Pisa to Reggio nell' Emilia - 2 July 2011

Thank God for Google maps!  After a coffee and pastry breakfast we wishes Sian buon viaggio as she took the taxi to the airport and we set off for Reggio.  Faultless journey even though we may have been a bit lucky in Reggio to find Hotel Ariosto (55€) so quickly.  There was an accident near the hotel but that was the only delay.

Travelled up into the mountains – thankfully nice and cool after the heat of Rome and Pisa – and down the other side where it’s a bit hotter and the landscape flat as a pancake. We must mention Italian drivers and roads. The Autostrade are mostly dual carriageways, but this is no obstacle to a smooth, rapid procession of traffic because Italian drivers are so much more aware of their surroundings and are very considerate and are not aggressive at the wheel. The best drivers in the world are from Rome – they have to be.

Had a walk round Reggio and it is a very nice place, several nice piazzas, lots of tree-lined streets, parks and churches.  All very clean and tidy – we think the French have been here!  Pre-booked hotel in Mantova on internet for 2 days and googled route.

What a lovely place!  Had a nice meal – fillet steak (which was almost cooked) and chips for Jane and Tony had spaghetti amatriciana.  A couple had got married and were holding their reception in the piazza next to the restaurant.  Then, a band was playing in the main piazza – lots of people around – lovely atmosphere and a cool evening.  Italy as people imagine it.

Basilica di San Prospero, Reggio

Church of Christ, San Giorgio's and the Duomo, Reggio

The Municipal Theatre, Reggio

The Duomo

Signore Barnaby preparing for his concert