Just wanted to give all some notes and information thus far in our two week Itialian vacation--yes, in a way rubbing it in and causing some palates to salivate for when they finally arrive
We started a week ago in Assisi(stayed at the guest house of the Fransician Sisters or Atonement(63 Euros, breakfast and parking included--breath-taking view from inside the walls, gentle hospitality). Great Pizzas at the restuarant "el Duomo" and Rick's right--the crowds evaporate around 4 and the village is yours. Incedentally Sr Dennis there is looking for help in putting together a website for the house--she told me she didn't know how, and, nor do I, however, I think someone out there does.
Next back to Rome with a stop at Orvierto; honestly, wasn't really impressed by anything other than the Duomo--the town seemed set up to part tourists with as many Euros in as short a time as possible.
Only had a short time in Rome, however, we've been here before, so hit the Capitoline Mueseum this time, and had a wonderful dinner at La Scala in Trestevere.
On Monday we took the train to Naples(41Euros for two), the Circumvenusivia(?sp) to Sorrento, and Sorrento is everything Rick says it is--we are sitting on our balcony looking across the bay at Naples, and life is good--tomorrow it's the Amalfi Coast and Thursday it's Pompeii and then on to Palermo--thanks to Steves' helpline posts and advise to others,we found an air fare to Palermo from Naples $50 more than the train and 9 hours' shorter.
Finally, the Circumven(sp) shouldn't bother anyone who's ridden a subway North and East of Philly--it is gritty, and sullen, and a long ride to Sorrento, with professionals and amatuers looking for sheep. All in all, at this hour (1820 in Sorrento) if I were a cat, I'd be purring.
Posted by
In the Mountains, USA
689 posts
Ahhhhhhhhh.... Sorrento..... It sounds like the Sirens have found their hold on you! Enjoy.
Safe Travels
Posted by
Seattle
922 posts
Sigh ... I'm sitting here -- in front of my computer at work, nose wrinkling at the odor emanating from the microwave in the breakroom -- and slowly turning green with envy.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32353 posts
jerry,
Glad to hear that you're having a good time! Yes, Sorrento is definitely a wonderful place and I can well remember the view across the bay (especially at night, with cruise ships in the harbour).
If you have a "generous budget" during your stay in Sorrento, you might consider having a fine hot meal at L'Antica Trattoria (Via P.R. Giuliani 33). Be sure to mention that you're a Rick Steves traveller, and Aldo and the group will provide you with an awesome meal.
You'll have to be a bit careful about "rubbing it in" as others here may use the same method when they're "purring" in Italy and you're stuck back at home.
Happy travels!