Trip Report
Stretching along the northwest coast of Italy, the Portofino Peninsula on the Ligurian Riviera is a beautiful, sun-drenched location where mountains meet the sea and historical cities with ancient art masterpieces. Tyler Burgess welcomed those at the February Potluck to explore this unique area on a walking tour via slides.
She began the program with scenes from Pisa, with its famous leaning bell tower, part of a complex of buildings that also include a baptistery and cathedral; all characterized by their stunningly beautiful white marble walls and inlays.
Then it’s across the steep cliffs next to the coastline near Santa Margherita (the home of Christopher Columbus). The trail is steep and challenging. A sturdy chain provides something to hold onto. Learning to stretch one’s body out over the edge of the cliff and the water below in order to obtain the needed momentum to pull yourself upward takes some practice.
Picturesque Portofino - home to many of the rich and famous - contains casinos, a yacht harbor, unique architecture and wonderful outdoor cafes for people-watching. Vegetables at street markets look tempting enough to squeeze, but the urge should be resisted, as the locals find this behavior insulting. After touring the ruins and shrines of the Palazzuolo region, Tyler took us to Florence, including the medieval section of the city - where some restaurants place wine and food out at night for the poor. One wonders how successful this practice would be in Eugene.
Tyler’s photos ranged from a replica of Michelangelo’s David to a couple of interesting modern men - one standing on a bridge spanning the Arno wearing a smart-looking blue blazer and bright red shoes and another dressed in a very tiny black Speedo and sandals. Her typical walking tour day begins around 8:30 a.m., with exploring and hiking until late afternoon. A siesta is followed by dinner and perhaps more walking in the evening.
Tyler concluded with a demonstration on how to pack for a walking tour (she takes only her fanny pack and backpack). Helpful hints included mixing “Off” with sunscreen, keeping your expensive camera in an Altoid can, and stuffing your hiking boots (as you carry them in your backpack) with toiletries and laundry soap. She advises investing in some well cushioned, anti-blister socks. Her backpack also contained light-weight rain pants and jacket, micro-fiber tank top, shirt and pants, a bikini for the Italian beaches (so you won’t look over-dressed), a sun/rain hat, one dress, Tevas for dress-up, and a cotton t-shirt, doubly used for sleeping in and a conversation starter, depending on the message on the shirt.
Tyler has tours planned for 2005 in Washington, D.C., New York City, England and Ireland. Check her web site for further information: <a href="http://www.walk-with-me.com/index.html">http://www.walk-with-me.com/index.html</a> - LaRee Beckle.
