World Italy Campania Naples

Askew summer 2011

Naples Jul 20, 2011

Although we arrived into port much later than planned we had been able to contact our tour guide by internet last night. He was waiting for us as we exited from the ship and away we went. Through Naples and up to Sorrento. Giovanni is unlike any Italian we have met so far. More the kind you see in the movies, shaking their hands in expression with fingers pursed together and speaking VERY loudly. We didn’t hit it off initially; and we were all wondering what we had gotten ourselves into. About two hours along the way he had said, “move it, move it, move it” one too many times. I gave him a few of his own expressions in return and the playing field was levelled. We spent the rest of the day making jokes, laughing, and singing as we zipped up the Amalfi Coast. Sorrento was fun, did a little shopping and saw the biggest lemons ever. On up the road to Positano, for a drive by of Giovanni’s home and an extended lunch at a local restaurant. What a treat!!!!! The chef and family make most everything directly from their land; tomatoes, basil, mozzarella cheese, wine, etc. In addition to this, they specialize in gluten free items. We not only had the first gluten free ravioli ever, but caprice salad all from their land, red and white wine they had made themselves, and three desserts!!!!! From lunch we set out to a wonderful cooking school and were hosted by the owner to a tour of the facilities, restaurant, and grounds. Jacquelyn wanted to pre-register to come back for classes in a few years.  The driving by the Italian’s here is much as it was in Roma. While slipping through the narrow streets on our way back to the city of Naples we were brushed by another car resulting in the loss of a rear view mirror. Each of the drivers seemed to take it all in stride which was more than surprising considering the general temperament of Giovanni. Running late on time we did a quick look around Pompeii and then were back to the ship just 30 minutes before departure. Pietro (the head of the dining wait staff), personally brought our dinner to our room since we arrived too late for the dining room. I couldn’t believe it! His graciousness and service are far beyond what is to be expected. Dan shared that it is a good example of a servant’s heart and what Christ exemplified. How extraordinary to see it lived out to this degree. It was a very exciting day. A true ‘taste’ of Italy from culture, history and cuisine. Jacquelyn says it might just be her favorite day so far.

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