More of that soon. Early start, as I had to be at Naples Airport at 5 am for flight to Dubrovnik. The distance between them is only 235 miles; but in the real world I had to fly 690 miles first to Frankfurt; wait over 2 hours; then 692 miles to Dubrovnik. Got here at lunch time. The airport is miles outside the city, so had a taxi ride 300 kunas which doubtless made the driver very happy! He dumped me at the city gates and told me to go left and right and I’d be there!
On the map I could see the street my apartment is in. BUT, there are no street signs whatsoever (probably to preserve the historic nature of the walled town. And every shopkeeper I asked didn’t seem to have a clue where my street was (even though it turned out to be almost next to them). Then came the SHOCK. My apartment is near the top of a lane that rises steeply from the main street to the level of the city walls. There are 66 huge stone steps to get to the front door; and hauling a 20kg suitcase up them made the climb of Mt Vesuvius almost child play. That’s not all: once inside, another 44 narrow steep steps up to the attic where my apartment is. No clue to all of this from the map or spiel when I was doing the online booking. I think the lesson is: easier looking in from the outside than trying too hard to get the authentic taste. I had a good sleep once I had cooled down.
Actually the apartment is quite nice. got everything, including free internet. Mine host is very friendly and helpful, and has promised to drive me to the bus station on Thursday for onward trip. I hope that means he is going to carry the suitcase to his car park outside the town walls!
Took a local bus from the city gates to the bus depot out along the harbour to buy ticket to Sarajevo for Thursday. Only 1 bus a day, so needed to be sure I got on it. The newer city outside the historic walls is quite modern, and in usual style strung out along the waterfront mainly. Back inside I did an initial wander, and must say I am quiet impressed. Tomorrow will learn something of the history and the more recent war. Today a public holiday,and streets crowded with tourists.
At mine host’s recommendation I searched out a little eating place called Moby Dick. Since all I had eaten today was 2 airline snacks, I was ready for a good meal. Spag bol for starters; the Italians couldn’t do it better. The calves livers and onions, with a side salad and steamed cabbage and potato. With a big beer to wash it down, I needed to go for an after dinner stroll. The place is quite magic at night with very effective lighting of the old buildings and good street lighting.
After that, 66 + 44 steps again (minus suitcase this time) and I reckon I will sleep well tonight.
A new tourist attraction I have noticed around Naples and here: wine tasting, but also olive oil tasting!
Just a few initial photos tonight here.
2 comments:
Hi Ron
You're a better man than me Gunga Din.....I would not have even attempted the steps and checked into the nearest hotel. Thank God you are not there for long as 100+ step up and down the lane of pain is nothing to look forward to.
Hope Dubrovnik is worth it......love...pat oxox
Hi Ron
I don't think you will rest until you hit that cruise. You won't want to get off.
Enjoy.
Jan
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