Catholic Travel Today

02/22/2025

Venice is prepping for Carnival. This year the Venetian Carnival is dedicated to the legendary libertine and adventurer Giacomo Casanova.

Carnivals and the fasting period of Lent are closely connected in many Christian traditions. This is a festive season that precedes Lent. Known for its exuberance and celebration, carnival involves parades, dancing, music, and often masked balls. It serves as a time of indulgence and enjoyment before the more somber period of Lent.

Lent is a 40-day period of fasting, prayer, and penance observed by Christians, leading up to Easter Sunday. It commemorates the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the desert and is a time for spiritual reflection and self-discipline.

Carnival often concludes on "Mardi Gras" or "Shrove Tuesday," the day before Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of Lent. The timing allows for celebration and indulgence before the fasting and abstinence of Lent begin.

This tradition is especially prominent in cultures where religion plays a central role, blending festivity with spiritual observance.

02/21/2025

Mystical Assisi meets West Sedgwick County Kansas. Dinner, relaxed afternoon, plus late night pitch card game in the bar.

02/21/2025

A mystical foggy morning in Assisi!

02/20/2025

St. Mark's Basilica in Venice, Italy, houses the relics of St. Mark the Evangelist, is a stunning architectural masterpiece renowned for its opulent design and intricate details. The basilica's facade is adorned with ornate marble columns, gilded mosaics, and elaborate sculptures that capture the essence of Byzantine and Gothic styles. Its iconic golden horses, said to be looted from Constantinople, stand proudly above the entrance.

Inside, the basilica's interior is equally breathtaking, with its high ceilings adorned with golden mosaics depicting biblical scenes, saints, and allegorical figures. The floors are a mosaic of intricate geometric patterns, crafted from colorful marbles and stones. The main altar is a masterpiece itself, decorated with precious stones and surrounded by a series of ornate columns.

The basilica's iconic domes are topped with gold and painted with frescoes that add to the overall splendor. Visitors often marvel at the Pala d'Oro, a stunning altarpiece made of gold, enamel, and precious gems. St. Mark's Basilica is not just a place of worship but also a symbol of Venice's rich history and grandiosity, making it a must-see landmark for anyone traveling to this magical city.

02/19/2025

There is something about “David”.

02/14/2025

I’ve been checking out Rome hotels - your thoughts on this hotel with a panaramic rooftop view….

02/12/2025

Papal audience- the universal church ignited! 🙏🔥🙏🔥

02/11/2025

02/10/2025

Incredible day on our pilgrimage journey.

02/07/2025

It’s a perfect February day in Rome!

01/28/2025

Travel Alert
Looking to return to the Holy Land?
Just like Europe, Important Travel Reminder
Please be reminded that all travelers must now obtain an ETA-IL entry permit before boarding their flight to Israel. To avoid any issues, ensure you use the official Ministry of Interior website. The correct fee is 25 NIS - if you see a higher amount, you may be on an unofficial site.
As we look forward to welcoming you back to the Land of the Bible, we continue to trust in God's protection and guidance. Your prayers and support during these times have been a source of strength for all of us.

01/11/2025

01/02/2025

This is the beginning of the European Travel Authorization program. As early as May this will be required for travel in Italy and other countries.

Beginning January 8, 2025, U.S. passport holders traveling to the United Kingdom will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before enter