Episode 1: Florence in Florence
I slept twice and woke up in Florence. When I say I slept twice I mean that I was unconscious for two large blocks of time and awoke once in Parma to eat lunch and then magically was in Florence, Italy. Really, it was like all my dreams of teleportation travel kinda came true.
While I slept hard in transit the main question before departure (as ALWAYS) was what to wear that would travel seamlessly during a long car journey AND not let me down upon arrival. I settled on a mid-weight - therefore not totally crushable, sleeveless linen shirtdress from Maison Miaki.
The devil is in the details and so this simple but versatile dress is a piece that I felt as comfortable driving (or rather being unconscious while being driven) in as I did stepping into the lobby of the Westin Excelsior to check in successfully, secure an upgrade and enjoy a fruity mocktail before our preliminary stroll. The quality of fabric, band collar, slightly dropped split hem and optional belt allowed for an appropriate presentation from 8a.m. till…with only a change of shoes to elevate or deescalate the look.
I haven’t quite enjoyed discovering such a storied place in a long time. The pedestrian city is compact and easy to navigate especially for someone as directionally challenged as I. Around every corner was something that I had read of or wanted to see. The walk from the hotel to the center of town necessitated a stop and gasp at the famed Ponte Vecchio. My first glimpse of the Duomo of Florence, Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral or Florence Cathedral was from an alley. I am convinced that every major work of architecture seen for the first time should have a sense of “ta-da”, and therefore, one must arrange if one can to have the “ta-d” through a darkened alley or from around a corner unexpectedly. The “ta-da” of the Duomo was only heightened by a street performance by a man with a rich baritone voice performing several well known arias. I must admit in a moment of overwhelm, tears did escape my eyes. I will never, I think, accustom myself to the fact that I am so fortunate to able to have such experiences.
On the fashion front, we stumbled into the Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura without even trying. I was eager to reserve however, I did think it would be too much time out of our busy days and decidedly too much Gucci for my companion. I will save this experience for a solo trip (which I am already planning). My linen dress and I did press up against the window though and admire the fine china on which I imagine delectable things were served and countless style and fashion books being sold within.
The night ended in a frenzy to enjoy every last drop of the day even though we were past tired. I ordered the most wonderful loose peppermint tea. A negroni arrived for my companion. Even though my decidedly overly sensible choice was scoffed at it was a calming end to a beautiful day with the piano man playing “Satin Doll”.
Next time on “Florence” …
The travelers unexpectedly shift plans to address a beloved Crayola crayon and discover that black and white really do look good on everything.
