Naples via Vladivstok - Magic

Castel Sant'Elmo overlooking the Bay of Naples. Rain or shine this crew is a bright spot.

Anyone who knows me, is aware that Vladivostok, Russia is the center of my core friendship universe. Recently I was reminded how much Russia, my time there, friendships formed there, who I was there, means to me.

So, when Sasha, who I met in Vladivostok in 1997 told me that she and Glen, who I met in Vladivostok in 1996, were going to be in Naples with Antia, their daughter who now goes to university in Australia – yes, this does sound the opening to a joke. Which then requires me to add that Sasha and Glen now live in Moldova, yes, that Sasha and Glen who have featured often here on FoodMood blog. In short, I bought a train ticket. Seven hours by train each way, with total joy.

A lot can be shared in 36 hours. Especially with people who live fully the idea that life is precious. No grass grows under their feet and being in their flow is a gift, even in the pouring rain.

As with my post Gratefully greeting 2026 in Venice, this is mainly a photo journal with words of gratitude and joy along the way. With so much social media competing for attention these days, FoodMood is evolving into a dynamic memory bank to share and record the magic of life. I feel like every time I reflect and compose thoughts and images; I focus my energy into what has meaning for me in life. Every experience shared is a step into the flow of gratitude and abundance that is life, inviting us all to live our gifts.

Underground Naples lent itself to us in the rain, a taste of the endless subterranean tunnels. Before and after Neopolitan street food and art.

Early, rainy, morning visit to the harbor and a visible Vesuvius we struck several poses to record the moment.

Exploring Naples in the rain in my new 'raspberry beret' (a gift from Sasha). We took in the sights....

...with a little help from Roberta who led us on a walking tour, "Street art of the Spanish Quarter", we glimpsed some of the rich diversity of Naples.

From the submarine aura of the Toledo metro we made our way to the Castel Sant'Elmo for magnificent views of the bay and the city, even in the rain. Endless thanks to Sasha's relentless photo taking, her gift to us and all.

Thanks to our friend Pasquale we had a fabulous meal at Antonio & Antonio on the seaside. Armando waited on us as if we were long lost friends and every taste was a delight, fresh and satisfying. The magic continued on our walk home along the harbor where the moon came out in full glory to herald the end of the rain.

Inspired by the clear skies Sasha literally climbed the extra mile to get these enchanting photos of Naples at night. As if we needed further evidence of the charmed lives we live.

In March Sasha has a ‘round’ birthday, eager for the adventure that will be. Meanwhile, sharing thoughts here keep the magic flowing. Comment and share adventures and friendships that inspire you to be the best version of you.