Great Scottish Sunshine & The Amalfi Coast Diaries
An edition sponsored by Pope Leo and sunshine in Scotland
I’m not Catholic but this month I did learn that I am an eager follower of Conclave. Sure, watching the film starring Stanley Tucci helped and sure the memes also helped. But, in a world of access all areas, is there anything more fascinating that the things we will literally never know?
When I went to the Amalfi Coast a couple of weeks later, Pope Leo’s smiling face was everywhere. Grinning down from shop windows, his hand raised to bless babies from church doors and topless on the May page of the Pope Leo 2025 Calendar 2025. Turns out, much like British people don’t share enthusiasm for Brexit with tourists, Italians don’t share too much enthusiasm for Conclave with tourists either.
Rather than gossip about the things we don’t know here, I thought I’d focus on the things I do know - the Amalfi Coast.
But first, just to further shame Air B’n’B, I found these stats shocking. As you love hotels, locals and community, I thought you might find them shocking but interesting too.
It will be obvious, probably already, that the man who edits the grammar in this didn’t have the chance to work his magic. I can only apologise for the typos and anything that makes no sense. I can only assure you he will be back next month.
Bella! Let’s go!
Amalfi Coast Dairies
The Amalfi Coast is a damning place to see the true extent of how chic Italians are compared to Brits. Chewing on cannoli, I observed a group of Italian woman, not a hair out of place, not a bead of sweat on their brow and head to toe in designer brands. I can only confidently say they were brands because one had Vera Wang plastered across her arse and another had Ralph Lauren over her bosom. Immediately behind them, a group of gassing Yorkshire woman tumbled into the café. Sun burnt and sweaty, they insisted on sitting in the sun. Relaxed, one dug out a deep wedgie before ordering an Aperol Spritz and asking if it came with free nuts.
Flash, expensive and beautiful, it’s little wonder the Amalfi Coast is on so many peoples Italian travel bucket lists. The Amalfi Coast is sometimes super yachts, vast crowds and extortionate slices of pizza. But, the Amalfi Coast can also be hiking routes, sea swims and cheap tiramisu. It all depends on how you want to experience it. It might not be for everyone but there is almost definately something for everyone.
First you need to pick your base…
Sorrento
The gateway to the Amalfi Coast but not strictly speaking on it. Easy to reach and tourist infrastructure aplenty. Also, Irish pubs and a cruise port… take of that what you will.
Pro: Actually Cheap & Cheerful
Con: More of a sprawling town than a charming hill top village
Stay
£££ If you are spending proper money, do not stay in Sorrento
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