Well, an exciting day with an early start and a very pleasant train trip from Venice to Florence - speed up to 250 kph in places. The amazing thing was that we must have come through at least 50 km of tunnels in the last stretch to Florence. Quite an experience at that speed.
Fortunately I had bought our onward ticket to Assisi while we were waiting in Venice, as the crowds in Florence were massive. We had just over an hours wait for our onward journey. When the train arrived, there was a mad rush to board and these hustlers literally took our bags and put them in the overhead compartment (no mean feat when they weigh over 20+ KGS each. We remonstrated that this was not 1st class and another "one" came along and all 3 said there was no 1stclass. I hopped off and found the conductor who confirmed that 1st class was about 5 carriages down. Rushed back to rescue Vivian & the bags - adrenalin cut in and we just managed to board our correct carriage in time. To make it worse, a beggar of sorts came through our cabin with a note for every seat asking for money - I threw it in the waste bin. He was back 30 seconds later to collect his notes ( no money), so I opened the bin and indicated he should retrieve his note. He did so with the most dagger-eyes you have ever seen. Sorry, but it was not the day for me or him. BTW, he got off at the next stop, before the conductor came around.
More tunnels out of Florence and then great scenery all the way to Assisi. We decided to have a sandwich & coffee at the railway cafe, which was a cafe, pizzeria, bottle store, bar, purveyor of religious items & a casino all rolled into one. Anyway, good coffee & fresh sandwiches. Also bought our bud tickets up to Assisi proper (where we are staying). The bus dropped us off, at what is the end of town, but is actually a good kilometre away from the hotel. A big hike and just as well we had sustenance. Found the hotel, which is really quaint - I think we are on the 4 the floor, as it I's at least 50 steps up. Luckily the manager carried our bags, even though he underestimated the weight. He has promised to carry them down tomorrow too!!!!!!
Our room is the attic and is unique with the shower being between the door & the toilet. Just a couple of shower curtains and a wooden board for drainage. However we also have the terrace at the top of the building with unobstructed views over the surrounding area. We feel that we could stay here for a couple of days, but no, off about 10 tomorrow for our next adventure to Rome & Civitavecchia, to board the little Ocean Princess and start our 48 day journey home.
Have walked through the old city to St Francis Basilica. Absolutely stunning - we did all 3 levels. I commented to Vivian that I thought it surpassed The Vatican in many ways. Fantastic.
Probably time to think about food soon, so hopefully this blog will continue when we get to a "friendly" port.
We are loving your blog. Bringing back wonderful memories of our trip last year. Continue to enjoy. Love val and max
ReplyDeleteWow what an exciting time - love all those photos - but I do hope you put the blanket over Mum's toes when she was sleeping :)
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