Monday, January 13, 2014
In the
previous post, I've said something about Genova. It's just another large city in Italy. I was here twice; first was because it was way more economical to depart from Genova rather than Rome (that's a whole long story which I don't plan to elaborate) plus I go around since I've never been here. Killed two birds with one stone! Second time was en route to Portofino. Both trips are just a one-night-stay thing.
So I've walked around, back alleys, small lanes, etc. I didn't find anything interesting really. In fact I got lost but managed to find my way out. Asking is always the way to go - although I have to admit people in this city do not really speak English. I was so lucky to meet nice people though they could barely understood what I was trying to convey.
So I took a bus from the city to visit this place called Boccadasse. I don't even know which bus to take really... I just went on and asked the bus driver if it goes there. Even so, you will have to walk a distance before actually arriving to the place. I had to rely on Google Map to get to the place.
So why all the hassle to Boccadasse?
Here it is!! Such beauts! I had that wow factor when I saw this. Made my way down for coffee after!
Too bad I did not bring anything.. Should have gotten my towel or something! Nobody really gives a shit if you go naked by the way.
Another place worth going is the old port. Porto Antico they call it.
It's such a touristy place, but it's beautiful.
I couldn't be bothered with whatever historical building... Which was why I did not mention anything about it. If you do like it, go ahead and check out their famous galleries or museums. Don't even talk to me about whatever gallery as I'm not an artistic person. Clearly, I will not appreciate it.
Yup, just pick one I'll give it to you *coughs* (Totally reminded me of a jackass who does that all the friggin time!)
During summer, I was here for drinks overseeing the port and that sunset view. I came back again the second time (during autumn) but it was closed. Perhaps season does say something.
Eataly has quite good deals and varieties when it comes to food. It's facing the port so you can't really miss it.
So I've sat here for sunset. No I don't have some Qi powers to sit on water, just on zoom mode.
The pictures are rubbish to be honest. It's so different from what you actually see with your eyes.
Piazza de Ferrari during the day.
Piazza de Ferrari during the night.
This is a good place to en route to Italian Riviera, Portofino, Cinque Terre or whatever that you want to go to. The place is beautiful, but, it is definitely not really the place I would want to stay for long. There are a couple of beautiful things to see, but that's about it really. It would be good to put a night or two here though. :)
P/S: Do not attempt to drive here if you have never been here before!!! Well even so, if you are not familiar with the road it might drive you crazy. The roads are just so complicated, parking isn't really very convenient either. You'll waste precious time by going round and round and round. Lesson learnt!
Labels: europe, genoa, genova, italy, travel
Saturday, January 11, 2014
How to get to Portofino from wherever you are? There are several options. It also depends on where you're departing from. As for us,we took a train from Genova to Santa Magherita Ligure.
There are two options to get to Portofino from Santa Magherita Ligure. (1) by Ferry, (2) by Bus. Obviously, I would pick the ferry.
It's not difficult to find the pier. You can see the pier when you get out of the station. It would be about 8-10 minutes walk depending on your speed.
I don't remember the price of the tickets, but it didn't cost that much. Perhaps about; about €10 or lesser for a return ticket. Do take note of their timetable too as you wouldn't want to miss the last ferry!
Everything is Portofino is just expensive. From hotels to luxury goods and food. Food is terribly overpriced? It's the location.
Though, I have to admit it's a very nice place to chill; some wine and snacks would be good!
It's just a fishing village with a little harbour, and beautiful sea view? I just get excited over beautiful views. I mean, who doesn't?
Find the staircase that leads you up to the highest point to capture the picturesque view of the harbour. This was taken halfway through. Careful with the stairs, it was really wet and slippery when we were there.
So up to the highest point!
That mandatory "Let's take a picture together!" with my partner in crime ;)
There are a couple of historical buildings which I was not quite keen in knowing the history of it.
I don't really see the point of putting a night in this place. It's expensive and half a day would cover it.
Goodbye!
We walked around the town for a bit since we were already here anyway. Nothing special, just another typical Italian town.
What's next? Cinque Terre I hope! :) xx
Labels: europe, italian riviera, italy, portofino, santa margherita ligure, travel