Time To Be A Tourist

July 10

On the last day of area orientation, all the newbies ventured out with a tour guide into Naples.  We took a bus, train, and funicular (cable car) to get used to transportation methods available.  Remember, I'm not driving downtown!  We first went to Vomero, a nice area with shops and a sizeable outdoor market.  It was fun to look around and get a feel for italian shopping.  We then went into downtown Naples, il centro, the heart of the city.  Among the MANY things right there is the Galleria Umberto I, an architectural marvel named after a monarch, now filled with shops and cafes.  Here's the proof that I was there.

And right across the street from that is the famous opera house Teatro San Carlo.  In addition to operas, this theater also lays claim to having one of the best ballet schools in Italy (that's for you MC).  Couldn't get in (yet), but here's a pic of the outside.

All of this is near the port, where the big cruise ships come in as well.  As I walked around a bit, I realized that our July 4th shot in the dark excursion was right around the corner.  Wow, good job Will!

After an authentic, non-touristy stop for lunch and a likewise gelato, we headed back.  It was hot and we were ready.  Being a tourist takes a lot out of you.  This was also when everything started to catch up with me.  I was glad orientation was over and was in desperate need of some downtime.