Lake Garda, Italy

After negotiating the motorway above Venice we finally arrived at Lake Garda.   We were exhausted and grumpy, really grumpy.    

The traffic was horrendous, as usual, and we were still suffering from shock at the price we paid for diesel on the motorway in Italy, 45 Euros more than we would have paid in the previous four countries for three quarters of a tank of diesel.   In the Netherlands we pay about 1.45 per litre of diesel, as against the 1.77 per litre on the motorway here.   During the past two weeks we were paying between 1.15 to 1.35 Euros per litre.

 When we got to Lake Garda we could not find the campsite we were looking for, an ACSI campsite where we would have received a discount, so had to take another campsite, very large and with tour groups, and the usual tiny sites which you pay dearly for, 28 Euros or more, per night, in shoulder season.  And the wifi connection is deplorable, and very expensive.
 

So we sat and had a really good moan, and felt much better for it.   We are no longer keen on coming to Italy, mainly due to it being such a ‘rip off’ place.   But unfortunately, for us, it was the quickest way across from Slovenia to France, and we knew we would be unable to drive straight across without stopping, as the motorways are so busy, and require a high concentration level for both driver and passenger, and that takes its toll.

 But we have decided to make the best of it, accept the costs involved, and get on with it.   So we went for a walk, and then decided to go out for dinner which was at a little restaurant, right on the edge of the lake, and with a fantastic view across the water.     We started off with a salad for me, and bruschetta for Walter, followed by trout for me, and a crumbed beef affair for Walter.   We had a small glass of red wine each, plus a bottle of sparkling water, and two espressos.   Total bill was 43 Euros, plus tip of course.    It was a lovely meal.

 Before we get back to reality in Italy and France, I would like to recap on some aspects of our short trip through central Europe.    Cost wise there was no comparison to the western part of Europe, as the four countries we visited were very cheap to holiday in, especially using camping grounds.     Standards and service provided, was high in camping grounds and restaurants.   Everywhere we went people were friendly and very helpful, even when there was a language barrier.   The wifi was excellent, and often free.   All four countries have such rich cultures, and history, which they were very keen to share with visitors.   The few museums we visited were fantastic, and offered huge discounts for people over 65 years old, and for families too.  In Budapest transport was free for people over 65 as long as you are from the European Union.   And the scenery was beautiful, even in the rain.

My only regret, is that I left my little Berlitz book of languages behind, as it had all the common words and phrases needed in order to try out a few words in the each country.    Trying to find out how to say hello, good morning, please and thank you, by checking the internet the night before entering the country was not as successful as constantly referring to the little book, especially as I am such a slow learner where languages are concerned.

And language wise, it was good to be on home territory in Italy, and we did breathe a sigh of relief, when we heard Italian being spoken at the first services.  

And as I sit here patiently waiting for the slow connection on the internet, I have a marvellous view over the lake, and can see glittering lights in all directions.   The photograph above was taken this afternoon.   The lake is visible through the trees.

We  have to wear blue wrist bands.   I feel like a tagged prisoner!