Italian Cheers.

Turin, Italy was a lot about drinks.

From Bellinis

From Bellinis

to pudding-thick world famous {but not Allison's favorite} hot chocolate

to coffees

to champagne

to Italian wines,

we definitely didn't dehydrate in this city.

Museo Egizio Di Torino...Not Just for Mummies.

So, for the record, I never really expected an Egyptian museum to be in Italy. But, I am really glad it was, and came highly recommended, because it was not only super interesting and informative, it was also quite pretty.

This museum is dedicated solely to the Egyptians art and culture. The 7.50 euro admission allows visitors to see a breathtakingly beautiful statue hall, the tomb of Kha and Merit, and the artifact floor which reveals much information on the daily life of the ancient Egyptians. If you're the type of person who has a hard time saving the best for last, head to floor 2 first. The marble and stone statues are illuminated by bright white lights causing them to shine against the mirrors and dark walls. I think it was one of the prettiest rooms I've ever stood in.

Plan on perusing the museum for about 2 hours. I would recommend for kids aged above 8 -- there's a lot to see and a lot to read, but no hands on activities.

And teachers, bring proof of teaching identification because the museum offers an educator's discount making the admission fee only 3.50 euro.

Hotel Dock Milano.

This Turin hotel is conveniently located across the street from the train station and offered excellent accommodations for 3 people -- one double bed and one twinzie.

Accommodations include a large continental breakfast with an espresso machine {my personal highlight of the meal} and balcony rooms. Request one -- the view is breathtaking.

Christmas in Turino.

Magical. Beautiful. Totally Italian.

We concert hopped between beautiful Christian churches playing music.

Cafe hopped to taste a variety of Italian drinks, coffees, and sandwiches that seem to come with drinks ordered at the banco.

Attended a Catholic Mass where Cathy was asked to do a reading and we somehow missed communion.

Went to a 4 course dinner at C'era Una Volta where we were greeted with glasses of chilled champagne. The dinner was delicious -- they even catered to Mr. Umbrella's vegetarian needs -- and it was very well priced. For budget travelers, we recommend the house wine -- it was only 9 euro for a bottle, and our table's consensus was that it actually tasted better than our more expensive bottle. {I mean you know we had more than one.}