Another really cold day – wishing I had brought my red winter coat! The day was bright and sunny, but the wind was a killer. Our guide, Luka, was very good. He showed us the map of how/where the incredible old city was damaged in the 3 months of shelling in 1991-92. What a waste! The sad thing was the tour was largely outside, so I was more focused on adding layers than enjoying the visit! Our last stop was the Rector’s Palace, when we finally got a chance to go into actual rooms vs. inner courtyards (which were colder than you would think). We stayed inside the palace as long as possible before heading out to walk the city walls which were terrific! The sun was out, the water sparkled, and miraculously, the wind STOPPED and the weather became delightful.
In the evening, our group headed out for dinner with several families in a local town. We were split into six groups and I think they gave us the house that was furthest away from the bus. Our host spoke English amazingly well and showed us his family compound where they made olives, olive oils, a BUNCH of kinds of grappa, and a red wine. We got to sample Cherry, Loquat, Walnut, Mulberry/Herb, and straight grappa. He has three kids – looked like about 3, 11, and 13 – and a slim, gorgeous wife. The meal started with bread, olives, procuitto, and cheese, all of which were made by his immediate family or parents. The next course was stuffed cabbage leaves, mashed potatoes and his home-made red wine – what’s not to like? – followed by a dessert of candied nuts and Christmas cookies. The 8th grade daughter joined us for dinner with her dad. At dessert, the rest of the family joined us. Our host plays a stringed instrument – looks like a lute, but plays like a violin and he played for us while the mom and daughter did an impromptu dance. The music, like the night on the boat, was a bit repetitive, but the family was very charming.
No comments:
Post a Comment