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...I decided to stay for only three days. Because of my short stay I was able to justify staying at the Grand Hotel Serbelloni. Now, living at this level of opulence is not my norm, but when in Rome as they say…

There’s a reason why Las Vegas decided to use Bellagio as inspiration for a casino, because it’s drop-dead, over-the-top, pinch me I must be dreamin’ gorgeous (just check out the picture)! It’s not large and it’s not cheap, but if you’re into beautiful alpine lake-side vistas (and who’s not really?) then this is your place. You may want to stay in the more affordable Menaggio located just a short ferry ride across the lake and day-trip to Bellagio. Regardless of how you do it, just get there!

...I didn’t have a place to stay and didn’t really know what I was getting myself into. If it weren’t for the fact that I just “had to go to there,” I may have never of gotten off the train. Boy am I glad I did!

As my friends and I hopped off the train we were greeted by the nicest old local. He happened to have a spare room and we thought, “What the hell?” We followed him through the maze of streets and ultimately ended up in the “room.” First of all, it just happens to be one of Rick Steves’ favorite places to stay while in Florence (he had a couple of pictures of he and Rick hanging on the walls to prove it). Second, the “room” was basically a large apartment complete with kitchen, waiting room, sitting room, another sitting room and bedrooms. I don’t remember what it ended up costing, but I remember thinking to myself when the man told us the price, “This guy must be off his rocker! There’s no way it’s this cheap!” Sometimes NOT having a plan is the best plan of all!

The what to sees in Florence are well documented, so I won’t go into detail here. Be open to chance and embrace serendipity. If you’re the type to have everything planned out when you travel, try chucking those notes, you never know what you’ll stumble upon!

...I was studying overseas – just 40 minutes west-northwest of Venice.

Venice is one of those places that cannot be justified in words, or at least I lack the talent to do it justice. Do go there for peace and quiet, nor to not-be-a-tourist, because you are. But do go there to see one of the most amazing cities in the world before it sinks into the gulf that bears its name!

...“Wow!” Was the first word that bounced through my mind as my friend and I were rounding the final bend that descended into the town. I wish we had more time to explore, but we were doing “the drive” along the Amalfi Coast and only had the day. I’m still absolutley amazed at how the Italians are able to get those buildings to stick against those seaside cliffs.

Someday, someday…

...I came away with a mixed impression. On one hand, the scenery is impressive (there’s a reason why Homer pontificated of it’s beauty), but on the other-hand, its incredibly noisy and crowded. There’s plenty of shopping to do (if you’re into that sort of thing) and plenty more restaurants to dine at, which I enjoyed. The nightlife (which I also enjoy) is lacking, but Sorrento does make up for it because of it’s location. It truly is the perfect launching pad for Positanto, Capri and a number of other destinations on the peninsula.

I went in with high hopes for Sorrento and I must admit, I was slightly disappointed.

...I had just arrived from Pompeii and I must admit, I prefer Herculaneum for two reasons. 1) It’s not as crowded as Pompeii and 2) The ruins are much better preserved. Oh, there’s a third reason, you can get much closer to the ruins as well – giving you a better look.

Go to both, but I’m betting you’ll prefer Herculaneum as well!

...my good friend Karlito came with me. There he is, looking all daper, standing amongst the pillars! I’d recommend the place for anyone who has an interest in ancient Roman architecture and a high tolerance for heat. There is also some nice frescos and views of Mt. Vesuvius. Purchase water (lots of it) prior to entering – you’ll thank me for this tip later! You’ll also need a reasonable tolerance of tourist (like yourself) because there will be plenty.

...I stayed in the most amazing “rustico” cabin just outside of Vernazza. Since you’ll find an abundance of information scattered in numerous places all over the web I’ll try and keep my general comments to a minimum and focus on the pieces of info that might not be so readily available.

First the cabin I’ve mentioned. It’s located just outside Vernazza as you descend from the Coniglia – Vernazza leg of the hiking trail. The picture I’ve posted is a view from the cabin. The cabin itself is small, however, you have plenty of room on the multi-level terrace to stretch your legs. The view cannot be beat. There was a local massage therapist operating out of a spectacular house just down the trail toward the town (it’s the cabin up-close on the right with the rocks on the roof). I tried to dig up her name, but couldn’t find it. If she’s still in town she won’t be hard to find as she’s one of two therapists in town. Her business card was at the internet cafe down on the main street.

Though you can get lost in just the “five lands,” if you have enough time you may want to branch out a little to other towns. Naturally, Porto Fino is worth a visit – a stay even, but if you’re looking for a unique day-trip try Framura. Its beach is located just off the train tracks, well sheltered and truly unique. The town itself is extremely small, but picturesque. If you’re looking for some chill time, this is the place. Spend an afternoon there getting away from the relative hustle of Cinque Terra.

...I tried to get into the casino wearing shorts! What was I thinking??? Anyway, it’s well worth the haul up the hill to the casino just come appropriately dressed, or you’ll find yourself having to do a quick wardrobe check.

Beyond the casinos, I’m sure you’ll find plenty to gawk at (the yachts in the harbor, the diamonds in the storefront windows, the endless stream of Ferraris buzzing by you). That’s all well in good, but IMHO, the best treat for the senses in found way up hill, on a nice perch, loosing yourself in the amazing view.

...I was coming off the tail end of a deep dive into canyoning, rafting and all other not-so-warm stuff in Switzerland. Needless to say I was in desperate need of some beach time. The beaches in Nice are different from many others that you may have experienced in that they consist mainly of well worn, rounded rocks. I actually prefer the rocky beaches to the sandy ones, as sand has a tendency of reaching some of the nether regions that I’d rather they not.

Aside from the beaches Nice is a rather quaint, smallish, low-key vacation spot. It’s in proper striking distance from Monaco-Monte Carlo, Cannes and numerous other French Riviera spots. Put a little cash in your pocket and stay in Nice and visit the other, more expensive destinations.