Episodio 1/30

@ Frecce Tricolori
Qing Qing (Shining) begins her tour of "Central Italy" by downloading a map of specially chosen locations!
Italy - Central
The pets have a very varied tour taking in the magnificence of Rome and Vatican City, romantic Florence, and also Siena, and the vineyards of Tuscany. They will come across another very stylish icon of the Italian automobile industry! There will be opportunities to explore winding backstreets with a choice of Italian eateries! Other sights are Cinque Terre, with its colourful jumble of houses, and for sea-lovers, visits to coastal lighthouses, including one in Genoa. One exciting point will be viewing a flypast of the Frecce Tricolori, the Italian airforce aerobatic fleet!
Frecce Tricolori
The Frecce Tricolori is the aerobatic demonstration team of the Italian Air Force. The team flies the Aermacchi MB-339-A/PAN, a two-seat fighter-trainer craft capable of 898 km/h (558 mph) at sea level. With ten aircraft, nine in close formation and a soloist, they are the world's largest acrobatics patrol, and their flight schedule, comprising about twenty acrobatics in about half an hour, trailing plumes in green, white and red, made them the most famous in the world. It is one of national symbols of Italy.

Episodio 2/30

@ Son Repos
"It says in our brochure that Italy has produced many luxury sports cars, such as Ferrari, Lamborghini, Alfa Romeo and Maserati. That's impressive, isn't it, George?" remarked Qing Qing (Shining).
"Well, they certainly are amazing, Qing Qing (Shining)," responded George. "But I'd rather own a little Fiat 500! They are terminally cute!"
Son Repos
This sleepy kitty has found the perfect spot for a snooze on this wide, sun-baked step!

Episodio 3/30

@ Dark Wood
Qing Qing (Shining) and Riley were entranced on reaching this Mediterranean viewpoint and eagerly posed for a picture standing on either side!
Dark Wood
With the sun sinking like fire on the horizon, mind you don't get lost in this gloomy looking wood!

Episodio 4/30

@ Lamborghini Experience
“You know, I'd like to spend a whole week in this region here, Qing Qing (Shining)!” said Waylon.
"It's very pleasant indeed—but you never know, the next part of the tour might be even better!" replied Qing Qing (Shining).
Lamborghini Experience
The Lamborghini Museum is now the Museum of Technologies, where fascinating history, the iconic models and tours of the production lines tell the story of over 50 years of innovation that project Lamborghini into the future. Mudetec (Via Modena, 12 40019 Sant'Agata Bologna, Italy) offers an interactive experience, also thanks to the new driving simulator that amplifies the thrills and the discovery of the vehicles on display. From the early visionary creations of the genius of Ferruccio Lamborghini like the Miura and Countach to the more recent and exclusive super sports cars like the hybrid concept Asterion, the few-off Centenario, the Huracán Performante and the Aventador SVJ. Experience the emotion with new augmented reality!

Episodio 5/30

@ Abruzzo Bougainvillea
“Wouldn't it be lovely to live in a lighthouse like this one pictured in our itinerary in Genoa? So romantic!" mused Qing Qing (Shining), sipping a leisurely espresso.
"Well, I don't know," said Icy. "It's not all about drinking coffee and gazing at the sea. You have run up and down stairs to operate the light and the foghorn, and there may be no running water or electricity apart from a generator."
Qing Qing (Shining) considered this. "Mine would be a luxurious, converted, non-operational lighthouse, then."
Abruzzo Bougainvillea
Abruzzo has a long history of pasta-making and has produced handmade spaghetti alla chitarra (guitar spaghetti) for more than 200 years. This variety of egg pasta is pushed through a wooden contraption that has stainless steel guitar-like strings.

Episodio 6/30

@ Trastevere Bridge at Night
"A bit of trivia here, Pynelope!" remarked Qing Qing (Shining), reading from their tour brochure. "Can you name two films that popularised the Vespa as the ultimate way to explore Italy?"
"I don't think I can, Qing Qing (Shining)!"
"Well, to be fair, they were both from before we were born. The 1953 film, Roman Holiday, and La Dolce Vita in 1960. It says the latter is a particularly good film."
"We'll have to see if we can watch them when we get back," said Pynelope.
Trastevere Bridge at Night
A beautiful Rome 0sunset over the Trastevere bridge overlooking St Peter's Dome, with lights shimmeringly reflected in the River Tiber.

Episodio 7/30

@ Via dei Coronari, Rome
"Milan is widely considered to be the fashion capital of the world. Many internationally renowned fashion brands are based in Milan, including Dolce & Gabbana, Armani and Prada. Quadrilatero della Moda is the high-end fashion district in Milan that contains luxury brands and exclusive fashion boutiques. It’s one of the most expensive shopping streets in the world," read out Lucky from the itinerary.
"We'll have to take care not to go too mad there, Lucky!" responded Qing Qing (Shining). "Perhaps a designer T-shirt!"
"Hmm—I think a designer bath cube will be more within my budget!" remarked Lucky.
Via dei Coronari, Rome
A detail of the architecture in the Via dei Coronari, which is situated near the River Tiber in Rome, close to several elegant Piazzas, museums, restaurants and bars.

Episodio 8/30

@ Bridge over the River Tiber
"That was a lovely risotto we had for supper last night, wasn't it, Stella?" remarked Qing Qing (Shining).
"On our table the waiter explained that risotto is a rice dish with origins in Lombardy. It’s cooked in a broth to make it creamy. It must be made with a short-grain variant of Italian rice, usually Arborio, as this absorbs less water and gives the risotto a sticky texture," said Stella.
Bridge over the River Tiber
As the sun sets, the lights of the bridge spanning the Tiber are reflected in the waters, adding romance to the scene. A barge awaits its passengers eager for a sunset trip down the river.

Episodio 9/30

@ Roman Sunset
"It's turned a bit hot, Qing Qing (Shining). I'm going to put my sunhat on," said Esmeralda.
"Good scheme! I'll dig mine out as well," said Qing Qing (Shining).
Roman Sunset
The foundation for a great deal of Western culture comes from that of Ancient Rome, in particular in engineering, architecture, government, language and literature.

Episodio 10/30

@ Three Coins in the Trevi Fountain
"We'll be seeing a bit of everything here in Italy," remarked Hershel. "You could say, from Giotto to gelato!"
"That pistachio gelato we had last night was superb!" marvelled Qing Qing (Shining). "You can certainly tell the difference between Italian ice cream and the mass produced stuff we have at home!"
Three Coins in the Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is the largest, and most beautiful, fountain in Rome. Why are there always pets throwing coins into the water? A myth, originating in 1954 with the movie "Three Coins in the Fountain," goes like this: If you throw one coin: you will return to Rome.
If you throw two coins: you will fall in love with an attractive Italian.
If you throw three coins: you will marry the person that you met.

Around €1 m of coins are taken from the fountain each year. Since 2007 this money has been used to support good causes.

Episodio 11/30

@ Flag of Vatican City
“Oh hello, Qing Qing (Shining)!” cried Esmerelda. “Didn’t we bump into each other in Scotland back in the spring? This is quite the change of scene, isn't it!”
Flag of Vatican City
The Vatican is a city state independent of Italy, ruled by the Pope, the head of the Catholic Church. The coat of arms depicts the papal tiara and the two keys which represent the Keys of Heaven (according to the Gospel of Matthew 16:19) given by Jesus Christ to St Peter.

Episodio 12/30

@ Holy See Spiral
"A bit of trivia here, Dusty!" remarked Qing Qing (Shining), reading from their tour brochure. "Can you name two films that popularised the Vespa as the ultimate way to explore Italy?"
"I don't think I can, Qing Qing (Shining)!"
"Well, to be fair, they were both from before we were born. The 1953 film, Roman Holiday, and La Dolce Vita in 1960. It says the latter is a particularly good film."
"We'll have to see if we can watch them when we get back," said Dusty.
Holy See Spiral
The modern 'Bramante' spiral stairs of the Vatican Museums, designed by Giuseppe Momo in 1932. The modern double helix staircase, also in the Pio-Clementine Museum, was inspired by the original Bramante Staircase. This staircase, like the original, is a double helix, having two staircases allowing people to ascend without meeting people descending; as with the original, the main purpose of this design is to allow uninterrupted traffic in each direction. It encircles the outer wall of a stairwell approximately 15m (45ft) wide and with a clear space at the centre. The balustrade around the ramp is of ornately worked metal. A canopy located above provides the necessary light to illuminate the stairs. The staircase is located at the end of the museum visit and all visitors leave by this route.

Episodio 13/30

@ Villa d'Este
“Oh hello, Qing Qing (Shining)!” cried Willow. “Didn’t we bump into each other in Scotland back in the spring? This is quite the change of scene, isn't it!”
Villa d'Este
Overlooking one of the most romantic lakes in the world, Lake Como, Villa d’Este is surrounded by a wonderful 10-hectare private park. The rooms and suites, overlooking the lake or the park, are divided into two buildings: the Cardinal Building and the Queen’s Pavilion. Windows and terraces overlooking the lake, with exceptional views of the marina and boats quietly returning to shore in the evening. What a dream scenario!

Episodio 14/30

@ Montecastrilli
"Choose a name," gulped Qing Qing (Shining) apprehensively, "Have you seen this item on the itinerary? We'll be going to see an active volcano, Mount Vesuvius, on the Naples leg!"
"Don't worry, Qing Qing (Shining)!" said Choose a name reassuringly. "It's not erupted since 79 CE. Admittedly, on that occasion, it did wipe out the Roman city of Pompeii and an estimated three million inhabitants, but today Mount Vesuvius is a large national park that attracts tourists wanting to hike up to the top and take a look inside. The brochure says the trail to the top is beginner-friendly and about a 2½ mile (4km) round trip."
Montecastrilli
Montecastrilli is one of the more characteristic walled hilltop villages of Umbria. In the village, the structure of the city walls framed by a series of crenellated towers can be seen, with two gates opening in the walls.

Episodio 15/30

@ Lake Trasimeno, Perugia
Half way through Qing Qing (Shining)'s tour of "Central Italy", she finds a special prize!
Arctic River
The Arctic River shimmers brightly under the full moon, a guiding beacon to any pet in the night. Camp by its gentle waters, letting the soothing sound of the current lull you to sleep.
Lake Trasimeno, Perugia
Lake Trasimeno, Italy's fourth largest lake, is located in Umbria in the province of Perugia, near the border with Tuscany and the river Tiber. Lovers of the outdoors are sure to enjoy a trip to Lake Trasimeno. Its waters are good for swimming; its surrounding valleys and the three islands within the lake feature pristine environments. A 50-km bicycle path circling the lake was opened in 2003, providing a fun, environmental-friendly way to explore the lake. Mountain bikers can take advantage of the cross-country paths, especially over the hills on the eastern side. Sailing and windsurfing are also popular sports here. Half of Trasimeno is surrounded by hills, planted with olive trees. Vineyards dot the western shore, near the border with Tuscany.

Episodio 16/30

@ Mediaeval Montepulciano
"'Bella Italia!'" read out Serena from their tour brochure. " 'A country in which you will be swept off your paws by quaint seaside villages, pastoral countryside, idyllic islands, dramatic mountains and ancient historic cities. It's easy to understand why Bella Italia is one of the most romantic destinations in the world.'"
Qing Qing (Shining) settled back in her tour bus seat. "It's certainly been all that so far, Serena!"
Mediaeval Montepulciano
Montepulciano is a mediaeval town of rare beauty highly recommended visiting in Tuscany. The city, full of elegant Renaissance palaces, ancient churches, charming squares and hidden corners, boasts vast panoramas all over the wonderful Val d'Orcia and Val di Chiana valleys that surround it. Montepulciano has received great attention following the filming of the vampire saga Twilight sequel New Moon here and has seen a notable increase in visitors.

Episodio 17/30

@ Tutti Frutti
“Let's hope Foxy doesn't get as seasick as he did on the Irish Sea, Qing Qing (Shining)!” said Stella, studying the future itinerary.
"Can you get seasick on a lake?" asked Qing Qing (Shining).
"Oh yes, indeedy," said Stella.
Tutti Frutti
This tiny Tuscan fruiterer's shop offers fresh local produce and perhaps some delicious additions to your pet's picnic lunch!

Episodio 18/30

@ Tuscan Coastal Town
"It would be great to live on a houseboat in Italy!" said Jasper enthusiastically. "You can sail round most of the country, and when you get tired, just moor the boat and hop in a bunk!"
Qing Qing (Shining) considered this carefully. "I don’t think houseboats are designed to go on the sea, Jasper. You’d have to get a proper yacht, or something.”
Tuscan Coastal Town
Piombino is located in the final stretch of the Etruscan Coast, which begins at the height of Livorno, 100 km further north.
In the early 1800s, Napoleon Bonaparte assigned Piombino to his sister who became regent of the Principality of Lucca and Piombino. The Princess of Piombino used to call the city "my little Paris" and during her reign the town had a period of great splendour. Built over the sea, Piombino has always been a naval base. Today, the city’s port is used for freight transport, but also as a marina.
From the port of Piombino you can catch one of the many ferries that go direct to the islands of the Tuscan Archipelago (Elba Island is just 10km from the coast!), as well as those to Sardinia and Corsica.

Episodio 19/30

@ Sun-baked Terrace
"Milan is widely considered to be the fashion capital of the world. Many internationally renowned fashion brands are based in Milan, including Dolce & Gabbana, Armani and Prada. Quadrilatero della Moda is the high-end fashion district in Milan that contains luxury brands and exclusive fashion boutiques. It’s one of the most expensive shopping streets in the world," read out Reynard from the itinerary.
"We'll have to take care not to go too mad there, Reynard!" responded Qing Qing (Shining). "Perhaps a designer T-shirt!"
"Hmm—I think a designer bath cube will be more within my budget!" remarked Reynard.
Sun-baked Terrace
A delightful little green-shuttered restaurant, where you can sit outside with a meal and cold drink, shaded from the sun by the ample tree foliage.

Episodio 20/30

@ Florentine Pizzeria
“Let's practise some of these Italian phrases in our brochure, Qing Qing (Shining). I'll ask you what your name is! Come si chiama, Lei?” asked Bentley.
“No, my name isn't 'Lei'," replied Qing Qing (Shining), somewhat irritated. "Why are you asking that? Anyway—Mi chiamo Qing Qing (Shining)."
"It doesn't mean, 'What's your name, Lei?'" responded Bentley indignantly. "The whole thing means 'What is your name?'"
Qing Qing (Shining) seized the phrasebook. "Doesn't make sense, going round asking pets if they're called 'Lei'", she grumbled.
Bentley sighed heavily. "Let's try another one instead."
Florentine Pizzeria
The Rooster and the Fox is the name of this pizzeria in Florence, and it looks just the place to relax over your favourite pasta dish after a hard day's sightseeing!

Episodio 21/30

@ Florentine Sunrise
Nazareth was distracted by the sounds of loud rustling as Qing Qing (Shining) unfolded a very large tourist map, in the course of which she succeeded in knocking Nazareth’s hat off. “Put that away, do!” said Nazareth, irritated. “We’re about to pose on either side of this amazing scene—the picture will all be of your map if you don’t fold it up pronto!”
Florentine Sunrise
As the sun rises palely pink, shining on the Renaissance domes of Florence, the city wakes up and the pets have another day of sightseeing amongst beautiful buildings.

Episodio 22/30

@ Florentine Panorama
“You know, I'd like to spend a whole week in this region here, Qing Qing (Shining)!” said Elvis.
"It's very pleasant indeed—but you never know, the next part of the tour might be even better!" replied Qing Qing (Shining).
Florentine Panorama
A panorama of Florence, taking in its historic and beautiful bridges, architecture and church and cathedral domes.

Episodio 23/30

@ Cinque Terre, Italy
"Milan is widely considered to be the fashion capital of the world. Many internationally renowned fashion brands are based in Milan, including Dolce & Gabbana, Armani and Prada. Quadrilatero della Moda is the high-end fashion district in Milan that contains luxury brands and exclusive fashion boutiques. It’s one of the most expensive shopping streets in the world," read out Phillip from the itinerary.
"We'll have to take care not to go too mad there, Phillip!" responded Qing Qing (Shining). "Perhaps a designer T-shirt!"
"Hmm—I think a designer bath cube will be more within my budget!" remarked Phillip.
Cinque Terre, Italy
A beautiful mix of colourful houses are a Mediterranean delight!

Episodio 24/30

@ Italian Vineyard
Qing Qing (Shining) and Mr. Panda were entranced on reaching this Mediterranean viewpoint and eagerly posed for a picture standing on either side!
Italian Vineyard
Some luscious grapes ripening in the Tuscan sun ready to be turned into wine.

Episodio 25/30

@ Tuscan Sunset
Qing Qing (Shining) flicked through the phrasebook. “The tour guide at the door of the museum this morning said Prego! as she ushered us all in. She said it meant ‛After you'. I asked her especially.”
“It's one of those terms that mean a number of things: ‛you're welcome', ‛don't mention it', ‛not at all', ‛after you!'. For example, if I reached for your bottle of orange juice you'd say, “Prego!—meaning ‛Please! Help yourself!”
“No, I wouldn't. I'd jolly well tell you to get your paws off it,” grumbled Qing Qing (Shining). “It's very confusing, having just one word covering half a dozen situations.”
“Would you rather have to learn half a dozen different phrases, like you'd have in English, to cover each one?”
Qing Qing (Shining) thought about it for a while. “You may have a point there, Choose a name!” she said.
Tuscan Sunset
The sun sinks after another grape-ripening hot day in Tuscany.

Episodio 26/30

@ Florentine Wine Country
“Let's practise saying 'hello' in Italian," said Choose a name.
"That's an easy one—Ciao!” said Qing Qing (Shining), beaming happily.
"Mm—yes, and mmm—no," replied Choose a name. "You should only say Ciao to pets you know very well. You mustn't say it to somepet's grandmother who you haven't met before, and you shouldn't walk into a shop and say it. It's far too informal."
“So what do you say then?" queried Qing Qing (Shining), somewhat grumpily.
"The simplest thing to say to friends or strangers to greet them is Salve!" replied Choose a name.
Florentine Wine Country
Welcome to the forests, hills and lush green valleys of Florence's wine-producing region.

Episodio 27/30

@ Tuscan Wine Cellar
"... the texture of fairy floss, the scent of fresh grapes and orange blossom and the mouthwatering flavour of lemon sherbet, green apples and juicy peaches. Sounds lovely, doesn't it, Shelby?" remarked Qing Qing (Shining).
"I'm sorry, I missed the first part of what you were saying. Is it a gelato flavour?" asked Shelby.
Qing Qing (Shining) chuckled. "No, not gelato. That was a description of Asti Spumante, a delicious sparkling wine from Piedmont. Along with Lambrusco and Prosecco, it's a popular budget alternative to champagne."
Tuscan Wine Cellar
When planning your Italian food and wine tour, you must include at least one Tuscan winery! Perhaps it will be a legendary Chianti estate or a tasting at a Super-Tuscan vineyard.

Episodio 28/30

@ Siena Dwellings
"The tour guide said we'll be visiting Il Duomo. I asked her what that was and she said it meant 'the cathedral' in Italian. But there are lots of cathedrals in Italy!" remarked Qing Qing (Shining).
"When they say Il Duomo they most often mean the one in Florence, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. It says in our brochure it was first built in the 13th century, with the dome added in the 15th century. It has a pink, white and green exterior in a gothic style with a large dome on top. Sounds beautiful!" remarked Katrice.
Qing Qing (Shining) mused for a minute. "I guess it's like when we were touring England last spring, everypet in London would talk about 'The Monument'—to the Great Fire of London of 1666—as if there were only one monument in the whole of London, instead of thousands!"
Siena Dwellings
Siena is a medieval city in the region of Tuscany, located in the north of Italy some 70 km (43 miles) south of Florence.

Episodio 29/30

@ Camogli Lighthouse
“Wouldn't it be lovely to live in a lighthouse like this one pictured in our itinerary in Genoa? So romantic!" mused Qing Qing (Shining), sipping a leisurely espresso.
"Well, I don't know," said Jubb Jubb. "It's not all about drinking coffee and gazing at the sea. You have run up and down stairs to operate the light and the foghorn, and there may be no running water or electricity apart from a generator."
Qing Qing (Shining) considered this. "Mine would be a luxurious, converted, non-operational lighthouse, then."
Camogli Lighthouse
For sea history enthusiasts, Camogli’s Marine Museum is worth a visit. Scuba-diving pets should don flippers and check out some of the numerous grottoes here.

Episodio 30/30

@ Tuscan Vineyard
As Qing Qing (Shining)'s tour of "Central Italy" comes to an end, she rests under a shady tree and looks back on a perfect day.
Soft Azure Slopped Waterfall
Tall and intimidating, this waterfall flows a gorgeous azure over its rounded rocks, falling into the shallow basin below.
Tuscan Vineyard
One of the many vineyards in the famous wine-producing region of Tuscany. The grapes require constant care as the ripen, ready for picking and turning into wine.
Qing Qing (Shining) has completed their tour of "Central Italy"! Please select another pet as visitor, so it can also tour part of Italy!