Day 5

Piazza Pretoria

On my last day I had to go out of the flat from 11.00 on wards (but could leave my bags until I needed them) so the cleaner could start. So I set off late, had a big breakfast at Don Gelato and then went to Piazza Pretoria to see the Fountain and what was left of Teatro Bellini (not a lot as it happens because it was being renovated). I also found the Tourist information office (D'oh!). I then went to buy some gifts (I hope you all enjoyed the biscuits?) from A ma che bonta (I promised to tell others about them - great staff would recommend). I then ran back to the apartment, repacked my bags and headed off on the long walk to Central station to catch the bus to the airport. This time on the bus we got a good view of the sea and all the lovely villages along the coast.

At the airport I was greeted by giant queues. So I join the relevant one and was very British by patiently waiting my turn even though it seem to be going slowly and the time to my flight was getting closer. I got to the check in desk and was told that the flight was delayed. I thought I was ok as I had an over two hour gap at Milan but when I got to my gate having rushed though Security I discovered that our plane was delayed by 2 hours!! I got comfy and when we landed at Milan we were met by a staff member with a sign with City airport on it, so I head over thinking they are going to walk us through security only for her to give us directions. I had already done this so I just set off, thinking the sooner I get to security the better. I join the relevant queue only to find that other people on my flight seem to be in the priority queue. So I jump out of the line and head over there hoping that they are rushing us but the lady at the desk says no! However she lets me through anyway (phew! and proof that you should always ask) and run through Milan Linate to my gate only to find the flight is delayed!! Luckily only half an hour and arriving in Britain we save an hour. I am back home by 11.00 that evening.

Unlike Venice or Budapest, I didn't instantly feel at home but Palermo was still a great experience and I wish I had had a chance to explore more of the island but Palermo had plenty to keep me going.