Andiamo!: Verona

Boat then train to Verona. Again, an adventure but no problems. It was warmer in Verona but we had rain most of the time. It didn't stop us though. We did do a little shopping for a rain coat and hat for Lou and a poncho for me. Now we blend! We were also thrilled to have a hotel room with heat! Must be the mayor here gave the ok. We were actually too warm at times!😉 the first day we visited the arena. The amphitheater is the 3rd largest in the roman world. Most of the stone is still the original, dating from the first century A.D. we climbed to the top to see the view of the city, which we didn't think was going to be that difficult for us, but our quads were sore for days! It must have been the big steps. We certainly had climbed more steps in past days. Again we spent lots of time wandering streets, taking in the sights, stopping in cafés for espresso, a glass of wine or some pizza. One of the nicest walks was to the giardino giusti. It is a 15th century garden enclosed by a high brick wall. The Goethe cypress is more than 600 years old! (didn't look a day over 100) we got lost in the hedge labyrinth and climbed a winding staircase to an upper garden and amazing views of the city! There was also a collection of roman epigraphs and archaeological fragments. We visited Juliette's balcony and statue. They say its good luck in love if you touch her breast, but Lou chose to take his chances. Again we had some of the best Italian food of our lives and too much wine.