Small town charm

If there is one thing we've learnt travelling through Southern Italy, it is that there is more character to be found in the small towns, over the big cities. Deciding we had seen all Lecce has to offer, we planned another day in the car, stopping in at smaller places. We hit the jackpot with our first stop, Nardo, a town we thought we would only spend about an hour in, but ended up staying for a number of hours.

We instantly felt welcomed in this tiny town and noticed the people were far more relaxed and receptive to visitors than Lecce. We found a tourist information centre and the lady was so helpful,
giving us a free map and pointing out some sites not to be missed. We started the morning right, by enjoying a coffee outside one of the little bars. It was nice to sit outside and enjoy the cool air. Today the top temperature was about 24, a welcome change after the hot days we have had. Two macchiato's cost 1.60 or 80c each (euro, not AUD). A macchiato is basically an espresso with a dollop of hot milk on top. This was one of the best coffee's we've had on this trip. The fact they were about 1.30 AUD made it even sweeter ;-)

We stumbled upon a tourist truck and I say truck because it wasn't a bus, or a little train, but an open-air truck. The little truck putt-putted around the border of town for about 20 or so minutes. Our guide spoke no English, but it didn't matter. We were pleased to be able to see the town from a local perspective. When he realised we didn't speak Italian, he asked the people in front of us if they spoke English and one of the ladies started translating some of the things he was pointing out to us - we believe she was Irish!

After our ride, we wandered some of the narrow streets, admired churches and the remains of a medieval castle.

Because we had spent longer than planned here, we decided to stay for lunch. We chose a small cafe on the square and ordered delicious cold cuts and cheese to share and fresh bread with cherry tomatoes and rocket, yum. I had spied a ceramics shop across the piazza that I wanted to check out. We wandered in to have a look and were amazed at the beautiful things on offer. The store owner spoke no English, but with our little understanding of Italian were able to work out he was telling us everything was made by a local artist. If we ever do purchase anything when we are away, we like to support local artisans. We stood in front of the beautiful vases and both admired the same piece. We were keen, but not sure about getting it home. We've posted things home before during trips, if we have purchased books etc, but weren't so sure about precious ceramics. With the help of google translate voice to text, we were able to have a conversation with the shop owner who assured us that he could package it perfectly to post home to Australia. We then explained we would take it to the post office to sort out. He wrapped that thing to within an inch of its life. I'm not sure how we will get all of the tape off when we get home but we'll worry about that later!

So, happy with his packaging, we then asked where the local post office was. He then gestured to us that his shop assistant would show us. We were amazed. Out we went and hurried after the power walking lady who took us directly to the post office. The fun and games did not end there. When we explained to the man behind the counter we wanted to send this package to Australia please, there was a sharp intake of breath, goggle eyes and a rub of the forehead. Luckily for us, the gentleman spoke a little English. This was clearly a first for him and then we realised, many of his colleagues. All of a sudden they all wanted to get involved, offer him advice. At one point there were at least 7 members of staff in his cubicle wildly throwing arms around and exclaiming, 'Australia!' We will be amazed if it all works out and it arrives within 2 weeks or even 6 months. But, keep an eye on the post Linda, Shannon addressed it to you!

Happy with our purchase, we left Nardo and were back on the road to Gallipoli. Yes, you read right and no we didn't fly over to Turkey. Gallipoli is on the coast and an important port for the south. The wind was wild, the tourists aplenty and the tacky souvenir shops were everywhere. This town is clearly aimed at tourists as it is right on the beach. It wasn't really for us, but we wandered a bit, stopped for a cold drink and of course, bought another magnet for the collection. A fabulous day out and our last in this area. Tomorrow we leave Lecce for Bari.