Florence

Florence has always been a short stop on the way to somewhere else for LFMSS tours.  This year, though, we did it in style, staying two nights right in the old town literally 2 minutes walk from the Accademia museum.  The Hotel Panorama not only had nice rooms and views of the duomo, but also the best breakfast in Italy (in other words not just a roof-of-your-mouth-cutting bun with nutella), but a full spread with yogurt, cereal, cheese, meat, etc.  It's a great find, and we will stay there again.  Florence - the birthplace of the Renaissance, and therefore - the modern world - is a delight for art fans, shoppers, stair climbers, foodies, and, on the day we were there - sun worshipers.

 The baptistery to the right and the cathedral behind the cross.

Is this "the one"?

 Brunelleschi's famous dome capping the cathedral.  Most of us climbed up to the top for outstanding views of Florence on the outside, and of heaven and hell on the inside.

 You can't take pictures inside the Accademia (where The David is displayed) - but you can take them in the Piazza della Signoria where this copy stands.

 I don't know if this living statue was in trouble, but the policeman has removed his gloves, indicating he means business?

 A view from the cafe terrace in the Uffizi gallery.  This was the first time an LFMSS group has visited this very famous (and very expensive) museum which houses the greatest collection of Italian paintings anywhere.  Highlights include Botticelli's Birth of Venus, and various works by DaVinci, Michaelangelo, Carravagio, and Giotto to name a few.  No photos allowed inside.

 Strolling through the square.

 Having fun in the sun of Florence.

In the famous leather market.  I had no intention of purchasing anything here, but somehow ended up trying on several jackets - the vendors are very persuasive "You sir, would look wonderful in this cut - you must try this on.  Special deal for you because you're a good guy."  etc.   I didn't buy anything, but there was one jacket that I kind of liked -  the salesmen said I looked like "mafia" in it.