We talked briefly in the hotel at breakfast, and just happened upon them outside of town. After much discussion about route selection they agreed to join us via a longer but quieter road to Arrezo. Great lunch together when we hit the pass at 580 meters, and then we had a thrilling windey downhill ride into Arrezzo. They helped us find the train station where we bought tickets for a train that left in 4 minutes! Quick goodbyes and we were off!
Thanks! you guys. Really enjoyed riding together.
We‘re getting good at getting across the language barrier and even when we ask for service in Englisé, and they say ‘Non, solo Italiano‘ we stll manage. When I bought the tickets for the train the man behind the glass had a great smile and printed out a special ticket with all the station changes and times ~ very helpfull.
While loading another young traveller with a bike helped us navigate the somewhat difficult loading and unloading process. When we arrived at the second train there was no bicycle car so there ensued a terrific argument with the conductor about whether our bikes were allowed in the car entrance (not) why we were sold a ticket (we were) that said there was a bike car, and how did the conductor have the right to kick us off (apparently he didn‘t!) After much threatening we agreed to move the bikes up tight to the wall, put the luggage in the overhead and all was good. Even a few smiles after. If we hadn‘t had had the support of our friend we probably would have meekly waited an hour for the next train.
Once in Bologna while riding up the main street to tourist info, we passed a 4 star hotel (which normally start at 140€) and I sent Sandra in to do her magic. She‘s good at going in, lamenting that the price is beyond our budget, and asking where there are some B&B‘s. 10 minutes later she comes out grinning and has a room for 75€!
Quick shower, out on the street for a nice Chianti, pizza and pasta and we‘re done.
Another great day.
