Siena & Florence

Yesterday, the villa took an hour and a half bus ride south to Siena. The town was beautiful and amazing. Everything was so jammed into each other, the streets were very narrow. The best part was when three of us decided to branch off from the group and get the to highest point possible in Siena. Which is shown in the picture, and yes I am happy, the sun was in my eyes and it was hot. It was a breathtaking view. After we left Siena we stopped off an exit and went to a wine tasting and tour of a villa in the middle of nowhere. Still haven't quite acquired the taste, but it was a cool experience regardless.

Today, we went into Florence for the first time and walked from San Mineato to the Uffizi and to the Duomo and saw everything in between. Every time I see these ancient buildings I imagine what I thought of the images when I read about them, books and lectures don't do it justice. To actually stand in front of these beautiful structures and feel the magnitude and construction of these structures around me, it hasn't ceased to amaze me yet. After the walk we stopped and ate. The restaurant we went to was too tourist oriented so my pork panini wasn't too good. The best part of today was the view we got when standing in front of San Mineato and had a complete view of Florence, it was unbelievable.

I am looking forward to our visit to cinque terra next weekend. These five villages are on the coast of the Mediterranean and we have to hike to each one.

Check my flickr page for some pics of Siena and Florence if you wish.