We drove through the tuscan countryside to visit the medieval town of Siena.  It is famous for the Palio horse race that is held in the ancient arena.  10 horsesrace around and all of the people stand in the middle of the arena.  No one sees anything but the atmosphere is electric.  The buildings surrounding the arena are curved and have balconies and I can imagine staying in one of those and observing the place. A truly beautiful place that I would love to go back to.  We wanted to climb the tower but there were so many school kids and a huge line and I was having my shopping time cut into.
I bought my first ever pair of boots and I just love them.  I kept seeing signs for the synagogue and found that.  Unlike the churches it was tucked away and very plain from the outside, of course it was closed.
The tour leader bought us all a gelati and we then set off up to Rome.
We saw the first road accident of the trip, which is amazing as they drive like maniacs but obviously have wonderful reflexes.
We were taken out for dinner to a wonderful place for our farewell meal, and had a fabulous time.
Got up very early to leave for the airport but when John and I came down to get on the bus we saw the bus driving a way.  The tour director took one look at us and started sprinting after the bus.  It seems she had counted the pieces of luggage and seen the correct amount but only one person noticed we were missing.  She turned around to see where we were and saw the lady running.  How funny.  We waited for a couple of hours before leaving for Hamburg and then off to Munich.
How lucky are we to have such beautiful friends in Munich.  Monika picked us up from the airport and we got "home" to two cakes, because of course we haven't eaten enough.  A special welcome drink made in our honour before dinner and then my favourite spaetzle and freshly made strawberry icecream.  Tomorrow is off to the great castle near here and hopefully no rain.  I love Munich.