#Naples water tours

[mikescoastalexpeditions]

Great Places You Should Visit during Kayak Tours in Naples

Are you a nature lover or do you love being around water? If so then Naples Florida will surely appeal to you. With its beautiful beaches, untamed nature, warm weather and still waters, this place is simply great for kayaking. For every skill level, Mike’s Coastal Expeditions has a number of kayak tours in Naples, Florida which allows every paddler to appreciate the beauty of nature in this region. In case you are a thrill seeker, a holiday maker or simply someone who wants to see some wildlife, a kayaking tour in Naples has many attractions that will leave a lasting impression.

1. Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve

Rookery Bay is an extremely interesting and atypical place in Southwest Florida. This estuary which is almost a hundred thousand acres in extent has many healthy inhabitants such as manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, and many more species of birds. If you are kayaking in Rookery Bay, you get to paddle around the mangroves and experience the sights and sounds of this sanctuary in all its glory.

Tours offered by Mike’s Coastal Expeditions are fun and educative because they help you appreciate the significance of estuaries and the animals and birds present in these regions. People who appreciate nature and want to experience kayaking Rookery Bay, will definitely find this place worth visiting.

2. Keewaydin Island

Adventurous kayakers will appreciate the fact that Keewaydin Island is off the beaten path and can only be accessed by boat or kayak. This barrier island is primarily unspoiled and possesses stunning beaches, making it a great addition to a guided kayak tour in Naples. While you enjoy paddling towards the shores of Keewaydin Island, be ready to see playful dolphins, diverse seabirds, and some more wildlife.

Given its geographical features, the island is less developed thus providing easy access to its visitors into the serene beach. Kayakers can land on the banks for some time and take in the beautiful environment. It is perfect for lounging or swimming in the clean waters of the Gulf.

3. Gordon River Greenway

Located within the city of Naples, the Naples Kayaking Experiences: Gordon River Greenway has a great kayaking treatment. This manmade waterway allows you to the greens of the mangroves and a view, only a couple of minutes from the heart of Naples. The Greenway which looks so close to the city is an invitation to the great outdoors which is why everybody loves it; tourists, and all who have business in this region, who want to balance exploration and comfort.

However, guided tours offered in this area are for the purpose of appreciating the unique coastal mangroves and the wildlife within them, as most of them are coastal. The mangrove-fringed narrow calm water of Gordon River also offers a perfect introduction to the sport of kayaking for beginners. However, the shores bustling with local birds such as herons and egrets, and even alligators would still be enticing for expert paddlers as well.

4. Clam Pass Park

Clam Pass Park is yet another scenic place where about exploring Naples on a kayak. The park contains a distinctive tidal inlet that connects a mangrove swamp with the sea. Kayaking through the pass offers shaded mangrove tunnels and sections of open water thus an interesting varied kayaking excursion.

Mike’s Coastal Expeditions presents engaging tours through Clam Pass where visitors experience sight-seeing while getting educated on the area’s plant and animal life. This is one of those places rich in shorelines and different environments that shed many waters in one kayak trip. After your paddle in the park, guests can unwind as it also features a beach with great scenery and fine white sand.

5. Barefoot beach preserve

If you want to enjoy an exotic place that has been preserved well, then you have to make sure to add the Barefoot beach preserve among other kayaking Naples tour attractions. The preserve is situated on one of the most beautiful southernmost uncluttered barrier islands in Southwest Florida, as such it provides a vista of how the region was before the encroachment of civilization.

During the kayak eco trip, as a small group, you will glide along still warm shallow waters where you will try and hunt for creatures. The reserve is really rich in the variety of fauna offering a chance to get inspired by spotting marine turtles, dolphins, edible wading birds and many other creatures. There’s also Barefoot Beach which offers a picturesque seaboard in true landscaping artistry ideal for photographers.

Why Choose Mike's Coastal Expeditions?

Mike’s Coastal Expeditions has the Best Kayak Tours in Naples for everyone who can or cannot paddle. The guides are trained and enthusiastic about the region and share more information on wildlife, ecology and history of the region. Each group is structured to enhance the scenery of the waterway in line with the comfort and enjoyment of the patrons.

Along with these highlights, it is also possible to visit other beautiful places in and around Naples with the services of Mike’s Coastal Expeditions guaranteeing that there are no two similar adventures. Be it paddling through tunnels of mangroves, cruising in the Gulf or discovering remote islands, their every tour vanquishes the natural magnificence of Naples in an exquisite manner.

Book Your Next Trip

Keen kayakers or those who are away from the sport for a long time, a guided kayak tour in Naples is a wonderful way of getting acquainted with the South West Florida ecosystems. Rookery Bay, Keewaydin Island and Clam Pass are just a few of the must-see places that offer plenty of Mother Nature’s wonders to enjoy. Contact Mike’s Coastal Expeditions now and delve into the pristine coasts of Naples before they get spoiled.

[rosecrystal]

To visit list: Some of my favorite places in Italy (Pt 1)

1. Rome (obviously) I actually lived in Rome for 6 years and I don’t think it’s overrated at all, it’s a place full of history and culture and is worth visiting at least once. Also it is huge and there’s always new things to discover no matter how long u spend there!

2. Proximity wise, in the outskirts of Rome you will also find cute seaside towns Nettuno and Anzio. Nettuno (Neptune) is a very pretty seaside small town that is also home to an ancient borgo, making the place pretty magical. Anzio is also very nice, part of it coastline has ancient ruins from Nerone times.

3. Terracina. As you may have intuited I am a seaside lover girl, Terracina is still in the outskirts of Rome and it is home to Temple of Jupiter Anxur, a temple in honor of Jupiter that is very very ancient (there’s only ruins left) that’s on the hill overlooking the city. I thought the temple was quite a magical place when I went to visit and it gave me plenty of positive vibes. The city is also very pretty.

4. Sermoneta. A small borgo in province of Latina, still in Lazio. It’s on a hill and the view is beautiful, plenty of nature, very cute kitties all around, very nice food and very nice people too.

5. Naples 🩵 Definitely worth visiting! Rich in culture rich in food and the people are very lively! Had a great time both times I visited. The second time we also took some guided tours such as seeing an old church where the “skull with ears” was located and seeing the city undergrounds.

6. Tropea. Magical magical place and home of some of the best food I’ve ever eaten (the Calabria region in general I think has the best food in Italy). I don’t think I can even explain it in words Ill just attach pictures and hope you guys get the idea.

7. Scilla. Also incredibly beautiful and picturesque, rich in history and overall beauty, and also you could find friendly cute kittens at every corner!!!!

8. Trani. A very cute city especially during summer! It has one of my favorite ports and also the food was delicious. A nice place to have a drink in the evening, very lively, also I had a great time sunbathing during the day too. I cannot swim and have a bit of a water phobia but I found the sea there very nice so I did take some baths. There’s also a huge park there that I loved.

9. Polignano a Mare. I was just passing through but explored a bit of the town and loved it so much. Very particular coastline and the town is cute, very well kept and the small streets are fairytale like.

10. Alberobello. This place is a gem. It looks like a fairytale setting because the houses (trulli) are built in a very particular way and that is so in the older times they could dismantle the rooftops in order to avoid paying tax. #slay

There will soon be a part two!!!!

[josefavomjaaga]

Letter from Duroc to Eugène about events in Spain

Apologies, I’m lazy. This letter is a bit shorter than the one from 1805 that I actually wanted to translate. I’ll do this one first.

Historical context: This letter is written from Spain, a couple of weeks after the Spanish Bourbon double abdication at Bayonne and the Dos de Mayo uprisings. Joseph has already been made king of Spain, Murat king of Naples. For the moment, everything seems fine. Several marshals and generals, Soult among them, are still in Germany, administering the occupied Prussian provinces.

[Probably Marrac, ca. 17 – 21 July 1808] Monseigneur, the Emperor is about to leave on a tour of Pau, Toulouse, Bordeaux, Rochefort, Nantes, Angers, Tours and Blois and if from there or on the way we are not recalled by the affairs of Spain, we can go hunting in Rambouillet or else we will return to Marrac.

The Empress is going to take the waters at Barège, and there has been fighting in Spain. Bessières, with 15,000 men against 35,000, had what can be called a battle and cut to pieces 35,000 men, half peasants, half troops of the line, from the garrisons of Galicia and Asturias. This was a very fortunate event because the forces gathered in the kingdom of Leon were at a point that was essential for army communications and for interesting outposts. Marshal Moncey, after defeating the insurgents in Valencia, has taken up a position closer to Madrid to obtain all that he needs from it.

Madrid is very quiet and the King will soon arrive there. The Grand Duke of Berg - King of Naples - is recovering at the spa. The Grand Duchess has gone to Paris from where she will set off for her kingdom. She is uncertain whether she will pass through Milan. It has occurred to me that there has been a lot of talk about you here and that the Emperor has expressed his satisfaction with you and the hopes he has placed in you. He made no secret of the fact that if circumstances forced him one day to return to the head of the armies, he would take you as his lieutenant in the same way as the Grand Duke. I'm sure that now you'll be making all sorts of wishes for war.

I thought you would be very pleased to know this and I am very happy to know it too. Please accept, Monseigneur, the assurance of my respect and attachment. Le duc de Frioul

[P.S.:] General Sorbier hopes to have returned to favour and to be able to continue as your aide-de-camp. He was very sad to think that he would have to give that up.

-

Events indeed soon would have recalled Napoleon to Spain, with the defeats of Baylén and Vimeiro and Joseph being chased from his throne. Except he didn’t go there because he chose to meet Alexander in Erfurt first and to let Joseph hang a little longer. He will only return late in the year.

Of course Duroc will praise Bessières’s victory to best buddy Eugène. 😁

There is indeed some indication that Eugène’s name was floated around during the discussion in Bayonne, at least such rumours were mentioned in newspapers. This may have been only to distract from Napoleon’s true plans, however. As far as I am aware, he only offered the crown of Spain to his brothers Louis, Jérôme and possibly Lucien (?) before giving it to Joseph and letting Murat choose between Portugal and Naples.

However, there must have been an earlier letter from Duroc to Eugène that is now lost, hinting at Eugène possibly being a candidate for the throne of Naples if Joseph left for Spain. We know this because Eugène, as a footnote states, mentions this letter from Duroc in a letter to his sister in June 1808. And his reaction to that veiled proposal was quite characteristic, too: Dieu me garde de cette galère! - God save me from this mess!

So, presumably, Eugène for once was grateful to Murat for picking Naples as his kingdom.

The passage in which Duroc gossips about Napoleon being satisfied with Eugène’s work reminds me a bit of the brief congratulation to Murat that I posted earlier. Napoleon was not in the habit of praising people to their face, so Duroc made sure they knew that the emperor thought they had done well.

General Sorbier by the way had been Eugène’s aide de camp since 1807 but had then received a promotion and had to move on to take a command in the army of Portugal. I’m not sure why he would have been in disgrace, maybe that’s just a figure of speech. In any case, he did return to Eugène’s side as his ADC, only to get mortally wounded during the battle of Caldiero in 1809. There’s a letter from Eugène to his wife mention that "poor Sorbier has been seriously wounded". Sorbier was transported back to Verona but died of his wounds some time later.

[umichenginabroad]

Week 4: Snorkeling and Venezia

Ciao again!

This past week featured a fun field trip for Intro to Marine Bio and my first big week adventure! For the first field trip, we explored different habitats in Ieranto Bay, a marine conservation area only accessible through kayaking or by hiking down. We took the hiking route, taking in the picturesque landscape as we went.

Around 45 minutes later we got down to the bay and split into three groups to rotate through the day’s activities. My group had free time first; I spent the hour at the beach, swimming and enjoying the lovely clear water. Kayaking came next. Although we couldn’t cross the entire bay due to strong winds, we kayaked to another section, going in and out of a few caves and observing different marine habitats. I loved exploring the caves, especially one where it was so low you had to use your hands instead of the paddle to navigate! Lastly, our professor guided us in snorkeling, pointing out several key organisms and marine structures we had discussed in class. This might’ve been my favorite part as I loved diving down to look at everything up close (I even swam through an underwater tunnel lined with bright orange corals!)

(views of the bay during the hike down)

(four of us representing UMich in Ieranto Bay with the water and cliff in the background)

Over the weekend, I visited Venice and a few of the surrounding islands with some friends. I can honestly say it was the most unique place I’ve been so far. Wandering around and getting lost was so fun as there was something neat around every corner. We stayed the night in Naples Friday as we had a very early train Saturday morning (yay 4 am wake up). The train ride went smoothly and 5 hours later we emerged in The Floating City.

(Pictures of the colorful Venetian houses lining the edges of canals)

We took in the sights and wandered around for the afternoon before getting dinner (the pasta was delicious) and gelato (also delicious). Sunday morning, a few of us got up bright and early to see St. Mark’s basilica before the rush (slept in until 5am this time). My jaw was practically on the floor from admiring the intricate ceiling mosaics and it was worth every second of sacrificed sleep. Even today, creating artwork like it would be an impressive feat, let alone in the 11th century when the Church was constructed.

(Part of the outside of St. Mark's Basilica featuring ornate mosaics and paintings)

After some morning sightseeing, we booked a boat tour for 20 euros each to take us to Murano and Burano, two smaller islands known for their glass and lace making, respectively. Our stop in Murano also included a live glass blowing demonstration! I am now the proud owner of a hand-made Venetian glass bead bracelet and an adorable glass snail (name is still pending). Burano was very quaint with canals lined with vibrant houses and filled with cafes and small shops highlighting their handmade lace.

(First picture of a glass blowing presentation on Murano, the other two pictures of the canals of Burano. Yes, the tower in the third pic is leaning, it's not a crooked picture!)

Once back on the main island, we did a little shopping, ate some more yummy pasta, and took in the sights again before heading back to the main bus station to board our overnight bus, beginning our trek back to Sorrento. I lucked out and had both seats to myself on the bus, allowing me to get some much needed shut eye as I had my physics midterm that same morning!

I am already missing the charming streets and enchanting canals of Venice, but I have an exciting week and another weekend adventure ahead to keep me busy!

Arrivederci,

Marika Ruppart

Mechanical Engineering

Engineering in Sorrento, Italy

[orthodoxydaily]

Saints&Reading: Wednesday, March 27, 2024

march 14_march27

VENERABLE BENEDICT OF NURSIA, ABBOT (543)

Saint Benedict was born in Norcia around 480 AD. That historical time frame was quite difficult, as it was a mere four years before the Western Roman Empire formally fell by the deposition of the last Emperor, Romulus Augustulus. The only authentic life of Saint Benedict is contained in the second book of Pope Saint Gregory’s Dialogues, probably written between 593 and 594 AD. 

After attending primary schools in Norcia, Benedict went to Rome to broaden his knowledge of literature and law. However, since he was probably disgusted by the dissolute lifestyle of his peers and by Rome’s difficult political situation, he retired to Affile with a group of priests, taking his old nurse with him as a servant. 

At Affile, Saint Benedict worked his first miracle, restoring to perfect condition an earthenware wheat sifter that his man-servant had accidentally broken. This miracle's notoriety drove Benedict to withdraw further from social life. He took shelter in a cave in the ruins of Nero’s village, near Subiaco, where he began to live as a hermit. Immersed in loneliness, his only contact with the outside world was with a monk called Romanus, whose monastery was nearby. He gave Saint Benedict a monk’s habit and provided for his spiritual and material needs. Three solitary years followed. Some shepherds befriended Benedict. They began to follow his teachings and the pastoral and apostolic principles of the Benedictine Order took root. 

After resisting a strong temptation against chastity, Benedict prepared to live through a new experience, following the example of the ancient Fathers of Christian Monasticism. At first, the community of Vicovaro wanted him as its Abbot, but the failed attempt of a monk to poison him forced Benedict to return to his solitude. Afterwards, he founded twelve monasteries and assigned twelve monks to each of them. In addition, he founded a thirteenth monastery for novices and those needing education. Benedict’s fame spread so rapidly, even in Rome, that two illustrious men, Equizius and the nobleman Tertullus, entrusted him with their two sons, Maurus and Placidus. They were to become the first two gems of the Benedictine family. 

During his life, Saint Benedict performed many miracles. He found water on a desolate mountaintop to quench the thirst of his monks. He retrieved a bill hook’s iron from the bottom of a lake and rejoined its handle. He prevented a monk from leading a dissolute life through intervention. In addition, he made Maurus walk on water to save the young Placidus from drowning. 

Unfortunately, a priest called Florentius was envious of Benedict’s popularity and his envy forced the Saint to depart in spite of insistence from his disciples. After leaving Subiaco, Benedict went towards Cassino. In the period between 525 and 529 AD he founded the Abbey of Montecassino. It would become the most famous abbey in continental Europe. Under Benedict’s direction, the old acropolis-sanctuary towering above the declined Roman municipium of Casinum was turned into a monastery that was much bigger than those built at Subiaco. On the remains of the altar of Apollo he built a chapel dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, while the temple of Apollo itself was turned into an oratory for the monks which was dedicated to Saint Martin of Tours. 

  At Montecassino, Saint Benedict displayed prodigious activity. He supervised the monastery's building, established a monastic order, and performed many miracles. He brought back from death a youngster, miraculously supplied the monastery with flour and oil in its time of need, and displayed the gift of prophecy. In the autumn of 542 AD, while the Goth King Totila was passing through Cassino en route to Naples to attack it, he decided to test Saint Benedict because he had already heard of his gifts and charisms. Consequently, Totila sent his squire dressed as a king to greet the monk, but Saint Benedict soon unmasked him. When he finally met Totila, he warned him with a dire prediction: “You have hurt many, and you continue to do it; now stop behaving badly! You will enter Rome, you will cross the vast sea, you will reign for nine years; however in the tenth year, you will die.” And that is exactly what happened. Saint Benedict showed the same virtue as he cried bitterly when confronted with the vision of the first destruction of his monastery. Notwithstanding, he received from God the grace to save all the monks. 

Saint Benedict devoted himself to evangelizing the local population who practiced pagan worship. Shortly before he died, Saint Benedict saw the soul of his sister Saint Scholastica rising to heaven in the form of a dove. This vision happened a few days after their last talk together at the foot of Montecassino. In a vision, Benedict saw the soul of Bishop Germanus of Capua taken by angels in a fire globe. These visions, for Pope Saint Gregory the Great, showed a close union between Benedict and God, a union so intense that the Saint was given the share of an even more magnificent vision, the whole of creation as gathered in a sunbeam. 

In the end, a life so noble was justifiably followed by a much-glorified death. According to tradition, Saint Benedict died on March 21, 547 AD. He foresaw his coming death, informing his close and faraway disciples that the end was near. Six days before dying, he had the grave, which he was to share with his deceased sister, Saint Scholastica, opened. Then, completely exhausted, he asked to be taken into his oratory where, after taking his last Holy Communion, he died supported by his monks.

Source: St Benedict Church

SAINT ROSTISLAV-MICHAEL, GREAT PRINCE OF KIEV (1167)

Saint Rostislav-Michael, Great Prince of Kiev, was the son of the Kievan Great Prince Saint Mstislav the Great (June 14), and the brother of holy Prince Vsevolod-Gabriel (February 11, April 22, and November 27). He was one of the mid-twelfth century's great civil and churchly figures.

His name is connected with the fortification and rise of Smolensk, and both the Smolensk principality and the Smolensk diocese.

Up until the twelfth century the Smolensk land was part of the Kievan realm. The beginning of its political separation took place in the year 1125, when holy Prince Mstislav the Great, gave Smolensk to his son Rostislav (in Baptism Michael) as an inheritance from his father, the Kievan Great Prince Vladimir Monomakh. Thanks to the work and efforts of Saint Rostislav, the Smolensk principality, which he ruled for more than forty years, expanded and was built up with cities and villages, adorned with churches and monasteries, and became influential in Russian affairs.

Saint Rostislav founded the cities of Rostislavl, Mstislavl, Krichev, Propoisk, and Vasiliev among others. He was the forefather of the Smolensk princely dynasty.

In 1136 Saint Rostislav succeeded in establishing a separate Smolensk diocese. Its first bishop was Manuel, installed between March-May of 1136 by Metropolitan Michael of Kiev. Prince Rostislav issued an edict in the city of Smolensk assuring Bishop Manuel that he would provide him with whatever he needed. On September 30, 1150 Saint Rostislav also ceded Cathedral Hill at Smolensk to the Smolensk diocese, where the Dormition cathedral and other diocesan buildings stood.

Contemporaries thought highly of the church construction of Prince Rostislav. Even the sources that are inclined to report nothing more about it note that “this prince built the church of the Theotokos at Smolensk.” The Dormition cathedral, originally built by his grandfather, Vladimir Monomakh, in the year 1101 was rebuilt and expanded under Prince Rostislav. The rebuilt cathedral was consecrated by Bishop Manuel on the Feast of the Dormition, August 15, 1150. Prince Rostislav was a “builder of the Church” in a far wider sense: he endowed the Smolensk Dormition church of the Mother of God, and transformed it from a city cathedral into the ecclesiastical center of the vast Smolensk diocese.

Holy Prince Rostislav was the builder of the Smolensk Kremlin, and of the Savior cathedral at the Smyadynsk Boris and Gleb monastery, founded on the place of the murder of holy Prince Gleb (September 5). Later his son David, possibly fulfilling the wishes of his father, transferred the old wooden coffins of Saints Boris and Gleb from Kievan Vyshgorod to Smyadyn.

In the decade of the fifties of the twelfth century, Saint Rostislav was drawn into a prolonged struggle for Kiev, which involved representatives of the two strongest princely lines: the Olgovichi and the Monomakhovichi.

On the Monomakhovichi side the major contender to be Great Prince was Rostislav’s uncle, Yurii Dolgoruky. Rostislav, as Prince of Smolensk, was one of the most powerful rulers of the Russian land and had a decisive voice in military and diplomatic negotiations.

For everyone involved in the dispute, Rostislav was both a dangerous opponent and a desired ally, and he was at the center of events. This had a providential significance, since Saint Rostislav distinguished himself by his wisdom regarding the civil realm, by his strict sense of justice and unconditional obedience to elders, and by his deep respect for the Church and its hierarchy. For several generations he was the bearer of the “Russkaya Pravda” (“Russian Truth”) and of Russian propriety.

After the death of his brother Izyaslav (November 13, 1154), Saint Rostislav became Great Prince of Kiev, but he ruled Kiev at the same time with his uncle Vyacheslav Vladimirovich. After the latter’s death, Rostislav returned to Smolensk, ceding the Kiev princedom to his other uncle, Yurii Dolgoruky, and he removed himself from the bloodshed of the princely disputes. He occupied Kiev a second time on April 12, 1159 and he then remained Great Prince until his death (+ 1167). More than once, he had to defend his paternal inheritance with sword in hand.

The years of Saint Rostislav’s rule occurred during one of the most complicated periods in the history of the Russian Church. The elder brother of Rostislav, Izyaslav Mstislavich, a proponent of the autocephaly of the Russian Church, favored the erudite Russian monk Clement Smolyatich for Metropolitan, and wanted him to be made Metropolitan by a council of Russian bishops, without seeking the usual approval from the Patriarch of Constantinople. This occurred in the year 1147.

The Russian hierarchy basically supported Metropolitan Clement and Prince Izyaslav in their struggle for ecclesiastical independence from Constantinople, but several bishops headed by Saint Niphon of Novgorod (April 8), did not recognize the autocephaly of the Russian metropolitanate and shunned communion with it, having transformed their dioceses into independent ecclesial districts, pending the resolution of this question. Bishop Manuel of Smolensk also followed this course. Saint Rostislav understood the danger which lay hidden beneath the idea of Russian autocephaly for these times, which threatened the break-up of Rus. The constant fighting over Kiev among the princes might also lead to a similar fight over the Kievan See among numerous contenders, put forth by one princely group or another.

The premonitions of Saint Rostislav were fully justified. Yurii Dolgoruky, who remained loyal to Constantinople, occupied Kiev in the year 1154. He immediately banished Metropolitan Clement and petitioned Constantinople for a new Metropolitan. This was to be Saint Constantine (June 5), but he arrived in Rus only in the year 1156, six months before the death of Yurii Dolgoruky (+ May 15, 1157). Six months later, when Saint Rostislav’s nephew Mstislav Izyaslavich entered the city on December 22, 1157, Saint Constanine was obliged to flee Kiev, while the deposed Clement Smolyatich returned as Metropolitan. Then a time of disorder began in Russia, for there were two Metropolitans.

All the hierarchy and the clergy came under interdict: the Greek Metropolitan suspended the Russian supporters of Clement, and Clement suspended all the supporters of Constantine. To halt the scandal, Saint Rostislav and Mstislav decided to remove both Metropolitans and petition the Patriarch of Constantinople to appoint a new archpastor for the Russian metropolitan See.

But this compromise did not end the matter. Arriving in Kiev in the autumn of 1161, Metropolitan Theodore died in spring of the following year. Following the example of Saint Andrew Bogoliubsky (July 4), who supported his own fellow ascetic Bishop Theodore to be Metropolitan, Saint Rostislav put forth his own candidate, who turned out to be the much-suffering Clement Smolyatich.

The fact that the Great Prince had changed his attitude toward Metropolitan Clement, shows the influence of the Kiev Caves monastery, and in particular of Archimandrite Polycarp. Archimandrite Polycarp, who followed the traditions of the Caves (in 1165 he became head of the monastery), was personally very close to Saint Rostislav.

Saint Rostislav had the pious custom of inviting the igumen and twelve monks to his own table on the Saturdays and Sundays of Great Lent, and he served them himself. The prince more than once expressed the wish to be tonsured a monk at the monastery of Saints Anthony and Theodosius, and he even gave orders to build a cell for him.

The monks of the Caves, a tremendous spiritual influence in ancient Rus, encouraged the prince to think about the independence of the Russian Church. Moreover, during those years in Rus, there was suspicion regarding the Orthodoxy of the bishops which came from among the Greeks, because of the notorious “Dispute about the Fasts” (the “Leontian Heresy”). Saint Rostislav’s pious intent to obtain the blessing of the Patriarch of Constantinople for Metropolitan Clement came to naught. The Greeks believed that appointing a Metropolitan to the Kiev cathedra was one of their most important prerogatives. This served not only the ecclesiastical, but also the political interests of the Byzantine Empire.

In 1165 a new Greek Metropolitan arrived at Kiev, John IV, and Saint Rostislav accepted him out of humility and churchly obedience. The new Metropolitan, like his predecessor, governed the Russian Church for less than a year (+ 1166). The See of Kiev was again left vacant, and the Great Prince was deprived of the fatherly counsel and spiritual wisdom of a Metropolitan. His sole spiritual solace was the igumen Polycarp and the holy Elders of the Kiev Caves monastery and the Theodorov monastery at Kiev, which had been founded under his father.

Returning from a campaign against Novgorod in the spring of 1167, Saint Rostislav fell ill. When he reached Smolensk, where his son Roman was prince, relatives urged him to remain at Smolensk. But the Great Prince gave orders to take him to Kiev. “If I die along the way,” he declared, “put me in my father’s monastery of Saint Theodore. If God should heal me, through the prayers of His All-Pure Mother and Saint Theodosius, I shall take vows at the monastery of the Caves.”

God did not fulfill Saint Rostislav’s last wish to end his life as a monk of the holy monastery. The holy prince died on the way to Kyiv on March 14, 1167. (In other historical sources, the year is given as 1168). His body, in accord with his last wishes, was brought to the Kyiv Theodosiev monastery.

Source: Orthodox Church in America_OCA

ISAIAH 5:16-25

16 But the Lord of hosts shall be exalted in judgment, And God who is holy shall be hallowed in righteousness. 17 Then the lambs shall feed in their pasture, And in the waste places of the fat ones strangers shall eat. 18 Woe to those who draw iniquity with cords of vanity, And sin as if with a cart rope; 19 That say, “Let Him make speed and hasten His work, That we may see it; And let the counsel of the Holy One of Israel draw near and come, That we may know it.” 20 Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! 21 Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes, And prudent in their own sight! 22 Woe to men mighty at drinking wine, Woe to men valiant for mixing intoxicating drink, 23 Who justify the wicked for a bribe, And take away justice from the righteous man! 24 Therefore, as the fire devours the stubble, And the flame consumes the chaff, So their root will be as rottenness, And their blossom will ascend like dust; Because they have rejected the law of the Lord of hosts, And despised the word of the Holy One of Israel. 25 Therefore the anger of the Lord is aroused against His people; He has stretched out His hand against them And stricken them, And the hills trembled. Their carcasses were as refuse in the midst of the streets. For all this His anger is not turned away, But His hand is stretched out still.

GENESIS 4:16-26

16 Then Cain went out from the presence of the Lord and dwelt in the land of Nod on the east of Eden. 17 And Cain knew his wife, and she conceived and bore Enoch. And he built a city, and called the name of the city after the name of his son—Enoch. 18 To Enoch was born Irad; and Irad begot Mehujael, and Mehujael begot Methushael, and Methushael begot Lamech. 19 Then Lamech took for himself two wives: the name of one was Adah, and the name of the second was Zillah. 20 And Adah bore Jabal. He was the father of those who dwell in tents and have livestock. 21 His brother’s name was Jubal. He was the father of all those who play the harp and flute. 22 And as for Zillah, she also bore Tubal-Cain, an instructor of every craftsman in bronze and iron. And the sister of Tubal-Cain was Naamah. 23 Then Lamech said to his wives: “Adah and Zillah, hear my voice; Wives of Lamech, listen to my speech! For I have killed a man for wounding me, Even a young man for hurting me. 24 If Cain shall be avenged sevenfold, Then Lamech seventy-sevenfold.” 25 And Adam knew his wife again, and she bore a son and named him Seth, “For God has appointed another seed for me instead of Abel, whom Cain killed.” 26 And as for Seth, to him also a son was born; and he named him Enosh. Then men began to call on the name of the Lord.

[ryosukekiyasu]

March 26, 2024

Stockholm, Sweden show

SOLD OUT

—-

Ryosuke Kiyasu EU tour 2024 Spring

16 Mar. Sat - Antwerp, Belgium at Bosbar

18 Mar. Mon - Cologne, Germany at 674FM

20 Mar. Wed - Copenhagen, Denmark at The Water Tower

21 Mar. Thur - Malmo, Sweden at Hypnos Theatre

24 Mar. Sun - Arvika, Sweden at Kolonin

26 Mar. Tue - Stockholm, Sweden at Larrys Corner

27 Mar. Wed - Bologna, Italy at Freakout Club

28 Mar. Thur - Feltre, Italy at Fermentazioni

29 Mar. Fri - Bergamo, Italy at Performatorio

30 Mar. Sat - Milan, Italy at Arci Bellezza

31 Mar. Sun - Padova, Italy at Circolo Nadir

1 Apr. Mon - Fano, Italy at Umanesimo Artificiale

2 Apr. Tue - Pescara, Italy at Secret Location

3 Apr. Wed - Rome, Italy at Rccb INIT

5 Apr. Fri - Prato, Italy at Spazio Materia

6 Apr. Sat - Agropoli, Italy at Tabarreria

7 Apr. Sun - Naples, Italy at Momento Forever

9 Apr. Tue - Turin, Italy at Piccola Bottega degli Orrori

10 Apr. Wed - Geneva, Switzerland at La Cave 12

11 Apr. Thur - Lausanne, Switzerland at HumuS librairie & espace d'arts

12 Apr. Fri - Marseille, France at EMBOBINEUSE THEATRE DE FORTUNE

13 Apr. Sat - Paris, France at Chair de Poule

[giovannibenvenuto]

Sorrento Adventures: Your Trusted Tour Guide

Are you ready to embark on a journey through the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Sorrento and its surroundings? Sorrento, with its captivating charm and picturesque beauty, is the perfect gateway to explore the wonders of Italy's Amalfi Coast. In this blog, we'll be your trusted Sorrento tour guide, taking you on an unforgettable adventure that includes day trips from Sorrento, an exploration of its tours, and a glimpse into the captivating sightseeing opportunities in this enchanting region.

Exploring Sorrento: Day Trips and Tours

Day Trips from Sorrento

Sorrento serves as an excellent starting point for various day trips to neighboring gems. From here, you can venture out to:

Positano: Known for its colorful cliffside houses and pristine beaches, Positano is a must-visit destination. Our Sorrento day trips to Positano offer a chance to wander through charming streets, soak up the Mediterranean sun, and indulge in the local cuisine.

Pompeii: Dive into history with a day trip to the ancient city of Pompeii. Explore the remarkably preserved ruins, offering a glimpse into life during Roman times, and marvel at the hauntingly beautiful remnants of a bygone era.

Amalfi: Explore the picturesque town of Amalfi, famous for its stunning coastal views and historical architecture. Our day trips from Sorrento to Amalfi provide an opportunity to soak in the Amalfi Coast's unique beauty.

Capri: Take a ferry from Sorrento to the island of Capri, known for its pristine waters, limestone cliffs, and upscale boutiques. Discover the charm of Capri Town, visit the stunning Blue Grotto, and enjoy the island's vibrant atmosphere.

Sorrento Tour Guide Services

Our Sorrento tour guide services are designed to make your visit to this stunning coastal town and its neighboring attractions as enriching as possible. Our knowledgeable guides are well-versed in the history, culture, and local highlights, ensuring that you get the most out of your experience.

Sightseeing in Sorrento

Sorrento itself boasts a wealth of attractions that are worth exploring. Here are some must-see sights in the town:

Piazza Tasso: The central square of Sorrento, bustling with cafes, shops, and vibrant street life.

Villa Comunale: A charming park with panoramic views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius.

Sorrento Cathedral: An exquisite church featuring stunning architecture and religious art.

Marina Grande: A picturesque fishing village with colorful boats and seafood restaurants.

Book Your Sorrento Adventure Today

Are you ready to embark on a Sorrento adventure filled with captivating day trips, informative tours, and unforgettable sightseeing experiences? Look no further. Sorrento Adventures is your trusted Sorrento tour guide, dedicated to making your visit a truly memorable one. Explore the stunning Amalfi Coast, delve into ancient history, and immerse yourself in the beauty of Sorrento and its surroundings.

For more information on our day trips from Sorrento, Sorrento tours, and the best sightseeing opportunities, contact us today. Your Sorrento adventure awaits! 

[europeankonnectforall]

Discover the Perfect Corporate Italy Holiday Tour Package with European Konnect

Italy, the land of timeless beauty, vibrant culture, and exquisite cuisine, is not only a haven for leisure travelers but also an ideal destination for corporate getaways. A Corporate Italy Holiday Tour Package offers the perfect blend of work and leisure, enabling teams to bond, recharge, and find inspiration amidst the enchanting landscapes of this Mediterranean gem. Whether it’s a conference in the bustling city of Milan, a team-building retreat in Tuscany’s rolling vineyards, or an incentive trip to the historic streets of Rome, Italy caters to all corporate travel needs.

Imagine hosting a corporate event in Venice, with its romantic canals serving as a backdrop for productive meetings and networking sessions. A Corporate Italy Holiday Trip Package ensures every aspect of your trip is meticulously planned, leaving you free to focus on achieving your business goals. From luxury accommodations to state-of-the-art meeting venues and personalized excursions, this package guarantees a seamless experience that combines professionalism with Italy’s irresistible charm.

For those looking to integrate cultural exploration into their corporate itinerary, the Corporate Italy Holiday Tourism Package is an ideal choice. Experience the grandeur of Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, and marvel at the architectural wonders like the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio. After a day of engaging discussions and workshops, unwind with your team while enjoying authentic Italian gelato or indulging in a wine-tasting session.

Italy’s diverse cities also make it an excellent destination for incentive travel. Reward your team with a Corporate Italy Holiday Journey Package that takes them to the stunning Amalfi Coast, where the azure waters meet picturesque cliffs. Whether it’s relaxing on pristine beaches, cruising along the coast, or exploring charming towns like Positano and Ravello, this journey fosters team spirit and rejuvenates employees for future challenges.

For businesses that require tailor-made travel arrangements, the Corporate Italy Holiday Travel Package offers unmatched flexibility and convenience. European Konnect specializes in creating bespoke itineraries that align with your company’s objectives and preferences. Whether your group prefers exploring Italy’s historical landmarks, engaging in outdoor adventures, or savoring culinary delights, the package is designed to meet diverse interests.

Italy’s excellent connectivity and infrastructure make it an ideal destination for corporate groups. Major cities like Rome, Milan, and Naples are equipped with modern convention centers and top-tier hotels, ensuring a productive and comfortable stay. Meanwhile, the country’s rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty provide ample opportunities for recreation and relaxation, creating a balanced experience for all participants. Embark on a transformative corporate journey with a Corporate Italy Holiday Tour Package that leaves a lasting impression. From fostering stronger team dynamics to experiencing the best of Italian culture and hospitality, this package is a gateway to achieving both professional and personal growth. Partner with European Konnect to craft an extraordinary travel experience tailored to your needs and let Italy’s magic inspire your team like never before.

[hangonimevolving]

Italia!

Our family’s winter break this year was awesome. After a busy and difficult few fall months, we had a treat of a winter vacation to take the edge off, and give us much to smile about. This winter, we traveled to Italy for a vacation full of sightseeing, historical delights, and every manner of delicious foodstuff to savor. What a fun time!

The kids’ school calendars ran through Friday, December 20th - and we wasted no time, with our flights booked to depart for Italy on the 21st. Interesting aside: we had planned out and booked our air and accommodations on October 20th, not realizing that a short 8 days later, we’d be living through the Horror Movie - and of course, in the aftermath, we had several moments of doubt and anxiety about whether we ought to travel at all for the holidays, and certainly whether we should leave the country. In the end, we coped by purchasing some $$$ but full-coverage travel insurance, and then we just powered through and set to making plans.

Our itinerary was interesting, in that we flew into one city and out another, with one city-to-city one-way flight and a few train rides in the middle. In our family though, recall that all things aviation- and transit-related are a part of the fun - and so this was actually a positive point of our journey, and it definitely gave folks the thrills we had hoped it would.

Days 1-3 of our vacation were spent in scenic Venice:

We did all the things one does in Venice. Gondola ride, tour ed the Palazzo Ducale and Basilica San Marco, walked the narrow streets and alleyways, crossing footbridges over canals and window-shopping at all the cute boutiques and heavenly-smelling bakeries. We did a short water-bus ride to the island of Murano, where we toured a glass-blowing factory and window-shopped some more. And of course, we got our first few tastes of real Italian food - mmmm! Venice is a nice first stop in Italy because there are some beautiful and picturesque things to see and do, but not *too* much - so you get to mentally adjust to being on vacation, and just enjoying the views.

Soon, it was Day 4 - Christmas Day! We headed to the airport, and took a short domestic flight to Rome, where we would be spending a total of four days.

Rome is awesome - a true world metropolis, and also one of the most important ancient cities in the world! The former Latin geek in me is always so thrilled to be there. And to land on Christmas Day! Christmas is such a special season in this Catholic country - it was really an experience of a lifetime to behold. We did SO much in Rome - toured ancient Roman public baths, took a tour at the Vatican and Basilica San Pietro, tossed coins in the Trevi fountain, gazed at the skylight of the Pantheon, strolled the Christmas market at Piazza Navona, walked around in the Colosseum and all over the ancient Roman Forum, and toured the San Sebastián catacombs and the crypts of the Capucchin Friars. We stayed across the street from the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, so we got to visit that too on our last day. There was so much more, but I forget! Oh and obviously - we ate ALL THE THINGS. Side note: I gave up gluten nearly a year ago (the hope is that it helps with nagging chronic joint inflammation) - and Italy is one of the most gluten-free friendly countries I’ve ever visited! There is a high incidence of celiac disorder in Italy apparently, so the government has made strict rules for food labeling on menus, and presenting gluten-free options to diners. There wasn’t one meal where I felt deprived of the tasty delights that the rest of the family was enjoying!!! Rome was especially great because not only did we gorge all kinds of traditional Italian food, but we also ventured into the “Italian” versions of other cuisines, like Chinese, Indian, and Lebanese. All were delish.

Soon it was time to pull up stakes and head to our next stop: Naples. We took Trenitia for this sector, it was about a 1.5 hour trip and very comfortable/efficient.

Alright. So, this was Dr. Spouse and my second trip to Italy together, with our first time being hour honeymoon in 2006 (and technically, it was my third trip to Italy, because I visited Rome for a week in 2016 for a work event). It was our second time to Naples. I have always felt that I have a pretty good memory — so I have to admit I was a little shocked when we got to Naples, and it was completely different than how I remember. Namely (and I’m sorry to say this! but) it was FILTHY!!! The entire city was absolutely disgusting. The streets were COVERED at every turn in garbage, overflowing trash bins and dumpsters, cigarette butts, overturned food containers, and dog shit. EWWWW!!! We literally had to hold our noses while walking and I was in constant high-alert, screeching at Dr. Spouse and the kids to keep their eyes trained on the ground in front of them so they wouldn’t step into dog poop. Was Naples like this on our first visit??! I swear I don’t remember it being like this! Admittedly, we were there at a super busy time of year - we hadn’t gotten the memo that Naples is a popular vacay destination for Italians for New Years, so it was absolutely PACKED and everywhere we went, there were throngs of pedestrians just clamoring to move through the streets. It was overwhelming. But even so - I couldn’t believe the poor sanitation. Also, the motorbike/scooter drivers in Naples are kind of assholes, and do not give a rat’s ass if you and your children are walking across the street, during a red light, when the pedestrian “walk” sign is on. They will try their very best to run you over intentionally. Lastly, this is a problem that is likely unique to New Years - but apparently there is ZERO fire code in the city of Naples, the firefighters are completely checked out and unbothered, and it is perfectly okay for any dipshit out there to buy industrial-grade fireworks and set them off absolutely anywhere they want. Like giant, EPCOT-9pm-Fireworks-Show-sized rockets in the middle of a street, with mopeds zipping by, cars parked on the curb and sidewalks full of pedestrians?! Totally okay! Those same gigantor rockets off the rooftops of buildings, while people have their babies in arms on the balconies below, and are then suddenly showered with a billion hot sparks?! GO for it! Jesus Christ. We watched it all in simultaneous amazement and teeth-gritting anxiety, from behind the thick glass windows of our Airbnb balcony. Anyway…. in sum, I’m so sorry to be critical, but OMG - Naples, you are so beautiful, and such an important city from a historical standpoint. Please — do better!!! I felt like Miami Beach and the New Orleans French Quarter had mated and had a little drunken Italian baby who keeps shitting his pants 😂. Man…I lived in rural India for a year and had actual cows shitting on the roads I walked, and weird dudes who would collect all manner of garbage like car batteries and used tires, and build literal bonfires out of them to dispose! - and I didn’t feel so disgusting and endangered walking through the streets.

But despite the filth - we had a good time. Naples is, to me, an absolute essential destination for any student of history, and particularly for Latin/ancient Roman civ geeks of all ages… because Naples is home to one of my favorite museums of all time, the Museo Archaeologico Nazionale di Napoli. At this museum, you find some of the most intact, phenomenal artifacts recovered from archaeological sites like Pompeii and Herculaneum. So awesome! A few hours in this gorgeous, peaceful, and well-curated museum is totally worth a few days of wandering through streets full of dog dookie. Another cool thing we did - we turned the Galleria Borbonica, or Bourbon tunnels, that run underground throughout the city - these tunnels have been important at various historical points over the centuries, first as an escape route for the Bourbon kings of Naples in the 17th century, then later as bomb shelters and makeshift hospitals and vehicle storage areas during the World Wars. Also, Naples claims to be the birthplace of pizza, and so they take great pride in their pizza creations - and with good reason, bc they were amazing.

Naples is also an essential destination because it’s a great jumping-off point for a day trip to Pompeii and Herculaneum! I was crazy excited to take the kids to these cities. And more so because while Dr. Spouse and I had visited Pompeii before, it was our first time in Herculaneum - and it did not disappoint!! This was a long day for us all, with Whip-Cracking Mommy (i.e. yours truly) barking everyone awake before sunrise to catch an 8:30 am train to Pompeii, and having a midday hourlong train ride between Pompeii and Herculaneum — but the entire family was gracious, patient and supportive of Whip-Cracking Mommy, and indulged me.

All too soon, we were on a train back to Rome for a short overnight stay at an airport hotel, so we could catch our return flights to the U.S. Precisely ZERO members of our family were happy to be going home - every single one of us was depressed and groaning. I think the sensory and gustatory escape that Italy had provided, the fascinating history we got to learn, and also the mental/emotional escape it gave us from a bleak few months prior - all were factors. I also think that awareness of the upcoming presidential inauguration of the returning Dumbfuck In Chief did not add a single iota of joy to the equation. But oh well. It was time to go home.

But in our family, getting there and back is part of the fun. So there was one good set of surprises left for the kids. We hadn’t disclosed to the boys what airlines (plural!) we’d be flying on this trip. So both the inbound and outbound airlines, as well as our Venice-Rome flight, were kept as special surprises for them.

Our journey from Miami to Venice was aboard Swiss Air! Vev was so excited. He lives for adding more airlines to his roster.

Then, in and around Italy, we had flights on ITA Airways (formerly Alitalia) - another thrill. We also got to take Trenitalia, the vaporeti (water busses) in Italy, a gondola, the local Metro (subway system) in Naples, and local commuter rail lines to/from Pompeii and Herculaneum. Both kids also did some plane-spotting in our layover city of Zurich, in Venice, and in Rome, enjoying the opportunity to see airlines that they don’t ordinarily have chance to see, like some specialty European and Asian airlines. Car enthusiast Dey enjoyed seeing lots of Italian vehicles on the road, such as vintage Vespas and Fiats. We had fun with all manner of transit!

Dr. Spouse and I were most excited for Vev to experience the final surprise of the trip: our return flights to Miami on Lufthansa, which for whatever reason has been in the upper aeschalon of airlines he’s always wanted to fly. Not only that — I had gone out of my way to ensure that on OUR specific day of travel, that Lufthansa would be operating their Boeing 747-8, one of the only airlines in the world still flying a 747 for long-haul passenger flights. I had known for years that Lufthansa flies a 747 into Miami - often, my commute home from Uuuu! while teaching would entail me traveling north on the 826 Palmetto Expressway at the exact moment when that 747 would be making its final approach into MIA. So I’d seen it with my own eyes, countless times, and had filed it in my mind as #goals for down the line…. Well then, in recent times, Vev had frequently expressed that he hoped that before all 747’s were decommissioned, he’d get a chance to fly in one. I always found this both poignant and hilarious, because I spent much of my childhood flying back and forth to/from India for summer vacations, and I took them completely for granted. But knowing my aviation-obsessed child had this wish, and knowing we had to fly home from Europe one way or another — I worked hard to make some magic happen with this.

It was worth it. He was SOOO pumped for this. It made coming home that much less painful.

He also did a great job snagging a number of souvenirs from this flight, including a variety of airplane pillows/blankets, silverware from the in-flight meal, and so on 😂 I was amused.

Anyway! We landed in Miami on Thursday, January 2nd, which gave us a few days of decompression time before the kids started school on Monday the 6th. It also gave us time to reunite with Ajima, Thatha, and our feline family members, Pixel and Kali, who had been in their care during our absence.

Overall, our winter break was PHENOMENAL and will go down in the books as a memorable family vacation!

[satgurutravelae]

Top 10 European Destinations for Travelers from Dubai

Embark on a journey to Europe, where every country offers a unique blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re craving an adventure or a relaxing escape, these top destinations ensure an unforgettable trip. If you’re searching for Europe holiday packages from Dubai, this guide is tailored for you.

1. Switzerland: A Wonderland of Scenic Beauty

Switzerland’s breathtaking landscapes make it a favorite for nature enthusiasts. From snow-capped peaks to tranquil lakes, this country is a dream for both adventure and leisure travelers. Perfect for year-round visits, it’s a slice of heaven on Earth.

Must-Do Activities:

Ride the Glacier Express for stunning Alpine views.

Take a serene boat trip on Lake Lucerne.

Explore the charming streets of Interlaken.

2. Greece: Mythology Meets Modern Charm

Greece effortlessly combines ancient wonders with stunning island escapes. From exploring Athens’ historical sites to basking in the beauty of Santorini’s sunsets, Greece is a top pick for Dubai travelers.

Must-Do Activities:

Discover the Parthenon and Acropolis in Athens.

Unwind on the beaches of Mykonos.

Sail through the crystal-clear waters of the Cyclades.

3. Italy: A Culinary and Cultural Haven

Italy is a haven for lovers of art, history, and exceptional cuisine. Experience Rome’s iconic landmarks, the romance of Venice, or the coastal charm of the Amalfi Coast—Italy’s magic is irresistible.

Must-Do Activities:

Relish authentic pizza in Naples.

Tour the Vatican City and Sistine Chapel.

Cruise along the Amalfi Coast for breathtaking views.

4. Austria: Elegance in Every Corner

Austria’s majestic landscapes and rich cultural heritage make it a must-visit destination. From Vienna’s classical concerts to the natural beauty of the Alps, Austria has something for everyone.

Must-Do Activities:

Attend a concert at Vienna’s Musikverein.

Hike or ski in the Tyrolean Alps.

Visit the picturesque village of Hallstatt.

5. Spain: A Feast for the Senses

Spain offers a vibrant mix of lively cities, pristine beaches, and historical landmarks. Whether exploring Barcelona’s architectural wonders or enjoying flamenco in Seville, Spain ensures a sensory delight.

Must-Do Activities:

Marvel at the works of Gaudí in Barcelona.

Relax on the beaches of Costa del Sol.

Explore the medieval streets of Toledo.

6. France: Timeless Romance and Sophistication

France continues to enchant with its timeless appeal. From Paris’ romantic streets to Provence’s lavender fields and the glamour of the French Riviera, it’s a destination to savor.

Must-Do Activities:

Capture the Eiffel Tower’s magic in Paris.

Savor wine in Bordeaux’s vineyards.

Stroll through the charming streets of Montmartre.

7. Netherlands: Tulips, Canals, and Culture

The Netherlands charms with its unique blend of vibrant city life and serene countryside. Amsterdam’s artistic treasures and the iconic tulip fields make it an unmissable destination.

Must-Do Activities:

Cycle through Amsterdam’s scenic streets.

Visit the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House.

Explore the Keukenhof Gardens in spring.

8. Germany: Tradition Meets Innovation

Germany’s diverse offerings range from historic castles to cutting-edge cities. Whether you’re exploring Berlin’s vibrant culture or Bavaria’s fairy-tale landscapes, Germany promises unforgettable experiences.

Must-Do Activities:

Tour Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria.

Dive into Berlin’s eclectic art scene.

Enjoy Oktoberfest festivities in Munich.

9. Czech Republic: Europe’s Hidden Treasure

The Czech Republic’s blend of gothic charm and modern vibrancy makes it an underrated gem. With Prague’s enchanting architecture and picturesque countryside, it’s perfect for travelers seeking something unique.

Must-Do Activities:

Wander through Prague’s Old Town Square.

Visit the medieval Karlštejn Castle.

Sample traditional Czech cuisine and beer.

10. United Kingdom: A Fusion of Heritage and Modernity

The UK’s iconic landmarks and stunning countryside attract travelers year-round. From London’s bustling streets to Scotland’s rugged beauty, the UK offers a diverse travel experience.

Must-Do Activities:

Tour Buckingham Palace in London.

Explore the Scottish Highlands.

Discover ancient Roman baths in Bath.

Your European Adventure Awaits

Europe’s allure lies in its diversity, offering endless possibilities for exploration and relaxation. With these Europe holiday packages from Dubai, you can curate a trip that matches your preferences and dreams. Start planning today and create memories to cherish forever!

[mikescoastalexpeditions]

Clear Kayaks Coastal Tours in Naples

Naples, Florida, offers an incredible coastal landscape that beckons adventurers from across the globe. Its crystal-clear waters, thriving marine life, and vibrant mangroves make it an ideal destination for kayaking enthusiasts. Recently, clear kayak tours have become one of the most exciting ways to explore this beautiful environment, giving you a window into the underwater world as you paddle along. With clear kayak rentals from local providers like Mike’s Coastal Expeditions, you can immerse yourself in this unique experience.

Why Choose Clear Kayak Tours?

Clear kayak tours offer a distinct advantage over traditional kayaking. The transparent design of the kayak allows you to see everything beneath the surface, creating a magical connection with the water and marine life. As you glide through Naples’ serene waters, you can spot fish, sea turtles, manatees, and even dolphins swimming directly below you. The clear kayaks are made from durable polycarbonate materials, ensuring both visibility and safety as you navigate the waters.

This immersive experience is perfect for nature lovers, families, and anyone looking to explore the ocean in a new and exciting way. It also offers a unique opportunity for photographers, as the clear kayak acts as both a vehicle and a lens, allowing for stunning underwater shots without the need for a snorkel or diving gear.

Explore Naples’ Coastal Beauty

Naples is renowned for its diverse waterways, and clear kayak tours offer the perfect way to explore them. Here are some must-visit destinations where clear kayaks offer the best views:

Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve: This protected reserve is home to a thriving ecosystem of mangroves, fish, and birds. Paddling through the calm waters in a clear kayak gives you a unique perspective of the interconnectedness of these habitats. You can witness schools of fish weaving through the mangrove roots, and if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a manatee gliding beneath your kayak.

Clam Pass Park: Known for its scenic beauty, Clam Pass Park offers a mixture of beach, bay, and mangrove environments. The gentle waters and rich marine life make this an ideal location for clear kayak tours. The transparent kayaks allow you to see the gentle ripples of fish just below the surface, adding an extra layer of wonder to your paddle.

Gordon River: For those looking for a more relaxed experience, the Gordon River offers peaceful paddling with the added benefit of spotting a variety of wildlife. The river’s calm flow is perfect for clear kayaks, allowing you to enjoy a leisurely tour while observing the aquatic life below.

Estero Bay: Located just north of Naples, Estero Bay is a vibrant body of water where you can paddle through mangroves, estuaries, and coastal areas. Clear kayak rentals here allow you to explore one of Florida's first aquatic preserves, where dolphins and manatees are frequent visitors.

Mike’s Coastal Expeditions: Your Gateway to Clear Kayak Adventures

If you’re looking to rent a clear kayak and embark on a guided tour, Mike’s Coastal Expeditions offers some of the best options in Naples. Known for their top-quality equipment and knowledgeable guides, Mike’s Coastal Expeditions specializes in creating memorable kayaking experiences. They offer both clear kayak rentals and guided clear kayak tours, ensuring that paddlers of all skill levels can enjoy the beauty of Naples' waterways.

One of the key benefits of booking with Mike’s Coastal Expeditions is their expertise in the local environment. Their guides know the best routes for spotting wildlife, understanding tidal flows, and offering insights into the area’s ecology. Whether you're navigating the peaceful mangrove tunnels or exploring the open waters, their staff ensures a safe and enjoyable experience.

Their clear kayak rentals also come equipped with all the necessary safety gear, including life jackets and paddles, so you can focus on the adventure ahead. Additionally, their transparent kayaks are regularly inspected to ensure they provide optimal visibility and comfort during your trip.

Tips for a Perfect Clear Kayak Tour

Here are a few tips to ensure you make the most of your clear kayak adventure:

Book in Advance: Clear kayak tours are increasingly popular, so booking your rental or tour with Mike’s Coastal Expeditions ahead of time ensures you get the dates and times you want.

Time Your Paddle: Early morning or late afternoon tours often offer the best visibility. The water is typically calmer during these times, and you’re more likely to see marine life.

Bring a Camera: The transparent kayak offers unparalleled photo opportunities, so don’t forget to bring a waterproof camera or phone in a protective case to capture the beauty beneath the surface.

Stay Hydrated and Protected: The Florida sun can be intense, so make sure to bring plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and consider wearing a hat and sunglasses for added protection.

Conclusion

Exploring the coastal beauty of Naples through clear kayak tours provides a unique and mesmerizing experience that connects you with the water like never before. With clear kayak rentals and tours offered by Mike’s Coastal Expeditions, you can discover Naples’ stunning underwater world while enjoying the serene, natural environment that Southwest Florida is known for. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or new to kayaking, clear kayaks provide an unforgettable adventure, making your journey through Naples’ coastal waters truly exceptional.

[gulfbreezecharters]

Set sail on an unforgettable Naples Tour Cruise with Gulf Breeze Charters

Set sail on an unforgettable Naples Tour Cruise with Gulf Breeze Charters and explore the stunning beauty of Naples from the water. Our guided tours take you through scenic coastlines, exclusive waterfront estates, and abundant wildlife, providing a unique perspective of this vibrant Florida destination. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or an exciting adventure, our Naples Tour Cruise offers a memorable experience for all. Reserve your spot today and enjoy exceptional service aboard our comfortable, well-equipped boats. Visit napleswatershuttle.com to learn more and book your tour!

Related Links -

Naples Tour Of Homes

Naples Tour Of Homes Cruise

Private Boat Charter In Naples

Private Charter Cruise Naples

[alex-johnson1]

Naples Tours: Discover the Charm of Italy's Historic Coastal Gem

Nestled on the southwest coast of Italy, Naples is a city filled with history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its rich heritage, stunning coastline, and proximity to famous landmarks like Mount Vesuvius and the Amalfi Coast, Naples is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or simply in search of breathtaking views, Naples tours offer something for everyone. Let’s explore the best ways to experience this vibrant city and the stunning Gulf of Naples.

1. Historical Tours: A Walk Through Ancient Naples

Naples is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history that dates back over 2,800 years. A historical tour of Naples is an essential way to experience the city’s rich past. From the well-preserved ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum to the grand architecture of the Royal Palace, the city is brimming with historic sites. A visit to the National Archaeological Museum is also a highlight, where you can see ancient Roman artifacts, including many from Pompeii, offering a glimpse into daily life during the Roman Empire. These tours provide an in-depth understanding of Naples’ importance throughout history and its role in shaping Italian culture.

2. Gulf of Naples Cruises: Explore the Coastal Beauty

One of the most breathtaking ways to experience Naples is by taking a cruise around the Gulf of Naples. This stunning bay is surrounded by the picturesque island of Capri, the rugged cliffs of the Sorrentine Peninsula, and the majestic silhouette of Mount Vesuvius. A boat tour allows you to explore the beauty of the Gulf of Naples from a unique perspective, with views of sparkling blue waters, charming seaside villages, and dramatic coastlines. Many tours also include stops at the islands of Capri and Ischia, where you can explore their famous beaches, lush gardens, and historical landmarks. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely sail or a more active boat trip, cruising the Gulf of Naples is an unforgettable experience.

3. Vesuvius Tours: Conquer the Volcano

No visit to Naples would be complete without seeing Mount Vesuvius, the infamous volcano that erupted in AD 79, destroying the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. A Vesuvius tour takes you to the summit of the volcano, where you can hike along the crater’s edge and take in panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Gulf of Naples below. For those interested in geology or history, a guide can share fascinating insights into the eruption and the ongoing activity of the volcano. The dramatic views and the feeling of standing on an active volcano make this tour a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

4. Food Tours: Savor the Flavors of Naples

Naples is often hailed as the birthplace of pizza, and a food tour is one of the best ways to experience the city’s culinary traditions. A Naples food tour will take you to the best pizzerias, where you can try the world-famous Neapolitan pizza, with its thin, crispy crust and fresh ingredients. Beyond pizza, Naples is known for its seafood, pastries, and espresso. A guided food tour will introduce you to local delicacies such as sfogliatella, a sweet pastry filled with ricotta, and seafood dishes like spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams). As you stroll through the bustling streets of the historic center, your guide will provide insight into Naples’ food culture and the importance of these dishes in the city’s daily life.

5. Amalfi Coast and Pompeii Day Trips: Explore the Surrounding Wonders

While Naples is a treasure trove of historical and cultural sites, its location makes it the perfect base for exploring the nearby Amalfi Coast and Pompeii. A day trip from Naples to Pompeii will transport you back in time as you walk through the remarkably preserved streets of this ancient Roman city, buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. The Amalfi Coast, with its dramatic cliffs, colorful towns, and crystal-clear waters, is another must-visit destination. Whether you’re visiting the charming town of Positano or relaxing on the beaches of Ravello, the Amalfi Coast is a breathtaking region that is easily accessible from Naples.

6. Naples Walking Tours: Discover the Heart of the City

One of the best ways to explore Naples is on foot, allowing you to discover the city’s lively streets, historic squares, and hidden gems. A walking tour of Naples will take you through the vibrant Spaccanapoli, the narrow street that runs through the heart of the historic center, lined with shops, churches, and eateries. You'll also have the chance to visit landmarks like the Naples Cathedral, the Royal Palace, and the beautiful Piazza del Plebiscito. As you wander through the bustling streets, you’ll get a sense of the city’s lively atmosphere and rich cultural heritage.

Conclusion

From the historic ruins of Pompeii to the stunning vistas of the Gulf of Naples, this coastal city has something for everyone. Whether you're sailing on the crystal-clear waters of the gulf, exploring ancient sites, or indulging in delicious local cuisine, Naples tours offer a perfect blend of adventure, history, and culture. With so much to see and do, Naples is an ideal destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Italy. Don’t miss the chance to explore this vibrant city and its breathtaking surroundings on your next trip to Italy!

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Naples Florida | In Depth City Tour

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UNITED STATES

WATERFRONT - EVERYWHERE NEXT

2 - WATER - BUSINESS - HOUSES ETC

SMALL - POPULATION

OVER - 19,000 - PEOPLE

MAJORITY - WHITE - AMERICANS

FR - ORIGINALS - 1777 - 18TH CENTURY

L SIDE - GULF - OF - MEXICO

SOUTHWEST - FLORIDA

SW FL

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THE - PEOPLE - THE - WEATHER

OVER - 400,000 - PEOPLE

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PEOPLE

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HIGHEST 

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DADDY ...

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OVER - 25 MILLION - YEARS

INDEPENDENT - ISLAND NATION

RED COACH

LIKE - YOUR - BUS - HOTEL BUT

ONLY - 2 HOURS

WALT DISNEY - ‘MOVING FORWARD’

JESUS CHRIST - IS - LORD

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[kayakingtours]

Eco-friendly Kayaking in Naples: Ways You Can Help the Environment

Naples, Florida's pristine waterways, mangroves, and ecologies nourish an ecologically rich fauna. While kayaking gives you these exceptional wonders to see, it helps reduce the environmental footprint during travel. Adopt these eco-friendly practices as part of your effort to help in conserving this beautiful ecosystem for future generations. Here's how to make serious environmental responsibility and fun out of your kayaking adventure in Naples.

The First Step Is Sustainable Equipment

First and foremost, eco-kayaking begins with the acquisition of as many eco-kayaks equipment as possible: from one of the kayak rental companies in Naples, like Mike's Coastal Expeditions. It's got a lightweight, durable construction, made entirely of recycled materials, which is very eco-conscious. Go for these options to lessen your impact on the environment. You can also carry with you biodegradable sunscreen and reusable water bottles to further eliminate waste and leakage of dangerous contaminants into the water.

Respect the Animals

The waters of Naples host many species, from playful dolphins to elegant herons. While you kayak, keep a healthy distance from the animals to allow them to continue with their usual behavior. Avoid disturbing animals from their normal diets through feeding as it also creates dependence on humans. Rather, watch from afar and snap photos.

Stay in Designated Areas

When you kayak within assigned boundaries, it ensures that you do not harm these fragile ecosystems. Stay to marked trails and do not go into areas that are prohibited. Many waterways in Naples, such as the mangroves and estuarine systems, serve as important breeding habitats for species in the marine life. By not venturing into these unauthorized areas, you help to protect them and reduce the chances of inadvertently damaging them.

Minimize Pollution

Litter is one of the primary dangers to Naples' waterways. Ensure that all waste you have isn't disposed of near the water and take them back to shore for proper disposal. Joining kayak cleaning events are also good means for doing social justice to the environment. These events usually include paddling around on the waterways collecting debris that helps keep the environment clean and active. Clean-ups like these are usually organized by Mike's Coastal Expeditions, making it easier for participants to give.

Use Eco-Friendly Tours

Eco-kayaking tours are a great experience of touching the environment while getting to know all about the beautiful sites of Naples. Mike's Coastal Expeditions and other such agencies really emphasize on less environmental disruption by also creating awareness to participants on conservation. Highlighted within the importance of mangroves, seagrass beds, and other important habitat types are touches informed by this eco-tourism.

Exercise Non-Mechanized Travel

The most significant part of kayaking is its ecological impact. The kayak doesn't produce emissions or noise, or wake like a motorboat, which makes it one of the best ways for the adventurer who wants to have as little impact on the earth as possible. By choosing paddle- or pedal-powered kayaks, you maintain much of the waterway in its complementary state and lower your carbon footprint. Mike's Coastal Expeditions is a non-motorized kayak option provider and has ensured provision for making an eco-friendly experience.

Be an Educator

The practice of kayaking is connected with the ecosystem. Get some information about the marine life around Naples, the common vegetation, and the environmental challenges before you get on the water. One important aspect is sharing what you know with fellow kayakers to spread awareness on these eco-friendly practices. Such things will make a difference when budgets are pooled together in an organization.

Help Conservation Initiatives

Consider giving money or time toward an organization that protects natural resources in Naples. Many of these focus on things like restoring mangroves, cleaning beaches, or rescuing wildlife. Supporting any of these causes means putting a shovel in your hands to benefit the health of the ecosystem. Mike's Coastal Expeditions usually partners with a local conservation project and offers its participants an opportunity to get involved.

Do Not Use Harmful Substances

When taking on your kayak trip, all things should be environment friendly. From single-use plastic protection to reef-safe sunscreen, chemicals should never touch the marine life. All those very easy adjustments make a good environmental improvement.

Leave No Trace

The Leave No Trace principle is a fundamental approach to eco-friendly outdoor activities. It states that natural spaces should always be left as they were found, or even better. It advises against picking any plants and disturbing wildlife or leaving any traces of your presence there. Under this principle, you help to preserve the beauty and integrity of Naples' waterways.

Conclusion

It is a wonderful experience to kayak in Naples, an environment-friendly natural enjoyment. Through sustainable practices, respecting wildlife, and donations to conservation initiatives, you make a positive difference. Whether you are gliding across glistening waters or paddling through mangroves, your commitment allows eco-conscious kayaking to help preserve the site for the enjoyment of future generations. Mike's Coastal Expeditions is always ready to assist in making such journeys more enjoyable by offering tours and facilities for eco-friendly experiences.