After living in Italy for the past three years we are winding down our last few weeks with a few mini-vacations. Of course that means doing some things I don't particularly relish and attending an opera performance might rank right up there.
Agreeing on a trip to Verona my wife surprised me with a detour to Maranella and a visit to "Galleria Ferrari".
Upon initial entry to the galleria there is a sign stating there are no ropes or barriers distancing visitors from the vehicles on display. All Ferrari asks is that you do not touch the displays so others who follow may enjoy the same pleasures. No where did I witness anyone disregarding the facilitie's request, in fact, there was almost an air of reverence equal to what I've seen in some of Europe's great cathederals!
Quite impressive being able to walk among the historic displays of cars and motors, the best part was actually being able to
drive one of these beautiful machines.
A small souvenir shop (not affiliated with Ferrari) sits off the side of the galleria's parking lot. For Euro 50.00 you get a ten minute drive around the area; Euro 100.00 buys you 20 minutes. A small video camera sits between the seats to document your drive. The 10-20 minutes are relative depending on your, er...driving style:D
There is no driving on the autostrada, but the 20 minute loop takes you to the outskirts of town through numerous roundabouts and lightly traveled country lanes.
Although not exactly a "high performance driving event" I was struck with my guides insistance that I take the car up to its limits (within reason, of course) where the opportunity existed. At the end of my drive I found out the "guide" was actually the car's owner! No wonder he grabbed the "chicken handle" a few times:eek:
I don't think I could have done that as the owner of a Euro 200,000 (~$294,000) automobile!!
Topic: On Our Way To The Opera.... (Read 2864 times)