by LAURA TABOR
Lifestyles Reporter

Naples, known as the capital of southern Italy, was not always a tourist destination, and to some extent, still isn't. It was a crime ridden, dirty city filled with crazy drivers and mafia activity, and there was a nice, nearby town (Sorrento) where people could go if they wanted to see nearby impressive sites like Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius.

I stayed in Naples, and honestly fell in love with the city. While I'm pretty sure pickpocketing still abounds in the city, and some street vendors can be persistent, I experienced none of the crime-reputation that Naples afforded. I didn't go out at night, so I can't speak to that, but during the day, walking around Naples was fun.

This is truly a place where people spill out of their homes and into the streets. I saw people laughing and talking in rapid-fire Italian on every path I walked down, and their adorable, round-faced children were always running around or walking with them wherever they were going. Shop owners were friendly and helpful, even when I spoke only 10 words of Italian and they only spoke 10 words of English. The drivers are indeed crazy, with the only rules seeming to be 1) get there as quickly as possible and 2) don't kill anyone. Otherwise - all bets are off. Don't play chicken with one of the many demon-speed motorscooters in this town.

The Bay of Naples affords beautiful views of the Mediterranean - walk down the seaside streets and enjoy the views, or slip down to the rocks by the water and try wading or sun tanning. For a free and lovely view of the city and sea, climb up through the Castell d'Ovo, (Egg Castle), which is from the 13th century and has lots of beautiful arches and battlements.

Also, try local food as much as possible - Naples is famous for its pizza, but also try its cheeses, pasta, and, of course, gelato. Since it is a slightly less touristy town then most other major cities in Italy, the food prices are correspondingly lower, but markedly higher in deliciousness. Ask locals or people where you are staying where to get authentic meals on the cheap.

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