Ode

This lovely little building in Porto houses one of my favorite memories of Portugal. Ode Porto Wine House is a gem among the many memorable places Porto offers their visitors. The proprietor, Cristovao welcomes guests by saying "I want you to treat this place as if it was your home" and he isn't kidding. In fact, if I were to own a home, I would have exposed beams, rustic charm and the same glorious wine storage. So, it wasn't hard for me to sit back and relax in this wonderful "home".

The stone, the wood, the orange...I fell in decor love!

The kitchen was open so you could see the fresh ingredients and interact with the chef. Guests are encouraged to send back food if it is not exactly what you want. However, I find this hard to imagine since every dish looks amazing and prepared with care. I ordered tiger prawns on top of smashed peas and to this day, I can't stop dreaming about those peas.

My dream wine storage!

Cristovao, Ode's gracious host

I wish I had more time so I could have visited one more time before leaving. Until next time, Cheers to Ode!!!

Budapest

I noticed that I forgot to write about my short trip to Budapest. Once I returned home, life when full speed ahead and writing was put to the side. I was only in Budapest for 2 days. I arrived on Saturday January 15th after my flight from Milan was cancelled and I had to negotiate my way to Hungary. I had to prove that I was leaving Europe from Budapest to return to the USA and that seemed to give me some pull with the airline.

Once I arrived, I wasn't surprised, but annoyed that they lost my luggage. It is actually very funny because my luggage was lost when I returned from Paris in 2006 and since then, I have NEVER checked my bags. However, the airline I flew to Budapest with did not allow carry on roller bags, so I had to check it. I gave the airline my friend's address and hopped in a cab with them to go explore the city nightlife.

I have been friends with Roncarlo since 2004. We were investment bankers together in San Diego. We used to tell people we were twins...see the resemblance? Anyway this guy is like a brother to me and I was thrilled to meet his girlfriend and see his life in Hungary!

They are so cute together and great hosts too!

We started at their place where they opened up a couple bottles of Hungarian wine and Gabi made a traditional dish that was perfect and delicious. It was great to see Ron with Gabi. I remember when he met her and was falling in love with her. I knew he would move over there for her and here we were 2 years later; and he is so happy :)! Anyway, we spent time catching up and getting ready to go out. Gabi is training to be a makeup artist, so she did my makeup. Then, we went out for drinks, dancing and Hungarian karaoke! Good times!

The next day, Ron and Gabi were my tour guides around the city. I really enjoyed listening to Gabi talk about her country's history. She is very knowledgeable. The city is quite lovely and rich in history. We went to a beautiful cafe for a late lunch before heading out to view the city at night with the lights. It was a perfect way to see the city.

Then as all trips do, this one ended. I had to leave early the next morning to head back home. Leaving is always bittersweet. I love to come home, but travel is in my blood.

Milano

After my Duomo adventure, I walked around the city for hours. Milan is famous for fashion and shopping and I guess this is Mecca for those who adore them. I enjoyed people watching here. It was interesting to see so many different people and hear so many different languages in such a small area.

Then, I stumbled upon Leonardo da Vinci. This statue portrays all aspects of his genius.

 This was my favorite street.The lanterns above gradually changed colors. To my surprise, the Sforza Castle was at the end of the road. The history nerd in me was jumping for joy. In fact, once I was in front of it, I started taking pictures like crazy and a little Italian man offered to take my picture in front. Then, he offered a tour of "his " city. We spent an hour walking around as he pointed things out. The language barrier didn't seem to matter. A lot of hand motions and repeating ourselves. I really don't think Italy could be more charming.

My day ended with Mushroom Risotto, Pizza with artichoke, mushroom and prociutto, and vino!

Duomo

I spent a magical day in the city of Milano, Sunday. The weather was dreary, but my spirits were soaring when I emerged from the Metro to find the Duomo right in front of me. I immediatly headed over to see how I could get to the top. Of course, the inside is magnificent and somber. The stained glass was very intricate and the the entire place was ornate. I spent time walking around and standing in architectural awe!

 I found my way to the top and was greeted by "slipperies" as the sign stated and gargoyles. If it wasn't so cold, I probably could have spent a few hours exploring the roof. It was truly an unforgettable experience.

I loved the gothic architechture.