PACENTRO
Question
What to do Pacentro?
Answer
Climb to the top of the medieval castle a few steps over from our family house. The views are worth the trip. Have an Italian breakfast at a local cafe. Order a cappuccino or espresso and a croissant and enjoy the clean mountain air as you start your day like an Italian. Cigarette optional. Go for daily walks and don't forget to greet everyone with a "Buongiorno" in the morning and during the day and a "Buonasera" in the evening. Go to a cafe/bar to grab a Peroni beer or Aperol Spritz and hang out with the local Pacentrani. Free snacks are often included. Have gelato. Every day. If you're brave enough, zipline across the valley for a unique view of the town while your legs dangle. Try the local cuisine including arrosticini - an appetizer of little, roasted, juicy, smokey bites of lamb finished with salt on a skewer. Other local specialties include Montepulciano (wine), pecorino cheese, spaghetti alla chitarra, and more.
Question
What's in Sulmona?
Answer
Do yourself a favor and try the porchetta (a juicy pork sandwich on Italian bread). It will be a highlight of your trip. They set up at the mercato on Wednesdays and Saturdays until early afternoon. Explore the mercato (flea market) on Wednesday mornings and Saturday mornings. Visit Confetti Pelino (the factory where they produce the best candy coated almonds - traditionally included in Italian and Italian-American wedding favors called "bomboniere").
Question
What else should I see in Italy?
Answer
Sorrento (just south of Naples on the western coast of Italy) offers some of the most beautiful coastal views in the world. Have yourself an unforgettable dinner right along the water. Limoncello is a must. Capri (just a short ferry ride from Sorrento) offers picturesque views fit for backdrops in designer magazines. Rome - although crowded, you won't regret exploring Rome. The history is rich and the city is lively. Vatican City is a destination though be sure to dedicate a full morning, afternoon, or even a day to account for the line and the time to explore within the city walls. Florence is a must for art, history, and architecture lovers. Pescara or Vasto beaches on the eastern coast - enjoy fresh gourmet seafood with delicious chilled white wine.