Vieste
I have to admit that I knew nothing about the Gargano Peninsula and really hadn't done any research on the town of Vieste so it came as quite a shock to fall in love with this city. The contrast of white washed homes and vibrant blue water took my breath away as we approached the city. Our room at the Hotel Seggio had 2 windows that overlooked the Adriatic Sea. We left our windows open during the night for the breeze and the sound of the ocean!
The weather was perfect for a boat ride along the Gargano Peninsula. We went into grottoes filled with turquoise water. After this wonderful ride a trip to Capri's blue grotto didn't seem necessary. As we cruised along the coast line I could feel every ounce of stress leaving my body.
Back at the hotel we were given a pasta making demonstration. They make it look so easy! After seeing the pasta being made we got to eat it! You can't find pasta fresher than this.
 |
Tivoli
This morning we meet Maurizio, our Sicilian bus driver that will ultimately have to navigate the scary, curvy roads of the coast. Maurizio was always professional and our bus was spotless.
After the hustle and bustle of Rome it was nice to escape, just like the Emperor Hadrian, to the countryside. We arrive at Hadrian's Villa before the crowds and have several hours to wander the ruins. It feels like we have the place to ourselves. The villa is 250 acres of which only a fifth has been excavated. As we are getting ready to leave bus loads of kids start to arrive; waking up early has its advantages!
Our bus rides are broken up by frequent stops and often Heidi will use the time to tell us about the region's history, culture and local cuisines. There are even some crash courses in Italian, but sadly that is not something that my mind will retain.
Heidi took all interested parties down to the local market. All the food was very good and such a good deal. Andy and I got wine, prosecco, peaches, olives and cheese. We enjoyed an impromptu picnic in our room looking out at the Adriatic Sea. I swear life doesn't get better than this.
Dinner was on our own, but as we were wandering the city trying to decide where to eat we ran into some tour members and all eat together at Sapore di Mare. Heidi is already there and joins our dinner party. Andy bravely orders the grilled octopus while I have the less bold fried squid. Andy ate the tentacles, but decided to pass on eating the head! |
|
Memorable Meals: Pasta demonstration followed by broccoli pasta, spaghetti with tomato sauce and bean and pasta soup at Hotel Seggio Grilled octopus and fried squid at Sapore di Mare
 |
||
|
