Guest Blogger: Michael Mammele
The Relais Blue is a four-star hotel on the coast of
Sorrento, with a breathtaking view of Capri, Ischia, and the Bay of Naples.
Last Sunday, I was lucky enough to dine there for an aperitivo- An aperitivo consisting of appetizers, drinks, and an out of this world
sunset.
We sat on a large terrace with rows of white rattan
arm-chairs with small tables in front of them. Our view was impeccable,
accentuated by an infinity effect because there were no railings in front of
us, just glass. We felt so close to the water, yet we could see far out beyond
Sorrento and towards the sun.
I was blown away immediately. I struggled for fifteen
minutes to take a half-decent panoramic picture, something I can never quite
seem to master, yet no matter how badly I botched them, the pictures were
stunning.
We each ordered an aperol spritz with oranges, and started
with some fried calamari and burger sliders. Next came two small pasta dishes-one
with zucchini and the other linguine with carbonara sauce. Upon learning that
carbonara sauce was just eggs, melted Parmesan cheese, and bits of bacon, I
became excited to try and make this at home, because even a simpleton like
myself should be able to manage to do so.
Watching the sunset is something that I don't do enough of,
and I’m convinced that on this night, we had to have had one of the best views
in all of the world, it was truly that amazing. The descending sun painted the
sky with an unreal peach color. Cruise ships and small sport boats all slowed
down to take in the view. To the hotel employees, I’m sure it was nothing new,
but to myself and the other guests, it was a sight that no picture or world-renowned
artist could quite capture.
The view, the
company, and the food were easily 5 out of 5 stars. Stevie Wonder played softly
in the background, allowing for a calm and tranquil vibe, as all the guests
looked out into the abyss. No matter where each of us came from, we were all in
awe of the view.
