It’s an age thing. I feel I ought to be able to say something profound with the experience I have. But there is nothing to say.

Ah well.

In past times, when we were in places like Siena or Pienza, where we were last weekend, we would have visited museums, seen churches, been awed by frescoes, etc. This time, to be honest, I was more interested in wandering without purpose, tasting various foodstuffs and beverages, enjoying the sunshine and life.

However, the highlight of it all was the lunchtime meal we had in San Gimignano. A had asked someone in a shop for a recommendation and had booked a table at, what the woman had said, was the ONLY place to eat.

It seated about 30 people in total and ran everything in shifts. We had to wait a little for our table but it was worth it. The food was fabulous with good wine (although, as I was driving back that evening, I only had a little) and a nice ambience.

So, as it’s a place that British tourists go to quite often, I will tell you that it is called Chiribiri (pronounced kiri biri). It’s just inside one of the main gates to the city, on the left and up some steps. It’s tiny but perfectly formed. Do go if you get the chance. The prices are very reasonable. For the full 4 courses, including wine and water, we paid only about €30 per head.

Although we didn’t have it, the Fiorentia (big Tuscan steaks that, if they are good and cooked correctly (very rare) are just incredible) looked really good. The stuff we had was cooked to perfection and was all really fresh. V could see into the kitchen and commented on how everything was made from scratch, from fresh ingredients.

So we didn’t see the frescoes/churches/museums. I’m sure they were all superb. But I really don’t want to be queuing up for hours to see something that isn’t special enough. I would rather be out in the sunshine, watching the people, with a nice glass of wine.

And tonight, as a celebration, we may go to the sushi restaurant, Sento, which is round the corner from us and rather good. I really should write up about the restaurants that I reckon are good, in case you visit Milan or any of the places we visit.

Maybe we’ll hold a big party later in the year? Maybe June?