Buon Giorno, Tutti!
Today was such a great experience for the group that I had to share it with you!
After class today, we hustled (actually, the kids ran, and I tried to keep up) to catch the bus to San Gimignano for an afternoon of touristy behavior. San Gimignano has a few important attractions:
1. The Duomo of the city - contains frescoes of the old and new Testaments of the Holy Bible. Also contains the burial location of the patron saint of the city, Santa Fina. She's actually an ideal saint to know for our group. At the age of 10, a serious sickness overtook her body causing her to become paralyzed, and, rather than being bed-set, she preferred to lie on an oak table. Eventually, her body actually grew into the oak table, and, after 5 years, Saint Gregory the Great appeared to her and predicted her death, which happened soon after on the predicted date. A symbol of determination and faith.
2. The Rocca - like every other town in Tuscany, SG's Rocca is the highest point of the city, with beautiful views and a nice, fresh place to enjoy the coolest spot in the city.
3. The best Gelateria in the World - tacky and neon-laden, this spot cannot be missed. Most of us in the group had two servings of gelato from there. They have several special flavors, but the one I most recommend is the Crema di Santa Fina - a cream-flavored gelato with saffron, with a little granola and pine nuts in it. WOW. And I'm totally a chocolate and fruit flavors fan.
SPI graciously covered the cost of the bus tickets for going and returning, so the kids had a great time wandering town, with Becky as tour guide. Hope they have some great pics to share with you!!!
Tomorrow is our last day of class, and our last day in Siena. Everyone will be taking a test to check their progress, and they'll receive diplomas of credit (which I'll promptly collect and take to SPI, from whom you can get them when you go to your university's orientation!). We will take a stroll together out to the Fortress for a group farewell to Siena, then the kids have the afternoon and evening free to make any final purchases and pack for Rome. We meet EARLY on Saturday morning - have to be ready to catch the bus at 7 AM! - and will bus back to Rome, where we'll return to the same hotel where we stayed at the beginning of the trip. After dropping off bags (and meeting my husband, who arrives when we do), we all will travel by metro and local train to Ostia Antica, where we'll tour the city, deserted in the 2nd century due to the plague. Afterwards, we'll return to the hotel to rest and do any final packing (can you believe the ENTIRE group of kids told me that they DIDN'T want to go to the beach for a few hours?), then have our final dinner out, before I force a good night's sleep on all of them before a long day of travel on Sunday.
Parents, again, I just wanted to thank you and the kids for the awesome experience we've had this summer. Not only has this bunch been some of the best learners of Italian, they've been adventurous, always willing to go the extra few steps for the special opportunity. They've made this experience for me so special, and I'll always be thankful.
peace,
L
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
FA CALDO
Buon Giorno!
Well, the heat has become another member of our trip. At least, that's how it seems - it sticks to you everywhere! Being in the shade does give a little reprieve, and time at the beach (or in another smaller town) helps.
On Tuesday, after class, we met up at the Palazzo Pubblico. It's the palace which you see whenever you view pictures of Siena's Campo (main piazza in town). The front has a large sun with "IHS" on it - the symbol of one of Siena's two patron saints, San Bernardino, who brought Christianity to Siena (I think . . . but post a correction if I'm wrong). Of course, the other patron saint is Catherine, about whom we learned on Monday. The Palazzo Pubblico contains two entrances. We entered the palace itself to view the various pieces of art, collected over the centuries, as well as the infamous frescoes of the place. In one room, Becky was amazed by the art commemorating the historical events surrounding Vittorio Emanuele II, Ian thought the sleeping child sculpture was pretty cool. Brenna and Stephen absolutely soaked up all the old frescoes, which had images of the church fathers with the prophets, or the Maesta, or the Allegories of Good and Bad Government. Bravo to Trevor, who, after our artsy tour, chose to climb the Torre del Mangia, the iconic tower of Siena which is attached to the Palazzo.
After our tour, normal life came calling, and several of us went to find lavanderie where we could wash our clothes. There was a pleasant break from the sun with a few minutes of couldy skies, but, let's face it, we're all ready to have a good night's sleep in an air-conditioned room (which we'll get on Saturday). The heat is getting to the point where we're not sleeping well . . .
Today, we had a normal day of class, then, for everyone, a giorno libero. Some people chose to watch the movie of the week, which is shown in the library (Biblioteca) of the school. Some are taking care of themselves and staying out of the heat (and hiding in their homestays). And some chose to take advantage of the season which starts today in Italy - SALDI. Beginning on July 7, all stores put their stuff on"sale", hoping to sell all their summer lines out, before they close up to go off for vacation in August, and return in September to restock their stores with the winter lines. It's the day to buy!!! (Thus a free day)
Tomorrow, we're going on a fun excursion together. Through this trip, many of us have been on the noble pursuit of the best gelato experience. Fortunately, SPI gave me some funny money to spend with the group (on Siena excursions), which, so far, has given us all our entry fees. Tomorrow, immediately after class, we're going to catch a bus to a nearby town, San Gimignano. Of course, this spot has important religious significance, and the saint, Santa Fina, is a good example for youth (she actually died in her teenage years). We will visit a church with beautiful frescoes depicting the stories of the Old and New Testament, and may even attend a little bit of a Vivaldi concert, which is being held in nearby church. But, just as important, is that this town has the best gelateria NEL MONDO. At least, they have the sign to prove it. We'll see if the kiddos agree.
Friday will be our last day in class and in Siena, and the kids will get a free afternoon to have their last experiences in town. Me, I'm running off to the Fortezza to find a fresher breeze. Then, on Saturday, we will meet early (at 7 AM) for the bus to Rome, where we'll check in to our hotel and meet up with my husband, Jay. From there, we're going to do a tour of a nearby ancient, deserted town, Ostia (far nicer experience than Pompeii - not eating dust, and it's near the ocean). What a great way to end this awesome experience together, before we all return home on Sunday!
And that's exactly what this has been - a great experience for the whole group. Your kiddos have been so open-minded and adventurous, easy-going and resilient . . . I've already written a personal note to each of them (which they'll get when I give them their passports), but, parents, please know that they've been an absolute pleasure to lead this summer!!!
a dopo,
Laura :)
Well, the heat has become another member of our trip. At least, that's how it seems - it sticks to you everywhere! Being in the shade does give a little reprieve, and time at the beach (or in another smaller town) helps.
On Tuesday, after class, we met up at the Palazzo Pubblico. It's the palace which you see whenever you view pictures of Siena's Campo (main piazza in town). The front has a large sun with "IHS" on it - the symbol of one of Siena's two patron saints, San Bernardino, who brought Christianity to Siena (I think . . . but post a correction if I'm wrong). Of course, the other patron saint is Catherine, about whom we learned on Monday. The Palazzo Pubblico contains two entrances. We entered the palace itself to view the various pieces of art, collected over the centuries, as well as the infamous frescoes of the place. In one room, Becky was amazed by the art commemorating the historical events surrounding Vittorio Emanuele II, Ian thought the sleeping child sculpture was pretty cool. Brenna and Stephen absolutely soaked up all the old frescoes, which had images of the church fathers with the prophets, or the Maesta, or the Allegories of Good and Bad Government. Bravo to Trevor, who, after our artsy tour, chose to climb the Torre del Mangia, the iconic tower of Siena which is attached to the Palazzo.
After our tour, normal life came calling, and several of us went to find lavanderie where we could wash our clothes. There was a pleasant break from the sun with a few minutes of couldy skies, but, let's face it, we're all ready to have a good night's sleep in an air-conditioned room (which we'll get on Saturday). The heat is getting to the point where we're not sleeping well . . .
Today, we had a normal day of class, then, for everyone, a giorno libero. Some people chose to watch the movie of the week, which is shown in the library (Biblioteca) of the school. Some are taking care of themselves and staying out of the heat (and hiding in their homestays). And some chose to take advantage of the season which starts today in Italy - SALDI. Beginning on July 7, all stores put their stuff on"sale", hoping to sell all their summer lines out, before they close up to go off for vacation in August, and return in September to restock their stores with the winter lines. It's the day to buy!!! (Thus a free day)
Tomorrow, we're going on a fun excursion together. Through this trip, many of us have been on the noble pursuit of the best gelato experience. Fortunately, SPI gave me some funny money to spend with the group (on Siena excursions), which, so far, has given us all our entry fees. Tomorrow, immediately after class, we're going to catch a bus to a nearby town, San Gimignano. Of course, this spot has important religious significance, and the saint, Santa Fina, is a good example for youth (she actually died in her teenage years). We will visit a church with beautiful frescoes depicting the stories of the Old and New Testament, and may even attend a little bit of a Vivaldi concert, which is being held in nearby church. But, just as important, is that this town has the best gelateria NEL MONDO. At least, they have the sign to prove it. We'll see if the kiddos agree.
Friday will be our last day in class and in Siena, and the kids will get a free afternoon to have their last experiences in town. Me, I'm running off to the Fortezza to find a fresher breeze. Then, on Saturday, we will meet early (at 7 AM) for the bus to Rome, where we'll check in to our hotel and meet up with my husband, Jay. From there, we're going to do a tour of a nearby ancient, deserted town, Ostia (far nicer experience than Pompeii - not eating dust, and it's near the ocean). What a great way to end this awesome experience together, before we all return home on Sunday!
And that's exactly what this has been - a great experience for the whole group. Your kiddos have been so open-minded and adventurous, easy-going and resilient . . . I've already written a personal note to each of them (which they'll get when I give them their passports), but, parents, please know that they've been an absolute pleasure to lead this summer!!!
a dopo,
Laura :)
Monday, July 5, 2010
Selva ha vinto!!!
Buon Giorno, Tutti!
Wow, with all that has happened since my last entry, this might have to happen in a few separate entries. I had every intention to do a computer entry on Friday, but all the regular places closed up for the Palio festivities.
Thursday was a fun day - we did a tour of the Duomo of Siena (far better to visit the inside than in any other Duomo in Tuscany), and got to view the black and white fest that is the beauty of the inside of the Duomo. A side chapel contains many manuscripts of chant books, which were collected by Pope Pius II (Piccolomini), who hails from Siena. Afterwards, we all headed to Nannini's, the best bakery in town, where we got to enjoy (by my treat) a few Siennese treats, namely cantucci and vin santo. Cantucci are little cookies which look like biscotti (named thus because they're "twice baked"), but are super-hard. You have to soak them in vin santo to make them soft enough to eat, or else you could break a tooth on some of the harder versions of them. Ricarelli are soft cookies, dusted with powdered sugar, and, then, there's the Panpepato and Panforte (made with dried fruit and almond slices, with a little flour to hold it together). Yum, yum, and MORE YUM. Parents, I often encourage your kiddos to pick these up as gifts to bring home . . . we'll see if they heed my advice!
Friday was the day of the Palio. And, as always, it was a day of craziness! I had a gal in my homestay one year from Switzerland, who turned to me during the Palio, and said, "Questi Senesi, sono proprio pazzi." (These people from Siena, they are crazy in their own right.) We got out of class and they locked up the school right at 1:30, and everyone went their own way. at 2:30, many of us attended the Benedictioni at one of the contrada's churches, where they walk the rider (Fantino) and THE HORSE into the church for a blessing from their contrada's priest. Then, each contrada marches by the Monte dei Paschi (where banking was established - sponsors much of the Palio), to salute the bank, then back around town to salute the Archbishop, who is standing at his window, just juxtaposed to the Duomo. Then, they all follow down to the Campo, with the Corte Storiche (a historical procession, where people in medieval garb represent all the contrade, plus all the cities in Tuscany, as well as all the virtuous qualities)following afterwards. Everyone who hasn't paid for a seat (exorbitant - 300Euros per spot, and sold out by February) follows this procession into the Campo, like water flowing down the drain, and they wait and bake. Sooner or later, the Palio (a big flag, a new one designed each year) comes out on a cart drawn by four ENORMOUS bulls, and, once it's posted up in the corner of the Campo, the Fantini and the horses come out. Many false starts ensure, and the lineup has to be redone many times. This year, it was actually faster than usual, and the real race happened about 45 minutes before I was expecting.
And what a race!!! L'Onda started out strongly, and made the two first laps way ahead, but then . . . that crazy gray horse . . . well, you can watch it yourself:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CVBCFFN605s&feature=PlayList&p=585BA467533EF135&playnext_from=PL&index=0&playnext=1
La Carriera is the actual one. You get all the excitement - people falling from their horses, a change in leaders . . . so exciting. And, my favorite part - when it's over, the winner celebrates, and everyone else turns off the TV and starts dinner, as if it were just another program. Don't worry. Selva has been partying. EVERY NIGHT. My window is 100 meters from the border between Aquila and Selva. Grazie a Dio for earplugs. They will do this for a while - they have bragging rights for this Palio until next July. There is another one of these in August, but it's considered a totally separate event, and that winner will, also, have bragging rights until the next August.
On Saturday, we went to Florence for a day of learning about art and architecture, and what a great day! SPI booked reservations, so we got to enjoy some strolling time, then went right into the museums at our reserved times! We got to see the Primavera and birth of Venus by Botticelli in the Uffizi (and my favorite statue, Laocoon, the priest of Troy), and we got to see i prigioneri and the David at the Accademia. We discussed the idea of seeing motion in sculpture, and we even got to enjoy a little bit of shopping! But, with the heat which has settled into Tuscany, we were all happy to get onto our bus with A/C and get back in time for dinner at the homestays.
On Sunday, we had our giorno libero. Beach time for the kiddos, and they had a great time! And the sunburns are none too bad, as well (yay!). We will get a little optional beach time on Saturday, too, when we have our last day in Rome. We'll see if they want to do it by then . . .
Today was back to class and regular schedules. We did a nice walk to some sacred places in town (to see spots relevant to St. Catherine of Siena), as well as a walk to some fresher spots. As we parted from each other, some thunderheads were forming in the distance. While I've sat here, the guy at the internet spot claims that it started raining, but I don't believe it, unless I feel it! They say that the heat index in Florence today is at 41 gradi (which is close to 110 degrees F), and it's never much different in Siena. Get me to the Fortezza, quick!!! Mom and Dad, I'm totally camping out at the pool when I get back . . .
We were talking this weekend, and can't believe we're halfway through this trip! Becky just made the comment to me, today, as we were passing a group of visiting tourists, that she doesn't feel like she's a tourist - she feels like she has more an attachment to Siena. Indeed, we are all feeling more like locals at this point.
More to share once we've done it!
pax,
Laura :)
Wow, with all that has happened since my last entry, this might have to happen in a few separate entries. I had every intention to do a computer entry on Friday, but all the regular places closed up for the Palio festivities.
Thursday was a fun day - we did a tour of the Duomo of Siena (far better to visit the inside than in any other Duomo in Tuscany), and got to view the black and white fest that is the beauty of the inside of the Duomo. A side chapel contains many manuscripts of chant books, which were collected by Pope Pius II (Piccolomini), who hails from Siena. Afterwards, we all headed to Nannini's, the best bakery in town, where we got to enjoy (by my treat) a few Siennese treats, namely cantucci and vin santo. Cantucci are little cookies which look like biscotti (named thus because they're "twice baked"), but are super-hard. You have to soak them in vin santo to make them soft enough to eat, or else you could break a tooth on some of the harder versions of them. Ricarelli are soft cookies, dusted with powdered sugar, and, then, there's the Panpepato and Panforte (made with dried fruit and almond slices, with a little flour to hold it together). Yum, yum, and MORE YUM. Parents, I often encourage your kiddos to pick these up as gifts to bring home . . . we'll see if they heed my advice!
Friday was the day of the Palio. And, as always, it was a day of craziness! I had a gal in my homestay one year from Switzerland, who turned to me during the Palio, and said, "Questi Senesi, sono proprio pazzi." (These people from Siena, they are crazy in their own right.) We got out of class and they locked up the school right at 1:30, and everyone went their own way. at 2:30, many of us attended the Benedictioni at one of the contrada's churches, where they walk the rider (Fantino) and THE HORSE into the church for a blessing from their contrada's priest. Then, each contrada marches by the Monte dei Paschi (where banking was established - sponsors much of the Palio), to salute the bank, then back around town to salute the Archbishop, who is standing at his window, just juxtaposed to the Duomo. Then, they all follow down to the Campo, with the Corte Storiche (a historical procession, where people in medieval garb represent all the contrade, plus all the cities in Tuscany, as well as all the virtuous qualities)following afterwards. Everyone who hasn't paid for a seat (exorbitant - 300Euros per spot, and sold out by February) follows this procession into the Campo, like water flowing down the drain, and they wait and bake. Sooner or later, the Palio (a big flag, a new one designed each year) comes out on a cart drawn by four ENORMOUS bulls, and, once it's posted up in the corner of the Campo, the Fantini and the horses come out. Many false starts ensure, and the lineup has to be redone many times. This year, it was actually faster than usual, and the real race happened about 45 minutes before I was expecting.
And what a race!!! L'Onda started out strongly, and made the two first laps way ahead, but then . . . that crazy gray horse . . . well, you can watch it yourself:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CVBCFFN605s&feature=PlayList&p=585BA467533EF135&playnext_from=PL&index=0&playnext=1
La Carriera is the actual one. You get all the excitement - people falling from their horses, a change in leaders . . . so exciting. And, my favorite part - when it's over, the winner celebrates, and everyone else turns off the TV and starts dinner, as if it were just another program. Don't worry. Selva has been partying. EVERY NIGHT. My window is 100 meters from the border between Aquila and Selva. Grazie a Dio for earplugs. They will do this for a while - they have bragging rights for this Palio until next July. There is another one of these in August, but it's considered a totally separate event, and that winner will, also, have bragging rights until the next August.
On Saturday, we went to Florence for a day of learning about art and architecture, and what a great day! SPI booked reservations, so we got to enjoy some strolling time, then went right into the museums at our reserved times! We got to see the Primavera and birth of Venus by Botticelli in the Uffizi (and my favorite statue, Laocoon, the priest of Troy), and we got to see i prigioneri and the David at the Accademia. We discussed the idea of seeing motion in sculpture, and we even got to enjoy a little bit of shopping! But, with the heat which has settled into Tuscany, we were all happy to get onto our bus with A/C and get back in time for dinner at the homestays.
On Sunday, we had our giorno libero. Beach time for the kiddos, and they had a great time! And the sunburns are none too bad, as well (yay!). We will get a little optional beach time on Saturday, too, when we have our last day in Rome. We'll see if they want to do it by then . . .
Today was back to class and regular schedules. We did a nice walk to some sacred places in town (to see spots relevant to St. Catherine of Siena), as well as a walk to some fresher spots. As we parted from each other, some thunderheads were forming in the distance. While I've sat here, the guy at the internet spot claims that it started raining, but I don't believe it, unless I feel it! They say that the heat index in Florence today is at 41 gradi (which is close to 110 degrees F), and it's never much different in Siena. Get me to the Fortezza, quick!!! Mom and Dad, I'm totally camping out at the pool when I get back . . .
We were talking this weekend, and can't believe we're halfway through this trip! Becky just made the comment to me, today, as we were passing a group of visiting tourists, that she doesn't feel like she's a tourist - she feels like she has more an attachment to Siena. Indeed, we are all feeling more like locals at this point.
More to share once we've done it!
pax,
Laura :)
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Il Palio
It's official - we're in the center of the craziest place in the world, or so it feels . . . the Palio events started yesterday, and oh, are they fun!
Yesterday was the Tratta, where they pair the horse to the jockey (who has been previously chosen by each competing Contrada - neighborhood). People sweat and stand in the sun in the Campo to watch this - men paired with good horses are yelling and cheering; men paired with weaker horses are crying and moping. Publicly. Seriously. But, as my teacher says, with the Palio, you never know who might be the winner. Sometimes the weakest or least experienced horse can win. Nicchio ("the Shell" Contrada) has, by far, the strongest horse, as shown at last night's test run - the first one - the Prima Prova. There's this grey horse (Il Griglio) which has been in the race before, too, which Selva ("the Forest") has, and the beast has some serious spirit to it. A few years ago, during one of the prove, he threw his rider and turned around and ran the wrong way around the track. Ah, the fun of the Palio!
Our group missed the Tratta yesterday, because we got to enjoy our pizza-making class (gift of SPI to our group) at the cooking school, which is located in the bottom floor of our school. Normally, they have classes on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, where DA students can attend to help make food. They opened the kitchen specially for us for yesterday's lunch time. We made some fabulous stuff, even if I say so. Luke and Stephen both admitted that they'll want to make bruschetta al pomodoro again, Trevor enjoyed the bruschetta al' formaggio (on which we could put anchovies, too - YUM), all the boys enjoyed the pizza with prosciutto and salami, Brenna and Becky devoured the pizza ai funghi, and I watched Ian inhale his tiramisu. We are all cooking MASTERS now!
Today, there are two more Prove - one this morning, while we're in class, and another this evening. But you can find things happening throughout the town intermittently - I just passed a large group of women, all from the same contrada (you know because they all are wearing their contrada's scarf around their necks), strolling through town and singing songs. All of the contrada members join together to improve the spirit in favor of their horse. During this time, it's not uncommon for married couples to move back in with their families, if they're from different contradas, and even best friends, if from different contradas, will have nothing to do with each other during this time. It's all madness to me . . .
Today, after class, we did some touring as a group. This year is a big celebration year of the beginning of the Rinascimento (Italian Renaissance), so Siena offers tickets to places for SUPER cheap (plus discounts to students). We toured the Museum of the works of the Duomo, and tomorrow, we'll be visiting the Duomo, herself. Be sure to ask your kiddo to see some of their pictures off the Facciatone (what, I think, is the best view in Siena, even though my husband thinks the Torre del Mangia is better - next week we go there). Tomorrow, we have class, and then we will head to visit the Duomo with the same ticket which I bought for them today (again, thanks to SPI)! Then, on Friday, PALIO!!!!!
pace,
Laura ;)
Yesterday was the Tratta, where they pair the horse to the jockey (who has been previously chosen by each competing Contrada - neighborhood). People sweat and stand in the sun in the Campo to watch this - men paired with good horses are yelling and cheering; men paired with weaker horses are crying and moping. Publicly. Seriously. But, as my teacher says, with the Palio, you never know who might be the winner. Sometimes the weakest or least experienced horse can win. Nicchio ("the Shell" Contrada) has, by far, the strongest horse, as shown at last night's test run - the first one - the Prima Prova. There's this grey horse (Il Griglio) which has been in the race before, too, which Selva ("the Forest") has, and the beast has some serious spirit to it. A few years ago, during one of the prove, he threw his rider and turned around and ran the wrong way around the track. Ah, the fun of the Palio!
Our group missed the Tratta yesterday, because we got to enjoy our pizza-making class (gift of SPI to our group) at the cooking school, which is located in the bottom floor of our school. Normally, they have classes on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, where DA students can attend to help make food. They opened the kitchen specially for us for yesterday's lunch time. We made some fabulous stuff, even if I say so. Luke and Stephen both admitted that they'll want to make bruschetta al pomodoro again, Trevor enjoyed the bruschetta al' formaggio (on which we could put anchovies, too - YUM), all the boys enjoyed the pizza with prosciutto and salami, Brenna and Becky devoured the pizza ai funghi, and I watched Ian inhale his tiramisu. We are all cooking MASTERS now!
Today, there are two more Prove - one this morning, while we're in class, and another this evening. But you can find things happening throughout the town intermittently - I just passed a large group of women, all from the same contrada (you know because they all are wearing their contrada's scarf around their necks), strolling through town and singing songs. All of the contrada members join together to improve the spirit in favor of their horse. During this time, it's not uncommon for married couples to move back in with their families, if they're from different contradas, and even best friends, if from different contradas, will have nothing to do with each other during this time. It's all madness to me . . .
Today, after class, we did some touring as a group. This year is a big celebration year of the beginning of the Rinascimento (Italian Renaissance), so Siena offers tickets to places for SUPER cheap (plus discounts to students). We toured the Museum of the works of the Duomo, and tomorrow, we'll be visiting the Duomo, herself. Be sure to ask your kiddo to see some of their pictures off the Facciatone (what, I think, is the best view in Siena, even though my husband thinks the Torre del Mangia is better - next week we go there). Tomorrow, we have class, and then we will head to visit the Duomo with the same ticket which I bought for them today (again, thanks to SPI)! Then, on Friday, PALIO!!!!!
pace,
Laura ;)
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Siamo Arrivati!!!
Buon Giorno, Tutti!
Ah, what a weekend! We arrived into Fiumicino, with everyone quickly meeting up and rushing to grab the Termini Express. With a slight delay (KUDOS to Luke's Italian teacher - he was able to handle what could have been a very difficult situation with a little Italian and a lot of diligence), we strolled to our hotel, just a block or two from Termini, and checked in. Hotel Diana even had rooms available for us, so we got 10 minutes to drop off bags, splash water on us, and meet back downstairs. By my advice, we didn't break to shower or rest - gotta get our bodies ready for the time change! We grabbed some pizza al taglio, and headed to our ancient day (students have a brochure of a description of every sight we saw, but it was in backwards order!). After 6 solid hours on our feet (going from shade spot to shade spot, right guys?), we hopped the Metro back to Termini, and the kids quickly learned why I prefer to avoid the Metro (ah, the humanity! Ah, the humidity!). We returned for a few hours of shower and rest, and then went to dinner at Pancrazio's, which stands over foundations of the Theatre of Pompey. Full of fabulous food, tired and drained, we stumbled back to the hotel and crashed. But not for long . . .
Saturday morning, we rose and did a morning stroll through the rest of Rome, starting at the Piazza del Popolo and going all the way around to the Vatican. We split up right after grabbing more pizza al taglio - some went to the Vatican museums, others to the Castel Sant' Angelo. We all met back up in the Piazza di San Pietro, and flew through the line into the Vatican. The place was packed, and much was blocked off, with seating in there - this week is the summer holy week for the Catholic church, beginning on June 24 with the Feast of St. John the Baptist, and ending on the 29th (or on the 2nd in Siena - PALIO) with the Feast of Sts. Peter and Paul. Again, stumbled on our blistered and swollen feet back to the hotel (the kids figured out the bus system pretty quickly) to rest, before heading to Montecarlo Pizzeria. Hope they enjoyed my treat of the misti fritti appetizers - Trevor liked the potato croquettes, Stephen, Becky, and Brenna liked the stuffed fior di zucca (zucchini flowers), and Luke and Ian enjoyed the suppli (arancini) - balls of a mixture of rice and tomato paste, wrapped around a ball of cheese, and breaded and fried. Good sleep that night, good rest on Sunday morning, and, after 3 hours of bus ride, we were in Siena!
We covered every tourist location in Rome, and in 36 hours flat (and, hopefully, got some sleep). Needless to say, my feet were protesting by this morning. Everyone is in their placement tests right now, and classes start at 9! Palio events start tomorrow - so much to share with you in our next blog!!!
This is a shorter one - other students waiting to use the computer - gotta go!
Pace,
Laura :)
Ah, what a weekend! We arrived into Fiumicino, with everyone quickly meeting up and rushing to grab the Termini Express. With a slight delay (KUDOS to Luke's Italian teacher - he was able to handle what could have been a very difficult situation with a little Italian and a lot of diligence), we strolled to our hotel, just a block or two from Termini, and checked in. Hotel Diana even had rooms available for us, so we got 10 minutes to drop off bags, splash water on us, and meet back downstairs. By my advice, we didn't break to shower or rest - gotta get our bodies ready for the time change! We grabbed some pizza al taglio, and headed to our ancient day (students have a brochure of a description of every sight we saw, but it was in backwards order!). After 6 solid hours on our feet (going from shade spot to shade spot, right guys?), we hopped the Metro back to Termini, and the kids quickly learned why I prefer to avoid the Metro (ah, the humanity! Ah, the humidity!). We returned for a few hours of shower and rest, and then went to dinner at Pancrazio's, which stands over foundations of the Theatre of Pompey. Full of fabulous food, tired and drained, we stumbled back to the hotel and crashed. But not for long . . .
Saturday morning, we rose and did a morning stroll through the rest of Rome, starting at the Piazza del Popolo and going all the way around to the Vatican. We split up right after grabbing more pizza al taglio - some went to the Vatican museums, others to the Castel Sant' Angelo. We all met back up in the Piazza di San Pietro, and flew through the line into the Vatican. The place was packed, and much was blocked off, with seating in there - this week is the summer holy week for the Catholic church, beginning on June 24 with the Feast of St. John the Baptist, and ending on the 29th (or on the 2nd in Siena - PALIO) with the Feast of Sts. Peter and Paul. Again, stumbled on our blistered and swollen feet back to the hotel (the kids figured out the bus system pretty quickly) to rest, before heading to Montecarlo Pizzeria. Hope they enjoyed my treat of the misti fritti appetizers - Trevor liked the potato croquettes, Stephen, Becky, and Brenna liked the stuffed fior di zucca (zucchini flowers), and Luke and Ian enjoyed the suppli (arancini) - balls of a mixture of rice and tomato paste, wrapped around a ball of cheese, and breaded and fried. Good sleep that night, good rest on Sunday morning, and, after 3 hours of bus ride, we were in Siena!
We covered every tourist location in Rome, and in 36 hours flat (and, hopefully, got some sleep). Needless to say, my feet were protesting by this morning. Everyone is in their placement tests right now, and classes start at 9! Palio events start tomorrow - so much to share with you in our next blog!!!
This is a shorter one - other students waiting to use the computer - gotta go!
Pace,
Laura :)
Monday, June 21, 2010
Last-minute Packing Hints
Steven just sent me a great e-mail, which caused me to realize that I needed to post one last blog before we depart!
"Laura, can the boys wear shorts on Saturday in Rome when you will tour some churches? What about at the Vatican?"
When I travel internationally, I always pack one outfit and basic toiletries into my carry-on (backpack), just in case bags are lost. Seeing as our second day is a day of touring Rome, including visiting the Vatican, you might want to make sure your carry-on outfit suits the Vatican Fashion Police Rules: SHOULDERS AND KNEES COVERED; NO EXCESSIVE CLEAVAGE
I plan to pack a t-shirt and skirt which hangs below my knees. Girls, if you want to wear sleeveless shirts, please back a beach wrap/scarf to cover your shoulders and front. Guys, usually men's shorts are long enough for the fashion police (as they are longer than your knees), but if you're in doubt, pack comfortable slacks. Please, guys, no "daisy dukes", okay? EVER?
And, of course, pack anything you can't live without:
- important daily medications (with a copy of your prescription)
- passport
- comforts for sleeping on the 'plane - earplugs, inflatable neck pillow
Hugs to you all! See you on Thursday or Friday!!!!
pax,
Laura :)
Monday, June 14, 2010
Countdown!!!
Okay, it's getting serious. We're now ten days away from departure!!! I'm putting something little in the mail for you tomorrow (you should receive it by Friday), to make your flights a little more pleasant. Dallas-based guys, I so look forward to meeting you tomorrow evening! It's been forever since I have eaten at Lovers' Lane Pizza . . . almost a whole YEAR . . .
Let's talk about our arrival weekend! (forgive me for not using specific names - my best way to use anonymity on the 'net) Three of you will be on the flight with me; three of you will arrive on your own. Two of you already know where to meet me (just outside of customs), and one of you arrives just 15 minutes after our flight, so we can meet up before exiting customs. If we're all wearing the SPI shirts, it will be SO easy to find each other, and then we can promptly head to the center of the city. And please expect to get the customary "two kisses" - it's a normal way for family/friends to greet!
As soon as we've all gathered together outside of customs, we'll walk through the airport to the train station, which will consist of walking down a few corridors, then down one flight of escalators, then back up three flights. (a side note: I so appreciate how American-based airports have gotten the cue from European airports, and incorporate their local transportation system into the airports - made it so easy to get around Atlanta . . . DFW will be there soon - the Trinity River Railway is a good start) We'll have a moment to pause - you can get a snack or bottle of water - while I buy the tickets for the next Termini Express. We'll queue up for our first experience of public transportation, hop onto the train, and sit together to ride in to the center of Rome. When we arrive, we'll have to walk through the entire train station, then a few blocks away to our hotel.
We're staying at a NICE, four-star, hotel located near Termini. We usually stay in a different area of town, but Jeremy found this spot, and, after receiving my approval, booked it. He loves us few Italy crew . . . Our check-in will be quick (like, just enough time to find a place to put our bags, and slap on deodorant and brush teeth), and we'll be off! We will do the Ancient Roman sites today, and mostly on foot. It's the perfect thing to do on the first day of arrival into an international location - dusty, hot touring. You're blessed to have an Italo-phile who has lived in Rome, and whose favorite area of study is Roman topography. I know the right places to sit in the shade and take in the sights, will take you to some of the best spots for great pictures, and will share with you a taste of history with which I'm so familiar. After a day's worth of touring, we'll return to the hotel for showers and rejuvenating before heading to dinner at Pancrazio's, a historically-significant restaurant (and a good one, at that). We'll spend a little time hanging out in the Campo dei fiori, then return back to the hotel to crash.
On Saturday, we'll get up early (I'll insist everyone eat a good breakfast, and be sure you're dressed appropriately - we enter many churches today), then we'll be off for a stroll through Medieval/Renaissance Rome (with a few ancient spots thrown in). Seriously, guys, the amount of ground we cover between Friday afternoon and Saturday morning is equivalent to what most tour groups cover in a week. Students in the past have complained of a "death march" . . . I don't know what they're talking about. It's a thorough touring experience. You'll have time for lunch on your own at the Piazza Navona, then we head to our individual museum experiences (some to Vatican Museums, some to Castel Sant' Angelo . . . all of us to Old Bridge Gelateria beforehand). After a few hours, we'll meet back up at the Piazza di San Pietro, and visit one of the four Major Basilicas of Rome, the Basilica di San Pietro, or, better known, the Vatican. After ample time at the Vatican, we'll return to the hotel to clean up, and head to a great pizzeria in town, then time for hanging out at the Piazza Navona.
Sunday morning, you have time on your own. We are staying just down the way from another one of the four Major Basilicas - Sta. Maria Maggiore - whomever would like to join me for Mass can do so. Maybe you'll want to go to Porta Portese, the huge market, before services? Maybe you want to get one last view of the Forum before we depart Rome? You'll have until 1:30 PM, when we'll meet to taxi to Tiburtina Station (bus/metro/train), where we'll catch a direct bus to Siena. During this ride, we'll chat about expectations and questions regarding our first day or two in Siena. When we disembark the bus at the Siena Statione FS, we'll meet and greet our homestay families, and head home for dinner and our first night in Siena!
It may be a quick glimpse of Rome, but, then again, my goal is for you to want to return! :)
Please feel free to send me more questions, either through this blog or through my personal e-mail! This one might just be my last entry before we meet next Thursday!
Hugs to you all!
Laura :)
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Travel Stress/Jetlag/Culture Shock
Ciao, Tutti!
Ah, so happy to be in summer mode now! And, as my husband can attest, my brain has switched into full Italy-planning mode . . . it’s like a
new life is being breathed into me! Jeremy sent out the final packet
of stuff for our trip, which has me totally pumped!!! With the
exchange rate being so strong, we’re getting to do things we’ve never
done before in the SPI Italy program! But I don’t share all my
secrets at once. You’ll just have to wait to find out as we enjoy the
trip together . . .
Parents, your kiddos may experience either one of these while we’re on
the trip. Usually, it happens during the first week (also during
which, by the way, we are thrown into the midst of the frenzy of the
Palio). In my Departure Info Powerpoint, I included a slide of “what
they say/what they mean” to help you realize some of the things you
can expect to hear from your kiddo.
Ah, so happy to be in summer mode now! And, as my husband can attest, my brain has switched into full Italy-planning mode . . . it’s like a
new life is being breathed into me! Jeremy sent out the final packet
of stuff for our trip, which has me totally pumped!!! With the
exchange rate being so strong, we’re getting to do things we’ve never
done before in the SPI Italy program! But I don’t share all my
secrets at once. You’ll just have to wait to find out as we enjoy the
trip together . . .
Parents, this entry is for you. Please take my best intentions to
heart, and know that I share this with you as a veteran teacher who
stands in loco tuo.
heart, and know that I share this with you as a veteran teacher who
stands in loco tuo.
Stress. It’s such a funny beast. We all live with it, and some of us
thrive better while under pressure, while others of us aren’t such big
fans of the inconveniences of stress (I’ll admit, I’m in the latter
group). I was part of a stress-management group on a faculty where I
worked once. The first time we met, we did a survey to assess factors
which most cause stress. There are sources of good stress, and
sources of bad stress, and often one source could give you good or bad
stress, depending on how it affects you and when it hits. Some of the
biggest sources of stress? Change of schedule, change of living
situations/environments, change of eating habits . . . all of which
you endure when travelling.
thrive better while under pressure, while others of us aren’t such big
fans of the inconveniences of stress (I’ll admit, I’m in the latter
group). I was part of a stress-management group on a faculty where I
worked once. The first time we met, we did a survey to assess factors
which most cause stress. There are sources of good stress, and
sources of bad stress, and often one source could give you good or bad
stress, depending on how it affects you and when it hits. Some of the
biggest sources of stress? Change of schedule, change of living
situations/environments, change of eating habits . . . all of which
you endure when travelling.
You’ve seen your child endure stress before, in whatever forms it
rears its nasty head. For anyone who has done extensive travel
before, you know that you endure both a physical and emotional strain.
Stress manifests itself in various ways for travellers:
rears its nasty head. For anyone who has done extensive travel
before, you know that you endure both a physical and emotional strain.
Stress manifests itself in various ways for travellers:
1. Jet Lag – maybe you know this malady from the hung-over feeling
you have for a few days following a time change. They say that it
takes you as many days to get over jet lag as the amount of hours’
difference on your body (e.g. from Dallas to Rome is 7 hours’
difference; thus, it will take a week on either side to truly
rehabilitate from jet lag. ICK). Jet Lag isn’t just a lazy
sleepiness; it can show up as various forms of indigestion, nausea,
and dehydration, and it can affect your nerves, bringing on
irritability and impatience. Some of the nastiest jet lag I’ve
suffered was after a flight between Dallas and Spokane (WA), so don’t
think this happens only on international experiences.
you have for a few days following a time change. They say that it
takes you as many days to get over jet lag as the amount of hours’
difference on your body (e.g. from Dallas to Rome is 7 hours’
difference; thus, it will take a week on either side to truly
rehabilitate from jet lag. ICK). Jet Lag isn’t just a lazy
sleepiness; it can show up as various forms of indigestion, nausea,
and dehydration, and it can affect your nerves, bringing on
irritability and impatience. Some of the nastiest jet lag I’ve
suffered was after a flight between Dallas and Spokane (WA), so don’t
think this happens only on international experiences.
2. Culture Shock – this, too, isn’t just in your mind. When you find
yourself in a new home, forced to utilize a new/vaguely familiar
language, having to live on a schedule you’re not used to, discovering
various minor inconveniences . . . well, add a little bit of jet lag
to this, and you can have a vicious monster. Even the smallest things
will set someone off, and I’ve even seen students who refuse to sleep
or eat (REALLY!?!?! Not eating in ITALY??? REALLY!?!?!).
yourself in a new home, forced to utilize a new/vaguely familiar
language, having to live on a schedule you’re not used to, discovering
various minor inconveniences . . . well, add a little bit of jet lag
to this, and you can have a vicious monster. Even the smallest things
will set someone off, and I’ve even seen students who refuse to sleep
or eat (REALLY!?!?! Not eating in ITALY??? REALLY!?!?!).
Parents, your kiddos may experience either one of these while we’re on
the trip. Usually, it happens during the first week (also during
which, by the way, we are thrown into the midst of the frenzy of the
Palio). In my Departure Info Powerpoint, I included a slide of “what
they say/what they mean” to help you realize some of the things you
can expect to hear from your kiddo.
I have two questions which are applicable to most challenging
situations while we’re on this trip:
1. Is this a stupid mistake, or is it self-destructive behavior? (if
it’s a repeat offense, it’s the latter, always – BTW, Parents, if
there’s a behavior I should monitor, please feel free to contact me
privately),
AND
2. Are you uncomfortable, or are you inconvenienced?
situations while we’re on this trip:
1. Is this a stupid mistake, or is it self-destructive behavior? (if
it’s a repeat offense, it’s the latter, always – BTW, Parents, if
there’s a behavior I should monitor, please feel free to contact me
privately),
AND
2. Are you uncomfortable, or are you inconvenienced?
When your student expresses frustration at the trip, appreciate the
fact that they’re trying to share their emotions with you. If
something sounds severe or inappropriate, of course you should contact
SPI. But please remember that you have entrusted your kiddo to the
SPI program and a veteran teacher like me, and I’m talking with your
kiddo constantly, always making sure that they are safe and
comfortable. If it’s something which only I can handle locally, know
that I’m probably already on it.
fact that they’re trying to share their emotions with you. If
something sounds severe or inappropriate, of course you should contact
SPI. But please remember that you have entrusted your kiddo to the
SPI program and a veteran teacher like me, and I’m talking with your
kiddo constantly, always making sure that they are safe and
comfortable. If it’s something which only I can handle locally, know
that I’m probably already on it.
Again, contact SPI if:
1. Something illegal or inappropriate is happening, and I don’t know
about it; OR
2. Something amazing and wonderful is happening – Celeste and Jeremy
TOTALLY need to hear these things!!!
1. Something illegal or inappropriate is happening, and I don’t know
about it; OR
2. Something amazing and wonderful is happening – Celeste and Jeremy
TOTALLY need to hear these things!!!
Hugs to you all!
Peace,
Laura :)
Laura :)
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Italian Republic Day - June 2
Okay, just had to do one more cultural one:
In 1946, Italians voted to abolish the monarchy and establish a Republic. Today, President Napolitano lays a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is located at the Vittorio Emanuele monument which beautifies the Piazza Venezia (to call it a "wedding cake" is so gauche). Then, there is a parade leading from there down along the Via dei Fori Imperiali towards the Colosseum, with the Italian Air Force's honor color squadron ("Frecce Tricolori") flying above to display a path of green, white, and red smoke. The day is closed with concert performances by military bands at the Palazzo Quirinale, Napolitano's official residence.
Ah, Italia . . .
L :)
In 1946, Italians voted to abolish the monarchy and establish a Republic. Today, President Napolitano lays a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is located at the Vittorio Emanuele monument which beautifies the Piazza Venezia (to call it a "wedding cake" is so gauche). Then, there is a parade leading from there down along the Via dei Fori Imperiali towards the Colosseum, with the Italian Air Force's honor color squadron ("Frecce Tricolori") flying above to display a path of green, white, and red smoke. The day is closed with concert performances by military bands at the Palazzo Quirinale, Napolitano's official residence.
Ah, Italia . . .
L :)
Euros
Business topic - quick chat about cash management and handling. (I've got time - totally caught up on essay scoring for final exams - don't need to hear about Life of Pi for a while)
You have several options for how to carry non-cash money for a trip:
N.B. * - I encourage this!
***1. Debit card (check card), attached to an account which parents can view and control -
Benefits:there are Bancomats everywhere in Italy (heck, Siena is the spot of origin for banking!), and you only pay your bank's ATM fee to withdraw (no payment for exchange). If a child gets low on money, you can control the account. If they see some fabulous expensive thing you'd want, you can control the account. :)
Downside: you have to keep an eye on their account
2. Travelers cheques.
Dollars: You can get these from any financial institution
Benefit: You have leftover travelers' cheques in dollars if your kiddo doesn't spend them all.
Downsides: your kiddo loses money in the exchange and in the fees ($10-15 on every $100), and they spend most of their time looking for deals at exchange spots
Euros: You can get these from exchange groups like Travelex (there are three in the Dallas area alone, one in Preston Center).
Benefit: Less money to lose in exchange
Downside: The only hinderance your kiddo has is finding a vendor who is willing to take them, and then pay back the kiddo in leftover cash. Usually, banks will allow you to get cash for exchanging them, but, again, there might be a fee. Also, if not everything is spent, you have to pay for the exchange back to dollars
3. "Cash Passport" - Travelex has started offering these, where you can buy a debit card which is pre-charged with Euros (rather than a home bank's card, attached to your account of dollars).
Benefits: Less money lost when using Bancomats ($1-3 per use)
Downside: If not everything is spent, you have a useless money card sitting at home
If you want to pre-purchase cash itself for a trip, this will have to be done at an exchange location (or at a bank which functions internationally, like Citibank). With the way the Euro is falling, it might be better to just wait until we arrive into Rome to get cash from the Bancomat. But if you're just wanting a little security, I can tell you that Travelex is RIGHT NOW offering a coupon online for a $0 service charge when you get Euros-cash at their store: http://www.us.travelex.com/US/Home/ Also, Citibank offers deals on exchange for people who are Gold card members. Other groups may be offering deals, but I'm just not aware of them - feel free to comment on this blog if you know of one!
Off to more final exams!
grazie,
Laura :)
You have several options for how to carry non-cash money for a trip:
N.B. * - I encourage this!
***1. Debit card (check card), attached to an account which parents can view and control -
Benefits:there are Bancomats everywhere in Italy (heck, Siena is the spot of origin for banking!), and you only pay your bank's ATM fee to withdraw (no payment for exchange). If a child gets low on money, you can control the account. If they see some fabulous expensive thing you'd want, you can control the account. :)
Downside: you have to keep an eye on their account
2. Travelers cheques.
Dollars: You can get these from any financial institution
Benefit: You have leftover travelers' cheques in dollars if your kiddo doesn't spend them all.
Downsides: your kiddo loses money in the exchange and in the fees ($10-15 on every $100), and they spend most of their time looking for deals at exchange spots
Euros: You can get these from exchange groups like Travelex (there are three in the Dallas area alone, one in Preston Center).
Benefit: Less money to lose in exchange
Downside: The only hinderance your kiddo has is finding a vendor who is willing to take them, and then pay back the kiddo in leftover cash. Usually, banks will allow you to get cash for exchanging them, but, again, there might be a fee. Also, if not everything is spent, you have to pay for the exchange back to dollars
3. "Cash Passport" - Travelex has started offering these, where you can buy a debit card which is pre-charged with Euros (rather than a home bank's card, attached to your account of dollars).
Benefits: Less money lost when using Bancomats ($1-3 per use)
Downside: If not everything is spent, you have a useless money card sitting at home
If you want to pre-purchase cash itself for a trip, this will have to be done at an exchange location (or at a bank which functions internationally, like Citibank). With the way the Euro is falling, it might be better to just wait until we arrive into Rome to get cash from the Bancomat. But if you're just wanting a little security, I can tell you that Travelex is RIGHT NOW offering a coupon online for a $0 service charge when you get Euros-cash at their store: http://www.us.travelex.com/US/Home/ Also, Citibank offers deals on exchange for people who are Gold card members. Other groups may be offering deals, but I'm just not aware of them - feel free to comment on this blog if you know of one!
Off to more final exams!
grazie,
Laura :)
Toscana
Buon Giorno, Tutti!
WOW - can you believe we're less than a month away from departure? How quickly this Spring has flown by! Don't know what it's like in your part of the country, but it just got HOT in Texas this week . . . just in time for hanging out by a pool or at the lake . . . did you know that the highs in Siena this week are in the mid- to upper 70's, with occasional rain storms? Or so they forecast . . .
Which brings me to our middle weekend during our trip. If you'll remember, my last post was about Ostia, which we'll visit on our last day before departure (and stay in Rome our last night). Our middle weekend promises to offer culture, travel, and a little time on your own! This weekend, we take in the sights of Tuscany, and the amazing history and art which has emerged from this part of the world.
Now, don't get me wrong - Rome truly is my heartbeat, and I will always have a personal tie to Roma. However, after my first stay in Tuscany in 2004, I was HOOKED - every town is so beautifully enchanting and historically intriguing! It's no wonder this region was the epicenter of the Renaissance . . . and we get to experience all of the greatest parts of it in one weekend!
On Friday, July 2 (a month from today - SERIOUSLY), the Siennese celebrate the Palio di Provenzano, in honor of Madonna di Provenzano, who has a church in town. I'll share so much about the Palio with you during our stay there (and you'll learn more from your teachers than even I know), and, parents, you'll get all the information in this blog. Needless to say, the afternoon offers much pomp, and then we have the fun of enduring 3 hours of false starts before the actual 1.5 minute race. Thank goodness for those giant Litre water bottles!
Then, on Saturday, July 3, we venture on a day of Firenze. While we will visit the Uffizi and the Accademia (thank you, SPI, for paying for reservations!!!), we'll also have open time for you to visit other locations you'd like to see. Maybe you want to see Galileo's index finger at the Museum of Science and History? Perhaps view the frescoes in Santa Maria Novella? I always make my stop by the Farmacia di SMN (located right behind the church) to pick up their amazing perfumed soaps -and other elixirs - for family gifts. Or perhaps you want to visit one of the other grand churches in town? Santa Croce and the Duomo, with its Baptistry, are both beautiful in their own right (even if I think Siena's Duomo is grander). Then, of course, there's the leather market out near San Lorenzo (yet another historical and amazing church), and one always must fulfill their search for the best gelato by visiting some of the stars: Vivoli, Carabe, Festival del Gelato . . .. Needless to say, there's so much to do in such a brief day! Fortunately, since buses leave every hour for Siena, we can stay as long as we want that day (as long as we've told our homestays in advance that we'll be not eating at home that night)!
After such an intense touring day, you might be tempted to sit around your homestay on Sunday (July 4), but I will encourage you to discover other parts of Tuscany! In fact, you'll receive a brochure (one of many - I make them for every non-Siena excursion we have) on your many options for your free day. Want to head to the beach? Maybe visit Assisi? Perhaps you didn't get enough of Florence? Or do you want to stand next to the Leaning Tower in Pisa? I've even seen a few Twilight fans make a "pilgrimage" to Volterra, and a few history buffs head out to see the Roman Amphitheatre in Arezzo, or go down to Chiusi to see the Etruscan Tombs. SO many options! If you've been encouraged to visit San Gimignano, I'll suggest you wait on that one - we're going to do an afternoon optional excursion to San Gimignano during our second week in Siena.
What great opportunities abound during our time in Italy! Let me know what you're most excited about seeing!
a piu tarde,
Laura
WOW - can you believe we're less than a month away from departure? How quickly this Spring has flown by! Don't know what it's like in your part of the country, but it just got HOT in Texas this week . . . just in time for hanging out by a pool or at the lake . . . did you know that the highs in Siena this week are in the mid- to upper 70's, with occasional rain storms? Or so they forecast . . .
Which brings me to our middle weekend during our trip. If you'll remember, my last post was about Ostia, which we'll visit on our last day before departure (and stay in Rome our last night). Our middle weekend promises to offer culture, travel, and a little time on your own! This weekend, we take in the sights of Tuscany, and the amazing history and art which has emerged from this part of the world.
Now, don't get me wrong - Rome truly is my heartbeat, and I will always have a personal tie to Roma. However, after my first stay in Tuscany in 2004, I was HOOKED - every town is so beautifully enchanting and historically intriguing! It's no wonder this region was the epicenter of the Renaissance . . . and we get to experience all of the greatest parts of it in one weekend!
On Friday, July 2 (a month from today - SERIOUSLY), the Siennese celebrate the Palio di Provenzano, in honor of Madonna di Provenzano, who has a church in town. I'll share so much about the Palio with you during our stay there (and you'll learn more from your teachers than even I know), and, parents, you'll get all the information in this blog. Needless to say, the afternoon offers much pomp, and then we have the fun of enduring 3 hours of false starts before the actual 1.5 minute race. Thank goodness for those giant Litre water bottles!
Then, on Saturday, July 3, we venture on a day of Firenze. While we will visit the Uffizi and the Accademia (thank you, SPI, for paying for reservations!!!), we'll also have open time for you to visit other locations you'd like to see. Maybe you want to see Galileo's index finger at the Museum of Science and History? Perhaps view the frescoes in Santa Maria Novella? I always make my stop by the Farmacia di SMN (located right behind the church) to pick up their amazing perfumed soaps -and other elixirs - for family gifts. Or perhaps you want to visit one of the other grand churches in town? Santa Croce and the Duomo, with its Baptistry, are both beautiful in their own right (even if I think Siena's Duomo is grander). Then, of course, there's the leather market out near San Lorenzo (yet another historical and amazing church), and one always must fulfill their search for the best gelato by visiting some of the stars: Vivoli, Carabe, Festival del Gelato . . .. Needless to say, there's so much to do in such a brief day! Fortunately, since buses leave every hour for Siena, we can stay as long as we want that day (as long as we've told our homestays in advance that we'll be not eating at home that night)!
After such an intense touring day, you might be tempted to sit around your homestay on Sunday (July 4), but I will encourage you to discover other parts of Tuscany! In fact, you'll receive a brochure (one of many - I make them for every non-Siena excursion we have) on your many options for your free day. Want to head to the beach? Maybe visit Assisi? Perhaps you didn't get enough of Florence? Or do you want to stand next to the Leaning Tower in Pisa? I've even seen a few Twilight fans make a "pilgrimage" to Volterra, and a few history buffs head out to see the Roman Amphitheatre in Arezzo, or go down to Chiusi to see the Etruscan Tombs. SO many options! If you've been encouraged to visit San Gimignano, I'll suggest you wait on that one - we're going to do an afternoon optional excursion to San Gimignano during our second week in Siena.
What great opportunities abound during our time in Italy! Let me know what you're most excited about seeing!
a piu tarde,
Laura
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Ostia!
Greetings, All!
Okay, so I had to give you a little Palio taste:
You can actually see one of the SPI Italy '08 kiddos in there - he's wearing a striped shirt. Mark was such a lucky dog that year. He chose l'Istriche to win (even though they hadn't won in decades) . . . think his homestay was in that contrade. With his Mediterranean background, whenever he entered a museum/church and used his best Italian (which he learned only on this trip), they assumed he was an EU citizen, and he entered on the cheap or for free! I'm so jealous!
I'll share with you about the Palio when we're there - such an incredible event!
ANYWAYS, as we approach our trip, I thought I'd share with you some of our itineraries/plans for our weekend excursions . . . just to whet your trip-petite. And, just to keep it exciting, we're going to talk through the trip BACKWARDS!
Our last weekend is designed to give you the best LAST DAY experience ever! Friday night, 9 July, is our last night in Siena. Jeremy has given us all an awesome gift of a pizza party at the cooking school! Dante Alighieri has a fully-stocked professional kitchen, where they host gastronomy classes - check out DA's website, if you're interested! The head instructor will oversee us making a pizza dinner (with desserts) in the kitchen for our last dinner in Siena. I promise, it'll be unforgettable for you! After our dinner, we might just stroll by the church of St. Agostino, where the first concert of the Chigiana's Settimana Musicale Senese will be performed - you can sit out in the park, and still hear the music! Nothing like a Mass by Beethoven under the stars to help digest fabulous food (and a fabulous trip)! Or maybe SienaJazz will be hosting a concert? Then, of course, there's always the Cinema in Fortezza, if the movie looks good . . .
On Saturday morning, we're going to meet early to catch a bus to get us back to Rome, and quickly check in at our fabulous hotel. Dress in your beach clothes, because we'll head directly to Ostia for a last day of ancient sites and beach fun!
Ostia (literally, "port" in Latin) was Rome's port town since Rome was founded in 753 BC. It alone held much prestige - it was the choice of visitors for their stays to Rome, if they were traveling by sea - we have records that Cleopatra stayed in a palatial area there, and St. Augustine recalls his stay when he was trying to return his mother from Ostia to Hippo, in north Africa, where he served as Bishop. There's a story about an obelisk being transported from Alexandria to Rome, and the barge needed to transport it was so huge that it beached outside of Ostia's shore (and made an island out there, big enough for Claudius to build a lighthouse on it). For almost a millennium, Ostia was in use, until it was hit by a plague in the 3rd C., AD, and was promptly deserted. The modern city has grown up around it, but the ancient city was left untouched, and, in spite of its proximity to Rome, generally untrampled by tourists (as opposed to other deserted ancient cities, where you eat dust the whole time). We will tour the city of Ostia in a leisurely afternoon stroll, then we'll head down to Ostia Lido until dinnertime, where we get to take in some beach time and Italian sun, before our next morning's departure.
This website about Ostia's beach cracks me up (all too true!!!): http://www.initaly.com/regions/seaside/michael.htm
We'll return to the hotel to clean up that evening, then head somewhere fun for dinner. I'm still researching spots, and happy to take suggestions! Often, our spot for our last night's dinner is driven by how many Euros we have left in our respective pockets . . . :) We will be staying at an awesome hotel, which has a roof garden and a great restaurant which offers a good deal for a fixed-price menu . . . ah, the options!
Next time: TOSCANA!!
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Communication
Ah, to cell or not to cell, that is the question.
Whether 'tis nobler in the mind to suffer
the expense of the phone bill
Or to await in nervousness
the next time they will make the call home.
No call, no news -- no news, no knowing?
'Tis a consummation for every parent of a child going abroad.
(I could go on! My other teaching area IS English!)
But in all seriousness- and this is a serious topic, truly-parents who send their kiddos oversea always struggle with the decision to invest in a cell phone. Rather than get preachy (as I have done in previous years), may I share a few of my cell phone stories with you?
Story #1: Parents rent a cell phone for their responsible child. Child never charges phone. Battery dies. Parents e-mail me to ask child to charge phone. Daily, I remind child to charge phone. No charged phone. Parents end up just reading my blog for news. (actually, this story happens once every trip!)
Story #2: Parents rent a cell phone for their responsible child. Responsible child uses phone only when parents call her (on a scheduled time). Child's roommate calls boyfriend (in Dallas) on cell phone every night. $500+ phone bill piles up. Responsible child's parents must pay bill.
Story #3: Parents rent a cell phone for their responsible child. Child, missing friends at home, texts constantly, and doesn't participate in group activities. Child never feels part of group, and never realizes that she is living in Italy. Responsible child's parents must pay bill.
Story #4: Parents don't rent a cell phone for their responsible child, but do schedule times to call the child's homestay (received calls cost nothing to homestay families), and child informs homestay of this. Child and parents talk twice during the trip (Tuesdays, at 5:30 PM - 10:30 AM Dallas time), and parents read my blog for trip news. Child has four weeks' of stories (including his takes on all of my blog stories) to share with parents after returning home.
Now, these are just a few stories I've seen regarding cell phones. I am not going to tell you to NOT get a phone for your kiddo, if you really want them to have one. Let's face it - Jeremy has his own leash to me! But, it's the same as in all other situations with going abroad: Whatever distractions you bring over with you are what will keep your experience from being the best.
There are many options - no calling outside of the country, may receive only incoming calls, etc. - but, what it all comes down to is, do you want your kiddo to have that extra link home? And to be spending their time on a phone, rather than experiencing life in Italy? With e-mailing/blogging (which is also FREE), they can get news out to all their friends and family in one note, then head out to enjoy la vita bella!!!
pace,
Laura :)
Monday, May 10, 2010
Looking for an ACCURATE Currency Converter?
Buona Sera!
Just a quick note - I did remove the currency converter from my page - noticed that the one I had doesn't update, and the one I want doesn't show the complete page! If I can find a suitable add-in, I will be sure to include it on the page. Until then, here's the best, and most recently updated one:
http://www.xe.com/ucc/
There is a way to get this onto one's website - if I can figure it out quickly, I'll get it on the page!
pace,
Laura :)
Just a quick note - I did remove the currency converter from my page - noticed that the one I had doesn't update, and the one I want doesn't show the complete page! If I can find a suitable add-in, I will be sure to include it on the page. Until then, here's the best, and most recently updated one:
http://www.xe.com/ucc/
There is a way to get this onto one's website - if I can figure it out quickly, I'll get it on the page!
pace,
Laura :)
What NOT to pack
Ciao, Tutti!
While flipping through the channels the other day, I found a show which brought back funny memories. When my baby sister was in college, her friends turned her in to be on the show, "What not to Wear," for Christi's taste in dress. For over 1.5 years, Christi wore spaghetti-strap tank tops. Even in the winter. Madness.
I'd like to propose a new show: "What not to PACK". When it comes to travelling, packing is the most daunting concept of the experience. Even figuring how to get around a new city (with new transportation, new "home" location, new food types, all in a new language, even) is less threatening than the idea of giving up our home-based comforts.
Admittedly, too many rules or policies for anything drives me crazy. But some of the policies developed by the FAA since 9/11 have made such great sense to me! Who needs more than 50 pounds of stuff when you're traveling? Does where you're headed NOT have a supermarket? A food source? A sink? Also, who needs more than 3 oz of any liquid in their bags? You're just asking for a nasty spill!
SPI has given you a nice list of what you should pack. Definitely consider that list and your itinerary plans (when we tour on our first Saturday in Rome, we'll go into the Vatican - you need to have shoulders/cleavage/knees covered). So, here's my advice on what NOT to pack:
1. Anything more than 3 oz. of any liquid. Weigh your bottle of shampoo sometime, to see how much it really weighs. Need more shampoo or mouthwash? Pick it up at the supermarket (or beauty stores - they're all over Siena)!
2. Anything that needs a converter. Power surges will blow straight through converters, and I've seen them (and the converters themselves) destroy students' iPods, DVD players, and minicomputers. There are radios in the city, and computer labs both at the school and around town. Can't live without a hair dryer? Wait until you get to your homestay - they might have one there. And, if not, we can go shopping for one on our first day of classes - what a great gift to leave behind at your homestay (or to even have as a memorial of the trip)! Please don't weigh down your bags with expensive gadgets.
3. Anything you don't want to lose. Is it a family heirloom? It is something you can't live without? Consider leaving it at home for our brief stay. A lifelong loss of something priceless is way more painful than a few weeks' hiatus.
Siena has many universities in town, which means that they're going to have services you need all over the city. Remember how I mentioned that you could make it with nothing but your passport?
a piu tarde!
Laura :)
While flipping through the channels the other day, I found a show which brought back funny memories. When my baby sister was in college, her friends turned her in to be on the show, "What not to Wear," for Christi's taste in dress. For over 1.5 years, Christi wore spaghetti-strap tank tops. Even in the winter. Madness.
I'd like to propose a new show: "What not to PACK". When it comes to travelling, packing is the most daunting concept of the experience. Even figuring how to get around a new city (with new transportation, new "home" location, new food types, all in a new language, even) is less threatening than the idea of giving up our home-based comforts.
Admittedly, too many rules or policies for anything drives me crazy. But some of the policies developed by the FAA since 9/11 have made such great sense to me! Who needs more than 50 pounds of stuff when you're traveling? Does where you're headed NOT have a supermarket? A food source? A sink? Also, who needs more than 3 oz of any liquid in their bags? You're just asking for a nasty spill!
SPI has given you a nice list of what you should pack. Definitely consider that list and your itinerary plans (when we tour on our first Saturday in Rome, we'll go into the Vatican - you need to have shoulders/cleavage/knees covered). So, here's my advice on what NOT to pack:
1. Anything more than 3 oz. of any liquid. Weigh your bottle of shampoo sometime, to see how much it really weighs. Need more shampoo or mouthwash? Pick it up at the supermarket (or beauty stores - they're all over Siena)!
2. Anything that needs a converter. Power surges will blow straight through converters, and I've seen them (and the converters themselves) destroy students' iPods, DVD players, and minicomputers. There are radios in the city, and computer labs both at the school and around town. Can't live without a hair dryer? Wait until you get to your homestay - they might have one there. And, if not, we can go shopping for one on our first day of classes - what a great gift to leave behind at your homestay (or to even have as a memorial of the trip)! Please don't weigh down your bags with expensive gadgets.
3. Anything you don't want to lose. Is it a family heirloom? It is something you can't live without? Consider leaving it at home for our brief stay. A lifelong loss of something priceless is way more painful than a few weeks' hiatus.
Siena has many universities in town, which means that they're going to have services you need all over the city. Remember how I mentioned that you could make it with nothing but your passport?
a piu tarde!
Laura :)
Friday, May 7, 2010
elenco di canzoni
Ciao, Tutti!
Something came up for me in class today, and I thought of y'all. As a trained musician, my soul is attached to music, and all best expressions of myself I've always found in music. My students often receive music during testing/in-class working time, and they, too, find more peace in themselves. Even my freshman football players in English I CP are transformed. Truly, music soothes the most savage beast.
This isn't unfounded professional behavior - it's been proven how sounds, in their various forms, affect water molecule patterns. And how music can truly change our moods. I'm a huge proponent of the Mozart effect during testing (even though I'll include other classical composers of similar style, plus Tchaikovsky).
When you view any tourist-based videos of Italy, you're going to hear music which is faintly familiar, but which is deeply based in the hearts of the Italians. There are some songs which you just should know if you're a music-lover visiting Italy. And this isn't stereotypical - you will find random groups of people circling around a pianist (or other instrumentalist), singing familiar songs.
I do own Dean-o's "Italian Love Songs", which is a good sampling of traditional Italian songs, but here's a general Italian Playlist, if you'd like to feel prepared for the party:
Volare
That's Amore
Funicoli, funicola
Arrivederci, Roma
Santa Lucia
Return to me (Song of Sorrento)
O Sole Mio
Lazy Mary
Buona Sera
Get this on your iPod! Got more to add to this list? Share your suggestions!
You might just find yourself surrounding a piano, and joining strangers in a familiar song.
un' abbracio,
Laura :)
Something came up for me in class today, and I thought of y'all. As a trained musician, my soul is attached to music, and all best expressions of myself I've always found in music. My students often receive music during testing/in-class working time, and they, too, find more peace in themselves. Even my freshman football players in English I CP are transformed. Truly, music soothes the most savage beast.
This isn't unfounded professional behavior - it's been proven how sounds, in their various forms, affect water molecule patterns. And how music can truly change our moods. I'm a huge proponent of the Mozart effect during testing (even though I'll include other classical composers of similar style, plus Tchaikovsky).
When you view any tourist-based videos of Italy, you're going to hear music which is faintly familiar, but which is deeply based in the hearts of the Italians. There are some songs which you just should know if you're a music-lover visiting Italy. And this isn't stereotypical - you will find random groups of people circling around a pianist (or other instrumentalist), singing familiar songs.
I do own Dean-o's "Italian Love Songs", which is a good sampling of traditional Italian songs, but here's a general Italian Playlist, if you'd like to feel prepared for the party:
Volare
That's Amore
Funicoli, funicola
Arrivederci, Roma
Santa Lucia
Return to me (Song of Sorrento)
O Sole Mio
Lazy Mary
Buona Sera
Get this on your iPod! Got more to add to this list? Share your suggestions!
You might just find yourself surrounding a piano, and joining strangers in a familiar song.
un' abbracio,
Laura :)
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
What To Carry On
Buon Giorno, Tutti!
After sending out that note last night, I figured I should get on the ball with these blog entries!
This weekend, I joined my husband and father-in-law for one of their famed baseball weekends. This isn't my first time - we did Kansas City/St. Louis just two summers ago. And this one was even nicer - we flew into Miami for a Dolphins' game, then drove to Tampa for a Rays game (got to visit the Dali museum), and flew home on Sunday (not before enjoying brunch with some old family friends). A trip like this one reminded me of how important it is to pack smartly - Jay and I fit all we needed into one carry-on suitcase (and, yes, girls, I did have a pair of cute shoes and a pair of walking shoes).
The best advice about carry-ons is this: either carry on as much as possible, or carry on as little as possible. If you're checking a suitcase (as I'm sure all of us will for our trip), make sure you have just the essentials in your carry-on.
What do I put in mine (the backpack)?
Source of entertaining reading - a really good book (I'm taking my summer-reading assignment for my English classes), your copies of paperwork (and mine)
Important paperwork and medicines: If you take it daily, put it in your carry-on. If you need it for emergencies, put it in your carry-on. If it has a prescription, be sure you have a copy of that paperwork (and a copy for me) in your carry-on.
Emergency items: dramamine or bonine, bandaids, neosporin, gas-X strips (great if you get bloated easily)
hygiene products: facewash cloths (Mary Kay's are packaged dry and folded up - wet them in the sink), travel-sized deodorant, toothbrush/travel toothpaste
Color for jetlagged old lady like me: eyeliner/bronzer
Snacks (in case one of you needs it): packages of crackers/peanut butter or cheese
***Change of clothes in case bags don't make it (or, at least, underwear and a t-shirt . . . but, then again, it isn't terrible to have an excuse to go shopping in Rome . . .)
Please remember that we're living in Siena - a finely-developed city, not some third-world place without plumbing. I plan to make a visit to the laundromat in the middle of our trip, and don't want to spend my money on more than one load's worth of wash and dry. Some of your homestays will even offer to wash a load for you (mine doesn't, but I still love her - beg to live with her every year). Pack accordingly.
How do you know if you've packed too much? SPI does give a good packing list in your notebooks which you'll receive, but here's the real way to test it: Pack your suitcase completely, including toiletries you plan to take. Leave it to the side, and go out all night. Before you get to sleep the next morning, pick up your suitcase, and carry it up and down three blocks, climb and descend two flights of stairs with it, then run up and down your street with it. Still happy with how you packed?
There are a few sections of packing advice in the monthly newsletters (you can find their links in the greeting area of the SPI Italy Quia page) - check them out!
a piu tardi!
Laura :)
P.S. Want to see some good views of Siena in a recent movie? "Letters to Juliet", while I wouldn't necessarily recommend it for brilliant plotline (just like "When in Rome"), does have some great views of major locations in Siena!
After sending out that note last night, I figured I should get on the ball with these blog entries!
This weekend, I joined my husband and father-in-law for one of their famed baseball weekends. This isn't my first time - we did Kansas City/St. Louis just two summers ago. And this one was even nicer - we flew into Miami for a Dolphins' game, then drove to Tampa for a Rays game (got to visit the Dali museum), and flew home on Sunday (not before enjoying brunch with some old family friends). A trip like this one reminded me of how important it is to pack smartly - Jay and I fit all we needed into one carry-on suitcase (and, yes, girls, I did have a pair of cute shoes and a pair of walking shoes).
The best advice about carry-ons is this: either carry on as much as possible, or carry on as little as possible. If you're checking a suitcase (as I'm sure all of us will for our trip), make sure you have just the essentials in your carry-on.
What do I put in mine (the backpack)?
Source of entertaining reading - a really good book (I'm taking my summer-reading assignment for my English classes), your copies of paperwork (and mine)
Important paperwork and medicines: If you take it daily, put it in your carry-on. If you need it for emergencies, put it in your carry-on. If it has a prescription, be sure you have a copy of that paperwork (and a copy for me) in your carry-on.
Emergency items: dramamine or bonine, bandaids, neosporin, gas-X strips (great if you get bloated easily)
hygiene products: facewash cloths (Mary Kay's are packaged dry and folded up - wet them in the sink), travel-sized deodorant, toothbrush/travel toothpaste
Color for jetlagged old lady like me: eyeliner/bronzer
Snacks (in case one of you needs it): packages of crackers/peanut butter or cheese
***Change of clothes in case bags don't make it (or, at least, underwear and a t-shirt . . . but, then again, it isn't terrible to have an excuse to go shopping in Rome . . .)
Please remember that we're living in Siena - a finely-developed city, not some third-world place without plumbing. I plan to make a visit to the laundromat in the middle of our trip, and don't want to spend my money on more than one load's worth of wash and dry. Some of your homestays will even offer to wash a load for you (mine doesn't, but I still love her - beg to live with her every year). Pack accordingly.
How do you know if you've packed too much? SPI does give a good packing list in your notebooks which you'll receive, but here's the real way to test it: Pack your suitcase completely, including toiletries you plan to take. Leave it to the side, and go out all night. Before you get to sleep the next morning, pick up your suitcase, and carry it up and down three blocks, climb and descend two flights of stairs with it, then run up and down your street with it. Still happy with how you packed?
There are a few sections of packing advice in the monthly newsletters (you can find their links in the greeting area of the SPI Italy Quia page) - check them out!
a piu tardi!
Laura :)
P.S. Want to see some good views of Siena in a recent movie? "Letters to Juliet", while I wouldn't necessarily recommend it for brilliant plotline (just like "When in Rome"), does have some great views of major locations in Siena!
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Our Classes
Okay, I'll be honest - I've delayed this next entry, simply because I haven't had much inspiration to discuss any topic which would be relevant to our Italy experience. Today, I scanned the "news" (I use quotes as I don't personally consider CNN.com as the most valid news source). . . Volcanic activity in Iceland . . . Tax day . . . AI dumps two performers (really? this is worthy enough to be even on CNN.com?) . . . and then it appeared - a big group of principals are being fired in Kansas City, MO. All 150 of them. They are being required to re-apply for their jobs (and the school district is cutting 1/6 of them).
Which makes me think of the educational system in Italy. Much like it is for us, their system is free and compulsory, from 5 - 16 years of age. This policy has been around since the mid 1800's - WAY before the American educational system was developed. From 1920's to 1962, they did try to install a Fascist system (legge Gentile), where at 14, students chose whether to go to trade or educational tracks. We'll talk about various ways in which the Facist ideals are seen throughout Italy (in architecture, in daily life, etc.), but this one didn't stick. They returned to the original plan after 1962, and have continued it until then.
We will be attending a University-level program. In Italy, the laurea program was a 5-year program, similar to a combined Bachelor-Masters degree. Starting in 1999, studies were separated between Bachelor's program (3 years - 25 contact hours equaled one credit)and a graduate program (2 years). This makes it easy for students to transfer to another school after 3 years of study.
Our school where we will attend is the Societa Dante Alighieri, where you'll be taking classes in the mornings, during the weekdays. Classes aren't necessarily topic-focused (as it is in your daily school) - to more effectively learn the language, you participate in speaking, reading, cultural studies, and even art studies. The school even includes a FANTASTIC culinary school. DA is internationally-recognized, and has a history of infamous students, from cultural attaches to diplomats to Miss Universe 2004!
DA seeks to give you the best experience possible. They limit class enrollment (you might even all be in one small class together), and the teachers are AWESOME. Ask past Italy group members on Facebook - they all have fond memories of their teachers (Enzo, Leticia, etc.).
DA also handles our homestay placement, and they always seek to put us into their best homestays! We will find out our homestay placements a week before our departure date, so don't worry too much about these right now - just know that I'm familiar with most of their regular families, and they are outstanding. (Will talk about homestay gifts as we get closer to our departure date)
Please, give me inspiration - ask me questions! Send me notes!
un' abbracio,
Laura :)
http://www.dantealighieri.com/
Which makes me think of the educational system in Italy. Much like it is for us, their system is free and compulsory, from 5 - 16 years of age. This policy has been around since the mid 1800's - WAY before the American educational system was developed. From 1920's to 1962, they did try to install a Fascist system (legge Gentile), where at 14, students chose whether to go to trade or educational tracks. We'll talk about various ways in which the Facist ideals are seen throughout Italy (in architecture, in daily life, etc.), but this one didn't stick. They returned to the original plan after 1962, and have continued it until then.
We will be attending a University-level program. In Italy, the laurea program was a 5-year program, similar to a combined Bachelor-Masters degree. Starting in 1999, studies were separated between Bachelor's program (3 years - 25 contact hours equaled one credit)and a graduate program (2 years). This makes it easy for students to transfer to another school after 3 years of study.
Our school where we will attend is the Societa Dante Alighieri, where you'll be taking classes in the mornings, during the weekdays. Classes aren't necessarily topic-focused (as it is in your daily school) - to more effectively learn the language, you participate in speaking, reading, cultural studies, and even art studies. The school even includes a FANTASTIC culinary school. DA is internationally-recognized, and has a history of infamous students, from cultural attaches to diplomats to Miss Universe 2004!
DA seeks to give you the best experience possible. They limit class enrollment (you might even all be in one small class together), and the teachers are AWESOME. Ask past Italy group members on Facebook - they all have fond memories of their teachers (Enzo, Leticia, etc.).
DA also handles our homestay placement, and they always seek to put us into their best homestays! We will find out our homestay placements a week before our departure date, so don't worry too much about these right now - just know that I'm familiar with most of their regular families, and they are outstanding. (Will talk about homestay gifts as we get closer to our departure date)
Please, give me inspiration - ask me questions! Send me notes!
un' abbracio,
Laura :)
http://www.dantealighieri.com/
Monday, March 29, 2010
Pasta
Do we have any Simpsons fans out there? This Sunday's show cracked me up - Flanders took the Simpsons on a tour to the Holy Lands. While there was also some fun theological play throughout, the first half had many "Idiot American Tourists" references. I'm such a fan of people who find humor in people behaving badly abroad . . .
But this blog entry is to address a far more serious topic. There has been a culinary abuse which has been going on in America for years, and I, for one, just will not tolerate it anymore. An entire group has been mistreated and taken for granted for decades, and I feel I must speak out. I speak on behalf of PASTA today, my friends. Pasta, which has more variety than ice cream flavors. Pasta, which is structurally designed to hold the sauce which is appropriately paired with it. Pasta, which really should only be cooked one way. Pasta, which is important enough to the Italians to be used as an entire course on its own.
The Romans know how pasta should be revered. Rome has the Museo Nationale della Pasta (http://www.pastainmuseum.com/index.php) - that's how serious they are. And, when you enjoy a primo piatto during our first weekend in Rome, you, too, will see how serious they are. Long pastas, short pastas, soup pastas . . . semolina wheat, durum wheat, potato . . . red sauces, white sauces, pestos . . . mmmm . . . I've got to get dinner going . . .
Italophiles know that pasta isn't just designed for the eater's delight; each variety of structure of pasta is made so that it pairs ideally with the sauce which it holds. This hoo-hah of "choose your own pasta, choose your own sauce" is just that - hooey. Kudos to Barilla, a company who has been seeking to properly educate the United States in how to treat pasta properly. http://www.barillaus.com/home/Pages/Perfect_Pairing.aspx offers a thorough chart on types of pasta, and the sauces which should be paired with them. Just like ideal cheese and wine pairings, sauce behaves the right way when it's with its right pasta. Some of my favorite pairings are Bucatini all' Amatriciana, Gnocchi con Pesto, and, my favorite in Siena (a must do, at least once), Pici con cacio e pepe (hard, aged cheese and pepper grated over it).
Italophiles also know the importance of cooking pasta al dente - no serving mush to your table! It's no wonder why Americans feel we can cut pasta out of our diets - we have become pros at destroying the beauty of it. It has been medically proven that pasta done al dente is better for digestion . . . please, if you have tolerated soggy pasta for years, make the change to a better pasta experience!!! Pasta has to be strong enough to hold up to its paired sauce!!! It is said that Pasta is architecture for the mouth, and how can it serve its job when it's too mushy to hold its own shape? http://www.archimedes-lab.org/pastashape.html will give you some great images, if you want to feast with your eyes.
I am still on a mission to find a place which makes pasta at a restaurant in Dallas which fulfills my senses as much as when in Italy. The closest experience to pasta pleasure I've found is at Mi Piaci, just off Beltline and the Dallas North Tollway. If you're a regular Italy tourist, do you have another restaurant around here to recommend?
With the carb scare and all these anti-carb diets out there, you are completely denying yourself the experience which all stomachs deserve. Even if you suffer with Celiac disease, you can find pastas which are gluten-free at any restaurant in Italy (often, the risotto plates can be gluten-free). Really, it's not natural to not consume carbs - your internal organs suffer badly from not having a balanced meal for an extended amount of time. At your homestays, you'll probably have pasta for dinner every night. I can confess that my favorite sauce done by my homestay mom consists mostly of chopped asparagus . . .
The Museo Nationale della Pasta is closed right now for renovation - they must have heard about the "choose your pasta/sauce" and "overcooked pasta" debacles, and are taking time to mourn.
RESPECT PASTA!!!
ho fame,
Laura :)
But this blog entry is to address a far more serious topic. There has been a culinary abuse which has been going on in America for years, and I, for one, just will not tolerate it anymore. An entire group has been mistreated and taken for granted for decades, and I feel I must speak out. I speak on behalf of PASTA today, my friends. Pasta, which has more variety than ice cream flavors. Pasta, which is structurally designed to hold the sauce which is appropriately paired with it. Pasta, which really should only be cooked one way. Pasta, which is important enough to the Italians to be used as an entire course on its own.
The Romans know how pasta should be revered. Rome has the Museo Nationale della Pasta (http://www.pastainmuseum.com/index.php) - that's how serious they are. And, when you enjoy a primo piatto during our first weekend in Rome, you, too, will see how serious they are. Long pastas, short pastas, soup pastas . . . semolina wheat, durum wheat, potato . . . red sauces, white sauces, pestos . . . mmmm . . . I've got to get dinner going . . .
Italophiles know that pasta isn't just designed for the eater's delight; each variety of structure of pasta is made so that it pairs ideally with the sauce which it holds. This hoo-hah of "choose your own pasta, choose your own sauce" is just that - hooey. Kudos to Barilla, a company who has been seeking to properly educate the United States in how to treat pasta properly. http://www.barillaus.com/home/Pages/Perfect_Pairing.aspx offers a thorough chart on types of pasta, and the sauces which should be paired with them. Just like ideal cheese and wine pairings, sauce behaves the right way when it's with its right pasta. Some of my favorite pairings are Bucatini all' Amatriciana, Gnocchi con Pesto, and, my favorite in Siena (a must do, at least once), Pici con cacio e pepe (hard, aged cheese and pepper grated over it).
Italophiles also know the importance of cooking pasta al dente - no serving mush to your table! It's no wonder why Americans feel we can cut pasta out of our diets - we have become pros at destroying the beauty of it. It has been medically proven that pasta done al dente is better for digestion . . . please, if you have tolerated soggy pasta for years, make the change to a better pasta experience!!! Pasta has to be strong enough to hold up to its paired sauce!!! It is said that Pasta is architecture for the mouth, and how can it serve its job when it's too mushy to hold its own shape? http://www.archimedes-lab.org/pastashape.html will give you some great images, if you want to feast with your eyes.
I am still on a mission to find a place which makes pasta at a restaurant in Dallas which fulfills my senses as much as when in Italy. The closest experience to pasta pleasure I've found is at Mi Piaci, just off Beltline and the Dallas North Tollway. If you're a regular Italy tourist, do you have another restaurant around here to recommend?
With the carb scare and all these anti-carb diets out there, you are completely denying yourself the experience which all stomachs deserve. Even if you suffer with Celiac disease, you can find pastas which are gluten-free at any restaurant in Italy (often, the risotto plates can be gluten-free). Really, it's not natural to not consume carbs - your internal organs suffer badly from not having a balanced meal for an extended amount of time. At your homestays, you'll probably have pasta for dinner every night. I can confess that my favorite sauce done by my homestay mom consists mostly of chopped asparagus . . .
The Museo Nationale della Pasta is closed right now for renovation - they must have heard about the "choose your pasta/sauce" and "overcooked pasta" debacles, and are taking time to mourn.
RESPECT PASTA!!!
ho fame,
Laura :)
Monday, March 22, 2010
Exchange Rate
Don't expect two entries in a day, usually, but I just thought of this . . .
Right now, the Dollar-to-Euro rate is the lowest I've seen in a while. Just two years ago, it was sailing at around $1.75 for one euro, and it's at $1.35 right now! I've put a currency converter onto the blog, for your quick reference.
If you're willing to pay the fee for the price of the exchange, it's not a bad idea to get some Euro cash or travelers' cheques in Euros for the trip right now, just to get a little more bang to your buck.
If you're not up for the gamble (that the Euro will jump again in the summer - probably not that drastically), my best suggestion is that you plan to use a Debit card (attached to a separate account, which parents can monitor), and take direct deposits from the Bancomats (ATM/MAC in Italy), keeping all your purchases in cash. This is how directors with SPI handle our expenses (personal and for SPI) - no one wants to blow the 3% fee which is attached to ALL credit cards on purchases abroad.
I'll talk more about this issue later - those of you who are far experienced in travel and the Euro will take note of this. Those of you who don't understand why I entered this blog, don't worry about it. :)
Looking out for you,
Laura :)
Right now, the Dollar-to-Euro rate is the lowest I've seen in a while. Just two years ago, it was sailing at around $1.75 for one euro, and it's at $1.35 right now! I've put a currency converter onto the blog, for your quick reference.
If you're willing to pay the fee for the price of the exchange, it's not a bad idea to get some Euro cash or travelers' cheques in Euros for the trip right now, just to get a little more bang to your buck.
If you're not up for the gamble (that the Euro will jump again in the summer - probably not that drastically), my best suggestion is that you plan to use a Debit card (attached to a separate account, which parents can monitor), and take direct deposits from the Bancomats (ATM/MAC in Italy), keeping all your purchases in cash. This is how directors with SPI handle our expenses (personal and for SPI) - no one wants to blow the 3% fee which is attached to ALL credit cards on purchases abroad.
I'll talk more about this issue later - those of you who are far experienced in travel and the Euro will take note of this. Those of you who don't understand why I entered this blog, don't worry about it. :)
Looking out for you,
Laura :)
Cinema Italiana
Buon Giorno, Tutti!
Seeing as I'm subbing for the Theatre teacher today, I'm all in the mood to talk about Italian Film. This can include both films about Italy and films by Italians. Forgive me, those of you who are HUGE film fans, but I'm going to make this super-simplified, and keep the examples down to one or two, just for simplicity. Since we just experienced the Oscars, I'm going to focus on movies which scored in one category or another. If you have more to suggest, please feel free to share!!!
A great way to prepare your ear for immersion is by watching film or TV shows in the Italian language. And two CANNOT-MISS Italian directors are Federico Fellini and Roberto Benigni. Fellini's "8 1/2" was recently alluded to in "Nine", and, if you're looking for his most recognized, classic film, a 1960 Oscar winner, check out "La Dolce Vita". Benigni's 1997 film, "La Vita e Bella", is also a winner of 3 Oscars, a beautiful depiction and excellent blend of comedy and tragedy. And the two leads are Benigni and his wife (in real life, and in the film).
After viewing these two, you'll probably want to go for a good, light comedy. May I recommend Benigni's "Johnny Stecchino", a comedy of errors about the Mafia? Not exactly an Oscar winner . . . but a good giggle!
While we're in Siena, they have several great programs for the arts. If you prefer the music scene, keep your eye on the Chigiana's concerts. Their Summer Music Week usually starts sometime during the second week of our stay - http://www.chigiana.it/ - they haven't posted this summer's plans yet (usually is updated by early June). Siena Jazz is something which just started up a few years ago, but was so big that they had a Day, where there were Jazz combos playing all over town - http://www.sienajazz.it/ - they have posted information about their summer study courses, but nothing about concerts yet. If you're a film fan, you may want to attend the "Cinema in Fortezza" for a few of our nights during our stay? Almost every evening (except on the Palio, I think) they show a movie, drive-in-style, in the Fortezza. When we do our walking tour on the first day, I'll take you out to the Fortezza - my favorite spot in town. How fun to sit in the Medici Fortress and watch a modern or classic film!
While we're sharing websites, here's the City of Siena website: http://www.comune.siena.it/main.asp?id=0 Please, did you expect me to give you English websites? Be adventurous! Don't hit the translation button!!!
Want a movie view of Siena? You can see an EVENING PRACTICE RUN of the Palio at the beginning of "Quantum of Solace."
I have noticed that films are one of the best ways to spark images in your mind, as you prepare to visit a new place. Any way to make the novel, familiar, enhances your travel experience all the more! My favorite Rome film is "Roman Holiday" - see Gregory Peck and Audrey Hepburn, both at their best! And the views of Rome aren't too bad, either . . . Or, perhaps you prefer something a little more suspenseful? How 'bout "Angels and Demons"? There are always those terrible, cheesy movies which wring out/strangle the romantic essence of Rome and Tuscany, including a movie which was released just this year, and another one recently done by a popular TV actress/music performer. "Under the Tuscan Sun" was a great book, and, while I'm not the biggest fan of the movie, it does show great shots of Toscana. Please don't think badly of the filming location, just because the movie is painful.
Cinecitta is where films are done in Rome, so if you're in the mood to search, you can find MANY recognizable titles which were created on the site! It's one of the stops on one of the (two - working on three) subway lines, but I'm not going to encourage you to go there when we're in Rome. Takes too much time to see too little. We'll see if we can "stalk" out a team in production in the middle of the city. Past SPI groups have visited the "Ocean's 12" trailers in the Villa Borghese, tromped on the catwalks of the fashion shows put on throughout Rome by Versace for his 50th (60th? 75th?) birthday, been in the Campo in Siena while they were filming for "Quantum of Solace" . . . don't worry - if there's filming to pursue, we'll find it.
If you have a gem to share, please feel free to do so! I'm always open to new suggestions!
un' abbracio,
Laura :)
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Italy - The World's Most Coveted Destination
If it's in Travel and Leisure, then it must be true.
You can expect to receive procedural e-mails like me (like the last one) - "how-to"s for the trip. But sometimes you'll get entries (like this one) where you can get public opinion, special facts, or even recommendations about this fabulous location.
Without a doubt, Italy is one of the top spots for focus in publishing glamorous living. Whether it's a shot of a celebrity on a beach, or an article on the favorite place for vacationing, you're likely to see a little of Italy at all times on every newsstand.
While preparing to throw out this past year's collection of travel and food magazines which have been piling up around the house, I found at least one article on Italy or Italian food in practically every magazine. In n Travel and Leisure (Feb. 2010), Siena was the focus for "My Favorite Place" (courtesy of Emily Mortimer, recently seen in "Shutter Island") - there's a great picture of Il Campo - a view which will become quickly familiar to you - it's the main central piazza in Siena. And, yes, you will get the opportunity to climb that tower.
One of the best ways to experience Italy before arriving there is through books. I KNOW - some of you claim an allergy to reading, but it's really fun when it's not required! I promise! Whether you pick up a memoir, a tour book, a romance story, or a collection of short stories (my preference), you can find some amazing treasures about this wonderful country. As Spring Break approaches, I encourage you - no, assign to you - to pick out one book about Italy and read it during your Spring Break. And, to be a part of this activity, I have one for myself - my mother-in-law recently gave me The Devil's Queen, an historical fiction about Catherine de Medici - promises to be a little more bloody and risque than I'm used to, but variety is good, right?
Need a little direction for your own pick? Just for our weekend in Rome, you can find a trove of treasures! Are you an art fan? Try Michaelangelo and the Pope's Ceiling. Architecture? Check out the mammoth Not Built in a Day. Foodie? Oh, there are so many - The Tuscan Year: Life and Food in an Italian Valley or The Italian Food Guide, just for a start. For an immersion experience, there's the ubiquitous Under the Tuscan Sun (Cortona's about an hour away from Siena) or my more preferred Too Much Tuscan Sun. History fan? For Ancient Rome fun, check out Colleen McCullough's First Man in Rome collection for historical fictions or Steven Saylor's books for mystery/suspense. Medieval or Renaissance History? You will want to know about the Guelfs vs. Ghibellines, as well as the rise of the Italian city. Want to know a little more about Vatican City? I must recommend When in Rome by Robert Hutchinson (look out - there's a sweet romantic fiction by Gemma Townley with the same title, if you're looking for a fun fiction read, or John Grisham's Playing for Pizza).
Want something more specific to search? You can search one of the cities/towns we'll visit, or look up life in Tuscany. Check out a favorite artist or art collection. Pasta fan? Innumerable books about that topic . . .
We're always out to find the best bang for our buck. When preparing to spend time in a new place, one of the best ways to prepare is by knowing as much about it before we set foot off the plane.
What a great time we're going to have!!!
un' abbraccio,
Laura :)
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Italia
Buon Giorno, Tutti!
It's official! We're headed to Italy! What an amazing experience we're all going to have!
Yes - it is more than three months out, but the more prepared you are for a trip, the better the trip will be for you. Right now, you need to be thinking about the following things:
1. Getting familiar with your geography: Where are you headed? What do you know about Rome? Do you know anything about Siena (besides the fact that it shares a name with a car and a color in the big box of crayolas)? What about the other cities in Toscana? Firenze? Pisa? Arezzo? Volterra? San Gimignano?
2. Getting familiar with the language: Do you know the standard niceties in Italian (per favore, grazie, prego, si, non, buon giorno, buona sera, piacere)? Do you know your numbers? Colors? Do you know how to ask for something (che cosa, questo/a, quant' e costa, dove, quando)? Can you tell time in Italian? Check out our monthly newsletters for quick phrases to know!
3. Getting familiar with the itinerary: Do you know where we're going to visit? Is there something special you'd like to see in one of our cities on our itinerary? Do you have a favorite artist who hails from Tuscany? Do you know what the food is like (and what it's called in Italian) in Italy?
4. Customizing it for yourself: What do you want from this experience? Before you depart, be sure you've shared your hopes and expectations with me, so that I can help make this the best few weeks you've ever had!
un' abbraccio,
Laura :)
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