Lipari and Aeolian Islandsh

hydrofoil (inter island transport) at full tilt

From Malta we ferried back over and bussed all the way up to the North Eastern corner of Sicily. From there a short boat ride over to the most developed of the Aeolian islands, Lipari. Not a lot bigger than Rottnest this cool island has a population of 11k thought its rolling green hills. Not far down the main street was our lodging at Diana Brown's (Lovely Saffa) B&B and we settled in before heading out to her recommendation for dinner.

main street through Lipari

mmmmm

my fav childhood entertainment

Some really nice, yet very rich food. The next day we hired a scooter and did a full lap of the island. We packed a continental roll and stopped for that overlooking the surrounding islands and for a coffee in a quite little bar where there was heated game of Italian cards beginning. It was great to get a good dose of fresh air through us on the scooter and there was little traffic so it was a good place to get back on the road.

trusty number 55 at our lunch stop

Definitely one of my favourite days yet on the trip. The next day we headed to the neighbouring island of Vulcano. Again, cos we enjoyed it so much we grabbed a scooter and explored the island including various look outs and a climb up to a dormant crater. The smell and sulphur steam would suggest not so dormant. Early the next morning Rhi's kidney pain went from bad to worse to we had a different morning, checking her into the local hospital. We were pleasantly surprised by how good the speed and quality of care was.

Rhi enjoying her free accom

 The doctor spoke great English and whisked Rhi up to his ward within no time. Over the next four days I spent my time visiting Rhi and watching the opening weekend of AFL so I couldn't complain. Very relaxing. Rhi's Italian improved during her stay as she made friends and foe with the hospital staff that were on the whole great. She checked out of there and we jumped on a ferry that night up to Naples. I was the big winner in Lipari. MAH

amphitheatre overlooking Lipari's coast

my walk to the hospital - postcard

by South Italy