https://www.facebook.com/1513533315630705/

Lomè Galliano, Via Mezzocannone, Naples (2024)

14/11/2024

After yesterday's wild winds and rain, today gifted us the perfect autumn day for a panoramic tour of Napoli. My guests were thrilled to savor a delicious treat at Chalet Ciro, one of the city's oldest chalets.

And just when they thought they’d tasted it all, Napoli revealed another secret:
the "GRAFFETTO".
Imagine a classic graffa, fried to perfection but in the shape of a croissant. It's indulgence at its finest!
Sure, it may take four months of workout to burn it off, but for that first, blissful bite? Absolutely worth it!

12/11/2024

Long day ahead, but my guests are sprinkling it with charm:
“You’re doing a great job,”
“Your English is amazing,” and even a playful “You have a sexy voice 😉.”
Who knew compliments could work better than espresso? This day just got a whole lot lighter! 😉

10/11/2024

In this splendid shot I've caught my guests marveling at the stunning grandeur of the palace's staircase.
Framed by monumental columns and vaulted arches, at the far end, a smaller version of the Hercules Farnese statue from the famed Farnese collection stands in noble repose, almost as if presiding over the group’s admiring gazes.
The inlaid star pattern on the marble floor adds a dash of elegance beneath their feet, and the soft lighting seems to spotlight every detail.
A refined moment with a touch of mythic charm –the Royal Palace of Caserta at its finest!.

10/11/2024

After a season without a glimpse of Caserta’s royal grandeur, today I finally guided a group through the breathtaking Royal Palace of Caserta! Standing by the Fountain of Diana and Actaeon, I captured the majestic view along the walk to the palace. With grand staircases, opulent rooms, and stunning landscapes, Caserta dazzled us all with timeless elegance. An unforgettable day!

07/11/2024

Today’s tour was extra special with a fabulous family of seven
-siblings&partners-
all second-generation Americans with Neapolitan heritage.
For some, it was their first time back in the homeland, and you could feel their excitement!
They were pure joy, filling our break with laughter, stories, and heartfelt thanks.
They told about how, as kids, they weren’t taught Italian, so whenever the adults wanted to keep secrets, they’d switch to Italian.
Or how their father could pinpoint where any Italian was from just by their accent - a skill that amazed them all.
It was such a beautiful exchange, a little slice of their family’s history blending into the heart of Naples and I felt like an honorary member of the family.
This is what I love the most about what I do, helping people connect with their roots, one story at a time!
Because nothing like a dash of Neapolitan magic can make you feel right at home!

07/11/2024

Naples knows how to show off!
Bathed in golden light, the city’s rooftops shimmer like little treasures against the deep blue of the bay, while shadows slip in to add just the right touch of mystery. Vesuvius looms in the distance, wrapped in a soft, misty haze - an icon with quiet power. Above, clouds dance across the sky, layering the scene with elegance and a hint of drama.
A view as bold and unforgettable as Naples itself.

05/11/2024

Two tours down, I drag myself home dreaming of sweet, blissful rest… only to find a towering mountain of paperwork waiting to pounce! Hours of heroic battling later, I finally emerge victorious, ready to bask in some well-deserved relaxation. But then—betrayed by my own stomach! I realize I skipped lunch. So off I march to the kitchen, aiming to whip up a meal worthy of my exhaustion.

Or, you know, unless someone wants to come to my rescue and spare me the culinary acrobatics…

Who knew surviving could have such high-maintenance flair?

05/11/2024

November 5th, and Naples still has the docks buzzing with three cruise ships!
Plus a fourth that is about to dock!
My working season just refuses to say "arrivederci!"
But honestly, who could resist? With Naples flaunting her charm and the weather as sunny, no wonder everyone wants a slice of this dolce vita 😉
It’s like the city itself whispers,
"Come, fall in love!"

01/11/2024

Teatro Sannazaro, one of Naples’ most exquisite venues, is deeply rooted in the Neapolitan theater tradition.
Opened on December 26, 1847, by the will of Don Giulio Mastrilli, Duke of Marigliano, this theatre was designed by architect Fausto Niccolini. Its décor, praised for its white and gold, was celebrated by Neapolitan aristocracy and press alike as a “jolie bouquet" And thé theatre was nicknamed "bomboniera di Napoli".

Hosting legends like Eleonora Duse, Sarah Bernhardt, and playwrights Eduardo Scarpetta and Roberto Bracco, the Sannazaro gained a reputation as a "lucky" stage.
Eduardo Scarpetta’s Santarella achieved over a hundred performances in 1889, solidifying the theatre’s charm. In the 1930s, the then-emerging "Fratelli De Filippo" captivated audiences with their innovative shows, with Eduardo, Peppino, and Titina De Filippo performing original works like "Ditegli sempre di sì" and "Natale in Casa Cupiello".

After challenges during wartime, actor and impresario Nino Veglia and his wife, famed actress Luisa Conte, revitalized the Sannazaro in 1971, aiming to restore its role as a hub for traditional Neapolitan theater.

Since Conte's passing, her granddaughter Lara Sansone has led the Sannazaro, presenting classic and new works by Neapolitan playwrights.
Recognized by Italy’s Ministry of Cultural Heritage, the Sannazaro has expanded its reach, preserving Neapolitan tradition and introducing it to global audiences as a cultural tourism landmark.

01/11/2024

Teatro Sannazaro, one of Naples’ most exquisite venues, is deeply rooted in the Neapolitan theater tradition.
Opened on December 26, 1847, by the will of Don Giulio Mastrilli, Duke of Marigliano, this theatre was designed by architect Fausto Niccolini. Its décor, praised for its white and gold, was celebrated by Neapolitan aristocracy and press alike as a “jolie bouquet" And thé theatre was nicknamed "bomboniera di Napoli".

Hosting legends like Eleonora Duse, Sarah Bernhardt, and playwrights Eduardo Scarpetta and Roberto Bracco, the Sannazaro gained a reputation as a "lucky" stage.
Eduardo Scarpetta’s Santarella achieved over a hundred performances in 1889, solidifying the theatre’s charm. In the 1930s, the then-emerging "Fratelli De Filippo" captivated audiences with their innovative shows, with Eduardo, Peppino, and Titina De Filippo performing original works like "Ditegli sempre di sì" and "Natale in Casa Cupiello".

After challenges during wartime, actor and impresario Nino Veglia and his wife, famed actress Luisa Conte, revitalized the Sannazaro in 1971, aiming to restore its role as a hub for traditional Neapolitan theater.

Since Conte's passing, her granddaughter Lara Sansone has led the Sannazaro, presenting classic and new works by Neapolitan playwrights.
Recognized by Italy’s Ministry of Cultural Heritage, the Sannazaro has expanded its reach, preserving Neapolitan tradition and introducing it to global audiences as a cultural tourism landmark.

30/10/2024

Today, we had the pleasure of celebrating a milestone – a fabulous 70th birthday! Our star of the day may have tried to fly under the radar, but not on my watch!
I couldn’t let her big day go by unnoticed, especially in a setting as stunning as the Amalfi Coast.
She might have looked a bit surprised (or mildly embarrassed), but when I asked, she assured me she was truly touched by the thoughtful gesture.
Here’s to making every birthday, big or 'small,' one to remember!
#70

26/10/2024

Through the window, a scene straight out of a dream unfolds: moody clouds drifting over the sea, which shimmers as if flaunting a touch of silver.
One of my guests raises her smartphone, capturing the moment like a seasoned paparazzo of beauty.
Below, a hillside village lounges in warm, earthy tones, nestled between lush greens and the glowing coastline. It’s as if the landscape itself paused to strike a pose – a picture-perfect farewell from Sorrento as we journey back to the waiting arms of Napoli.

24/10/2024

Feast your eyes on the breathtaking silver statue of Archangel Raphael, crafted by the brothers Giuseppe and Gennaro del Giudice in 1797, based on the model by San Martino.
With his protective stance, Raphael guides Tobias, whose fish is no mere sidekick,
it’s a nod to the biblical story of healing. This Baroque masterpiece, blending sacred narrative with Neapolitan craftsmanship, shines in all its glory at the Museum of the Treasure of San Gennaro.
A heavenly dose of art and history, wouldn’t you agree?
And if you want to know more, call me!
Sending warm wishes on this special day dedicated to Saint Raphael!
A happy celebration to all who bear this glorious name—especially to my cousin who carries it with extra charm! 😘

21/10/2024

While guiding my only guest through the streets of Naples, we found ourselves at Piazza del Plebiscito, laughing and capturing fun moments.
As they lined up the perfect shot of the basilica through an archway, I couldn’t resist taking a picture of their smartphone in action.
It felt like a playful duet of photographers, each capturing the beauty of the city from our own perspectives.
We had such a blast together, blending sightseeing with spontaneous moments like this one!

19/10/2024

The recent deluge in Naples brings my mind to an iconic Neapolitan treasure:
Mario Talarico’s umbrella workshop,
nestled in downtown Naples since 1860. This historic artisan shop is a symbol of Neapolitan craftsmanship, where four generations have turned the making of umbrellas into an art form.
Stepping inside feels like entering a piece of history, with original details and a working atelier that transports you back in time.

But don’t let the rain fool you!
Talarico’s creations are in demand far beyond Naples. Despite London’s famed umbrella makers, both King Charles III and Prince William have chosen this Neapolitan maestro for their handmade umbrellas.
The Talarico brand has also served Pope Benedict, Pope Francis, Hollywood stars like Russell Crowe, and global VIPs.

With Mario Talarico Jr. at the helm, the family tradition flourishes. His artistry and innovation have brought international recognition, including the prestigious International Grand Prix of the Golden Lion of Venice in 2022, and the “Excellence in Proximity Shopping” award from SDA Bocconi and American Express in 2023.

In a city famed for its beauty and sun alike,
when a storm comes Talarico umbrellas stand as a testament to enduring craftsmanship and royal-worthy style.

17/10/2024

Today's tour brought us to the iconic Chalet Ciro, where my guests went full sugar mode: gelato in one hand, the most legendary graffa in Naples in the other!
Who needs moderation when the treats are this good? 😉😍
Even the haze hanging over the bay couldn’t hide the beauty of this place...
or the fact we’re all in a sugar coma now!

15/10/2024

Today's absurd:

Client: "I’ve heard there are solidified people in Pompeii. Can you tell me more?"

Me: "Ma’am, there are no solidified people in Pompeii. What we actually have are casts made from the impressions left by the victims. They were covered in ash, and archaeologists later filled those spaces to recreate their forms."

Client: "Oh, I heard some were even drinking coffee!"

Me: "Coffee? Ma’am, coffee didn’t exist back then. And even if it did, I highly doubt anyone would be sitting around sipping a latte while a volcano was erupting!"

(Featuring the stern, no-nonsense look of Caracalla, the perfect representation of my inner thoughts!)