So much art....

Hi All

Today went to the Ufizzi Gallery which is one of the biggest in the World. Saw all the major artists - fantastic. There were whole rooms dedicated to the different artists from 1300's to 1600's. Nothing modern at all.....

Having 7 nights in Florence is great -lots of time so dont have to rush around and try and fit it all in. I've been to so many churches and seen about 7 different artistic versions of the "Adoration of the Magi". I have even started to know what it all means.

Its a great city - all very old and you can spend quite a lot of time just walking around taking it all in. Lots of walking -my feet are feeling it. But not too bad. The shopping is fantastic - lots of labels -very expensive. The handbags are to die for and I,m going to shout myself one. Beautiful leather. The shoes are also to die for but unfortunately my trip has just started and I don't feel like carting kilos of luggage.

Kris - you'd be proud of me!! To get from Rome to Florence, had to cart luggage through 1 bus, two trains and then onto Florence train. Never complained!!!! Actually wasn't too bad but must admit was buggered when I got to Florence!!

The train station in Rome was huge. 25 platforms just for regional trains. You don't get told what platform you are on until 10 mins prior to train leaving. And then its a mad rush to get on. There is no seating allocation so you have to find one yourself. Bit of a panic.

Otherwise, its pretty easy to find way around. Map is invaluable and its never out of my sight. Most italians speak a bit of English which is helpful. However the other day caught wrong bus and ended up actually off the map. >Knew it was the wrong way but thought it would eventually go back to where it started. no , not this one. It finished up a long way away. With the only bus driver who didn,t speak a word of English. Had to walk a bit but then found an alternate route back (very lucky) because there were no taxis or anything. Anyway, 1.5 hours later, got back to hotel. At least I saw a bit more of Florence.

Food is pretty good, although lots of carbs. Lunch is usually a panini or roll with ham and then dinner is usually pasta!

Im hanging out for a salad or vegs. Had a fantastic pizza for lunch so am still full. May try and find a salad for tea tonight. Doesnàt get dark until 9ish so havent actually seen it at night yet. Usually back in hotel by about 8ish. Tried to stay out later last night but there is not much to do.....

Tomorrow going on half day tour out into the country for Chianti tour -visit winery etc. Pretty expensive but its the only way to get out to the country.

Have organised Ferry to Split Croatia for Saturday and am spending Friday night at Ancona.

Once I get to Croatia, I,m going to try and be a bit more budget conscious and do more for myself (eg got tourist agency to organise ferry etc and it cost me about $30 commission.

Well, better go.. limited time and I still have to organise some accommodation in Croatia plus do some banking.

Having a great time but am missing everyone. Its very lonely travelling by yourself and miss talking to people. Must admit am having some great conversations with myself though!!! Gees, Iàm an interesting person!!

Lots of love

Kay