We were away by 9 and standing in front of the leaning tower of Pisa 90 minutes later.

We walked up the tower. Much easier climb than the recent Florence tower. 

The cathedral was closed for Mass until 2pm (public holiday today for Day of Assumption) so we grabbed an easy lunch nearby

Gorgeous cathedral. Tonya had to wear a large paper poncho after forgetting her shawl to cover her shoulders 

Back to the van for the 3 and a half hour drive to Rome and then immediately hit the swimming pool for a couple of hours. Pool closes at 8 but still plenty of people around at 9.

I have now hit over 3000km in the van and still absolutely love it. 1st and 2nd gear can be awkward but once moving its happy. Cruise control helped on the drive down today too. I took the SS1/E8 down the west coast of Italy from Pisa to Rome. Probably one if the very few non-tolled motorways in Italy and it showed with so many bumps and pot holes (SS means Sod Servicing??). I know it sounds stereotypical but have noticed how chaotic the Italians drive in contrast to my earlier smoother progress across Germany and Austria. When walking I’ve not worked out the rules of pedestrian crossings in Italy either with it seeming to be a game of chicken. Some boldly just walk across and have a near miss while others wait. A bold ex-colleague of mine would have a broken leg within hours of arriving here. 

Looking forward to seeing Rome tomorrow. Our 13th wedding anniversary too so the perfect place to spend it.

Simon