Thoughts on Italy

We had never really planned much out for Italy, other than knowing we would fly out of Rome on June 19, and hoped to spend a few days there prior. We also wanted to spend a few days in the Cinque Terre, which is part of the Italian Riviera, but that didn't work out as the 10 or so places we called were all booked for the Saturday we wanted to arrive. So it was off to Venice, which, I must say, pleasantly surprised me. It is such a unique place with the water going right up to the foundations of buildings, and water travel the primary form of transportation. The streets are a hopeless jumbled maze, but there are some markings for popular sites, so you can eventually find your way. Florence was ok, more of a typical hectic Italian city I suppose, though most of our full day there was spent in museums. There were some great views of the surrounding countryside from the bell tower, though. Oh, and we stayed in this 4 room place that a little sweet old Italian lady rents out. Recommended by Rick Steves! Rome is hectic as well, and so far its sweltering here. The Colosseum and Roman Forum were sites to behold, and I'm sure the Sistine Chapel will impress. The scooters in Florence and Rome are like the bikes in Amsterdam; they just keep going at intersections and you just have to be on your toes all the time near streets. The gelato is delicious. It seems so much lighter and healthier than ice cream, though I'm sure it's really not that great for you. Anyway, our Italian destinations have been a nice addition to the journey...!