On my first full day in Italy I awoke and ran a few miles around Pozzuoli. There is a beautiful boardwalk and winding cobblestone streets with life spilling out of every shop and restaurant. I was telling my hosts that their town felt much more alive than the towns I’ve visited in France. It is just a bit more in your face and exposed. Cars are cued up in traffic, horns are honking and there was thrum of noise which I have grown unaccustomed to over the last few months.

After getting showered and having a beautiful breakfast, our group left Mary and Joe’s gorgeous apartment and walked to the train. We travelled through Naples, past Pompei and arrived in Sorrento. Sorrento is a touristy town that is the jump off point for the Amalfi Coast. The sun was warm and we ate our first meal outside on a patio soaking up the summer temperatures.

We made our way to our AirBnb which was huge and centrally located, dropped our stuff, and set out to explore the bustling town. Tall palm trees line the streets as well as orange and lemon trees heavy with fruit. We decide to split up for a couple of hours before dinner to shop in earnest.

I walked along the large main street that was lined with cafe’s and shops. Running between the harbor and the main street were several narrow, cobblestone alleys with tiny boutiques selling souvenirs, leather products, limoncello, ceramics and linen attire. I deliberated about purses, shoes, dresses and ended up not buying anything but a cheap pair of sunglesses. Instead of big purchases, I chose to get free limoncello shots and sit by the cliff enjoying a Spritz and watching the sunset.

We met up for dinner and had pizza again. I loved it. Again. The day wrapped up with us sitting around the kitchen table in our Airbnb laughing and splitting a bottle of wine. Tomorrow we would go on our private van tour. Exciting.