Naples Warnings Or Dangers

Okay, okay, this is only going to fuel the Americans' inveterate paranoia - but why should they care what the world thinks when they so often don't give a damn what the world thinks. On a more positive note, any American who is willing to take an amused rather than a redneck view of such a sign will probably find the Neapolitans standing around laughing with him.

Workers in Naples are, for one, lucky to have jobs, as unemployment here is one of the highest in the country, but this doesn't appease them. There has been more than a handful of strikes since I've been going to Naples for the past three years. They are useless, and cause nothing but difficulties for the citizens. I've seen strikes from the train workers, Tangenziale (freeway) toll booth workers, Bus drivers, Gas station attendants, and I'm sure there are more.

Be warned, and just hope you aren't trying to get from A to B when there is a bus or train strike.

You can be sure that in many spots around Naples someone will try to wash your car windows, but I'm not convinced they were ever cleaner afterward. Anyway, to avoid "having" to pay the guy some money, just turn on your windshield wipers and repeat "No, No" as many times as it takes. They will also sell you tissues, cigarette lighters and air fresheners. If you need a pack of tissue, go ahead and pay the guy a Euro. Just know and expect this activity while in Naples

These two guys were parked here for a few minutes when the polizei approached and started "convincing" them to move. This discussion went on for a good ten minutes and they finally moved the vehicle. They were trying to unload some clothes to a nearby store.

Beware in the area of people trying to sell you anything in passing by. On my latest trip I was approached by no less than four individuals trying to sell cell phones and video cameras. If you buy one you will end up with a fake, or even worse, an bag full of rocks.

There are places, like in any city, where you should not go or should be careful. But with common sense, you should have no problems. Watch out late at night, especially if you are a woman or by yourself.

There are thieves and pickpockets in Naples as elsewhere. Avoid showing off expensive jewellery. Keep money safe in deep pockets and don't walk around with all your worldly wealth about you. Many hotels have safes where you can leave valuables, but make a photocopy of all your documents in case of loss. Taking such simple precautions should ensure you have a relaxed stay.

When driving from Naples to Agropoli, and from there on to the Amalfi Coast, take great care as the roads are high and winding along the mountains.

Here is a photo of the road as we drove from Agropoli to Amalfi.