16 Nov 2022
Our group of six rode comfortably in an 8 passenger van with a very skilled driver, Rosario and friendly guide Diana. Our time was limited in port so we opted for this private tour so we could see the most in a period of six hours. Fortunately we had great November weather and traffic was light on Sunday. Because of the time restrictions we imposed on the driver and guide the tour was basically a photo op on the Amalfi coast. There are a few flowers in bloom at this time of year but most of the blooming is dormant at this point in the season. We spent about 45 minutes in Sorrento walking around and shopping on our own. Arrangements for lunch were made by the tour guide at a beautiful restaurant overlooking the water called Calajanarra Restaurant. ( definitely a highlight). The Amalfi Cathedral visit was an option for those who wanted to make the steep trek up the steps. We should have made enough time to visit the Duomo in Salerno where the crypt of Saint Matthew resides but some of the group were anxious to get back to the ship. ( We had taken a bus tour to Sorrento three weeks earlier and the traffic was horrible) Salerno has significant history for Americans during World War II. We had asked about it but never got much of a response. It would’ve been nice to have communicated with the actual tour guide prior to the tour in order to let her know the time limitations. She had a plan but had to readjust with the time constraints. I would recommend a private tour when You have a limited amount of time but do your homework and communicate ahead of time what it is you want to see and do. Also remember that some of the restaurants and shops are beginning to close for the winter season but the views are always magnificent!