Just got back to DC after 10 amazing days in Italy. Started in Venice, then Florence, then a small town outside of Naples where my wife has family (Alife), and then some time in Naples.
For those interested, here are some photos I took: https://share.icloud.com/photos/076t7OhHd9lYfw6pxBCFiPgtg
Highlights of the trip: (1) Wine tour in Tuscany with Tuscan Trails. Seriously one of the most perfect days we’ve ever had—Going from vineyard to vineyard in an impossibly beautiful landscapes with no cell service or Wi-Fi. (2) Early morning walks. Yes, Venice and Florence are packed with tourists… but not before 8 or 9 am. Wake up at 6, and you’ll have the places to yourself, and you can experience the most beautiful time of day. And you’re on vacation, so if waking up early makes you tired, just chill (or even take a nap) during the afternoon when the masses are out. And then don’t tell anyone how magical it is to have a place like Venice to yourself; let’s keep it our secret.
Surprises: (1) How crowded Florence was. I was ready for Venice to be packed, but not for Florence to be the same. That said, between 6 and 10 am, Florence was as peaceful as could be. (2) Naples. I was excited to see Naples. But I expected a ton of grit and didn’t think it’d be safe. But—while there certainly was grit—I was blown away by how beautiful the city is, and how fantastic the waterfront, sites, cultural, and shopping areas are. I definitely will be back to spend more time in Naples.
Not surprised but still blown away: The food. Their pizza isn’t junk food. They’re pasta isn’t buried in sauce and cheese. It’s just reasonable amounts of fantastic dishes with outstanding ingredients.
In sum, go to Italy.