Day 3: From Nice to Turin
- Kathy Orbie
- Jun 4
- 3 min read
It feels like my suitcase is getting heavier by the day. That must be because of all the sweat sticking to it by now… ;)
On today's schedule: first from Nice to Ventimiglia, and then transferring to the train to Turin.
It's going to be a long day on the train today, so I'll start by stocking up on provisions for the journey. And plenty of drinks, especially lots of drinks. Then off to the station quickly, because I want to secure a strategic window seat again.
I'm probably repeating myself again, but the first stretch along the Mediterranean is (yet again) a true feast for the eyes. I gaze in wonder at all the luxury boats bobbing in the bays. After all, we are in Monaco for a reason.... ;)
Nearby, two men are engaged in an animated conversation, and I can't immediately guess what language they are speaking. Curious as I am, I ask them directly. Wouldn't I like to take a guess? I'm always up for a challenge, but I don't want to offend them either. I'm torn between Switzerland and something Scandinavian. It turns out they are Norwegians. They are here for work and are taking the opportunity today to make a trip to Monaco. In turn, they ask where I come from. Now it is up to them to guess, so they ask if I would say something in my own language. I think to myself, they will never in their lives get this right. Ahem. With slightly embarrassed cheeks, I have to revise my opinion. They hit the nail on the head immediately! Just listen along...
Apparently, one of them had a Dutch mother. It just goes to show what a global language Dutch is, doesn't it.... ;)
Upon arriving in Ventimiglia, I take my first steps on Italian soil. What a delightful language Italian is. I learned my first words at "The Volvo". Years ago, I worked there at Volvo Action Service, the telephone breakdown service for Volvo Trucks that had broken down. I worked there for France, but was asked if I wanted to take on Italy as well. Now, personally, I am not averse to a challenge, but there was a small detail: I didn't speak Italian?! Oh well, according to them, I would pick it up naturally.
Mwaaaah… that was really disappointing at first. I might have a knack for languages, but distinguishing the parts of a truck on my own is a whole different ball game. I’ve even ripped my hair out of sheer frustration doing it. :) But look, years later it’s actually coming in handy, and by now I can manage quite well. Although words like "cuscinetto reggsipinta" (thrust bearing, basically) aren't really of use to me anymore. ;)
I devour my salad with relish and get ready for the next leg of the journey: Ventimiglia to Turin. That did not go without a hitch. There were a few troublemakers on the train without a valid ticket. The conductor was unforgiving: the police were called in and they were unceremoniously removed from the train at the next stop.
After that, everything proceeded quietly and we were once again enjoying ourselves to the fullest:
After a few hours on the train, it arrives at the day's final destination: Turin. I check into a hotel with wonderfully creaking old plank floors and head into the city for a bit.
I think I've earned a drink. If only to keep my fluids up in this hot weather. Any excuse... ;)
What strikes me is that I am the only one (ahem…) tapping away on my phone. Everyone is chattering and gesticulating away. Tables are being pushed together and new friendships are being forged.
Yesterday I still wanted to emigrate to Marseille, but I think it's going to be Italy now after all. ;)
The fact that an Aperol Spritz costs only 5 (!) euros here obviously has nothing to do with it…
And just like that, the day has flown by again. Sicily isn't immediately in sight, but I've made quite a bit of progress:
And to finish, the obligatory statistics:
Good night!
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