My first experience of being a solo, intrepid traveller involved meeting John's bestman Ray at Naples airport and getting a lift from him in his fancy rental Merc to Sorrento - so this backpacking thing isn't so hard after all. I enjoyed strolling around touristy Sorrento and my day at Pompeii was great. I've always wanted to go (partly because I was born on the anniversary of the eruption of Vesuvius) and it didn't disappoint. I discovered the joys of travelling on my own as I was able to spend as long as I wanted (all day) walking around the ruins.
After a boat ride along the Amalfi coast, I got the train to Maratea. When I arrived I asked someone for directions to the hotel, and she gave me a lift to the door.
The days before the wedding were great - nice to meet up with everyone, including Sinead and Gavin, some nice big group meals, plenty of swimming and a trek up to the Christ the Redeemer statue with Michele (our star Italian guide for the week) and Jacinta.
The wedding itself was perfect - John seemed happy and calm,
Lisa looked lovely, nice small church and idyllic outdoor reception and dinner. The prosecco was 
flowing (which led to slight regrets the following morning) and my dancing feet were kept busy.
Next day a quick walking tour of Naples with John B and Ailin, before flying back for one last night in Dublin.
A perfect start to my travels.
