AITO COMMENT: That’s Amore, that’s Amalfi

Chandra Rowan of AITO agent Feherty Travel reports from Southern Italy on a fam trip with Classic Collection Holidays.

"After recovering from the shock of a 3am alarm call, 4am check-in and 6am flight from Gatwick to Naples, we were welcomed by warm, inviting sunshine. Our Classic Collection driver met us at the airport and took us on one of the most awe-inspiring and gut-wrenching rides of our lives along the Amalfi Coast. Never before have I seen such beauty – but felt such fear – at the same time! The cliffs offer an amazing view; it is hard to see where the sky ends and the sea begins.’¨

Our first night in Amalfi was met with excitement as we visited the beautiful resort of Ravello and dined in a 2 Michelin Star restaurant, which certainly lived up to its rating. Italian musicians serenaded us with "That’s Amore" on tiny wooden guitars, while we ate a four-course meal accompanied by perfect wines, all locally produced. This was Italy at its very best. ‘¨

After a gentle drive up the coastline, we arrived at the charming little town of Positano, featuring buzzing shops, cobbled streets and sidewalk cafes. The views seemed to follow us and, for me, this was my favourite place so far.

The overall highlight of my trip, however, had to be the visit to Pompeii. Accompanied by our Classic Collection rep, Sarah, we set off on the local train journey from Sorrento, for a mere €3.50 return, to the ancient ruins. The journey was flawless and so simple and, after a very active afternoon, we came away with a humble appreciation of life.’¨

After a wonderful afternoon in Sorrento, we spent our last night eating at the amazing Restaurant Tassa, a local pizzeria that comes highly recommended. The food was fresh, service was excellent and the local atmosphere was brilliant – all this for an extremely modest price.

For me this is what educational trips are all about – experiencing the local surroundings and bringing away with me not only wonderful memories, but very useful information for future guests.’¨

Unfortunately the weather was not on our side for our journey to the island of Ischia. Heavy downpours and windy conditions met us at the port for our ferry crossing. However, arriving soaked, cold and sea sick was soon forgotten when we laid eyes on this beautiful island. It’s Italy’s little secret. Along with breathtaking views, sandy beaches and friendly locals, it has to be one of the most picturesque places I have visited in a long time.

This hidden gem is about 40 minutes from Naples by ferry and it’s a geothermal island. The geothermal activity, caused by nearly 40 underground dormant volcanoes, helps create thermal pools; the constant source of heat via this natural phenomenon is thus used to heat water, floors and even the walls of most hotels.

Ischia is the ultimate destination for thermal spa treatments and, it goes without saying, relaxation. Staying in the Hotel Manzi, which boasts the island’s largest spa, certainly gave us that feeling.’¨

So, as I sit here and reflect on the trip, I have to say that, for me, the real importance of educational trips is that I can go home and share my passion and knowledge of this wonderful destination with my clients.

Clients not only want your experience – they want your first hand knowledge too. You can only become this motivated by experiencing destinations for yourself."