Monday 2nd May

Woke up to remember that this decrepit old blogger had left out a few items from the previous day’s events.

Firstly, during our train journey from Venice to Trieste I was in the process of trying to delete missed and inadvertently called Craig not once but 3 times. Under normal circumstances this would have been sign of fatherly affection from across the world but unfortunately it was 3.00 am in Melbourne. A semi-comatose son had readily concurred with my observation that it was probably a bit early to be calling him and the conversation was one of the shortest ever from overseas!

I also managed to overlook the fact that on arrival in Trieste G and I had taken a stroll down the lovely Viale XX Settembre, close to the hotel and had enjoyed pasta and a drink at Madisons, a convivial bar/bistro.

Most of the above does not make for riveting reading but I didn’t wish to leave any info from my blog.

Monday a very fine day weather-wise so head off straight down to XX Settembre to indulge ourselves with gelato at Madisons. They are closed all day Monday so we check out a gelateria nearby where a truly miserable b. of a woman grudgingly serves us one scoop each of some very tasty gelato ( she appeared to be disdainful at the small value of our purchase.)

Embark on a walking tour of Trieste which turns out to be a very impressive city in a wonderful location. The Piazza dell’Unita dell’Italia is a magnificent area opening out on to the harbour front.

Next stop is the Castello di San Giusto, set high above the city and offering a glorious view of the city and the surrounding area. Unfortunately, it takes a very steep climb up steps to reach the castle but we comfortourselves with the thought that it is all good training for our Croatian cycle tour.

Back in town we enjoy a snack at another cafe on XX Settembre, explore more of the city centre and end the day dining at one of the many small restaurants just back from the waterfront and sharing a bottle of wine in a very short period of time.

After receiving a text from Ian Smith advising us of their ETA at the hotel in Trieste we hurry back to meet them, in a slightly tipsy state.

It’s great to see them again looking well if a little jet-lagged. They are keen to have a bite to eat so we go off to a pizza bar on the ever-popular XX Settembre.

Turn in early only for Cath to set off the alarm in her shower, not once but twice, thinking that it was a cord for the light. The alarm is designed for emergencies, mainly with old people in mind ,so at least it served the purpose for which it was installed!

Another Gail moment- I was complaining that she wanted to learn more Italian but would never respond to me when I tried to speak some Italian to her. She explained that she she was very happy for me to speak but I should not expect a response. Conclusion- I may as well talk to the bedroom wall or to a mirror as Gail kindly suggested as it will be just as productive.