Page 10 - AAA Schuylkill County – AAA Now! – November/December 2015

TRAVE
The Allure of Italy
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By Judie Karhan
An exquisitely planned trip to Italy, combining the natural beauty and ethereal grace of Venice with the artistic treasures of Florence and Rome, is truly a celebration of life. For nowhere else will one find such immense cultural and historical wealth
in one country where the food is superb and the people are warm and helpful.
For 400 years, Venice has attracted the finest painters, architects and craftsmen in the world. Spend your afternoons exploring the great piazzas, the spectacular St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, the residence of the former ruler of Venice. Walk through the narrow alleys and across the curved bridges of this miraculous city, taking in
the shops where famous Venetian glass and lace are on display. Sip an espresso at a sidewalk cafe and experience the unique atmosphere that makes Venice one of the most visited cities in the world.
Florence is another one of Italy’s most important cities. Called the “Cradle of the Renaissance” for
the art and the architecture that flourished here between the 13th and 16th centuries, Florence is a mecca for art lovers. Visit the Duomo Museum, stroll past the bronze doors of the fascinating octagonal-shaped Baptistery which took Ghiberti 27 years to create and which Michelangelo declared the “Doors to Paradise.”
In Florence there is so much to choose from — the masterpieces of the Uffizi Gallery or the Pitti Palace; Michelangelo’s marble creations in the Medici Chapels or a walk across the Ponte Vecchio. Or, a stroll through Boboli gardens can be the ideal way to spend an afternoon.
Rome, the Eternal City, is the home of Julius Caesar and the powerful Holy Roman Empire. This city has influenced art, architecture, literature and government throughout the Western world for more than 2,200 years.
See the Quirinal Palace,
Piazza Venezia, Roman
Forum, Coliseum and
other landmarks.
Of course, a trip to Rome would not be complete without experiencing the majesty of the Vatican, a state and city all in one. Enter the Sistine Chapel and admire Michelangelo’s famous ceiling, gaze at the Madonna before descending into the crypts of the Vatican
where many of the Popes lay in peace.
Venice, Florence and Rome, three cities that
over time, for one reason or another, have each been considered the most important city in the world. Enjoy the unique majesty of each while taking in the glorious surroundings, the people and the overall atmosphere that makes Italy such a complete pleasure to visit.
For more information about Italy, and to make reservations, call AAA Schuylkill County.
BEST OF ITALY
September 30 - October 10, 2016
$4,899
per person. twin share
Roman antiquities, pious Assisi, Venetian canals, Renaissance Florence and Capri’s brilliant sunlight are fused with a touch of “la dolce vita” for the perfect tour of Italy.
Includes: airfare, round-trip transfers and guided touring.
For more information or reservations, contact Cathy Baldigo at (570) 622-4991.
TOUR PRESENTATION DATE TO BE ADVISED.
10
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015
Now!