoes and pork. For dessert, there were ice cream sandwiches. Then I went back to the room and Sierra and I had several long fun conversations. I really could imagine being friends with her long-term. I could see her hanging out with my best friends and I and getting all our weird jokes. Well, sleep time. Good night!

******* I forgot how to draw stars (doodles).

People to People European Odyssey journal, 07/01/07

Day 8.

Today was interesting to say the least. I woke up all by myself at 6 am and Adriana woke soon after. We talked until 6:30 am, when Weekley banged on the door waking everyone up. We got up and dressed and proceeded to walk through 28 cars to get to the dining car. There we had an insubstantial breakfast of bread and more bread. After breakfast was over, we rode the train for another 2 1/2 hours and then got off in Venice. Venice was amazing. We did so much because we were only there for one day. First we walked to San Marco Square. That is where the Church of St. Marc's is. Then Taygan, Julie, Tory, Isabel, Doe and I went into a mask shop that shipped all over the world. Taygan and Isabel each bought a mask but I by far spent the most money, by spending 95 euros total including 25 euros shipping. Then we met back up at the square. From the square, we went to the Grand Canal and rode a gondola. I was in a boat with Taygan, Lauren, Jaime, Josh and Breanna. I was taking video and so I got some of the conversation. (Teenagers are random.) Then we went to lunch. They served us pasta, chicken and gelatto. We met the tour guide in the Squary of Sweet Maria. She showed us all around Venice and we ended up at the glass factory. This really buff dude made a vase and then a horse. It was good and he said no good because the glass had been used before. Then we went into the showroom and he showed us how strong the glass is. I bought an expensive vase for my mom. Then we had another hour of free time during which the ATM ate my card. So I have no money until at least Tuesday. Then we walked to a boat, took that to the train, rode that to the bus and the bus took us to our hotel. Katriel is my roommate again. She wasn't very happy (not 'cause I was her roommate but because she wasn't with her friends.) We couldn't figure out how to turn the lights on. Finally Shelbey W. showed us that you had to stick you key in the slot and leave it there for the lights to stay on. Katriel left with Torie and went and hung out. After they left, I got in the shower. About 3 mins into my shower, someone started banging on the door and I ignored it. About 10 minutes later, there was more banging and this time, it didn't stop. So I got out of the shower with conditioner still in my hair, left the shower running, grabbed a towel and answered the door. It was Adrianna and Shelbey, looking for Katy. After telling them she wasn't here and I didn't know where she was, I finished my shower. I am going to bed now. Good night!

I learned an interesting fact about Torie and Katriel from Lauren.

Lauren is the greatest. She's so random and funny. She is also really passionate about everything.

People to People European Odyssey journal, 06/30/07

Day 7.

Today I got up at 6:30 am, because we had to leave the house by 8 am. For breakfast, I had cornflakes (I have never been so glad to see cornflakes in my life, that chocolate cereal was really gross). Then my host family drove all 3 of us to the meeting and when we got there, we gave them our Thank You notes. Mine was the only one on stationery (he, he) and I meant every word I wrote. The only problem is it is in English and my host family doesn't read or speak English.

Then we got on the bus and drove 2 1/2 - 3 hours to the Louvre. When we got there, Kelly and Lauren were freaking out because they took some class that made them really passionate about art. I corrected Taygan because she was saying Louvre wrong and she didn't like it. I had a cheeseburger for lunch. I had to take the top bun off because it had ketchup on it. Then I got abandoned by the group I ate luch with so I hung out with Breanna, Jaime, Shelby W. and Amber. Then we went in and did this weird quiz thing that didn't work because they wouldn't let us in without a ticket. I found most of the answers using the book.

After that, we went in and saw the Mona Lisa, Coronation of Napolean, Winged Victory, Venus de Milo and sever other important works. Was it just me or could I take photos last year because this year cameras were prohibited in rooms with paintings? Then we went to where the bus was supposed to pick us up and waited for like an hour. Then we found out that our bus was stuck behind a parade so we go on the Metro. When we got off, the bus driver met us and walked like 5 miles which none of us were prepared for. Then we stopped at a restaurant. All they served was quiche. Apparently Taygan really doesn't like quiche and she was going on and on and on about it and it was making it really hard for me to eat cause I happened to like mine. So I told her to be quiet and she jumped down my throat. She was all "I know you like being bossy, but I can complain all I want." I then tried to explain to her why I said it and she wouldn't have it. I apologized to her after dinner but she just kinda blew me off. I don't know if she is still made at me or not. After dinner, we walked a short distance to the train station where we got our bags and got on the train. I was rooming with Madeline, Jaime, Shelby M. and Adriana (who had hurt her hand earlier). There were six beds and five of us so Adriana decided to sleep on the floor so we only had to pull up two of the beds. I am planning to sleep on the bottom bed but there isn't a lot of room because we didn't pull up the other bed. We had a party thing in our room earlier. All the preppy kids were in our room, there was like 14 of them in the room at one point, plus us. When I get up, we will be in Italy. Good night!

People to People European Odyssey journal, 06/29/07

Day 6.

Today we did a lot of sitting around. We got up at like 10:15 am (at least I did, the others didn't get up till noon). When I woke, I found a Milk Dud stuck in my hair. (Joy! 'rolls eyes'). I couldn't find my scissors and so I had to chew it out of my hair and you know that was fun. Then I went and had bread and weird chocolate flakes for breakfast. Then I sat around and read until Katy got up, then we talked a little bit. When Breanna finally made her way into the kitchen, it was around 12:15 pm. Then she started reading Twilight and I started reading a V.C. Andrews book called My Sweet Andrina. V.C. Andrews wrote Flowers in the Attic. Then we had these crepes with cheese and ?. They were good. Then we read some more. Apparently, our host couple, Pierre and Michelle, thought we were bored, cause they gave us cards to play. So Breanna, Kathy and I played Go Fish! and then War! After that we tried to use their really ancient French computer to get online (at least Katy did). After that didn't work, we all sat around in my room for a while (same room as the computer room). Then we went back to the living room. Then we had pizza for dinner. We talked and read some more before heading to our rooms. I then used the phone in my room to call my mom. We talked for, like, 30 to 45 minutes. It was fun. I had missed her. The only problem is now I miss her more.

I have to get up early tomorrow and it's 1 am. Good night!

People to People European Odyssey journal, 06/28/07

Day 5.

Oh my god, we were supposed to be up at 9 am this morning and I didn't get up until 10:40 am and the others didn't get up until around 11:10 am. My homestay family didn't seem to mind. When I did get up, the 1 yr old was here as well as the other dog but Marie and her husband were nowhere to be found. I had chocolate cereal for breakfast and kept mixing up froid and chaud because of the c-thing. After breakfast, all 3 of us played with the little boy. then while they fed him lunch, both of the other girls fell asleep. But before she fell asleep, Katy was drawing in a coloring book for her two cousins. While we were playing with the little boy, Katy kept building towers and the little boy kept knocking them down and she just kept building them back up. It was very cute. Then we had lunch. Hot dogs and something else I can't remember. Then we all hung around reading and watching TV. Then around 3 pm, Pierre took us to Rouen and walked around for about an hour. We saw a gorgeous clock tower and a cathedral. Rouen is where Joan of Arc is from. I got some good pictures and a brochure. Then we went to our hour French class. It did nothing productive. Then we went back and had dinner and I can't remember what we ate. After chatting for like 3 hours, we have decided to go to bed. Good night!

p.s. We went to an overlook and saw of Rouen. Katy and Breanna were also feeling friendlier today. We talked a lot. It was actually kinda fun. Katy called her parents. I found out that she fights real bad with her mom.

People to People European Odyssey journal, 06/27/07

Day 4.

I woke up this morning at 7:15 am. I got dressed and packed things up completely. Torie discovered her brush was missing, she had a freak out and decided Brianna had stole it. No one told Brianna, of course, why would we do that? Then Brianna came in and accused Torie of having a problem with her just because she was from Indiana. She tought this because that's what Shelby W. had told her.

Oh god, don't ya just love drama?

Then we had breakfast during which we learned a very interesting fact about Julie. Then we got on the bus which was much bigger than it had been the last few days. There was enough room for anyone who wanted their own seat to have their own seat. We then drove like 2 hours to Versailles. The Hall of Mirrors was open so I tool a lot of pics of that as well as of the King and Queen's apartment. Then we went out in the garden and took some pictures there. My group (Taygan, Julie, Rocky and I) were about 40 mins ealy for our meeting out front. So, we just sat there. I read Twilight. Then we got on the bus for the 2 1/2 hour ride to where our host family picked us up. I found out I was staying with Breanna (my roommate in the hotel) and Katy (Katriel). We are staying with Mr. & Mrs. _________. Because I speak the tiny bit of French that I do, I was chosen to be the official spokesperson for the group. They were very nice but also very old. We all sat around watching French news for a while and then their grown up son, his wife, Marie and their 1 yr old son came over for dinner. 'They brought another dog over so the animal count was 2 dogs and a cat. Then we had a 3-4 hour dinner. First there were all these snack-like appetizers. then there was quiche, which we all had 2 pieces of. Following that, there was salad, then cheese (that was kinda gross) and then some French dessert that was okay. After dinner I took a quick shower and now I must get in bed. Goodnight!

p.s. We gave the family their gifts at the beginning of the stay to break the ice. I am staying in the bedroom by myself,while Katy and Breanna get to stay in a room together. They are both very nice and into sports. The little black dog is about 14 years old and the cat is 17 years old. I forgot to mention the 4 adults at the table had a huge amount of liquor. A bottle of sherry, a bottle of whiskey, 3 bottles of wine between the four of them. The cat really liked Katy. And the dogs like me and Breanna.

People to People European Odyssey journal, 06/26/07

Day 3.

Today I got up at 5:30 am. I packed up and went downstairs to breakfast at 6:45 am. I sat with Taygan, Isabell and Torrie (from Indiana). The bus was late and while we waited for it, Doe, Torrie (fI), Isabell and Meg all played with the Legos in the lobby. It was fun.

I then sat with Meg on the bus. She writes in her journal constantly. She was nice and she likes to read. It was a really long boring bus ride. First the bus was late and then we were stuck in traffic for at least 1 1/2 hours.

Then the tour guide joined us on the bus. I could understand her, that wasn't a problem. I just could never find what she was pointing out. We drove by the Place de la Concorde and the Opera House. She also took us to Notre Dame and we got to spend about 40 minutes there. I took some good video. It was still cold and windy. After Notre Dame, we went to lunch at a place called Flunch. The lobby smelled like the Weasly twins had sent a dung bomb off. It was a buffet thing. I had steak hache and french fries. It wasn't very good.

Then we were supposed to meet with Henri Landier. But he wasn't there. Instead there was some woman who didn't speak English very well. She told us as much as she could, but as soon as she stopped talking, I fell asleep. Then we walked up to the Montmartre area and saw the Sacre Coeur. The first thing I did was buy a sweatshirt that was way too expensive. Then we walked around a little more and went into the church. I was really annoyed because I couldn't find the plaque that talked about the shrapnel marks and WW I or WW II. It annoyed me.

I hung out with Taygan and Julie U. We were supposed to be a group of five but we weren't. The PtP rule is that 3 people to a group with at least one guy or 5 girls. That is one of the most annoying things ever. The rule is so sexist, it is nowhere near funny. I understand why the rule is there but that doesn't mean I have to like it.

After that, we went to dinner at a restaurant up in Montmartre. They served us pate, which is goose liver. It was so gross. I don't eat internal organs, thank you very much. (That was not an invitation to tell me all the internal organs I do actually eat. I don't want to know.)

We ended up on the Redlight district after dinner which was interesting. The other kids are still surprised about how open they are about bodies here. This was especailly shocking as there were pictures in front of most of the sex shops and live show places. I meant to take a picture of the red lights shining on the Metropolitan sign but I forgot.

After that, we fought traffic all the way back to the hotel. I went upstairs and grabbed my journal so I could go back down to the meeting. We talked about our homestays and they refused to tell us who were were going to be with until tomorrow. I am going to go get in the shower. Good night!

p.s. I learned that Taygan is going into sophomore year so I am not the youngest one here. there are actually quite a few upcoming sophomores. Julie is gonna be a senior. Meg is gonna be a sophomore. I almost forgot. Doe locked the deadbolt to keep the door from closing but then it got stuck between the door frame and the light switch. The door guy had to work on it like 45 minutes before he could get the door open. Amber also kicked door and broke the light switch. Due to my lack of cash (the ATM in Paris didn't work), I was unable to purchase ice cream today. This could be a good or bad thing. I don't know.

Today, Kevin and I had a huge discussion about Amazonian society and current society. Kevin was pissing me off because he believes that women need to get out of the workplace. He also said that women are weaker than men. I was getting ready to slap him. He thinks that all woman are suited for it raising children. I think I might have to kill him.

People to People European Odyssey journal, 06/24/07 & 06/25/07

Day 1 & 2

It never got dark, so this is one entry. Deal with it.

I got up at 4 am. We left the house at 5 am to drive to Grand Junction.

I forgot zip-lock bags. Oh well!

We got to the airport about 15 mins early and my mom insisted on taking millions of pictures. I was the first student to check in and my bag only weighed 33 lbs. Yay me! I also made friends with Taygan and her mom. I sat next to Madeline on the Grand Junction to Denver plane ride and slept for most of it. We sat around in the Denver airport for, like, 2 1/2 hours and I had Pizza Hut breadsticks for lunch because I forgot to bring my Nouriche yogurt drinks in the car.

Taygan and I have a lot of the same taste in music but she also likes some more eclectic music.

Then I sat next to Shelby and Carris on the Denver to Munich flight. Shelby was very nice. I ate chicken. I also watched Catch and Release and Freedom Writers. Then Carris made me mad with all his Aspen bashing (about students calling teachers by their first names). I only got like 2 hours of sleep. Then we got on the Munich to Paris flight and I sat next to Janessa. I slept again. Soon we arrived in Paris. Luckily my bag arrived safe and intact. Then we all got on the bus and went to lunch at a restaurant called Flam. We had a weird pizza thing with ham, onions and mushrooms. Then for dessert, we had a weird pizza thing with chocolate and apples. It was yummy.

Then we went to the Eiffel Tower. It was windy and cold and we had to wait a long time. I really wish I had a sweatshirt. After standing in the cold for years, we went up the tower. I went up and took some good pics and got some noisy film. I almost bought another Eiffel Tower, but decided against it. Then we went down, got back on the bus and went back to the hotel. I am rooming with Brianna and Torrie. I'm sharing a bed with Brianna. Brianna gave me a bunch of magazines she was done with. Now off to shower and sleep. Goodnight!!

p.s. I forgot about dinner. We ate at Planet and had a choice between cheeseburger and hamburger. Misa kept getting stuck in the elevator door. searching for a bathroom.

People to People European Odyssey journal, 04/23/07

I am excited about going to the Parthenon because I love Greek mythology. I think it will be really interesting to see Athena's temple, expecially as I have already seen Elgin's Marbles. I am just really excited to go to Greece, period. All of my fellow delegates seem like good people, but they have already formed cliques and I am not in any of them. I am at a disadvantage because I am the only person from Aspen in this program, so there is no one I know from previously in this program.

Mrs. Berry seems to be a very careful person. Mr. Weekley seems to be the kind of teacher that identifies with students. Mr. Carris seems to be always late. He is very energetic.

I don't really know any of these people, delegates or leaders, well enough to judge them (yet).

People to People European Odyssey journal, 03/20/07

At my school, we have All days, Red days and Black days. All days are Mondays. Red days are Tuesdays and Thursdays. Black days are Wednesdays and Fridays. I am going to describe a Black day.

School starts at 8:10 am, so I catch the school bus at 7:45 am. while waiting for the bus, I either lip sync to my iPod or sit and read. Then, on the bus, I sit up towards the front because there is always an empty seat. I either turn my iPod up really loud and listen to that or I try to tune out the rambunctious little kids (without success).

The first class on a Black day is 5th period, which is Intro to Theater in the Black Box. It is always cold in the Black Box for some reason. We are doing a play in theater, so every class we run through it. It gets kind of tiring and repetitive.

Then, from 9:45 - 10:00 am, we have Tutorial. Tutorial was originally designed so that students would have time to visit their teachers with any questions. But we use it to get a snack instead. I buy these delicious homemade chocolate chip cookies every Tutorial.

6th period is Writing Workshop/Math Enrichment. I have W.W. until 10:50 am. We write essays, stories and poems. The goal is to improve everyone's writing. Some people still only have fourth grade writing levels. Then, at 10:50 am, I have Math Enrichment. The goal in that class is to improve everyone's math skills, because a lot of people have holes in their learning. I like chatting with Julie and Brook who are the teachers of thoses classes. We talk about everything from books to music to movies ot TV shows.

Then, at 11:30 am, we get let out for lunch. I typically have a turkey sandwich, fruit, Powerade and another cookie. When I am done, I go into the library or the M.S. Office classroom and go online. I read Fan Fiction until my next class.

My next class is Geology. That classroom always smells bad. I am always partnered with this girl named Heather for labs. She and the fact that I do good on tests are the only reasons I am not failing that class.

Then, at 1:45 pm, I have French. That room also smells weird like gas from a stove. We are on our food unit and are filming cooking shows entirely in French but don't be fooled. I am not at all fluent.

Then I catch the school bus home and do my homework.

People to People European Odyssey journal, 02/14/07

I would tell them (people who are angry at the French for France's opposition to the US position in Iraq) first that what the government does doesn't define the people. I would tell them that they can hate the French government all they want, but hating the people is just ridiculous.

Governments, being in charge, are pretty much required to take a stance on every issue; just because the government chose to take that stance on that issue is not reason to begrudge the people, even if some of them agree. You can't assume the entire French population agrees with their government. I mean, not everyone in American agrees with the War on Terror. In short, hating people who don't agree with you is stupid and never ending.

People to People European Odyssey journal, 01/14/07

If I could bring back any dead Greek person, I would bring back Socrates because his teachings and bravery inspired Plato to open the Academy in Athens where Aristotle taught for 20 years. I chose him because it basically all started with him. I would ask him what made him decide to teach the youth of Athens and why did he not leave when parents started to make trouble? Once he answered those questions, I would tell him about how People to People is also teaching the youth, but this time it's teaching the youth of the world. I would tell him the program promotes peace and understanding between nations. I would also tell him that we still study him, his life and his methods of philosophy. I think he would be like the program and be flattered that he is still talked about today. I think he would be proud of his student, Plato, for continuing the tradition and I think he would be proud of the world's attempts for peace. I would also tell him that we are traveling to Athens this summer and that I am very excited to go. And the last thing I would tell him before I sent him back would be that I think his philosophy is interesting and that I enjoyed talking with him.

People to People European Odyssey journal, 01/01/07

1. People to People is a program that promotes peace and understanding. It was started with the idea of spreading peace one person at a time. It is also an educational experience that allows you to learn about other cultures and experience things you wouldn't otherwise.

2. "Ambassadorial Behavior" is being respectful to all adults and important people, and calling them by their formal names unless told otherwise. It means not picking fights and being respectful of other people and their feelings and opinions. It means being able to quietly and maturely solve your problems with other people. It means keeping your cool around people who you might find annoying or who might be your arch enemy. I means using your common sense and knowing the difference between right and wrong. But most importantly, it means remembering that everything you do abroad will be seen and judged by someone and that as a Student Ambassador, you want to leave the best impression possible.

3. My role as a Student Ambassador is . . .

Depart for the United States

Day 20 - Pack up your suitcase for the last time and board the coach for the airport. Remember to complete your program evaluations and exchange friendship cards with your fellow Ambassadors. ΑΝΤΙΟ ΕΛΛΑΔΑ ! (Goodbye Greece)! Goodbye Europe!

Athens, Greece

Day 19 - Take part in one of the favorite adventures of people visiting Greece: island hopping! Head out into the Saronic Gulf, and make a stop on Aegina. Enjoy your last full day in Europe with a fabulous day on the Mediterranean Sea!

Athens, Greece

Day 18 - Named for Athena, the goddess of wisdom, Athens has been inhabited for 7,000 years and is considered the birthplace of European civilization. Begin your time in Athens with a guided city walk, taking in the majestic Acropolis. Most of the buildings gracing this site date back to the Golden Age of Greece, in the 5th century BC. The Parthenon, which dominates the Acropolis, symbolizes the glory of ancient Greece. Nearby stands the Erechtheion, which is built on the site where Poseidon and Athena are said to have competed for possession of Athens. This afternoon, take part in an orientation held in the foundation “Dora Stratou”. Learn the first steps of the most popular Greek dances during your dance course at the Dora Stratou Theater. Enjoy the entertainment, while attending the performance of traditional Greek dances at the Dora Stratou Theater.

Athens, Greece

Day 17 - Visit Epidaurus, which is famous for its well-preserved 4th century BC amphitheater. It is said that this theater has near-perfect acoustics, and many modern productions are still performed here. During the Greek period, the theater could hold 13,000 people. Afterwards, cross over the Corinth Canal and participate in an environmental project in the area or near Athens. You will participate in the efforts to protect the Careta Careta sea turtles.

Peloponnese, Greece

Day 16 - KΑΛΩΣ ΗΡΘΑΤΕ ΣΤΗΝ ΕΛΛΑΔΑ ! (Welcome to Greece). Upon arrival in Patras, the second largest port in Greece, head off to Olympia, named after the mountain where Zeus was supposed to live (Mt. Olympus). The Olympic Games first took place in this area in 776 BC. Originally, the only event was men’s sprinting, but wrestling, boxing and equestrian events were added later. At Ancient Olympia, you can see the ruins of the Temple of Zeus, as well as a 3rd century BC athletic stadium.

Overnight Ferry, Italy - Greece

Day 15 - Arrivederci, Italia! Make an excursion to the ancient city of Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius’ most famous victim. When the mountain erupted in AD 79, it rained ash and stone, completely destroying and burying the town. In 1748 excavation began, and is still going on today. Some of the ruins are remarkably intact, including the House of the Faun, the House of the Vettii, and the House of the Mysteries. Walking among them, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back two thousand years. Afterwards, set off for the port of Brindisi. This evening, board your overnight ferry to Patras, Greece!

Naples, Italy

Day 14 - Bid farewell to Rome and head southwards to the region of Campania and its impressive volcano! Discover the famous Mount Vesuvius, and experience one of Europe’s few active volcanoes. Don’t worry, the last eruption was in 1944! Later you will participate in an educational meeting with a nun. She will tell you about life in the convent, its founder and her personal motives for becoming a nun!

Rome, Italy

Day 13 - Discover the sights and sounds of Rome! Go to the capital of Catholicism and the world’s smallest state, the Vatican. Marvel at St. Peter’s cathedral, which contains hundreds of works of art, including Michelangelo’s glorious Pietà. Just off the cathedral, you’ll find the Sistine chapel, containing what are perhaps the most amazing frescoes in the world. This afternoon, explore the city’s center as your delegation is divided into teams to engage in a little friendly competition! With your team, collect information about the Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain. Don’t forget to bring your coins; tossing a coin in the fountain will grant your wish to return to Roma!

Remember: There is a strict dress code at the Vatican. Girls must cover their shoulders and knees. Long skirts or pants are appropriate. For boys, short-sleeved shirts are okay, but no shorts, please. Sandals are fine for either. You may be asked to leave or be denied entrance if you don’t follow these guidelines.

Rome, Italy

Day 12 - This morning head off to Rome. Marvel at this architecturally rich city as you explore the Forum Romanum and the Coliseum. Constructed in 80 AD, the Coliseum has the capacity to seat over 50,000 spectators and was the venue for such entertainment as gladiator combat!

Assisi, Italy

Day 11 - Today is all about challenge, excitement, and energy! Get ready for a day packed with adventure and personal growth. Through interactive and challenging workshops led by the Full On team, you will have the opportunity to learn leadership skills, set personal goals, and step outside your comfort zone. Later, take some time to reflect upon today's activities and your personal achievements.

Assisi, Italy

Day 10 - This morning pay tribute to the 4,402 interred servicemen and women who fought for the liberation of Italy at the Florence American Cemetery, one of 14 permanent American World War II military cemetery memorials on foreign soil. You will travel further to one of the most culturally rich cities in the world: Firenze (Florence). Meet your Italian guide for an initial look at the city. You’ll get an overview of the colorful history of Florence and take a walk through the city center. The Duomo, the famous symbol of Florence, is the tallest building in the city and the fourth largest cathedral in Europe. Look for the bronze doors to the Baptistery, known as the “Gate of Paradise.” Visit the Accademia Gallery, which houses Michelangelo’s colossal statue, David. Board your coach and continue your journey to Perugia.

Montecatini, Italy

Day 9 - Continue your journey through the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy to Montecatini, in Tuscany. Emilia-Romagna is the heartland of central Italy, a rich agricultural area—one of the most prosperous in the country. On the way, visit the Fossoli transit camp and experience a darker aspect of European history. See one of the most famous buildings in Europe when you travel to Pisa, whose powerful navy once dominated the Mediterranean. Stop at the Square of Miracles, where you’ll view some of the best examples of Romanesque architecture in Italy, including the Leaning Tower. Begun in 1173, the Tower started to tilt even before the third level was finished in 1274; it was finally completed in 1350.

Venice, Italy

Day 8 - Buon Giorno e Benvenuto in Italia! If there is one city in this world that can be described as unique, it’s Venice, the one-time gateway to the Orient. Winding through the heart of the city is the Grand Canal, which remains, in the words of a French Ambassador of 1495, “the most beautiful street in the world”. During a guided orientation, you will explore the bustling alleys, quaint bridges and narrow canals of Venice. Of particular interest is Basilica di San Marco, the splendid cathedral crowned with five huge domes. In front of the cathedral is Piazza San Marco, a large meeting place for Venetians and pigeons. Behind the nearby Palazzo Ducale, see the Bridge of Sighs. If there’s one thing Venice is famous for—besides gondolas—it’s glass. Watch a demonstration of Venetian glass blowing in the glass factory, Veccia Murano. Why not enjoy one of life’s great pleasures and take a ride in a gondola?