I'm convinced that the extremely effective and efficient train network is the way to go in Italy! The train from Siena was so easy to catch, great seats, place to plug in device and charge up. It was scheduled to leave at 5.43pm. Guess what? It indeed did leave right on 5.43pm. Clean and conditioned! First class seats only €36 and there were some tickets for less than €20. But, hey, the journey is just under 3 hours so I ain't sardine-ing it! Suppose the only...

A gripe first! What chezzes me off with modern day travellers: absolutely rude, inconsiderate f***s that stand in the exact middle point of lanes, walkways, shop doors, entrances and small streets on their devices! It shows a complete, utter and selfish disregard of everything and everyone else! I actually never do this and have always considered others so moves to sides, quiet corners or sit and have a Spritz (as now) out of people's way! I can't fathom where s...

Skies are magical blue and there is a light crisp breeze in the air, mid 20's, one of those perfect, mild Spring days ahead for us! At breakfast it was surreal to have meal where the Monks would have in 12AD! It's so serene and the energy is alive but peaceful. Again, another huge breakfast spread which has complimented every stay in Italy: local cheeses, fresh tomatoes from the actual vines here in the Monastery, crisp pastries, hams and prosciutto as well as fr...

The room in Lucca has shutters which completely block out the sun! It is the absolute best way to sleep! The room becomes completely dark until you actually want to see or feel any inclination to wake up or see light! It's so simple, yet so perfect! Every bedroom should have one! Hell! They are better than any Window furnishings I've ever had! May I also say Robyn has been so strategic and skilled in choosing each of our accommodation points in these Tuscan towns...

My Top 10 "cannot travel without" excludes personal stuff like medication and personal hygiene. Probably contentious but, most of my thoughts are! 10. A pen: you never know when you'll need it, on plane for those cards, quick lists, notes to mates, whatever! 9. Phone Charger (preferably the one I have: multi-destination plug with 2 USBs 8. Hat: most of us gonna be out in sun a lot! 7. Good walking shoes: obviously! 6. Hand wipes: street food, toilets and...