Alright, make a note in your diaries

I was wrong. It NEVER happens, like ever, but I'll go ahead and admit it.
And I didn't even have to, because I never wrote about the reservations I had about going to Italy, but you've stuck with me this far, I cannot tell a lie.

So to be honest I kind of dreaded going to Italy. After my experiences in Belgium I didn't like the idea of going somewhere that was known for not speaking English. My reservations were totally misguided. While there's been many time I've have to use a make-shift sign language (like dramatically acting out putting on and taking off a heavy backpack then turning a lock- to ask for a "left luggage" service) for the most part everyone's been proficient enough in English to get what I need, or friendly, creative and patient enough to play charades. On top of that, Italy (minus Milan which you already know I'm not a fan of) has been absolutely gorgeous and full of wonderful locals.

I'm so glad to be out of Florence. Don't get me wrong, I loved Florence, it's my favorite sized city. After two days I can instruct tourists on where to go, and give directions- which is my FAVORITE. The best cities are ones I can do that in two or three days. But the litter of tourists quickly became unbearable.
I'm in Lavanto, Italy now- in the Cinque Terra Italian Riviera. The train ride in from La Spenzia was beautiful. It was mostly spent in tunnels, going through mountains, but the flashes of Tyrrhenian Sea were incredible- a picturesque clear blue, surrounded by mountains...

So Lavanto is just a little town, but on the Riviera there are 4 other small cities, all along the coast- and all gorgeous. Unfortunately all but one or two are closed because of some sort of rockslide, but more on thar later.

In fact, I wrote this at dinner, then went out on the beach and then wandered around til I found an open bar... where I ordered wine and only have 2€ in change (it was 4) and he gave it to me instead of breaking my 20. I love Italy.

PS, the little tripod truck is becoming increasingly common, there was at least 4 in that little parking lot. And that delicious food is gnocchi, with tomato and basil sauce... oh my God. Amazing. Top 3 favorite meals of Europe.