Saturday, May 5                             End of Main Tour

All Good things must come to an end.  This morning, the group said a final fond farewell, at 7:30 Am, as we headed in different directions. The majority went to the Naples Airport, with Pasquale as their escort. Rowena  was going on with 3 others ( Judy, Sandra & Pat) via train from Naples to Rome for a 4 Day extension.   Here’s wishing everyone, Safe Travels, and Thanks for sharing this Journey with us…

Farewell to Sorrento, From Rowena (WTN Tour Host) & Pasquale, our ITalian Tour Guide. 

Friday, May 4                   Sorrento at leisure & Farewell Dinner

The final tour day was given to the ladies to continue exploring the town of Sorrento, to sit reading on the panoramic terrace, shop the boutiques and artisan workshops of the Corso Italia and Piazza Tasso.

Today most of us agreed to meet for Lunch at 1:00 PM: at the Lovely Garden Restaurant we discovered on Day 2 in Sorrento: Parracchianni! By now, they were welcoming us, as longtime friends..

This evening, we celebrated the finale of our tour with a  farewell dinner together at a local Seafood restaurant: Zi Antonio Mare!

Sandra: Was the last to enter the restaurant: for our Farewell Dinner. She was “Dressed” for the Occasion :-)!

The Lovely Amalfi Ladies are all seated for our 4 Course Dinner! 

Our menu was: Shrimp Cocktail, Risotto, Fish Course; Mixed Salad and Lemon Cake- Delicious!

Our Fish course is ready

Desert is Lemon Cake!

Sharing fond memories.

A few touching words were said!

Saying Thank You and Goodbye to Pasquale.

Saying  goodbye to our Italian Tour Host, Pasquale, was touching to say the least!  We reminisced on many of the moments, shared the past 9 days. We offered to take him home with us, but he gracefully declined.  I think we will get over it!  We will always Have Sorrento!

Thursday, May 3                Mozzarella , Limoncello Liqueur Tasting and Gelato, What a Day!

In the words of our Tour Guide; “What about today?”  Well, it’s pure enjoyment and relaxation!
First we’ll  get Fat, then we’ll get Drunk (but not too much!) , and then we get Fat again.

1. Activity #1: We  visited a working farm to learn about mozzarella production.  Then we had to taste it for Lunch.  The verdict: Delicious!

Rowena & Rosa, our Host at the “La Sorgente” family Farm .

One of many (200) Olive Trees- Stunningly beautiful! This is a “Tuti-Fruiti” Farm.

Entering the the 4 acres of Terraced Gardens at La Sergente Farm.  Agri Turismo: Tourist Farm!

Maria Says- “Cheese”! She makes the Mozzarella, with milk  from her 7 cows!

Other products include Olive oil, Jams and marmalades,

Lunch, served with Fresh bread – Umm Umm -Good!

The Lovely Amalfi Ladies, Enjoying the many flavors! Fresh Mozzarella, Tomatoes, & Charcuterie accompanied by Vino.

Saying farewell to a fun morning! From Left: Sandra, Allison & Lyn; Judy & Faye.

2. Activity #2: This afternoon we stop in for a taste of the famous ‘limoncello’ liqueur and learn more about its production.  Of Course,  we have to taste MULTIPLE varities (16??) I lost count!

Our Mid-Afternoon stop: For Limoncello class!

Our host: His tray is empty, because we drank it ll!

Rena & This is all about Limoncello!

Joanne, doesn’t want to leave!

3.  We Saved the Best for LAST: We have an introduction to the most popular , and Perfect Gelateria in Sorrento; where we can choose from their 365 Flavours!   But not before we learn how it is made, via a lesson from the most engaging : Teresa. She  designed the majority of these flavors herself, starting at the tender age of 14 , in her father’s shop!. Her enthusiasm for Gelato is infectious!

Teresa (Centre) flanked by Trudi (left) & Kaylan: Let’s make Lemon Gelato!

Ready for a Lesson on Gelato.

Pat is also ready! in the Kitchen at Bouganveilla! 

Preparing the Fresh Fruit juice !

Lyn: Ready to Serve !

And the Verdict is: Delicious!   

What a day! Our taste buds are overworked; and yes, we got Fat; but loved every minute of it!

Wednesday, May 2         Naples

Today we left Sorrento early and drove the Mama Mia route, once again, to Naples, where we met out Local Guide: Fredrika.   We left the Coach, and took to a Walking tour.   Naples is Italy’s most artistic city; its elegantly faded façade hides a city of breathtaking beauty. Our guided walk takes us the UNESCO World Heritage historic centre with its fabulous palaces, castles and churches, its palm-fringed piazzas and splendid panoramas.  It’s a bustling, energetic city and its street life has an infectious vitality.

Walking Tour, Starting in this Square.

Our Guide ( With Backpack) Explains the sites we are about to see,

Naples is Throbbing city with old and new vistas!

On our way to the San Seveo Chapel, to see the Veiled Christ Statue. No pictures taken inside the Chapel.

Many points of interest along the way.

Typical Tourist Merchandise: Nativity scenes- Everywhere!

Our Highlight of today: Was Lunch! We Sampled 3 kinds of  pizza and much more, in the place where Pizza was invented: Naples:  Home of the Neapolitan Pizza! Thanks to the Staff at Trattoria Medina- they put on a Lovely Spread!

Needs no introduction! We feasted on 3 types of Pizza!

Time to Relax and Enjoy!

Tuesday, May 1             Pompeii ; A Surprise &  Mount Vesuvius 

Due to the Weather forecast for the next 3 days (rain) , we decided to swap the Tuesday ( May 1st) and Thursday (May 3rd) Schedules. We hoped for a dry visit to the Volcano mountain.  The weather man was kind, and we had a DRY day for our outdoor visit to Pompeii today.  

Pompeii: One of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world,! It provides a glimpse in to ancient Roman life; our guide showed us the highlights of this fascinating site.  We walked the Roman streets and explored houses, shops, amphitheatres and cafes of ancient times.

Arriving early at the Gates of Pompeii, Mt. Vesuvius in the Background.

A bird’s eye view of the What’s to come.

In we go!

Tour Host Rowena, waiting while the ladies explore!

The ladies are engaged…

Starting in one main Square.

Our Guide Roberta. Explains what we see.

Calcified remains, there are many examples,

How they were when the Volcano Erupted!

Judy, Sandra and Lori: Break time, so much to absorb at this Historical Pompeii!

After our  visit to Pompeii: We drove up part of the Slopes, Mt. Vesuvius, where we had a nice Surprise!:   Lunch & a Wine Tour! We were ready for this!

Arriving at LaCryma Christie Winery!

The Restaurant at the Winery. We tasted 4 Wines.

A fabulous lunch accompanied the wine tastings! Allison & Kaylan, enjoying!

Rena, enjoying the pasta, my Favorite Course!

A bit of History: Lacryma Christi, (also Lachryma Christi of Vesuvius, literally “tears of Christ”), is the name of a celebrated Neapolitan type of wine produced on the slopes of Mount Vesuvius in Campania, Italy. White Lacryma Christi is made mainly from Verdeca and Coda di Volpe grapes, with smaller proportions of Falanghina, Caprettone^[1] and Greco di Tufo included. Red Lacryma Christi is made from Piedirosso and Sciascinoso grapes. It is also, as archaeologists have discovered, the nearest equivalent to wine drunk by the Ancient Romans, having analysed microscopic residue left on the taps of the casks.

Final Stop: Mt. Vesuvius:  we climbed the mountain! What a way to end our day..!

A few of us were tired, by this time, and elected to hang out at the base, for mid-afternoon coffee, and take in the sights. near where our Bus was parked… which was 1167 metres up!   Others, with our Fearless Leader, Pasquale in Front, took to the slopes for a Hike up to the 1200 metre mark, to catch a better view of the Crater, and the Bay of Naples from this side.

Our fearless Leader, Pasquale, explaining the views from Mt. Vesuvius!!

Trudy, stopping to take it all in! The Glory of Mt. Vesuvius.

Sylvia, taking in the view!

On one side: The Bay of Naples in the background

A look into the Original Crater, from our Viewpoint above: Mt. Vesuvius!!

Sunday, April 29          Exploring the MaMa Mia Route &  Amalfi Coastal towns of Positano, Amalfi and Ravello    

Today we learned the True meaning of “Mama Mia!” – as it pertains to the Amalfi Coastal Drive!  As we traversed the Steep, Windy Coastal “MaMa Mia” route – we had occasion to say like the Italians” Mama Mia” or – In Canadian “OH MY GOSH (OMG)”! at each turn, either for the stunning view that presented itself, OR as each oncoming vehicle, jockeyed for position on the narrow roads, with ours! Thank Goodness we were always in Capable Hands with our Bus Driver, we made it safely both ways!

We Explored the charming small towns of the coast travelling by coach along the panoramic seaside road. However, it is Sunday, and traffic is at times very slow: more time to take in the Scenery from our comfortable Coach.One we arrived at Positano: we transferred to a small boat, to view the Coastal Towns from the water;

The Amalfi Coast is a glittering string of coastal gems, an outstanding example of Mediterranean landscape and seascape. Positano lives up to its reputation as the most photogenic town on the coast with pink, peach and terracotta coloured houses seeming to tumble down to the sea.

Amalfi was once a Maritime super-power; its striking 11^th century cathedral is all that remains.

We enjoyed our Guide’s local tales about the famous Villa, built by Carlo Ponti for his Hollywood Actress wife: Sophia Loren, at the pricetag of 25 Million Euros!, We caught site of i from the water:

Ravello has a refined and polished feel with ravishing gardens and the very best views on the coast. The Drive back is all about the Colours, that uplift your Spirits and send your Senses Soaring to New Heights!  If you are a pisces, ( like me) ; then the fish in you would be totally sated!

After many tales of Sophia Loren: We were excited to have Dinner tonight at a Sofia’s Restaurant!

Dinner at Ristorante Donna Sofia Sorrento, Italy ;

https://www.facebook.com/donnasofiasorrento/

We were not disappointed! The staff was extremely friendly, the wine flowed incessantly, and we feasted on a 4 Course Italian Menu that was sumptuous!  Definitely a highlight of the trip, so Far!!

First Course: Prosciutto Ham & Mozzarella Cheese.

2nd: Course, Pasta: Sorrento Style Cannelloni

3rd Course: Beef Tagliata with Arugula, Parmesan & Tomatoes.

4th: House Case: Delightfully Lemon!

We are certainly, one happy bunch of Ladies! The Term “Lovely Amalfi Ladies” Was coined today, by our Tour Guide: Pasquale:!

Lovely Ladies of Amalfi!

Day 3: Saturday, April 28            Capri and AnaCapri (Higher Capri) 

After breakfast, we hopped on our bus, for a transfer down to the port, and met our Guide for Today: Roberta. We are headed for the Island of Capri! Known as a vacation spot for many celebrities. While waiting at the Port for our Hydrofoil tickets, we stop for water and another morning coffee!

And we are off : A short hydrofoil ride from Sorrento takes us to magical Capri.

On Arrival : We transfer to a smaller boat; so we can have a view of Capri from the Water: Including the White and Green Grottos! Then we made a wish as we travelled under the Archway!. 

Back on Land: We explore the island: With its white-washed buildings, a mix of luxury hotels and designer boutiques, and entrancing views everywhere, Capri is the epitome of Mediterranean chic. There are ancient Roman sites to discover dating from the time of the Emperor Tiberius and beautiful gardens overlooking the limestone Faraglione Islands.

A walk up to Anacapri, the laid back village at the top of the island. provides us with many scenic views:  I spotted the Capri Tennis Club, nestled at the base of the water, sporting Red Clay Courts.

After a full day on the island, we enjoyed some scenic views on the ride back to Sorrento; but not before some serious, last minute Shopping! Classic Capri Watches Anyone???

Historical Tidbit : View from our boat ride around Capri Island: This Pink Villa perched high up on the Cliffside: was the meeting place between Britain’s Sir Winston Churchill, and The American President: Dwight D. Eisenhower: in 1943. They decided on the landing of the Allied Troops at Salerno!.

Friday, April 27                  Sorrento

Sorrento a piedi (on Foot): Our Italian Word for Today: Beautiful! Bellissimo!

On Friday 27th, we greeted the morning, on the Sunny Patio of our Hotel, with the  hills of the Sorrentine  Peninsula in the background: What a wonderful place to have our official Tour Meet and Greet ceremony!

After Breakfast, we met our trusted Local guide, Pasquale, and headed out to explore the town of Sorrento in a guided walk thru It’s fine old buildings & narrow cobbled lanes .We started off in the Piazza (“meeting Place”)  Tazzo, and worked our way thru  Sorrento streets, which dates back to the 6th and 4th Century BC.

This is St. Anthony Square, near our starting point :the Piazza Tazzo,  Sorrento, which dates back to the 18th Century.

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There are beautiful churches, the occasional palazzo and equally lovely shops, restaurants, and temptations of all kinds to discover. The ladies are thoroughly enjoying the scenery, the shopping, and so much more!

At lunch: Our Guide, Pasquale, referred us to a Lovely “Garden Oasis” restaurant; where we were so enamoured by the ambiance and  lush green surroundings, we spent most of the afternoon, relaxing and getting to know each other…while taking in the beautiful atmosphere.

Parrucchiano Restaurant: where some of the group, ate lunch; It was a big hit! then back to the Hotel.. for a short rest.

Desserts were the best delight for  Everyone:

For  Dinner: We changed quickly and headed back to town, for dinner at the restaurant: ” Circolo Dei Forestieri”

A bit of history on Sorrento: Situated at the north of Sorren tina Peninsula, the city’s name derives from its Greek origins, “surreo,” which means to flow together. This could certainly describe Sorrento’s history. The Greeks founded the city in the 6th century BC, and in the 4th century BC it was conquered by the Samnites, and later became part of the Roman Empire.

In 1861 the city was officially incorporated to the Kingdom of Italy, and it was soon discovered as a pleasant holiday resort for refined and intellectual tourists. Notable guests included Lord Byron, John Keats, Water Scott and Goethe. It still boasts the privileged title of “serena stazione de soggiorno” (peaceful holiday resort). It remains a prime tourist destination with plenty to do and see.

A ” Peaceful Holiday Resort” : This the Amalfi Ladies can attest to!

D ay 5: Monday, April 30             Cooking Class 

The sun was shining brilliantly at 10:00 AM, as we arrived at Ida’s Villa, a lovely traditional Amalfi Coast home. We quickly enjoyed a light breakfast in the beautifully appointed gardens, consisting of Almond Water, Coffee and cake, before donning our aprons, and getting ready to make our authentic Italian Lunch.

Enjoying the morning sunshine in the Ida Villa Garden

Our most enthusiastic Teacher aide!

Our cooking instructors for the day, were Marida and Roberta and a Darling little Helper, Charley’s Grand Daughter. They taught us how to prepare 3 dished: 1. Stuffed pasta with 3 cheeses: Ricotta, Mozzarella and Parmesan, cooked in home made Tomato Sauce. 2.  Herbed,baked Potatoes and 3. A Desert: Lemon Tiramisu.

Ready for Action:

The Lunch Dishes were based on perfect seasonal ingredients using the chef’s family recipes, and fresh herbs from the garden, including Basil, Oregano and Rosemary.

As we left the dishes to bake for 1 hour, we went  in to visit the family wine cellar where Charley ( the Wine maker himself) treated us to tastings of his Vintages: White Wine (named after his wife, IDA); red wine (named Charley) and a blend of Red (Charley’s Blend), that contained grapes with a Strawberry flavor! 

Tasting Ida : Their White Wine. Named after Charley’s wife.

Charley’s Red: His signature Wine,

A gift of Canadian Ice Wine from Niagara: WHo knew: That was his favourite??

After this, we Enjoyed the fruits of our labour:  lunch under the pergola, consisting of Fresh Salad, baked Cheese Pasta, Meatballs & Potatoes and Lemon Tiramsu.  All accompanied by Charley and Ida’s pleasant wines.

The time of Reckoning is now! How will it taste?  We left feeling very sated. We thanked our Gracious hosts  and headed back to our hotel for some much needed down time. Our previous 2 days, were very full, touring Capri, on Saturday and 3 Amalfi towns on Sunday!  Read about these in separate blogs, for Day 3/10 and Day 4/10, respectively

Tiramisu Desert, the lemon Zest was so tasty in the cream sauce

Starters: Tomato and Cucumber salads, and Fried Zuccini flowers.

Our individual Stuffed Pasta, was incredibly delicious!

Meat Balls and Herbed Potatoes.

Day1: Thursday, April 26th 2018: The Gang’s All Here!
The Amalfi Ladies (15 + Tour Host, Rowena) have safely arrived in Sorrento, Italy! There have journeyed from  many parts of Canada,  to participate in this Women’s Travel Network (WTN) & WWQuest Tour, thru the beautiful Amalfi Coast.
We celebrated the start with our welcome dinner this evening, in the dining room of the Grand Vesuvio Hotel. Due to one  too many flight delays, we were a bit tired for any formal introductions. However, after a good night’s sleep we will be ready to hit the road with our local Guide in the morning. Sorrento, here we come! Stay tuned .

You couldn’t tell that these ladies had only arrived, a few minutes ago at our hotel, some of them travelling over 19 hours to get here!

These were the luckier ladies who had arrived somewhat earlier, so they had time to get dressed for dinner; and were definitely, more relaxed!

Location: Grand Hotel Vesuvio