Hits The SpotThe night began with hairy anchovies, which were mostly salty but actually meaty. While most Americans have had anchovies, we bet most of you have never had Amphora which is a taste of every creature (seems like it) in the sea. The Amphora is a big terra cotta pot of seafood, including mussels, prawns, and a whole octopus; the head of the octopus is considered the treat.
We also had spaghetti covered with olive oil and the black ink (sepia) of a cuttle fish, which gave the spaghetti an earthy taste. The ink served by itself makes your teeth black.
AnticipationStepping off the train, we are immediately surrounded by the ocean with a backdrop of hilled vineyards. At once we yearned to sit down over some local wine, cheeses, and meats to soak up the romance of the Italian Riviera. From hilly vineyards to a quaint village to the inviting beach, this is a moment to relax and reflect upon the beauty of Italy.
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Monterosso al Mare...Quiet, Quaint, QuenchedWe arrived at Monterosso in the Cinque Terre, and were pleasantly surprised! When we think of vacation, we think of a spot such as this: quiet, easy going, serene view of the ocean, small town life, boutiques, and fabulous spots to eat. We loved the quaint and homestyle feel of this place compared with the chic and bustling lifestyle of Florence. While Florence has all the art and fashion, this little place has all the romance and feel of what we imagine as Italy; it is refreshing and serene.
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Adept & AstuteMonterosso is a quaint paradise whose charm can be discovered on your own. No guide needed.
The CharmTonight we learned how to prepare traditional Pesto, which is made by mortar and pestle. It was very aromatic as it was all fresh ingredients, and it was delicious on bread. After we made a "meal" from the pesto and bread, we were served meatless lasagna. For our next course, we were served fish with green peas, completing the meal with perfect Cinque Terre white wine. Just when you think you couldn't eat another bite, out comes dessert!
IntermissionThis quaint village beckoned us to shop. Having been one of the first Rick Steves tour groups to arrive in Cinque Terre after the flood of October 2011, we felt it was only right to patronize the businesses of the wonderful people of Monterosso. When we were visiting Vernazza, our guide told us about her husband's shop just recently opened in Monterrosso. He is an artist and below is the painting we purchased of beautiful Vernazza. We also purchased some local Cinque Terre white wine, which is produced locally and in limited supply.
..hmmm....We just had to throw this picture into the page as well. That Jamie, he is British and bloody fun!
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