Monthly Archives: May 2008
Beginning of the End
Rome Airport’s got the most cutest little shuttle train that takes you to your departure terminal. I wish Auckland had one of these!! Uploaded with plasq‘s Skitch! For the first time, I had to remove my shoes (for the x-rayed) and be “patted down” as I passed through the final stages of security. Sad to … Continue reading
Stepping Back in Time
Took the Metro to the Colesseum – the crowds had already gathered and the lines were long! What I hadn’t realised was that the ticket I bought yesterday for the Forum (€11) also entitled me entry to the Palatino and the Colesseum. After trying a passatchio gelato icecream, I studied closely the nearby Arco di … Continue reading
On a Mission
A visit to the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps was always high on my list of things I wanted to do in Roma. Before finding either one, I wandered around the Forum which I had seen from Piazza Venezia yesterday. It was incredible – I wish I had paid for an audio guide to … Continue reading
Double-decker Exploration
The first thing I spotted was a open double-decker tour bus! I did not need any convincing to buy a ticket and half and hour later I was sitting up the top, camera at the ready and touring my way around Rome. My first thoughts on Roma were the buildings and apartment blocks were similar … Continue reading
¡Adios Madrid, Buon Giorno Rome!
I am impressed by the efficiency of Roma Airport. Not only was the arrival terminal well signposted, the speed at which you passed through immigration/customs was exceptional. Even the baggage claim was fast! Next task was to find the left luggage counter and deposit one very large and heavy suitcase. I’d used the internet to … Continue reading
Thursday Afternoon Stroll
After the morning’s fiasco with the trains, I’m so glad I wasn’t put off using them to make my way to Parque del Buen Retiro (Retiro Park). What a beautiful, peaceful place to enjoy a sunny afternoon! The Retiro was originally built for the Spanish king Phillip IV and was opened to the general public … Continue reading
Negotiating The Train Station
This morning I decided to be brave, and tackle the Metro train. I wanted to spend the morning in Toledo because my Host Sister Valentina, recommended it as a wonderful place to visit. I’d already asked at the Tourist Information Office in the Plaza Mayor for directions on how to get there.With map in hand … Continue reading
Getting Around Madrid-Vision Style
30 April 2008 I’d read about the Madrid-Vision card before leaving New Zealand. After settling into Hostel Fuentes I went for a walk to Plaza Mayor to the Tourist Information Centre to purchase my card. The card is valid for 24 hours, 48 hours or 72 hours. It also allows you to enter the Museums … Continue reading
¡Hola Madrid!
29 April 2008 Madrid airport would have to be one of the most organised airports I’ve ever been in. The sign posting is so clear and you get to ride on this really cool underground train to collect your baggage – awesome! Soon after arrival, I took a wander to orientate myself and to visit … Continue reading
Beyond Argentina into Madrid
Just a little post to say that I have left (along with a piece of my heart) Buenos Aires, Argentina. The flight to Madrid was long, and I spoke not a word of English. I put all my spanish learning to good use! Fortunately I have access to the internet via a computer at Hostel … Continue reading