N I G H T S T O PS Exploring the beautiful city of Bologna By First Officer Victoria Bottomley, Log Board member A delicious taste of Italy A ccording to Lord Byron, Bologna is celebrated for producing popes, painters, and sausage. So, what is one to do when one finds oneself there for 30 hours-plus? If youve read any of my previous Night Stops articles, you may have noticed that I am a fan of exploring, and I am keen to make the most of every minute. So, I couldnt believe my luck when I picked up a 35-hour Bologna standover with a positioning flight home on day three. It was the golden block of work [insert angel song]. Unfortunately for the captain, the flight was an airport standby surprise. We arrived fairly late in the evening, after the traditional Italian tailwind approach, so, unfortunately, we got no further than the hotel bar on our first night. In the morning, however, we took the opportunity to waltz around in the glorious sunshine. Thankfully, the captain was not yet aware how chatty I am, and selflessly agreed to be my guide during the trip. Our crew hotel was situated close to Parco della Montagnola, and its worth stopping by if you are in the area. This is the oldest park in the city, having been open since 1664. With old ruins and some steps commissioned by Napoleon, this is a lovely spot to stretch your legs and snap some pictures. As a caffeine addict, however, I would always recommend starting your morning with a coffee - but beware the Italian rules of coffee consumption! In the past, my Italian friends have almost choked when Ive ordered a cappuccino in their presence after midday (see box, When in Italy on page 49, to avoid such a fate). There are heaps of places to go for espresso, although I visited a spot on the Via Augusto Righi, close to the Finestra sul Canale. This little gem is literally a hole in the wall that acts as a secret window overlooking the canal. Its not quite a Venice view, but it still makes an interesting photo if youre in the area. Next door is Trattoria La Finestrella, a restaurant named after the spot. This place has a pasta menu that is several pages long and does not disappoint. A fun little fact I discovered here, the Bolognese have no idea what affogato is. When we described it at the restaurant, we were provided with some coffee and ice cream in what looked like a cereal bowl. We ate it out of politeness only. So stick to the pasta and the wine! From this spot, it is easy to take a jaunt into town. Designer shops are nestled into the alcoves of the Two famous falling Bologna towers, Asinelli and Garisenda 47 THE LOG Win 24 pp47-49 Bologna.indd 47 01/12/2023 14:57