Roma / Firenze

I remember when I read Bill Bryson's book that he said that when he was in Rome he walked for a week. I don't remember him saying anything about wrecked hips, knees and other joints! Perhaps I conveniently overlooked that? didn't do the hop on/off tour as I realised that I had walked a fair amount of it quite early in the week. Found my way round relatively easily - and worked out the difference between piazzas and palazzos which helped when reading the guides. so - many more cathedrals, basilicas, (including that of Santa Cecilia) monuments, fountains, bridges, galleries, ruins etc. Joined a guided tour of the Vatican. Wanted to go back into the museums - but wasn't allowed - may email the Pope as I think that was a bit unchristian. E14 shd allow you in as many times as you want in the one day surely?

On the Saturday there wa a huge protest march - at first I thouught they were just going round and around the Colloseum - but no - thousands of people everywhere waving green & red flags. Something to do with democracy and saving Italy, I think.

The Vatican guide had told us that the Pope was saying Mass in St Peters on the Sunday - but to be there early. Since he (the Pope) had gone to the effort of doing that while I was in Rome, I decided that I should at least make the effort of being there too. Especially as he had organised an extra hours sleep to make sure I had time to get there (change to Winter time). So then waited for his speech at midday as well. Was going to climb the Dome but most of Rome had the same idea that day so that has to go back on the list on things to do next visit.

So Monday - left big suitcase in Roma and climbed on the train again for Florence. and yes - walked....duomos, museums, frescos, galleries.... My favourite art works are definitely those with lots of gold and royal to dark blue with some red.

So was feeling a bit ODed on culture. Apparently its a common complaint in Florence- dizzy spells from sensory overload.

Up to this point I hadn't got excited about shopping.... but I think Florence is the town where that could very easily change. What a shame about the exchange rate. My humble hotel is opposite Prada, next to Armani, and all the big names. At least I know not to even look in there!

The cold snap currently sweeping across Europe has given Florence some rain and is much colder. hopefully won't last too long as want to walk some of the Tuscany countryside.