Back in Vernazza

OK, so just a postscript to my last post from Monterosso: Oh my friggin’ god! The walk back from Monterosso to Vernazza was pure torture. Made the hike to Corniglia feel like a stroll on the walls around Lucca by comparison. Well, maybe it was because it was the end of the day and I was exhausted.

Last evening

Another evening of relaxing. Tomorrow I have to check out of my room, but I plan to spend most of the day here in Vernazza just watching people frolic in the water and shopping and noshing. Later tomorrow I’ll catch a train for Milano, and I’ll spend tomorrow night in the airport awaiting my flight at 06.20.

My room here in Vernazza is absolutely charming, as I think I already mentioned, but it is ridiculously hard to find. When Daria (the owner) showed me to the room, she pointed out landmarks on the way, but I still had to write down the route the first time I left, or I’d never have found it again.

Thanks to those who’ve left comments, either here or on Facebook. It’s really great to hear from folks. And yes, Carrie, I did make it to Santa Maria Novella church in Firenze, and it was great. One of the frescoes there created a 3D illusion, almost a trompe l’oeil effect, that was most impressive.

It occurs to me I haven’t mentioned the heat since I arrived in the Cinque Terre. It’s still hot, but so pleasant. I might never go to another museum or another church as long as I live. The fact is, after a while, every adoration of the magi, every annunciation, every ascension, and especially every family portrait of Mary and Jesus (how is it they couldn’t afford a hotel room and yet they managed to get their portrait painted so many times?) all run together in my memory.