Italy is one of the most amazing countries to travel in. It has everything going for it - pleasant weather, amazing food, tasty wine, friendly locals, history, art, architecture, natural beauty and so much more! Although the prevailing thought seems to be that travelling there is super expensive. Well talking this into account I did some research and found out that travel in Southern Italy can be a great bargain, and as we later found out WAY less touristy than the north of the country.
The streets of Naples are dirty (yes the reputation is true), and full of life. There is so much happening it is hard to take in. Naples has a lot of history, but the filth can be a real negative of this city, and we found that we spent most of our time on day trips to nearby areas. A better place to stay may be somewhere like San Remo or Amalfi, albeit more expensive. Nevertheless Naples is not without its charms. The pizza here is cheap and tasty, although other parts of Italy make even tastier pizza. On our first day we enjoy some margarhita pizzas with a cheap bottle of red made by an Italian grandpa on the steps of a church. Nice experience. But if you come here the real attractions lay outside of Naples.
Just a short train ride from the center of Naples you will find the world heritage site. A place of both tragedy and beauty, and an oustanding bargain at only 13 Euros a ticket! This is a whole day event. Bring a picnic, plenty of water, and sunscreen, and make sure your camera is fully charged because you will be taking crazy amounts of photos!
The Amalfi Coast is a place of unparalled natural beauty. A great entry to this region is to start in the mountains and then make your way down the "Path of the Gods" into Positano. It is an easy trek with unforgettable views. The whole coastline is a really interesting place to visit with little villages justing hanging on the cliffs.
Check back soon for Part 2 - The Island of Sicily