St. Mark's Basilica & Doge's Palace - Day 14Hello! So, did I say just how much I LOVE Venice?? It is absolutely, unequivocally, one of my favorite cities! There is no question I WILL be back! 
SAN MARCO SQUARE
VIEW OF ST. MARK'S BASILICA FROM INSIDE DOGE'S PALACE
Well, today is my last day here. While I went to Piazza San Marco yesterday and saw all the buildings in the square, I didn't go inside any of them. Today, I toured St. Mark's Basilica as well as The Doge's Palace. 
SPECTACULAR CEILING IN THE DOGE'S PALACE
Now, others may disagree with me, but I found myself more overwhelmed by the craftsmanship in the Doge's Palace than in the Valican. The ceilings in particular. There were not just spectacular paintings, but such intricate, three-dimensional carvings as well. Not to mention all the gold leafing. The details were just so magnificent. I took a few pictures but they are not given justice in my photographs. 
PRISON IN THE DOGE'S PALACE
We toured all through the Palace, including the prison. It was hard to imagine, as my Mom said, that there could be such wealth and fine living a few floors above where people were kept in stone prisons, more than likely starving, maltreated and unable to see the light of day. It was one extreme to the other and a bit depressing walking through the prison area. 
A SNACK BEFORE TOURING ST. MARK'S BASILICA
CAFFE LAVENA, ST. MARK'S SQUARE, VENICE
Mom and I stopped for a quick bite at one of the cafes in St. Mark's Square, Caffe Lavena, before going into the Basilica. Little bit of "church information" A Basilica is a church where the remains of the saint is buried. So, not surprising that in St. Mark's Basilica is the crypt of St. Mark, and as our guide told us yesterday, at least part of his remains. 
CRYPT OF ST. MARK, ST. MARK'S BASILICA
CONFESSIONALS IN ST. MARK'S BASILICA
We took a leisurely stroll back from San Marco to Rialto to our hotel. I found a cute souvenir for Rebecca, which I hope she will like! We will enjoy our last evening in Venice, I'm sure with a delectable dinner and no doubt, some gelato!! See you back tomorrow, when we move on to Florence - the last leg of my Italy trip!! -E | Edinburgh - Day 14Hi everyone! This trip has been by Land, Sea, and Air! Took the train yesterday and what a lovely scenic day it was! Traveling by rail through the Belgium, French, and English countryside. It was so serene, and quintessential. I really wish that I could've captured it better in pictures.. but I guess you'll just have to take the ride for yourselves on this one! 
Reading 'Travel and Leisure'...getting more "ideas"
And then it was Helloooooo SCOTLAND!!! We checked in and we were off! Took a city tour and could just not believe how lovely this city is! I really never imagined it was THIS LOVELY! Amazingly scenic and such an absolutely beautiful city! For the first time on this trip I was over-whelmed!!! 
Sticking to the plans, and to my itinerary. We are heading to tour the Edinburgh Castle, climb the Scott Monument, walk the Royal Mile, head to Ross Fountain & Princes Street Gardens, Carton Hill and to the Royal Botanic Gardens!!! Finally tonight at 9:30p we will in our seats ready to watch the world famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Festival. The annual global gathering showcasing the talents of musicians and performers from around the world! I know that this is gonna be a real TREAT!!! 
Well, hopefully I don't get cut off here! Seems that yesterday, my daily report was cut off...thanks Weebly! Wishing everyone out there a truly fabulous day... where ever you are and whoever you are! See ya back here tomorrow! -T |
