In Full Relaxation Mode

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Got another slow start to the day. Partly because I've been fighting a sore throat the past couple of days and am feeling kinda crappy and partly because we're getting into the Italian Riveria lifestyle. It's going to be tough to leave. Being in the Cinque Terra is like being on a vacation while being on a vacation. Our biggest decision is where to wander, what to eat, go to the beach, or swim in the sea.

Today we decided to visit the last of the 5 towns, Riomaggiore. We decided to walk between Manarolo to Riomiaggore as it's only a half hour along a trail called Via dell'Amore (translation: lovers lane). It is stunning as it winds along the cliffs high above the sea. It didn't disappoint.

Riomaggiore didn't either. It has achieved third place (behind Vernazza and Manarolo) for us in terms of ranking the 5 towns. We had delicioso pizza at a pizzeria filled with locals. We then wandered back to Manarolo after admiring all the olive oils, fresh pasta and pesto sauces (yes, I'm obsessed with pesto!) and enjoyed a gelato while watching swimmers in the grotto.

This afternoon is going to be pretty laid back - yikes, it's almost 4pm! Time for a nap! And dinner will be in Vernazza at another seaside restaurant. Trying to fight this cold and enjoy our last couple of days in paradise before we head to Nice to meet up with John's friend Giovanni. His family's place is in Villefranche Sur Mer which is supposed to be really nice. Think we're going to head to Monte Carlo with him during our stay as well. So we'll be coming home soon but will be sad to leave bella Italia.

Miss you all!!

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