Two years and three months. More than 820 days. I will spare us all the hour and minute equivalencies, but suffice it to say it's been a little while since our last transatlantic trip.

In 2015, we indulged in two trips in the Atlantic: one long weekend in St. Kitts and a 7-day cruise that started in San Juan, Puerto Rico and sailed to five Caribbean locations: St. Thomas, Dominica, Barbardos, St. Kitts (and Nevis), and St. Marteen. This is not to imply that those trips were not blog-worthy, but our adventures encompassed more natural adventures rather than historical, spiritual, or cultural experiences.

That's why, when one of Mark's many travel alerts notified him about an unbelievable travel opportunity to Italy (Charlotte to Rome, nonstop!) -- it took less than an hour to decide to book our flights.

The impetus to travel is not to "get away" from our lives or boredom with city in which we live, but to enhance our understanding of the larger world outside our comfort zone. We have a list of places we hope to one day visit and, as opportunities present themselves, we decide if the timing is right for us. There is understandably a financial component tied in to traveling -- but by searching for the best deals, using points collected through frequent travel and credit card programs, we are able to make the most of your travel goals.

As we set out on this adventure, we set our intentions on discovering as much as we can about Italy -- both what is was 2,000 years ago and how the country operates today. Mark selected Rome, Venice, Florence, and Amalfi Coast as our destinations -- as tickets are needed for some of the historical sights, we do have a loose schedule -- but really we have planned to be spontaneous. Because we are both naturally inclined to make lists and establish minimum expectations, we of course have some goals in mind for the trip, but really we are looking forward to seeing what there is to see...so Italia here we come.