Having Second Thoughts on LaSpezia - Need Some Input, Please.
 

As I understand it, LaSpezia is a naval port, and it doesn't get good press. This is my problem: Leaving JFK 6:00 p.m., arriving Rome 8:30 a.m. We are taking the train from Rome to LaSpezia, and will get there at 4:00 p.m. At this point, we will be very tired. I made a reservation at the Jolly Hotel for one night, then we are on to S. Margherita. Is this a poor way to start our vacation? Does anyone have a better suggestion?

APOLOGY - I thought I posted this on the Italy Board because I had already posted on the Europe Board. It ended up back on Europe. What did I do wrong? Sorry for double posting.

You didn't do anything wrong; indicating &quot;Italy&quot; simply sets a search term that helps people locate all posts having to do with Italy. There's only one board.<BR><BR>I think your strategy of not trying to make it all the way from Rome to SML on your first day is sound, but if you don't like the thought of staying in La Spezia, you could try for a coastal resort town like Viareggio or Forte dei Marmi, which are maybe half an hour or so south of La Spezia. Enjoy your trip.

La Spezia has had an Italian naval base for a long time but is not overrun with rowdy sailors. On the other hand it is not exactly a tourist destination. The Jolly Hotel chain is not known for any particular charm. Granted you will be tired from traveling but why not remain on the train for another 45 minutes or so and go directly to SML. That way you will not be lugging your suitcases any more than necessary. You will not be arriving too late in the day at SML.<BR><BR>Another thought is to fly directly from Rome to Genoa and then train to SML. Much shorter train ride.<BR><BR>Do try to sleep on the plane from JFK, even if just a couple of hours.

I think you're going to be absolutely exhausted if you do it this way. Instead of spending your first night at the Jolly in LaSpezia, why don't you stay one night in Rome? This would give you a chance to unwind, nap, see a few sights, before continuing on the next day to Santa Margherita. If this is unworkable for you,I'd second the recommendation for flying from Rome-Genoa, then taking the train to SM. Otherwise, I think you're going to be miserable.<BR><BR>Good luck whatever you decide!

La Spezia is a wonderful city and there is nothing to fear. Beautification efforts over the years have really helped improve the port/harbor area and there are lovely parts of the city. There are nice accommodations near the train station if that would be more convenient (I don't know where the Jolly is located). I consider La Spezia my 2nd home as it is the base for the Cinque Terre area and all the residents do their shopping there as it is the biggest city in the area. You will enjoy it - if you can, take a stroll down the main pedestrian boulevard, Corso di Cavour, with all the lovely lights, window shops and restaurants. It is very pleasant.