As a first time tourist, I didn’t know what to expect outside of the United States. I lived in DC at my life and had a vague idea of tourism and traveling. For years, my idea of traveling by Washington Street to Maine Street in DC When I got the chance to study abroad in Sorrento, I was ecstatic and blissfully unaware of the reality of traveling abroad. When I finally landed in Naples, I quickly realized the language barrier would be the least of my problems. I had been warned of culture shock or possible theft. But no one had prepared me for the idea that I could read the signs that pointed towards the exit. Luckily, I found english companions who were just as lost to me and we were able to wander to the correct exit in no time.
My jet lag caught up to me on the bus and I missed the most breathtaking views along the Amalfi Coast. By the time I set up my apartment with four roommates I was awake and ready for exploration. We wandered down Corso Italia, the main road in Sorrento, and much of my surprise, most of the shops were catered to the tourism industry. Between Limoncello stores, ice cream, and pasta and pizza restaurants, almost every other store caters to the European tourism industry. It was that moment when I realized that Sorrento’s main source of economy came from the tourism industry.
In the summer hundreds of cruise liners fill the marinas and let out thousands of curious travelers.These travelers are eager to buy local goodies before they are off to their next stop. Coming from another country, I also enjoyed ice cream and pizza on my first night in Italy and discovered it was better than its reputation. While many people enjoy these attractions, it seems the town of Sorrento has changed itself extensively to cater to the tourist desires. I was shocked to discover that there seemed to be little to the city of Sorrento after the tourist attractions were taken away. I still love the gelato and the pizza, and hope that Sorrento can find it’s own identity that may not revolve around tourism.
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