Sunken Mosaics & Volcanic Wine: An Invitation to Baia

 

Imagine gliding over the submerged villas, paved imperial roads, and pristine marble mosaics of Roman emperors—without ever having to put on a wetsuit.

Then, stepping right off the boat onto a sunny marina, taking a seat at a private harbor-side table, and enjoying a masterfully paired seafood lunch featuring local, volcanic wines while the head chef explains the secrets of the morning’s catch.

This isn’t a daydream. It is a highly curated, half-day sensory journey, and I would love to invite you to experience it with me.

On Saturday, 11 July 2026, I am hosting Ancient Baia & Local Flavors: A Curated Coastal Immersion.

We are completely bypassing the crowded, rushed tourist routes of Campania. Instead, you and I—alongside a tiny, intimate cohort of just 10 travelers—will spend a leisurely afternoon diving deep into the living history, geology, and gastronomy of the historic Port of Baia.

Part I: The Roman Las Vegas Beneath the Waves

Our afternoon begins at 12:00 PM at the Port of Baia.

Long before it was reclaimed by the sea, Baia was known as the "Las Vegas of the Roman Empire"—the ultimate, hedonistic coastal escape where emperors, generals, and poets went to build their most opulent thermal baths and private villas. Today, due to a unique volcanic phenomenon called bradyseism (the gradual rising and falling of the earth's crust), this entire imperial playground lies beautifully preserved at the bottom of the bay.

To study this underwater wonder, we will board a specialized glass-bottom vessel chartered with our maritime partners, Lomar Dreams.

Our maritime study will be led by Alessandra Fragole, the chief guide and spokesperson for Lomar Dreams, who will conduct our private tour in both English and Italian. Together with my ongoing cultural and historical commentary, you will look directly down through the glass keel to view the stunning, intact floor mosaics of the Villa a Protiro and the hauntingly beautiful imperial statues of Emperor Claudius’s submerged nymphaeum.

Part II: Volcanic Terroir & Table-Side Translation

After we dock, we will walk just a few steps along the marina to our reserved outdoor table at the acclaimed Riccio Restaurant perched right over the glassy water.

Here, our culinary and enological seminar begins:

• The Volcanic Wine Flight: The Campi Flegrei is an active supervolcano. The sulfur- and mineral-rich soils here produce some of the most unique, highly saline, and heritage-rich wines in the world, like Falanghina and Piedirosso. I am co-hosting a custom sensory wine pairing flight with resident Sommelier Roberta Di Meo to show you how this intense coastal geology translates directly into your glass.

• The Kitchen Dialogue: I will serve as your personal cultural interpreter and translator for Executive Chef Agostino Alboretto. Chef Agostino operates on a strict "zero-kilometer" (chilometro zero) philosophy, working directly with local fishermen who hand-deliver the catch of the day to his dockside kitchen. You will have the rare opportunity to ask him questions about regional seafood preservation, traditional Phlegraean cooking methodologies, and his kitchen secrets while I live-translate the conversation table-side.

A Beautiful Keepsake: The Exclusive E-Magazine

I believe that the best travel experiences shouldn't end when you leave the table. To make sure you can recreate the magic of our afternoon at home, every participant will receive an exclusive, beautifully designed digital E-Magazine published after the event.

This curated keepsake will capture:

• The historical highlights and archaeological background of the sunken ruins we studied.

• Sommelier tasting notes, flavor profiles, and pairing guides for the volcanic wines we enjoyed.

• Behind-the-scenes recipes and culinary philosophies shared by Chef Agostino during our lunch.

Join the Cohort: Spaces Are Strictly Limited

To keep this experience deeply collaborative, personal, and conversational, I have capped our cohort strictly at 10 guests max.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, 11 July 2026

• Time: 12:00 PM – 3:30 PM (Please arrive by 11:45 AM for check-in)

• Location: Port of Baia, Naples, Italy

• All-Inclusive Fee: €130 per Adult / €80 per Junior (Ages 7–12)

• Booking Deadline: Saturday, 4 July 2026

⚡ Early Bird Incentive: The first 3 spots to register and pay will save €5 off their experience tuition (Adults: €125 / Juniors: €75).

Our booking policy is fully transparent: Cancellations made on or before 4 July receive a refund minus a 20% booking fee to cover pre-secured maritime assets. After 4 July, all bookings are final, but your seat is 100% transferable to a friend.

How to Secure Your Seat

Are you ready to step off the beaten path and experience the authentic, volcanic soul of the Campanian coast?

👉 [Click Here to Request Seat Availability & Booking Info] Alternatively, you can send me an email at andiamotrips@gmail.com, or a WhatsApp at +39 3485907349 with the keyword "BAIA" to check if a spot is open at the table.

I can't wait to share this beautiful afternoon on the Tyrrhenian Sea with you! Ci vediamo a Baia! 🥂✨

The Next Stop is Here: Dive into Rione Sanità, Naples' Best-Kept Secret!

I am so excited to share my latest passion project with you. In my last issue, I drifted through the quiet, pastel-hued streets and lemon groves of Procida. But for this edition, I'm taking you on a quantum leap into the raw, electric, and utterly magical heart of Naples: Rione Sanità.

If you've ever wanted to truly experience a neighborhood that wears its soul on its sleeve, this is it. Sanità is a beautiful contradiction where ancient history, deep spirituality, and a cutting-edge youth-led art revolution crash together on every single street corner.

I’ve packed this Master Edition with all of my favorite neighborhood secrets. Here’s a tiny taste of what is inside:

• The Deep Underworld: From the 2,400-year-old painted Greek tombs of the Cristallini Hypogeum to the eerie, beautiful "cult of the skulls" at the Fontanelle Cemetery.

• Baroque "Flying" Staircases: The gravity-defying courtyards of Palazzo dello Spagnolo and Palazzo San Felice (you’ll recognize these from My Brilliant Friend!).

• Modern Masterpieces: Standing face-to-face with Jago’s breathtaking Veiled Son and exploring his open-air church studio.

• Canvas on the Streets: Tracking down Bosoletti's massive "RESIS-TI-AMO" bridge mural, the glowing "Luce" mural, and the colorful street library of Vicolo della Cultura.

• The Ultimate Foodie Shortlist: Where to find Isabella De Cham's legendary, feather-light fried pizza, Poppella's cloud-like Fiocco di Neve pastries, and the best street-side aperitivo tables.

Best of all? I've designed this issue around a brand-new "Choose Your Own Adventure" style. No rigid timelines here—just 5 tailored travel personas (from the Urban Photographer to the History Sleuth) designed to help you conquer the valley based on whatever makes you tick.

Are you ready to descend into the valley of the soul?

READ THE RIONE SANITÀ MASTER EDITION ONLINE HERE

Pack your sturdiest walking shoes and leave your expectations behind. I'll see you in the valley!

Love my travel content? Creating The Next Stop guides is a true labor of love. If my public transit tips, street-art routes, or pastry recommendations help you discover the magic of Naples, please consider supporting my independent journey by buying me a coffee on Ko-fi.

. Your contributions help me keep exploring, photographing, and writing!

Pastels, Piaggios, and Paradise: My Ultimate Procida Guide is Here!

 Andiamo! There is a certain magic in the Phlegraean Islands that often goes unnoticed, and Procida is my absolute favorite best-kept secret. In the latest volume of Andiamotrips: The Next Stop, I’m taking you on a deep dive into this 4-square-kilometer volcanic gem. It is absolutely fantasticaaa!

Procida isn't about high-octane luxury; it’s about a lifestyle blissfully detached from the hustle. From the pastel-colored houses of Marina Corricella to the dreamy scent of lemon groves, this issue is my hand-picked guide to the 2022 Italian Capital of Culture.

Inside this edition:

• My Curated Itineraries: Whether you have a half-day or a full day, I’ve mapped out the perfect route for you.

• Artisan Treasures: From the famous lemon scents to the unique "Prison Tailoring" social project.

• The Foodie’s Guide: I’ll show you where to find the best Lingua di Procida and that iconic lemon salad.

• Sun & Sand: My personal guide to the island’s stunning volcanic beaches.

• Practical Travel: How I navigate the "Carrugio" alleys and those iconic three-wheeled micro-taxis.

Ready to plan your island hop?

Check out the emag !

One Calendar, Seven Personas: Which Campania Is Yours?

 

If you’ve been following Andiamotrips: The Next Stop, you know that Campania isn’t just a spot on the map—it’s a puzzle waiting to be solved. Whether you’re racing the clock or chasing the perfect sunset, the way you view this region makes all the difference.

That’s why I built the What’s Going On in Campania Events Calendar. It’s not just a list of dates; it’s a curated roadmap tailored to your specific travel persona.

Here is how each of our seven personas can use the calendar to unlock their perfect spring day.

The Day-Trip Maximizer

The Vibe: "I’ll sleep when I’m back in Naples." You’re here to conquer. Every minute counts, and you want high-impact sightseeing.

• How to use the Calendar: Filter for All Regions. Look for events near transport hubs (like the VitignoItalia wine salon at the Maschio Angioino) that allow you to hop off a hydrofoil and walk straight into the experience.

The Smart Commuter

The Vibe: "Out of Office (but actually on my laptop)." You need high-speed Wi-Fi and even higher-quality espresso.

• How to use the Calendar: Look for Art & Culture events in central Naples, like the Emilio Isgrò show. These world-class museums are often surrounded by the "smart hubs" and historic cafes I recommend for a stress-free workday-meets-vacation.

The Authentic Soul Explorer

The Vibe: "Depth over distance." You want the 16th-century courtyard and the stories not printed in guides.

• How to use the Calendar: Dive into the Food & Wine (Red) labels for local Sagre. The Sagra della Salsiccia Rossa in Castelpoto is exactly the kind of deep-rooted local tradition you crave—far from the tourist crowds.

The Gourmet Seeker

The Vibe: "I travel with my stomach." Your itinerary is a menu. You want the "OG" flavors and the freshest catch.

• How to use the Calendar: This is your playground. Toggle the Red Labels to find the Festa del Carciofo di Paestum or the Festa del Pescato di Paranza. I’ve mapped out the flavors worth every single calorie.

The History Hunter

The Vibe: "Walking through time." You’re connecting the Roman past with the vibrant present.

• How to use the Calendar: Follow the Black Labels. From the archaeological myths at the MANN to the evening candlelight tours at the Reggia di Caserta, the calendar points you to where history literally comes to life.

The Social Butterfly

The Vibe: "The ultimate aesthetic." You’re on a quest for the perfect golden hour capture without the wait.

• How to use the Calendar: Look for the Nature & Outdoors (Green) labels. Experiences like Submerged Baiae (viewed from a glass-bottom boat) or the Royal Garden Tours provide those panoramic, water-level vistas that make a camera roll shine.

The Sun-Drenched Dreamer

The Vibe: "Dolce Far Niente." You crave pure Mediterranean relaxation and "sweet doing nothing."

• How to use the Calendar: Filter for Salerno or Napoli and look for events like the Cherry Festival or garden openings. These spots are where peace is paramount, and the calendar helps you find them before they get busy.

How to Find Your Groove

I update this calendar in real-time. To find your next stop, simply:

1. Head to the andiamotrips.it site.

2. Click the "What's Going On in Campania" header.

3. Filter by your Province or your Vibe (Art, Food, or Nature).

Whether you’re a Maximizer or a Dreamer, there’s a seat at the table—or a spot on the ferry—waiting for you.

Andiamo!

Beyond the Port: Discovering the Soul of Casamicciola Terme, Ischia

 

When travelers think of Ischia, they often picture the iconic Castello Aragonese or the bustling streets of Ischia Porto. But there is a quieter, more historic heartbeat to the island found in Casamicciola Terme.

In the latest volume of my travel series, The Next Stop | Volume 2, I’m taking you on a deep dive into this elegant port town—a place where thermal history meets modern Ischian life. Whether you have a full morning or just 45 minutes before your ferry departs, Casamicciola has a story to tell.

Why Casamicciola?

Often overlooked as just a transit point, Casamicciola Terme is actually one of the island's most storied locations. Known for its ancient thermal springs and resilient spirit, it offers a more relaxed, authentic pace. In this guide, we move past the ticket booths and into the charming Piazza Marina to find the real Ischia.

What’s Inside the New E-Mag?

I’ve curated this volume to be your ultimate companion for an island-hop. Here is a sneak peek of what you’ll find:

• Two Curated Itineraries: Designed for different paces, whether you want to explore the historic architecture or soak in the seaside atmosphere.

• The Shopping Gems: From hand-painted ceramics to volcanic-inspired beauty products, I’ve mapped out the shops you shouldn’t miss.

• A Culinary Deep Dive: We explore the two pillars of Ischian food—the Zingara (the island’s signature sandwich) and the Cornetto Ischitano.

• The 45-Minute Sprint: For those with a ferry to catch, I’ve included a "Quick-Bite Directory" of the best snacks within walking distance of the pier.

Exclusive SNAV Discount

To celebrate the launch of Volume 2, I’ve partnered with SNAV to help you get there! Use the code ANDIAMOTRIPS at SNAV.it for 10% OFF the "Two Islands in One Day" tour.

Note: This is limited to the first 10 travelers and must be booked by May 31, 2026.

Read the Full Guide Online

You can browse the complete e-magazine right now. Click the link below to open the interactive flip-book and start planning your Mediterranean escape:

👉 Read Next Stop | Volume 2: Ischia Edition here

Support the Journey ☕

Creating these guides is a labor of love! If you find these tips helpful and want to support my journey as I scout out the next hidden gems, you can now buy me a coffee on Ko-fi. Your support helps keep these deep dives coming!

Stay tuned for Volume 3, where we’ll be heading to the colorful island of Procida!

Andiamo to Fontanelle: Naples’ Most Mysterious Site Reopens This April

 

After nearly six years of restoration, the tuff-stone heart of Naples is beating again. On April 18th, the Cimitero delle Fontanelle (Fontanelle Cemetery) officially reopens its gates. While I haven't visited yet, I’ve long been fascinated by its haunting history and the unique folklore that makes it the soul of the city.

A City of Tuff and Bone

Located in the Rione Sanità district, this massive ossuary was carved into a Roman-era quarry. It became a burial site during the plague of 1656 and the cholera outbreaks of the 1830s. Eventually, it became the final home for the pezzentelli—the "pauper souls" of Naples.

The Cult of the "Anime Pezzentelle"

The Fontanelle is famous for the "cult of the skulls." In the 19th century, Neapolitans began "adopting" anonymous skulls (capuzzelle), cleaning them and placing them in wooden boxes. Devotees offered prayers and flowers in exchange for protection or guidance. Today, this tradition remains a powerful symbol of the Neapolitan relationship between the living and the dead.

Getting There: Metro & Transport

The cemetery is tucked away in the Sanità valley, but easily reachable via Metro:

• Materdei Station (Line 1): The best stop. It’s a 10–15 minute walk, mostly downhill.

• Museo (Line 1) / Cavour (Line 2): A 20-minute walk through the local markets.

How to Visit & Reserve Tickets

Access is now structured and booking is mandatory.

• Official Website: cimiterodellefontanelle.it

• Hours: Daily (except Wednesday), 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM.

• Tours: Choose between the official audio guide app or a guided tour with an expert.

• Languages: Available in both Italian and English.

A Personal Note

I’m visiting the Fontanelle later this month to see the restorations firsthand. There’s something moving about the silence of these caves—a place where the veil between worlds feels incredibly thin.

Stay tuned! I’ll post a detailed follow-up with photos and stories after my trip. If you’re in Naples this spring, don’t miss this hauntingly beautiful site.

For more hidden gems in Naples, follow along at Andiamotrips.

My E- Magazine is Out! Andiamotrips: The Next Stop

When I decided to create the series Andiamotrips:  The Next Stop, I knew that I wanted more than a blog or a few videos.  I wanted an e-magazine!  So that is why I am happy to announce that the first edition is online and it focuses on my 2 hour visit to Lacco Ameno in Ischia.  Check it out online here and let me know what you think.