Buon Giorno, Italia!

Rob's finished his first 8-week term in Cambridge, so we're celebrating with a 2-week trip to Italy (obviously).

Our first major stop on the trip is Venice, but we decided to make a detour to see nearby Verona, most widely known as the home to star-crossed lovers Romeo and Juliet.

Juliet's Balcony...but that's actually not Juliet up there

Although Romeo and Juliet didn't actually exist, we managed to visit Juliet's house, complete with romantic balcony, and a statue of Juliet that brings good luck to those who touch her right breast....I passed on the good luck this time.

You just HAVE to be romantic when you're visiting the scene of "Romeo, Romeo...wherefore art thou Romeo?!"

Verona also is the home to the 3rd largest Roman amphitheater in Italy. It's still in use, although today Verona's opera probably draws a different crowd than the gladiator games. The arena can hold up to 25,000 spectators in its 44 tiers of marble seats.
Surprisingly enough, Verona also hosts a large German Christmas market in December complete with bratwurst, lebkuchen, roasted chestnuts, and mulled wine. Everyone seemed to be enjoying the change of pace. :)

Stay tuned for some fantastic pictures (compliments of Rob) of beautiful VENICE!