I am a street art fanatic. I can't thank the artists enough for giving the world so much beauty. I take pleasure in the hunt up until I find what I'm looking for. Even better when I'm surprised along the way.
I’m a late bloomer as a craft beer enthusiast and there’s no stopping me now. My style preferences are stouts and barrel-aged beers, although I have started to enjoy hazy IPAs.
Italy is a magnificent country that should be on everyone's bucket list. The Amalfi Coast is pure magic, and you will feel like you stepped into a postcard upon arriving. Rome and the Ruins of Pompeii gave me goosebumps. The history and architecture were astounding, and I felt like I had time traveled to a different century. 1) The Colosseum - This photo depicts my initial reaction when I laid eyes on this notable amphitheater (I couldn't move).
2) Ristorante O'Parrucchiano in Sorrento - An eatery so perfect I dined there twice in two days because of the mouthwatering food, impeccable service, and captivating outdoor garden seating area. http://bit.ly/1G9P3h5
3) Positano - Words cannot begin to describe the breathtaking allure this pastel colored village offers, so I will let the photos do the talking.
4) Trevi Fountain - You will be mesmerized as soon as you lay eyes on this treasure.
5) Ruins of Pompeii - Spend an entire day trying to imagine what once was.
I wouldn't recommend the city bus (SITA) ride along the Amalfi Coast for the faint-hearted like myself; however, it was an experience that I don't regret.
The last part of my journey to Italy was the jaw-dropping Amalfi Coast and Sorrento. The majority of this post will be photos, because I traveled here to take in the scenery and photos speak better than words this time.
The sea and mountains in Sorrento
A shuttered hotel that I would like to rescue
The colorful coastline in Sorrento
Sorrento is beautiful in its own right and the place to catch a bus to the coast. My definition for this bus ride can be defined as death-defying due to the height and extremely narrow road. I wonder what kind of training is involved for the bus operators before they are let loose. You can see what I mean right here.
I dined at the same restaurant twice because of the stunning outdoor garden area and food. I even ordered the same dish both visits because it was so delicious! I highly recommend eating at O'Parrucchiano if you visit Sorrento - http://www.parrucchiano.com/en/index.php
Tuscan bean & escarole soup at O'Parrucchiano
The gorgeous outdoor dining area
Arriving in Positano was a dream come true! After recovering from the initial shock of beauty, I ventured around to discover an abundance of unique shops. I decided to eat at a fancy restaurant called Ristorante Max - http://www.ristorantemax.it/ing/default.htm. It's an art gallery, wine bar and restaurant rolled into one exquisite space. This restaurant is very pricey including a charge for being seated; however, I don't regret it for one minute and it was well worth it.
Magnificent Positano!
I had lunch in this lovely outdoor area
Too chilly for a dip, but good for people watching
Despite my fears, it was time to hop on board again to go a little further up the coast to Amalfi. Unfortunately, I didn't have much time here, but that just means I will have to go back (no arm twisting required).
Amalfi dressed in white
The beautiful Amalfi Cathedral
Time for a gelati before hitting the road
I think seeing the Amalfi Coast in person should be at the top of everyone's bucket list. It's still hard to comprehend that I was actually there. I can't wait to return and explore some other areas including Capri and Ravello.
