Hot and Holy

We have just returned from visiting the Vatican.  In a fit of independance and adventure we decided to go it alone - and not on an excursion (plus they are SO expensive.  They were charging 36 quid for a coach into Rome - we paid 9 Euros each on the train.)  Now Rome is a busy city and the Vatican even moreso and St Peters square was absolutely heaving with people - all queueing up in the mid day sun to get into the Basilica. One of the reasons for the long queues is the airport style security system there.   Caroline had a little swoon (it was really hot) and had to sit down for a bit, but eventually we got in - and it was SO worth it.

I really couldnt do justice to it in words - so Ill post some pics when we get home.  It really was amazing though.  Its HUGE with little chapels off the side where you can sit and pray and monuments to all the past Popes everywhere.  The main altar is absolutely spectacular with a stained glass window of a dove at the back.  We both came out with our necks aching from staring up at the ceiling with its ornate gilt work and painting.

I even managed to splash a little holy water on Caroline, the heathen !

I dont think the Pope was in today, but we waved up at his windows just in case - which surprised a couple of the Vatican Guards - although how can you take a soldier seriously when hes dressed up like a medieval jester complete with stripey tights?

As I may have mentioned before - it was hot.  38 degrees.  And we were starting to wilt so we had a potter around admiring the architecture, and then caught the train back - which takes about an hour.

Sardinia was the same yesterday - very hot. We spent a couple of hours wandering around the shops there and then scuttled back to our air conditioned cabins.  Its a very beautiful island as we saw when the ship left yesterday evening - sitting on the Poop Deck, drink in hand !

We are starting to get into the spirit of things with the evenings entertainment now.  In fact a couple of 'spirits' is all it needs and out come the Bingo cards and Im shouting out about fat ladies like the best of them.  I blame Maza and Barb.  They are such bad influences on us.  I bet by the end of the week Ill be dressing up and doing the conga around the pool.  Thats if I can find a dress to fit by then. 

The food is delicious and it just keeps on coming - meal after meal after meal.  Then sandwiches and cake when its not an 'official' meal time.  We ARE trying to eat healthily - honest - but again we are led astray by other passengers - straight to the desserts.

Tomorrow is La Spezia.

Did I mention its a Naval Base?..........haha !