A Taste of Paradise...

What is Paradise? Ask this question and everyone will have their own ideas but the smile on their face is the same. Pure Delight just thinking of their reply! I can say without a doubt our trip to England and Italy last September gave us a taste of Paradise in every town!

 From the bustle of London to the magical streets of Venice, to the art of Florence, the vineyards of Tuscany, the history of Rome, and then the beautiful Sea from Naples down to Sorrento.  A special place in my heart belongs to the beautiful City of Sorrento.

 

     From our arrival by Water Taxi from Naples we could see it emerging on the side of the Mountain. The day was beautiful and after a train ride from Rome to Naples and a stop for Pasta and a quick Pastry we headed to the Pier and our Water Taxi to Sorrento! We were staying at Palazzo Montefusco and were told they would meet us at the Pier to help with the luggage. That in itself was  wonderful as I've explained in earlier posts that we had way too much luggage for a European Holiday. Of course lots of room to bring back treasures but maneuvering was tricky, putting it mildly!!!

A glimpse of Sorrento from the Water Taxi

Rocky and I arriving in Capri!

Angelo with me in the Lobby

with Giovanni

Angelo and Rocky

     After a quick call to Palazzo Montefusco Angelo and Giovanni came to lead us to our beautiful lodging. From the minute they arrived with our initial exchange I could feel the warmth from their smiles and eagerness to help with anything we needed. As we walked through the winding streets my eyes and senses were on overload to the beautiful shops, fantastic aromas of food being prepared and the sound of Church bells in the distance. Oh yes this certainly felt like Paradise to me.

Look at those Peppers and Garlic

Typical street in Sorrento

Beautiful Ceramics and of course Pagliacci the Clown

Carla, Serafina and I

People we met while having a Cocktail

Beautiful presentation Mussels Marinara in Copper Pan

     Upon arriving at Palazzo Montefusco we entered a  Courtyard and up steps into our building. It was decorated with all white furniture with a Modern motif. They offered us drinks right away and then showed us our room which had a balcony with French Doors looking over Main Street. I could see up and down and loved the airy feeling and being a part of such a lovely view. The Bed was super comfrotable and the Bath ultra modern with a multi jet Shower.  I felt as if I was staying at a spa. Later that afternnon we met Ivan the owner.  He and his wife Fabiana have two children and renovated and run the Palazzo almost like a hobby. They truly enjoy their guests and make every attempt to make you feel as if this is your home away from home. I believe there are only six rooms at the Palazzo and they cater to your every need. When Ivan learned my Husband liked a cigar once in a while he gave Rocky several to enjoy. One of the other nights I wasnt feeling well and Angelo came to the Pharmacy and helped me get some medication. We then went to dinner and when we got back Giovanni had a tray with Chamomille Tea for me. 

Look at the Cool Design on Wall!

Nice Leather Headboard

Breakfast Bar in the Morning

Look at those Croissants

Fancy Lighting in Lobby

Very Modern Bar!

Saying Goodbye to Ivan and Fabiana

    We were in Sorrento  for four nights and decided to stay an extra night and although they were booked they helped get us a room at another Hotel! Ivan also told us to come back and enjoy Breakfast with them and think of it as our home. Carla ( who also worked at the front desk) arranged for a driver to take us to Amalfi, Positano and Ravello as well as Grotta dello Smeraldo. There we took a boat into the cave which was so beautiful. Driving up to the top of the mountain and Ravello was magnificent. Our driver was great and gave us plenty of time in each place to explore and shop and of course we had a beautiful lunch in a Restaurant overlooking the Sea!
    The day we were leaving Ivans wife Fabiana came to say goodbye as well. They made our stay so memorable! Yes Sorrento is a piece of Paradise we will visit again and of course stay with our "adopted Family"!