continued--
Cappuccin Crypt; people seem to flock to this because of the 'creepy' factor (and it is so) but it also has a beautiful calmness and spiritual feel that shouldn't be overlooked.
Visited the cat sanctuary, Torre Argentina, at the ruins and I would highly encourage people to visit. They care for about 250 cats who have been adandoned. Incredible work
by loving devoted people.
Ostia tour with Through Eternity (guide Marle). We loved Ostia. It is a very pretty site and extremely fascinating.
Sorrento -- 5 nights. Stayed at Il Nido and I simply cannot rave enough about it. We had a room with a balcony overlooking the Bay of Naples--spectacular. It felt like a dream. The staff was incredibly friendly and helpful, the shuttle always on time and efficient (with fantastic driver Neillo), the place clean, bright and just lovely. We ate 3 out of the 5 nights at their restaurant overlooking the bay because, we figured if we want good food (and it was great!) and a view, why go anywhere else. We would then take a bottle of wine back to our room and sit on the balcony, watching the lights of the town twinkle, sipping the wine and reviewing the day. And repeatedly saying how lucky we were. It was magical.
Tour of Pompeii and Vesuvius with Positano Walking Tours. Pompeii was great; Vesuvius a bit of a disappointment. Maybe I expected it to be smoldering ;-)
Rented a boat on Capri and sailed around the island. One of the most gorgeous spots on earth!
It was a great trip overall. I immediately fell in love with wine (I am a very loyal beer drinker), was far more exhausted than I ever thought I would be, and I totally blew my budget....
and I can't wait to do it again