It was snowing at my home in Portland, but my second day in Tuscany was beautiful...sunny and clear with that very distinct Italian palette in full play.I had lunch with my colleague to discuss the guests visiting this spring. After a wonderful fresh tagliatelle at Il Fornace di Meleto (Roman-Style...to go "Dutch"), I made the rounds to confirm cooking classes, winery tours and restaurant reservations. Many establishments are just opening up for the season, and there is relief in the air.
The prevailing sentiment is that the new Italian government is laying all of its economic woes on the citizenry...Roman Style, I guess. Prices have increased due to extra taxation, and people are struggling.
But the exchange rate to the dollar is the best I've seen for a while...1.32 at the bank, so there is hope that this will bring the American tourists. Last minute bookings seem to be endemic at this point, making it challenging for hotels and restaurants to plan and staff efficiently.
All of which means that it's a great time to visit Italy. Italian hospitality will always outshines the worry.
As I drove into Volpaia in the early evening, Gina stopped me to tell me about the confluence of Jupiter and Venus, telling me to come to the piazza at 9pm to see it.
I took a sunset photo walk and forced myself to stay awake. As instructed, at 9pm I walked out the door(with multiple layers...the nights are still chilly). All of the stars were clear and bright, and I wondered if I would recognize the planets if I saw them.
Then "ecco". Hanging over one of the castello rooftops, like multi-colored spotlights. Incredible. Others came out to admire. Que bellissimo.
I went back to my warm bed and was out in a heartbeat. The planets still have their act together.
Ciao for now.
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