Simon Calder's report on Naples - Tips
Posted On
03.10.07
The Amalfi Coast is my favourite drive of all of Europe. Have mid-morning coffee in Sorrento, lunch in Positano and spend the afternoon in Amalfi. But one day is not enough – there are just so many great cafes, restaurants and places of interest, you will not be able to do this in less than a week. Trevor Smith, Travel Counsellor
Naples does not have the same high level of tourist-focused street crime as Rome. But as a large city with pockets of poverty, some pick-pocketing and bag-snatching prevails. Obvious signs of wealth, such as expensive cameras and jewellery, should be kept in your hotel room – along with precious documents such as passports and tickets. Women travellers who can cope without a handbag will probably have a more relaxing trip. Simon Calder, travel writer
A visit to Capri is a must. The island is a combination of simple living and busy glitz. Regular summer services operate from Sorrento and Positano. David Jones, Travel Counsellor
To see the views from the sea rather than the road, there are lots of boats that you can hire for a trip between Positano and Amalfi, most with a driver. A rib (rubber inflatable boat) takes up to eight people and provides a most exhilarating ride – but it’s too fast and bumpy to take photos Jane Zollo, Travel Counsellor
A trip to Pompeii really warrants a full day to see the whole site. As an alternative, try Herculaneum (Ercolano). This is a town rather than a city and is better preserved than Pompeii as it was not covered by lava, only mud and debris when Vesuvius erupted in 79AD. David Jones, Travel Counsellor
A must is the 3 Michelin Star Don Alfonso Restaurant Don Alfonso 1890 in Sant Agata for fantastic food and service. Be sure to ask for a tour of the wine cellar after dinner. Also try a different glass of wine with each course Jane Zollo, Travel Counsellor
You don’t need to tip as extravagantly as the American cruise-ship passengers visiting Naples, who have created a certain amount of ‘tip inflation’ with their 15 or even 20 per cent hand-outs. The average Italian waiter or taxi driver expects much less from the typical client: five per cent is generous, and a few euros as a modest gesture of thanks is sufficient. Simon Calder, travel writer
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