Monday 08/11/2010

At 7:15am the sky looked good from the little we could see out our window which faced a small alley, however, by the time we had showered and had breakfast it wasn't looking so good. The receptionist made reservations for us on a tour of Central Market (19euro each) which involved a walk round the markets with a chef being shown and trying olive oil, salami, cheese, bread and all "washed down with a Chianti".  Confirmation was emailled through and by the time we had put our coats on and were at the door with our umbrella (about 10 minutes from start to here) the receptionist called us to say the tour place were on the phone and the chef was sick. Tour cancelled and money back we walked down the short street to the Central Market and did our own "self-guided tour". These markets were a bit like the Vic Markets in Melbourne however not as big. Purchased a small grey handbag from the other markets as well as a leather plaited belt for Mike and these were our "leather from Florence". Off then to check out the inside of the Duomo because when we went to Mass on Saturday we only just went in the side door to the Chapel and then out again.  The place is amazingly large with statues and stained glass!! After lunch we decided to go the the Uffizi Gallery only to find it closed on Mondays. Instead we visited the Museum di Palazzo Vecchio which was nearly.  This was very interesting, large and decorative.  So glad we decided to go in for a look. We spent quite a bit of time there.  Had my first cafe latte of the trip which was nice but very milky.  In Europe the coffee is served ready to drink and not boiling like it is served in lots of places in Australia. Back through the markets where Mike found 2 silk ties he liked so they will go home with us. Back to Za Za for dinner tonight and purchased a cookbook which has been put together by the owner. Left it for him to sign and we will pick it up tomorrow before we leave. Mike is feeling very tired. Don't know if it's the 2 bottles of wine we have consumed since 4:45pm or the cold which has started to take hold of him.