The Travel Brats

A Journey Through History 

Rome's history spans over 2,000 years, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. From its legendary founding by Romulus and Remus to its evolution into the capital of the mighty Roman Empire, the city has played a pivotal role in shaping Western civilization. 

Rome is a treasure trove of architectural marvels that showcase the skill and creativity of generations past. The Colosseum, an imposing amphitheater, symbolizes ancient Roman engineering and entertainment. Its grandeur and the stories of gladiators and epic battles that once took place within its walls continue to inspire awe. If you are taking a tour, book the ground flour tour. You will need half a day to explore the Colosseum.

Another architectural gem is the Pantheon, a feat of engineering and design with its perfectly preserved dome and oculus. Originally built as a temple to honor the gods, the Pantheon's dome remains the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world, a testament to the ingenuity of Roman architects. It is a quick visit and larger than most expect!

Architectural Marvels

Another exciting spot is Largo di Torre Argentina, where Julius Caesar was assassinated. Also known as the Area Sacra, this area is a large sunken square containing the ruins of four ancient temples and the Curia of Pompey. Area Sacra is another quick visit.

For more historical sites, visit the Victor Emmanuel II National Monument and the Forum and Palatine Hill. The Victor Emmanuel II National Monument is a large national monument built between 1885 and 1935 to honor Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of a unified Italy. The iconic Roman Forum, a sprawling archaeological site, offers a glimpse into ancient Rome's political, social, and religious life. Walking through these ancient ruins, one can almost hear the echoes of the past and imagine the grandeur of the empire that once ruled a vast expanse of the world.

The Forum and Palatine Hill are where you can find Octavian's (also known as Ceaser Agustus) house, the imperial palace, and where Romulus, the founder of Rome, lived. You will need a full day or two to explore the vast area has a multitude of history.

All the churches in Rome are spectacular. You can walk into any for a beautiful historical and moving site. A favorite church in Rome was Sant'Ignazio of Loyola Church.

Vatican City: A Spiritual Center

Nestled within the city of Rome, Vatican City is the smallest independent state in the world and the spiritual epicenter of the Roman Catholic Church. Home to the awe-inspiring St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums, this tiny enclave is a pilgrimage site for millions of faithful and art enthusiasts.

St. Peter's Basilica, with its imposing dome and breathtaking interior, is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. The Vatican Museums house an extraordinary collection of art and artifacts amassed by the Catholic Church over centuries, including Michelangelo's stunning frescoes on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel.

Remember, you must walk up the dome about 500 stairs to get to the top of St. Peter's Basilica. Pay a bit extra to take the elevator or wear comfy shoes because you still need to walk 300 stairs even with taking the elevator. Don't forget to tour the Sistine Chapel. With all its facets, you can spend as little as one and as many as three days at the Vatican. They have self-guided and private tours. Don't forget to book entry & all tours.

The Art 

If you are a lover of "Arte," the Borghese art museum is a must-see. Here, explore the works of Raphael, such as Young Woman with Unicorn, and works by Caravaggio. This museum is also one of the few sites where you don't need to pre-book or get a guide. However, the museum only allows a certain number of people each hour.

Culinary Delights

Italian cuisine is renowned worldwide, and Rome is no exception. From classic pasta dishes like carbonara and cacio e pepe to mouth-watering pizzas and gelato, the city's culinary scene is a delight for the senses. Trattorias and osterias line the charming cobblestone streets, offering a chance to savor authentic flavors passed down through generations. Our top picks for all things “buonissimo” are Tempio di Bacco, Gallura. Tempio di Bacco is a delicious local spot where the owner is quite friendly. Gallura is outstanding dining with a modern twist. Don't forget to stop for gelato.

Exploring the Neighborhoods

Rome's neighborhoods each have a unique character and charm. With its narrow streets and colorful buildings, Trastevere exudes a bohemian atmosphere. The Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain are located in the charming area of Piazza di Spagna. The Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps are gorgeous. At the top of the Spanish Steps, The Church of the Santissima Trinità dei Monti can be found. At the same time, the historic Jewish Ghetto offers a glimpse into a lesser-known facet of Rome's history. 

Where to Stay

Book a room at the Westin Excelsior Rome for the perfect stay when in Rome. 

Should You Visit Rome?

Rome, Italy, is a city that encapsulates the essence of human achievement, creativity, and endurance. From its ancient ruins to its modern-day vibrancy, every corner of Rome tells a story of the past and present. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, a food connoisseur, or a traveler seeking beauty and inspiration, Rome offers an unforgettable experience that will leave an indelible mark on your heart and soul. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to the eternal city that has captured the imagination of countless generations.

We started our Travel Brat Texas trip by flying Delta into Dallas, picking up a car from my fave new rental car company, Thrifty, and scooting over to the most beautiful little historic town. 

The historic town of McKinney, Texas, was about 45 minutes from the airport and a must-visit hidden gem on the outskirts of Dallas! We stayed in the most charming hotel- The Grand Hotel of McKinney. 

The Grand Hotel was built in 1885 by the Heard Brothers. When built, the Grand consisted of an original 14 rooms, a Grand Ballroom, and Rick's Chophouse. It was only 15,000 square feet! Later, the Tower was added, expanding the hotel to 45 rooms.

From the Willy Nelson book in our room to the Grand Ballroom and rustic red brick walls, the Grand Hotel was charming from head to toe. My favorite part was the tasteful paintings on every floor and in every room, and the little library at the end of the hall right by our room!

Check out the Grand Hotel's Experience Page for the 411 on McKinney.

The town of McKinney was quaint and charming. For morning coffee, there are two great spots: Layered and Filtered. Layered had the best hot chocolate and a killer lavender late. The most remarkable addition to the restaurant was the little robot cat tray that brought out our food. Filtered has live music along with Cadillac Pizza, Harvest, Lone Star Wine, The Pub, The Celt, and Rick's Lounge. These spots, as well as Room One Eleven, and Barron Creek are also great for a cold crisp beer.

If you are staying in McKinney, you must take the day to mozy around and visit all the adorable little shops and stores. Some town favorites are Ambrosia, Little Red Hen, Birds & Words, Antique Company, Homeology, Fair & Square, Sharla's, and Cotton Hearts.Other must-try restaurants in McKinney are The Yard, Local Yocal, Patina Green, and Urban Grill. 

For Historical cities, check out Chestnut Square Heritage Village, Collin County Farm Museum, Collin County History Museum, Heard Natural Science Museum, and the Heard-Craig Center for the Arts. For a great show, check out the McKinney Performing Arts Center.

McKinney has a plethora of art and antiques. Explore the art at Kim Guthrie Antique Company, MillHouse, and The Last Art Gallery.

Be sure to bring an umbrella so that you can stay dry! Texas weather is totally unpredictable! McKinney is a small town, so I recommend visiting for one to three days maximum. 

Beat the August heat with some "cool" Southwest Florida seafood, and celebrate summer with some sweet treats.

• Seafood 
  • Hogfish Harry’s - Naples, FL
    • Best Dessert - Carrot Cake
  • Nemos - Naples, FL
    • Best Dishes
      • Grilled Mediterranean Octopus
      • Grilled Black Grouper “ÀLA NICOISE”
      • Hawaiian Poke
      • Volcano Yellowtail Snapper
  • Cold Water Oysters Bar - Fort Myers, FL
    • Best Drinks: 
      • BlueBerry Cobbler
      • Old Fashioned
  • The Silver King Ocean Brasserie - Fort Myers, FL
    • Great Seafood & Steak
  • Oyster Society - Marco Island, FL
• Cookies
  • National 
    • Insomnia Cookie
    • Crumbl Cookies
  • Local Cookie Stores
    • Angelic Desserts - Naples, FL
    • Kristi’s Key Lime Cookies - In Select Southwest Florida Stores
    • Epiphany Bakery - Naples, FL
      • Gluten Free Bakery
• Cupcakes
  • Cherie's Sweet Treats - Bonita Springs, FL

Welcome to Antwerp, Belgium! Antwerp is one of the oldest cities in Belgium and is in the Flanders region. It is known for its stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. 

This vibrant city is located on the banks of the Scheldt River and is home to some of the most incredible sights in all of Europe.

I (Natalie) visited in the Fall of 2021 with my family. I have a great uncle who lives there, and my parents, my sister, my niece, and I visited him and this beautiful city. We started the day by taking the train from Brussels to Antwerp to meet my great-uncle at a cafe for some delicious coffee and treats. The station in Antwerp is one of the most unique and beautiful in the country! My great-uncle took us all around! 

We walked around the main square, but we stayed pretty much in the same area, aside from when we went to walk along the river for a little bit. The weather was frigid that day! We stayed for a short time, but it was fun to see such a historic city, meet my great-uncle, and spend time with him. It was fun to see how similar he was to my grandma, and he and my dad enjoyed speaking in Dutch with each other, although his English is excellent! That's the case for most of the Dutch and Flemish people. 

Antwerp is one of the oldest cities in Belgium and is known for its stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine! Lots of good Flemish dishes to be had. Including Flemish stew! We ate lunch at a restaurant near the Cathedral of Our Lady, which we spent a while touring. The cathedral was built in 1352! 

The cultural scene in Antwerp is vibrant and alive. The city is home to numerous festivals and events throughout the year that celebrate the art and culture of the city. Visitors can explore the city's many art galleries, music venues, and theaters. Antwerp is also home to some of the best restaurants in Belgium. Whether you're looking for traditional Belgian dishes or something more exotic, Antwerp has something for everyone.

Antwerp is also a great place to shop. The city is home to numerous high-end boutiques, designer stores, and unique shops. Shopping in Antwerp is a great way to get a feel for the city and experience the local culture.

Fun WW2 fact: Antwerp is a deep-water inland port close to Germany. It is connected to the North Sea via the river Scheldt, allowing ocean-going ships to be passed. Following the destruction of Rotterdam in 1940, Antwerp was the largest surviving port in Western Europe and the obvious choice to support an invasion of Germany - helping the Allied powers win the war! 

Whether you're looking to explore the city's history and culture, enjoy the vibrant nightlife, or shop till you drop, Antwerp is the perfect destination. So don't miss out on the chance to visit this amazing city!

The Travel Brats partner with Carly Konsker, host of the podcast When in Robes, to talk about travel, hotels, robes, chicken fingers, and so much more! She tells us about herself and about her own podcast in this episode. This is the first interview and collaboration with Carly, with more to come! 

If you’re looking for a fantastic theater experience in Southwest Florida, the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall in Fort Myers is the place to go. As one of Southwest Florida’s most popular and well-known performance halls, the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall is an impressive 2,700-seat venue. 

The Mann Hall is a premier performing arts venue from Broadway musicals to iconic musicians. The Mann Hall opened its doors in 1990, quickly becoming vital to Fort Myers’ cultural scene. Since then, some of the biggest names in the entertainment world have come to grace its stage. From Cher to Bob Dylan, Mann Hall has welcomed them all. It’s also known for hosting Broadway Musical series that have included some of the most beloved shows, like The Lion King, Wicked, and The Book of Mormon. The Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall has something for everyone, no matter what type of show you’re into. Concerts, comedy, dance, opera, and the symphony are all regular fixtures of the Mann Hall lineup. There’s also a variety of educational programs designed to engage the community’s youth through the power of performing arts. Additionally, the theatre offers a lobby atrium, VIP seating, and other cozy, intimate seating sections, and access to the backstage VIP greenroom where artists can relax and prepare for their shows. 

The Mann Hall is also a popular venue for larger events. From corporate gatherings to elaborate weddings, the theater is known for providing an elegant and sophisticated atmosphere. With an experienced staff dedicated to providing a memorable experience, Mann Hall has cemented its place as one of Southwest Florida’s premier performing arts venues. Whether you’re planning a night out with friends or family while on vacation, the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall is the perfect place to enjoy a musical and theatrical performance. With its modern features and excellent shows, you can have an unforgettable experience that you won’t forget.

Upcoming shows: https://www.bbmannpah.com/events

Broadway Series: https://www.bbmannpah.com/events/23-24-fifth-third-bank-broadway-series

• Fried Chicken
  • Fancy’s - Fort Myers
• Chocolate
  • Norman Love - Naples and all over Southwest Florida
  • Olde Naples Chocolate - Naples
  • Kilwins - All Over
• Burgers
  • Jimmy P’s - Bonita & Naples
  • Fat Katz Sports Bistro - Fort Myers
• Hot Dogs
  • Schnapper’s Hots - Sanibel
  • Matt’s Red Hots - Fort Myers 
    • Get their hot dogs from Buffalo NY
    • Great Bratwurst as well
    • Great Smash Burgers too
  • The Wurst Schnitzel Truck - Pop-Up Food Truck
    • At Shift Coffee every second Sunday of the month 
    • Crazy Flavors
      • Korean Hot Dog 
      • Pad Thai Hot Dog
      • Korean BBQ Hot Dog

If you're looking for a unique night out in Fort Myers, Florida, then be sure to check out one of the city's newest professional theaters - Players Circle Theater (PCT). The Players Circle Theater is a modern, intimate theater that offers engaging entertainment for all. The theater is run by husband and wife team Robert and Carrie Cacioppo, and is newly located in the Heart of the McGregor Corridor. Next to SPADA, First Watch, Golden Rind, Norman Love & Melting Pot. It was formerly located at The Shell Factory in North Fort Myers, and that’s the location where our very own Travel Brat Natalie has performed in over 10 shows in the last 4 years. The theater has been called “the hidden gem of Southwest Florida” for its innovative programming and commitment to quality arts. 

Players Circle Theater hosts a variety of theatrical productions and events throughout the year. From musicals and concerts and comedies to dramas and farces, you can find a show for everyone. Shows are put on from October to May each year, with a few months off during the summertime.

If you’re looking for a great night out in Fort Myers, Players Circle Theater offers a wonderful experience for all ages. Its cozy atmosphere and affordable prices make Players Circle Theater a great place to enjoy a night of incredible performances and entertainment. So why not grab a seat at the Players Circle Theater and come and explore the hidden gem of Southwest Florida! 

Happy Travel Brat Trivia Tuesday! Sofia and Natalie test each other's trivia knowledge with some questions about the world. If they get it wrong, they get to wack each other with little stuffed burritos. Enjoy the fun and see if you know any of the answers!

For those couples looking for a wedding with plenty of activities, Estes Park is perfect! With abundant outdoor activities, your wedding party can come together in nature's finest playgrounds. Estes Park has something for everyone, from hiking trails and backcountry camping to golf courses and ski slopes. 

With Rocky Mountain National Park only a ten-minute drive from Estes, the bride, groom, and all their guests have time to explore. The park has hiking trails; if you want to avoid hiking, you can drive through the entire park! Some of my favorite animals in the park are foxes, mule deer, big horned sheep, elk, rocky mountain elk, moose, coyote, mountain Lion, black bears, and yellow-bellied marmot.

When it comes to breathtaking scenery, Estes Park has a rocky mountain backdrop that is perfect for your big day. Whether you host your wedding outdoors or inside one of the Park's many luxurious venues, the area's stunning natural beauty will be hard to miss. I recommend staying in the Black Canyon Inn, which has the best view of the Estes Valley and surrounding mountains, or the historic Stanley Hotel, where the shining was filmed. The Stanley also has Spirited Night Tours and delicious food at their Cascades Restaurant & Lounge and The Post Chicken & Beer bar. The Cascades whiskey bar has fantastic drinks and some of the best lamb lobster bisk I have ever tasted! The post is a top-notch spot for brunch after a wedding, and it also has dinner and excellent hot chicken. 

Other top-notch breakfast, brunch, and lunch spots are Notch Top Bakery & Cafe, Mountain Home Cafe, The Egg of Estes, Kind Coffee, and the Big Horn Restaurant.

Notch Top Bakery & Cafe is located in Stanley Village Shopping Center. It is usually crowded but has excellent food and pretty decor. Mountain Home Cafe is also located in the Stanley Village Shopping Center but has a more casual atmosphere. The Egg of Estes is located in downtown Estes. It is diner-style with a relaxed atmosphere. I enjoyed it so much that I returned several times on our trip. Kind Coffee is located at the beginning of downtown Estes. Parking is a bit difficult here, but it is excellent for a quick breakfast. They have great Coffee, bagels, and burritos. Big Horn Restaurant is located at the end of Main Street and has a casual atmosphere. 

The shopping and dining in Estes Park offer a surprising variety for a small town. From local boutiques and antique stores to incredible restaurants and dining experiences, there's something for everyone. My favorite store was The Christmas Shoppe where my husband and I found some memorable gifts for the whole family.

For dinner, stop at the Dunraven or Bird and Jim. The Dunraven has a beautiful lake view in the valley of Estes, and The Birds Nest is a great rehearsal dinner spot. By day, it’s only a coffee shop, but the second floor is a beautiful event space.  Food is catered by the first-class restaurant across the street called Bird and Jim. If you are looking for a chill brewery for a meet and greet or to hang with friends, check out The Barrel or The Wheel Bar. 

Whatever you're looking for, whether it's gifts for your wedding party or the perfect dress for your big day, Estes Park has it all! With its natural beauty, abundant activities, and countless shopping and dining options, Estes Park is the perfect destination for your wedding this season. Whether planning an extravagant affair or a cozy gathering of family and friends, Estes Park will surely provide unforgettable memories on your special day. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Estes Park wedding today!