The Amalfi coast

I spent the day traveling the Amalfi coast. It is considered one of the best coastal drives in the world - they ain't lying! I would have loved to have done it in a convertible with the top down, or even on the back of a motor bike, but the bus was the only thing my budget would allow. In fact, being elevated a bit off the pavement gave the twists, turns and magnificent cliff ledges more drama. It is breathtaking.

I made a brief stop in Positano. My hotel manager had supplied me with a map of the area and instructions on where the best look outs were. It was suggested that a quick hour was all that was needed in Positano. This gave me enough of a view of the colourful houses that seemingly float off the side of the cliffs. I also made it down to the black sand beach but it was too cold to take a dip. I guess I am now a Mediterranean snob.

The real treasure was Ravello. A cute pedestrian town perched high on the hill. The Villa Cimbrone is well worth the hike up to. It has the Terrace of Infinite with stunning views up and down the coast. It gives one pause to appreciate life. It certainly beats my view on Lake Ontario. I was also finally able to take a seat in an Italian piazza and enjoy a cappuccino. However, I had to endure the rolling of eyes from the cafe owner, as Italians don't drink milky coffee after breakfast. I begged forgiveness and he frothed the milk.

Amalfi itself is probably better seen in the height of summer where a stroll along the waterfront is a must. With chilly temperatures rolling in I gave the striped Duomo a quick glance, walked the shopping streets for some visual stimulus (the prices are sky high), watched the sunset beyond the cliffs and then headed back to Sorrento via the windy coastal road. Which in the pitch black was even more gut wrenching at times.

I arrived back in Sorrento with a healthy appetite and a great restaurant recommendation. The perfect combo to end out a lovely day.