The Getaway ...to the South....

The Amalfi Coast

Contemplation

I have long understood that I reflect deepest when I am alone. While enjoying social groups and interactions, a balance of alone time is important. This gives me a way to consider, reflect and ponder my experiences- and recharge my own sense of self and purpose. For this reason, I decided to go to Amalfi for the weekend. Navigating public transportation, (busses, and trains), and including a ferry hopping form - that would eventually leave me in Amalfi. This proved the most scenic and relaxing experience to date.

Ferry Hopping: Napoli-

Ischia - Capri- Positano- (and more) - Amalfi!

This portion of the trip included sorting out how to get from Napoli to Amalfi - with the most scenic route - rather than the fastest route. Often in our lives we have choices on how to get to places we want to be - and sometimes the slowest way there can be the most meaningful.

I was able to find a port shuttle (bus) from Napoli train station - kind of - that was going to the port - MANY busses have signs that SAY they are going to the 'ports' - but only one - designated off the proverbial path - does go there - and I was the only person on it - !

A ticket - obtained after much discussion - most tourists wanting to port hop are looking for a return journey - mine was a one way ticket - and involved a 'ferry - transfer' - and eventual arrival. These are all small ferries - no cars - and very enjoyable - all with a bar for drinks on board, and very relaxing and friendly environment.

Community: Built on Cliffs

These various communities are literally carved into the rock of the cliffs - and finished with a facade of sorts to make dwellings. Each community is connected by a cliffside roadway that is barely wide enough for one vehicle. Boats of all kinds are active - sailboats - fishing boats - motor boats - but unlike much of our local waterways (in Ontario) there is a conservative and quietness to the waterways that brings a calm. Each community has its own church - and I can say that the Amalfi Cathedral is vibrant and active. People in the little shops do live here - and there is a connection to the area that permeates this part of Italy. It is precarious to live on a cliff - and in making a living by fishing in the sea. There is something to be said for the sense of unity in 'community' that comes from living so closely and in needing each other.

"Don't Squeeze the Lemons!"

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