TEXAN TRAVEL

Siena

From Florence you can drive to Siena. It’s distinguished by its medieval brick buildings and a wall that encloses the entire city. A must see is the Piazza del Campo which is the main public space, regarded as one of Europe’s greatest medieval squares. It’s been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This location has been used in many, many movies that you will surely recognize. Siena is famous for the Palio, a horse race held twice a year. James Bond’s movie, “Quantum of Solace,” was filmed on site with Bond arriving in Siena in his Aston Martin, then found himself right in the middle of the famous horse race.

Texan Travel

Montepulciano

This my favorite wine. Plus the city of the same name is breathtaking. How can you not love this wine when surrounded by Italian vineyards known around the world.

On the way to the city, the countryside you will experience is the most scenic road in all of Tuscany. This is the road with the typical (Is there such a thing?) Tuscan landscape that you see in a postcard or travel magazine. There are many charming towns in this area. Old town San Gimignano is right out of a Medieval fairytale. Volterra is nearby, and the perfect place to have a nice Tuscan dinner. The Hotel La Locanda is one of the nicest in the area. Budget wise, you can even stay in a hotel located inside a 15th century Franciscan monetary, the Christo Delle Monache in Volterra.

Pisa

Next stop is Pisa, as in the “Leaning Tower of Pisa.” It truly is a sight to behold and an unbelievable architectural feat. And yes, it really is leaning. The Pisa town center is less crowded and the Borge Stretto has many restaurants, cafes and shops.

Tip:

Rather than staying in Pisa, head towards Luca. It has terrific atmosphere and many nice hotels. Luca was the birthplace of Giacomo Puccini. (La Bohemia’s and Madama Butterfly) Hotel Palazzo Alexander is a standout. Luca has some of the best Italian towers that truly exemplify Tuscany.

Verona

I wanted to mention the city of Verona for a side trip. It’s in the region of Veneto and can be reached by train. It’s where the balcony of Romeo and Juliet is located. Fun trip but only if you have an extra day.

I mentioned I would suggest a few movies to get you into that “we need to go to Italy” mood. First, the movie, “Letters to Juliet.” Then, of course, “Under The Tuscan Sun,” and how about “A Room with a View (1985).” Also, there are a bunch of travel films with excellent flyovers to chose from.

Oh, English is not a problem and if you’re interested in a Vatican tour with an audience with the Pope then remember the Pope is out of town during the summer months.

If you can’t go to Italy anytime time soon then try an Italian dinner with your friends. Everyone brings an authentic dish!

Here’s a toast to you with a bold Tuscan wine and a friendly Ciao!

Livorno

This Italian port city is known for its fresh seafood. The charming seaside town is known as the “new” Venice, because of its system of canals. Remember, Tuscan summers are hot. But a trip to the Mediterranean will help cool you down. Especially if you are sitting and overlooking the sea sipping an ice cold brute of Prosecco with friends.