See Naples and Live

We are leaving the Pompei/Naples area tomorrow morning and heading to Sicily by boat. We’ve been warned over and again that the “Autostrada” to Reggio Calabria is treacherous in many ways. The locals say we’ll be robbed blind and the tourists say the road is terrible. It was built in 1974 and has been under repair ever since - apparently. Hence Naples to Sicily the easy way.

Northern Italians are rather scathing about their southern cousins and when you say you are going to Naples, they roll their eyes and throw their hands in the air. “It’s dangerous” they warn you severely, “be very careful”.

Well we survived Naples without being pickpocketed, robbed, mugged, beaten, stabbed or murdered. In fact we saw nothing like this and the whole thing was slightly disappointing. We found Naples a bit dreary and having spent the best part of 2 days there were happy to leave.

Typical Naples street

Sorry to say, but we were also underwhelmed by Sorrento. Rather dull and the dramatic coastline is completely over developed and commandeered by large hotels. I didn't even take a photo!

However, we were blown away by Positano and the Amalfi Coast. It’s everything you dream it will be. Stunning. Also we had brilliant weather that day and being south facing, we managed lunch in the sun.

Positano and the Amalfi Coast

We also climbed to the top of Vesuvius, hoping that this wasn’t the day it would blow it’s top for first time since 1944. It was fabulous to see and there just a bit of steam escaping to remind us that it is still an active volcano.

Looking into vesuvius

Looking at Vesuvius

We’ll spend Christmas in San Vito Lo Capo and if all goes to plan, we’ll stay there for a few weeks. www.campinglapineta.it

That’s all from me tonight.

Merry Christmas to all and see you in the New Year (if not before).