Championship Diary

Verona is one of Italy's loveliest towns. It's rich in archeological sites and has a beautiful medieval centre. The Roman Arena, where concerts and operas are performed in the summer, is the city's grandest sight (original capacity 20,000), but the so-called 'Juliet's balcony' is a principal port on the Shakespearian tourist trail. You can spend a long time exploring the narrow streets lined with palazzi that make up the historic centre (there's also a mini-train tour if you're feeling lazy). One of them boasts a Damiani jewellery store! Some of the churches contain fine works of art, while the ruined Teatro Romano over the river has excellent views from the terraces where the ancients watched plays. If you are a bridge tourist and want to see more of Italy, Verona is usefully located for Venice or for the lovely Lake Garda. It's easy to travel by public transport from the lake to Verona (bus or train).

If you need to travel sans shuttle then a taxi ride to town will cost no more than 8 Euro. The buses, (23, 24, 51 up till 20.00, then 91 & 98) cost 1 Euro - buy your tickets in advance from a shop or a machine.

Our photographer, Ron Tacchi may well be able to make you famous - but this is not the Cheers Bar - where everyone knows your name - so please wear your badge!

Several people have arrived in Verona sans luggage. It reminded me of the unlucky administrator who flew from Greece to Canada via France. It was a case of breakfast in Athens, lunch in Paris, dinner in Toronto…. and luggage in Tokyo.