Florence, Italy - Part 1

We left Venice this morning.  While it is very magical and beautiful, we weren't sorry to leave the crowds.  We hopped on a high-speed train (after waiting for 3 hours at the train station - the earlier trains were full), and made the trip to Florence.  We had vague directions from our host to walk to the apartment, but since it was crazy hot, and we didn't know exactly where to go, we decided to take a taxi.

After settling in, we went to explore the neighbourhood a bit.  To our surprise, we stumbled upon the Duomo - Florence's most well-known landmark.  It is a 5 minute walk from our apartment.  So beautiful, and so big.  We found a nice little restaurant right beside the Duomo and sat at a lovely outdoor table.  Not 5 minutes after sitting down, it started to pour.  Our waiter moved us indoors and we ended up next to a friendly couple from Australia.  We had a marvellous time chatting with them throughout our dinner.  We have loved meeting so many different tourists on this trip.  It feels like you instantly have a special bond when you discover you speak the same language!

Turning in early tonight and gearing up for the sights of Florence tomorrow.