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 some people get off! I give anyone permission to slap me hard if they see me do this inconsiderate practice in front of them! And, my uninvited opinion may rear its ugly head! While I'm at it, I now see so clearly why my workplace has banned use of mobiles at desk while services to customers is occurring. It is so rude and looks really unprofessional! I didn't realise until I started traveling in this new era of technology. Once again; beware - Troy's opinion will pop out if deemed necessary. There are no excuses and no correspondence will be entered into! This trip has taught me so many lessons about the development of technology and how, while handy at times (yes, I long for google maps), it's also a curse and the most anti-social activity on this planet. I am so thankful for the amazing lessons I've picked up and know, moving forward, it will change my life, for the better!

...now, to the last day of my Tuscan adventure!

I hurried all around Siena hoping to join a good lovers tour I saw the other day. I went hither and tither and it was not going as there were not enough people! It was €15 and they told me it needed at least 3 persons to run! So, in true troy-style, knowing I was 15,000km from home, and wanted desperately to learn more about Truffles and Olio and, even bread (and vino!) I offered 3 x the price! Her little eyes lit up and she couldn't organise my private tour fast enough! Win - Win I say! This is the classic moment of travel on a whim and feeding your desires and interests. It's magical and momentous in a slightly impromptu way! Just love it. It gets my heart racing; love a good haggle or last minute negotiation!

The tour was great! It consisted of some history and 3 courses: first was a mixture of crossini with delectable toppings. The one I liked best had melted cheese and Siena sausage. There was one with Toscano Olio as well and garlic scrapings. Delicious! This was all washed down with some local Chianti! Denise (my guide and I ) wandered through laneways to more hidden treasures and samples of my favourite TRUFFLES! They are such great value here and grow all year 'round, the most popular being the Summer Truffle! I wish I could take these pastes and sauces home! Following on from here we headed to a local favourite for main course. This consisted of bread soaked in tomato and water. Sounds weird but tastes more-ish! This was complimented by Pici: a homemade pasta, more thick and luxurious (but originally for the peasants!). This was dripping in Pesto sauces which were all home made!

Further wandering brought us to the final stop: biscotti and panne fortes of many flavours...my favourite were figs and then, another new found delight: biscotti dipped (and left to soak) in sweet Italian liquor then devoured, ultimately leaving the amazingly decadent swirl of left over liquor and crumbs to swig as the last and luscious prize! A must for foodies. The original price of €15 is a steal. I didn't feel ripped off at all! Nothing better than one in one customer service! Denise's tip was well deserved!

...just said farewell to Robyn & Mike after our impressive but impromptu lunch of Tuscan bread, Tuscan salami, sliced cheese and olives (all cut fresh from deli for €5.36: 3 Panne). All washed down with 2 local Tuscan beers - and a bottle of Chianti (local) for €4! Just sat on a table in the courtyard of the hotel: cracked it all open, given vino glasses by the staff and just sat for an hour and slowly and deliciously consumed...ah! These are the moments treasured forever!

Goodbye Tuscany.

Back to Roma to see what all the fuss is about!