The Italian Riviera

Experience 21. A Day by the Sea. Cinque Terra. 15 June.

Sunshine and temp in the mid 30's was perfect for cruising on the Mediterranean Sea and that is just what we did today. From La Spezia we cruised past some Italian Navy ships heading out towards the open sea. The heat of the day was soon forgotten as the cooler sea air surrounded us. We stopped at two of the five towns that make up the five lands (Cinque Terre). Firstly, Porte Venere where we were treated to drop jaw views from every angle, once you took the gradual climb to the church ruins on the point which was right at the entrance to the sea. A further gradual climb to the ruins of a fortress then it was down down down much steeper steps. Glad we didn't take the steep climb option, we headed for some of the local focaccia made from chick pea flour which was Porto Veneres specialty. Yum yum.

From there it was on to Monterosso, a few stops along the way picking up many more passengers and many photos later. A photographers dream with steep hills to the shores filled with colored houses in the shades of pinks yellows and blue. Azzure blue waters which looked oh so tempting. Unfortunately we didn't have our bathers so had to settle for getting our feet wet in the crystal waters of the pebbly beach. Only parts of the beach are free to enjoy here the rest you have to pay to use. Mind you, you do get a sun lounge! Beach umbrella and a private change room when you pay for this privilege. Later on our trip when we are on the coast in Amalfi we will make sure we take our swimmers.

Experience 22. Turkey and sparklers. Montecatini Terme. 15 June.

Tonight we were treated to a Gala Dinner. The highlight was the main course of roast turkey. Prior to being carved and served as our dinner, the whole rosted bird of enormous proportions was paraded around the dining room with sparklers ablaze like a birthday cak. Never seen that before. Definitely a new experience.