Life is Beautiful: ArezzoAfter I departed from the group, I had a very mello evening. A skype call home, with a visual tour of the main square, the purchase of a small gift for each of my boys and a salad...to bed I went. Apparently, some members of our group were much more lively. These ladies (you know who you are) were dancing in the piazza into the night. Highlands, Iv'e got to say, you've got some real pizzazz. After the luggage was maneuvered, manipulated and otherwise shoved into the bus, we were off to the "big city" of Arezzo. Travelanthropy's homebase and hometown of our guide, Sara, this little known gem in the middle of Tuscany has everything one would like to see, save a bathroom! After we learned about the orgin and importance of the ancient walled fortification, we entered the city during Sunday mass which is really the perfect opportunity for a lesson in fashion. Top Italian designers must have the easiest job in the world marketing style to these people...they are dripping with good taste and tailored showmanship. The fortress came after a walk through a large open park that hung onto the tippy top of the town. Then the decent into the awe inspiring Piazza Grande, the home of the bi-annual Giastro del Saracino which happens every year on my birthday. The notable incline, mideaval clock tower and Loggia designed by Giorgio Vasari, just one of the citys famous residents of old, is at the very least, breathtaking and evocative. It is no wonder that it was chosen as the location for the film Life is Beautiful.
Before long we were swept up on top of the world, overlooking all of the surrounding countryside at Podere di Pomiao Winery. This truly small, botique winery offered a tasty selection of antipasto and 100% hand processed organic wine. Havesting would begin in short order, which left the vines pregnant with ripened grapes. The smell alone was mouthwatering. Pomaio (as Sara affectionately refers to it) had opened its doors for our group on a day that most are closed. A little music, a little laughter and a quick cameo from her sweet son, Rui and soon we felt right at home. The group, well fed and relaxed now made the transfer to Radda in Chanti. Small, quaint and picturesque, the Hotel Leopoaldo pulled out all of the stops and we enjoyed a variety of welcome snacks, juice, spritz and Prosecco on the terrace. A lovely dinner with tradtional Tuscan bbq and of course...wine because...well, does one really need a reason on a wine tour? Each night I have enjoyed a new portion of the group as dining partners, this was no exception. Thank you Jenny Lynn and Gena for putting up with us rowdy ones. What a great day with a truly fabulous group of individuals. I had to beg Gary and Kathy to let me walk home without escort, my husband really appreciates you. As it turns out, these are the friendliest townfolk I have seen yet. Radda, you may have stolen my heart.
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