We arrive at FCO at 7:45am. We are eager to get to Paciano, but patience is key… getting our bags, clearing customs, and picking up a rental car will take a couple of hours. We’ll need cash (Euros) for the tolls on the autostrada, so before leaving the airport we stop at an ATM… this is much easier and cheaper than exchanging currency… and how many of you remember travelers checques?

The drive from Fiumicino to Paciano takes about 2-1/2 hours. Along the way we stop at an Autogrill for a coffee and a snack. We wave to Orvieto as we pass – we;ll be there in a few days to meet our friends. We exit the A1 at Fabro (not as scenic as the Chianciano Terme/Chiusi exit, but faster, and off the autostrada sooner).

We stop at the Famila supermarket for basic provisions, then 15 minutes and we are home! After unpacking and settling in, we walk the 20 meters to the village bar/meeting place – La Sosta Di Giano – in the main piazza to greet our friends and neighbors. Then it is time for a much-needed nap… we need to recharge our batteries for drinks and dinner. It feels great to be home!

It is now about 7pm. Off to Sosta for an aperetivo, then a leisurely stroll through the town on our way to L’OCA Bruciata, where the owner Chiara serves some of the finest pizza you’ll ever eat, and makes you feel right at home. A perfect ending to an exciting day. Buona notte… a domani.