It would be interesting to
introduce our students to some of the "hidden" beauties of
Italy. All of them can name Rome, Florence, Milan, Turin as
important and cultural cities, but do they know some of the
small islands that are so beautiful to visit?
I chose the
Island of Ponza, which can be reached from Anzio (40 kilometers
south of Rome) by ferry, in only 3 hours.
Vittorio
Gassman was a great lover of this island and he wrote a
short travel article about it.
As Beautiful as Ever
"Ponza is
still a dream and the water is crystal clear. It's a real
village where life goes on all year round. Its shops, narrow
streets and bright colours make it a lively place even in the
winter.
I've been on
the island out of season too, and it still retains its enormous
appeal.
The island of
Ponza is within easy reach of Rome, and the ferries are always
on time!
Sometimes my
wife and I rent a fishing boat and spend the day relaxing in the
sun. In Ponza I get the chance to completely recharge my
batteries. I don't spend all my time in the sun: I like to
stroll along the jetty, get together with my friends or read a
book and gaze at the breathtaking sunsets you can only find
there.
In other
words, it's a really human island with nothing artificial about
it.
This is one of
the reasons it's a pleasure to go there.
Here is some more
information.
Ponza is the largest of the
Pontine Islands, an attractive archipelago off the Italian coast
between Rome and Naples.
The main attraction is its
landscape, shoreline and atmosphere.
Ponza's most popular beach is
Chiaia di Luna, a long crescent of sand under the high cliffs,
accessible by foot from the port. Towards the other end of the
island, near Le Forna, are the Piscine Naturali, lovely natural
pools ideal for bathing and enjoying the sunshine.
The students can do some
research on the lovely island.
They can find a map from Internet to mark the above mentioned
areas.
They can create a tourist guide, including photos, giving
the names of hotels, restaurants, places to visit.
They may have other ideas too. The teacher can guide them
according to their level in English. All in all, it's a nice way
to learn more about their country and all that it offers.
A Nice Thought
"The world
is a book and those who do not travel read only one page."
Saint Augustine