Visit Ischia: The Hidden Gem of Italy
Ischia is a small, but highly populated, volcanic island that is either one hour from Naples if you take the ferry, or 40 minutes by hydrofoil. However, it is highly recommended to avoid the hydrofoil for a more enjoyable experience.
I do not want to draw an overly simplistic conclusion based on our choice of transportation, but the ferry offers a much calmer and picturesque introduction to Ischia. The hydrofoil experience is far from pleasant, akin to being on a boat on stilts that launches over the waves, which can be quite disconcerting.
The reality of the hydrofoil is underscored by the ominous sight of a reflective sunglasses-wearing attendant handing out blue plastic bags for motion sickness. I questioned if I would need one, and his response was a shrug that left me feeling unsure about my upcoming journey.
Fortunately, I did not succumb to seasickness, but many tourists around me appeared distressed while local commuters seemed unfazed. In contrast, arriving in Ischia is a magnificent reprieve that makes the trip worthwhile.
While geographically close to Capri and Sorrento, Ischia offers a markedly different vibe. Here, you are less likely to encounter high-profile celebrities and more likely to witness the authentic interactions of local Italians. The ambiance features elderly gentlemen quietly sweeping sand from their porches alongside animated debates among local women.
We found a charming beachside cottage for about £40 a night, offering stunning views of the water. As it’s the end of May, the weather is pleasantly warm, allowing us to enjoy the tranquility before the bustling summer crowds fully arrive.
Our interactions with the local residents suggest a community predominantly composed of retirees. Many homes seem to be weekend getaways filled with life during the warmer months. Throughout the day, you may witness elderly figures gazing out from their windows, indicating a blend of leisurely living and quiet introspection.
The days on Ischia take on a leisurely rhythm. Mornings begin with freshly brewed coffee in our cottage, followed by a morning spent sunbathing on the beach. Lunch often consists of a delicious €2 pizza, accompanied by a refreshing Peroni, also priced at €2. Dinner is plentiful and diverse, often with hidden costs, typical in many European seaside towns. Be prepared for unexpected expenses when dining out.
Fortunately, cooking at home with locally sourced ingredients allows us to enjoy wholesome meals and capture the essence of Ischia’s cuisine. The island offers a delightful array of culinary highlights, including golden olive oil, sun-ripened tomatoes, and fragrant garlic. Preparing meals at home not only brings satisfaction but also frees up our travel budget for exciting experiences such as renting a speedboat.
At the marina, we met a group of enthusiastic young men offering boat rentals for the day at an affordable price, requiring only a driver’s license and a small fee. Prior boating experience is unnecessary; if you can handle a bumper car, you can indeed drive a boat! It’s an exhilarating way to explore Ischia’s stunning coastline.
You can dock at Forio, a charming town just half an hour west of Ischia’s main port. Engaging in activities such as cave swimming or simply dropping anchor near seaside resorts for a leisurely ocean picnic is highly recommended. Embrace the freedom of the sea, which far outweighs the hydrofoil’s tumultuous ride.
In conclusion, the contrasts between the hydrofoil and renting a speedboat encapsulate the essence of Ischia. While one offers anxiety and uncertainty, the other embodies joy, relaxation, and the simple pleasures of life. Consequently, understanding your travel options enhances your experience on this beautiful Italian island. Will you choose the calmer ferry experience or the excitement of a speedboat? The choice is yours to make.
