We are going to Italy in August and would like to stay by the sea. The Amalfi coast is so crowded but has so man interesting things near by. Someone suggested Puglia, but I don't know anything about the area other than it is where the Italians vacation not Americans. Already sounded interesting. Anyone have any info?

All I can tell you is that we spent a week or more in Puglia, traveling around last August -- but not concentrating on the coast -- not important to us. We did see the biggest traffic jams I have ever seen in Europe the first weekend of the "Italian" vacation. Miles and miles of cars were backed up filled with Italians heading to the beach for vacation. And one day we spent hours and hours driving around the very southern tips of Italy, but it was the most crowded beach scene I've ever seen, choked with traffic. So if you are thinking it is a way to enjoy the beach without the crowds, forget that idea.

On the other hand we had a wonderful time in the towns and cities, which were surprisingly quiet. We also spent several days in the fascinating city of Lecce, but most restaurants were closed for vacation.

There are a lot of interesting things to see and do in Puglia but the coast will be crowded in August, not only with Italians but Germans and Scandanavians favor it as a vacation destination. But Lecce, Bari, Ostuni and Alberobelo are all great places to visit and further north is the Norman castle at Andria, the battlefield of Canae and the gorgeous coastline of Gargano which to me is as lovely as the Amalfi. That area might not be so crowded but don't count on it. From there you can visit Padre Pio's church, hospital and burial site in San Giovanni Rotundo and the shrine at Monte San Angelo. The town of Vieste is full of wonderful seafood restaurants and it's a short boat trip to the Tremiti Islands.

Hot and crowded in both places.

good advice from joeytheroo. MUCH better public transportation on the Amalfi Coast and Ravello is a dream.

Thanks everyone. We decided to go to the Amalfi coast. We found what seems to be the last villa available. t is in Praiano. We will have a car and my Italian friend will be driving. Now I will just have to plan another trip to Italy so we can stay in a Trulli and explore heal to toe.
Laura