Well I'm awake, and I have ankles again. Italy is a long way from Australia. Everywhere is a long way from Australia. This is a trip that I have looked forward to for a number of years. There's something about the idea of Italy that I have always loved. And several years ago someone told me of a singing workshop they did in Sienna that was wonderful - since that moment, I was determined to do this one day. Of course the reality never quite matches our plans....

Did a tour of Pompeii today. Very hot (32 degrees) and crowded. The tour guide was interesting but you're always going to feel hampered by the crowd. And it feels rushed, which is ironic given the amount of time spent waiting around. There are of course the traditional souvenir vendors flogging their wares (though in a more restrained fashion than you find in Asia). A Roman gladiator with his wooden sword and plastic armour guarded the parking lot. And there ...