Sorrento and The Amalfi Coast – A Jewel in the Mediterranean

This place was always on my list of “must dos in life” as I had heard and read so much about this place, such as “it’s one of the most naturally beautiful places on Earth”, “the Amalfi Coast is one of the most spectacular coastlines that exist” etc. but I was determined to see it and judge it for myself despite what Byron, Caruso, Goethe, Wagner and many other famous visitors had written!

So, imagine my delight when I came across this school , only metres from the sea and beach and right in the heart of the city! I was given the unique experience of not only learning the Italian language, but also learning about the amazing Southern Italian culture so far removed from our own, and the staff were so welcoming and friendly as is traditional with Southern Italian hospitality.

It was like going back in time when I went to Pompeii, Paestum and Herculaneum and then it was like being among the ultra-chic when I went to the Isle of Capri and Positano for shopping, so many worlds all rolled into one, I absolutely loved it!

One of my favourite things was spending every morning in the main square sipping my cappuccino and eating my continental breakfast before I went to the school. I liked doing what the Italians did, it was so different to my normal routine of getting on the commuter belt, running to the office, doing the 9 to 5 and then hitting rush hour!

And then, of course, there was the food! Well, nobody cares more about the quality of food than the Southern Italians so I got more than I bargained for, and they considered it an offence if I didn’t eat everything I was offered, from home-grown wine, fresh mozzarella, pasta and I also had the chance to visit a local ‘agriturismo’ where I was shown how to make an authentic pizza! Let’s not forget the ice-cream, there were so many ‘gelaterias’ dotted around this area that it was like being in ice-cream heaven.

All I can say is that this place is now on my list of “must dos again in life” so if you find some time in your busy life to come to Sorrento, just like the song says, you won’t be disappointed!

Olga