Santa Chiara

Sandi, funny about the bread crumbs. Another no-no is never, ever change your shoes in front of anyone. And this is from the country with thong bikinis on primetime TV and men constantly adjusting their privates on the sidewalk. <BR><BR>I wear my Clark sandals to and from work, and standing at the stoplight, women next to me have, if not audibly gasped, raised their eyebrows or curled their lips.

gaye

I also was surprised at the lack of smoke in Italy. Yes, we were outside most of the time but honestly I did not notice it at all. And this is from someone in smoke sensitive Colorado. Venice had the most smokers and there were butts everywhere. I also think the Italians know a trick about how to get rid of the smoke smell because we never noticed it in any of our hotel rooms or lobbies for that matter.<BR>I also would never drive in a city there, but it was fun to ride in the taxis. They are efficient drivers but there are no rules.

Laura

Capo, did you by any chance stop at the Badia di Coltibuono? We were there a few years ago and took the tour but didn't get a chance to dine at the Villa Table, Lorenza di Medici's restaurant there. I've been wondering what we missed ever since. <BR>Great trip report, Jim. I am a confident driver and did fine throughout the Tuscan hills, but white knuckled it through Rome. It's like driving amidst a swarm of crazed killer bees. Plus, I'm used to a Suburban, and the Opal we rented felt like the Clown Car! Contrast is everything..

Dayle

Laura,<BR><BR>We had lunch at Coltibuono a couple years ago & it was fabulous. Lovely shaded terrace with views of the Chianti hills (quite mountainous). Then took the tour of the winery & cellars. Gardens were so nice, I wanted to live there.....