Naples is not as crime-ridden as its rep

via Wikimedia Commons

When I visited Naples as a grad student, the professor would not let us get out of the bus except to go into the archeological museum. So this story suggesting that Naples is a charming, less crowded alternative to other Italian cities - and much safer than its reputation suggests - pleased me very much. Of course, you always have to be careful. When you are traveling (anywhere, not just to Europe) my general impression is that if someone approaches you at random and seems too friendly right off the bat, they are trying to scam you.

The detail in this story is valuable for anyone planning a trip to Italy. It is absolutely true that Herculaneum is more pleasant to visit than Pompeii; also that shopkeepers sometimes (mistakenly or not) tack a euro onto the bill. Also, there are often less expensive and just as nice alternatives to hotels (and hostels) in Italy; I will be bookmarking the website Kugel recommends, EuroCheapo.com, for future reference. Pin It