Naples, Capri and Sorrento behind us now as we have just arrived in Siena. We took the local train to Sorrento and then the ferry to Capri at days end we then caught the ferry back to Naples. The photos can best describe the beauty of Capri and Sorrento. Naples is chaotic but has a charm all of its own. Naples was quite an experience which all have survived.

It was with great sadness thta we said our farewells having been treated like kings and queens by our host families. What wonderful hospitality and kindness from the school and our host families. The experience will truly never be forgotten by all of us. We still had one more excursion courtesy of our sister school which was to Naples and Pompei before saying goodbye for a final time. Pompei was exceptional and Naples with all its choas has a buzz all of its own. Great food and amazing scenery. The bay of Naples, Vesuvius, and of course the islands of Capri and Ischia all provide a dramatic backdrop to the city.

Today is our second last day at our sister school the welcome and hospitality has been fantastic. We have all experienced so much while staying with our host families. We have much in common but there are many differences between our Australian lifestyle compared with the Italian way of life. Last night a farewell party was held at one of the host parents beachside hotel. What a fantastic reception. The Mayor of Vasto even turned up. The event underlined the strenghth of our sister school relationship and also our sister/ state relationship.

Students are now half way through their visit to Liceo Mattioli. They have experinced a great deal and are enjoying spending time with their host families. They have enjoyed studying Italian, learning some traditional dances, and of course experienced the wonderful food, and hospitality.

We have arrived at our Sister School in Vasto, Liceo Scientifico Statele "R.Mattioli".
There was a warm welcome at the train station and we are all settled with our host families. They are very welcoming and are enjoying the Italian lifestyle - coffee, pizza and pasta.

Last day in Roma and on our way to Vasto to meet our host families. The Vatican visit this morning was certainly worth the wait in a very very long queue. We are all very sad to leave tomorrow but have definitely been guaranteed to visit again as coins were tossed into the Fontana di Trevi.

A great day was had by all discovering Roma's ancient history and architecture. This is a place that could keep you here for days. Today we scratched the surface of what must be one of the most fascinating cities in the world has to offer. The Colleseo, The Fontana de Trevi, The Spanish Steps and St Peters Square to name a few. Tomorrow the Vatican. It rained today and remained very humid making getting around Roma a bit tricky but we managed not to get too lost and covered most of the ground we thought we would.