Hi, I'm looking into attending an Italian Language school in Tropea. I'm not familiar with the area. I'm interested in any information about the school or area itself. I'm thinking about doing a 2 week to 3 week stay. I'm just wondering if it's a good base for a solo traveler. I traveled to southern italy last summer (Taormina) I'm wondering how to places may compare.

Maria NYC

Maria: I was looking at the same school. Would be very interested to know if you get feedback on this elsewhere. From what I understand the town itself is very beautiful.

Hello MariaNYC,

I spent 2 days in Tropea this past summer with my wife and it was blissful! I think it's one of the many jewels that Calabria has to offer. Tropea - is a charming seaside resort town that sits perched or shelved (barely hanging on) above the Tyrrhenian Sea, overlooking the crystal clear, aqua green waters. It literally cascades down from the top of the hill to a natural terrace, then there's a steep vertical fall to the sea... so beautifully. The old town is quaint and should be strolled, there are great ceramic and antique shops, palazzi and many places to dine. Piazza Ercole is the main square in this part of town. On the cliffs is the duomo (12th century), a Norman church with a gorgeous interior, make sure you see the 16th century Crocifisso Nero (Black Crucifix). Other churches to check out are: Chiesa di San Francesco, Chiesa di Santa Maria del Carmine, Chiesa di Jesus, and the Annunziata. If you’re at the beach (below the old town), stop in at Santa Maria dell’Isola (12th century) (this photo was taken from the promenade where the old town ends---300 feet above), this is a Benedictine monastery that you can get to after a nice little climb and on this small island, if you will, called St. Maria (connected by a short causeway). You’ll love, love the sandy beach and the water is warm...so make sure you take long breaks after your studies.

FYI...Market day is on Saturdays in Tropea.

Goodluck and I do hope you enjoy your studies

cheers,

michele

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Maria,
If you DO go to Tropea, note that it would be good to have a car. There are wonderful spots to drive to in Calabria which are not reachable easily by public transportation. Be sure to go to Pizzo, as there is a church on the beach there which has many saints carved out of the grottoes...it is truly a wonder. If you drive along the sea, you will find a sign which indicates the church, and people there will be able to direct you.
Tropea is one of the prettiest places in Calabria, but I would not want to go there in the summer-way too crowded. The Italians know a good thing when they see it, and so does everyone else. Definitely go off season, though most of the hotels are closed. There are 3 I think IN town though, and they are never crowded. I think the one where I stayed was the Hotel Luigi...nothing to write home about but not expensive, has a dining room also. I was one of 2 guests there. The little village is really lovely, and the people were really warm and friendly..great cheeses. Several restaurants open even in the off season.

Janice