Dogs
by leics
In Sorrento (actually, everywhere I went this trip) I learned that lots of people have dogs. And lots of people seem entirely happy to let their dogs wander around by themselves, and the dogs are entirely brilliant at avoiding cars/scooterini. I'm used to seeing cats in Italy (and elsewhere) but encountering so many dogs was a new experience (resulting in not many cats too!).
I like dogs, but am very wary of those I don't know. However, it soon became apparent that these wandering canines were not in the least bit interested in me (apart from a rather lovely one in Amalfi, who attached himself to me for a walk along the prom). Even the 'stray' dogs in Pompeii/Oplontis were not bothered; they just pootled around doing their usual doggy thing regardless of visitors.
How many dogs were 'strays' and how many simply having a good time looking after themselves I couldn't tell. Certainly not one of them looked underfed, and most of them looked pretty clean too. The dog in the photo, gazing longingly at the closed door of the butcher's shop, was just trying it on, imo!
As far as I could tell, the only thing to be wary of is what they leave behind them on pavements.
Public transport
by lynmur
In and around Sorrento there are public buses and an hours ticket is 1 euro - we got a day ticket for 2 euro 10, you can also get weekly passes.
We used the train to get to Pompeii which was cheaper than going on the organised trips 3 euros 70 return - in fact I would recommend trying to do all the trips yourself if you can its much cheaper and also gives you plenty of freedom to come and go as you please.
We took the hydrofoil to Capri for 22 euros, then the funiculor railway into Capri town - cant remember how much that was but it was defiately cheaper than doing an organised tour. You can get the all the surrounding sights on the local bus and although they do pack as many people as possible on to the buses they are a much cheaper way to get around. We were going to go to Positano and the Amalfic coast but just never got round to it but most people who did those trips did them in their own time using the public transport and enjoyed themselves just as much as doing an organised tour.
Excellent value
by hawkhead about Taverna Azzurro
Located in the Marina Grande, this is a good place to go for dinner or lunch. We were there in February for dinner and we were the only customers, although at lunch time there were several tables occupied. As the location is right in the Marine Grande, I should imagine that in summer the place is very busy and popular. The owner is hospitable and welcoming. Even with virtually no customers, all the tables were laid with cloths and cutlery and with fresh flowers. I say we were the only customers but half-way through our meal several fishermen appeared to watch the football game on the television (on but no sound) and we all had a pleasant time. Everything is freshly cooked and the helpings are large. The wine is served in litre-sized terracotta pitchers specially made for the restaurant.
The Amalfi coast
by malkin
The Amalfi coast including Positano and Amalfi is known world-wide for the sheer beauty of the scenery. Ravello is only a half an hour’s bus ride away from Amalfi and I believe is also worth the visit. The best way to see this area is by bus. Don’t bother to drive yourself, the roads really need 100% concentration from the driver and you’ll inevitably miss most of the scenery.
Easter Celebrations
by Jetgirly
I visited Sorrento on the Easter long weekend, and got caught up in the crowds during the Procession on Easter Sunday. All along Corso Italia people placed candles on their balconies, and hundreds of Church members were involved in the procession down the street to the basilica.