I once remember vowing never to travel to the same place twice; the world too big and inviting to ever double up on holiday destinations. That was, of course, until I visited Positano for the first time. Now, after at least a dozen visits, my only resolution is to go back as many times as possible. This is where I’d be happy spending the last moments of my life…it’s really that beautiful. For sure there’s no better way to stay in this area then renting a Positano villa!

Precariously perched on one of the most stunning coastlines in the world (Italy’s Amalfi Coast), the small town of Positano is a true feast for all the sense. The sea is cobalt blue, the blooming flowers fluorescent, the food delectable and the shopping?? Oh my…don’t even get me started on the shopping! If factory produced run-of-the-mill souvenirs are what you’re after you may be bitterly disappointed! In Positano, it’s all about one-of-a-kind wares you’ll find nowhere else.

From the world renowned hand-painted ceramics, to hand-made leather sandals, embroidered cloths and wooden carvings, the town prides itself on its artisans’ talents and proudly shows off masterpieces on every corner.The best thing about Positano is that it is an intricate maze of cobbled lane ways and it is all a pedestrian’s dream! The only road is at the very top of the town, so do yourself a favour and pack comfortable shoes as walking around is the only way to go! Now, instead of telling you where to shop, I prefer recommending what to shop for instead. Spreading your hard-saved money around will ensure the survival of the town’s most talented artists.It will not take you long to realize that the artists’ most intense passion is reserved for Positano itself.

Photographs, drawings and paintings found in stalls throughout the village depict the glorious setting and surrounding areas, all in vivid colours. Don’t go home without an authentic artwork depicting what I am sure will soon become one of your favourite places in the world. Hang a painting of Positano on your wall and you can be guaranteed years of evocative recollections. While gorgeous leather shoes are synonymous with Italy, Positano takes shoe shopping to a whole new level. Here, you’ll be able to get your leather sandals hand-made to order just about everywhere. The designs are striking and the quality fantastic, making this my very favourite ‘souvenir’ to bring home…every single time I visit!

The colourful ceramics sold all along the Amalfi Coast are also well known. Most items are made of volcanic rock and there are various factories you could visit, as well as many retail stores in town. I’m going back on my word now and will recommend a truly special place: Ceramiche Casole. Located in Via Laurito, just outside town on the main road, this ceramic dreamland offers unique and hand painted ceramic-anything. Just a word of warning: I went in with the intention of buying a ceramic espresso set, but ended up buying 3 espresso sets, a liqueur set, a clock, salt and pepper shakers, house number tiles (5 of them). Oh…and a dining set for 6 people. Go figure!

Most shops (including Casola) can organise packing and shipping for you so you don’t have to worry about space. So feel free to buy more shoes.To bring home the true flavour of Positano then you can’t go past a bottle of home-made Limoncello! Sample the lemon infused liqueur in one of the many restaurants in town, and don’t forget to buy a couple of bottles to bring home. Limoncello is kept in the freezer and savoured after a big meal; its digestive benefits are outstanding, and so is the flavour.

This is a guest post by Laura Pattara. Visiting Positano. Learn also about the Chamber Music Festival which takes place annually in Positano.