One Final Hurrah!

Our final day here in Italy has been a full one! Full of some final touring, some final shopping, lots of sunshine, and lots of standing in line!
We began this morning with crossing the Tiber River to visit Vatican City. Did you know that Vatican City is the smallest country in world? It also has the lowest birth rate, zero (only males live there).
As we approached the walled city/country we encountered thousands and thousands of people with the same goal as us, to visit the infamous location. We found our way to the end of the line where we then proceeded to wait, and wait...and wait...and wait (and I could probably add a few more) for 4 HOURS!! That is right 4 HOURS!! However spirits were never low as we sang and entertained the crowed around us, for 4 HOURS. Oh, and it was 30c with no shade, for 4 HOURS.
The long wait, 4 HOURS, was well worth it as we were able to experience the opportunity of a lifetime and visit the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter Basilica and the Vatican Museum.
After a wonderful farewell dinner we had some final time to enjoy the sights and shopping that Rome has to offer. This was followed by the most touching performance of the tour. As we gathered outside of the Pantheon the students decided to sing one last farewell song. As they began to perform "Agnus Dei" the crowds seemed to come from all sides of the square. Hundreds of people came running to listen and a few even found themselves so moved that they decided to record and take pictures. As the crowds continued to gather the choir ended with "Mary Did You Know". The sound was phenominal and the music touching. It is sure that this was an experience that the students will remember for a lifetime.
As much as we loved our time here in Italy, we are excited to be heading home tomorrow. Please think of us as we travel. Can't wait to see you all!!
Oh, by the way, did I mention that we waited 4 HOURS to get into the Vatican.

Story of The Day
To protect the reputation of those involved, no names will be mentioned in the writing of this "story".
As we entered the Vatican today we passed through revolving doors of the Vatican entrance and one student mentioned that the security looked like the same at the airport. When another student heard this, they questioned why they were at the airport and not the Vatican...it's true.

While in the line for the Vatican, many students were able to learn from Mr. Rabjohn that the bricks that form the wall of the Vatican were actually named 'Vati', the latin word for hard surface and the concrete that kept the bricks together were named 'Canne' after the area in Italy where the sand was found. Thus, the name Vaticanne or Vatican came into being. We kept this going for about an hour (of the FOUR hours, did we mention that) until we had to let them in on the joke.

Final Note on the Final Night
As we type this blog tonight all the students have gathered together in their various rooms with their new found friends, love for one another and reminiscing about their adventures in Italy. The growth that this group of young people have shown during this tour has been a pleasure to watch. It has been an honour to be here in Italy with them, these memories will last for a lifetime!
Mr. Bronson

When in Rome...

Today found us celebrating the Roman Labour Day.
We were able to enjoy a guided walking tour under beautiful weather conditions, 28c and sunny!!
It has been said that Rome is like lasagna, if you dig down you will find many layers of history hidden beneath. The tour started with an outside view of the Colosseum and then took us throughout the streets of old Rome. All day we were surrounded by spectacular castles, columns, ruins and sculptures. It seems that with every corner you turn there is something new, exciting and huge waiting to be discovered! It is hard to believe that there are archaeologists still unearthing new historical finds.
After lunch the Chamber Choir had their final Italian performance in the beautiful Santa Maria dei Miracoli. The performance was breathtaking. The church was packed with standing room only intently watching and listening. Even fellow Canadians now living in Italy took time to come out and later chat with the students. We have some stunning photos which we will hopefully post soon.
This evening we were able to attend a performance of the Italian opera Tosca. It was unlike any performance we have experienced. I'm sure the students will fill you in on the details.
Well, we'll keep this one short as today has been a long hot one. Tomorrow we are off to see the inside of the Colusseum and Vatican City. Until then...

P.S.
We all wish Sam Sliva all the best at her volleyball games!! We miss you!

Story of The Day
While exploring thousands of years of history we found ourselves at the Roman capital buildings. While the students were to be taking in the stunning view of the city, they actually found themselves taking in a view of another kind. To their shock and suprise Nick Carter of the Backstreet Boys was standing within 10 feet of the group enjoying the same view. Needless to say cameras and attention were turned in a different direction!!