The Road to Italy

Well, off I go again! This time I’m heading to Italy to visit my lovely friend, Nancy. She moved to Italy earlier this year, and I was excited to see her and see how she is settling into the Pugli region of Italy. I’m sure I will learn from her experience, and I’m excited to spend time with her.

The flight from Seattle to Rome was uneventful, but 11 hours of flying is never easy. I planned to take a train from Rome to Bari to Fasano where Nancy planned to pick me up for a 30-minute drive to her home in Cisternino. The airport in Rome was a 30-minute train ride to the train station in Rome. No issues there, but I realized after I left the airport that I had NO mobile service. I started to be concerned when adding a second esmin to my phone didn’t provide service either. I knew that I would need to be letting Nancy know how my travel day was going and that she would be concerned that I was not in contact.

Thankfully, finding the train to Rome was not a problem. But, navigating the train system in Rome to get to Bari without using my mobile, was a bit traumatic. I did find a lovely young man, who spoke some English. He helped me get a ticket and direct me to the right platform. The 5-hour train ride was uneventful….EXCEPT that it was 5-hours long after an 11-hour flight….and EXCEPT for the two American ladies who yelled at the conductors and the passengers because there was no room for their 2 suitcases, both the size of small trunks. Uggg.

The train arrived in Bari a bit late, so missed the train to Fasano that Nancy had told me to take. Now, I’m really concerned, because I know she will be waiting for me on the earlier train, and I have no way to let her know I will be coming in later. Can you say stressful? But, when I get off the train I hear Nancy calling my name. Thank goodness she waited for the next train!

Cisternino

This was my first trip to the Pugli area of Italy (lower boot section on the Adriatic Sea side).

Nancy has a lovely apartment in Cisternino. This beautiful old Italian town is distinguished by its preserved old town, where narrow lanes and shaded alleys open onto lively piazzas and breathtaking viewpoints. The surrounding landscape, characterized by dry stone walls and roofed homes (AKA Hobbit houses), adds to the town’s charm. It is very picturesque and it’s easy to fall into the rhythm of a more slow paced Italian lifestyle.

Every evening was a trip to the local wine bar for an aperitif! Life is good.

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Lovely towns in the surrounding area

We took several short trips to the towns of Locorotundo, Monopoli and Polignano a Mare. Two of these places were right on the Adriatic coast.

Locorotundo

This beautiful city set up on the hill and surrounded by walls is known for its picturesque whitewashed building. It is located in the scenic Valle d’Itria. We walked the city but ended up stopping at a wine bar for a 2-hour wine tasting. Some of my favorite wine were from that area of Italy.

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Monopoli

Monopoli is a charming coastal town in Puglia, on the Adriatic Sea, known for its beautiful waterfront, whitewashed buildings, and maze of narrow streets. Its historic center is particularly appealing, with stone houses, small piazzas, cafés, restaurants, and centuries-old churches tucked among the lanes. The town’s picturesque fishing harbor, lined with traditional blue-and-white boats, is one of its defining features. A walk along the waterfront and through the old town offers a wonderful mix of everyday Italian life and seaside atmosphere.

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Polignano a Mare

Polignano a Mare is one of Puglia’s most spectacular seaside towns, dramatically perched on limestone cliffs overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Its historic center is a maze of narrow whitewashed lanes, small squares, stone arches, and buildings decorated with flowers and colorful doors. The town is famous for Lama Monachile, a small beach tucked between towering cliffs, as well as its spectacular sea views and cliffside terraces. It has a distinctly romantic, postcard-like quality, with restaurants, cafés, gelato shops, and bars woven throughout the old town.

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My favorite part

While visiting in Italy, Nancy introduced me to several of her friends. All wonderful people that I enjoyed spending time with. Plus, wonderful food and wine.

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Beautiful olive trees

I wasn’t surprised to see olive trees. But, I was surprised to see these really huge, old trees.

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From Italy to France