We took the train from Siena

Heading for Civitavecchia

Two trains and a one hour bus ride to be precise

Italian trains are clean modern and easy for travellers

We were too tired to explore another city

So we opted to have an early dinner

Stopping for a drink at an Irish pub

There were no Irish people in there

But the Italian owner was very friendly

We enjoyed chatting with the locals

In Ireland we would say the crack was good

There is no direct English word for crack

The closest is probably banter

Which translates to battute in Italian

Our battute was mostly about soccer

Swapping stories of famous European cup finals

While drinking Irish stout

Its so easy to connect with people

When you combine sport with alcohol

Inhibitions fall and passions grow

We declared our allegiance to Liverpool FC

Shook hands with the Inter Milan supporters

Then headed off to a local tavern for dinner

We met a group from Canada

They had travelled through Italy by car

Recounting their numerous near death experiences

It seems like most Italian drivers treat all roads like a race track

We were glad we took the train

The next morning was the start of our cruise

A very short taxi ride and a shuttle bus to the port terminal

By 11.30 am were on board the Celebrity Beyond

No more trains, planes, taxis and hotels

No more daily unpacking and repacking

It was time to kick back and relax for 12 days