Shani Laplume
The Amalfi Coast, with its towering cliffs and stunning coastline, exceeded all my expectations. I cruised along the coast, taking in the sight of vibrant villages nestled high on the cliffs, and made my way to Positano, a picturesque town perched on the hill, brimming with quaint restaurants and charming shops. The Mediterranean sparkled beneath the sun, making the scene even more magical. Sorrento, famous for its lemons, offered a peaceful retreat, and of course, I couldn't resist sampling the renowned Limoncello.
Visiting Pompeii was an unforgettable experience. Strolling through the ancient ruins, preserved by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, felt like stepping back in time and served as a powerful reminder of nature's immense force.
Off to the enchanting region of Umbria, where I first found myself in Rome—the eternal city full of life and energy. I couldn’t resist tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain and making a wish before standing in awe at the Colosseum, where the whispers of ancient gladiators seemed to echo in the air. Walking through the Roman Forum was like stepping into a living history book, each stone carrying a story. And, of course, no trip to Rome would be complete without visiting Vatican City. I wandered through St. Peter’s Basilica, completely mesmerized by its grandeur. One of the most unforgettable moments was a classic car drive through Rome at dusk—the city’s beauty unfolding as the evening light cast a magical glow. Just a short drive away, I also made time to visit Castel Gandolfo, the Papal Estate, where I explored its museum and felt a deeper connection to Rome's rich history.
Just outside of Rome, I discovered a whole new kind of beauty—one that stole my heart with its quiet charm. The Umbria, with its gentle hills and quaint villages, felt like the perfect place to slow down and breathe. Cortona, especially, felt like a dream come true. Walking through the very streets where Under the Tuscan Sun was filmed, it was like I had stepped into the pages of a story. And when I came across fields of sunflowers stretching as far as I could see, it was hard to believe such beauty was real. It’s like reliving all the movies set in Italy that I’ve watched over the years.
Finally, I made my way to Sicily, where I visited the charming village of Savoca, famous for its ties to The Godfather. Nestled in the hills, this historic town gave me a real sense of Sicily’s rich culture and timeless beauty. I’m hoping to return in the future because I know that there’s so much more to explore here.
There's so much more to Italy than I've seen, and my heart is already set on the places I still dream of visiting one day. This beautiful country has left its mark on me, and I can't wait to explore all the places I have on my list one day.