One of my favorite books among many is Permanent Italians: An Illustrated, Biographical Guide to the Cemeteries of Italy. I spent many hours reading this book in some of the most wonderful and peaceful surroundings in Rome and beyond. I highly recommend this book and thanks George Ciscle for the wonderful gift.
Amalfi Coast – Positano
View of Positano Harbor from Hotel Poseidon, Amalfi Coast, 2013
Of all the places in Italy that I have had the good fortune to visit the Amalfi Coast is the one place that I most often think about. There are not enough adjectives to describe the beauty of the convergence of the sea and the coastline. Easily reached by car via the Autostrada Del Sole “Motorway of the Sun” (A1) or taking the train from Rome to Naples and then taking a bus or taxi to the Amalfi Coast. If you drive you will definitely put a few notches on your drivers license as the combination of switchback roads and deathwish motorcyclists is something you have to experience for yourself.
Beyond the seaside towns of Sorrento, Positano, Ravello and Amalfi there are several other destinations I would recommend – Capri and Paestum being two of my favorites.
The best way to enjoy this part of Italy is by boat and there are many options from water taxis to private charters. I highly recommend considering renting a boat and spending the day with Barbara and Antonio local residents and two of the most charming people you could hope to meet. They are both very knowledgable about the history of the area and by boat can take you to some of the most spectacular grottos, coves, waterfalls, out of the way restaurants, and islands in the area. Barbara Tours Positano (Boat Charters)

Related articles
- Insiders Guide: Amalfi Coast (thetravelcocktail.wordpress.com)
- Hotel Poseidon, Positano (My favorite hotel in Positano)
- Autostrada del Sole, A1 (Milan to Naples)
- 24 Hours In Positano (The Sydney Morning Herald)