Siena

Thursday, 7 July

I had been reading the night before and on waking at around 6.30am the first thought that popped into my head was that we were going to receive a nice hefty fine for driving in Siena's ZTL (limited traffic zone). Jumped online and with a sinking feeling I realised that was probably the case. DAMN.

Checked out of our Villa, said our farewells and jumped back into the car to return it to Siena. Went into the same parking area (just outside the zone) and just took it REAL easy for the rest of the day. Wandering aimlessly through the lovely streets of Siena. Could not believe the difference at Il Campo where the Palio had run just days before. Such a big square.

We really only took in one site in Siena and that was the Cathedral. Churches are just littered everywhere in almost every place in Italy but this is one not to be missed. Possibly one of the most amazing interiors I have every seen. There are marble inlays and mosaics all over the floor (whereas normally you would see these on the ceiling). The interior columns were alternating strips of white and black marble with the roof a deep blue and covered with stars. Truly amazing. In a side chapel there was a display of music books that would have to have been almost a metre high and the walls were covered with fantastic frescoes. Loved it loved it loved it.

Back to the car and we made it all the way back to the Avis without a single dent, scratch or mishap (unless you count the more than likely ZTL fine). Kissed Guiseppe goodbye and it was onto the train to Venice. The first leg was excruiatingly hot in the train ... the air-con was not working for a good proportion of the 1.5 hour trip to Florence - even the locals were complaining (always a good sign that you're not merely a wimpy tourist). Second half to Venice much better as we were in first class on the fast train. Nice. Even free wine/drinks and nibblies.

Arrived in Venice about 9.30pm and Bobbie was soooo excited. We only had to turn left out of the train station and walk about 5 minutes to our hotel which was good. These bags are too heavy to try and get onto a boat! Hotel Principe is nice .. we have a little step onto terrace and AIR-CONDITIONING. bliss. When the porter opened up our window with the Grand Canal below I thought Bobbie was going to plant a kiss on him - she was jumping up and down with excitement.

Now ... I wonder how I will go with shopping here ... will I blow the carry on baggage limit here?