Day 9-15: Reggio Emilia
“Europe is a cultural carnival, and time after time, you'll find that its best acts are free and the best seats are the cheap ones.”
-Rick Steves
With a tinge of sadness in our hearts, but with gratitude for the “mile-a-minute” experience, we went to the top of the Guelph Tower at the Hotel Guelfa Torre to say goodbye to Florence.
Day 9: Ciao Rick Steves Tour!
We say goodbye to the fun of our Rick Steves Heart of Italy 2019 Tour. Many thanks to Colleen, our generous tour host, and thanks to Rick Steves. His vision of a better world through exposure, communication, and ultimately fun is something we take to heart!
Day 10-15: Reggio Emilia
My Niece Mia
University of Modena and Reggio Emilia
Reggio Emilia is north of Tuscany. The area is known for balsamic vinegar and parmesan cheese. We learned that to get these authentic products, and the label must have the “protection geographical indication” seal given by the Ministry of Agriculture.
Our whole journey began because Eva’s and Bob’s daughter, Mia, decided to study at the University of Modena and Reggio. It was a treat to spend time with her and getting to know the local vibe from an American who lives here.
We stayed at the Hotel Posta which is one of the oldest hotels in Italy dating from the 1500s.
Reggio Emilia Opera House
These old walls are like abstract paintings full of layers, textures, and colors. How many people over the years have passed by as these walls stand silent?
Arrivederci Italia!
Final Thoughts
Whenever I travel to places I have been before, it is always like seeing it for the first time because I have changed since I last visited. New places, though, are like presents that you can’t wait to open and are surprised at what’s inside. Travel takes me outside me. I am always stunned by how big the world is.
I look at cultures from the lens of art and architecture, and this Rick Steves tour allowed me to indulge in that. Our fellow travelers enriched our travel experience through the sharing and reflection of all the things we saw. Most importantly we had a lot of fun! Thank you, Rick Steves, for your global vision and Colleen Murphy for making this happen.
May the road be solid underfoot, and your gaze is far and wide.
Happy Trails To You All,
Bob, Eva, and Paul
P.S. I hope this website is useful for you. I enjoyed putting it together and hope it conveys the terrific time we had on this trip!
