Postcard #1
Hi everyone, first solo trip of the year! This time, my postcards are coming to you from Naples, Italy; a lot warmer than our previous winter holiday! Southern Italy is a place I've wanted to experience for myself since a young age, especially after discovering it's the origin of staples like pizza, pasta, lemons and tomatoes- all personal favourites of mine.
Experiencing a different culture has always been a fascination of mine, and a strong inclination towards my love of travelling. Naples certainly did not disappoint, with its bustling streets and roaring motorbikes around every corner. Walking through 'residential' districts like 'Quartieri Spagnoli' and seeing flat upon flat down a narrow street, is a common lifestyle in Italy and areas of Europe, and the sense of community is a lot tighter within these areas.
While photographing Naples and admiring the stunning views of Mt. Vesuvius, I discovered that the city has very deep connections to Catholicism, which is clearly demonstrated through beautifully designed churches and cathedrals; in particular, the crypt dedicated to San Gennaro, who is considered the 'patron Saint of Naples.' On the contrary, one of the most famous tourist attractions to visit is the 'Busto di Pulcinella;' a bronze statue representing a famous figure in Neapolitan puppetry, who is known for his 'comedic devilishness and insolence.' It is customary to rub his nose in order to bring good luck... perhaps that is why this trip was such a success!
Postcard #2
Pompeii. Need I say more? We all know the story of how a volcano wiped out an entire town, and it's become such a fascination to us that archaeologists are still making breakthroughs and discoveries to this very day! To shoot such a historic place was a dream come true. Learning about how they lived over 2000 years ago whilst walking upon the cobblestone streets was one of the best moments of my trip.
What truly captured my eye while photographing the ruins, was the fields of poppies and daisies in the abandoned grounds. I am unsure if this was an intentional symbol of remembrance, or simply the blooms of spring, but it brought joyous colour and life back into a city of tragedy.
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The day progressed into a quick visit to the coastal city of Sorrento. I wasn't able to spend as much time as I wanted exploring, yet I knew immediately after arriving that I wanted to return one day, to spend more time walking around the city. The streets were immaculate, and the architecture felt modern yet classic...as if I had somehow entered a Hollywood film set.
As you may be aware, Sorrento is famous for its lemon produce... and for good reason. While researching this trip, I came across a restaurant in the city centre in which you can dine underneath a lemon orchard. As the sun shone through the lemon trees, it was a treat to be able to enjoy a nice relaxing meal in such a unique atmosphere.
While heading down towards the port to Naples, I couldn't help but admire the views of the crystal clear waters, and the colourful beach houses by the pier. I can only imagine how relaxing it would be to relax on a deckchair for a while, and just absorb all the wonderful views of Sorrento. Next time, I will definitely be staying for longer than an afternoon!
Postcard #3
Traditionally, the island that most tourists visit from Naples is Capri... however I believe that an island of equal beauty would be that of Procida; a small town off the coast of Ischia. I had never heard of the island until researching for this trip, but by the end of the day I had fallen in love with its summer colours and quiet, idyllic lifestyle.
Exploring such a small island, you soon realise that everybody knows everybody, and there is such a tight knit community between the locals. I can only describe it as a safe, welcoming environment to walk around in.
The most popular attraction of the island would have to be the Marina Corricella, known for its popular fishing spots, as well as its colourful 'terra murata' of old fishermen's houses- now converted into seaside restaurants and bars. As you walk along the marina, you may even be able to spot a few fish swimming near the surface!
Although the island is small, it's filled with so many hidden gems to shoot, from the narrow shopping streets, to abandoned ruins at the top of a hill. I felt privileged to have visited, and the cherry on top of my visit was the gorgeous sunsets over the sea as I head back to Naples for the evening.
If you are visiting this province of Italy anytime soon, I would strongly recommend spending a day admiring the beauty of Italy's 2022 'capital of culture.' You won't regret it.
