1. I find out that the Italian firefighters are actually called "guardians of the fire" ("vigili del fuoco") and toys are sold in places called "Bimbo". How not to love Italy?
2. I listen to radio and discover that Italians love "rock in translation", which basically involves playing a rock song with a radio person explaining the lyrics in Italian over the music. Bohemian Rhapsody in Italian: Fun!
3. I listen to more radio and discover that the Italian Radio Maria has actually just prayers and religious music, much unlike its Polish namesake. Strange...
4. I realize that the Italian speed bumps are mere suggestions than hindrances to the unrestricted freedom of Italian drivers - some of them so low you could actually drive over them at 80-90kph and still barely notice.
5. I brush my car against two guys cutting me off on a scooter in a supermarket parking lot. They come out of nowhere... I'm terrified, they smile and are pretty nonplussed. We shake hands and go our separate ways...
6. I dive again, this time at Porto Pollo. Corals and gorgonian fans are amazing, lobsters too. But it's cooooold... And I give up after the first dive.
7. I manage to lock my keys in the car. Helpful Philippo from dive shop calls the rental company and after a half hour negotiation they send reinforcements. The copy of the key is in Rome but they can send it over in 2-3 days or break the window, for which I'll pay. Finally the clever roadside assistance guy uses a thieves' method to open the door. Hooray! He charges me €40, which is reasonable but then refuses to give change from €50. Italians.... (I make him, though)
8. I nearly hit a wild pig driving to the hotel at night. Careful!!!