italiafile

I've been in Tuscany with my parents, and missed the most important day in
recent Neapolitan history. Maradona came to town! The entire city ground to
a halt while the once fat one went walkabout and visited the stadium. it's
the first time he's been back since he left in semi disgrace 15 years ago.
The Neapolitans didnt care though, he is semi divine for the people here.
Florence meanwhile was full of Americans. Moaning. Too many churches, too
many italians, not enough English being spoken, anything and everything
falling foul of the desires of the people of Kentucky. It was vile. Even
the oltrarno, the area south of the river and usually off the tourist
circuit is getting trippy. All the nice old workshops of the antique
restorers and shoemakers are being turned into designer boutiques and trendy
restaurants. Its a great shame, there will be soon nothing left for the
Fiorentini in the city.
Fortunately out at Le Cascine, the huge park to the west of the city, the
emphasis is still on Florentines, and they all come here at the weekends,
leaving the city centre to the hordes. I love this park. Down by the river
some jolly folk have made a beach, complete with paddling pool. All it
needs are some garden gnomes and it would be a dead cert for Ground Force.

In Lucca the Americans were absent, just lots of middle class English with
many blond tots in designer prams. Lucca is a beautiful place, and despite
the fact that there really isnt much to do, the days pass with ease. The
hostel there is one of the poshest Ive ever been in. Its in the old
convent/monastery of San Frediano, and is palatial. Fantastic showers,
bathrooms and comfortable beds. I'll go back.