Arrivederci Siena

Our time in Siena is sadly almost over. We were here for less than 24 hours but feel refreshed after getting away from the hustle and bustle of Rome.

Rick Steves (I've embraced him back into the familia like a true Italian would) says it best: "Rome is magnificent and brutal at the same time. But Rome is required, and if your hotel provides a comfortable refuge [it did, way to go Katie!]; if you pace yourself [we did the best we could for 3 days]; if you accept and even partake in the siesta plan [we did not]; if you're well-organized for sightseeing [we are better than when we first started]; and if you protect yourself and your valuables with extra caution and discretion [we did], then you'll do just fine."

We left early this morning from Rome, took a 3 hour bus, and will be leaving early tomorrow for Florence. I thought I was being so well-organized by buying museum tickets to Florence in advance (going off the recommendation of RS); however, in my organization, I overlooked the minor detail that tomorrow is when we are supposed to ARRIVE in Florence and booked our Accademia (where the statue of David is) for 8:45. Needless to say, we will be catching a VERY early bus to make it in time and will probably need that siesta tomorrow.

Siena has been such a nice breath of fresh area, so we are hoping Florence will follow that trend. Rome reminded me a lot of New York - huge, dirty, loud, exciting. It was fun to explore but not hard to leave. Siena has been a good break for our tired feet and the wine tour was exactly what we needed. Everyone we have met so far have been really friendly, and we are looking forward to meeting up with our George Michael lovin', Irish dancing Aussie roomie from Rome in Florence tomorrow night for dinner.

Catch up with everyone in Florence!
tracy