FIrst of all, Bologna is an enchanting city. We'd only seen it before from the train window. What a mistake we've made never to get off and explore. In the old center of town, the civic pride of another age makes a spectacular show through its architecture. The unity created by the hundreds of loggias, many with delicate stonework you might only see in a large church, make the old part of town one big, beautiful whole. Christina's apartment is in the middle of it all.
On weekends, the citizens turn out by the thousands, just to stroll the streets, which are closed to vehicular traffic, to meet and greet each other, to enjoy a meal in the twilight, to encourage the street musicians, to rub shoulders with other Bolognese. Just walking about with this huge crowd was as JOYOUS an experience as I've ever had. And, tonic for the soul, the oldest University in Italy, through which you'll walk, is bursting with energetic young people.
Now, when you do get off that train, as you MUST, if your VRBO reservation is with Christina, you will understand what true hospitality is. You will never be welcomed more warmly and personally. She anticipated, and provided for, all our needs thoroughly.....think pantry, refrigerator, bathrooms, music, movies... The clarity of Christina's instructions on how to use her appliances and equipment left no room for doubt or confusion, which we appreciated.
But, let me tell you about the apartment. You've seen the pictures, so you know what it looks like. Although hunting trophies generally turn me off, the animals on the walls seemed to be long dead friends, who were watching over us. And I really liked Christina's loyalty to a personal past.
Everything is as the pictures show, except more so. For instance, I could see my reflection in the stairs as I descended to my bed room. I wish I had as much closet space at home as Christina has provided. The bed and bedding are so comfortable, I slept better in Bologna than anywhere in a long time. The frilly curtain detail over the bed amused me every time I went downstairs. Freddy Mercury on the wall was a delight. (Maybe Bologna just put me in high spirits!) My daughter slept just fine upstairs on a sleeper sofa.
While it's no great loss, we never found any TV in English; however, we didn't ask. Our days were full.
My husband, envious after hearing our stories, can't wait to go stay in Christina's apartment too.
