We had an early start today. Our train left Florence at 9:18 AM. That meant we had to be at the station by 8:30 AM. So, taxi from the hotel by 8:00 AM. Breakfast at 7:15 AM. Up by 6:00 AM.

Late last night we noticed they were filming right outside the hotel. Still not sure if it was Twilight, but we all went down and strolled around the set until they kicked us off. I did stay back with one person and watch them film a random scene with someone crossing the street. They shot if four times and still did not have the proper lighting, so we decided it was time to go to bed.

The train ride was nice. EuroStar. Dining car. Super fast and smooth.

We were in Rome by 11:00 AM. Since this was a small group of teens, and our hotel was right on the line, we took the Metro from the station. It’s so much cheaper than a private bus and way more exciting. A private bus is about €200. Metro for 15 people, €15. I use the Metro on all my trips, but never with luggage. I was not concerned with this group.

Most of the rooms at the Alimandi were ready and we were all hungry. I made some lunch suggestions and then took the boys to my friend, Marco’s restaurant. We had sandwiches. Mmmm.

Then it was back to the hotel to freshen up. I was staying at the owner’s (Paolo Alimandi) apartment, and he was not ready for me. So, I left all my luggage in someone else’s room. I really wanted a quick nap, but that would have been weird.

When we met in lobby, I found out one girl had gotten sick. Strange but I take a lot of trains and it’s only on the EuroStar that people seem to get sick. Maybe it’s the gentle swaying. It’s much smoother than the other trains. Who knows?

So, back to the Metro and off to the Colosseum.

We met our guide, Paolo, from Eternal City Tours. I’ve been using him for years and each time, I learn something new. He’s always a huge hit. An American living in Rome studying at one of the Pontifical Universities. His thing is the Philosopher’s Guide to Rome. Super Catholic too!

I came to Rome several times a year for six years before I ever went inside the Colosseum. I’d strolled through the Forum, but it just wasn’t my thing. Now, visiting the Ancient City is one of my highlights. And this time, traveling with a Latin group, made it even better.

For the first time since I’ve been visiting Rome, Caesar’s house was open to the public. Frescos that are 1000′s years old look as if they were done yesterday. It was amazing.

After the Ancient City tour, it was back on the Metro to the hotel. We all changed into dinner attire and headed to Bastioni’s. This is always my first stop in Rome. I love the family who runs the place, Emilio (the chef) and his kids Andrew and Christina are awesome. And the food is great too!

Tonight we had the usual, Penne alla Bastioni. The house specialty of penne pasta with an orange and tomato sauce. So strange and so good. Great conversation at the adult table about temperaments.

After dinner we went for quantity over quality, Old Bridge. Quality is pretty good too, but not compared to Vivoli’s or GROM. With our gelato, we strolled over the Saint Peter’s Square and enjoyed the full moon and perfect weather.

Just another evening the Eternal City.

Just a few days in and I have to say I’m totally in love with this group. So much fun. Perfect compliment to my personality.

Today we started with free time. Then met our guide for a tour of the city and the Uffizi.

I’ve used Florentia for years. I always get Simone and he’s awesome! So I was disappointed to hear he was in China with his family. So selfish of me!

So today, we got Dr. Luca. And as much as I love Simone, I may be requesting Luca from now on. He was amazing and hilarious. Picture an older gentleman wearing a linen liesure suit. More animated than a Pixar movie. Some of the kids got video of him raising the roof in the Baptistry. Awesome.

He did a little dance to explain a painting. Awesome.

He would say ‘just 5 more minutes, then 3 more’. The best part, he was totally serious.

We split up for a bit. He said “meet here at 4:45, 15 until 5:00, that’s 15 minutes before 5:00, 3/4 after 4:00″. Classic.

After the tour I headed out to another solo dinner. Again 14 of my closest tagged along. With this group, I preferred it. I love them all. Three of us adults sat together and talked adult things. Nice break from teen chat.

A Luca recommended gelateria and off to bed.

Early train to Roma!

We started this morning with a visit to several churches. First stop was San Marco to see the incorrupt, San Antoninus.

Then to Santa Croce to visit the tomb of Michelangelo, Galileo, Machiavelli and Puccini.

From here to Vivoli’s. The second best gelateria in Florence. Then lunch at my favorite spot, Verranzzano. Foccacia all around. Also some excellent wine.

Then over to Santa Maria Novella.

Followed by some free time to shop the markets.

Dinner was on our own. I told them where I was going, Open Bar, and my dinner for one turned into dinner with 14 of my closet friends. Ah Firenze! And don’t worry parents, the name of the place refers to the fact that the restaurant hangs over and opens up onto the Arno with a classic view of the Ponte Vecchio.

We had some great discussion as we started to get to know one another better. As it often does, the discussion turned to music.

From here back to GROM dispite the lady that dissed Marcella. Luckily she was not working. But first a stop to ride the carosel. More California love and back go the hotel.

The Latin class wanted to say hello to everyone back home. The Art History class refused to be in front of a camera. — Though I got them to agree to say something in the Pantheon, that will happen this weekend.

So, here it is, BT on the Ponte Vecchio in Florence, at sunset.

It’s been difficult updating here everyday. I will continue to do my best, of course. But, if you want ‘live’ updates from the trip, it’s best to follow on Twitter. Second best is to follow on Facebook.

I can make those updates from my phone while we are out and about. Plus, they don’t require an actual internet connection.

Enjoy!

We are 3 days in and this is my first real update. Even it will be abbreviated.

We’ve been so busy, and the internet so slow, that it’s been hard to get anything done.

So, here’s a summary of the trip…

Day 0
At 11:00 PM, I get a call from the bus company saying there is a problem with the bus. And by bus, they mean the bus that is picking up the group from the airport in 9 hours. They can get another, but it will be later because tomorrow (Tuesday) is a national holiday, the Festa della Repubblica.

Wouldn’t be a big deal except that we are going to straight to Assisi!

After spending a few minutes looking for other bus options, and realizing that it was nearly midnight the day before a holiday, I decided to look at the train. So, I checked the train schedules and found a train that perfectly fit our schedule. Then I went to bed.

Day 1
I went straight to Termini (train station) and booked the tickets. Then I took the Leo Express to the airport.

The flight was delayed by 30 minutes. Only 3 people checked luggage! Even still it took a while to get it. Once everyone was out, I explained the bus situation – and they were excited! I mean who wouldn’t want a train ride through Umbria?

Timing was perfect and we got to the Leo Express just minutes before it was leaving. One of the girls lost a shoe getting on the train, and I, the humble guide, jumped down onto the tracks and retrieved it. When I gave it to her, she said, she would have left it. The things I do! – Don’t get me wrong, she was grateful.

Then to Termini. A quick snack and it was off to Assisi.

Most slept. They were lucky we were on a train. I NEVER would have let them nap on the first day otherwise!

As we arrived in Assisi, I called ahead and arranged for pick up from one of my usual drivers. He zipped us to Hotel Umbra in just a few short minutes.

After freshening up, we headed out to San Rufino, the Cathedral of Assisi. We saw the font where both Francis and Clare were baptized. The footprints left by the ‘mysterious pilgrim’ and the replica of the San Damiano cross.

From here it was down the hill to Santa Chiara. I quick view of the valley below and then into the basilica. We prayed in front of the real San Damiano cross and at the tomb of Saint Clare.

Then back up to Piazza del Comune and a visit to Santa Maria sopra Minerva. Having a Latin teacher with me is awesome. She pointed out something I had never noticed. Minerva was the goddess of wisdom, and the inscription about Mary in the church says Mary is the seat of wisdom. I never put it together. And, of course sopra, means over. – I already knew that one.

Some free time before dinner.

During the break, I went up to the roof of the hotel and shot a packing video with my new Zuca. Will try to post soon.

Then dinner. Cheese and spinach ravioli. Pork and potatoes. Eggplant. Chocolate mousse. Then, off to gelato! And ‘combo’ was born. We had an unofficial gelato stop earlier and everyone got just one flavor. So, I told them that they should get at least two at once. So, one of the guys told the lady at the gelateria he wanted a combo. There were hand signals and all. Very funny. Video soon. I’m sure we are the only ones who will get it, but it still needs to be preserved.

End of day one.