Travel, trains and Lucca

Today was the day after about 10 years of travel and who knows how much distance, my suitcase was replaced with a new one, as the wheels had fallen off. Now both Katie and I have new cases. Her case was purchased before we left, and my new one was purchased on our last day in Florence. We thought the Green and Gold fit us two Aussie travellers. 

I use the app for train details and platform numbers. Trains are a great way to get around Italy, and in the past, we have found them a little frustrating, but we have learnt the Italian way and little tricks that make it less stressful for us. We consistently arrive at least 30 minutes before departure, with prepurchased tickets if possible (now I use the TrenItalia App and don't use a ticket machine). Often in stations like Florence, there can be 16 platforms or more. The departures board will only have the next 15 departures listed, leaving us to rush when it finally comes up to the platform. However, with the app, I can search for our train, get details of the platform for departure and be ready when it pulls in before the crowd rush.

Watch each other and watch the crowd. It is tricky to explain, but over time we are always on the lookout in these places. It is hectic and crowded, and without each other looking out, we could fall victim to petty crime.

This morning as we got into the station, I saw two tourists dash past us, and as they did, the man dropped his ticket. In my mind, one of the worst things that could happen is to lose your ticket. Anyway, in the blink of an eye, I picked it up, told Katie to watch our bags and ran across the floor (they were moving fast) and gave the man his ticket. I could tell they were in a rush. They quickly said thanks, and my good deed for the day was done. 

Our train ride to Lucca was uneventful, but it is incredible how I could perform a video call to family back home on a moving train. Only a few years ago, this was not possible. (well-done mum, your digital skills are getting better)

Lucca is a walled city, one of the reasons we came here. 

The afternoon was spent walking around and also having pizza by the slice. 

After some more walking, we went to a bar with some Beer, a spritz, cheese and salami. It felt like we were on a late autumn day, not the middle of winter. 

 

As it had been a busy week, we returned to our apartment and had a siesta and watched some English-language television.

Tomorrow, who knows!