Camaiore 16 miles

As suspected 10pm isn’t when the youngsters go to bed around here. But in truth, once the double glazed windows were firmly shut and the ear plugs were in place they were not a problem.

Coolest day so far in Italy. No need for that expensive suntan lotion. I will be upset if it doesn’t get used as I only have hand luggage on the flight back so it will need to get binned. And the forecast for tomorrow is thunderstorms. Really wish the lotion could protect me from lightning strikes.

Had a bit of fun today with the pedestrian crossings. It’s a bit like playing Russian roulette I suppose. You think it is going well but there is always the chance it won’t. The trick is understanding the Italian driver. He/She is not going to give way unless they absolutely have to. There is no point in waiting for the traffic to stop before you venture out. Because it won’t. You have to wait until there is enough of a gap for you to step out firmly and the oncoming car is able to make an emergency stop. Obviously if it doesn’t have time to stop it isn’t going to end well. But once the driver realises that if he/she doesn’t stop there is going to be a pilgrim sized dent in the car then they seem happy enough to make that drastic stop. So that is half the road controlled. The other half should be easier because they get more warning of your intention. Don’t expect them to stop just because you are crossing. They will only stop if they calculate that at your rate of progress across the road they will knock you down if avoiding action is not taken. I suspect that if they get their nose in front so that you walk into the side of the speeding car then it is simply more fool you. I haven’t put that one to test yet.

Arrived at the BnB about 2.30pm so plenty of time to do some more booking. Think I only have 4 nights left to arrange. And tomorrow night should be my last dormitory night. Can’t wait.

Out to a recommended place for dinner. Tried the mixed antipasti. Mighty good although I don’t know what everything was. And then pasta. Had a bit of trouble with communication. Waiter asked if I wanted to sit inside or outside. I said inside ( to avoid the dreaded smokers), he repeated “inside” but then led me outside. Later I requested white wine, he repeated “white wine” but then brought me red.

On my way back I passed an open gelateria. There was absolutely no need. I was well stuffed already but it just felt wrong to ignore it.

Anyway, I was quite short of photos. As if I have ever needed an excuse to buy ice cream.Read more