V E S U V I U S   2 0 0 6

Bikinis, trunks, sun lotion, and towels all at the ready, we were setting off to Italy. With an early start and a delayed flight, we couldn’t wait to get in the air. We had a nice gentle flight and  soon landed in Naples. After a short coach journey we arrived at our hotel in Sorrento.   As soon as we were unpacked we were off to one of the private beaches, which was almost directly beneath the hotel. It was a nice first day

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On Thursday we visited the ancient city of Pompeii, and we were able to realise the havoc caused by one of Mount Vesuvius’ eruptions.  Then on Friday we had an excursion to Vesuvius itself in all its glory. We climbed as high as we could and witnessed some amazing views; we were able to appreciate the immense size of this volcano. After lunch, our coach driver took us to a ‘mystery hotspot’, which proved to be a cameo museum.  As the weather picked up we made our way to  Solfatara.  When we arrived, Mr O’Brien claimed he couldn’t smell the strong waft of sulphur but said he smelt toothpaste instead!

The next day, we visited Herculaneum, a city that was engulfed in one of Mount Vesuvius’ pyroclastic flows.  It was preserved better than Pompeii as it was covered in a thick layer of high-density hot and dry rock fragments, which settled much like cement.  We didn’t need a tour guide, as we had Mr Tanner’s interesting and enthusiastic commentary throughout.

Sunday came and we had a full day trip along the gorgeous Amalfi Coast. We stopped to see striking scenery and a few shops. This was more a relaxing day: we were driven around in the coach with beautiful views as far as the eye could see.

Monday was another day trip. We took a ferry and visited the stunning Isle of Capri. We all went shopping, as Capri is famous for its designer shops.  Mrs Gedney, armed with Mr Gedney’s credit card, embarked on her own tour of all the exclusive outlets.  After a shuttle bus ride, we went up to the top of Capri on single  chairlifts. Once we reached the top, most of us were speechless. I saw some of the most stunning sights I have ever seen.  It was almost impossible to tell where the sea ended and  the sky started. It was a peaceful haven.  

On Tuesday we went to Sorrento. This was our chance to get our last bits of shopping and look round the pleasant town. It was quite a relaxing day. If you were smart you started packing that night, but  Micaela, Charlotte and I did not do so, which meant that we had a frantic rush in the morning before we set off for the airport.

All the students agreed it was one of the best trips the School has run.  We are very thankful to the teachers for taking us and to Mrs Gedney for organising it.

Jordan Wathen.