A trip down memory lane.

Isn't is astonishing how something as simple as seeing a Fiat 500 can trigger a whole summer of memories?

Today, I have spent far too much time reliving a summer from years ago when my then current beau and I spent several weeks touring round Italy in an MG Midget.

The car was beset with problems from the start after grounding as we drove off the ferry in Calais, but we found the Italians both helpful and efficient at keeping her on the road.

When in Rome, after touring the Vatican, we were approached by a young couple, who asked if we were English (was it that obvious?) They were writing a magazine article with cartoons and wanted us to check not only their English grammar, but also the humour of the cartoons.

It will be easier if we take you to our car... You've guessed it was a Fiat 500, identical to this.
After we'd done their proof reading and tested the iffy humour they were most grateful and asked if they could do anything for us in return.
We asked if they could recommend a cheap restaurant for lunch.
After much shouting and gesticulating, they decided upon a place and offered to drive us there.

Four adults in a Fiat 500, is a tight fit. The young woman drove - straight into the parked car in front and then reversed into the car behind. More waving of arms and shouting followed, a note was written and left on the windscreen of each vehicle.

The drive across Rome was petrifying! The restaurant was fantastic, well off the tourist track.
I can remember both so clearly.