After traveling for the past five weeks in Italy, including a cruise to the Greek Isles, my adventurous ride is finally winding down and coming to an end. I am on the last train back to Venice, and tomorrow I will fly back to my home in Florida. These past weeks have left me with so many incredible experiences, good times with new friends, touching moments with the friendly Italian people, delicious seafood, homemade pastas, perfectly grilled vegetables, fantastic wines and prosecco, and memories that will remain with me for the rest of my life.
I feel mixed emotions as I say goodbye to Italy, the place I feel so at home, and look forward to returning to my own house in Florida, and seeing my family and friends again.
I have not even made a dent in keeping up my blog about all the places I visited and how my days were filled with amazing times. I tried to capture some of those moments with my camera. And I do intend to write about them in the weeks and months ahead.
As I look out the window of the high-speed Italo train from Rome to Florence to Bologna and to Venezia, I appreciate not only the beauty of the tall cypress trees and the hills and mountains in the distance, but I think back to some of the people I have had the pleasure of meeting in Italy.
A young man who graciously offered to lift my heavy large piece of luggage into the overhead compartment of the train, with a smile and telling me it was no problem.
The young girl in Naples, who works in the oldest optical shop in the world. Her name is Libera and she patiently took her time explaining the history of the building which was once a cloister.
Andrea, the young driver in Matera, who made several stops to allow us to have the best panoramic views of this unique city built from caves. What really moved me though, was hearing his perspective of today’s world, and how tourism would change the simplicity of his city. He acknowledged that yes, it would improve the economy, but also that everything is not about money, and that their simple lifestyle of leaving doors unlocked and living a quiet life was not a welcome change. Such wisdom from such a young person.
Nicola, our driver from Drive Amalfi, who drove us from Positano to Naples in a comfortable Mercedes van. He entertained us with his sense of humor as he spoke honestly about the realities of relationships in Italy, and how the mother of the Italian family is respected and the one with the real power in the family.
Giuseppe, Luigi, and Antonio, the three young guys on the beach in Polignano a Mare. They looked like male models in Speedos and were happy to talk with us for a bit and pose for pictures!
So many people and so many beautiful times ~ Stay tuned for the stories coming up as soon as I have a chance to recover from jet lag.
vacancestoscane
It would be great to welcome you in our region Chianti next time !!
margieinitaly
Grazie! I have been to Castellina in Chianti several years ago. When I return to your area I will be in touch!! Ciao a presto!
Diana
Margie! Great pics! That one with the men in their swimsuits had me laughing a lot! So funny….I think it would be hard to find three men like that in America. Great shot!
margieinitaly
Yes Diana – A lot of people like that Eye-candy pic!
timelessitaly
Margie, this is an excellent summary of our Italian Adventure! Each photo sparked a warm, fun memory. Thank you for spreading the beautiful aspects of bella Italia
imarancher
Margie has that effect on her topics and her readers.
timelessitaly
Yes, she sure does!
margieinitaly
SMILE
margieinitaly
Thank you, Susan..we did have the most amazing and unforgettable adventure together!
imarancher
Andrea in Matera bears a striking resemblance to Ringo Starr, including those square hands (drummers note hands).
margieinitaly
Interesting observation, Bonnie
Greg Devlin (@GregDevlin)
Hi Margie, well we hate to see you have to leave such a beautiful place, and so many beautiful people but it till be good to hear of all the details when you return. PS I believe that the MOTHER of the family is the real power of ALL families around the world (Whether the guys want to believe it or not). Trust me, with 6 Women in my home I know….lol
margieinitaly
You are avery smart man Greg! I like your comments about the MOTHER in the family
Marita Lichtenstein
Enjoying your photos on line. I’m jealous of all your travels. How’s your italian coming?
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margieinitaly
Ciao Marita! Great to hear from you! My Italian is not as good as it was when I stayed in Italy for three months but It is ok..I can speak and understand enough to communicate with some of the locals
Stephanie Christenson
safe travels home! xoxo
94 degrees today, you sure you want to come back? lol
margieinitaly
Thank you Stephanie!!
gene hull
Oh you poor girl, having to put up with so much unpleasantness on your trip. Hee hee.
margieinitaly
Thanks Gene – Always the comedian! I appreciate your following my blog and commenting, my friend!
Rae Pfundt
Cannot wait to read more about your latest travels. I am using your book, ‘Memoirs of a Solo Traveler….’ as part of my research for my upcoming Dream Trip To Italy that I have waited over 42 years for!!! I have highlighted many parts and am making copious notes to bring along. Thanks for sharing your adventures!!!!
Rae
margieinitaly
Thank you very much Rae! I love that my book is helping you plan your dream trip to Italy! Please stay in touch. I’d love to follow your travels when you go!
lee
shall be curious how you enjoyed ‘small group travel’ vs solo travel………
margieinitaly
Thank you Lee…I like both and will be writing about it soon!
Greg Speck
Beautiful photos Margie, welcome back to Florida where it is un po ‘caldo! I think travel to Italy is all about the people. They are kind and very interesting. My wife and I have met so many wonderful people on our travels.
margieinitaly
Thank you Greg…It was hot in Italy too..I had a great time but it is always good to be home too. Thank you for your comment. I am glad you and your wife have had wonderful experiences in Italy as well