We got into Venice around 6pm but then we needed to find a parking garage. Luckily, our hotel recommended one. As we were pulling in, I was on the phone with one of my friends that we were supposed to meet up with. The garage worker, was giving Sarah directions as to where to park, and she got all mad at me because she couldn't understand what he was saying and I was on the phone. I quickly hung up the phone, only to realize that the man was speaking to her in English!! Jaimie and I were laughing for a good while because Sarah couldn't understand English.
We bought a pass for 24hrs to ride the water taxis and made our way to our hotel. We met up with my friend Christine, who was staying with us as well. After getting settled in, we went out for dinner and a walk around. We had a nice pizza dinner and to our surprise, Venice was pretty empty so we took a nice walk around. I can't believe how beautiful Venice is. Having water all around is amazing and everything seems so calm and relaxing. We walked around for quite a while and then decided to get on a water taxi to take us back to our place. There are not many cars on Venice because it is very hard to get around with one there. There are so many islands around and everything is connected by little foot-bridges. It took us a little longer to get back than we hoped, but at least we were on the water. The rocking of the boat put me to sleep like a baby, and Jaimie took some embarrassing pictures of me...What a nice sister.
The next morning we got up early and walked around. Besides walking around and riding the taxies, there is not much else to do, but it was great for Sarah and Jaimie to see that slow-paced lifestyle. We visited St. Mark's church, and Sarah and I climbed the bell tower where we could see all around the cities. It was a great experience. Venice is known for its glass,( which I didn't know) so we went shopping for some. We visited the island of Murano, where most of the glass is made. We weren't able to see any of the glass making, but the showrooms were very cool. We all made a few purchases and then got lunch. We bought panini by the Grand Canal, and enjoyed ourselves for a little bit.
We only had the one full day in Venice, because I started up school again on Tuesday, but it was fun while it lasted. We got ready for our 6 hour drive back to Rome.
I had a full week of activities for Sarah and Jaimie. We returned the car Tuesday morning and then headed to the Colosseum. I went in with Sarah and Jaimie, gave them a history lesson, and then went to class. While I was at class they explored the Roman Forum and Palatine hill. After class we met back up and went to the Capitoline museum. I had never been before either so it was a great time. We spent a couple hours looking at many old Roman sculptures and paintings from the 14th, 15th and 16th centuries.
Wednesday we got up early and went to St. Angelo's castle. This used to be used for Popes as a protective castle. It had a great view of the city and we explored for a while. Once again they stayed while I went to class. The castle is round, odd i know, but it was very interesting. It was very plain and kind of ugly from the outside, and then somewhat intricate on the inside. There is a restaurant and cafe inside which was very cool.
Thursday I brought them to the Vatican. I knew that it was going to be crowded the whole week so we waited until Thursday. I went to the basilica with them and then I had class once again, so they went to the catacombs and the Vatican Museum while I was in class. After class we got some pizza and then wet to climb to the top of the Basilica. The Cupola was over 500 steps to the top. They make you take a elevator part of the way and then climb the remaining 300. It was kinda creepy because the staircase is slanted because the dome is right there. It was very crowded at the top but we got some good pictures.
Friday was shopping day. The main goal was to find Jaimie a prom dress....and we did! Not many people can say they got their dress from Italy, so she did good. We did a lot of shopping and looking around before going to our last dinner. I took them to our favorite club the night that they were leaving. We had a great time and decided to stay up until they had to leave my house at 4am. They left and got safely to the airport.
I was so glad to have my sisters visit. I was so proud and excited to show them "my" city and have them experience part of Italy with me. I leave in 3 weeks and I am excited to see everyone from home.
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