This
site presents a glimpse into a travel memoir of an American couple who
spent nearly the entire year of 2003 traveling through Western Europe in
search of adventure, lore and romance. In between those guideposts
came a journey of discovery, excitement and wonderment, reaching for
what the world has to offer, and daring to wander just beyond the
horizon.
Keen on
exploring to satisfy our travel destiny, we searched to capture those
special moments of discovery and fulfillment. For us, this was a time we
had planned and lived for. For Vilma, a.k.a. Precious, the happy wanderer, this was to be the consummate journey.
The dream of dreams for one who had, from her youth, envisioned
searching and exploring the world in search of the little nuggets of
interest that could rest her desires.
Begin
with us as we start our journey in Venice, Italy and join in on the
annual festivities of Carnevale. What hasn't been said about Venice?
Even though we think we know this city, one cannot understate the
overwhelming beauty of its architecture and its indelible impact on the
Italian landscape. The historical significance and culture emanating
from this water wonderland is simply breathtaking. In full costume
we entered society by attending the Romantica Ball and proceeded to a
leisurely gondola ride through it's extraordinary canals and buildings.
From
Venice we traveled much of Europe, from winter to winter, ending our
journey in Istanbul, Turkey. We got involved with an undeniable zest as
only out-going personalities can do. We leased cars, got lost, chartered
yachts, boarded the wrong trains, got lost again, and walked until our
bags were stolen and our shoes wore out. Yet, we gained an education and
far-reaching awareness that will impact our lives forever.
We hope
that our journey will foster your desire to travel and search for those
dreams you've held for so long. As you read the book, sit back and
vicariously travel with us to famous sites and meet wonderful people who
shared their lives, their food and laughter. We think you'll find
that Europe is more than cathedrals, castles, or the Coliseum. We want
to share our victories and pratfalls, have you understand some of the
nuances of European travel--splashed with a dollop of history and
presented in an easy-reading storybook style. You might even find the
read humorous. Enjoy!
