Positano

I first learned about Positano in 2012 when I was in Rome.  I purchased a sundress with printed material which had designs plus the word "Positano" all over it.  I inquired of the store keeper what it meant and she told me about it - positively gushing about it, saying it was one of the most beautiful spots on the Italian coast.

From that moment I was intrigued.  

And now I got to see it - albeit for a very, very short time.

I guess I will just have to return.

Anybody want to go with me?

(click on these for best viewing!)
 

Amalfi

Amalfi, Amalfi Coast - or as they say in Italian - the Costiera Amalfitana

Saint Andrew's Cathedral (11th century) - Alas, there was no time to go inside but I shall return... yes, indeed, I shall return.

 Also Saint Andrew's Fountain in the Piazza del Duomo.  The fountain is baroque, built in 1760.

I also indulged in (with a number of my fellow travellers) a boat ride a short while up the coast - wonderful to see Amalfi from the level of the sea.

You must really try and see this amazing scenery yourself.  

I'll go with you! 

(Do click on these for best effect.)

Herculaneum

Herculaneuma - a UNESCO World Heritage Site - is an ancient Roman town that was destroyed and buried by volcanic pyroclastic flows in the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79.

Unlike Pompeii, the material which covered it preserved wooden and other organic-based objects such as window grills, roofs, beds, doors, food and even some 300 skeletons (these you see here are replicates of what was found). The latter were surprising discoveries as it was thought until then that the town had been evacuated by the inhabitants. 

Alas that it was not entirely so.

Herculaneum was more than just fascinating – it was hauntingly beautiful. It was so incredible, so astonishing, so unbelievable to be walking along the narrow, ancient roadways traversed by others almost 2 thousand years ago.

And it all seemed so familiar.  I could almost see myself ordering from the "fast food street venders" with their vats and containers selling to the masses.

Wonderful.

Back to Italy... Sorrento

So now I am moving forward with the second part of my wonderful Italian adventure - heading to the Amalfi Coast.

Here are some random pictures of Sorrento - our home base for the next 7 days.

Gotta love Mount Vesuvius across the Bay of Naples.  

 

Interupting Italy for Little Bow Provincial Park..

How fun was my August long weekend?

Answer:  SUPER FUN!

This day - enjoying the hot weather, boating and all the young people on their water skies, ski board and tubing.  Many, many laughs with attempts up and then the inevitable drop into the deep.  (Can you spot Brianna's hand/arm in the froth?)

And well done Brie!  Your skills as a licensed boat operator are getting very good!  Who cares if there were a few jerky bits - all added to the fun.  I was impressed with your skill.

And well done all of you in both your successes and your brave attempts!