Mary Ellen being a good sport took part in the Guiness tasting at 6AM while our flight from Boston connected in Dublin, quick pint then off to Milan. I am a lucky man.
After our pint of G, we hopped a flight to Milan, drove 3 hours and settled in a town called Santa Margherita. Great spot to hang for a few days, we did day trips and on our return plenty to do at night. First day we took the train to Riomaggiore, Southern most town in Cinque Terra. Quaint town built on the cliffs. CW we found your spot, several pictures to prove it.
Day 3 my land lover wife and I took the boat to Portofino. After Mary Ellen got her land legs back we made the most of our time in this very pricey tourist trap.
Casual Water's big brother!
One of the best Christmas presents ever....Lonely Planet Italy! Came in handy several times. We are having coffee in Santa Margherita
Day 4, driving from the coast to Tuscany, Mary Ellen taking a break as we walk through the town of Lucca. We made a last minute call to visit this town on our way through Tuscany since Megan Bartley and Stacy Larson both have family ties back to this amazing city. Next time we are renting bikes to explore the city.
Our favorite spot along the way, La Bandita. Mary Ellen relaxes after a long drive, we had a little trouble locating this place as it is very new and very hard to find. Thanks to Jason and Deb.....and Brennie for our GPS pre-loaded with maps of Italy we found her.
Private dinner for two on the back patio....private chef, four course meal. Great wine, we are now fans of Brunnelo's....major fans of La Bandita.
We had a visitor on our second night at La Bandita, Cartuzzo. The chef David has a cat that stays on property. Day 5, very peaceful, toured a nearby town, lounged at the Bandita and made dinner our major event for the day......honeymoons are great! My wife is beautiful.
Touring Sienna, Mary Ellen on the far left. Day 6 was very busy as we drove through Sienna on the way to Florence.
Dinner in Florence, my wife takes a break before we walk by several vendors selling jewels!
Day 7 we hit the streets of Florence, the Duomo is large. I think the best picture of this place would be taken from space.
Most people do their research before Florence based on the historical sites....we based our trip on great food, well done Mary Ellen. Trattoria Marioni, everyone waits outside and they do one seating, finally they open the doors and everyone rushes in, fearing of not getting a table! Fun place, great food.
Day 8, we drove northwest to Milan. Stopping in the town of Parma, home of....Parmesan cheese. Milan was very slow as it was Sunday but I have a great picture of our hotel and Mary Ellen taking down a little "Coke Lite" from Mickey D's, uh trust me that cup is hers.
I also fell victim to Mickey D's with a McFlurrey, check out our Fiat Punto...coming to a Chrysler dealer near you!
Day 9, return the rental car, check in, Milan to Dublin.......was there ever a doubt? Cheers!!
