The Rain in Spain. How About Italy? November 21,2006

This morning we took the water bus from Rialto to Ferrovia to catch the train to Florence where we will spend the next four days. Our train was on time and we were soon rolling through what we assumed was flat countryside. We assumed this because the fog limited our view to about a half a kilometer. In between the towns we were passing through farm land that looked to consist mainly of orchards and fields planted with wheat or hay. At one point the fog lifted for a short while affording us a broader view but after being in the Alps it was not inspiring although the scenes were peaceful. Rain greeted us as we came out a rather long tunnel and that set the stage for the remainder of the day.

We arrived in Florence and before heading to the hotel pack covers went on and umbrellas were deployed. The pension where we are staying is not far from the train station but the combination of rain and construction work in the area made the small side street where it is located somewhat difficult to find. What we found was a small Spartan inn but with proprietors that are friendly and helpful.

After settling in we were back in the weather; first for lunch and then a twenty minute walk to find the tourist information office. We have several things to do here and we used this afternoon to get our bearings and line out our itinerary for the next few days. Our return route was along the Fiume Arno (Arno River) which took us to the Ponte Vecchio, the famous bridge here, which is impressive even in the pouring rain. Holly took a picture of the famous causeway, but we will try to get another shot if the weather clears.

It is hard to complain after all of the good weather we have enjoyed during this trip but with the architecture to see here in Italy we hope the weather gods will smile upon us again. Maybe the mosquito sacrifice Holly made in the shower this evening will please the gods and they will allow the sun to shine once more.