Italy Day Five

Talk about the Luck of the Irish - (my mum was Irish), because not only did it not rain on both our opera nights - poured in the night between them - but we hadn’t booked a table for dinner with a view of the Arena, but happened to get a prime front table as people were just leaving. We all had grilled sea bass and potatoes.

Rigoletto, which we knew nothing about, was a completely different production. (Extra 1) No extraordinary lighting effects, no huge cast, no spectacular costumes and amazingly clever set changes, but the music was fantastic. Lots of solo performances.

We were sitting at the other side of the orchestra this time, so I could watch the much more animated string section, instead of the under-employed percussionists. The eight double bassists moved - vigorously at times - as one. I was mesmerised. Hazel was mesmerised by the conductor - the same one as did Aida!

JR was too tempted by the item in the very upmarket shop, she spent the evening ostensibly debating the pros and cons of yet another labelled handbag, though really, it was a forgone conclusion… and so she and Hazel went to purchase it this morning. I had better things to do - eg going back to that amazing ice cream shop to order a RED rose ice cream. BUT… it was closed!! Check out the signs on the windows of the shop, bottom left - Take Photo but Pay. I did but I didn’t.

However, Verona is a MOST pleasant small city to wander around in. SO clean and tidy. Not ONE bit of litter or chewing gum on their fabulous granite paving. What is wrong with Brits??

Our taxi arrived at the appointed time and whisked us to Gardone, on Lake Garda. We’ve settled in to our hotel and for the first time ever, in my life - I have a balcony with a lake view. Should make for a pleasant evening sitting outside with our bottle of Soave wine bought on the tour. BUT… 50 yards along, they’re setting up a stage for a concert. But as it’s a Coldplay tribute band (the waitress told us) it shouldn’t be tooooo awful. (Extra 2)

We took a walk along to the hotel’s private beach area and swimming pool. Suffice to say, I don’t think my togs will be making an appearance, it’s too busy, with awful pop music blasting out.

We’re busy tomorrow anyway, with an all day private boat trip, with lunch included. Though the same weather is showing on the app - thunder and lightning and frequent rain. Fingers crossed (it’s worked so far!)