Graz-E-A Part 1

What a weekend! I don't even know where to begin. No place better than the beginning, I guess.

My journey began at 3 p.m. Friday and was a continuous transfer between public transit modes for 7 hours. I took the Paris metro, to the Paris commuter rail to the CDG Airport. I took a flight from Paris to Milan then took a bus from the Milan Airport to Milano Centrale Station. Then took a 2-hour train to Genoa Brignole station, where Barret met me, and we got on a bus to his neighborhood, Nirvi. I hit every transfer with about 1-5 minutes to spare, so there was never a stopping point. Phew! I'm getting tired just thinking about it!

Highlight of the journey to Genoa: When I was in line to buy a bus ticket to Milano Centrale, there was a younger French guy standing in front of me. He asked for his ticket in a mixture of French/Italian/English, looking very confused. I went next and confidently said, ''Milano Centrale per favore,'' like Barret had taught me. After I got my ticket, the French guy said, ''I think I follow you.'' I laughed and replied, ''umm, I think I follow you.'' We both laughed and decided to keep each other company on the 45-minute bus ride. Despite my excitement and exhaustion, I was able to concentrate enough to speak French 75% of the time. Great practice!

So, now I'm in Genoa - proud of myself for making it through the various modes of transit, and desparately needing a drink. After getting off the bus, Barret and I walked through his neighborhood to the bar where his friends were having a drink. We made a short detour for some gelatto (so good!) and many pictures. Nervi is the resort-like area of Genoa - big cliffs, blue water, bars overlooking the beach, bright colors. An incredibly temperate climate, Genoa's population is heavy in the 60 and over department. The West Palm Beach of Italy, perhaps? The second I saw the waves crashing and smelled the fresh ocean air, I could feel my shoulders lower an entire inch. We had some fruity beach drinks at the bar, and then ventured to another bar for live music. The band was great - all Italian musicians, but only American songs. And really impressive renditions! We didn't stay out too late because everyone was tired, and we wanted to get up early for Cinque Terre on Saturday.

Most important thing I learned on my first day in Genoa: Grazie is pronounced Graz-e-a NOT Graz-e!