Join A Secret Italy

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR FREE EZINE

Why I Love The South of Italy

People have this idea of Southern Italy in their head, a mixture of pizza, sunshine, mafia, crime, grime and chaos. The people are friendly but the drivers are crazy.

The reality of Southern Italy is a little different to the stereotypes.

For a start Southern Italy is one of the safest destinations on earth. Contrary to popular perception, mostly created by the media, it has one of the lowest levels of violent crime on earth. The main risk is pickpockets in the big cities of the south but not much elsewhere.

There also is far less grime than you'd think. The only place in the south that I have ever found to live up to the grimy stereotype is Naples.

Some of the stereotypes are true though!

The pizza is the best, the people are super friendly, the summer sunshine is endless and... the driving... well it is CRAZY!!

I cannot emphasize enough how wonderful the south is. You really need to live it for yourself, begin your journey on https://www.italymammamia.com/southern-italian-destinations.html

It is all about moments...

House on the Minori to Ravello walk

The one thing I love most about the south of Italy are moments when something enchanting happens to you in the most beautiful setting you've ever seen. It is almost as if you are in a movie, experiencing some poignant moment that will stay with you forever. Here is an example...

One sweltering summer's day I was huffing and puffing my way up the 2000 steps from Minori to Ravello, when a wizened gentleman of around 90 came sailing by, also on his way up the stairs.

I gasped "how do you do it?" Loaded down with bags, he just smiled and offered me a a bottle of water and a packet of crackers from his bag.

Then he said, "I used to run up these stairs at your age. I live down below and worked as a builder in Ravello. Up in the morning, down for lunch, up again after and then down home."

With a wave he went on his way. I sat down to sip on the water and recover my energy.

No wonder they live so long along the Amalfi & Cilento coasts - all that walking, all that up and down. Yet, they've always time to stop and have a chat, to help out a stranger and to make you feel like you belong. Maybe that kindness and caring is another reason they live so long?

Looking for More Videos?

You'll Enjoy These...

Things to Do in Bari & Reasons to Love Bari

In many ways it is in Bari that the heart and soul of Puglia is to be found. Bari is real, Bari is vibrant and Bari is enchanting. Watch out for flying wooden spoons though!
The Best Southern Italian Destinations

South of Rome we go, taking you on a journey discovering the very best Southern Italian destinations. You may know of some of them but others I am sure you have never heard of.
Matera - Ancient and Full of Life

Once the shame of Italy and now one of her crown jewels. Matera is the original Italy, ancient beyond all other towns, another world. Prepare to be amazed, enchanted and beguiled...
What to See in Sicily

Wondering what to see in Sicily? We've a lot of fabulous suggestions that you will absolutely LOVE!

Please Book with Us...

Maria here, if you enjoy my site and Facebook page I'd love your support.

Simply book your next trip anywhere (not only to Italy) with the search box below or with any of the hotel links on the website.

I promise you'll get the best deal on accommodation available and the income we receive from HotelsCombined helps us to:

Stay independent and to keep bringing you the best of Italy.
Never have to accept money from hotels directly; that way we can share only those we genuinely love.