We left the resort this morning on our way to Palermo - it was a super early start and I hated to leave the ocean view behind, but alas it was time. Most of the day was driving with a couple of bathroom/lunch stops and one stop at the Valley of Temples. That place was really cool with an intact Greek temple that was still original without having to be rebuilt; it had been converted to a church and therefore saved. It was hot - really hot, but a breeze was blowing and the majority of it was downhill. So while it was miserable it was doable for Mama. I think she enjoyed it despite the heat.
The drive over here from the coast was dotted with gorgeous landscapes and just picturesque scenery.
Once we got to Palermo I was once again taken away by how dirty the cities are; trash is just everywhere. Part of it is they don't really care and part of it is the Mafia controls trash collection. The trash-collecting by the bins - Mafia's fault where they are teaching someone a lesson. The trash littering the streets - is just not something that concerns them. It makes me sad.
After a brief rest, we left for a seafood dinner with all kinds of fish. Jack stayed away and had alternative choices, but I tried everything - some of which I could recognize. I had octopus, squid, swordfish, shrimp, cod, and then 2 or three things I had no idea what they were. I can't say it was my favorite meal, but I tried it and enjoyed the company.
Afterward, there was a gorgeous sunset on the water that was just fabulous.
We then drove back, Mama went to bed and Jack and I wandered down to the city center. It was 9:30 at night and the streets were alive with markets, families, and couples strolling - it was great. This, I told Jack is Italy - not the tourist sights, but this - the heart. I bought some sea glass earrings from a local vendor that will probably turn my ears green and we headed back to get some rest.
Tomorrow we tour Palermo and some areas around it. Until then - sleep well.
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