Shelter Island

Destination Shelter Island

Shelter Island, NY is located between Greenport and Sag Harbor on the east end of Long Island. It is definitely a hidden gem and a perfect summer vacation spot. So much so, that many people decide to make it their year-round home. In the first place, you’ll discover a wonderful mix of natural beauty, gorgeous beaches and beautiful wildlife. Shelter IslandSecondly, there are many delicious restaurants, a few hotspots and lots of fun. Let’s not forget sports. Shelter is a boaters paradise and a golfers haven. In addition kayaking, stand up paddle boarding and other water sports are available.

Furthermore one of the best ways to explore the island is by bicycle. Many hotels offer complimentary bikes. Therefore you can get some exercise before hitting the beach. There is something to do for everyone here. Let’s start exploring……

Getting to Shelter Island

The only way to reach Shelter Island is by ferry or boat. There are two ferry stations on Shelter: the North (Greenport) and the South (Sag Harbor). My favorite way to get here is from Greenport via the LIE and Sound Avenue. It is a pleasure to pass all the beautiful wineries and lively farm stands. The ferry ride is about 5 minutes.  Alternatively, you can also take Sunrise Highway into Sag Harbor and then ferry (three minutes) to Shelter Island.
North Ferry (Greenport) Prices:
$12 One way, $18 Round trip)+$2 per person
Passengers by foot $2
South Ferry (Sag Harbor) Prices:
$15 one way, $20 Round trip + $2 per person
Passengers on foot  $2

Shelter Island Restaurants

Chequit Porch

Shelter Island really has some fantastic restaurants. They cook with goods from local farms and fishermen, In addition, local oysters from the Peconic Bay are a delight to taste. Make sure you make reservations early, as these places get jammed during the weekends. Jump to: Shelter Island Restaurants

Shelter Island Hotels

Shelter Island

Shelter Island has some terrific hotels and guesthouses to make your getaway a terrific one. A few on the beach, Such as Pridwin and Sunset Beach. In addition, there are some with pools. Therefore, you can find the perfect place to stay. Jump to: Shelter Island Hotels

Shelter Island Sights

 

Shelter Island
Stars Cafe – a great little breakfast place in Shelter Island NY

BEACHES

Crescent Beach

My favorite beach is Crescent Beach. You will find a beautiful view, calm water and many yachts and sailboats. Not only can you play volley ball on the sand and indulge in various water sports, but  there is a huge tent for massages on the beach. In addition, you can cross the road and have lunch or a drink at Sunset Beach Restaurant.

Silver Beach, Shell Beach, Wades Beach, Upper Beach and Lower Beach are beautiful and quiet. These are typically in residential neighborhoods and used by the residents.


Verona Italy

Verona Italy the City of Love

Discover Verona

I just spent 4 amazing days in Verona Italy. It is known as the city of love and the story of Romeo and Juliet. I found it to be one of the most beautiful cities in Italy. For example Verona boasts stunning architecture, Roman and medieval bridges, ancient frescos on building facades, beautiful churches, lovely piazzas – the list of WOW just goes on and on!

Verona

Not to mention that flowers and greenery are everywhere. It’s a photographers dream city. In addition, it is also the home of Valpolicella and Amarone wines! That raises the wow factor to the roof!  This ancient city is built on the banks of the Adige River and it is one of the main tourist destinations in Northern Italy. Once you visit, it is easy to see why. This city of love and passion is a must see.

Verona Piazza della Erbe

Every step is a surprise….

To truly discover Verona is to take hidden little streets. There are  wide roads dating back to Roman times, but also little, narrower medieval ones which hide treasures and amazing sights.

Explore VeronaVerona City Map

As you can see from the map above, the historic center of Verona is built between a narrow river bend. It has many popular attractions and is a totally walkable city. For example, to walk from the top of the map to the bottom is no longer that 20 minutes.

‘What to see in Verona’ Get the scoop on the most popular attractions.

Things to do in Verona’ – Check out the best tours – walking, biking, rafting, wineries……

Pictures of Verona Attractions

Piazza delle Erbe

This is my favorite and most picturesque piazza.

Piazza BraPiazza Bra Verona

This tremendous cobbled piazza has a park on one side and a line of restaurants and cafes along the other.

CastelvecchioVerona Castelvecchio

A spectacular medieval fortress which now holds a museum.

Verona ArenaVerona Arena

This ancient arena still has performances to this day.

Juliet’s HouseJuliet's House

Verona and love go together like Romeo and Juliet. This is a must-see attraction.

Sant’ Anastasia ChurchSaint Anastasia, Verona

Located by Piazza dei Signori, St. Anastasia is the biggest church in town.

Basilica of San ZenoSan Zeno, Verona

San Zeno Church is a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture.

Via MazziniVia Mazzini, Verona

Evening strolls and chic boutiques are the highlight of this most popular shopping street.

Pictures

VeronaVerona Market at Piazza Erbe


Sorrento Italy

Sorrento Italy

Explore charming and delightful Sorrento. It rests atop a cliff on one of the most beautiful and loved coastlines in the world. Sorrento Italy guarantees stunning views. You can see the glistening Mediterranean sea below from Mount Vesuvius to Capri – it is truly breathtaking. Certainly it is one of Italy’s most popular vacation destinations since ancient Roman times. Check out Getting to Sorrento from Naples for any travel help.Sorrento, ItalySorrento Italia, known for appetizing food and unique lidos, also has beautiful art and architecture. The charming historic center is made up of lovely narrow cobblestone streets. There are many cafes, boutiques and shops catering to your every taste. It is impossible to avoid lemons and delicious limoncello here – it is known as the land of lemons!Italian Ceramics Lemons Not only is Sorrento is a perfect base for visiting the Amalfi Coast Italy, but also nearby islands. A short ferry ride can whisk you away to gorgeous Capri and Ischia. Moreover, if you are historically minded, it is easy to get to Pompeii and Herculaneum. Also, a short 35 minute drive will take you to Positano. Excitement and wonderful possibilities await you on your Sorrento holiday.

Things to do in SorrentoWedding in Italy

The town itself does not have a great deal of attractions. Therefore it is mainly used as a base from which to explore the surrounding areas. I recommend a two night stay if you are going to visit Capri. Also, It makes for a beautiful wedding backdrop, if you are inclined to tie the knot. On the other hand, it is so sweet to see a lovely bride and groom!

Explore Sorrento

First of all, take a stroll on Corso Italia. It is the main street in town with plenty of stores, hotels and eateries. During the evening, it turns into a lively pedestrian only walkway. Equally important is to explore all the alleys and lanes in this historic town. There are many cafes, shops and boutiques to discover. Sorrento walkwaysDuring your stroll, you will frequently stumble onto sculptures and art randomly mixed into the surroundings. Consequently you may find sweet surprises as you walk around.

Sorrento art sculptures

Especially make sure to take a walk to the Villa Comunale Park which is at the edge of the cliff. There you have a spectacular panoramic view  of the sparkling Bay of Naples. By the park you will find a winding walkway carved into the cliff. It leads down to the sea and lidos. The walk is a photographer’s dream – don’t forget your camera. Conversely, there is also a lift to take you up and down for 2 euros.

Moreover, here you will find Chiesa di San Francesco, a 14th century church. It boasts a gorgeous garden/courtyard with occasional art displays and showings. All are welcome to enjoy the tranquil beauty you will find here.Chiesa di San Francesco, Sorrento

Piazza Tasso

Piazza Tasso

Piazza Tasso is the main square of Sorrento. Live music, horse carriage rides and a mini tourist train are found here. Tasso is the town hub. It is lined with cafes, restaurants and shops. Be sure to order a cafe and enjoy the scene as people go by. During the evening, live musicians perform wonderful Italian music! Additionally, you will find another staircase here that will lead you down to the port and lidos.

Sorrento

On the whole, Sorrento is a fun, lively and wonderful town to visit. It is easy to get here from Naples and is a great first stop on the Amalfi Coast. I suggest staying a night or two before heading to Positano, Amalfi or Ravello. Also consider staying on Capri for a night or two.Sorrento

Sorrento BeachesSorrento Beaches

Definitely make time to enjoy a day at the beach. Sorrento has unique lido’s with piers that jut out into the water. Check our my Sorrento Beach page for comprehensive info and rental prices.

Sorrento Restaurants

Of course, there is nothing better that great Southern Italian food! There are so many restaurants in Sorrento to choose from! Savor these amazing flavors at some of my favorite restaurants in Sorrento.

Sorrento Hotels

Get information on the best Sorrento Hotels from luxury to budget on my hotel post!

Sorrento, La Favorita

Nightlife in Sorrento

Fauno Notte ClubFauno Notte Club Sorrento

Fauno Notte in Piazza Tasso is a late night dance club. DJ and dancing fun. Most arrive after midnight and it closes at 5am!

Filou ClubFilou Club Sorrento

This club/piano bar is so much fun! Sing with the piano man to great Italian and American tunes. It gets an after dinner crowd and is a definitely a blast! Sorrento Italy has a fun nightlife!

Day Trip to CapriCapri Italy

Take a hydrofoil to the gorgeous island of Capri.


Positano Italy

Positano

Positano Italy is a stunning cliffside village located on the Amalfi Coast. Certainly a top resort destination, it is truly a jewel and not to be missed. Indeed, you will fall in love with Positano!  Bougainvillea, vegetation and flowers cascade down buildings and balconies. Boutiques, galleries and eateries line the streets. It is a shoppers paradise. There is a array of amazing hotels and delicious restaurants. Positano is absolutely fabulous, dripping with charm, and there is something to do for everyone!

Positano, Italy

Picturesque Positano Italy is a magical and enchanted village known throughout the world. Celebrities arrive by land or by yacht in the  summer. It is built into a cliff and is also called the Vertical City. With this in mind, an unusual network of stairways enhance the town. There is only one street for vehicles. Hence, the rest of the village is pedestrian only. Getting around by foot will let you appreciate pastel-colored homes, flower filled terraces and endless steps carved out of the rock. There are narrow pedestrian alleys and, of course, steps that flow down to the busy harbor and beach.Positano Beaches

The beautiful beaches are the main event and a hub of activity. You will relax and swim in the sparkling blue Mediterranean. Then have a delicious lunch along the walkway. A perfect way to spend the day!

GETTING AROUND POSITANO ITALY

Via dei Mulini is the main road through town that leads down to the beach. The center of town begins at Piazza dei Mulino, which is where all vehicle traffic ends. After that, Via dei Mulini is pedestrian only.  It is a pleasure to stroll and browse in all the art galleries, boutiques and various shops. Try to stop in at Sapori e Porfumi di Positano. The fragrance of the candles and perfumes are fabulous! If you’re lucky to have a chat with the ‘Lemon Lady’, you will find that she is an amazing entrepreneur and spirit! Of course, you will also find an abundance of restaurants and cafes.Positano Shopping

You can reach every corner of this beautiful area without climbing countless steps. The local bus service is easily accessible. Bus stops are indicated with the sign Flavio Gioia and the orange busses have three routes: Interno Positano , which departs every 30 minutes from Piazza dei Mulini which tours around town. Montepertuso Nocelle departs every hour and goes to the higher communities. And lastly, Praiano-Positano, which brings you to the nearby town of Praiano. Furthermore, if you need information on getting here from Naples, read my Naples to Positano Guide.

Those charming steps…..Positano Italy

A few steps from the beach, you will find the church of Santa Maria Assunta. It features a majolica-tiled dome and a 13th-century Byzantine icon of the Virgin Mary. Legend says that in the 12th century AD, a ship carrying this same icon came from the sea during a huge storm. The sailors all heard a voice saying, “Posa Posa” which means “leave me here”. Thus the name Positano.  Moreover, this is why the Madonna has been kept in Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta ever since.

Posa Posa – We DO NOT want to leave! Feel the warmth and friendliness of the wonderful locals. They are so welcoming. Take joy in the beauty of the landscape, the gorgeous views, and the pretty beaches. Positano Italy is simply magical!

Positano
Remember to bring your camera everywhere!

The BEST of……

Positano BeachesPositano Amalfi Coast

If you’re looking to bask in the Mediterranean sun, you will love the beaches here.  Sun lovers will enjoy a beautiful smooth pebble beach and gorgeous blue water. Read about Spiaggia Grande and the beach clubs…..Comprehensive Guide to Positano Beaches.

Positano Hotels – Best in TownPositano Guide

If you don’t know the layout of the land, or should I say mountainside, it could be a challenge to pick a hotel.  Do you want to be in the heart of town; high up on the cliff with stunning views; or down by the beach with fewer steps to climb.  I will help you in my comprehensive Hotel and Orientation Guide.

Positano Restaurants – Best in Town

The restaurant scene here is buzzing with delicious Southern Italian food and beautiful ambiance. There are so many excellent choices for you!  Restaurant Guide

NightlifePositano Nightlife

Nightlife in this glamorous town consists of everything from dining in a cliffside restaurant with a panoramic view to dancing till the wee hours of the morning in the hottest Amalfi Coast club.  Nightlife Guide.

Getting to PositanoPositano Transportation

Closest Airport:  Naples Capodichino (NAP).
Various transportation options are available such as: ferry, train & bus, private transfer, and car rental. For comprehensive information on transportation choices, CLICK HERE.

Positano Amalfi Coast
Beautiful Steps
Positano Steps
More Steps!