Wandering Gal

Today started as each day has for us at our little cafe with cappuccinos and cornettes (croissants stuffed with grape jam!) Warm from the oven! We decided we would take a short boat trip along all the caves underneath the old town. WOW! The sea was rough, which we didn't like but the sun was shining and the color of the water just beautiful and so clear! We walked a bit out of town toward a small bay to catch our boat. We spent one hour which was enough but other than the rough sea and over zealous driver it was so much fun, also to see Polignano from this angle was really a sight! We hung out after the ride with a cold beer watching the locals lay in the sunshine. Then decided to do ... read more

Even though I've only been planning this trip for a month or so, glad to be finally heading out! First stop London for a night then the next day Leslie and I are flying to Italy! After lots of research, can't help myself, I am such an armchair traveler. Our specific destination is to an ancient seaside town on the heel of Italy. "The area has been settled since prehistoric times, evidenced by archaeological excavations in the locality of Santa Barbara. It is believed to be the site of the ancient Greek city of Neapolis of Apulia, not mentioned by any extant records but attested by many coins. Remains of the Roman domination include the bridge on the Via Traiana. The former cathedral includes works by the sculptor Stefano of Putignano. In the frazione/... read more

Our second day here at the lake. Having lots of fun exploring and walking around. Went up to the main market area this morning for some Arroz De Leche (rice milk) for breakfast. The last time I was here there were not so many cars but now seems there are so many Tuk Tuks and personal cars it is hard to walk on the road without almost getting run over. The people here are still so friendly even after being invaded with back pack travelers. They must think some are quite strange with their white skin and long hair dreads. Gla we are staying where we are which is off the beaten path and I do mean path, so nice they paved it, for so many years it was just a dirt path. Most of the ... read more

Well we have been here a few days now and it has been fun getting reaquainted with Oaxaca. Staying in the central area right on the Zacola has its ups and downs for sure. It is great watching people from our balcony that faces right onto the square with such a fabulous Church and constant activity but with that comes the noise! If you have never been to a busy city in Mexico hang on to your ear plugs because it is noisy. Right now they are setting up a huge stage for all the many events and concerts that Day of the Dead has and if the set up is any indication of how loud it can be well it is going to be hard to get any rest in the hotel that's for sure. ... read more

Well I figured I have been back for a few days and I should wrap up my blog for this trip. I must say I had a fantastic time and really enjoyed my whirlwind trip to London and Northern Italy. Most of you probably heard about all the recent Earthquakes in Italy. Well where I was staying was right in the middle of it, however I was pretty lucky in that we arrived in Reggio Emilia the day after the first major quake and traveling on a train for the second one. Other than a jolt I missed it entirely except the bit of hysteria of the locals worried the big one may strike. My heart goes out to those that lost their homes or a worse a family member. For the most part the area ... read more