Firemonkeyphoto

Where is Gomel??
neil posted in Photos, Travel, Neil on August 26th, 2006

Back in Scotland, tanned and exhausted.

Italy was interesting. Definitely not a relaxing holiday.

Italians seem a bit aloof and rude at first (as they shove in front of you in a queue, deny your reservation or charge you “cover” at a meal) but the majority we properly talked to were funny, friendly, honourable and helpful. A key to this country is to take it easy. Expect to be jostled for no reason when boarding a train, get used to the fact that everyone is going to try to push past you, even if it means they are shoving you at an oncoming fire engine. Do not expect to use your credit card for everything, especially in budget hotels. In August, skip touring from 1pm til 3pm to avoid the incredible midday heat. Better still, skip August as its the Italian holiday month. Going back, I’d suggest getting a scooter in Siena or Florence at least for the days experience. The Italian driving style matched with the nippy scooter is fun to watch, somewhat like the Star Wars trench run.

The complete Italy gallery is here.