Review Royal Princess 08-24-2007 Part 2

[Suzy Q]

Portofino--Tender port--Fun fun day. Walked up to Castle Brown (pant, pant) and the "lighthouse" (not what I expected). This walk is not for the faint of heart-- rather strenuous. Gelato place was not open at the lighthouse so we traipsed back to the square and had gelato there. Yum. Get some. Then took the ferry to Santa Margherita. Walked around this beautiful town, up and down, rather hilly. Back to Portofino and then the tender back to the ship. The ferry over is easy. If you speak Italian, it helps. Or sign language as we did. DH loved this stop and now has a photo of Portofino as his screensaver.

 

Rome--Our guide is waiting at the dock. It is about 45--60 minute drive from Civitavecchia (pronounced Che-vet-ti-ve-kia , I think !). We explore or see virtually every sight. The Forum, Coliseum, Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Circus Maximus, Pantheon. We grab a soda and a slice of pizza at a local deli and sit with a charming local man who extols the virtues of his particular diet choices--all in Italian. This includes flexing his biceps and pointing to his plate of food. He is at least 65 years old. What a kick. We end at the Vatican and the Sistene Chapel with a different and amazing guide, Christina. She is knowledgeable, engaging and clearly loves her history and art. This portion of the experience is breathtaking and awe inspiring. Don't miss this. And get Christina if you can. Back to the ship.

 

Sorrento-- The guide I had lined up here couldn't make it and instead sent his niece, Gabriella, and a driver, Mario. Gabriella is also a tour guide. These two and the air conditioned Mercedes made this stop fastastic. First stop is a wood working factory with beautiful items. Then on to Pompeii. Pompeii is huge. We used the audio numbered identification units here. It is incredibly hot and crowded. Walking on the "paved" streets is a challenge and the countless huge tour groups make the experience daunting. Two hours is all I can manage. We drive to Scala (Scalea?) for lunch in the town square and then on to Ravello. Lastly Amalfi and Positano. The Amalfi coast is as beautiful as you've heard. Positano is the hangout of the rich and famous (didn't know that). Ferraris everywhere. We stop at a ceramincs store then back to Sorrento for a quick spin around the town and then back to the tender.Our original guide has provided us with wine as an apology gift. (Love it)

 

More to follow...