So last night we took in the classical concert in the Piazza della Signoria ( a Chinese orchestra playing Strauss waltzes…hmmm…but very up tempo), then down to the banks of the Arno where the seconds to the end of the year we countered down on the Ponte Vecchio, fireworks from up on the hill by the Pizzale Michelangelo, not to mention random fireworks, crackers (and big ones at that) and sparklers and not to mention the shower of Prosecco as bottles were popped. No city sponsored fireworks until the saints day on 24 June. Then up to the roof top bar here in the hotel for a look at the not officail firework going off big time. Couldn’t help but notice some people had their dogs with them – on leads and in handbags. Maybe Italian dogs are more tolerant of fireworks than New Zealand ones….

Fortunately, breakfast was served until 12:00 this morning. So more of a brunch before we headed to walk up to the Pizzale Michelangelo. As mentioned elsewhere, the last time I was up there was in 1967 when we were on our 21 day bus trip as a family through Germany, Italy, France. Part of the six months we had in the UK that year (including boat trips either way). It was quite an bold move on my parents part back then but certianly helped build my love of the history of the UK and Europe.

The PM was the site of one of the bigg concerts last night – quite a bit of evidence of that! After that it was a walk down the hill. On the way down thought we had witnessed a miracle. A pigeon was walking on the water in a fountain pond. It flew off be before I could get a photo. Closer inspection revealed that there was a layer of ice over the pond. Not surprising as it was minus 4 around 8 a.m.

A wander around the streets before a cake and coffee on the Plaza della Repubblica. Late afternoon laziness. Then a final dinner at a nearby restaurant. Three great restaurants less than 5 minutes from the hotel.

Off to Rome tomorrow for six nights before heading home.

Obviously my lottery win will need to be substantial. My flat in Marylebone (though I’ll rent that to Sare at a reasonable but market appropriate rate), my Cottage in Scotland and my Florentine apartment. My needs are few and simple……..

Now a selection of photos….