Heading to Antwerp

It took forever, but I finally arrived at Michel's apartment at about 5:30pm. Hans greeted me and handed over the keys since Michel was at work, but what a welcome it was! Hans could not have been sweeter and gave me three great big hugs, all of which I desperately needed. Then I unpacked, did a ton of laundry and watched, you guessed it, Animal Planet! It was spectacular. I seriously feel like Michel's place is my second home.

Here I am on the bus from Liège airport to Brussels Central Train Station which will then take me to Antwerp!

And here's Michel's place, with a few minor modifications...

  

Dig the fancy schmancy new see-thru door! 

 

New TV!

 

 

This time around I'm staying in "Ashlee's" bed. (post script - best decision EVER!)

 

 

Michel still has all my Philly photos stuck to his microwave. He's so sweet.

And of course, my stunning view from the balcony.

The Rape of Proserpina

Finally I got a chance to see my most favourite, favourite work of art in person. It was without question, completely breathtaking.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Playing the Tourist

Today I put on my bravery pants and walked around Rome, walking past the Colosseum and the Vittorio Emanuele II Monument. Finally I came upon the Trevi Fountain and man, oh man, it did not disappoint. It was kinda fun to see thousands of people standing around, all staring in awe at the same thing. Plus I could take tons of pictures and not feel self conscious. It was a relief. Next I found my way over to Bocca della Verità and scored some pix through the gate. I am so not putting my hand in there. Then it was back to the flat to chillax and plan tomorrow's outing.

 

 

 

(No clue why this guy is smiling. I'm pretty sure he just contracted hoof and mouth, influenza, Black Plague, avian flu, swine flu, anthrax, cholera, Hepatitis A-Z, MRSA, E.coli, norovirus, meningitis, and a new strain of AIDS. Totally gross.)

The Ostilia Flat

Back to Rome! I'm not thrilled about being in this city at this time of year when the place is crawling with tourists, but here's hoping I get to see a few things and then make it to Antwerp. Thankfully, although the host is a bit of an arsehole and the apartment is a little stuffy, it's clean and I do like it. That and the fact that the Colosseum is visible from the front window.

 

 

 

Back to the Beach

On my last day I decided to get up a little early and head down to the beach for one final look. It was practically vacant, being that it's Easter Sunday, but thank goodness the bus was running and I was spared those dreaded steps. It was a vibrant and sunny day and the water was cool and crisp and pure perfection.

 

 

Good Friday Humour

 

 

Spiagga Beach and then some...

Uh-oh...more steps...

Looking up from the pebbled beach...

My favourite pizza in Italy, smothered in garlic and so tasty. That Sprite, though? It cost half of what I paid for the pie. Five bloody Euros. That's highway robbery...