City on a Hill

No family vacation is complete without an excursion- it is the best way to escape the big city and see what an area is all about. Following that mantra Katie, Bobby and I (along with baby P!) meandered into the Italian countryside. What did we come across on our early morning train ride from Rome? An imposing hillside town called Orvieto.

Standing dramatically above the countryside, Orvieto has been an ideal strategic location for the area's inhabitants. For thousands of years the Etruscans, the Romans and the Papacy all took advantage city's fortified location. This militaristic past as a stronghold has made the city an archaeological gem rich with history. Nowadays, Orvieto is a charming little town which is home to some of the best wine in the Umbria region.

We all found Orvieto to be a much welcomes retreat from the hustle and bustle of the Italian capital. Despite the high elevation and mighty winds, we found ourselves getting extremely comfortable in this slow city*.

We allowed ourselves to wander aimless through the cobblestone streets, feast on mounds of delish pasta and laugh together until we gave ourselves stomach aches. Isn't that what la dolce vita is about eh?


A lovely getaway. A perfect day on a city on a hill.


Tanti Baci,

Lauren

PS: Orvietois actually a "slow city." It is apart of a movement known as Cittaslow that looks to protect the diversity, uniqueness and quality of life in small cities.

On Roman Holiday

All roads lead to Rome, or so they say. This was the case for me when I traveled to the eternal city to meet my family for Spring Break.* I was lucky to experience Rome for the second time with my sister Katie and my brother-in-law Bob. However, what made this trip extra special was that my sister was pregnant with my beautiful niece. So it wasn't just three best friends experiencing this monumental city; it was four.



Rome is one of those cities that should be an essential on every persons travel to-do list. Between the art, the culture, the food and the wine it really is a must for all travelers young and old. It truly is a sensory overload; there is just so much to see and do that it can be overwhelming. Despite this overload that may occur while in Roma, you just have to push through and try to experience all the history you can. Just look to your trusty map for some guidance if needed (unless you are like us and get your map in the wrong language.)





My personal favorite sight in Rome is the ancient Roman Forum. Layers below the modern city, you have the ability to travel down into living history. While walking through the ruins you cannot help but be filled with wonder and perhaps almost envision the ghosts of famous Romans such as Caesar, Pompey and Cicero.



I also highly suggest the artsy Piazza Navona. The piazza was filled with such elegance and energy.


And no trip to Rome is complete without a trip to the Colosseum! *Queue chanting: MAXIMUS! MAXIMUS! MAXIMUS!*



I really can go on and on about Rome. But the city doesn't need me to advertise for it, Rome can speak for its self. Just go and see the eternal city!

Tanti Baci,
Lauren

PS: Whenever you are touring Roman ruins, it is CRUCIAL that you take some modeling shots :)




*"Spring Break" in February...Give me a break! More like "Mid-Winter Freeze My Butt Off Break!"