Reminiscing....
This was our first morning in Tuscany. I only slept a few hours after we arrived, because I wanted to see the sunrise. I honestly couldn't take in the reality of this place. I'd never seen anything so beautiful.
This was several days into the trip. I woke up early one morning, and took a walk by myself. I walked up this road for over a mile, with red poppies to my right, along with the grapes. There were dogs to the left, guarding a house. They barked at me as I walked by.
This was my favorite view. I stood here each day, trying to memorize everything.
Comments
As much as I loved Tuscany, I loved Venice more. :-)
As for Italy, I've never been. I used to think that I wanted to visit, but not so much anymore.
I miss plays performed at the Monsanto Vineyards in Santa Clara... they used to do Shakespeare and wine tastings in the evenings.
I'm afraid I wouldn't understand Shakespeare AT ALL if there was wine involved. ;-)
What changed your mind about Italy?
Not checking a bag next time. One carry-on and a backpack!
The passages of Rousseau's "Emile" on the purpose for travel set very well with me... especially as they largely mirrored my own. And "Europe" was a place my ancestors "fled". The only aspirations for European travel that I haven't completely abandoned are a sea tour of the Aegean, with a stop in Piraeus. But that would be a reward best savoured post-retirement with a clear head. ;)
---
Of course! They were saving you money! Two trips for one airfare, makes sense to me. ;-)
...I feel a George Carlin quote coming on.... ;-)
How are you? Yes, I drank Chianti in Toscana. It was goooood. We walked at least eight miles a day and I still managed to gain a few lbs. :p