Hallelujah, Back Blogging

Many apologies to faithful followers for missing a couple of months because of computer problems. If you followed me before, you will notice a small change in the blog title because I was not able to sign onto the former blog, yourtravelwriter.blogspot.com. Don't worry, though, it really is still me and I have lots to tell you about my own and my friends' recent travels.

In January and early February I visited Italy with my friend Gina on a short tour organized by Gate1 Travel http://www.gate1travel.com. It was generally a very pleasant experience, and definitely great value for money. The entire trip which lasted nine days cost less than $1400 U.S., which included air fare from  New York, stays with copious breakfasts in four-star hotels in Venice Mestre, Florence and Rome, high-speed trains between the cities, and some tours and transfers, meals and incidentals. We added on at least another $500 to cover flights to and from New York and two nights at the Courtyard by Marriott Hotel at JFK. Travelling in winter we were concerned about the possibility of being delayed by bad weather and missing our overseas flight.

I will soon fill you in on the details of this trip, my first back to Italy in quite some time. I spent an academic year there as a grad student, so always consider it a second home. Keep watching this space for more info and tips on ways to save money on your travels.