Ciao

Interesting takeaway from the weekend: the word "ciao" meaning both hi and bye in italian is derived from the word "schiavo" meaning "slave". So entomologically speaking each time you say ciao you are (generously) saying "i am you slave / at your service".

The other takeaway is that the mountains in the north of Italy are spectacular. Photos to come!

Ciao ciao!

384 hours in Australia (16 days)

Day 1: arrive long haul flight. But it's all worth it as the sun is shining and a dry warm wave of air greets you together with the embrace of family at the terminal exit. That and breakfast at the Adelaide Central Markets - eating Green Eggs and Ham (by Dr Seuss) and a flat white

Day 2: Find a spot to sit (The Adelaide Uni Boat Club is the best vantage point) and watch the "Tour Down Under" the only UCI Pro Tour in the southern hemisphere and the start of the season for the riders who will soon be tackling the long lumpy roads of France.

Day 3: Head down to Aldinga, on the Fleurieu Peninsula, for a bite to eat the Victory Hotel and then have an icecream at the Star of Greece over looking some of the most glorious beaches in South Australia