Since arriving back in Europe I’ve become mesmerised by what
they call the ‘public transport’ system.
No matter how many miles lie between cities, towns, and
villages on this vast expanse of land, there seems to be some conceivable way
of reaching your final destination.
Land locked areas of beautiful countries, which were once
sealed from my explorations, are now easily accessible – and wondrous sights
and historical monuments can now be reached and enjoyed.
What is most galling is that these veritable treasure troves
can be accessed in less time than it used to took myself and my crew to reach
the end of the harbour!
After a wonderful stretch in Milan, I’m back aboard the
train for my next adventure.
Toowist has assured me that in a few short hours, I’ll
disembark in Verona – one of Italy’s most beautiful cities.
On my journey to this new unknown city I pass by sprawling mountains and vast expanses of lush trees and
green field, I really am in a different world to the fast-paced lifestyle of Milan.
Stepping off the train, and following advice from my trusty
guide (it hasn’t let me down yet, and why change a good thing?) I wander along
the cobbled streets, seeking the dream which most young people have searched
for at some point in their fragile lives – love.
Verona is labelled as the city of amore, and I’ve chosen a beautiful September evening to visit this
fair place.
In the dark and crisp night air, it really is possible to
believe that the tragic love story of Romeo and Juliet is true.
Set on the streets of this Italian mecca, the Shakespeare
tale, penned after my own time, is I am told very well-known to the modern
world.
Steeping my mind in the pair’s tragic tale, I browse the
streets to look for the famed wall where people whisper their hopes and dreams
that they will someday find their one true love.
Based on a family feudwhich occurred in the area in the 13th
and 14th century, the play, written by the Bard in the 16th
century is an interesting take on Italian culture – and one which I have
learned rather a lot from.
Aside from immersing myself in stories from yesteryear, I am
also thoroughly enjoying my time in piccolo Roma.
Verona was given this title – which translates as Little
Rome – for its importance in the imperial days.
I am also thoroughly enjoying the
food on offer here. The rich texture and deep sauces are a far cry from the
water, vinegar and sea biscuits we were used to on the Santa Maria.
With a grand selection of Italian
cheeses, pastas, warm bread and fine wines on offer, I truly am at home delving
into the plethora of tantalising tastes found in the many quaint restaurants in
this picturesque city.
Toowist has led me in the
direction of the town’s oldest quarter – a hidden gem of divine meals, and even
better hospitality.
I have two nights in this vintage city – and several more
monuments to visit.
However, for now, I think I shall enjoy the soft setting of
the sun, and the inviting night air which offers the hope that tomorrow shall
be an even better day on my travels…
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