We asked Olga to tell us why the programme in Sorrento was crucial for her to learn Italian.
First thing you do when you arrive back in Sorrento?
Go to Raki gelateria to get a Vanilla and Ginger gelato!
What advice would you give to a tourist?
Beyond the most popular activities (like daytripping to Capri, Pompei e Vesuvio and the amazing Amalfi Coast), I would suggest exploring some of the lesser-known treasures, like the Regina Giovanna baths.
If you had to be locked in a building overnight, which would it be?
I would choose the Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria, one of the hotels on the coast, which has a gorgeous view of the bay as well as a spa! It’s an inspiring place!
Best place for a romantic holiday in Sorrento?
The Minervetta! According to the TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice Awards for 2016, it was voted the Top Hotel for Romance in Italy.
What would you do if you were Mayor for the day?
Have a parade, like in the American tradition, to share this type of fun with the community of Sorrento.
Earliest Sorrento memory?
Christmas shopping on Corso Italia and admiring the ginormous Christmas tree in Tasso Square.
What are your favourite late-night hangouts?
In the summer, anywhere on Corso Italia is hopping with excitement. I tend to enjoy the Guaraccino Bar, which is down a little alley just off of Tasso Square, where there are always many locals.
Best meal you’ve had in Sorrento?
Is that a trick question? It’s all delicious, but my guilty pleasure is the Clooney burger and gourmet fries at Star Pub where I can chat with waiters and locals and practise my Italian.
If you could buy any building in Sorrento, which would it be?
Maybe Bar Syranuse, which is in the heart of Sorrento in Tasso Square and has a side looking over the passage down to Marina Piccola.
What is your favourite Sorrento discovery?
The Regina Giovanna baths – it’s a Roman ruin with a natural pool, which connects to the bay, and everytime I go, I’m speechless.
Best advice for other students?
Take advantage of your time in Sorrento. Go out and explore, meet the locals (they’re great), learn Italian, speak Italian and live like locals and have new experiences to remember for a lifetime!
by Olga, student in Sorrento
Andiamo? Ask me how.
