tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57959786205394998042024-03-22T16:41:19.057-06:00Art Verve Excursions The Art Verve Excursions program facilitates instructor-led art workshops in sketching, drawing or painting abroad with tours of museums or surrounding architecture. This allows participants the opportunity to learn, create or cultivate the visual arts outside the classroom or during vacation.Art Verve Academyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15434252256394058640noreply@blogger.comBlogger15125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795978620539499804.post-39571773046894035282017-09-08T10:15:00.014-06:002023-11-22T21:03:57.274-07:00Shopping for Food in Tuscany<p>Shopping for food in Tuscany is a beautiful experience. You can purchase food from the local market. It's fresh, and the vegetables taste amazing!</p>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh produce in the marketplace</td></tr>
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<p>Or at the local coop. If you need a cart, make sure you have some change to unlock it from the rest of the carts. Also, be sure to put gloves on when handling the produce. It's a cultural thing. If you don't, you will get the stink eye! LOL!</p>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com50026 San Casciano in Val di Pesa, Metropolitan City of Florence, Italy43.6420954 11.184388719.47172447450999 -23.9718613 67.812466325490021 46.3406387tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795978620539499804.post-31707345898722672992017-09-06T09:51:00.040-06:002023-11-22T22:51:16.351-07:00Thing to do and see in Florence!<p>In just a walk through the streets, you will see old water fountains or may cross over the famous <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ponte_Vecchio" target="_blank">Ponte Vecchio bridge</a>.
</p><center><div class="separator"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYQB9DUIUXjEGiV7adzpL9DgBMdH1bFKGaAvjlETBB9WBA1BoPdypOVJrNfZzBfbfJ03oYke3EjspNXXDnxzcyvgXrWWAPBMShFHc_uNH3s4TRWJz5m6aeUesGaKELD5_QrQQ8QCRi5Go/s1600/Florence.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="75%"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYQB9DUIUXjEGiV7adzpL9DgBMdH1bFKGaAvjlETBB9WBA1BoPdypOVJrNfZzBfbfJ03oYke3EjspNXXDnxzcyvgXrWWAPBMShFHc_uNH3s4TRWJz5m6aeUesGaKELD5_QrQQ8QCRi5Go/w320-h304/Florence.JPG" style="border: 1px solid rgb(68, 49, 152); margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="100%" /></a></div></center>
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<p>Florence, is home to some of the world's most recognizable Renaissance art and architecture. You can also see <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Florence_Cathedral" target="_blank">Brunelleschi's famous dome</a> on the Duomo Basilica and the Florence Cathedral.</p>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUBn-T-Dyba7sSIHDvqz138lTg1rzPsChBHsoB4DzotaNGtu-MVSBovhIJyYsB_nQCBaBPCI7yquqQt4LWuiHl6f8Bubm8xku2GrubjzVuP9D4janVdf2zEe1Av177KqqbEdvF9Jdl5bk/s1600/2017-Connections-Essence-of-Italy-1024x460.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUBn-T-Dyba7sSIHDvqz138lTg1rzPsChBHsoB4DzotaNGtu-MVSBovhIJyYsB_nQCBaBPCI7yquqQt4LWuiHl6f8Bubm8xku2GrubjzVuP9D4janVdf2zEe1Av177KqqbEdvF9Jdl5bk/w640-h288/2017-Connections-Essence-of-Italy-1024x460.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Duomo basilica</td></tr>
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<p>The <a href="http://www.uffizi.it/index.php?it/171/gli-uffizi" target="_blank">Uffizi Gallery</a> occupies the first and second floors of the famous large office ('uffizzi' in Italian) building built between 1560 and 1580 from Giorgio Vasari's design. It is one of the most famous museums in the world, well known for its extraordinary collections of ancient sculptures and paintings (from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance). </p>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Botticelli's "The Birth of Venus"</td></tr>
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<p>The <a href="https://www.uffizi.it/en/the-uffizi" target="_blank">Uffizi Gallery</a> houses some of the world's most favorite paintings, including "<a href="https://artsandculture.google.com/asset/the-birth-of-venus-sandro-botticelli/MQEeq50LABEBVg" target="_blank">Birth of Venus</a>" and "<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Primavera_%28Botticelli%29" target="_blank">Primavera</a>" by Botticelli. The collection contains some of the most famous masterpieces of all time, including works from Giotto, Simone Martini, Piero della Francesca, Beato Angelico, Filippo Lippi, Botticelli, Mantegna, Correggio, Leonardo, Raffaello, Michelangelo, Caravaggio, as well as the panorama of statues and busts from antiquity collected by the Medici family.</p>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4NIoSu37EAArCGewCXREjM_sZ849TqkNMtG5h9Ey6MKgEm-oJ2ao1__Kvc3hVrqxkCoKaKIOc97Z95lx1BC1HLMWvMYCk4d__udiRPwHIs144gQ8BjmslxQ6d1S_m5M55woH3z0nlHyQ/s1600/Michaelango_David.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4NIoSu37EAArCGewCXREjM_sZ849TqkNMtG5h9Ey6MKgEm-oJ2ao1__Kvc3hVrqxkCoKaKIOc97Z95lx1BC1HLMWvMYCk4d__udiRPwHIs144gQ8BjmslxQ6d1S_m5M55woH3z0nlHyQ/w264-h640/Michaelango_David.jpg" width="264" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Michelangelo’s "David"</td></tr>
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<p>In the town square, you will see the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palazzo_Vecchio" target="_blank">Palazzo Vecchio</a> surrounded by beautifully sculpted statues, including a replica of Michalengo's David.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.uffizi.it/index.php?it/269/galleria-palatina-e-galleria-darte-moderna" target="_blank">The Galleria D'Art Moderna</a>, or 'Modern Art Gallery', is a must-see and is located on the second floor of the Pitti Palace. These elegant rooms were inhabited by the Lorraine grand dukes and were decorated with Italian paintings and sculptures dating from the late 18th century to World War I, including the neo-classical and romantic periods.</p><h3 class="page-title">Walking Maps</h3><div><p><a href="http://www.visitflorence.com/tourist-info/driving-in-florence-ztl-zone.html" target="_blank">Florence</a> maps for walking around the city.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comFlorence, Metropolitan City of Florence, Italy43.7695604 11.255813615.459326563821158 -23.9004364 72.079794236178856 46.412063599999996tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795978620539499804.post-73716433716182000802017-08-18T00:35:00.039-06:002023-11-22T22:24:50.802-07:00The Lovely Renaissance Manor<p>We will be renting a villa in the countryside right outside of Florence! <a href="https://www.casavecchiavillas.com/" target="_blank">Casavecchia</a>, the lovely Renaissance manor is set within a forty-acre estate of vineyards and olive groves. </p>
<p>Minutes from the wine center of <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/50026+San+Casciano+In+Val+di+Pesa,+Metropolitan+City+of+Florence,+Italy/@43.6578618,11.1791012,15z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m13!1m7!3m6!1s0x132a56a680d2d6ad:0x93d57917efc72a03!2sFlorence,+Metropolitan+City+of+Florence,+Italy!3b1!8m2!3d43.7695604!4d11.2558136!3m4!1s0x132a4f0ac84dd441:0xaf107d3ff75c6517!8m2!3d43.6583717!4d11.1888027" target="_blank">San Casciano in Val di Pesa</a>. The villa overlooks olive & grape farms as well as cultivated fields that cover the hilly countryside between Florence and Sienna.</p>
<center><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgao-YlDp6evp4vLWzKzyvnWK8QCth9C_LZGOeI3j6mvLn8ud7wVQhjQW-_VWjDDfxZn-d5nRMH7rn1JjDaX0NrhiScxKRfMfp4BE8It8W_a4E69OqR7qeTWbYv5R1xdXRmd2OXlIq6ZMA/s1600/Casa+Vecchia.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img height="485" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgao-YlDp6evp4vLWzKzyvnWK8QCth9C_LZGOeI3j6mvLn8ud7wVQhjQW-_VWjDDfxZn-d5nRMH7rn1JjDaX0NrhiScxKRfMfp4BE8It8W_a4E69OqR7qeTWbYv5R1xdXRmd2OXlIq6ZMA/w640-h485/Casa+Vecchia.JPG" style="border: 1px solid rgb(68, 49, 152); margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><center>Casavecchia Villa</center></td></tr></tbody></table></center>
<p>The villa is large, fully furnished, and contains spacious rooms with a living room, sitting room, dining room, entrance hall & kitchen with utensils, pots, pans & dishes. There is also a patio, private swimming pool, 17<sup>th</sup>-century gardens, and a spectacular view of the Tuscan hills.</p>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1flEmndnW0-2YoLW0jJ8cMOSJ8myUjftciRFNfXLrCGGDeYB4nrb1XtKRLLnHurpa9ZTS6z1c4QPqEk5EmRVME7KFeuJW09ZXVmyMPJYIqobqevjDmGRlNgbarAw7FM6OcCNf3fXiC1E/s1600/IMG_4372.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1flEmndnW0-2YoLW0jJ8cMOSJ8myUjftciRFNfXLrCGGDeYB4nrb1XtKRLLnHurpa9ZTS6z1c4QPqEk5EmRVME7KFeuJW09ZXVmyMPJYIqobqevjDmGRlNgbarAw7FM6OcCNf3fXiC1E/w640-h425/IMG_4372.JPG" style="border: 1px solid rgb(68, 49, 152); margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of the Tuscan Hills Next to the Villa</td></tr>
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<p>The dining room and two of the bedrooms open onto a charming walled garden with shady trees. An old wooden gate leads from the backyard to a swimming pool positioned on a grassed terrace with lovely views of the countryside.</p>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJq8KZT9Tmr1bDO4K7NXvy9L3K7cBRZs3KC2hxGHkSL3m-dIzO__WXv2Rp6f6R8P7aYTvEWOvnJbJg2NVYb06FigJ1fh2KofSgh-cSjzBfiHAUonWK1S3GATIgvT4uhPyrgsl_rvZU-Kc/s1600/IMG_4078.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJq8KZT9Tmr1bDO4K7NXvy9L3K7cBRZs3KC2hxGHkSL3m-dIzO__WXv2Rp6f6R8P7aYTvEWOvnJbJg2NVYb06FigJ1fh2KofSgh-cSjzBfiHAUonWK1S3GATIgvT4uhPyrgsl_rvZU-Kc/w640-h425/IMG_4078.JPG" style="border: 1px solid rgb(68, 49, 152); margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Private Swimming Pool</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<p>Traditional Tuscan features such as tiled floors and high ceilings were preserved during a restoration of the house and are complemented by lovely antique furnishings. Cooking enthusiasts will appreciate the modern kitchen, and rainy day options include wireless internet and satellite television. An inside view of the rooms is shown below.</p>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaUAegvu5BlhtC1ZrEwPNZUIoRNM96WBCgTzOIF8UK-u9mNKOPSbe-2WQp4Pi7lZfCgZ3DNGvRODhCNz_Iv87d_6fxEkegchlilrctRGeNA3QVOsJC9oPRosAmnm4yHaeyaPVlnSZblUo/s1600/Casavecchia-Double-w-Bath-1.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img height="481" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaUAegvu5BlhtC1ZrEwPNZUIoRNM96WBCgTzOIF8UK-u9mNKOPSbe-2WQp4Pi7lZfCgZ3DNGvRODhCNz_Iv87d_6fxEkegchlilrctRGeNA3QVOsJC9oPRosAmnm4yHaeyaPVlnSZblUo/w640-h481/Casavecchia-Double-w-Bath-1.JPG" style="border: 1px solid rgb(68, 49, 152); margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Double bed with private attached bath</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikZNjwPXme5GTHPMaYSl-XTzy1rbKYDxudJyxCuZX_j6koYC1ZpY5_gDogIQvyVnAJ_Dhvz-jFF3YgkPx32d8O-v_eXfv8V_2YjPBuCMXM1uNgHZmCy_KqGf9-WCmgUEAbQFCkV44QdZ4/s1600/Casavecchia-Double-w-Bath-3.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img height="477" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikZNjwPXme5GTHPMaYSl-XTzy1rbKYDxudJyxCuZX_j6koYC1ZpY5_gDogIQvyVnAJ_Dhvz-jFF3YgkPx32d8O-v_eXfv8V_2YjPBuCMXM1uNgHZmCy_KqGf9-WCmgUEAbQFCkV44QdZ4/w640-h477/Casavecchia-Double-w-Bath-3.JPG" style="border: 1px solid rgb(68, 49, 152); margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Double bed with private attached bath</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr_P5d4DXhHQ2P9upiVWJxzd30AizyNmB_A0vrgUSwoH2-i9pgCe1cfwIFHaFMxWSHrM-v68TFsM_coUHW5Ir1c1CZyYn8gW9J-Uvp1iCBgZXxOPKwm_E1fP4UvPZRAInLNMz4n9Vbeqs/s1600/Casavecchia-Double-w-Bath-4.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img height="423" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr_P5d4DXhHQ2P9upiVWJxzd30AizyNmB_A0vrgUSwoH2-i9pgCe1cfwIFHaFMxWSHrM-v68TFsM_coUHW5Ir1c1CZyYn8gW9J-Uvp1iCBgZXxOPKwm_E1fP4UvPZRAInLNMz4n9Vbeqs/w640-h423/Casavecchia-Double-w-Bath-4.JPG" style="border: 1px solid rgb(68, 49, 152); margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Double bed with private attached bath</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnYNkVExi1iIIG3f8nMpAqZ44FzgZEjHvUWzkvwDQvjxIvSEVjsDYvb82TR2g_3Qv2JMeOdkrFZS8kh_PWH10H5SrkMkOCiMLZOeyVwody7Q63WQLM_oGd4Vqqq1wLRhJxu711kIrB-9Y/s1600/Casavecchia-Single-w-enSuite-Bath-1.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img height="455" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnYNkVExi1iIIG3f8nMpAqZ44FzgZEjHvUWzkvwDQvjxIvSEVjsDYvb82TR2g_3Qv2JMeOdkrFZS8kh_PWH10H5SrkMkOCiMLZOeyVwody7Q63WQLM_oGd4Vqqq1wLRhJxu711kIrB-9Y/w640-h455/Casavecchia-Single-w-enSuite-Bath-1.JPG" style="border: 1px solid rgb(68, 49, 152); margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Twin beds with attached bath</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_irAGg__GV0eIKUxpZZpWdDRWhA0JYYXbauxCYuW2VCgUf18yPbQqdNKesbULuFI9jmujSsMRQylEtXA93ChbHJwxqM0LNzzeVRMSkVCSgJ_TZQsiofTUu6K0SyVyc-NGmEiviVRIm5k/s1600/Casavecchia-Single-w-enSuite-Bath-2.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img height="423" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_irAGg__GV0eIKUxpZZpWdDRWhA0JYYXbauxCYuW2VCgUf18yPbQqdNKesbULuFI9jmujSsMRQylEtXA93ChbHJwxqM0LNzzeVRMSkVCSgJ_TZQsiofTUu6K0SyVyc-NGmEiviVRIm5k/w640-h423/Casavecchia-Single-w-enSuite-Bath-2.JPG" style="border: 1px solid rgb(68, 49, 152); margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Twin beds with attached bath</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com50026 San Casciano in Val di Pesa, Metropolitan City of Florence, Italy43.6420954 11.184388715.331861563821157 -23.9718613 71.952329236178855 46.3406387tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795978620539499804.post-57635413201892175132017-06-03T09:38:00.048-06:002023-11-22T22:57:03.969-07:00Getting to Tuscany by Bus, Tram or Car<p>There are multiple ways to get to Tuscany. You may arrive by plane, train, or automobile.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">By Bus</h2>
<p>You will need a '<b>Biglietti</b>,' or ticket in Italian, before you get on the bus. The buses in Tuscany are really nice, and the seats are cozy. Another bonus is watching the beautiful Italian scenery drift by the window en route. </p>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8NvAW_Ligta4eVkzD4aX-nOoAvUnrn7oQqwzlsUPo0EDjytI0UMpPL9fHXEkCqGfIiwEFUgvF4M38OubqyBTPeBJKlzxKPtrAUax24gVqeR5SNoCPzESC2s708WyrbWd75Mbt115bNfY/s1600/21640765_1679503502074000_1880669622152549221_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8NvAW_Ligta4eVkzD4aX-nOoAvUnrn7oQqwzlsUPo0EDjytI0UMpPL9fHXEkCqGfIiwEFUgvF4M38OubqyBTPeBJKlzxKPtrAUax24gVqeR5SNoCPzESC2s708WyrbWd75Mbt115bNfY/w640-h360/21640765_1679503502074000_1880669622152549221_o.jpg" style="border: 1px solid rgb(68, 49, 152); margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Italian Bus</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<p>To travel on the tram of Florence, you must use Ataf and Linea travel titles. Both tickets can be purchased in the manner specified by Ataf and Linea and are valid within the limits of their duration. Tickets are unavailable onboard the tramway but can be purchased at each stop using the automatic ticket offices on every quay.</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.ataf.net/it/biglietti-e-abbonamenti/biglietti.aspx?idC=82&LN=it-IT">ATAF Buses</a></li>
<li>LINEA</li>
</ul>
<p style="text-align: left;">More information on taking the bus.</p><div><ul><li><a href="http://www.acvbus.it/orari/365.pdf?utm_source=chianti.com&utm_campaign=DiscoverTuscany&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=/moving-around-chianti/tips-getting-around-chianti.html" target="_blank">From Florence to Greve, Line 365 Schedule</a></li><li><a href="http://www.gestramvia.com/biglietti" target="_blank">Purchase bus tickets in Florence</a></li></ul></div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">No Car is Needed in Florence</h2><p>If you only plan on visiting <b>Florence</b>, a car will not be needed. If you wish to visit towns and villages beyond the most popular destinations of Florence, Pisa, and Siena, an automobile is almost necessary. The Chianti hills, the Val d'Orcia, Maremma, Casentino, and hilltop villages in these areas in Tuscany are practically impossible to visit depending solely on public transportation.</p>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCj6syxxKuqZNE-dZDp8NS6C2d1YsWCuTIdcp6DtEGUY8kTmQjmTZyc1M3x6XQWxvRZwSsJFMhS7Q629qmm17IFRr7Psm2Oh3pmSsRd2GlLDfyhKLGacGAI_bijzy2B4HCSQFM24vGvZE/s1600/IMG_5148.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCj6syxxKuqZNE-dZDp8NS6C2d1YsWCuTIdcp6DtEGUY8kTmQjmTZyc1M3x6XQWxvRZwSsJFMhS7Q629qmm17IFRr7Psm2Oh3pmSsRd2GlLDfyhKLGacGAI_bijzy2B4HCSQFM24vGvZE/w640-h425/IMG_5148.JPG" style="border: 1px solid rgb(68, 49, 152); margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The streets are Narrow in Florence.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">Tuscany By Car</h2><p>A <b>rental car</b> is an extremely useful and practical solution to visit Tuscany. It is practical because many car rental offices are in or near the main airports and train stations, so you can pick up your rental as soon as you arrive in Tuscany.</p>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW-Xf3dqrczEgKIDeo9dg6maDezGR96JDHeq0IT7H5OyNXGC5kTrEc5oUBCz32V1WT1ugK8ol0gCnXxl-CCDZf1tmFL9ubQejJvX0vj__PEmuUOsQgEh_N2DUbg69d981LQToMzG2Vark/s1600/IMG_4018.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW-Xf3dqrczEgKIDeo9dg6maDezGR96JDHeq0IT7H5OyNXGC5kTrEc5oUBCz32V1WT1ugK8ol0gCnXxl-CCDZf1tmFL9ubQejJvX0vj__PEmuUOsQgEh_N2DUbg69d981LQToMzG2Vark/w640-h425/IMG_4018.JPG" style="border: 1px solid rgb(68, 49, 152); margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cars in Tuscany</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<p>If you want to stay in the countryside or visit the beautiful smaller villages throughout Tuscany, renting a car is the best solution. It will offer independence from the fixed bus and train schedules and the random transportation strikes that tend to occur in Italy. You can move from one place to the next at your leisure.</p>
<ul>
<li>Hertz </li>
<li>Thrifty </li>
</ul>
<p>In Italian, "<b>carburante</b>" and "<b>benzina</b>" are generic words for <b>gasoline/petrol</b>. But diesel is diesel in Italian as well, so PAY ATTENTION and know what kind of car you're renting so that you put the right type in the car.</p><h3 class="page-title">Parking</h3><p>Find parking in Florence.</p><div><ul><li><b><a href="http://www.visitflorence.com/florence-maps/parking-lots-in-florence.html" target="_blank">Florence</a></b></li><li><b><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1CPPql0pIGWL73wuBc9AKxCZhv1g&hl=en&ll=43.75330324224973%2C11.247253499999943&z=13" target="_blank">Map of Parking in Florence</a></b></li></ul></div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">What You Need to Rent a Car</h2><p>Renting a car in Tuscany is extremely simple since you can reserve your rental car online before you head to Tuscany.</p>
<ul>
<li>A credit card is required for the reservation.</li>
<li>Non-European Union citizens will need, in addition to their driver's license, an International.</li>
<li>Driver's Permit/License along with your license to be able to drive in Italy. So make sure you've got your documents in order before departing.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="page-title">Car Rentals</h3><div><p>Links:</p><ul><li><b><a href="https://www.nationalcar.com/en/home.html" target="_blank">National</a></b></li><li><b><a href="https://www.budget.com/en/home?gclid=CJn90a2D-NUCFUlNfgodzcMCHQ&gclsrc=aw.ds&dclid=CMv-7a2D-NUCFddqfgodjhoBBw" target="_blank">Budget</a></b></li><li><b><a href="https://www.thrifty.com/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI3LKtxoP41QIVAQxpCh38bwDAEAAYASAAEgKj5fD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds" target="_blank">Thrifty</a></b></li></ul></div>
<hr />Unknownnoreply@blogger.comFlorence, Metropolitan City of Florence, Italy43.7695604 11.255813615.459326563821158 -23.9004364 72.079794236178856 46.412063599999996tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795978620539499804.post-59952981963981221372017-06-02T09:15:00.038-06:002023-11-22T22:49:08.811-07:00Getting to Tuscany by Train<p>If you fly into Rome, taking the train from Rome to Florence is the most cost-effective transportation choice and removes the stress of driving in Italy or figuring out multiple bus transfers. As a glorious added bonus, you can watch the beautiful Italian scenery drift by the window en route.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrL9uIbzuNlu6mtJ3Ne6HfSHhB6qR5qLLSFHExa6qx3lFCKmEo_ONoEg_FOuCSxWUWrJx2CLqRrQ9BqjFBO3rqzhlns9MJdpbxJxz5yKUhHNJw7pUGxuDAM9bId1Za3pQxVooy8DnDzU0/s1600/transportation-home-train-tickets.jpg"><img height="411" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrL9uIbzuNlu6mtJ3Ne6HfSHhB6qR5qLLSFHExa6qx3lFCKmEo_ONoEg_FOuCSxWUWrJx2CLqRrQ9BqjFBO3rqzhlns9MJdpbxJxz5yKUhHNJw7pUGxuDAM9bId1Za3pQxVooy8DnDzU0/w640-h411/transportation-home-train-tickets.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<p>From Roma Termini, Trenitalia's high-speed Alta Velocità (AV) trains leave for Florence's Santa Maria Novella (often abbreviated to Firenze S.M. Novella) station 3-4 times per hour during most of the day on weekdays—there are 68
trains per day.</p>
<p>Always check for updated time schedules. Generally, the first train leaves Termini at 6:20 a.m., and the last leaves at 8:50 p.m. </p>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkWtP3_H0Y6DIwNakS_XWy4qCWOAMW7CksxlU0oCNs_rRDCrmUg0xUGJdH2GZ32LM9J4CqIsOoZoJuwTT0RPmm8GokKGHC3zaTcGsN7Yvxq6sKvkXIt98loiwCE9gDiDbfb4U9uoXaOUw/s1600/rometoflorencemap.jpg"><img height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkWtP3_H0Y6DIwNakS_XWy4qCWOAMW7CksxlU0oCNs_rRDCrmUg0xUGJdH2GZ32LM9J4CqIsOoZoJuwTT0RPmm8GokKGHC3zaTcGsN7Yvxq6sKvkXIt98loiwCE9gDiDbfb4U9uoXaOUw/w640-h384/rometoflorencemap.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Train from Rome to Florence</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">Stations</h3>
<ul>
<li>Rome: <a href="https://www.italiarail.com/train-station/rome-termini-train-station">Termini Train Station</a></li>
<li>Florence: <a href="https://www.italiarail.com/train-station/santa-maria-novella-train-station">Santa Maria Novella (SMN)</a></li>
</ul>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Railways</h3>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.italiarail.com/">ITALIARAIL</a></li>
</ul><div><br /></div><div><h3 class="page-title">Links</h3><div>Traveling by train in Europe.</div><div><br /></div><ul><li><b><a href="https://www.amtrak.com/home?&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=amtrak&utm_campaign=Amtrak%7CAmtrak+KW%7CDesktop_DFCB&utm_content=smeyyGqsV|dc_pcrid_|139261757023&WT.mc_t=Amtrak%7CAmtrak+KW%7CDesktop_DFCB&WT.mc_n=google|amtrak&WT.mc_r=365&buf=999&WT.srch=1&CMP=search_brand" target="_blank">Amtrak</a></b></li><li><b><a href="https://www.raileurope.com/index.html?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI8Le75oP41QIVy5d-Ch2Wyws4EAAYASAAEgKXWfD_BwE" target="_blank">Euro-rail</a></b></li><li><b><a href="https://www.thetrainline.com/" target="_blank">Trainline</a></b></li><li><b><a href="http://www.gestramvia.com/" target="_blank">GEST (Tram in Florence, Italy)</a></b></li></ul><div><p><br /></p></div></div>
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<hr />Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795978620539499804.post-47949240653737567592017-06-01T09:06:00.017-06:002023-11-22T22:55:49.032-07:00Getting to Tuscany by Air<p>There are multiple ways to get to Tuscany. You can arrive by air, train, tram or automobile. Most airlines have regular flights to Rome or Milan. Some have direct flights to Venice (Delta). </p>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPsHmuEtrGOm3aehklr0QYTHFuqdKeXrlyOslNFx2PGNH_3SCUwtMn52LobRfGC1ArY8rPBOkC3ZH1ypKHzqLVNwv9NbfcoKQ3gSsiF-PY2WhfA0mbH_Qr9Pvxz0feDkXwbuBHrOX-4r8/s1600/150324_flights-hero-image_1330x742.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="742" data-original-width="1330" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPsHmuEtrGOm3aehklr0QYTHFuqdKeXrlyOslNFx2PGNH_3SCUwtMn52LobRfGC1ArY8rPBOkC3ZH1ypKHzqLVNwv9NbfcoKQ3gSsiF-PY2WhfA0mbH_Qr9Pvxz0feDkXwbuBHrOX-4r8/w640-h358/150324_flights-hero-image_1330x742.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<p>One little-known fact is that some airlines have seasonal non-stop flights to Pisa if you are heading to Tuscany. It might be worth checking out since it is a short train ride from Florence, and the prices are usually more economical. Most other cities in Italy do not have intercontinental airports. For example, to fly into Florence, you must first stop in some other European city.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Fly into Florence</h2><p>Most people fly into Florence. The <b>Florence airport (FLR) </b><a href="http://www.aeroporto.firenze.it/en/" target="_blank">Aeroporto di Firence Peretoloa (in Florence), formally known as the Amerigo Vespucci Airport</a>, is located on the northwest outskirts of Florence, just 4 km from the city center. The airport can be reached from the center of Florence by bus, car or taxi.</p>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKiFwnnUL6kgd6RVWqOGs1ION0m5Vu4eGfYqXFAtQDChfd7J7EA4s1oq91qPqH7jptA_rsUCFRhJ54xrr3lhtaSB8Ogvlrj6Z-uWg2cdZrk2NZexsHtvTbdYzlqpx4ArBn-pjauiIndPc/s1600/aeroporto-vespucci1.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="740" data-original-width="984" height="482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKiFwnnUL6kgd6RVWqOGs1ION0m5Vu4eGfYqXFAtQDChfd7J7EA4s1oq91qPqH7jptA_rsUCFRhJ54xrr3lhtaSB8Ogvlrj6Z-uWg2cdZrk2NZexsHtvTbdYzlqpx4ArBn-pjauiIndPc/w640-h482/aeroporto-vespucci1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aerporto di Firenze Perterola</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<p>If the weather is bad, you may be rerouted to another local airport and bused back to Florence. Airports close by include:</p>
- <b><a href="http://www.pisa-airport.com/en/">Pisa International Airport </a> </b>(1 hr from Florence)<br />
- <b><a href="http://www.bologna-airport.it/en/travellers.aspx?idC=61676&LN=en-US">Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport</a> </b>(1.5 hrs from Florence)<br /><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
Fly into Pisa</h2>
<p>The <b>Pisa Airport</b> is the second airport in Tuscany, and from some destinations, it might make more sense to fly there and then get yourself over to Florence.</p>
<p>The new Pisa Mover shuttle connects Pisa Airport to the Pisa Centrale main train station throughout the day, and from there, you can take the train to Florence's SMN train station and be in Florence in about an hour.</p>
<p>Bus charter companies also offer service directly from the airport to the SMN train station in Florence. Some buses continue to the Florence Airport after that (in case you are interested in getting to the Florence airport).</p>
- <a href="http://www.pisa-airport.com/en/"><b>Pisa International Airport</b> </a> (1 hr from Florence)<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Fly into Rome</h2><div>
Or you can arrive at the <b>Rome Airport</b> and travel to Tuscany by <a href="http://www.art-excursions.com/2017/06/getting-to-tuscany-by-train.html" target="_blank">train</a>.<br />
<br />
- <b><a href="http://www.aeroporto.firenze.it/en/">Rome Airport, Fiumicino - Leonardo da Vinci airport</a></b> </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Links to Major Airlines</h3><p>Flying on any major airline. Links to some US airlines.</p><ul><li><b><a href="https://www.delta.com/" target="_blank">Delta</a></b></li><li><b><a href="https://www.aa.com/" target="_blank">American</a></b></li><li><b><a href="https://www.united.com/ual/en/us/" target="_blank">United</a></b></li><li><b><a href="http://www.nationsonline.org/oneworld/major_airlines.htm" target="_blank">Click Here</a></b> to see the Major Airlines of the World</li></ul><p><br /></p></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.comFlorence, Metropolitan City of Florence, Italy43.7695604 11.2558136000000143.586129400000004 10.93309010000001 43.9529914 11.578537100000011tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795978620539499804.post-52285097881255668422016-11-01T22:32:00.001-06:002023-11-22T21:33:58.638-07:00What to Pack when Traveling Abroad <p>Whether you are going on a weekend trip, a three-day business trip, or traveling internationally for an extended period, what you pack or do not pack can significantly impact the outcome of your trip. </p><span><a name='more'></a></span>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-z4_WmZbP_vskrigpWJJHjtAAQxe5lnYkFTT1yAlTjgz9SeOAT28W0B_mePQBzSdepXtdR_cuAkFEH9TPlICTEWFAi74LUjyUaLUItSiCvGxvZ5zD9UXuFVu7TdWUsTJbvSZGzDN8OyE/s1600/carry-on-header.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="1010" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-z4_WmZbP_vskrigpWJJHjtAAQxe5lnYkFTT1yAlTjgz9SeOAT28W0B_mePQBzSdepXtdR_cuAkFEH9TPlICTEWFAi74LUjyUaLUItSiCvGxvZ5zD9UXuFVu7TdWUsTJbvSZGzDN8OyE/w640-h188/carry-on-header.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carry-on</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br/>
<p>Regardless of the destination or duration of your travel, you should consider packing versatile and adaptable articles.</p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
On Your Person</h3>
- Comfortable and appropriate footwear <br />
- Cash in the destination Currency <br />
- Passport & other personal Identification <br />
- Country contact info <br />
- Dummy/Throw-away wallet <br />
- Business Cards <br />
- Charge Card <br />
- Transport tickets<br /><br />
<h3>
Carry-on</h3>
- Medications <br />
- Copies of passport and ID <br />
- Vaccination certificates <br />
- Prescription notes <br />
- A change of clothes <br />
- Map of destination<br />
- Coat, raincoat or umbrella <br />
<br />
<h3>
Checked Bag</h3>
- Versatile and adaptable clothes <br />
- Mobile phone charger and international adapters <br />
- Toiletries <br />
- 'Emergency-Bag,' see below<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRzslwbJfEaF6SSeqWfzx7jA5Q1CfT9AqDKfsbr0mN5um_6PtmTfRrM3E6pziAbmKkvfSHXl2AMfhZstbk0MOiXBNFN4PqiyChTKQyl2PfBNoFqSS_U9mcZXSALmSGtNYdcL9CJBxRDx0/s1600/BagFee.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="492" data-original-width="728" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRzslwbJfEaF6SSeqWfzx7jA5Q1CfT9AqDKfsbr0mN5um_6PtmTfRrM3E6pziAbmKkvfSHXl2AMfhZstbk0MOiXBNFN4PqiyChTKQyl2PfBNoFqSS_U9mcZXSALmSGtNYdcL9CJBxRDx0/w640-h432/BagFee.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Checked Bags</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3>
The 'Emergency Bag'</h3><p style="text-align: left;">
The 'Emergency Bag' is a bag just big enough to accommodate personal security items and other belongings that will be of use to you should you need to evacuate your place of stay in a hurry. You can pre-pack your 'Emergency Bag' with your personal security items before you travel; however, when you arrive, you should finish packing your 'Emergency Bag' with other items identified below.</p>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD_32S4xuCr316EzWkWNVaPeviJHpiBUugxQpl3zfWIG-LAqFpZCSsQe8NacxVHwpkam1Gq_0TCL5NNywOMh2rbvq0pcIyzTrr8HlMdH6jl3IFiybczrq0Y6srH1bqoNxK1Y3buT0Hizw/s1600/photography-bug-out-bag-go-bag-2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="844" data-original-width="1500" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD_32S4xuCr316EzWkWNVaPeviJHpiBUugxQpl3zfWIG-LAqFpZCSsQe8NacxVHwpkam1Gq_0TCL5NNywOMh2rbvq0pcIyzTrr8HlMdH6jl3IFiybczrq0Y6srH1bqoNxK1Y3buT0Hizw/w640-h360/photography-bug-out-bag-go-bag-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Emergency Bags</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Personal Security Items</h3>
- Flashlight and batteries <br />
- Emergency foil blanket <br />
- Personal attack alarm <br />
- Compass or GPS <br />
- Roll of duct tape <br />
- Personal first aid kit <br />
- Multi-use tool <br />
- Smoke hood <br />
- Doorstop <br /><br />
<h3>
Clothing</h3>
- A hat (to block sun or for warmth)<br />
- A change of clothes <br />
- Extra pair of socks <br />
- Light jacket, shell, or poncho <br />
- Scarf or bandana
<br /><br />
<h3>
What to <u>NOT</u> Pack</h3>
<p style="text-align: left;">
Note that the final decision rests with the TSA officer on whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint. Below is a general list of items to NOT bring. Click <a href="https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring" target="_blank"><b>here</b></a> to visit the TSA website for specifics.</p>
- Drugs without a valid prescription note <br />
- Unlabeled, non-prescription medication <br />
- Illicit substances <br />
- Fuels and Lubricants <br />
- Alcohol <br />
- Weapons <br />
- Classified information <br />
- Aerosols <br />
- Pornography
<br /><br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
What Pack Upon Arrival</h3>
- Address lists and contact numbers <br />
- Filled water bottle or bottled water <br />
- Transportation tickets <br />
- Copies of passport and ID <br />
- Meal bars or granola bars <br />
- Cash<br />
<br />
Art Verve Academyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15434252256394058640noreply@blogger.comTucson, AZ, USA32.2539787 -110.97417693.9437448638211521 -146.1304269 60.564212536178843 -75.8179269tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795978620539499804.post-78245653845742635522016-10-31T08:19:00.020-06:002023-11-22T22:38:32.268-07:00The Region of Tuscany<p>We will be touring the region of Tuscany (Italian "Toscana"), a province in central Italy. Its diverse natural landscape encompasses the rugged Apennine Mountains, the island of Elba's beaches on the Tyrrhenian Sea, and Chianti's olive groves and vineyards.</p>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihP2CzsfCVX3MApw9NkkEzw1TM1153eTWw53SuNjLKvHsedZA_1Z62Q0JSbDuW0Rz-JjTSapNvccVUEF5XIsJ7OodoWVDrc-O_NifywMPrzjfqQcj2X1hYVyNmmjKkQytIGrj_R9a-Po8/s1600/Italy_Map.gif" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="524" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihP2CzsfCVX3MApw9NkkEzw1TM1153eTWw53SuNjLKvHsedZA_1Z62Q0JSbDuW0Rz-JjTSapNvccVUEF5XIsJ7OodoWVDrc-O_NifywMPrzjfqQcj2X1hYVyNmmjKkQytIGrj_R9a-Po8/w640-h524/Italy_Map.gif" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Toscana is Italian for Tuscany</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h2>Tuscany</h2>
<p>After the hot summer months of July and August, things begin to cool in Florence in September.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizJ3pS9NkWApRRW6nh9BB7QN8jBGJ-yjDci-_7L8eDrcF6wVH_dImgI3QZ2HiAWqEJyKNeVGB-uEe30GU204d9YgrK5rM78xtn8bLES0X6YVb4fQgJmMZqSRL847yRMHobOXy7zUozO08/s1600/b10a1c6e-2446-47c4-8472-07a74816ddca.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="694" data-original-width="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizJ3pS9NkWApRRW6nh9BB7QN8jBGJ-yjDci-_7L8eDrcF6wVH_dImgI3QZ2HiAWqEJyKNeVGB-uEe30GU204d9YgrK5rM78xtn8bLES0X6YVb4fQgJmMZqSRL847yRMHobOXy7zUozO08/s16000/b10a1c6e-2446-47c4-8472-07a74816ddca.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<p>However, if you run hot or are not used to humidity, please bring a travel or hand held fan.</p>
<p>When the autumn season is just beginning, the average temperature starts off at 73.4°F (23°C), with highs of 84.2°F (29°C) during the daytime and lows of 62.6°F (17°C) after dark.</p>
<h2>Chianti</h2>
<p>Visit <a href="https://www.accuweather.com/en/it/spedaletto/2563128/weather-forecast/2563128"> </a><b><a href="https://www.accuweather.com/en/it/spedaletto/2563128/weather-forecast/2563128">AccuWeather</a></b></p>
<h2>Florence</h2>
<p>Visit <b><a href="https://us.worldweatheronline.com/florence-weather/toscana/it.aspx">Florence Weather</a></b></p>
<p> You may stay informed with reliable local forecasts, radar and real-time weather alerts.</p>
<h2>
Weather Forecast</h2>
Links:<br />
<ul></ul>
- <b><a href="https://www.accuweather.com/">AccuWeather</a></b> <br />
- <b><a href="https://weather.com/">The Weather Channel</a></b> <br />
- <b><a href="https://weather.weatherbug.com/">The Weather Bug</a></b> <br />
- <b><a href="http://www.intellicast.com/">Intellicast</a></b> <br />
- <b><a href="http://www.weather.gov/">The National Weather Service</a></b><br />
<div class="page-title">
<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comTuscany, Italy43.7710513 11.248620815.460817463821158 -23.907629200000002 72.081285136178849 46.4048708tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795978620539499804.post-83764110954013760662016-10-30T22:30:00.002-06:002024-02-22T19:02:30.878-07:00World Time Zones<p style="text-align: left;">The <a href="https://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/full.html" target="_blank"><b>Time & Date</b> </a>website is a handy tool to find out the current date and time in any city on the globe.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOguCLWqoAnIaMm8uDzs1ihOgJ9Y4diUGnbwqLbQgRmTxbT2BXiGX1Mcd9TrWKCUD5r6LOWEnfyZeBoL4CKdAmboYijAGziN6DJvZTNaxxR2GqmfjcXcroyFAqYb1WEVlL-1cVpUWDkIk/s16000/YU015589.jpg" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Timezones</td></tr></tbody></table>
<span><a name='more'></a></span>
<br />
<h3><b>Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)</b></h3>
<p>Has been the home of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) since 1884. GMT is sometimes called Greenwich Meridian Time because it is measured from the Greenwich Meridian Line. The Meridian Line, sometimes called the Prime Meridian, is an imaginary line that runs from the North Pole to the South Pole.</p>
<p>By international convention, it runs through "the primary transit" instrument (main telescope) at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich. The Prime Meridian is the place from where all time zones are measured. Each time zone is counted from GMT.</p>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7-wvq3Ni9dcbP8A5uakKh2MyFR4izKVchTj8ca21RFHpdOML7ZrqbS8uP49-pcd06Pt2jGN7J-OK0tgXi1BZKl5M103iSg-l9WJDiUzd2-NCGFG0Ab7IbRq9EuVacbyy1HVQDgABC72w/s1600/Greenwich_meridian_02.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="401" data-original-width="400" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7-wvq3Ni9dcbP8A5uakKh2MyFR4izKVchTj8ca21RFHpdOML7ZrqbS8uP49-pcd06Pt2jGN7J-OK0tgXi1BZKl5M103iSg-l9WJDiUzd2-NCGFG0Ab7IbRq9EuVacbyy1HVQDgABC72w/w398-h400/Greenwich_meridian_02.jpg" width="398" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Prime Meridian is the place from where all time zones are measured.<br />
Each time zone is counted from the GMT.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<p>Time zones are measured by adding an hour or subtracting an extra hour to the current or present Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). The further you are away from GMT, the larger the number.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCgvkMXlxPEU8uH-4SeF65_7bx-uMJvsAIjxDEboF57WUP-rz840DZgJflJlrNdZHKkoV1ccMaQpTGGZwVrgua2uhu_KDm_7vTXLneeCQljszbqxzsDgOi19PBzFeoZTdpbKOUbVAWfPg/s1600/The-Prime-Meridian1.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="574" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCgvkMXlxPEU8uH-4SeF65_7bx-uMJvsAIjxDEboF57WUP-rz840DZgJflJlrNdZHKkoV1ccMaQpTGGZwVrgua2uhu_KDm_7vTXLneeCQljszbqxzsDgOi19PBzFeoZTdpbKOUbVAWfPg/w640-h334/The-Prime-Meridian1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Prime Meridian</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<p>The Prime Meridian is also known as Zero Longitude, and it is the line from which all other lines of longitude are measured. This includes the line 180° away from Greenwich, the International Date Line.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjge33bylSVdqpStC_Vy5TF5hfX0yxhmlklXwG_T1iFvUzR8AmgP2I16gGUxtqR29tCVzk0aPhqJUbFU413T5LWQ2-nmBDomDnetAl5CSQeywkO_7zwubMK1r-c4z8vbPvNU88a_pAD3M8/s1600/world-time-zone-2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="556" data-original-width="1024" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjge33bylSVdqpStC_Vy5TF5hfX0yxhmlklXwG_T1iFvUzR8AmgP2I16gGUxtqR29tCVzk0aPhqJUbFU413T5LWQ2-nmBDomDnetAl5CSQeywkO_7zwubMK1r-c4z8vbPvNU88a_pAD3M8/w640-h346/world-time-zone-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">World Time Zone Map</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Art Verve Academyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15434252256394058640noreply@blogger.comTucson, AZ, USA32.2539787 -110.97417693.9437448638211521 -146.1304269 60.564212536178843 -75.8179269tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795978620539499804.post-47527768416609800232016-10-29T10:53:00.018-06:002023-11-22T23:00:02.303-07:00Italy, Here We Come!<p>Based on a suggestion from one of our students, we have decided to take students to Italy in September of 2017 !!</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi_6at22S2TQ80fdPsGbEUh3h4UcMcpG_xDxNz1qzeRG5LnGmQeKC-A40fdPM2tYJ3mdMYDewokpGIAwGpiqSo8bPVeFphRlGRgw8p7TS9OT-jm42x1-PV_OJpqe-1MWUlsyKXr1R4qpk/s1600/Flag_of_Italy.svg.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi_6at22S2TQ80fdPsGbEUh3h4UcMcpG_xDxNz1qzeRG5LnGmQeKC-A40fdPM2tYJ3mdMYDewokpGIAwGpiqSo8bPVeFphRlGRgw8p7TS9OT-jm42x1-PV_OJpqe-1MWUlsyKXr1R4qpk/w640-h426/Flag_of_Italy.svg.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flag of Italy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<p>The flag of Italy is a tricolor featuring three equally sized vertical pales of green, white, and red, with the green at the hoist side.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKgTWFAwxo9N2U0pWLubKZmtBMvrFx1fMBcxETFZ-CnJ47C15OLrLvsK11YRgvOoOk0QQ0nL6N-64nZI-EaaGzWfJgCHRVvmZLRm4MJqOZJlzQBxJAtxTSB_Hcp35VftwJ1Eqy7TlbugY/s1600/EU-Italy.png"><img height="539" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKgTWFAwxo9N2U0pWLubKZmtBMvrFx1fMBcxETFZ-CnJ47C15OLrLvsK11YRgvOoOk0QQ0nL6N-64nZI-EaaGzWfJgCHRVvmZLRm4MJqOZJlzQBxJAtxTSB_Hcp35VftwJ1Eqy7TlbugY/w640-h539/EU-Italy.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><center>Italy</center></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<p>Italy (Italy in Italian) is a European country with a long Mediterranean coastline. It shares open land borders with France, Switzerland, Austria, Slovenia, San Marino, and Vatican City. Its capital, Rome, is home to the Vatican as well as landmark art and ancient ruins. The official currency is the Euro (€).</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4T5fxVLhizWK5ymGdFUGLBJbYug0WApSUmXYrh9lxiduGtfTefn5sMKXLPeBvImYToBLtK0skvouAq3hQc_bNqKa_hKwS_kV6XU5v5YkNzg2_UGsh7x9xmemv2-1_I-EJTe6C7eJA02o/s1600/Euro_coins_and_banknotes.jpg"><img height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4T5fxVLhizWK5ymGdFUGLBJbYug0WApSUmXYrh9lxiduGtfTefn5sMKXLPeBvImYToBLtK0skvouAq3hQc_bNqKa_hKwS_kV6XU5v5YkNzg2_UGsh7x9xmemv2-1_I-EJTe6C7eJA02o/w640-h480/Euro_coins_and_banknotes.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Euro (€)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<p>Italy has a largely temperate seasonal climate or Mediterranean climate; due to its shape, it is often referred to in Italy as lo Stivale (the Boot).</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0trcSr6PcdqL-lVdN3U1DfiITIsGI2H7b3EfIzIX53sZDrGLQHTeCu6OkgJPF5DZ16-NjUw9DuUi3egDoC6urhNRJsHWLkqSCRPxHvIArsLEcW46xkMJxteuNNhHk9fJ1LiF3q5BUF5U/s1600/travel-map-of-italy.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0trcSr6PcdqL-lVdN3U1DfiITIsGI2H7b3EfIzIX53sZDrGLQHTeCu6OkgJPF5DZ16-NjUw9DuUi3egDoC6urhNRJsHWLkqSCRPxHvIArsLEcW46xkMJxteuNNhHk9fJ1LiF3q5BUF5U/s640/travel-map-of-italy.jpg" width="100%" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><center>Map of Italy</center></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<h3 class="page-title">Italy</h3><p><b></b></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b><a href="http://www.discoveritalia.it/mappe/mappeRaster.asp?az=localita&townname=Ancona">Discover Italia</a></b></li><li><b><a href="http://www.lib.utexas.edu/maps/italy.html">Maps of Italy</a></b></li><li><b><a href="http://www.bueker.net/trainspotting/map.php?file=maps/italy/italy.gif">Transportation Map</a></b></li><li><b><a href="http://www.geoplan.it/">Geoplan</a></b></li></ul><h3 class="page-title"><br /></h3><h3 class="page-title">Italian</h3><p>Here are some Italian phrases that are useful...</p>
<p>
<b>Thank you...Grazie</b></p>
<p>
<b>You're Welcome...Prego</b></p>
<p>
<b>Please...Per favore</b></p>
<p>
<b>Yes...Si</b></p>
<p>
<b>No...No</b></p>
<p>
<b>Excuse me...Mi scusi</b></p>
<p>
<b>I'm sorry...Mi dispiace</b></p>
<div>
<b>I don't understand..Non capiso</b></div>
<p>
<b>Where is the bathroom?...Dov’è la toilette?</b></p>
<p>
Most Italians do speak English these days because of the internet, you won't have any trouble finding someone to help you.</p><p><br /></p>
<br />
<hr />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795978620539499804.post-63573162110929114792016-10-05T22:55:00.001-06:002023-11-22T22:01:40.959-07:00Traveler's Insurance<p>Art Verve Excursions does not include travel insurance for participants. However, travel insurance is strongly recommended for anyone traveling overseas or to other countries. </p>
<h3>Traveler's Insurance</h3>
<p>Travel insurance is strongly recommended for anyone traveling overseas or to other countries.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLxe-r1cPL8wjB0JosbdS88Pu2WyFUEBu__DCugAjQSiNIt74AqeIYMP2XmH8OgclmokdDyCUVsiUtnuoOhMYaUCtP5rhXeL6oEWiTdYu3tZMumlztQJVcHWhJG-QMylhZ1WbssqXK4ac/s1600/insurance.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="414" data-original-width="621" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLxe-r1cPL8wjB0JosbdS88Pu2WyFUEBu__DCugAjQSiNIt74AqeIYMP2XmH8OgclmokdDyCUVsiUtnuoOhMYaUCtP5rhXeL6oEWiTdYu3tZMumlztQJVcHWhJG-QMylhZ1WbssqXK4ac/w640-h424/insurance.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3>
Trip Cancellation Coverage</h3>
<p>
It protects you against costly penalties if you need to cancel your trip at the last minute. You must take out a policy soon after paying for your trip for full coverage.</p>
<p>Reputable companies include:</p>
- <b><a href="https://www.travelexinsurance.com/">Travelex</a></b> +1 (800) 504-7883 <br />
<br />
- <b><a href="https://www.travelguard.com/">Travel Guard International </a></b>+1 (877) 901-7599 <br />
<br />
- <b><a href="http://www.betins.com/">Betins</a></b> <br />
<br />
- <b><a href="https://www.allianztravelinsurance.com/lp/ppc?gclid=CMrqu6X7vNUCFYaTfgodXXgDwQ&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=alianz&utm_content=&utm_campaign=Brand%20ATI">Allianz</a></b> <br />
<br />
- <b><a href="https://www.travelinsured.com/">Travel Insured International</a></b><br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Medical Insurance Coverage</h3>
<p>
For coverage on medical coverage and assistance in foreign countries, including evacuation, medical supplies, or medical monitoring, see the following sites.</p>
<p>
Reputable companies include the <b><a href="https://www.internationalsos.com/">International SOS</a></b></p>Art Verve Academyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15434252256394058640noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795978620539499804.post-15019199704320850642016-10-04T22:26:00.000-06:002023-11-22T21:45:12.283-07:00Tips on Luggage<p style="text-align: left;"><b>'Carry-on bags' </b>should be smaller than 9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches (22 cm x 35 cm x 56 cm), including handles and wheels.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><b>'Checked bags' </b>are delivered on an airline in the hold of the aircraft and are inaccessible to any passenger during the flight or ride. Each should weigh <b>under 75 lbs.</b> or you may be charged an additional handling fee by the airline.<span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsJvxyhMQNpus2WCavUoLfqQLItuwGUSLUnlZLTaF2CYH2jJmqnY6W46zW5SpgBk6qWf8ZPg0dQ1U64CrfN8ir4G6oJhFYu61KPY2U3_I4BttihikFaBOfxXJcQeDqbZg0yR9Q2OSCzCc/s1600/Luggage.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="267" data-original-width="400" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsJvxyhMQNpus2WCavUoLfqQLItuwGUSLUnlZLTaF2CYH2jJmqnY6W46zW5SpgBk6qWf8ZPg0dQ1U64CrfN8ir4G6oJhFYu61KPY2U3_I4BttihikFaBOfxXJcQeDqbZg0yR9Q2OSCzCc/w640-h426/Luggage.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption">Luggage</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<p style="text-align: left;">
The Transportation Security Administration, or TSA, is part of the Department of Homeland Security. Planning ahead and packing properly can facilitate the screening process and ease your travel experience at the airport. Know what you can pack in your carry-on and checked baggage before arriving at the airport by reviewing the lists below.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.tsa.gov/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="129" data-original-width="390" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7W0DyqMBdyAiilUm_KK0_h2p59M4c9BvtxaL4Gb8-oO00IBSk4xjLgwOqj3GJzvRtXCYaQZ7qbpYo3ceoQyrggDl_NC5GNfMzMsMhO_ioIucfwguTF-ndZ5-2wTyA7kltY3TTyj-10S4/w640-h210/TSA.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em;"></span></div>
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<p style="text-align: left;">
Even if an item is generally permitted, it may be subject to additional screening or not allowed through the checkpoint if it triggers an alarm during the screening process, appears to have been tampered with, or poses other security concerns. <b><a href="https://www.tsa.gov/travel/travel-tips/travel-checklist" target="_blank">Click here</a></b> to see the official TSA travel checklist.</p>Art Verve Academyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15434252256394058640noreply@blogger.comTucson, AZ, USA32.2539787 -110.97417693.9437448638211521 -146.1304269 60.564212536178843 -75.8179269tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795978620539499804.post-52970777202860907342016-10-03T22:45:00.008-06:002023-11-22T21:51:06.516-07:00Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)<p>It is a free service that allows U.S. citizens and nationals traveling abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEuwWk_N0ZHJR-sRGOnAr_vm4y0XvjIHP89-xSm2-QiaCqDJp-WpMG_3oNBIgEX1EEUzec_P8mO5R_n2rzeWBg2OHqOegeCmksizuEFvYKqHjC7AR7ODZfHcvIoaOgYUYcBvPYLzhNuME/s1600/migliore-polizza-assicurazione-viaggio.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="550" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEuwWk_N0ZHJR-sRGOnAr_vm4y0XvjIHP89-xSm2-QiaCqDJp-WpMG_3oNBIgEX1EEUzec_P8mO5R_n2rzeWBg2OHqOegeCmksizuEFvYKqHjC7AR7ODZfHcvIoaOgYUYcBvPYLzhNuME/w640-h640/migliore-polizza-assicurazione-viaggio.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h2>Enroll Today!</h2>
<p>Before you travel overseas, enroll in the <a data-cke-saved-href="https://step.state.gov/step/" href="https://step.state.gov/step/" target="_blank"><b>State Department Safe Traveler Program (STEP)</b></a>.</p><p>The benefits of enrolling are as follows:</p>
1) You will receive important information from the U.S. Embassy about safety conditions in your destination country, which will help you make informed decisions about your plans.<br />
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2) The U.S. Embassy will contact you in a natural disaster, civil unrest, or family emergency.<br />
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3) Help family and friends contact you in an emergency.
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Art Verve Academyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15434252256394058640noreply@blogger.comTucson, AZ, USA32.2539787 -110.97417693.9437448638211521 -146.1304269 60.564212536178843 -75.8179269tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795978620539499804.post-7323778405746075042016-10-02T22:06:00.000-06:002023-11-22T21:26:19.108-07:00Renew Your U.S. Passport<p>A valid passport is essential for travel to any foreign country.</p>
<p>Most countries require that your passport be valid for at least 6 months beyond the completion of a trip. Check your passport early and renew it well to avoid trouble before your travel.</p>
<p><span style="color: blue;">Note that if your passport expires 3-6 months from your entry date, you may be prevented from foreign travel!</span></p>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZNh3MV9bXhao9S9UP2_NdnY1HH5PLIhl87-ldHhLK2GnPUih4PT6eKGHtxJMuHvrM17IKlT6-MOgnbgMi2VAOaWZ-jxPMawxH9rJUmVjE2nN8YfiJzFh6J0pPBj0GuqT3FopQmJqM7og/s1600/content-passport.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZNh3MV9bXhao9S9UP2_NdnY1HH5PLIhl87-ldHhLK2GnPUih4PT6eKGHtxJMuHvrM17IKlT6-MOgnbgMi2VAOaWZ-jxPMawxH9rJUmVjE2nN8YfiJzFh6J0pPBj0GuqT3FopQmJqM7og/w640-h480/content-passport.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">U.S. Passport</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h2>Apply for a New Passport</h2>
<p>This must be done in person, either at a post office that offers that service or at a U.S. State Department office. You can also apply online at the <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en.html" target="_blank"><b>U.S. Department of State</b></a>.</p>
<h3><b>Proof of Citizenship</b></h3>
<p>You must have proof of your U.S. citizenship, including:</p>
- Notarized (embossed seal) copy of your birth certificate <br />
- Valid photo I.D. or driver's license<br />
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<h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>Cost & Processing Time</b></h3>
<p style="text-align: left;">The standard fee is around USD 110. It will take at least 4 to 6 weeks, or you may pay an expedited processing fee of USD 60 to have it processed in 2 to 3 weeks. You can pick it up in person or pay a USD 25 fee to mail it.</p>
<h3>
Renew Your Existing Passport</h3>
<p>When renewing your passport online, note that many sites will help you renew your passport, but they charge for their help. Be sure to visit the <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en.html" target="_blank"><b>U.S. Department of State</b></a> first to avoid paying extra fees to third-party agencies.</p>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNCW4HThGyp7nSK2yQuqVtffqJfI1qdljhh6qXJc0nnSeSjj1VsrBhYsOKwhv1G_McNlNZZ4mxVj-yNNhqnd_b4a9497URq4ReLMlz_MkatMwpXePdYtpEjGch8rkH3Xv1wpjsPGmXGJ8/s1600/US-dept-of-state-travel.png" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNCW4HThGyp7nSK2yQuqVtffqJfI1qdljhh6qXJc0nnSeSjj1VsrBhYsOKwhv1G_McNlNZZ4mxVj-yNNhqnd_b4a9497URq4ReLMlz_MkatMwpXePdYtpEjGch8rkH3Xv1wpjsPGmXGJ8/w320-h320/US-dept-of-state-travel.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dept. of State</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<p>You can <b>renew by mail</b> using <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/passports/forms.html" target="_blank" title="DS-82 form page">Form DS-82</a> if your most recent passport:</p>
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- Is submitted with your application <br />
- Is undamaged (other than normal "wear and tear") <br />
- Was issued when you were age 16 or older <br />
- Was issued within the last 15 years <br />
- Was issued in your current name (or you can document your name change with an original or certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order)<br />
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<p>If the above statements do not apply, you must <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/passports/first-time.html" target="_blank" title="Apply In Person page"><b>Apply in Person</b></a> using form <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/passports/forms.html" target="_blank" title="DS-11 form page"><b>DS-11</b>.</a></p>
<b>Please note</b>: If you are not in the United States, please see <a href="http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/passports/applying-for-a-u-s--passport-from-outside-the-united-states.html" target="_blank" title="Applying for a U.S. Passport from Outside the United States"><b>Applying for a U.S. Passport from Outside the United States.</b></a><br />
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<p>For more information, visit <b><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/passports.html">https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/passports.html</a>.</b></p>
<h3>Photocopy Your Passport</h3>
<p>Keeping track of your passport, travel documents, and cards is also important while traveling.</p><p style="text-align: left;">
Always keep your passport in your hand; do not set it down or let it go out of your sight. Consider money belts or bra wallets to increase the safety of your cash, cards, and identification.</p>
<p>Make a photocopy of your cards, passport, and I.D. before you leave and put them in your carry-on. Keep your passport with you and keep the copy in your luggage back at the hotel, or put the copy in the safe to access information in the event of theft.</p>
<h3>Passport Questions?</h3>
<p>Visit <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/passports.html"><b>https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/passports.html</b></a>.</p>
<p>Automated passport information is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.</p>
<p><b>Phone</b>: <b><a href="tel:18774872778" title="Call NPIC">1-877-487-2778</a>/ <a href="tel:18888747793" title="Call NPIC, TDD/TTY">1-888-874-7793</a></b> (TDD/TTY).<br />
Customer service representatives are available:</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Monday- Friday (8:00 am to 10:00 pm Eastern Time)<br />
Saturday (10:00 am to 3:00 pm Eastern Time)</p>
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<p>*Except on Federal Holidays</p>
<p><b>Email</b>: <a href="mailto:NPIC@state.gov">NPIC@state.gov:<br /></a>
Most email inquiries are answered within 24 hours.<br />
</p><p>Please call for the status of your passport. We cannot email that information.<br /><i>Do not email for travel emergencies. Contact us by phone only.</i></p>
<p></p>Art Verve Academyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15434252256394058640noreply@blogger.comTucson, AZ, USA32.2539787 -110.97417693.9437448638211521 -146.1304269 60.564212536178843 -75.8179269tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5795978620539499804.post-74613971761982141702016-10-01T22:45:00.000-06:002023-11-22T21:25:49.659-07:00Join Us Overseas!<p>We are starting this new blog! For our international workshops! We have decided to organize workshops overseas & in other foreign countries for students on a biannual basis.</p>
<p>That means that we now are taking students abroad to learn, create & cultivate on location! Make sure you have your passport, pack your bags and get ready to travel to instructional art workshops & programs for art lovers with guided tours of the art, architecture & museum of that region!</p>
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