SATURDAY

(16/3/19)

In addition to teaching English during our time in Italy, we are being taught Italian. Our host Daniela arranged this for us and insists that in addition to learning the language we must experience Italian culture. Our first Italian class is on Monday, however on Saturday night Daniela took us to visit the nearby city of Castellammare – Castle on the Sea. As we arrived, the sun was started to set and the view across the sea to the Castle on the opposite side of the coast was spectacular. The sky tinted pink with candy floss clouds. The sand still dyed black from the volcanic eruption all those years ago.

We walked along the beach promenade to the other end of the coast line. My apple watch long since indicating to me that I had completed the necessary number of the steps of the day.  We reached funny looking ‘fountain’ – water flowing from 5 spouts spaced out along the harbour wall. Daniela explained that this was fresh water all the way from the top of the mountains which, incredibly, is naturally carbonated. As I drank from my cupped hands, I couldn’t comprehend how this water could possibly become fizzy on its travels down to the fountain. The water is named after the Madonna and is called “l’acqua dei navigalori” – The water of the navigators (the fishermen of the town). The residents of Castellammare claim the water can cure almost anything – with doctors still prescribing it to cure various medical conditions such as gall stones and infertility.

Daniela also introduced us to one of her favourite Italian snacks/desserts. We had a traditional Italian donut – deep fried and coated in sugar. I wish I had taken a picture before I inhaled it in 0.3 seconds. The donut shop exterior will have to suffice. It is already very clear to me within my 2 days of being here that Italians love sweet things. Very sweet.

We drove home via Pompeii and had the chance to see the main square and cathedral.

At the end of a very pleasant evening, Daniela opened up her home to us and invited us to have tea with her family. The food was incredible and the company even better. Since arriving, Daniela has made us feel extremely welcome and at home and could not do more for us.

I look forward to seeing more of the beautiful sights that are right on our doorstep.