I somehow doubt they really interfered with the true goal of having fun in some foreign countries

Losing the hat was a real bummer, but luckily we were in probably the only city in Italy where a suitable replacement could be found (a canvas version of the same bush hat style).
I've now found a Canadian outlet for the exact same (original) leather version, and they've offered to ship me one for CAD$99 incl. tax and shipping. I'll probably take them up on the offer.
Photos coming.. some day.

I've weeded out the first week's catch now, only 3+ weeks worth to go. Then maybe some captions.
Cheers