I had a refund from Trenitalia and I really needed a break from my non-AC apartment. It was a perfect little trip.
I walked around the Historic Center and took a lot of pictures. For lunch I sat on La Cantinella Gaetana's outdoor patio and enjoyed the cool breeze. The restaurant a friend had suggested, Masaniello, was closed for lunch.
I had a conference call, so I headed back to Rome after lunch. I would love to return to Gaeta and explore the area a little more. There are national parks near by, beautiful beaches, historic churches, etc.
The locals were very nice and also very tan. A group of outrageously gorgeous people got on the bus on their way to the beach. It was too much. To paraphrase Zoolander, they were really, really, ridiculously good looking.
There is also a NATO base in the area, where many Americans are stationed.
It's about an hour train ride from Termini to Formia station...30 euros round trip. You catch the local Cotral bus to Gaeta. Buy your ticket (one euro) at the newsstand in the station before getting on the bus. It's approximately 15 minutes to the Historic Center.
Walking around the hills reminded me of St. Martin. I was happy to see the ocean.
It was so quiet. There were hardly any tourists. I saw a few Italian families taking photos.
Gaeta is closer to Naples than it is to Rome. The history (see link above) of this small ancient city is incredible. During WWII the German troops who occupied the city made the locals leave. Those who couldn't, were sent to concentration camps.
8 comments:
I don't suppose there would be lots of American tourists in Gaeta. I was wondering if the downturn in the US economy was slowing down tourism in Italy but what do you think?
Beautiful pictures! Funny I've been there a couple of times, but you have views I've never seen! If you go again try the gelato at Il Pinguino.
homebody - I just saw on the news that this year the amount of tourists from the US to Italy has increased by 20%. I think one big reason is the better exchange rate.
Gil - thanks for the tip. I really want to return.
I found Gaeta really really dirty and messy...
But I visited it several years ago... maybe it has been improved...
Looks amazing what a great way to escape the heat!
anon - I was only in the Historic Center which was very clean. Can't speak for the beach area or the rest of the town.
sm - it was...the heat last week was unbearable.
Looks beautiful! I really want to see that church in person. Thanks for sharing!
Laura - You're welcome.
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