Tuscany, Here We Come

Waking up to get ready to leave the island of Sicily, it was hard to believe that we were headed for a week traveling with Tauck in the lap of luxury - a rare exposure to international travel. From here on out, we would have very little thinking to do; our biggest challenge would be deciding what to wear. We were about to become Tauckies, a coveted group of tourists who travel in packs on buses experiencing the finest life has to offer.

Our flight from Sicily took us to Florence. I love Florence - it is one of my favorite cities! The history and architecture here has a power over me - it makes me so emotional and happy to be here. It is really a love-hate relationship ... it draws so many unavoidable crowds, reminding me why we don't spend more time in the country we love so much.

First stop: gelato and the duomo

Florence's duomo complex 

Statue of David - even a copy is beautiful

We spent the afternoon drifting through the narrow, medieval streets of the small bubble of the ancient town, reacquainting ourselves with its magnificent offerings. We took advantage of the time to get some shopping done.

We bargained for our souvenirs in Florence's outdoor San Lorenzo market

After many years and many countries, Greg finally found what he was looking for at this leather artisan - Dantesca Leather - 100% handmade in his shop near one of the oldest buildings in Florence, the Tower of Pagliazza

I was very excited about our evening plans - to see the opera Carmen. You see, I'm an opera virgin, and between traveling to Seville this past summer (where Carmen takes place) and being familiar with a couple of the songs, seeing it in Florence was calling loudly to me.  Of course, also appealing was seeing one of the most famous operas in the world. It was helpful that they projected the words in English!

Florence's Teatro del Maggio

Meeting up with your mommy in another country is the best thing in the world. Carmen was my mom's first opera, and now mine.

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