To Italy and beyond

I everyone.  Apologies for the delay in posting anything new for quite a while, 3 years or more is a long time.
Since my last post I had left Europe at end of October 2012 and made my way to Merida Mexico, where my intention was to stay for 6 months, learn some spanish and to just bathe in the culture the city has to offer.
Well, that turned out to be a disaster in every way imaginable.  The house I rented was in a beautiful historic part of the old city.  The house itself was nice, great layout and private back yard with roof top deck.  That is where it ended.  There was no water in the tanks (tinaco) and the electricity shorted every time the switch was used.  The final straw was when the fridge caught fire in the middle of the night.  Unfortunately that has left a bitter taste with me and I am told to give Mexico another chance. Maybe one day it will happen.
I baled the next day back to Vancouver.  I thought it would be good for me to go back as I knew I could get centred.  It worked, at least for 2.5 years.
While in Vancouver I reconnected with old friends from school, work and childhood.  As well I met many wonderful people whom helped me get fit (Mr. C), have a fit and made my stay in Vancouver really enjoyable.
In July of 2015 I returned to Ontario and have been staying with my sister in the country.  While it has been relaxing, just a little too much so for me, the pull to travel is overwhelming.  I thank Cindy and Rick for putting up with me.  And I hope they reciprocate that thanks.
I am now starting another journey with my good friend Ava.  We have known each other for over 30 years, have lived together and travel well.
I leave today for another 6 month adventure through Italy, Croatia and area, Istanbul, Cyprus and back to Italy for the end.
My intention is to post on a regular basis so please keep checking in on what we are up to.

Thanks for reading and enjoy your life.