The streets were quiet at that hour.
As we left Positano, we saw the end of a lovely sunrise over the bay.
It was about a two-hour drive to the Napoli airport. We were mostly quiet, contemplating the end of an excellent excursion.
Our route was Naploli (12:15) to Munich (13:55 and depart 15:40) to Chicago (18:25). Lufthansa (LH) all the way. It was fun looking out the window and seeing other folks doing jobs we had done in our old airport days.
We had never flown LH before and it was pure pleasure. Plenty of leg room in coach for Mike's long legs, a great choice of movies, and the food was fabulous. We had real silverware instead of the plastic stuff, even in coach!
We flew over some beautiful territory--snowy Alps, green forests, towns snugged in valleys.
Once in Chicago, customs and baggage were handled fairly efficiently. The return van was waiting for us. Thank goodness our driver was not the same guy that brought us here. Chicago is not the easiest to maneuver, but that had been a scary drive even on the Michigan highway. This one was a bit better, but I still wasn't feeling totally safe.
The main thing is we arrived at the Kalamazoo Radisson Hotel with no mishaps. The others had to drive home from there, but we just walked out the back door and a block to our loft.
Once home we collapsed. Bella was soooo happy to see us and vice versa.
I know this trip series has taken a long time to complete. But honestly the facts and sights and thoughts about it were overwhelming each time I sat down to write. As you can see each day took five or six long entries to complete and a lot of research for accuracy. Honestly I write this blog for myself mostly. When our traveling days are over, I'm sure we will be living vicariously through these notes. If others enjoy it...wonderful.
As a wrap up, I think no matter where you go in Europe, you will enjoy your stay. As a die hard Italian-o-phile, Italy is very special to me. The entire country is an historical and architectural museum with delectable and delightful cuisine. We learned so much. You can never see it all or know it all.
Thank you to Chef John for leading us on a second fantastic trip. And to wife Stacey for keeping an eye on me when Mike was not around. A sweet (in many ways) couple.
John is now cheffing at Mino's Italian Restaurant in Winnetka, Illinois. We plan a trip there in June to savor a great Italian meal in his new digs. http://www.minositalian.com
Chef John's 2017 excursion to Italy was a trip around the island of Sicily. We hated to miss this one, but timing just wasn't right.
He continues leading Italy trips each year through JK Travels. These are small groups, so it is hard to get in. See info on FB: https://www.facebook.com/CHEF-JK-Travels-353135194866954/
Stay turned. We just got back from a week in Iceland.
I promise not to take so long to write this one up.
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If you have visited any of these places, we would love to hear your comments. Or send us recommendations of places we should not miss.