WHAT TO DO IN ROME

ROME'S ICONIC SITES

Well we all know that Rome is home to some amazing fountains.   We had talked about the infamous Trevi Fountain not to long ago...but what is even more amazing is some of the historical sites around Rome...and I am not just talking some old places...I am talking back in the day of Julius Ceasar.  The Colosseum comes to mind.  Imagine you are sitting in the middle of all the hustle and bustle and there in all of its archeological glory sits The Colosseum...where the Gladiators fought.  This massive stadium was built in 70 AD.  It's still there!  


Now remember, we are only talking about Rome...picture yourself in the time of Julius Ceasar...and the Roman Forum.  The Roman Forum flourished as the center of Roman life in the days of the Republic and early Empire.  Of course this mostly in ruins now...but still you can almost feel yourself transported in time as you walk through the area.  Just picture the original temples, arches and basilicas, and if you climb Palatine Hill you will be provided a panoramic view of the Roman Imperial Forums and Capitoline Hill and the Colosseum.  Simply Amazing!


Well no trip to Rome would be complete without visiting The Vatican and St. Peter's Basilica.  The Vatican, or course, is the lavish Papal Palace, known as the Vatican Museum.  YOu may want to get a guide book to help you tour around because there is so much to see.  Here is a tip....arrive early it helps beat some of the crowds.  Now while there you will see a treasure trove of mummies, tapestries, and Renaissance art.  Every room will provide you with another awe-inspiring experience.  Then your trip will be complete when you see the Sistine Chapel, Michelangelo's astonishing achievement....


So we now move on to St Peter's Basilica.  This is considered the holiest shrine in the Catholic Church.  The basilica is built on the site of St. Peter's tomb.  The Pope delivers Mass within its glorious walls and Bernini's massive bronze canopy towers over the alter.  The Basilica also contains Michelangelo's famous marble statue, The Pieta.  Which, by the way he completed when he was only 24.  Whether you of the Catholic faith or not...the artistry, the history and the ambiance is worth the visit.  However, remember that because it is the Vatican, there is a dress code.  
A trip to Rome would not be complete without experiencing Rome by night.  Rome after Dark is illuminated...Imagine the lights on the Pantheon, the Roman Temple dedicated to the Gods.  Many of the iconic sites are lite up at night.  Just breathtaking.   While your out exploring you may want to take in some of the night life...sip the wine and taste the food and enjoy the journey.

COMING TO DISNEY
I can't believe all the new things coming to Disney.  First and foremost I want to let everyone know that there is a lot of construction in and around Disney so you can have even more fun.  So what is all the Construction about...well let's start with the new and coming Gondolas high above the road.  These will transport you in and around some of the parks and some of the hotels.  This should be complete in 2019...fingers crossed.  Now some of the things inside the parks..you have heard that the Star Wars is expanding by leaps and bounds, but what you may not have heard is in Epcot in France, by the France Pavilion, they are building a new ride behind the France experience.  This ride is based on the movie Ratatouille...It will be a 3D glasses experience and follow Ratatouille in the scene where he is being chased in the kitchen.  I can't wait.  All these new experiences and attractions coming to Disney will keep you going from the time you get here to the time you leave and you will have to come back to see more.  I do recommend staying on property as they have special magic hours for those staying in their resorts. Also check out their meal plans...they are definitely worth it.  

SUPPORT ANIMALS ON PLANES 
Well there has been all sort of scuttlebutt around what type of animals are allowed on the planes...we have seen some strange sightings of peacocks and more...Even TV commercials poked fun at it with fliers bringing on their pet dinosaurs.  So here is the latest.  Some airlines have come up with a compromise or better yet control on types of animals.  Delta, United, Jet Blue, Southwest and some others have decided a support animal is either a Dog or Cat...in some cases miniature horses.  However, you will need a letter from a medical doctor or licensed mental health professional on the day of departure.  Also any animal that has disruptive behavior may be denied boarding.  I do advise you call your airline in advance to make sure that you are in compliance with their rules and regulations.

CELEBRITY CRUISES IN THE GALAPAGOS
Want more exploration in your life...check out the Celebrity Cruise lines to the Galapagos. The Galapagos Islands are located in the Pacific Ocean right in the Equator Line and about 605 miles to the west of South America.  The Islands are part of Ecuador.  That being said you can see some real interesting wildlife.   For instance, you will see the Blue-footed Booby.  These birds actually have blue feet...I can only describe the blue as sort of a Tiffany Blue.  You also have heard these islands have those giant tortoises and if you are a snorkeler the Sea Lions will be all around.  If you want to explore the Islands you have the Lava Tunnels and beautiful landscapes.  If you want even more excitement in your life...there is Cliff Jumping.  Not me, thank you....but you can watch others.   These cruises usually sail between September to November and the ships are a little more intimate so space fills fast.  So you may want to book now for next year.  Feel free to contact me and I can get you on one of these fabulous cruises.



DESTINATION OF THE WEEK
Bar Harbor Maine

A luxurious and coastal getaway, Bar Harbor invites you to explore its magnificent landscape painted with nature’s pleasures and iconic jewels.  With the Acadia National Park in its backyard, the town is surrounded by such beautiful sights that flow from the bottom of the tranquil lakes to the top of the 1,532-foot Mount Cadillac.  Bar Harbor is truly a great destination to enjoy nature, adventure, and beauty to the fullest.  So enchanting, the Rockefellers, Vanderbilts, and other prominent families found refuge in its charm.

Located on Mount Desert Island in Maine, United States, Bar Harbor’s captivating landscape was once a peaceful escape for many artists and scholars.  However, more people are becoming drawn to this unique paradise filled with deluxe accommodations, slightly tucked away from the busy crowds.  Bar Harbor offers an extraordinary experience for tourists who are searching for a peaceful, yet eventful vacation.   Enjoy the orange sunset over the sea on the nature cruises, which are highlighted with amazing sights of whales, dolphins, and puffins. Bar Harbor’s maritime is also home to many exotic animals and kayaking adventures.

The town’s shopping experience is an enriching treat for everyone.  Local boutiques and shops are vibrantly draped with treasures specifically found in Maine.  With such a variety of antiquities, there is something for every pocket. Nights are warmed by the sounds of live entertainment coming from the nearby hotspots.  From comedy shows to concerts, Bar Harbor provides a great atmosphere for an intimate outing under the stars.

The foods of Bar Harbor are a cultural event that brings locals and tourists together.  Restaurants are drenched in the mouthwatering scents of seafood, lobster, and many other delicious treats.  Behind every door there is a wide spectrum of digestive specialties, purposely created to delight your taste buds.

Bar Harbor experiences a moist continental climate.  From June to September (warm season) the temperatures average from a high of 77°F to a low of 48°F.  During the months of December to March, the weather fluctuates between a high of 35°F to as low as 10°F.

Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport (BHB) is the town’s main gateway to the rest of the United States as well as different international destinations.  Sail under the sun and capture views of Bar Harbor’s coast by hopping on board of a local ferry.  The Island Explorer provides tours to various hiking grounds, sites, and beaches.  

RECIPE OF THE WEEK

PERFECT FLUFFY PANCAKES

INGREDIENTS

1 1/2 c. flour

3 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. salt

1 tbsp. sugar

1 tsp. vanilla extract

1 1/3 c. milk

1 large egg

2 tbsp. butter, melted

Maple syrup, for serving

DIRECTIONS

1.      Mix flour, baking powder, salt and sugar in a large bowl, then add vanilla, milk, egg and melted butter. Stir just enough to break up any large lumps.

2.    Lightly grease a frying pan, warming it over medium-low heat. Pour about 1/4-cup pancake batter onto the pan, spreading it out evenly. When a lip forms around the edge of the pancake and little bubbles appear, flip (about 1-2 minutes). Cook until both sides are lightly golden. Serve with maple syrup. Or any syrup you would like…..
       
       Well I hope you tune-in to my podcast and subscribe for free.  You can pick up my podcast on I-tunes/Stitcher/Buzzsprout.  

     You can also visit my website at www.zeemichaelsontravel.com and you can let your imagination run wild.  And let me help you Make Your Travel Dreams Come True.

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