Italian Observations: Time, Illumination, Toilet Paper, Laundry and of course, Garbage Please forgive me in advance; I could be wrong about everything. I have been trying to understand this strange and beautiful country since I first visited Italy in 2004. Even as I write, my arrogance and biases are on display. I have only scratched […]
Before visiting Venice in 2004, I studied guidebooks to learn the Vaporetto routes and the location of the churches and museums. I packed a map with all of the calles, campos and palazzos noted, confident that I’d be able to navigate my way around the city. I had my map, but no idea where I […]
Embraced by the Walls When I decided to spend a month in Lucca, I anticipated periods of loneliness because I hadn’t travelled alone in a decade. Life had gotten somewhat stale and certainly predictable. I yearned to be out of my comfort zone. I wanted to be in a place where I didn’t know anyone so […]
Do you have the time to meander slowly with me? It ‘s only 3.6 miles around the ancient walls. I promise you a great lunch at the finish at Trattoria Guilia. I’m a bit lonely today, so I appreciate your company! But first, are you wearing comfortable shoes? OK, we are ready! Oh, you should have […]
Arrived safely in Lucca I learned that a six-hour layover in Amsterdam is difficult at this stage in my life. Used to be manageable but not anymore. Even though there were tulips! Amsterdam is a “silent” airport but it was so cold and damp. I was shivering and sweating, thinking I was getting sick. When […]