Amalfi Coast Love Affair Photos

“I don’t know what it is about the Amalfi Coast that tugs at my heart and makes me wish I was there, more than any other place in Italy.”

***

These are the first words from my latest book, My Amalfi Coast Love Affair, released in October of 2018. And although my words will hopefully paint a picture for you, I decided to share some of my photos from the Amalfi Coast to complement some of the stories you’ll read about in the book.

“I find peace and solace along the Amalfi Coast, especially whenever I stare at the azure water of the Tyrrhenian Sea.”

I have traveled to the Amalfi Coast more than any other area of Italy and have fallen in love with the beauty of its rugged landscape and rocky coastline.

“But it’s more than being near the sea that beckons me back to the Amalfi Coast. The individual little towns that sprout up from the rugged landscape and steep rocky cliffs present their own appeal and special sense of character for me. Tiered, colorful communes which were once simple fishing villages fascinate me with their miniature shops and trattorias.”

“For me, one of the benefits of taking the ferry is experiencing this coastline from the perspective of the water. As the first of the towns comes into view, a surge of adrenaline courses through me, and I can hardly contain my sense of excitement. Like a postcard, Vietri sul Mare is in full view, from the sea all the way up the mountain. I try to imagine a fisherman near the marina dragging his catch up those hills at the end of his workday. “

“We meet Alessandro, a good-looking, tanned taxi driver, wearing sunglasses and a smile and sporting a fashionable turquoise sweater over a white-collared shirt. Very easy on the eyes. He offers to drive the six of us to the center of Capri for twenty euros—a bargain when split six ways. Within seconds we’re climbing into his very cool white Nissan Serena Capri open taxi. I’ve never seen such a chic taxi, but this is the land of luxury where they cater to the lifestyles of the rich and famous.”

“The woman introduces herself as Amalia, and she encourages me to take all the photos I like. Her English is excellent, and with a native Italian accent, her voice is pleasing. “I was just going out, but please come in. Go and see the garden.” With an enthusiasm and kindness that I’ve come to know as a trait of Italians, Amalia turns back toward her casa, eager to show me the garden and yard with its colorful flowers, inviting chaise lounges, and an ancient olive press that dates back to the thirteenth century. Indeed, the scene is welcoming.”

“When friends wistfully tell me they’d like to travel as much as I do, I have one piece of advice for them: Carpe diem. Make it happen. You are in control of your life. If you want something bad enough, do what it takes for your dream to come true.”

“I’m returning to the Amalfi Coast, but this time everything is different. I’m traveling with someone special, someone who’s made a difference in my life for the last three years. While I never expected to meet someone and fall in love again, I’ve learned that life is full of surprises.”

***

If these excerpts and photos intrigue or inspire you, you will likely  might enjoy reading My Amalfi Coast Love Affair. The book is available in digital and paperback format on Amazon and can also be ordered through bookstores. I enjoyed writing it and hope you’ll enjoy reading it.