Naples and Positano

Naples and Positano... These two cities are practically foils for one another -- opposites in every way, but each with their own merits. Positano is a beautiful, elegant, and rather posh beach town that screams charm. It is absolutely no surprise to me that the Amalfi coast has what is considered the number one beaches in the world. Be warned however. It is a challenge to get to if you do not possess a car. From Naples, we took an hour and a half train ride to Sorrento followed by an uncomfortably crowded hour bus ride to Positano's edge. From there, probably about 200 to 300 steps await you to get to the beach. It is well worth it.

Naples, on the other hand, is rough around the edges. It is considered the third world of Italy for a reason and gives off an unsafe air of chaos in its streets. This said, every restaurant that I ate at was spectacular and every person I met personally was very nice. My advice in regards to Naples is be on your guard. Keep valuables underneath your clothes, do not go out late at night and be vigilant on the sidewalks as more than once I witnessed motorcycles and mopeds using them as roads. Finally, make sure to make time to go to the National Archaeological Museum of Naples where you will find artifacts from Pompeii and the fascinating room of indecency!