21 March 2011

Double Whammy - Rome & Cortona

Okay so doing a few quick posts about Rome and Cortona didn't happen, so I'll give you a quick update on both... and MAYBE I'll get some pictures on here. Not likely.

Rome
- Busy few days visiting the Vatican, Colosseum, Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain, etc.
- Loved being Mom's "personal tour guide" as I spouted out all my newly acquired knowledge
- Watched as Mom gave up on her celiac diet from time to time to taste pizza, tiramisu, real Italian pasta, etc. She didn't even get sick! NOW watch her try to stick to that silly diet.
- Went for supper in Piazza Navona, and then realized the metro stopped running at 9pm (supper ended around 9:30), and had to walk back to our hostel. Oooohh goody.
- Rented a car...

Renting a car was... interesting. Minimally stressful getting out of Rome. A breeze finding our way to Cortona. Loving having the freedom of a vehicle. More expensive than a train.

Cortona
- Arrived in time to wander the Saturday market
- Then it rained.
- Took Mom around to all my usual stops - the cioccolateria, enoteca (wine shop), leather shop, fruit cave, etc. and introduced her to the shopkeepers
- Lunch at Bar Sport - Pear & Pecorino Salad - YUM!
- Met up with a schoolmate, and made plans for supper
- Helped Mom spend too much money on leather goods - including a duffle bag - hmm shopping time?
- Witnessed Mom parking on a very steep hill - and then successfully starting the car again
- Appetizers at Tuscher cafe with Sangria
- Supper at Mario's - BEST tiramisu around
- CUTEST hotel room. Charming little Victorian style room. Amazing breakfast.
- In the morning we drove out to the monastery - worth having a car on a cold/rainy day!
- Drove to Florence...

Drive to Florence was a breeze. Finding our way into the city... not so much. No map. Got lost. Stupid one way streets and street signs in useless spots. Ready to ditch the car. Found the rental drop off spot... closed on Sundays. Extra 20 euros to drop off outside of office hours. Time for retail therapy.

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