Venice, Italy
“Seven Must-Do Activities”
One of the most spectacularly beautiful and deeply romantic cities in the world is Venice, Italy. The old-world Venetian architecture and secluded waterways navigated by the lilting voices of singing gondoliers make for an intimately dreamy experience. Founded in the 6th Century Venice has enjoyed a history of great wealth and artistic achievement. Operatic composer, Antonio Vivaldi, was from Venice and other luminaries include, artists Veronese, Canaletto, and Fortuny, and the legendary, seducer of women, Casanova. If you and your own “Casanova” plan to visit Venice make an effort to see Adventure Woman’s “Must-Do” Activities.
1.Fortuny Museum: This wonderful museum has thankfully reopened after being closed for renovations. Mariano Fortuny converted this palace into a magnificent painting studio and it retains its former authenticity and splendor with Fortuny’s personal collections. It showcases Fortuny’s paintings, photography and luxurious fabrics. The studio was donated by Fortuny’s widow to Venice in 1956.
2. St. Mark’s Basilica: (Known as Basilica Cattedrale Patriarcale di San Marco) is the most famous and decrative of Venice’s churches and is located in St. Marks Square connected to the Doges (see below). It is an example of extravagant Byzantine architecture. The inside is just as impressive as the outside with gold and bronze mosaics on the ceilings (8,000 square meters). The marble flooring is also an exquisite piece of artwork. Actually, you are surrounded by beauty everywhere you look in the Basilica. The Greek Horses installed at the Basilica have enjoyed an amazing and colorful history (they are well-traveled horses). The originals are now housed inside at the museum while replicas are outside. http://www.basilicasanmarco.it
3. Grand Canal Tour: The Grand Canal Tour is a great way to take in the wide-variety of Venetian Architecture and absorb the diverse history of the city. It is the main waterway of Venice and is approximately two miles long and 350 feet at its widest point. Many celebrities and dignitaries have lived along this prime section of real estate and it makes for an entertaining and visually stimulating tour. Try to take an open-top boat for better views.
4. Tour Doge’s Palace: This phenomenal building, known as Palazzo Ducale, is located in St. Mark’s Square and on the edge of the Venetian Lagoon. The structure was used as governmental headquarters for the Venice Republic and home of the Republic leader, the Doge. It has been converted into a museum with significant paintings and showcases grandiose gothic architecture (construction began in the early 1300s). http://www.museiciviciveneziani.it/frame.asp?musid=8&sezione=musei
5. Take the Elevator to the Top of Campanile: The campanile is the bell tower located in St. Mark’s Square. From the top of the Campanile you can see an awe-inspiring views of the city of Venice and the famous lagoons and canal ways. And good news! There is an elevator inside so you don’t have to worry about climbing the 323 foot structure. The Campanile has a long history and endured centuries of change. In 1902 it finally collapsed but was rebuilt in 1912.
6. Piazza San Marco: (Also known as St. Mark’s Square). The “Piazza” was called “the Drawing room of Europe,” by Napoleon. This is a perfect place to take photographs as the views in every direction are spectacular. A century old tradition of St. Mark’s Square was feeding the pigeons. However, it was banned in 2008 due to perceived damage to nearby buildings and health concerns. Another concern for the Square is the flooding. St. Mark’s Square is the lowest point in Venice and is the first place to flood. Nevertheless, one can’t go to Venice without strolling around this iconic spot and imaging the legions of historic people who have strode before.
7. Take a Gondola Ride: Taking a gondola is a definite “Must Do” when visiting Venice. Yes, it is a little expensive but the memories and the experience will be worth it. A typical gondola ride is 40-50 minutes (costing around $100 US Dollars). The fare is officially set. You can share a gondola with other people (up to six) and split the fare. A gondola ride may be more romantic at night but the price increases as well. If you want a singing gondolier ask beforehand if this is a service provided.
If you go, let us know! Submit@AdventureWoman.com. We always want to hear about your adventures.
Friday, February 11, 2011
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Adventure Woman loves Skydiving!
Skydiving the great adventure!
Have you ever dreamed of skydiving? If you did, you're not unlike me or thousands of other people. I have wanted to try skydiving for the last 20+ years but I have never garnered the courage to actually JUMP!
Finally, on a trip to Las Vegas I decided to finally give it a try. Let me tell you, it is not for the faint of heart.
The worst part is boarding the plane and ascending higher and higher and higher and higher and higher... Well, you know what I mean. Finally the cars and buildings look like the proverbial "ants" on the ground.
When I fell out of the plane I think I thought I was about to die. It is difficult to breathe at that altitude and it took me by surprise (as I had never thought of it previously).
Once you get used to falling it becomes more "exciting" than "frightening." The feeling of "free-falling" is amazing and thrilling. When the parachute eventually opens you begin floating (now secure in the knowledge you're going to live)and it is just fabulously beautiful. I felt like a bird - butterfly- kite twisting and turing in the air. The adventure was surreal and so much fun. Yes! Fun!
When we landed on the ground it was like jumping from a chair. Actually, probably not that much impact. It was a graceful ending to an insanely adventurous experience.
I loved every minute of it.
For a great adventure try sky-diving, Find a reputable place and take the JUMP! Check out my YouTube video - and get a small taste of a BIG experience.
Have you ever dreamed of skydiving? If you did, you're not unlike me or thousands of other people. I have wanted to try skydiving for the last 20+ years but I have never garnered the courage to actually JUMP!
Finally, on a trip to Las Vegas I decided to finally give it a try. Let me tell you, it is not for the faint of heart.
The worst part is boarding the plane and ascending higher and higher and higher and higher and higher... Well, you know what I mean. Finally the cars and buildings look like the proverbial "ants" on the ground.
When I fell out of the plane I think I thought I was about to die. It is difficult to breathe at that altitude and it took me by surprise (as I had never thought of it previously).
Once you get used to falling it becomes more "exciting" than "frightening." The feeling of "free-falling" is amazing and thrilling. When the parachute eventually opens you begin floating (now secure in the knowledge you're going to live)and it is just fabulously beautiful. I felt like a bird - butterfly- kite twisting and turing in the air. The adventure was surreal and so much fun. Yes! Fun!
When we landed on the ground it was like jumping from a chair. Actually, probably not that much impact. It was a graceful ending to an insanely adventurous experience.
I loved every minute of it.
For a great adventure try sky-diving, Find a reputable place and take the JUMP! Check out my YouTube video - and get a small taste of a BIG experience.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Adventure Woman Loves New Orleans!
Seven “Must See” Attractions in New Orleans
New Orleans (La Nouvelle-Orléans), Louisiana, was founded in 1718, and is named after the French Regent, Duke of Orleans. Nicknamed the “Big Easy” and referred to as the “most unique city” in the United States; New Orleans is known for its delicious Creole cuisine, charming French Creole Architecture, and for being the birthplace of jazz and home to many colorful festivals; most notably, Mardi Gras.
1 Visit a Louisiana Swamp: Submit yourself to the magical lore and adventure of bayou country. Take a boat tour of the Louisiana wetlands and learn the legends of the wetlands'. You’re experience a relaxing (yet thrilling) ride watching out for beautiful New Orleans wildlife, such as, Egrets, hawks and herons. But beware; you will also possibly see snakes and alligators. But after all, what is a trip to the bayou swamplands without a genuine alligator sighting? For more information visit: http://www.zerve.com/TourNOrleans/Swamp
2. Attend the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival: The festival was founded in 1970 and continues to get bigger and better. It was been called, “The country’s very best music festival” by Life Magazine and has been called the best festival period. The festival features international artists and beyond jazz showcases, gospel, blues, R&B, Cajun, Afro-Caribbean, folk, Latin, rock, rap, country, and bluegrass music. The annual festival is approximately two weeks long. For more information: http://www.nojazzfest.com
3. Bask in the beauty of a Plantation Home: The glory and beauty of the Plantation home is synonymous with the grand old south. Oak Alley is one of America’s grandest historical structures and is a must see for every romantic spirit. Oak Alley, built is 1837, is named after the double row of great oak trees which form an impressive canopy. The trees were planted in the 18th Century (before the mansion was built) and leads to the Mississippi River. Oak Alley was originally an antebellum sugar cane plantation, but was ravaged during the Civil War. The mansion was later restored. The mansion has appeared in many movies, including Primary Colors and Interview with a Vampire. For more information: http://www.zerve.com/TourNOrleans/OakAlley
4. Eat an authentic Creole meal: Classic Cajun/Creole dishes such as gumbo and jambalaya are “must tastes” for any visit to New Orleans. Bananas Foster and Bread Pudding desserts are absolutely not to be missed (this isn’t the time to cut calories). Go to Antoine’s (established in 1840 and the oldest family run restaurant in the USA) for their Oysters Rockefeller (named after the wealthy John D. Rockefeller for the richness of the sauce). Also, visit the legendary Commander’s Palace. It was founded in 1880 and has served New Orleans dignitaries from river boat captains to Jefferson Davis and Mark Twain. For more information: www.antoines.com and www.commanderspalace.com.
5. Take a Riverboat Ride: Enter the famous history of the great Mississippi River by taking a cruise on a steamboat. Enjoy the ambiance of a bygone era while eating a delicious Creole dinner and listening to jazz music. Paradise! Vibe Mark Twain and read a copy of Life on the Mississippi before you board. For more information: http://www.steamboatnatchez.com
6. Carriage rides in the French Quarter: Enjoy the charm of the French Quarter from a mule-drawn carriage. This is an ideal way to absorb the landmarks and heritage of New Orleans. This makes for a romantic hand-holding experience for couples or a really fun excursion for kids (they’ll get an education without realizing it). You’ll tour famous sights such as, Bourbon Street, and take in the local character. The drivers will typically stop for a photo or two. For more information: www.neworleanscarriages.com
7. Mari Gras: Mardi Gras is French for Fat Tuesday and is the final feasting day before the start of lent (beginning on Ash Wednesday). The Mardi Gras season culminates on Fat Tuesday but is marked with many proceeding celebrations. Mardi Gras is known for its food (King Cakes), beads, parades, masquerade balls and outrageous costumes. It is a festive time for fun and unrestrained merriment. For more information on Mardi Gras see our Adventure of the Moment.
For more on New Orleans see our Adventure of the Moment (Mardi Gras) and our Retreat to Relaxation (hotel review)
New Orleans (La Nouvelle-Orléans), Louisiana, was founded in 1718, and is named after the French Regent, Duke of Orleans. Nicknamed the “Big Easy” and referred to as the “most unique city” in the United States; New Orleans is known for its delicious Creole cuisine, charming French Creole Architecture, and for being the birthplace of jazz and home to many colorful festivals; most notably, Mardi Gras.
1 Visit a Louisiana Swamp: Submit yourself to the magical lore and adventure of bayou country. Take a boat tour of the Louisiana wetlands and learn the legends of the wetlands'. You’re experience a relaxing (yet thrilling) ride watching out for beautiful New Orleans wildlife, such as, Egrets, hawks and herons. But beware; you will also possibly see snakes and alligators. But after all, what is a trip to the bayou swamplands without a genuine alligator sighting? For more information visit: http://www.zerve.com/TourNOrleans/Swamp
2. Attend the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival: The festival was founded in 1970 and continues to get bigger and better. It was been called, “The country’s very best music festival” by Life Magazine and has been called the best festival period. The festival features international artists and beyond jazz showcases, gospel, blues, R&B, Cajun, Afro-Caribbean, folk, Latin, rock, rap, country, and bluegrass music. The annual festival is approximately two weeks long. For more information: http://www.nojazzfest.com
3. Bask in the beauty of a Plantation Home: The glory and beauty of the Plantation home is synonymous with the grand old south. Oak Alley is one of America’s grandest historical structures and is a must see for every romantic spirit. Oak Alley, built is 1837, is named after the double row of great oak trees which form an impressive canopy. The trees were planted in the 18th Century (before the mansion was built) and leads to the Mississippi River. Oak Alley was originally an antebellum sugar cane plantation, but was ravaged during the Civil War. The mansion was later restored. The mansion has appeared in many movies, including Primary Colors and Interview with a Vampire. For more information: http://www.zerve.com/TourNOrleans/OakAlley
4. Eat an authentic Creole meal: Classic Cajun/Creole dishes such as gumbo and jambalaya are “must tastes” for any visit to New Orleans. Bananas Foster and Bread Pudding desserts are absolutely not to be missed (this isn’t the time to cut calories). Go to Antoine’s (established in 1840 and the oldest family run restaurant in the USA) for their Oysters Rockefeller (named after the wealthy John D. Rockefeller for the richness of the sauce). Also, visit the legendary Commander’s Palace. It was founded in 1880 and has served New Orleans dignitaries from river boat captains to Jefferson Davis and Mark Twain. For more information: www.antoines.com and www.commanderspalace.com.
5. Take a Riverboat Ride: Enter the famous history of the great Mississippi River by taking a cruise on a steamboat. Enjoy the ambiance of a bygone era while eating a delicious Creole dinner and listening to jazz music. Paradise! Vibe Mark Twain and read a copy of Life on the Mississippi before you board. For more information: http://www.steamboatnatchez.com
6. Carriage rides in the French Quarter: Enjoy the charm of the French Quarter from a mule-drawn carriage. This is an ideal way to absorb the landmarks and heritage of New Orleans. This makes for a romantic hand-holding experience for couples or a really fun excursion for kids (they’ll get an education without realizing it). You’ll tour famous sights such as, Bourbon Street, and take in the local character. The drivers will typically stop for a photo or two. For more information: www.neworleanscarriages.com
7. Mari Gras: Mardi Gras is French for Fat Tuesday and is the final feasting day before the start of lent (beginning on Ash Wednesday). The Mardi Gras season culminates on Fat Tuesday but is marked with many proceeding celebrations. Mardi Gras is known for its food (King Cakes), beads, parades, masquerade balls and outrageous costumes. It is a festive time for fun and unrestrained merriment. For more information on Mardi Gras see our Adventure of the Moment.
For more on New Orleans see our Adventure of the Moment (Mardi Gras) and our Retreat to Relaxation (hotel review)
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