Nettuno, Italy

2007-11-25T16:05:00.001-05:00

Hi Jo,

Our hearts will never be far from Nettuno, a place we will always want to go back to, we had a fantastic time in Italy and also an emotional one seeing all the things my late father did, hope to return in the not to distant future.

Thank you for this opportunity to see a most beautiful part of the world,

Thank you
W. Sinnott.

2007-11-25T16:04:00.000-05:00

Dear Jo,

I hope you remember us - we stayed at your apartment last year and had a fabulous time - absolutely loved it - our best holiday ever.

Please can you let us know if/when the apartment is still available - we are hoping to stay in September - can't confirm the dates exactly until next week. It would be great if you could let us know!

We have such fond memories of your place and Nettuno - I'm afraid we got a bit carried away and imagined ourselves back there, buying fab seafood to cook and sitting at the bar around the corner for our pre dinner drink, etc

Kind Regards,
Clare and Mark

2007-11-25T16:00:00.002-05:00

Dear Jo,

We got back from Italy late last Saturday night - and I had a concert at lunchtime Sunday(!) but wanted to contact you as soon as we could to thank you for letting us stay in your flat in Nettuno. It is a truly wonderful place and we were not expecting such a fantastic location with the sea on one side and all the activities of the borgo on the other.

Both sides were busy most of the time we were there, and I could recount many stories (which I shall no doubt dine out on over the winter) of the idiosyncrasies of Italy from the family weddings with the priest having to act as traffic cop to get one out and one in quick succession to the outstanding displays of bella figura on the beach and promenade.

The thing we loved most about Nettuno was that it is absolutely Italian. We barely heard a word of English the whole time we were there and felt that we were seeing the country for real rather than a tourist version. It also makes one try to speak Italian, though once I offered my apologies (in Italian) the man at the deli counter at PAM rather proudly said we speak English here (much to the surprise of his colleagues, I think, who clearly didn’t).

The delightful lady in the little shop in the next piazza (Lena) was very patient and I became a regular customer for bread and olives and Nettuno wine. She would serve me ahead of other customers, and once, when I went back for a pinch of pepper, in reply to my ‘quanto costo’ gave it to me saying ‘niente, signor’, and shooed me away.

Bridie and Charlotte spent many hours on the beach and in the sea, and Bridie was thrilled to be in a place where she could actually wave to me on the balcony while she was in the waves. No problems paying for beach space; they ignored us probably because C and B stayed in the sea most of the time and swam. Some Italian people seem curiously to avoid going in above their knees though I admit it is difficult to use a mobile phone, smoke and swim at he same time and this must result in some hard choices!

Bridie made friends with a little girl of her own age (9) on holiday from Milan, and she and Desiree have promised to write to each other (as will she and Silvia, Teresa’s daughter but more of that in a moment). Of course we spent a lot of time in Rome and the train service is very good except for when it quite literally comes off the rails – which it did once to the train ahead of ours. This didn’t matter because we were only at Padiglione and so our train returned to Nettuno.

We saw all the sights of Rome – Coliseum, Vatican, Piazza Spagna etc, and also went to the Trastevere and the Forum.

Even though it was hot we walked most places and by the end felt that we could find our way around central Rome quite well. Bridie discovered the cat sanctuary at Torre Argentina and went back with presents for the cats, spending a full afternoon playing and brushing various friendly Roman moggies while I went to the Trajan Markets.

We also took the ferry to Ponza for the day and discovered more beautiful beaches and bath-water warm sea.

Teresa and Armando picked us up at the station the evening we arrived and escorted us to the flat. We had to negotiate our way round the stalls in the piazza, but it was a wonderful introduction to Nettuno to see the local artisan’s products even though the religious picture man (I swear) never sold one thing the whole time we were there unlike the honey man who people busily buzzed around well, like bees.

Teresa also brought Silvia round the night before we left and they and Bridie went out for gelato and bubble-gum! Teresa came back the next day intent on having Bride and Silvia photographed together, but couldn’t find a photographer available (hardly a surprise on a Saturday morning). I took some nice photos of the two girls on my digital camera which perhaps you can pass on to Teresa if I email them to you. Teresa whisked Bridie and Charlotte off on a whistle-stop tour of her family, including breakfast at her brother-in-law’s gas station, and then took us to the station. Amazing!

We left the place pretty clean and tidy I think, but anyway left Teresa 75 euros (and nearly all of a bottle of grappa) which I hope will be OK. She is an absolutely delightful and funny person.

My only very small comment is that it was very hot while we were there and the local teenagers do have a tendency to noisily hang-out on the marina below until 3am. The odd fan would have allowed us to increase ventilation and I was tempted to buy one. But this is a small quibble at a place which is little short of a paradise. I was going to dare suggest that you rather undersell it by not pointing out the manifest delights rather more strongly and perhaps putting up slicker photos on the web-site, but perhaps you prefer a low-key approach. I certainly wouldn’t want it to be any different and would recommend it to people who want a real feel for Italy and to experience the country and its people without the intrusion of international tourism.

So once again, so many thanks for a wonderful holiday and we hope we can go back again very soon.

With all best wishes,
Stephen, Charlotte and Bridie

2007-11-25T16:00:00.001-05:00

Dear Jo,

We just loved Nettuno and your wonderful apartment. I could have sat on the balcony for ever watching the boats ,fisherman, passing people what an amazing view. The apartment is so beautiful and well appointed with lots of lovely extras.

I loved the cups and saucers in fact all the dishes were pretty.

M. Kerr

2007-11-25T15:58:00.000-05:00

Hello Jo,

Christina and I are just about catching our breath after an exhilarating experience it was only fabulous. The people in Nettuno very responsive in every way.

Most of your information was factual and we loved the apartment old and full of love, history, music plus my favorite - the multi-coloured fish painting. I personally found a lot of meaning from it. Sometimes they spoke to me and I enquired of the whereabouts of the small fish whilst

I listened to Judy Collins, my wife said the small fish had been devoured as the way of society generally. This all took place at breakfast every morning and gave us both a great start to the day so you may gather sightseeing went out the window.

Jo, I hope you don’t take offence of my name for the picture.

Well the condition of the apt was pretty good plenty of space plus utensils and the views megga.

If there to be any improvements they would be very minor and I would suggest to you to retain it in its present form, no telly no phone and lovely silent cork floor. The doors and stairs are part of the antiquity of the area and your apt should be nurtured and encouraged for posterity, so you can see we loved it immensely.

My daughter Sylvia came down from Rome for a few days and was really impressed with the whole scene.

All the best
George&Christina

2007-11-25T15:57:00.000-05:00

Dear Jo,

We had the most wonderful holiday in Nettuno.

It is truly lovely and everything we thought it would and much more. The view from the balcony looking out at the boats coming and going is fabulous. On Saturday and Sunday the 26th and 27th June there was a firework display. We had a wonderful view of the fireworks from the balcony.

We actually left Nettuno one day early and spend the last night in Rome and then went sightseeing on the Tuesday.I telephone Theresa to tell her we were leaving and I think she said she would call to the apartment on the Monday 5th July at 4.30. She did not call and we had to rush to catch our train to Rome. I left a note for her explaining this and also the tip and Euro 5 for 2 glasses which we broke by accident. We had to leave the keys in the apartment. I hope she has another set. As we did not have a cell phone to call her I hope everything is ok.

The apartment is ideal and we think the rent is very reasonable.The only thing I can think of suggesting is that you put a note on your web site about hiring sun beds and umbrellas on the beach.As we don’t speak any Italian we think they can be hired by the week. We are not sure.

There is a lovely beach bar serving lunches on the left side of the beach. The food is the best we have had on the holiday. Antonio served us and he can speak some English and he recommended dishes every day. We started out just having fruit for lunch but we very soon had a lovely pasta dish each day.We took the train to Rome about four times and saw lots of sights.

We also took the 64 bus to the Vatican as recommended on your web site.We will certainly be returning the Nettuno.I am sorry I just remembered we left some fruit in the fridge. I am sure Theresa can dispose of it. I meant to clear the fridge out but in the last minute rush forgot.

If you plan a visit to Dublin we would love to see you and your family.

Regards
Eileen and Sean

2007-11-25T15:56:00.000-05:00

Dear Jo,

We had a fantastic holiday in Nettuno. I think your info pack doesn't do the place justice!!

The view from the apartment is spectacular. Every night we walked round the harbour looking at the lovely yachts. We were quite sad to leave the view and pace of life. The beaches are lovely, the Italians very friendly - I met an Italian lady on the beach who is coming to Britain in September on a course, so she is going to get in touch and hopefully come and see us.

There is an excellent selection of shops and eating places. We found it very child friendly and our kids loved the place - they didn't want to come home.

Being only 1 hour on the train from Rome was good and we spent 3 days in Rome doing the sites.Please thank Teresa again for getting us at the airport, this was a great help. We didn't see her before we left unfortunately, but I hope she got the money and the gifts from Scotland that we left her.

Thank you again for your hospitality and we would definitely like to return again in the future - in fact while we were there we had a look at some Real Estate windows to see how much it would be to buy an apartment in Nettuno!!! - we liked it that much.

Regards,
F. Anderson

2007-11-25T15:55:00.000-05:00

Sent: Monday, July 23, 2007

Dear Jo,

The apartment in Nettuno was fantastic it was exactly what we were looking for. Teresa was very welcoming on our arrival and the apartment was spotless. We had the best vacation we have ever had in this idyllic part of the world. The work that was being carried out in the harbour did not bother us at all as we generally headed out around 0830am and did not return until the early evening.

We would both like to thank you for the use of the apartment and cant wait to return some day soon!!

Many Thanks
Craig & Catherine

2007-11-25T15:54:00.000-05:00

Hello Jo - thank you for checking in!

Yes, everything is working out wonderfully! Teresa is a very sweet woman who was punctual in meeting with us and was thorough in walking us though the details of the apartment. Everything was in perfect working order and the folks here before us even left a chilled bottle of wine in the fridge - I knew this was a good start ;)

You are correct about the 24/7 party - I was surprised but flock of youth trolling the Borgo at night. Needless to say, my 14 and 20 year old niece and nephew respond to the call of the wild each Friday through Sunday.

Your place is definitely a gem.

Take care for now,
Mark, Vicki, Morgan and Claire.

Availability

2007-11-25T15:47:00.000-05:00

To check availability, please follow this link
http://www.dateblocker.com/AvailabilityCalendar?PropertyId=3627

Objects and paintings

2007-11-25T13:51:00.000-05:00

The American Cemetary

2007-11-25T12:52:00.000-05:00

http://www.abmc.gov/cemeteries/cemeteries/sr.php

WWII: Gamble at Nettuno

2007-11-25T12:41:00.000-05:00

From the beginning there was no doubt that the Allies' beachhead thrust at Nettuno was full of hazard. An amphibious landing on the flank of a stubborn, able foe was bound to be. But this week the risk looked bigger than it ever had, since first the troops waded ashore on the morning of Jan. 22.

The reason for the hazard was easy to see. The beachhead attack was only a part of a tactical concept which also included the forcing of other events. Because of the quick perception of the German command, and the good show its troops were putting on, the other events had failed to happen. Result: a temporary stalemate, still fraught with possibilities of defeat but still promising an Allied victory.

Low Ground, High Ground. This week the beachhead thundered in one of the toughest battles U.S. troops and their British allies have yet fought. They were still on the ground they had taken in the first few days, a low plain criss-crossed with creeks and drainage ditches where front-line infantrymen had to take cover in waist-deep water from German fire.

Jerry held the high ground inland from the coastal plain. If he had not been there in force when the invaders landed, he had quickly and cleverly redisposed himself. Now, looking down on the restricted area (eight miles deep, 14 miles long) where the Allies had landed six divisions plus armored force, he hammered the invaders.

The Stone Wall. The invaders had not stood idle. But if the concept of their commanders, ranging down from Sir Henry Maitland ("Jumbo") Wilson and Sir Harold R. L. G. Alexander, had called for a quick penetration of German rear areas from Nettuno, then they had failed.

Their first widening of position had gone along in fine style. But by the end of the first ten days they had been stopped by stout German defenses. Last week the Germans reported pinching off a few outfits that struck too deeply. In front of the Allies was a stout stone wall of enemy fire power.

The invaders punched ahead doggedly and profanely. But while the minds of combat soldiers were on the task ahead, their officers' thoughts were on the south. If the Nettuno beachhead was ever to collect the reward of daring, tactical plan, things had to be changed on the Gustav Line, and changed quickly.

The Linchpin. The key to Nettuno was not in the high ground beyond the beachhead. It was down to the southeast, at Cassino, where he was also on high ground, and showing no disposition to give it up.

Cassino, linchpin of the Gustav Line, had to fall before the Nettuno attackers could move. Held long enough, it might even enable the Germans, rushing down fresh troops from north Italy and pulling seasoned outfits out of the Gustav Line, to force abandonment of the beachhead.
Once Cassino fell, the Gustav Line would have to fold. With sounder timing, that should have happened in the first week of the Nettuno landing. But somehow, almost encircled, Cassino held. Result: when the beachhead soldiers pushed forward they were driving against no rear area disorganized and road-clogged with retreat. They were banging their heads against a well-organized, coolly conducted, unfettered line of resistance.

Sixty miles to the south their comrades pushed desperately to smash one of the great German defenses of the Mediterranean campaign. The Germans, whom they had thought they saw folding up two weeks ago, had stiffened. The threat to Jerry's flank and rear had failed to rattle him; he was hanging on harder than ever.

On the beachhead at Nettuno, men cursed, fought, hoped and died.

Inventory

2007-11-25T11:54:00.000-05:00

Linens:

q 5 extra large colored bath towels
q 3 large white bath towels
q 4 white medium towels
q 4 white hand towels
q 2 white face clothes
q 4 large old towels (for beach)
q 2 bath mats (colored)

q 7 white flat sheets
q 7 white fitted sheets
q 2 sets twin sheets(peach)
q 9 white pillow cases
q 7 colored pillow cases
q 1 set double sheet (green stripes)

q 6 woolen blankets
q 1 cotton blanket
q 1 small down cover
q 1 plad
q 7 bedroom pillows
q 7 small house cushions
q 2 white wool cushions

q mattress covers: 2 double + 1 single (one is plastic)
q 1 double bed spread:
q 1 comforter bed spread
q 6 small rugs
q 1 Guatemalan woven cloth (on bureau)
q 1 Abruzzi bedspread

Bedroom furnishings:

q Halogen desk-lamp
q night lamp + overhead paper globe
q 9 wall paintings + 1 mirror)
q straw basket with clothes clips
q Misc hangers in closet
q coat hanger on wall
q 5 pieces of furniture: (2 beds, night table with marble top, rattan chest of drawers, book case)
q 1 small trash basket
q 1 plastic folding clothes dryer
q 1 mosquito net over bed
q 1 portable baby crib
q 1 plastic table
q 1 small round yellow plastic table

Living room furnishings

q kitchen table + linoleum cover (drawer contains documentation of appliances + scissors + screw driver + electric extension cord
q 2 red wooden kitchen chairs
q 1 “L-shaped” couch/bed
q 2 armchairs
q 4 folding chairs (in the closet)
q 1 book case + wooden fruit platter
q 1 Swedish coffee table that can be raised and widened to become dining table
q 1 stool
q 1 overhead light + halogen light
q 1 coat hanger on wall
q 13 paintings + barometer
q 1 metal sandpiper + 1 metal fish + 1 hanging seagull + 1 clock (all hanging on walls)
q Floor fan with remote

In alcove

q 4 candle holders + 6 wooden owls + 2 decorative fish + 2 ceramic pitchers + 1 ceramic bull + 1 triangular vase with three metal tulips
q 2 small straw baskets
q 1 ceramic frog
q 1 wood hanging
q 2 small paintings on shelves
q Panasonic radio/cassette/CD player (with remote command) + misc. CDs

Kitchen

q Refrigerator with top freezer compartment (Ignis)
q 1 flat straw basket

Cabinet top drawer:

q 15 forks
q 10 large spoons
q 16 small spoons
q 12 kitchen knives
q 9 plastic handled serrated knives
q 1 can opener
q 3 sharp utility knives
q 1 tea strainer
q 1 cheese grater
q 3 sets salad tongs
q 1 cork screw
q 2 vegetable peeler
q 1 set measuring spoons/cups
q 1 cake knife
q 1 bread knife
q Misc. wooden cooking tools
q 1 soup ladle
q 1 serving spatula
q 1 pair of scissors
q Misc serving tools

Pots and pans:

q 1 tea kettle
q 2 large pyrex dish
q Misc. plastic food storage container
q 1 cutting board
q 1 small cheese board
q 1 large Teflon frying pan
q 1 small Teflon frying pan
q 2 medium stainless steel frying pans with lids
q 2 large stainless steel pots with lids
q 3 medium stainless steel pots with lids
q 1 large stainless steel frying pan with lid
q 1 small stainless steel pot with one lid
q 2 porcelain pots
q 2 large plastic strainers
q 1 plastic mixing bowl
q 3 espresso coffee pots (one large and two small)
q 1 orange juice squeezer
q 1 frying strainer

Bottom drawer:

q 1 red/white checkered table cloth with 4 napkins
q 1 white printed table cloth with 6 napkins
q 1 table cloth (checkered)
q 1 green and white checkered table cloth + napkins
q 5 dish towels
q 3 pot holders
q 2 aprons

Kitchen shelves:

q 1 set of white Saturnia dishes with 6 large plates, 6 small plates and 6 soup bowls
q 1 set red and white dishes with 6 large plates and 6 soup bowls
q 1 serving bowls
q 1 large oval serving platter , round “pizza” plates
q 6 wine glasses, 6 water glasses, 6 espresso glasses
q 3 mugs
q 1 hors d’oeurvre dish (Heradura)
q 4 tea cups and saucers, 1 large tea pot, 1 small tea pots
q 4 espresso cups and saucers
q 1 sugar bowl, 2 creamers
q 1 large wooden salad bowl + 6 small bowls
q 2 Faenza mugs (pencils and tooth brushes)
q 1 “peperoncino” ceramic pot
q 2 trivets, 4 straw trivets (hot plates)
q 6 coasters
q 1 small glass bowl
q 2 large cereal bowls
q 1 small red tray
q 1 funnel, 1 salt and pepper mill
q 2 plastic pasta canisters
q misc. supplies

Broom closet (behind stove)

q Stove + stove-top bread toaster + roasting pan
q Sink + plate dryer + rubbish bin
q Washing machine (Zerowatt Euro ESP 401)
q 1 broom + 1 dust pan
q 1 mop
q 3 plastic buckets
q 1 hand broom + 1 hand dust pan
q 1 room divider

Bath room

q 2 mirrors
q rattan shelf
q 1 small plastic trash basket
q toilet bowl brush
q electric hair dryer
q 2 bath mats

If there is anything missing please let us know. Also we would be very grateful for any suggestions concerning anything else that you feel we should try to provide that would make your stay more comfortable.

Things to do

2007-11-25T11:53:00.001-05:00

Walk around the historic center, the port, buy an ice cream or a crepe.

Visit the Forte Sangallo which now houses the WWII war museum and garden and often has cultural events.

Have some local wine at Silvana’s wine cellar, Via Cattaneo, 48. She will also cook for you if you give her advance notice.

Visit the American Cemetery in Nettuno, a British cemetery is in Anzio – both stark reminders of the devastation of World War II.

On Thursday mornings there is a large open produce and clothing market on the road in front of the American cemetery.

If you have a car you can visit other nearby towns: Cori, Ninfa, Sermonetta. The mountain towns often have outdoor summer concerts in beautiful castles.

Take an afternoon walk to Anzio and try out its port-side restaurants. Better priced than some of the bigger places is “Il Grecale” at Riva Zanardelli 57. Also in Anzio is a delightful wine bar called “Vini e Delizie” run by our friend Daniela.

Further south Latina, Terracina. Drive to Gaeta for lunch. Visit Sperlonga!

From Anzio, take the boat to the Pontine islands Ponza and their turquoise waters, tiny vineyards, wild herbs and flowers. Ponza is the most interesting island. It's full of grottoes and secluded beaches. The Pilatus Caves are one of the main highlights. Ventotene is smaller. Its tranquility is probably its main draw.

There are tennis courts a little way out of town. Also we’re told there is a golf course …
Rome is just an hour away. There are tourist information desks at the Termini station. If you go into Rome, ask at the Nettuno train station about the daily/weekly/monthly tickets. We use the daily – it costs about E.7 and includes Nettuno-Rome-Nettuno, as well as all public transportation within Rome – a great deal! Remember the last train back to Nettuno leaves Rome Termini at about 9 pm.

I won’t even try to make suggestions about Rome. But I will say that the 64 bus goes straight through historic Rome and on across the Tiber to the Vatican. Be careful on crowded buses. Because of its appealing route, tourists become easy targets for pick-pockets!

The best way to see Rome is on foot. There are many walking itineraries. Get a guide book that includes walks. We have been told that the new Lonely Planet is terrific. In the parking lot in front of the train station in Rome, bicycles can be rented. If you show a train ticket, you get a better rate.

Where to Eat

2007-11-25T11:49:00.000-05:00

Pizzas:

Paulo’s Pizzeria del’ Archetto. A small pizzeria just off the Piazza Colonna. This is the best pizza in town. That’s all they serve. Simple décor, paper table cloths. They also have take out from their oven across the alley.

At the southern entrance to the “borgo” is Mario’s – another favorite ….

Trattorias:

“Trattoria del Borgo Antico - Da Carla” in our Piazza. Great home cooking tending to heavy. Everything from fish and chips to a super seafood platter. You can order special dinners too! Best in warm weather when you can sit outside.

Next door to Paulo’s Pizzeria is “Da Romolo”. A nice little trattoria. The food is excellent. Try the gnocchi alla pescatore or the tagliarini alle scolgie.

In the same Piazza, “El Centro” di Rodolfo. This is perhaps the most famous restaurant in Nettuno. But be forewarned: it’s gotten a little expensive! Take a moment to look at the fotos of old Nettuno inside.

In the summer (April through September) all of the restaurants have outside tables. In addition it seems that there are innumerable tiny pubs, bars, ice cream and crepe parlors in every nook and cranny in the “borgo”.

For a variety of Italianized hamburgers or a plate of pasta while watching the soccer game, try the Sailors Pub next door to Carla’s down the steps. It’s an old wine cellar that has been converted into a sports bar. Good beer, snacks, light meals and an oversized TV screen.

Cafés:

Start with a cappuccino in our Piazza with Eletra. Another great place to have a cappuccino and a pastry or to buy pastries is the Café delle Poste across the main street and slightly off to the left. They make their own pastries (as do most places in town) but somehow they seem fresher and the ingredients are top quality. Good sunshine and free newspaper reading.

The pastry shop on our own piazza is great too. We have been buying our Sunday treats of sfogliatelle and bigne’ from them for over 30 years.

Groceries:

You can buy just about everything you need at La Metá, a mini-supermarket at Piazza del Mercato.

A bit farther, between the apartment and the train station, is a larger supermarket: PAM,. Walk down to the Municipal building along the port and then turn inland by the Banco di Roma.

The supermarket is on the right hand side of the road BELOW an apparel store. Go inside the apparel store and down the stairs.

We prefer shopping at the small shops when possible but if language is a problem sometimes it’s easier to shop at the supermarket.

Our favorite specialty shop is Antichi Sapori – across the main road from the news-stand. Try the mozzarella di bufala, the salsicce di cinghiale (boar/pork dried sausages), the artichokes. . . Let her recommend different tastes - you can’t go wrong, everything is good! Also try out
Mauricio’s Antica Norcinerta at Via Donati 9, just beyond the entrance to La Metá.
In our opinion, the best bread shop is Paolini, turn left two blocks beyond Antichi Sapori. Another is across the main street and down a small alley called Vicolo del Archetto. Here you can find a variety of excellent breads, rolls and sweets.

WI-FI

2007-11-25T11:48:00.002-05:00

Using Wi-Fi:

The apartment is equipped with hi-speed broadband Wi-Fi. In all cases, at a certain point you will be required to enter an access code. I will provide this code to whom ever chooses to use the service.

Our service provider is TELECOM-ALICE. Like so many things in Italy, logging in to the Wi-Fi is not automatic. To use the Wi-Fi you will need to install the ALICE software. I have left the ALICE installation CD on the first shelf in the bedroom. I can send you the installation files as attachments.

After inserting the CD, your computer should automatically start the installation. If it does not, in Windows double-click on “Alice.exe”, in MacOS 9, double-click on “Alice”, in MACOS 10, double-click on “AliceMacOS10”.

The charge for access is not included in the rent, but is an additional E.4 per day for the length of your stay. Discounts are provided for longer stays.

After the software is installed you will need to go to Network Connections and ensure that your Broadband and WiFi connections are activated. The Username and Password for ALICE is “aliceadsl”.

In case of trouble with the ADSL, please call 187

If you have a laptop and are using the Wi-Fi, you can hook up your computer to the stereo system in the living room with the long black cable behind the stereo and use the AUX button on the stereo to route your favorite online news channels, etc. to the speakers.

The Telephone

2007-11-25T11:48:00.001-05:00

The home telephone number is 069880755. The contract we have with TELECOM allows us to make an unlimited number of calls to landlines within Italy.

While the telephone can receive calls from anywhere, international (long distance) calls or calls to cell phones are blocked. Should you need full telephone services, we will need to make special arrangements.

The telephone is also registered with Ja-jah.com. Consequently phone calls to other Ja-jah users, cell or abroad, can be made since TELECOM will see them as local calls.

In case of trouble with the telephone, please call 187.

Medical Emergencies

2007-11-25T11:47:00.001-05:00

Doctor (GP): Dr. Marco Cianfoni. has his office only a few doors away (Pza Marconi 14).

He speaks some English. House call E.20. Tel 06.980.5373. His office hours are posted on the door.

Ambulance: Dial 118 from any phone.

Garbage

2007-11-25T11:46:00.000-05:00

Garbage can be taken to collector bins located at the far corner of the Piazza where the fountain of Neptune is.

Nettuno is making an attempt to recycle plastic, glass and newspapers. Recycle bins are around the corner from the Municipal Building in front of the PAM supermarket.

Courtesy

2007-11-25T11:45:00.000-05:00

Please turn on the heat system only when you need it and turn it off when you don’t need it.

We hope you found some basic supplies such as cooking oil, vinegar, toilet paper, soap, salt/pepper etc. Please consider the folks who will stay in the apartment after you.

We do not think it’s appropriate to leave left-overs. And even though Teresa will go into the house after you, please leave the apartment neatly.

We would appreciate it if you would respect a no smoking rule in the apartment.

The loft

2007-11-25T11:43:00.000-05:00

There is nothing in the loft that you should need. The cabinets up there contain maintenance supplies and tools, and some our personal things. We would appreciate it if you would not use the loft for any purpose other than possibly storing your suitcases.

Thanks.

The Washing Machine

2007-11-25T11:41:00.000-05:00

The washing machine is under the kitchen sink. It is a front loading unit. Be careful when you open or close the door. It has a delicate mechanism both at the hinge side and at the handle side.

After use, the machine must remain off for about two minutes before the door will open.

Operation:

· The dial on the extreme right governs the washing cycles. A long wash starts at “5”. A shorter wash starts at “14”. Set the dial before you turn on the machine. Never change the dial setting while the machine is on.
· We usually use Dixan powder soap “Dixan per lavatrice”. For a normal load use about half a cup of soap. The soap goes in the middle compartment of the soap tray.
· The small, round button on the left is the on/off switch. Push the on/off button to turn on the machine. A spy light will turn on.
· When the center button is pushed in, the machine will not spin dry. Use this setting with delicate/wool washes.
· The third button should be pushed in with small loads, and left out with larger ones. Please do not overload the machine.
· The dial on the left controls the temperature of the water. We usually leave this between 30 and40.
· Wait about 5 minutes after the washing cycle ends before trying to open the door. The door mechanism will not open immediately after the washing cycle ends.

Hot water and central heat system

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The system operates on city gas. The heater system is electronic and ignition is fully automatic. The main electric switch is on the wall to the left of the stove. The thermostat that governs the radiators is just to the left of the refrigerator.

The hot water boiler is in the corner of the kitchen. On the front panel are three control dials and a pressure meter. We have found that keeping these two dials set at a middle position works well.

Summer use:
1. The control dial on the left should be in the “hot water only” position.
2. The switch on the thermostat (by the refrigerator) should be set to “off”.

Winter use:
1. The control dial on the left should be in the “hot water and radiator” position.
2. The pressure gauge should be between 1 and 2.
3. The thermostat should be set to about 20-22 degrees and the switch can be turned on or off as needed.
4. The radiator in the living room has a blower that forces hot air around the living room. The blower is not connected to a thermostat and must be turned on and off manually. The system is most effective when the fan is kept at a low-medium-low position.

The meter on the right of the heater/boiler indicates the temperature and pressure of the water in the system.. The pressure should be at about 1 ½ - but not below 1 and not over 2. If it goes over 2, water should be released from any radiator valve. If the dial goes below one, water should be added to the circuit by opening the smaller of two black valves directly behind the pressure dial until pressure is restored. The larger valve is easy to find – the smaller is above and in front of the larger one.

If per chance the city turns off the gas for some reason, the system will block automatically and the red light above the control dials will turn on. Pushing the button will reset the system.

Stove

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The gas stove does not have automatic ignition. While you light the burner with a match or spark from a lighter, you must push and turn the knob and hold in that position for a few seconds. The oven is also gas, but the grill is electric.

Water mains

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The main water valve into the apartment is up high in the bathroom behind the door. If there are any water problems (such as leaks), please turn off the mains and have Teresa bring in a plumber.

Electrics

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NOTE: Electrical current in Italy is 220-240 V.

There is no 110 V. To use US appliances you need a transformer!!

Without a transformer you will burn up the motors of your appliances.

Linens and towels

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You will find linens, towels and blankets in the drawers on either side of the bed, the closet and more in the storage space of the “L” shaped couch in the living room. The couch converts into a double bed simply by pulling out on the two handles of the longer portion of the couch. The storage space is under the shorter portion. To open, pull up the seat. To close, use the lever on the right hand side to release the latch.

The double bed in the bedroom can be converted into two single beds by cutting the plastic bands holding them together at the base.

Teresa

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Teresa Schiavoni is a friend of ours in Nettuno who helps us with rentals. I will advise her of your expected visit, but you will need to contact her when you arrive in Rome or Nettuno. She will come and meet you, accompany you to the apartment and give you keys.

We expect you to pay Teresa at least E.50 when you leave for her services. This is over and above the rent and any hourly cleaning you may decide to have her do for you.

Getting to Nettuno

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There is a commuter train that goes between Nettuno and the Rome central station (Termini) nearly every hour. The number of trains is slightly reduced on Sundays. The trip takes about one hour. A link to the train time table can be found on our web site:

http://www.HiTideHolidays.com

Trains depart from Rome’s “Fiumicino” International Airport that go straight into the Rome central train station (Termini), usually Platform 27 - a special platform on the farthest right hand side of the station. When you get off the train you will need to walk about 200 yards from Platform 27 to get to the main hall.

Tickets can be purchased at the airport for the train into Rome and the train to Nettuno (total cost: about E.13.50).

From Ciampino Airport there are busses into Rome. Also, at the main road just outside the gates of the airport, there is an hourly CO.TRA.L bus to Nettuno.

Taxis are also available – but more expensive (about E.90 to Nettuno).

Welcome letter

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Dear friends,

Welcome to our little apartment at Nettuno!!

We have prepared this guide to help you settle in and be comfortable. It contains some information that may be useful to you and we hope you will read it . . . We have also written a brief introductory guide to the neighborhood just to get you started on the right track.

When you arrive – and in case of any problems that might arise, you should contact:

· Teresa Schiavoni (helper): cell: 320.385.0978; hm: 06.980.7010
· Patrizia or Pitto (brother and sister in law): wk: 069.857.8050; cell: 338.234.0682;
hm 06.985.0956
· Carlo and Luana (Pet shop) 06.988.32048

Note: In Italy, while there are some phones that take cash, most public phones require the use of a prepaid card. The card are available in units of E.5, E.10 and E.20. Each has a magnetic bar across it that keeps track of the available credit. Cards are sold at newspaper stands, tobacco shops and at most coffee shops. The card then is slipped into the telephone and the display window of the phone will show the remaining available credit.

The best Internet Café in Nettuno is “Na Balam” and is run by our friend Tullio and his Mexican wife Marta. It is located five minutes from the apartment, at Piazza Salvatore Valeri 7, a little square behind Piazza del Mercato. Tullio is very computer competent and speaks Spanish and English as well as Italian. It’s a great place to check your mail and enjoy Mexican snacks!

Have a wonderful time!

Jo and Sally McIntire
7265 A1A South, D-1
St. Augustine, FL 32080
jomcintire@bellsouth.net
Tel.: (dialing from Italy) 001 904 461 3175

Nettuno web site:
http://www.HiTideHolidays.com

PS: We would appreciate hearing from you should you encounter any problems or find anything that is broken or in need of our attention.

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Useful PDF links

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Getting from the Ciampino airport to Nettuno

Walking map from the Nettuno train station to the apartment

Map of favorite shops/restaurants in Nettuno

Google Aerial View

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Sketch of Nettuno

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Night Life - bars

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The Kitchen

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The bathroom

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The Bedroom

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Stairs to apartment

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Steps to loft

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Contact information

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My E-mail: jomcintire@bellsouth.net

My telephone number: USA + 904 461 3175 (if no answer, leave message in French, English, Spanish or Italian).

My Skype address: mcintire

Teresa in Nettuno: Italy + hm: 06 980 7010 c. 320.38.50.978

Payment, Cancellation, Responsibility

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Payment:
At least 50% of the rent must be paid to block a specific lease period. The remaining rent must be paid at least 90 days prior to the lease date.

Cancellation by the owner:
In the unlikely event that specific accommodation ceases to be available as booked, the Owner will refund the Client all monies paid (including deposit).

Cancellation by the renter:
If the renter cancels their reservation prior to 90 days of the lease date they will be entitled to a refund of 50% of the total rent. If the cancellation is made within 90 days of the lease date, they will only be entitled to a refund of 25% of the total rent.

Responsibility:
The owner shall not be liable for any injury, damage, loss, accident, delay or irregularity that may be caused to person or property however caused or arising during the accommodation period.

Rates, Availability and Making a Reservation

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Please see

http://www.HiTideHolidays.com

Living room

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Neighborhood

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The neighborhood around the apartment is like a medieval casbah. It's relaxing and beautiful night and day . . . Nettuno is famous for its white wines and plentiful fresh vegetables and seafood. There are several produce markets, upscale delis, and a variety of great restaurants, trattorias, pizzerias, and ice-cream parlors - all within a short walking distance.

Where is Nettuno?

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Nettuno is 60 kilometers south of Rome (just south of the picturesque fishing town of Anzio). The coast between Anzio and Nettuno is known for being the WWII beach-head for the liberation of Rome.

It is a five-minute walk from the house to the Nettuno train station and there are trains approximately every hour to Rome's central Termini station.

Day trips from Nettuno will certainly include Rome - but might also include visits to the castles of Sermoneta, the wine towns of Frascati, Marino and Velletri, the neolithic walls and gardens of Ninfa, San Felice Circeo, with its National Park, and boat trips to the islands of Ponza and Palmarola - just to name a few.

Location

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The apartment is smack in the middle of this photograph

The address of the apartment is Piazza Marconi 17, located in the “borgo medeovale” a block behind the Piazza Mazzini where the fountain with the statue of Neptune (Nettuno) is located.

The doorbell is marked “Pagliuca/McIntire”. The apartment is a walk-up on the second floor. Our hall light switch is just behind the door. The same hall lights can be turned on from the apartment by pushing the toggle button to the left of the front door. In both cases the lights will go off automatically in about 90 seconds.