Transit Day to Bari

Today was another transit day, and a transition from one form of transport (ferries) to another (rental car).

Ecco qui (like Voila, or here we have) the apparently super appropriate Fiat 500, in planet saving hybrid format and open top no less.

It really needed to be a brighter colour.

Before you conjure up images of beautiful B roads through vineyards and olive trees with our scarves billowing above the open top I'll present some actuals.

Italian drivers (in Puglia), whilst very aware of surroundings, are typically selfish and inconsiderate. Driving between two lanes, constantly changing position as they consider which might be the best way forward for them. 

This actually felt ok to me because the behavior is a lot like the many trail bike rides we used to go on where hundreds of bikes jostle for position in a collective urge to go forward. 

However, participation collapsed due to a total lack of 'go' from the less than mighty Hybrid 500!

I couldn't hear any contribution from the tiny motor nor feel any surge from a battery.

A greater problem for the romance of cruising rural lanes was the very poor state of the B and C roads. It seems to be an anecdote of a nation that almost ran out of money in the 1990's after spending $100 but earning $75 for too long.

Bless Google for their global mapping efforts; very impressive.

We arrived safely in Bari (* via the beautiful Castelmezzano)

City driving in Bari isn't much fun. It would be much better on a scooter.

This isn't is looking for a park, we are wondering if we will get through! (We did carefully with about 6 inches spare each side)

Fortunately we didn't meet these chaps whilst on the road.

Bari describes a few highlights, mostly linked to the historical quarter and the coast but we have seen enough old churches etc for now. 

The modern centre of Bari is actually a disappointment. To us the appearance is unclean, unmaintained and losing respect for itself.

Graffiti is a problem the world over but it compounded our poor impression whilst here. 

Here are some flowers to lift the spirit as the end of today's blog 😊