We are here... Firenze! Finalmente (finally). A car ride to the airport courtesy of oldest son Cameron, 2 plane rides of 4 and then 7.5 hour durations, a Regionale train from the airport outside of Roma to the city, and then a high-speed train going 260 kmh into Florence. We hoofed our bags for about a 20 minute walk and then met Michele, the owner of our Airbnb apartment for the next few days outside at ground level. We have a neat apartment on the 4th floor right in the historical part of town, Did I mention 4th floor? No elevator. 62 steps up to our door, and then once you open the door guess what, another 10 steps up to the floor level. And then, if you want to access our very own roof-top terrace, it's just another 10 more steps. I'm tired just thinking about it, but what a view! Well worth it.
Keith and Gaye, our travel mates, are arriving around 10 pm. I'll meet them down on the street and bring them lots of water for the hike up. It's important to stay hydrated.

After Beth and I rested a bit we headed down our narrow cobble stone street to a restaurant that Michelle recommended. We were there a bit early for normal Italian dining time, it was around 6:30 but we were famished. I got to practise my Italian with the owner (thanks to Novella, my Italian tutor in Victoria). It was fantastico! See attached pics for the details. He asked if we wanted the English menu and I scoffed and said "no grazie, posso avere il menu Italiano per favore?" And sure enough that's what showed up. Even if you're not entirely sure what you're ordering, who cares!! You know it's gonna be good.

Signing off for now, too tired to type. Planning to explore Florence tomorrow and walk off the jet lag.

Ciao