When many think of summer vacation, they dream of laying out on a beach, maybe hiking through the mountains, perhaps going to another country even. For some, their perfect vacation involves seeing relatives they have been away from for a long period of time. Luckily enough for me, my vacation included all of this things, along with much more.
For our family vacation this year we traveled across the pond to Europe, specifically Italy. A year ago, my brother-in-law was stationed over in the beautiful (yet far away) country and of course my sister went with him. My parents had been saving up since August to be able to make a summer visit, and finally, in May, it was time to go. Now I know what you’re thinking, “Italy must be so cool, so pretty, there’s so much history there,” but let me tell you what, traveling to another country is not all it’s cracked up to be. Here’s why:
The flights: to get to Italy we took three flights, meaning we started at six on a Monday morning (Kansas City time), and finally landed in Italy at nine on Tuesday Morning (2 a.m. Kansas City time). Flying the all that time in an airplane with all the movies you could think of, and as many pillows and blankets you needed were rough, let me tell you.
Spending Time in Rome: when they say Rome is busy, they’re not lying. With so much to do in the city itself, it’s no surprise how popular it is. Having to wake up to see all the historical museums and art was a challenge we gladly accepted.
Venice for a Day: Not quite as busy as Rome, but definitely another tourist site to go to. With the endless amounts of shops, gondola rides, and beautiful buildings, it’s no surprise how close we were to missing the train back to where we were staying.
Germany: of course being a short drive from Germany was too great of an opportunity to pass up. Hiking in Garmisch-Partenkirchen during a rain storm was not part of the original plan, but definitely a vacation favorite.
Jesolo Beach: another day trip not entirely planned for, but a great way to spend an afternoon before the ever present rain. Just a day after being near the Alps, it was also surreal having a picnic on the beach.
FOOD: Of course you can’t go to Italy and not tasted amazing food. I couldn’t tell you the amount of pasta or gelato I had (or amount of weight I gained) but the numerous food babies I acquired while in Italy were well worth experiencing true Italian food.
Last but not least, Family: Growing up with a family as close as mine, having even just one member missing makes your heart ache, and having two gone is almost unbearable. This vacation was more than just getting to see the world and eating great food. It was about getting to spend time with the people who are always there for you, whether you take forever in museums, stop at every purse shop you pass, are sopping wet from a rainstorm, get sand in someone’s sandwich, or even lose every adaptor someone has. The time I spent across the pond was something I’ll cherish forever…well, at least until I get to head back over.
