Final Concert Series of the Summer!

You would think by now I could have rested after being here in Italy for a couple of days, but NOOOO.  We won't stop yet!  We had to agree to meet up with a friend who wanted to join us for a day at the beach.  I was glad because rain was in the forecast the next couple of days.  You wouldn't believe it with the blue skies we had today.  So once again, we woke up early and picked up our friend and off we went! 
In Italy, especially in small towns, it's common for people to get up early on the weekends and head off to the beach in the summertime.  Since word spread about the sudden weather change that was going to happen, my friends felt there was more traffic than usual as we made our way up to Peschici.  Of course since we drove out of town pretty late (around 10am) we finally got there about 11:30am.  An hour and half of going up and down a mountain side.  Me and my friends joked about the dizziness at first, but this drive is not for the faint of heart.  Actually, most roads in Italy are very narrow, and everyone drives around in an itty bitty car.  No large trunk spaces around here.  Not to mention, I understand why most cars are stick-shift.  It's impossible to go up these steep hills!  I did notice charter buses going from town to town.  So you can get around using that.  I would suggest to plan accordingly since most of these drives were averaging almost 2 hours.  I knew off handed I was getting around places with the help of my friend who knew her way around.  I wouldn't have been able to pull this off unless I used the EuroRail and those usually get you to the major cities. 
We found parking near the local restaurant of the beach and figured we'll place a reservation so we can eat since we got hungry from the drive.  Again, one hour of sun and then it's chow time!  This time we did notice some vendors selling interesting beads and beachwear.  I bought some cute sundresses for 5 euros!  We also noticed a campground located on the beach.  It seems to be pretty popular with Germans and since the owners of the restaurant were part German as well, it was nice to see other cultures venturing out to this beautiful beach.  Supposedly people camp out at the beach all summer!  NICE!
The Trabucco da Mimi was located right off the seashore and had a gorgeous view overlooking the beach and village.  A "trabucco" is a special Italian fishing structure made of wood and usually perched on a cliff.  We ordered some wine and decided to venture out around the restaurant for a bit for some picture taking.  This was the life!  I can get use to drinking wine everyday with a view like this!  I can honestly say looking back I had a great time with my friends and listening to their views of the world and the Italian life.  It does make you appreciate what you do and do not have everyday back in the states.  Of course, being an American has its perks too.  You have to remember, most Europeans aren't fond of tourists in general, and change for that matter.  They take pride in their past and history, but sometimes have problems accepting new ideas and customs.  I can imagine how frustrating it can be.  My friend showed us an area overlooking the mountain side where a huge fire had taken place.  Apparently, there was going to be new development to be constructed and a fellow villager started the fire to delay the process (or not have it built at all).  Talk about extreme!
We went back down and laid out some more, but we then realized we did not want to ride back in the dark, especially down that mountain side!  We headed back to town and dropped off our friend.  She had to get up early in the morning anyway.  We also had to get ready (again) because tonight was the final night of the summer concert series in town.  Since a popular singer was performing, and the Italian press was going to be there, I decided to wear a silk one shoulder dress that I had won off ebay.  I couldn't figure out where to wear this dress, and this concert was the perfect solution.  Topped it off with my espadrilles, I ended up dancing the night away.  I had so much fun!  It was pretty exhausting but completely worth it...

  
     

12 Hours Non Stop!

Someone at The Big Party had mentioned rain on Monday, and now it was Saturday morning.  Me and my girl figured let's make it to the beach so we can get some sun in.  She figured out a route where we can also hit up some towns that had a good shopping district.  She had a baptism next week and was looking for a dress to wear.  We packed up a bag and threw in some clothes to wear out and away we went.  Our 1st destination was 2 hours away and it was already 12pm.  We should have left earlier but our night out wore us out.  Unfortunately, our drive started to catch up to us, and by the time we found our town, we were starving for lunch.  We knew the beach was nearby, but couldn't see it right away until we drove over this little bridge.  We noticed that people kept looking at this certain direction, and then it hit us like a ton of bricks.  It was one of the most beautiful sites I've EVER seen!  The sea, surrounded by rocks and white town homes.  We finally arrived to Polignano a Mare!
We quickly found parking and made our way below to the beach.  But with the sun hitting hard and us with an appetite, we figured we needed to eat 1st.  Luckily the beach had a restaurant, and we devoured ourselves to another all-you-can-eat-buffet.  We then changed into our bikinis and found a spot to lay on.  First of all, this was no ordinary "beach".  There was no sand.  In place were rocks, and trust me, it was uncomfortable!  We made the most of it regardless.  Italians LOVE to tan.  In fact, they can spend hours on the beach.  As for us, we only spent one good hour underneath the hot sun.  We decided to go to our next spot, but I will say, Polignano a Mare took my breath away!  It is gorgeous. 
Before we drove out, we had some gelato to cool ourselves off.  And I concur!  Italians know how to make gelato!  It was so yummy.
To change things up a bit, my girl drove to a small little town called Alberobello.  We headed to the central district where the Trulli houses were.  This village is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage site, and rightfully so.  This unique area is over 600 years old!  We walked around took a ton of pictures.  What I liked as well were the souvenir shops inside the homes.  I bought some cool stuff, along with my favorite item I got, a map of Puglia! 
On to the next, and this time we went to the city of Bari.  My girl really wanted to hit up some shops, but we were out of luck looking for a dress to wear to this baptism.  This metropolitan city had a retail shopping district, both high end and low.  I did manage to buy 2 tops, and she got a hot dress to wear out to dinner.  I changed as well, and slipped into my wedges again.  It was time for dinner and my friend wanted to go to one of her favorite restaurants.
We drove to the nearby town of Trani, and I fell in love again!  This port town is so pretty at night!  We walked around in the Marina and found the infamous restaurant La Banchina Osteria.  I ate like a queen once more.  We ordered a "Fruits of the Sea" platter and indulged in some tasty treats.  Everything was delish!  The hardest part for us was the drive back, especially after we had a huge dinner.  We got back into town and headed to the winery again, but this time for a private birthday party.  A friend had rented the space to celebrate his son's birthday.  He was turning 18 and had invited all his friends.  They were having a lively time, but by then me and my friend were exhausted!  We were all over the place for 12 hours non stop!  I did manage to dance for a little bit, but luckily we left before the party died down.   

The Big Party

The jet lag was starting to catch up to me.  My friends had to go to the nearby town San Giovanni Rotondo for an appointment, and they figured we can all hangout there for the time being.  Problem was it was at 9am, and we had to get up around 7:30am to start getting ready.  Mamma Mia!  I don't know how I managed to get up, especially since I had my 10 bottle wine tasting dinner the night before.  We got back pretty late and now we're up and at em.  The drive wasn't so bad, but I'm assuming it was because the countryside was so pretty to me.  We were running seriously late, and as a result, had to wait for the next available time.  In the meantime, our little group headed to the Padre Pio church, and decided to checkout the older one first.  There were a lot of tourists in this area, all to see the Saint Padre Pio.  The cathedral was also a museum as well.  We spent some time there learning about his up bringing and admiring the hundreds of mail that were thrown in his vault.  We made our way to the newly built church, and what a site that was!  Beautiful gold paint were on the ceilings as if it were 14k gold.  Vibrant mosaics from the floor to the ceilings.  We joined in the slowly moving line to view his mummified body.  They mummified him back on the 1970s by the request of John Paul II once they made him a saint. Afterwards, we were hungry since we got up so early and figured it was time for lunch.  We made our way to San Marco in Lamis to their local bakery where we bought some pizza to munch on, and some pasteries for tomorrow's breakfast.  We were pretty high up on the mountain and noticed the dramatic temperature drop.  I threw on a jean jacket and we played around taking pictures of the view.  On our way back home I couldn't help myself and dozed off in the car.  I was crashing pretty bad.  We relaxed the rest of the day and kept the activity light since we knew we had a big night ahead of us.  It was the last weekend before the summer concerts series were officially done.  They were held in the town's winery.  I straightened my hair and slipped into a long black maxi dress and ankle ties wedges.  I opted not to bring heels to my trip because I heard about the cobblestone pavements here in Italy.  And if that's not complicated to walk on, it's either gravel or broken sidewalks.  I really don't know how Italians do it!  I didn't want to take a chance and ruin my heels so wedges was the way to go.

We made our way to the big party.  It was a great turn out, as it usually is since this summer concert series brings people from other nearby towns.  Italians love live music, and tonight's performance was a band that played rock/pop music. Me and my friend walked around and worked the room.  People were fascinated by the fact that I was from Chicago.  Not a lot of tourists make there way down here.  I could see by the look on their faces a sense of pride that I made it to their city.  Italians are very proud of their country, and regions.  And rightfully so!  Every town/city I had the opportunity to visit had their own distinct characteristic and beauty.  I enjoyed the company of new friends that evening.  Afterwards, a couple of people were heading to a nearby nightclub.  I got excited and my friends figured we should check it out for a bit.  I truly appreciate them doing this for me, mostly because we all had a long day that day.  Off we went to the Vida Loca nightclub!  There was a pretty good crowd at that time.  You figure it was after the winery party and that was over around 1:30am.  It's safe to assume the nightlife gets going pretty late here in Italy.  House music was pounding the speakers and me and my friend danced happily with each other.  I missed her very much and was happy to see her having a good time.  

When in Rome Part 2

The next day we had a big breakfast and checked out of our hotel.  Italians normally eat pastries such as biscotti, a slice of pie or a mini pound cake filled with filling for breakfast instead of an American traditional such as eggs and bacon.  I decided to take advantage of our complimentary breakfast because I knew we were going to have a long day. 
We walked over to the Vatican Museums and waited in line for over an hour.  Mind you, this was barely 9:30am so I can't imagine how long the wait would have been if we had arrived later.  Waiting patiently, I heard so many different languages from all over.  This is one of the most visited sites in the world, so I was aware of what a privilege it was for me to finally walk in.  We did not get a tour guide because we were pressed for time.  It was such a shame to enter the corridors and not understand the beauty that was surrounding me.  I was looking for the Sistine Chapel in particular, but I will advise you to plan more accordingly to enjoy the Vatican.  I was so rushed trying to make my way through that I did feel guilty walking out of such a historic museum.
 I managed to catch some breath taking shots throughout my journey to the Chapel.  You couldn't help yourself!  Rooms were sometimes filled with frescos from the ceiling down to the walls.  I was taken aback by the floor length area rugs hanging from above.  After viewing so many rooms and being constantly teased by the "Sistine Chapel this way" signs I felt like we were never going to get there.  And then BOOM!  It took me off guard!  There I was, standing in this gigantic room with other wanderers, looking at the ceiling.  I was there!  My bucket list staring right back at me in all of its glory.
It was pretty surreal being in the last corridor of the Vatican museum.  I've waited years to be in this moment.  I never realized what a profound effect it had on me until I look back, mostly because moments like these are hard to come by.  In total, with me and my friend rushing from room to room, we spent 2 hours trying to get to the Chapel.  That's how many rooms you walk through.  How many stairs we climbed and hallways we passed.  Don't underestimate the size of this museum.  You would need at least 8 hours to get a good glimpse of what this place has to offer.  It will leave you drained.  
Once we left I took a look at the line for St. Peter's Basilica and was  saddened I couldn't make it inside.  We had to drive 3 and a half hours back to my friend's hometown, not to mention we had plans for dinner with friends.  I took a couple of pictures outside but felt hopeful I will make my way back here again.  There's just so much to see in Rome!  We dined for lunch and found our way out.  Rome has some tricky roads to drive through that we got lost trying to get out of there.  After the long drive home we freshened up and made our way to dinner where I was welcomed to a 10 bottle wine tasting!  Mama mia!  The jet leg was catching up to me, but I managed not to fall asleep at the table.  We were dining in the best restaurant in town, and I felt like a queen.  Not bad for Day 2...

 

When In Rome...

One of the most anticipated part of this journey was the flight.  First of all, I HATE flying as it is, so getting on an airplane for an 8 hour flight was something I was NOT looking forward to.  The most I've been on a plane was 4 hours.  8 sounded deadly to me.  Since most flights to Europe are in the early evening, I figured I'll try my best to sleep the whole way there.  I did my best to have a margarita (or two) at the airport but I have to confess, I think I got a little drunk on the plane.  lol.  The food was a nice treat and it settled fine in my nervous tummy.  I knocked out and had my mini nano play out some podcasts that helped me figure out how much longer we would be til we landed.  I absolutely HATED the fact I could see people in front of me watch the GPS on their screens instead of a movie.  Why would anyone want to see that on an 8 hour flight??  Besides some turbulence that lasted 30 minutes, my flight was fine and I landed in Zurich for my quick layover.  Unfortunately, I still had to hop back on a plane but from Zurich to Rome it was an hour long flight.  At this time people were wide awake but I still managed to nap it off.  I was exhausted from being so nervous.  I couldn't believe my eyes when we landed.  I'M FINALLY HERE!!!
I met my friend excitedly and off we went to the heart of Rome.  The airport was about 30 minutes away from the central part so I'm glad I did not take a cab or else it would have cost me a pretty penny.  I exchanged my money at the airport before take off, so I'm glad that was something I did not have to do as well.  Me and my girlfriend caught up on what's been going on and she was a perfect tour guide.  We checked in the hotel and showered up.  I wanted to be out of there quickly so we can see some sites since we were only going to be in Rome for a day and a half.  It was already 5pm when we stepped back out but I felt refreshed.  I took the advice of my uncle which was to sleep when they sleep and fit the jet lag.  I have to get use to the change in hours even though it will hit me like a ton of bricks.  At this point I was running on pure adrenaline.
First up the Palazzo del Quirinale, where the President of the Italian Republic resides.  I was blown away how massive this palace is!  Words cannot do justice.  And unfortunately me posing in front will not show you everything.
Me and my friend walked around some more and found the infamous Colosseum!  It's currently under construction but it did not take away the beauty of it's architecture.  Of course, only when I'm there did it happen to turn 6pm and close to the public.  I really wanted to walk inside, but I did get a glance of the circular seating.  The Roman Ruins are right next door and although it was getting later, we opted not to take the tour inside but took pictures over looking the area.
Speaking of walking, we did a lot of it.  I workout on a regular basis, but to those that do not, I offer this free advice; wear your most comfortable sandals/ shoes because it's easier to get around on foot since everything in the central area is nearby.  Rome has many hills and you will be hiking upright a couple of times.  My gladiator sandals offer very little support.  They are the flatest pair I own, but flat does not equal comfort in this case.
Since it was dinner time (my time) we jumped back into our car and drove around to find something to eat.  My friend has lived in Italy for 2 years now, so she could distinguish which restaurants the locals ate, and which ones were catered to tourists.  We found a popular area where people were gathered around and found a restaurant that offered an all-you-can-eat-buffet.  We ate, drank a bottle of wine, and people watched the rest of the evening til we decided to head back to the hotel to turn in.  Tomorrow was check out time, and we wanted to get up early to get in line for the Vatican Museums.  Day One accomplished!

Made it in front of the Palazzo del Quirinale.  Sometimes you have to wait your turn for a pic.

High end security around, but the detailing of sculptures above are gorgeous.

The Colosseum under construction...

Hundreds of people everywhere but we managed to take a pic together.

The Roman Ruins next door. 

My Birthday Gift To Myself...

This year I promised myself I was going to go to Italy.  It was something I planned to do a while back, mostly because I kept holding it off for so long.  The embarrassing thing is, I've never traveled much.  Considering I'm single without any children, I should have had a full stamped passport by now, but I didn't.  Life kept getting in the way.  Bills kept coming and going.  My priorities shifted every so often.  Of course those are excuses, but the fear of my finances kept me at home.  My life has changed a lot the past 2 years, and it made me realize I am on my own for now.  Actually, I've been on my own since I moved out of my mom's house back when I was 20 years old.  Things were not so good between us at the time, and I figured it was time for me to get out under her roof if I wanted to live my life.  But then like I mentioned, Life happened, and things didn't turn out the way I thought it would.  I had to learn to budget and cut back and eat very little and have to live without electricity until I pay the bill and not have insurance on my car and get into a car accident and deal with lawyers and move in and out with my boyfriends and then become single for the first time in 7 years.  A lot can happen when you decide to grow up sooner than most, but those were the hardships.  The good times consisted of flying out to New York and South Beach with my best friend, heading to Vegas for Memorial Weekend or a birthday or bachelorette party, attending music festivals such as Lollapalooza and concerts at Soldier Field.  And let's not forget the shopping.  Having worked in retail for over 10 years can contribute to an overwhelming closet.  Those were my good times which consisted in living for the moment but not thinking about tomorrow.
Well "tomorrow" is coming sooner than you think.  This year alone I attended 3 funerals and there will be many more to happen in the near future.  Most of my friends' parents are passing and it really puts things in perspective on how you want to live the rest of your life.  I did not expect to be single for what it's worth but for the most part being on my own again made me really look at myself and what I am missing.  Dedicating myself to someone can sometimes mean sacrificing opportunities, but now that I have no one to claim, I decided to do something for me for once.  I ran out of excuses.
I needed this trip for many reasons, but I also needed to see what is out there besides Chicago, or Vegas, or The States in general.  The furthest "north" I've ever been to was Toronto (which I LOVED by the way) and the furthest "south" was Guatemala where my family is from.  It was time to fly out to the European nations and see what's going on over there.  Needless to say, I was blown away and am grateful I had the chance to see something new for myself in my own eyes.  I can't wait to share with you my experience in Italy!