First Impressions and Home Away From Home

Flew through the night and arrived in Florence early this afternoon. Through a strange sequence of events, I have all Business Class flights for this trip. Sure can’t complain about that! Both flights to get here were on time and with good food!

It seems that everyone who has been to Florence before has great things to say about it. Absolutely great! So my expectations are pretty high! And I found that in the taxi ride into the city from the airport, I was noticing, maybe even seeking out, the less nice things! Hey, there’s graffiti there! This road is torn up with construction! These buildings don’t look so good!

But then! Then! We arrived in the old city. The part that’s been here for centuries! And it IS gorgeous. I’m sure it will be even nicer on a sunny day. (today was cloudy and cool)

My hotel is in the old town part of the city, and dates back to the 16th century. It’s sweet in so many ways, and I’m very comfortable here. My bathroom even has a tub, quite a surprise. I’ll be so happy to take a soak after a day of walking around. Or a week of that!

The reception area has an amazing ceiling. My room is on the third floor, and we have a little terrace area. And my windows open to let the fresh air in! Ahh!