FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Pompeii

by Akhil Kalepu

Jan 13, 2015

© Edward Mack

History
Weeping cast © Edward Mack

© Edward Mack

Nothing much has changed in the Roman city of Pompeii over the past 2,000 years or so. Except, being covered in ash, dust and lava, preserved nearlyperfectly, and uncovered by archeologists decades later. Visitors to the UNESCO World Heritage site today can get a glimpse unlike no other into what life was like in 79 AD.

 

Walking the stone streets of Pompeii, visiting its houses and temples, its forum and amphitheater, is like stepping back into the past — an eerily quiet past filled with ghosts. Around the site, visitors will find plaster casts of citizens who were buried in the volcanic eruption, mosaics, frescos and statues. They can walk through Roman houses preserved as though their occupants had just stepped out to borrow a cup of flour from the neighbors.

 

© Edward Mack

© Edward Mack

One of Italy’s most popular tourist destinations, Pompeii receives more than 2.5 million visitors a year, making it a challenge to protect and preserve the site. Italy has undertaken a $145 million restoration project to restore the site and preserve it from future decay.

 

The ruins are easily accessible from Naples and Rome, being a 45-minute train ride from the former and a slightly longer trip from the latter. Trains between Naples and Pompeii are crowded, dirty and often off-schedule, but the discomfort is worthwhile to visit the ruined city with the ill-tempered Mt. Vesuvius looming in the background.

 

The active volcano also presents a worthwhile endeavor — a panoramic of Pompeii, Naples and its bay rewards hikers. Mt. Vesuvius remains active, begging the question of whether it is only a matter of time before it erupts again, threatening the 3 million nearby residents with a second Pompeii.

 

As an alternative to Pompeii, consider visiting Herculaneum, a nearby town likewise preserved by the eruption.

 

#TrazeeTravel

Insta Feed
Hotel
Dec 19, 2024

4 Hotels to Stay at for 2025 Sporting Events

Diehard sports fans often travel near and far to watch their favorite teams. With plenty of exciting sporting events taking place in 2025, these hotels offer a respite for sports fanatics after the events.

Madrid: The Charm of an Authentic City

They say Madrid is in vogue for many reasons: its lifestyle, its heritage, its cuisine and all of its new attractions. And it’s true, because Madrid is on the radar of travelers looking for a cutting-edge destination that still holds onto its essence. Join us as we explore its charms.

Hotel
Dec 19, 2024

Postcard Cabins Brand Now Part of Marriott

More than 1,200 glamping cabins recently joined Marriott in an acquisition set to bring more travelers closer to nature. Postcard Cabins, formerly Getaway, was founded in 2015 with the mission to bring free time in nature to more people.

Destinations / Europe
Dec 18, 2024

Why You Should Visit Florence in January

Ready to book your first 2025 getaway? Consider Florence, Italy, for two can’t-miss events in January.

Seoul: Your Favorite Worldwide City

Seoul is the place for your next bleisure destination.

Hotel
Dec 18, 2024

Brookmere Debuts Today in Saratoga Springs, New York

Brookmere debuts today in Saratoga Springs, New York, for its soft opening. Situated on 10 acres near many of Saratoga Springs’ iconic attractions, this property boasts 88 guestrooms and suites alongside a host of well-appointed amenities.