Mountain Climbing

Today’s ride was a 260km loop taking in the Maloya Pass, Splugen Pass, and the Fluela Pass. The scenery here is just beautiful, whether your riding through the mountains, winding through the valleys next to a river, or passing through one of the many quaint little villages you have to wind through on their tight narrow streets.

Venice – the last day

For a limited stay three nights is a good compromise as you have the opportunity to learn the lay of the land, how to get around, do a few touristy things, and just soak the place in. Two nights just felt rushed. Today’s major activities included a tour of the Doge’s Palace and St Mark’s Basilica, and finishing the day off with a Baroque Concert which I enjoyed more than I expected. I have also included some tips on touring Venice.

Venice – Cruising the Lagoon

Today was a slower pace. With our only organised trip today to the islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello at 3pm we just wandered aimlessly, deeper and deeper into Venice. While there aren’t any cars to deal with on the streets of Venice there is lots of pedestrian traffic. At least with cars there is a vague appearance of rules. Pedestrians … not so much.

Venice – first impressions

This morning was spent sliding through the Italian countryside at 240km/h, passing crops, vineyards with their straight rows of grapes, and hay bales standing in the open paddocks. And within 25 minutes of getting to Venice we had checked into our accommodation and ready to start exploring with a walking tour of the city.

Rome – taking in more sights

After our original plans of getting out of town fell through we spent the day just exploring Rome utilising the hop-on hop-bus . Checking out a number of cathederals and ruins. And finished off the day with dinner on a balcony overlooking the Colloseum.

Zed14 at the Colosseum Rome

Rome – the Colloseum

Today we leave the ship and move into our second phase of the trip. The highlight today was a tour of the Colloseum and Roman Forum tour. Walking through these places you feel the history and wonder and at what it must have looked like in its heyday.