Podcast episodes

Episode #261: Ischia and Procida – Islands in the Sun

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Listen to “261. Ischia and Procida: Italian Islands in the Sun” on Spreaker.

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When people think of islands off the coast of Naples, Capri usually steals the spotlight. But just beyond its glamorous shores lie two hidden gems – Ischia and Procida, each with its own unique charm. Venture beyond the tourist trail to explore Ischia’s thermal waters, lush landscapes, and historic castles, before soaking in the colorful beauty and authentic atmosphere of Procida. If you’re looking for an alternative to Capri’s crowds, these islands might just be the perfect escape.

Summary

In this episode, we welcome back Capri resident and island enthusiast Holly Star to talk about the enchanting islands of Ischia and Procida, diving into their unique cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and insider tips on how to explore these captivating destinations. Whether it’s the invigorating thermal waters of Ischia or the quaint, cinematic vibes of Procida, this episode explores why each island holds its own charm and allure. So, get ready for a journey into island life, discover the unique identities of these captivating destinations and take a closer, slower look at the enchanting Bay of Naples.

What you’ll learn in this episode

  • Geography and accessibility. Learn about the proximity of Ischia and Procida to Naples and Capri, and how to reach these destinations by ferry
  • The differences in island life. Despite their close proximity, each island boasts unique features in landscape, history, and culture, from volcanic origins to diverse culinary specialties
  • Ischia highlights include the thermal spas, sprawling beaches, and a rich history. Visit Giardini la Mortella, a beautiful, expansive garden perfect for serene strolls and Ischia’s iconic castle
  • Ischia has six distinct communes, each offering its own unique atmosphere – from the sophisticated Sant’Angelo to more laid-back Forio, Ischia provides variety that caters to all tastes. Shopping is more unique and artisan than high-end Capri
  • Procida’s small size, vibrant pastel-colored houses and laid-back fishing village vibe are a draw, even Capri resident Holly, loves the slow pace
  • Holly emphasizes the importance of embracing island time by spending more than just a day trip to savor the true essence and slow rhythm of these islands
  • Cultural and scenic insights – from the island’s distinct architecture and natural beauty to fascinating anecdotes from history, including Roman influence and famous film settings

Timeline Overview

  • 03:06 Comparing islands: Capri, Ischia, Procida
  • 15:56 Ischia tourism and island rhythm
  • 21:24 Renting cars on Ischia
  • 31:51 Island travel tips & weather
  • 35:05 Island beauty and geological origins

About our guest – Holly Star from Giardino di Capri

holly star and gianluca

Holly was born and raised in Sydney, Australia; practiced as a lawyer and is now director of her employment and industrial advisory business which she still runs abroad from her island home in Capri.

She lives on Capri with husband Gianluca and her children. They offer a variety of food experiences on Capri, at their villa and garden – Giardino di Carpri, including cooking classes and offer food and wine packages.

In 2013, she visited Capri for the very first time. On the second evening of her three-night stay in Capri, she was recommended to dine at Michel’angelo, only a short walk from the famous Piazzetta. It was this dinner that changed her life! She met Gianluca, the owner of Michel’angelo, a local Caprese, and her now husband. And, whilst they couldn’t speak the same language, they both knew there was something between them from the first smile they shared as she entered the restaurant. Now married, they live on the island year-round raising their two children, Valentino (7 years) and Francesca (5 years).

Holly had a quick initiation to island life and joined Gianluca running Michel’angelo after their marriage in 2014. Together they have since opened the Michel’angelo cooking school, teaching guests from all over the world how to cook the island’s cuisine using Gianluca’s family recipes at over 750 classes in 7 years. They’ve taken their cooking class on the road, most recently collaborating with EATALY at their USA and Canadian locations in early 2020. Holly and Gianluca also expanded their offerings to include gourmet picnics, tasting sessions, villa and boat catering and their range of authentic food and wine products they ship around the world.

After 12 years in business, Ristorante Michel’angelo sadly closed at the end of 2020 however, their legacy will continue at their new venture, a sea-view garden property, the Giardino di Capri. Holly & Gianluca continue to share their love of the island, its mouth-watering local produce, and traditions through cooking classes, tasting sessions, aperitivo evenings, olive harvests, private events, art and cultural workshops, relaxation activities, and much more on their farm adjacent to the Grotta Azzurra with unparalleled views of Ischia, Procida, the Bay of Naples and Vesuvius and their picturesque garden villa in Anacapri

Check out the Giardino di Carpri food and wine products, gift packages, plus their amazing cooking classes.

Follow Holly here

Italian places, foods and concepts mentioned

Places

  • Bay of Sorgeto/Baia di Sorgeto –  unique natural spa on the south coast of Ischia
  • Negombo Thermal Park – Thermal Park in Ischia with multiple pools to experience
  • Regina Isabella – historic, grand hotel in Ischia
  • Aragonese Castle – castle on a tidal island off the island of Ischia
  • Ischia Porto & Ischia Ponte, Forio, Casamicciola, Lacco Ameno, Serrara Fontana and Barano – the 6 main towns of Ischia 
  • Sant’Angelo – a village that is a main attraction on Ischia
  • Elena Ferrante – a pseudonymous Italian novelist with many books set in Naples. Ferrante has kept her identity secret since the 1992 publication of her first novel
  • Giardini la Mortella – Mediterranean and subtropical gardens on Ischia
  • Marina Piccola – resort town on Capri with views of the Faraglioni
  • Corricella – a pretty fishing village and port on Procida
  • Pozzuoli – town on the mainland near Naples, known to have volcanic activity

Food / Drink

  • Lingue di Procida – also known as lingue di bue, a pasty from Procida with cream and lemon

Words / Concepts

  • Ape car – iconic 3-wheeler Italian vehicle
  • Il Postino – The_Postman, an Italian film from the 1950s
  • The Talented Mr Ripley – movie from the 1990s set in the 1950s in Italy
  • Buona giornata – have a nice day

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