Dot Smith’s Diary of Tuscany Tour

Saturday 25th October

Tuscany here we come!
Baggage handlers gave us alaugh with their headgear as they loaded up the coach at King John School.
Journey went smoothly and on time. It definitely felt warmer as you got off the plane. Local pizzeria nice and handy for the hotel – well used by us all.

Sunday 26th October

Pisa and Lucca.
Weather was absolutely glorious. Time keeping for coach pick-up pretty good…of course, there’s always one (family) late !
Enjoyed Pisa  -  my first visit. That architecture ! those buildings ! Many of the choir sat and had coffee just looking at the tower.
Lucca  -  just as interesting  -  architecture and general ambience great. The concert was very well received.
I’ve heard of giving all for your art…but wandering  around the church with your trousers over your arm prior to the concert was going a little too far.
P.S.  You know who you are !!!

Monday 27th October.

Florence.
Again, my first visit. What can be said…wonderful, beautiful buildings, beautiful sculptures ..especially David. There was so much to see high overhead that you were forever apologizing as you bumped into people.
Evening dinner at La Pia. Such a good meal with first class service.
The entertainment was most enjoyable. Who was taking the mickey out of who ?
Two certain ladies felt the need to paddle  -  however the only water available was the fountain ! So, you’ve guessed it. Yes, they did!

Tuesday 28th October

Montecatini Terme.
What a good-humoured guide we had. You really wanted to listen to her. A very sedate, if wet, town (other than the spas).
The spa rooms were very beautiful  - especially the “wooden” room.
The evening concert was, as always, well received. Weren’t those children clog dancers amazing!
The afterglow buffet. Well, La Pia surpassed themselves.
Friendly rivalry between the groups was  good to hear. A really great evening.

Wednesday 29th October

Choir members heroic battle against the Tsunami !!!
Deluge, stories of the great flood appeared a little exaggerated – but how would I know !
I must admit it was a great way to spend a wet afternoon.
Competition took place. Who got their underwear the wettest?
Proof to be shown. Prize –Wet suit.

Coach to Pistoia for the concert. Mini tour of town was a bonus….sorry you missed it fellas.
The concert was, as usual, superb. Some of the locals even joined in.

Thursday 30th October.

Chianti Classico
I didn’t go on the trip but a certain “mole” related what a good time was had by all, especially on the way back. Loud singing and a certain gent was hilarious  -  can’t say too much as his wife wasn’t with him  … but, by all accounts, Susie really enjoyed it!!
Whilst they were away the rest of us took the opportunity to ride the funicular up to Montecatini Alto. The views from here are spectacular.
This evening we had our farewell dinner, once more at La Pia. Thanks are due to all the staff there. They were wonderful.
I did think that the new song could have done with some more rehearsal. Sorry lads, but it was terrible!!

Friday 31st October

A very early start. Several people fell asleep on the coach. Journey went well, coach picked us up and we arrived safely at King John School.

Summing up………
A fantastic week, despite the weather, and no complaints that I heard of. Mind you, water sports weren’t on the itinerary but many took part.
This was my first year as a groupie. Did I pass? I do hope so as I would love to go again.
Thank you to Pat & Martin for all the organization and a thank you to you all for being such good company.