[ Montepulciano, Italy by Larry Snyder ] Although our coordinates look similar year after year, we’ve come at it from a different direction this time. Pisa is a seaside, regional Tuscan airport accepting jetliners full of primarily Euro fliers seeking some Vitamin D, a well-priced glass of vino rosso, and a bit of stylish culture that comes in many forms. Celebrating the arrival of all our four checked bags, we …
[ Sotto Montepulciano ] There’s a push, a tangible draw coming from within this Ryan Air 737-800. It’s time to create. For this short window, I’m free of the norm, to take chances while I occupy land that nearly built the act of creativity. Feeling the need to up my artistic game, this trip has to be big on discovery. Not necessarily new destinations, although that is tempting. The surgeons …
I had a feeling when we pulled into the carpark (British term) and I noticed several signs noting our destination a UNESCO World Heritage site, that this was to be a memorable visit. Our favorite Brits, Bill and Tina, wanted to share one of their national treasures knowing we fancy (another British term) ancient stone structures that once welcomed holy residents. Fountains Abbey and the adjoining Studley Royal Garden has …
Sagre Amedeo: Our annual American-style 4th of July bar-b-cue on Amedeo’s birthday. The 20 stairs connecting our main living area to the garage provide me a little extra cardio this time of year. Each time we make this trip across the Atlantic, I’m commissioned to drag our three-piece hard-sided luggage set up the stairs only to take at least one back when Jill realizes how far over weight we’ll be …
What an honor to speak to this Expedia audience about getting the most out of traveling in Italy. I’ve been talking about 6/7 for weeks. Every other customer at my coffee post got to hear about it, some more than once. Fortunately for me, a seasoned tech veteran with a good position on the Totem Pole made the best suggestion I’ve ever heard. Trying not to become hysterical, I agreed that …
In the past 72 hours, I’ve enjoyed two concerts that both had over 100 musicians on stage. I’m pretty sure I’m not the only one on earth incredibly inspired by live music. It’s always been that way. Perhaps it is my unmet lifetime desire to touch the keys like Bob James or handle the violin in the spirit of Joshua Bell. I’ve spent the last few years saying yes to ticket …
