Hello all

A quick update to let you know where we are - after 2 nights at a hotel in Palermo in Sicily we have driven up through the amalfi coast and are now in sorrento for a few nights before we head to our next house sit in Perugia.

We had an 'experience' with the new mafia in Sicily - having parked the car in a side street for free we were approached by a guy wanting a euro for his no-help in parking the car - James paid him and then an hour later we popped back to the car and another guy wanted a euro so we ignored him - at our peril and found the car had a key scratch the next day. Should have paid the protection money ! It's not too bad and should come out ok when we come back - poor ol' golf :(

The amalfi coast was lovely to drive although I imagine its much prettier in the summer but a lot more packed too. We have a huge apartment in sorrento with kitchen so are cooking for ourselves. Our balcony overlooks both the sea and mount Vesuvius.

Today we went to Pompeii - to be honest we were a bit disappointed - a lot has been badly reconstructed and many areas were spoilt by red and white keep out tape and signs however the gladiator arena was stunning - pictures to follow when we have better wifi.

Love to all x x