DW and I are heading to Italy in 10 days: 5 nights in Bologna, 5 in Florence, and 4 in Rome. We got our latest Covid and flu shots in late September, and we still mask up on flights. We'll be taking express trains between cities and have already purchased our tickets online to get the best fares.

We're looking forward to this trip very much. It'll be our second time in Bologna, staying in the same apartment we rented last November, and our fourth time in Florence, staying in the same apartment we've rented the past three Novembers. There's still plenty to see and do for us in both cities, as well as simply hanging out and enjoying la dolce vita. In past years the weather has been pleasant enough to walk comfortably outdoors all day long and even dine al fresco (sometimes). The Christmas markets and lights will also be up.

Bologna is not among the top Italian cities visited by tourists, which is fine by us. It's absolutely wonderful: packed with history, totally walkable, the premier university town of Italy, with consonant culture and vibe, and unbeatable food.

DW was in Rome for a few days right after high school but I've never been, and so this promises to be a special treat. Some of the big tourist sites will be undergoing a bit of sprucing up in preparation for the 2025 Jubilee, but there will still be more than enough for us to see and do. We've rented what looks to be a lovely little apartment on a quiet street just northwest of Campo de' Fiori.

One thing that will help us get around Rome conveniently is the recently implemented "Tap and Go" system for public trams, buses, and the metro. You don't need tickets anymore. Just tap with your credit card every time you get on a bus or tram or enter a metro station. The system will automatically check whether you're within the no-charge transfer window and will also charge you the lowest cost for multi-day use. Yay!