The Photograph That Got Away

Sometimes you just can't get your camera ready fast enough. I think those of us that love to travel have these moments that now exist only in our memory. Unlike the time we were in Venice, and I turned the corner at just the right moment to capture a gondolier relaxing (photo here), I was not so fortunate to have my phone ready. There we were at the end of the night, getting ready to walk into our hotel entry from one of the alleyways in Rome's beautiful Trastevere area. I had just shot the darned thing off for the night. 

And there was a photo I had to shoot: A Catholic priest about 45 or so holding up a gelato with it dripping down the cone. He was a rather tall, slender man, other than a very large belly. He wasn't smiling, but there was a look of contentment on his face. The night air was warm for the season, and he seemed to absolutely relish the idea of being alone relaxing. 

As I said, I never got the photo, so I tried AI to create one. It's the best I could do, but the magic is not there. What a great missed opportunity and a lesson learned about shutting down before I'm in my room for the night!

Trio of Artful European Signs

When I get a chance to slow down and photograph the places I travel to for work or for pleasure, I seem to discover my eyes are drawn to the signage I encounter. Big city, small town, shop around the corner, it just doesn't matter. So today, I've got three signs for you. Two from Italy and one from Cardiff, Wales.

This top one was taken at one of the world's most magical cities: Venice. There really is nothing like this anywhere else on the planet. Layers of Italian craftsmanship are everywhere you turn- and then it's all surrounded by water everywhere you look. Trees are few and far between, but the residents of the city find a way to add greenery to their narrow streets.

Next up, Cinque Terra. Five towns of various sizes and shapes and offerings. We stumbled upon this in Vernazza, the largest of the five and the one with the swimming area most loved by the locals. This sign was right around the corner from a small cave everyone was using to change into their swimwear. I wasn't prepared to go into the water, but I realized I had on a pair of dark nylon shorts that would easily make it possible. What a beautiful half an hour enjoying my time with the locals while my wife relaxed on the shore.

Cardiff, Wales may be one of the coolest towns I never expected! The citizens are intent on keeping the Welsh language alive, so every sign is in English and then Welsh. Once you get the hang of the alphabet and what sounds the letters make, it's quite fun to try your hand at speaking out the names. Locals must be very, very patient as well as having a great sense of humor! One of my favorite stops was at a coffee house named "A Shot in the Dark". The old place was filled with books- but only detective and mystery novels. It was also open until late in the evening where the place took on an almost eerie mood. Do you get the play on words? Coffee/ Shot; Murder/Gun, etc. So clever!

I'm sure as I post this, I'll run across even more sign photos and stories to go with them...

(Photographs copyright Mark Taft.)

Venetian Gondolier Makes The Day

 One of my favorite photographs! While visiting the totally unique city of Venice, we went for a stroll through the narrow winding streets. As we turned a corner, this was what greeted us. I quickly grabbed my camera, just hoping he'd stay in that exact position. And he did! So, now a much larger, clearer, and more detailed photo of this hangs in our home. What memories! (If you want to see all the photos from this trip and read about our adventures, go to this post.)

(Photograph copyright Mark Taft.)

Venice By Day or By Night

Venice, Italy is a world famous location, a city of dreams. The beauty of the canals is uninterrupted by the swarms of people who visit. One of the most interesting but not immediately noticed aspects of Venice is the utter lack of green space. Few trees, few shrubs, and next to no grass. Stone, stone, and more stone. But it's an incredible place you must experience to really understand.

These two travel posters- one by day and one by night, give a highly romanticized version of the beloved destination. Make no mistake, Venice is charming and magical in a manner than neither Disney Imagineering or Universal Creative can ever duplicate!

The Most Beautiful Restaurant in Italy

When it comes to dining in Italy, the choices are astounding with the scale and scope of meals available. Sometimes, making a decision boils down to the old real estate adage: Location, location, location. Just where would you expect to find the most beautiful restaurant in Italy? Classic Rome? Along the canals of Venice? In the hillsides of Tuscany or the fashionable streets of Milan? No, the most beautiful and world famous restaurant in a country of top choices is to be found in Sorrento. Ristorante ‘o Parrucchiano la Favorita has to be seen to be truly understood.

An unassuming facade gives no hint of the luxuries and variety of dining rooms within. It's almost as if the owners did not want you to discover the place. Beginning in 1868, yes 1868, this place has been a feast for the eyes and the taste buds due to the vision of Antonino Ercolano, a seminarian with a passion for food- and an eye for beautiful settings in which to relax and enjoy it.

We stumbled upon this amazing spot almost by accident. By this point in our trip, we were preparing ourselves to fly to Paris. We had one full day left before departing in the morning, so we wrapped up our touring by wandering the stunning avenues of the town. (Our trip report begins here. Rome is all you are led to believe it is by the travel writers! It is now one of my favorite travel locations.)

Sticking our heads inside and walking into the first two dining rooms, we knew we had to return the next day for our last dinner in the country. Reservations in hand, we awaited what we knew would be a very memorable evening. And was it ever!

Two official photos- the one at the top of the article and this one directly above.

Walking past room after room, each with its own unique personality, we ascended multiple levels until we reached the Lemon Garden. Have you ever dined inside a greenhouse? It's a wonderful experience! The lush greenery that only God could create mixes with the elegance of glass and metal to create something fresh and charming. 

Below are a few more shots of the different dining rooms:

Now, you would expect it would be very, very expensive to dine here- and you'd be wrong.  Ristorante ‘o Parrucchiano la Favorita was actually quite reasonable, only about $5-10 more per person than some of our other meals. Surprising, right?

Now, would the food match the show stopping surroundings? Most definitely. (You can see their menu here.) 

OK- just one more official photo.

The birthplace of Cannelloni. Yes, this is where it all began. For me, I had my share of pasta and was in the mood for something entirely different. I chose the grilled tenderloin with its very flavorful pink pepper sauce. The roasted potatoes that came with it were mouth watering. Just delicious. But in all honesty, the standout dish was the simple tomato and mozzarella cheese salad. Sometimes, the most common dishes are taken to the next level, and this was the case. The vine tomatoes were grown in their own greenhouse, and they are famous in the region for their robust flavor. With the perfect glass of wine, this starter dish was light and refreshing. 

In a restaurant that seated- I think I remember our waiter saying 800 - it was a well loved location for wedding receptions and corporate parties. Yet, in spite of its size, the place felt warm and intimate. The service was also warm and friendly in true Italian style. When you toss in two of your best friends, my wife and I had one more perfect evening. God's hand of blessing felt evident that night. I can't explain it, but if you have that personal relationship with him through Jesus, you know exactly what I'm talking about. 

No, this wasn't a Dine or Ditch review like the other ones I've written for Disney locations, but I can say with all certainty and no reservation at all- Eat at this place if you ever get the chance!

(Photographs copyright Mark Taft.)

A Quiet Corner in Italy

One of our favorite travel pleasures is to arrive someplace new and take a walk. Not just any walk, but one where we get lost and discover hidden alleyways and nooks and crannies. Sure, we see all the must-do sights we can, but there's something so real and charming about being off the beaten path. 

Here's one such example in Sorrento. It seems everywhere you go in Italy, you're stepping into a photographer's paradise. Sun washed walls and the rich hues of clay rooftops up against magnificent art in various forms of glass, bronze, and paint. Brightly painted flowers of rainbow colors spill across windows and onto cobblestone streets barely wider than a compact car. 

If you like this photo, check out the first two days of our recent trip to Italy and then Paris. More to come.

Day One- Italy Before France, Rome Before Paris

Day Two- The Best of Rome and The Coolest Thing I've Ever Done

(Photograph copyright Mark Taft.)

When in Venice

When Epcot's World Showcase will have to suffice since travel is unavailable, it's still worth looking over some old family vacation photos. Italy's Venice never disappoints! If it's beautiful during the day, it is absolutely stunning at night. 

In the Summer of 2007, my wife and I took a three week long adventure through Europe. Don't be mistaken in thinking we're made of money! We saved $50 a month for ten years to make it happen. (Yes, read that again- it wasn't a typo!) But boy, was it worth it! France, the UK, Italy, and Germany. It's a trip of a lifetime. You can read all about it and see our photos here.

(Photograph copyright Mark Taft.)

The Cool Blues of Cinque Terra

In the long ago and far away category, our trip to Europe in 2007 yielded sweet memories and some equally sweet photographs! We began our trip in Paris, including a visit to Disneyland Paris and the disappointing Walt Disney Studios Paris. We even came upon the French premier of Ratatouille going on across the bank. But then it was on to the real adventure- exploring Europe!

We had scrimped and saved for ten years for this 21 day trip. And it was worth every penny! We had planned to see Italy, Germany, the U.K., France and Wales. Flights were cheap once we got on the continent. (The full trip report with many, many photos is here.)

As we stopped in Cinque Terra, Italy, the day was hot, humid, and sunny and bright. Very hot. The cool blues of the water below called out to me. But what was a guy to do without a swimsuit? Hmm. Thankfully, I remembered I had wisely packed some multi-purpose synthetic trunk style underwear and was in fact wearing them that day. So, I ducked into a nearby cave after watching a few men go into it fully dressed and then come out in their swimwear. 

Once I got past my shyness, I was rewarded! The water was crisp and refreshing! Eventually, I discovered this cluster of small fishing boats, so I grabbed my camera and headed back into the water. What you see is the end result.

After that swim and some time on the beach, we headed way, way, way up the cliffs to a small restaurant and had a late lunch. With a summery salad, a little pasta, and a glass of wine, me and my favorite gal enjoyed a slice of Italy that stays with us to this day!

(Photograph copyright Mark Taft.)

It's A Small World, Mary Blair, and Venice

Imagineer Mary Blair's distinctive styling for It's A Small World helped to make it an instant classic. Her pieces of concept art could not be any more charming than they are! From the 1964 World's Fair to Hong Kong Disneyland (but not Shanghai Disneyland for political reasons, I'm sure), the beloved attraction remains so after decades upon decades of ridership. I'm not ashamed to say it is one of my favorites- music and all.

This rare piece representing Italy's Venice and her gondoliers is among the sweetest I've seen! And isn't our world in need of some love and peace and brotherhood right now?

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

Venezia: From the Canals to the Skies

From the waterside views to scenes admired from the tops of campanile of Saint Marks', Venice is a sight to behold, and it's this day's getaway location. 

Known the world over as a place of beauty, romance, mystery, and incredible food and music, Venezia is a place to slowly take in. You can't rush through it. Take time to explore the nooks and crannies and side streets. Ride on the subtle waves of the water by cruising on different types of transportation. Enjoy dusk... and dawn. Pistachio brittle and mint flavored soda makes a fine sweet snack as you walk along the streets and explore quaint shops and overpriced but charming restaurants. Take time to search other travel posts on this blog, and you'll find there's no place like this on Earth!

(Top photo The Local Italy. Video from National Geographic.)

An Evening in Venice

Simply magical. It's the only way to describe the evening beauty of Venice, Italy. A cruise down the Grand Canal is an experience you have to have to appreciate. Whether its a water taxi between islands or a very expensive gondola ride, moving on the water is the way the locals live. And following the ways of a local is always the best way to see a location and experience it most authentically. 

Pick a location and memorize it. Then go wander the back alleys that weave in and out of the city. There's no place like it on earth. At times frustrating, dirty, and crowded but always enchanting and full of surprises when you look beyond the surface. 

Cafes specialize in sweets of pistachio brittle to go with their mint flavored drinks. In the summer, four bands play each corner of St. Mark's Square, offering visitors a chance to dine, drink, and dance the night away. A pretty sweet plan! 

Taking a Gondola in Venice

Venice, Italy. In many ways, the Italian fantasy we dream about. A city of islands and canals unlike anything else on earth. St. Mark's Square, the Grand Canal, and the surrounding town of Murano (home of famous glass) calls us to explore day after day. Hop a gondola or a water taxi. It's the only way to travel!

(Poster art by Vittorio Grassi around 1920.)

A Morning in Venice

Ah, Venice! Beautiful, frustrating, fascinating, enchanting. There's no place on earth like it- and I am thankful we got to experience it together for a wonderful second honeymoon. 

Whoever took this photo left it HUGE- so it's a perfect computer desktop photo to look at and dream...

Saturday in Venice

Historic. Crumbling. Crowded. Absolutely showy and spectacular! Venice, Italy is rightfully a must see on a traveler's vacation to do list! We alternatively felt overwhelmed by the crowds, wowed by the historic city's vistas and intricate pathways that wove in and out of this city, and ultimately like most visitors, fell in love with its charms. Look closely- the city of the islands is almost all stone and marble with very few trees and even smaller amounts of grass.

I will say this about the above sunny and bright photo: It surely had to be an incredible day to get the water this blue- or its a totally photoshopped image!

(Photographer unknown.)

This is Not Disney's Italy

Every once in awhile, a television show we do not normally watch catches my eye. This happened last night after a very long work day. We slumped into bed, and flicked on the tube for a few minutes. 

Andrew Zimmern from Bizarre Foods was touring the culinary world of Venice, Italy. Instantly, I was hooked.

The images dazzled me as I remembered the island city. I wrote about our trip so long ago. (Tons of photos too.) It seemed like forever- but the power of the television made it seem like yesterday. The canals, the gondolas, St. Mark's Square, Murano glass, fresh pasta, hazelnut brittle and cool mint drinks while strolling the back alleys. 

As we watched and listened, I was reminded of how much we have traveled and how blessed we have been to do so. Much of Europe, Hawaii, much of the US, some of Canada, and even bits of Asia. I am very proud to be an American most any day (sometimes our recent government choices embarrass me), but the lure of the beauty of Europe draws me in. The villages of Italy, the peaks of Switzerland, the valleys of France, the castles of Germany, etc. 

For those of you used to the EPCOT Center version of it all, take some time away from the parks and World Showcase and go see the real thing. You'll be impressed with it all, especially the people and the sights and sounds and flavors. Take a risk and get out there. You'll be so glad you did.

(Photograph copyright Mark Taft.)

To My Only Valentine

A warm summer's day in Venice, Italy for our 25th anniversary. Just the perfect way to honor my wife (on line) for Valentine's Day. Here's to many more adventures together! With love.

The Italian Job 2

One of the wonders of Epcot's World Showcase is what's not seen. Upon entering one of the pavilions, it is quite easy to get lost in the "feel" of each nation. It's just what the Imagineers intended to happen! 

This seems to be especially effective in Italy.  Perhaps it is the fact that the buildings create a sense of three walls which embrace guests as they explore. Maybe its the gondolas on the lagoon giving a taste of Venice. (It certainly isn't an attraction! Not even a film!) Ah yes, perhaps it's the food! The smell of deliciousness wafting through the air.

The Via Napoli Restorante a Pizzeria is the latest addition to this small area, unfortunately I fear, completing the plans. Could it be more was planned? But of course!

When you look around for Disney concept art in books or on line, you usually find the expect views of Italy from the lagoon glancing toward the pavilion. Instead, as shown above, here's a nice image showing what could have been. A mix of Venice with a touch of Tuscany (off to the right side). The walls and turrets remind me of villages found all over: Siena, Lucca, and San Gimignano (my favorite of all). Trust me, it was easy to spend days lost in the area, going from one beautiful village to another! 

Oh, what could have been! But isn't that the story of today's Epcot?
(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

Dark Roast Italian Style

During my recent trip overseas, I fell in love with this ad for LavAzza Italian Espresso. Taken in Venice- and perhaps during its famous flood season- this ad captures the glamour and elegance of this most unique city. Enticing!

(Photograph copyright Mark Taft.)

Beautiful Italy

In our hustle and bustle world, there is something very calming about a trip to Italy. The colors, the sights, the people, the food and wine, the slower pace of life.

Our "major" anniversary gave us a significant reason to visit Europe back in 2007. But where to begin? London and Paris were early winners, as we had visited with our children years before- and promised each other a return visit once they were grown. We saved and save for this anniversary trip...for ten years.

Where to go? Here's how we settled it: Each of us spent a week looking at our travel books, then we wrote down the name of three locations with our first choice on the top. With so many stunning and historic locations to choose from (like much of Europe), we knew we would have to miss something- even with three weeks!

Once we opened the slips of paper, the trip began to unfold. My wife chose Rothenburg, Germany. I decided Venice, Italy was my top pick. From there, the planning fell into place. What a trip it was! And we were blessed by the Lord with a glorious celebration of 25 years of marriage- and a lifetime of memories.

(Photograph copyright Mark Taft.)

Memories of Venice

Just thinking about our trip to the incredible city. It was several years ago, but every time I think of Venice, Italy, I am so blessed we were able to travel there. In fact, our trip was about 5 years ago, just after the beginning of this blog. This photo is not mine, but if you'd like to see some of our European travel photos, go here.