TexasAggie if you are still looking for pictures of Piedmont there is a good selection here: http://www.stayinpiedmont.com/pages/new/pictures.html

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Alison----I also loved the details in your report. If people just wanted generalities they could read a guide book. I, too, think Fodorites like the little details to help make their decisions.

We have been to Lake Como and loved it, but were now thinking of the Cinqu Terre. All of your "details" were a pleasure to read. I'd also like to hear more about Lucca as it is on my list of places to go.

Thanks again for your interesting report.

Excellent report. I was surprised you received some negative feedback. I know I'm embarrassed when my mother packs food from breakfast as a snack for later on. I chide her for it but haven't yet confronted someone I don't know.

For people on a cruise, on the other hand, I don't consider it rude at all to pack up some sandwiches from the breakfast buffet for your self-guided shore excursion.

I liked the detail. I like hearing how you decided on a destination, how it was once you arrived, where you ate, where you stayed and how much it cost. I can decide whether a dinner or hotel sounds worth the price and perhaps look for the place on my next trip.

Air conditioning isn't a big deal for me. I tend to travel outside the hot and crowded summer months. I suspect most of the time, air conditioning wouldn't be that big of deal to you either. When you're in Italy in July, however, you have to be prepared for extremely hot weather so most American tourists won't reserve something without air conditioning.

About the air conditioning, if you will read back to the beginning, SHE is not the one who requires it, it is her Significant Other. Alison is having to cater to a rather fussy Partner, so don't accuse HER of being over-particular.

alison:
Your trip report was excellent! I for one loved all the personalized detail you included and think, along with many others, that you should ignore the small minded remarks of those posters that have an ax to grind.

Your efforts are appreciated and bookmarked!