Thirty miles of jaw-dropping magnificence: this remains one of the most dramatic and exciting stretches of coastline in Europe despite the ever-increasing numbers of tourists. John Steinbeck wrote of the Amalfi Coast, "It is a dream place that isn't quite real when you are there." The picturesque villages clinging to sheer mountainsides that drop into turquoise waters are certainly a dazzling sight that you can scarcely believe, and that you will never forget. The spectacular scenery provided by the Lattari limestone cliffs and the terraced groves and vineyards, is further enhanced by the colorful, tiled domes of the churches that grace these picture-postcard tourist resorts, and the white sails of pleasure boats skimming along the shore line. In his Decameron, Boccaccio described this region as "the only delectable part of Italy, full of towns, gardens, springs and wealthy men." This is perhaps truer today than ever before. The isolation of Amalfi and surrounding villages prompted a decline in economic importance and population which has only recently revived, through the construction of the cliff-top road linking the region to Naples and Salerno, and the advent of tourism. For those who do decide to make the Amalfi Coast the base for their visit to the region, there is enough diversity in the several resorts here to suit almost everyone. Indefatigable shoppers and lovers of glitz and glamor will adore Positano, its narrow streets crammed with boutiques so trendy that clothes bought here are judged to have a style of their own, with plenty of bars and clubs where you can show them off. Amalfi offers a good central location, and the benefits of a beach resort with a number of cultural and historic sites thrown in. Ravello, nestling in the hills above, is unequalled for romance and elegance. This guide tell you everything you need to know about this unforgettable area and how to experience it fully.