It Began Here
Thoughts on how I fell in love with Florence and how the city changed my life - of course it began with a painting by Leonardo
The Oltrarno, Forence
The Oltrarno, or ’other side of the Arno’, is a place of winding streets and artisan shops, cafes, street markets, workshops, small piazzas and quiet spots - little has changed since medieval times.
Some Non-Touristy Ideas For Rome
Some things a little different to do in Rome, away from those places often thronged with tourists.
A Day Sailing the Cinque Terre
Memories of a day spent sailing (and swimming and eating) along Italy’s Cinque Terre.
Beneath the Duomo, Florence
Beneath Florence’s Duomo lies an archeological treasure trove: remnants from the old Roman town Florentia, an early 4th C Christian Church, Santa Reparata. This was later rebuilt as the Cathedral Santa Reparata, only to be demolished in 1379 for the new Duomo.
A Bookshop in Venice
The Acqua Alta Bookshop is so typically Venetian: hidden in courtyard, complete with a gondola overflowing with books in all languages.
Exploring Civitavecchia
Civitavecchia is where many Romans escape the crowds of the city to sun themselves on a beach. It’s also the main cruise port for Rome. Instead of heading off for a whirlwind tour of the Eternal City, why not do as the Romans do and instead spend some leisurely hours here?
Venice and the Church of the Skiing Jesus
An unusual church spire in Venice, with Our Lady standing on top of a crescent moon and wearing a crown of 12 stars.
Venice, Gondolas and Me
Images and tales of gondolas and gondoliers from my visits to Venice, from travelling the Grand Canal, to seeing an attempted u-turn in a tiny canal.
Lunch at the Mercato Centrale
Buying fresh food at Florence's Mercato Centrale - a delectable experience!
The Markets of Venice
Behind the Rialto Bridge are the Venice Markets. Aside from an incredible array of seafood, there is also fresh fruit and vegetables, breads, meats - and later in the day, tourist stalls.
The Traghetti of Venice
The traghetti in Venice offer a cheaper version of a gondola - although you often have to stand!