BLOG FROM THE ETERNAL CITY:  I am sending this blog a little soon after my last one as this is my last free internet before boarding our ship (where internet charges will be outrageous).

Our train left Castiglion Fiorentino exactly on time, but someone screwed up as we reached Rome 1 minute early.  As our hotel was about 12 blocks from the station we decided to hoof it.  However, with one broken wheel on my suitcase a taxi might have been a better option.

On the train we met an interesting young couple who quit their jobs in Toronto 4 years ago and emigrated to Castiglion F.  They survive on the rental income from the house they still own in TO plus he goes back for one month per year and plies his trade as a cabinet maker.

After arrival in Rome we walked to Trevi Fountain and then on to the Spanish steps.  The crowds of people were unbelievable.  We sat forever on the Spanish steps and people watched.  At one point we saw a police car take more than 20 minutes to work its way through the crowd for about one short block.

After a nice supper we were very happy to put our aching feet to bed in the hopes they would be restored for another day on the Roman paving stones.

SUNDAY IN ROMA:  Rome is a great walking city even in the rain.  I invested 3 Euros in a flimsy umbrella which needs to last only through this evening.  Tomorrow our cruise ship will provide each passenger with sturdier implements. 

We started our day with a 45 minute walk to the Pantheon, which was well worth it.  The dome is spectacular and has survived for more than 2000 years.  After all, the dome at St. Peters is simply a copy.  We then kept walking from one Piazza to another until our feet gave out. 

We are now recuperating back at our hotel before a half hour walk to a hole-in-the-wall where we have an early reservation.  After dinner we are going to Teatro Salone Margherita (a small opera house) for a concerto of “enchanting arias” to be performed by an assembly of “the most accomplished virtuosos” of Venice.

Assuming our feet get us home tonight we shall be very happy to board our ship tomorrow for the two-day sail to Santorini.