It’s difficult to leave Florence but today we join the St. John tour and will be back in a few days with the group. We talked with our host, Alessandra,
It’s good to see previous travel friends and meet new companions that will soon become friends also. Robert gathers our group, gives a few welcoming comments and we’re off in a limo van to one of Florence’s local favorites restaurant, Cebreo Caffe.
The Caffe is located behind one of Florence’s town markets and tucked away in a bustling area that would be difficult to locate if you didn’t know the city. The restaurant is small and very Italian. The food is big and very Italian, and it came in waves. Five maybe six courses of appetizers, entrees and desserts; I lost count. I ate several items that were “first timers”, never seen them before. Most were tasty, but I would say the meal was best for those with highly educated palates. I enjoyed every offering and tried all, but in a couple of instances my palate was a few quality points shy of graduation. I applaud Robert for challenging his client/friends with new experience in travel and food. It is building my QPA.
We motored to Tavernelle and located our lodging that happens to be in a barn. A very nice barn. Anna Gloria and Enzo have developed a guest villa that is a very special blend of old Tuscan with the conveniences of uptown Italian. 
Did I mention the views? Nearby rolling hills, purple mountains on the horizon, and blank spaces covered with grey green olive groves and bright colored vineyards. The sunset last evening
capped an exiting start to our Tuscan holiday.
We gathered for cocktails on the patio overlooking the lights of the valley at dusk on farm houses so hidden by the greenery we were surprised to know they existed.
Dinner was casual buffet. We served our plates, found a spot to light and enjoyed our new travel partners. As an added treat, we watched the chefs build the gourmet dishes. The ladies showed us they knew what they were doing. Tomorrow, Jim