Highlights from Marti’s recent trip to Amsterdam and Italy This was my first time to Amsterdam, and I only had 24 hours. My initial impressions: Train was easy, quick into town. Clean, clear, and friendly. Better weather than anticipated. Loved the canals and architecture. Very picturesque! Easy to get around on foot and tram. Toured Anne Frank Museum, Canal boat tour, and Rikjmuseum. 24 hours was not enough time! I will return. Highlights of Rome: Spanish Steps, Trevi fountain, Pantheon, Navona Square, St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel, Colosseum and the Roman Forum, Capitol Square and Piazza Venezia. A side trip to Tivoli, Villa Adriana built between AD 118 and 134 and Villa d’Este – I especially enjoyed getting out into the Hill country. Tuscany Chianti region highlights: Wine and olive oil producing and tasting, - yum!! Wandering through San Gimignano for lunch and shopping. Florence: Piazza del Duomo, Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Giotto’s Bell tower, Academy of Fine Arts (DAVID!!) , Uffizi Gallery, and COOKING SCHOOL!!! On to Venice: Beautiful drive. Fall leaves, Appanian Mountains remind me of the Northwest. Venice: Arrival by canal taxi – you know you are in a truly unique city. Fun just to wander and get lost and found again and again! Highlights include Piazza San Marco, Doge’s Palace, Bridge of Sighs and the Prisons, great shopping. But for me, just wandering the narrow streets and enjoying the beautify of this incredible place. And finally – Lake Como. Breathtaking scenery, slower pace. Travel from town to town by boat! The 3 R’s here- Relax, Recharge, Romance. Incredible! Just as I expected, I ate and drank my way through Italy – especially cuppocinos, gelatos, and pastries – and awesome pasta!! Oh, yeah. And the wine was pretty good too. Call me. I would love to help with your Europe travel planning. Adventures Index | Specials | Home (253) 853-8687 | info@andersontravel.net | FAX: (206) 938-8496 5229 Olympic Dr. NW, Unit B | Gig Harbor, Washington 98335 - U.S.A. Monday - Friday 9:30 am - 5:00 pm / Saturday 10:00 am - 2:00 pm