See Naples and die (in a good way)

I don’t give a damn about my bad reputation…

Andy Warhol's Vesuvius at the Madre Museum, Naples

Naples makes no apologies.

It is what is is.

There are cities in the world that have a unique energy/vibe all their own… New York, Paris, London, (to name a few)

If you are open you can feel it resonating from the streets, the buildings, the people…

“Vedi Napoli e poi muori” /”See Naples and die”

-Virgil  (2,000 years ago  – referring to the natural beauty of Naples )

Naples has a bad reputation which for some is fearsome and repelling, and for those few they wish not to visit. However I found it all very curious and hungered to understand why. Could it possibly be worse than New York City in the 1970’s?

When I first visitied I found a chaotic city, dirty, and possibly the European version of Calcutta. But as I wandered the streets I found a city misunderstood by outsiders. A city rich in tradition  and culture and like few others I had ever seen. An big, gorgeous onion with layer upon layer of wonderment, a city with inexaustable energy where everything is a scene: the sounds, the visuals, the smells – it is feast for the senses. But to see it you must look beyond the grunge and riff-raff of “Napoli centrale” railway station.

I live about an hour from Naples and try and visit as often as possible, and encourage other travellers that I often host – to do the same. This blog is dedicated the city I adore – that again and again, welcomes me with open arms.

With that said, with the posts to come: I give you an alternative look at Naples, as well as other parts of the Campania region.

The following “Under the Naples Grunge” is a post dedicated to Naples from my other blog/diary entitled:

 “Pasta for One: Adventures of a Single Gal Living in Italy”

And a shamless mention of My B&B if you ever feel so inclined to visit the Amalfi Coast or Naples area…

My Salerno Apartment

Cheers and xoxo,

 CM