Day 1: Napoli, Italy

Eager to enter the city of Napoli we exited the port into the parking lot where dozens of tour guides and drivers were standing outside their Mercedes vans holding up different family names. Searching in excitement we found a slender, clean cut, middle aged man wearing a light grey suit holding a sign that said “Holbrook”, after a brief introduction we piled into a new Mercedes van and we were off to our first destination. As we were driving the driver quickly began explaining about the local economy and how it thrived on tourism and olive juice. When my brother asked him a simple question about football (soccer), he got really excited and went ranting about how important football is to everyone in Europe (we then shared our condolences for Italian team not doing so well). Shortly thereafter we pulled into our first stop, the ancient city of Pompeii.

In the year 62 AD an earthquake shook the city of Pompeii collapsing buildings and destroying much of the city. For 17 years they focused on rebuilding and repairing damages caused by the quake. Then in 79 AD the nearby volcano of Mt. Vesuvius eruptedsending thick ash and rocks into the air that would bury the city of Pompeii under nearly 30 feet of debris from the eruption. Those that were not killed by the falling buildings and debris fled the city then upon returning to assess the damage of the city were killed by the deadly vapors left in the air. Although this event was a huge tragedy, many archeologists are grateful the thick layer of ash from the volcano preserved the city to be seen today. The intricate layout of the city along with proof of running water shows us that even thousands of years ago they were very advanced in their abilities. Today the city of Pompeii is the most visited cite by archeologists in Europe and still today many parts of the city are being unearthed and restored.

We then left and began seeing the local city Sorrento and then to the magnificent island of Capri. The island of Capri was a favorite get-a-way for many of the Roman emperors, including a villa for Augustus Caesar. After taking advantage of the islands panoramic views of Sorrento and Napoli we indulged in genuine Gelato ( the best ice cream in the world).

I loved spending time with the people and I thought it was so great how friendly all of locals were. It seemed like everyone was a friend. The people were so kind and considerate it almost felt as if we were old friends. After leaving the city of Napoli I realized that life is beautiful, sometimes it is not as exciting and easy going as we would like it to be, but that doesn't mean I can't smile and be a kind and considerate friend to those I come in contact with. The great people of Napoli just seemed too good to be true.

Although my time in Napoli was unforgettable, I was excited to head off to my next experience in Athens, Greece.