We had promised our daughter, Rachel, a graduation trip in 2020 and everyone knows that CoVID made sure that didn’t happen.  In May of this year, she graduated from The Ohio State University as a Communications Major.  That graduation had its own drama but did not preclude us from going to Italy and Slovenia.

   

Our journey began in Rome, where the ancient ruins of the Colosseum and the majestic Vatican left us in awe. Strolling through the cobbled streets, we immersed ourselves in the history and culture that radiates from every corner of the Eternal City. A highlight of our time in Rome was visiting the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo's breathtaking frescoes left us with goosebumps.

Next, we traveled to Pompeii, the ancient city frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Walking through the remarkably preserved streets and homes, our guide described life as it was during those times.  From there, we headed to the coastal town of Sorrento. Perched on cliffs overlooking Naples, Sorrento offered stunning views and a taste of the famous local limoncello.  If anyone would like a limoncello spritz, let me know.  I have perfected the recipe!

Our journey along the Amalfi Coast was nothing short of breathtaking. We marveled at the dramatic cliffs and sparkling blue waters. One of the most magical experiences was visiting the Blue Grotto, where the sunlight reflecting off the limestone illuminated the water inside the cave. 

Florence was our next destination, a city that truly feels like an open-air museum. The art and architecture were overwhelming.  We have all seen pictures of the statue of David, but to witness the detail and grandeur in person was truly amazing. One of the best meals we ate was a 2 lb. steak that had been rubbed with seasonings, wrapped in paper and buried for 3 days, then grilled to perfection!

Venice was a dream come true. The canals, the gondolas, and the timeless beauty of the city were unlike anything we had ever experienced. We got lost in the atmosphere of St. Mark’s Square.

Finally, we made our way to Slovenia, where we stayed in the vibrant capital city of Ljubljana. The city’s blend of modern design and tradition was captivating, with its lively markets, riverside cafes, and Ljubljana Castle overlooking the town. However, the highlight of our Slovenian adventure was visiting our family in the countryside of Javor. The warm welcome, shared meals, dancing to accordion music and stories of the past created memories we will cherish forever.

None of this would have been possible without our amazing travel specialist, Patti Lengel, who expertly arranged every detail. Her knowledge and guidance showed us how to experience Italy coast to coast in just twelve days.  She was available to us 24/7 until we were home, making our vacation seamless and unforgettable. This summer vacation was an unforgettable journey through history, culture, and family connections. Each place we visited added a unique chapter to our adventure, making it a summer we will always remember.