Italy: Tuscany, Naples and the Aeolian Islands

Under a Tuscan Sunset at Borgo Casabianca Asciano As I was heading to Italy to scout out a new Southern Italy itinerary I was asked to go a few days early for a site inspection of a potential villa for our affinity department. So I arrived in Rome and met the most quintessential Italian man and rode in a little 2 person fiat through the winding roads of Tuscany. The countryside is absolutely gorgeous. There will be nothing for miles (kilometers I should say) and then we'd pass through an adorable little village. We stopped at one for an espresso.

Florence’s red-tiled Duomo features an enormous dome that rises above the rest of the city. Climb the 414 steps to the top of the bell tower,and take in a stunning 360 degree view over the city. Rome has so much to see: The Colosseum, the Forums, the Catacombs, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps and more.

I took the train from Rome to Naples, which was so easy! The ride is quick - about one hour and I paid 10 Euro. Upon arrival I found Arnaud - my local guide for the few days. First we headed to Mt. Vesuvius which was about a 40 minute drive. Incredible day learning about Mt Vesuvius and its power. First the story of Pompei. Then climbing to the crater followed by visiting a wine farm affected by several eruptions. Most recently in 1906. The wine cellar is actually made in the lava rock. Some people say that Vesuvius is due for another major eruption.

Contined to Amalfi (about 1.5 hours drive, some of it was terrifying!) and checked into hotel. Views are incredible here. But be ready for lots of steps!

I took a local ferry to Capri for a day visit. We stopped at Positano also to pick up more passengers.

And the the last leg of my journey: The Aeolian Islands. From Naples there is an overnight ferry to Milazzo. I was in a small, inside cabin and it was very basic with 2 twin beds and a bathroom. They did offer a cafeteria style dinner upon debarking. Few little English was spoken onboard and all announcements were in Italian only. The boat docked (very) early am. I reunited with Arnaud at the dock. We grabbed a quick breakfast, and boarded a local ferry to Stromboli, arriving on the island at 7:30 AM. We hiked up to the viewing point of the volcano, which is active. We stopped in town and walked through a small church. My guide had to meet the tinest old women and bring some sweaters from the mainland. She spoke no English but was very smily. Then we took the ferry to the islad of Vulcano. Here we checked into a hotel and met back up at 3:00 PM for a hike to the crater of Vulcano. It is worth noting the entire island smells strongly of sulfer due to the volcano. However you do get used to it before long.

The Aeolian Islands feels like a secret most beautiful place on the planet. At the end of the day I had 32,000 plus steps (none of which were flat). We climbed two volcanoes: Stromboli and Vulcano. And to think only 4 months ago I was recovering from back surgery and could not even walk. Truly amazing.