Ciaotraveler

My grandparents immigrated from Bugnara, Italy  to Pittsburgh, PA. in 1929 where my mother was born.   I'm from California and I love all that it offers but I love the stories my mom would tell us about her parents.  I also love traveling to Europe  and taking photos of the rich colors, landscapes and designs especially in Italy .  I first traveled to nine countries in Europe with my sister when I was 19 years old.  I've just completed my seventh trip and still find plenty to love about it.   I started this blog to share the beauty of Europe including the shops, villas, historical sites as well as provide some basic travel tips.   Having an art and design background, I love to find things that inspire me and to share them on the blog.    I  often use my travel photos as subjects for paintings or greeting cards.   I'm a Special Education Program Manager (now retired) and have visited similar spe...

The Italian Riviera Ligure... Portofino is situated along the Mediterranean Sea  close to the Cinque Terre Villages and Levanto.  It's considered the Italian Riviera, Ligure region.  See more...

The Twin Towers New York My son Zach and I visited New York in August, 2001several weeks prior to the 911 Disaster.  We were fortunate to snap these photos.  We love this great Nation!

Vernazza Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia,  Manarola, Riomaggiore  (plus Levanto and Portovenere) These are considered to be the (five) Cinque Terre villages. They're a must-see in Italy.  There are castles, beaches, shopping and great foods featuring the olive oils and pestos that originate from the Ligure region. I suggest starting in Levanto, a pretty town where you stay and travel easily by train to  Portofino, the Cinque Terre, Nice , Franc e and other areas. Levanto The main town of Levanto is in the distance. Walking distance is several hours by path to the first of the Cinque Terre towns but just a few minutes by train. We stayed at the  Villa Margherita for it's location.  This B and B is an easy walk to the station where you can catch the trains to the Cinque Terre villages. Proprietor Fede...