Review of Hotel Pompeii Ruins 3*

Contrary to most of the reviews I have read, do not go in the morning. It is cooler in the afternoon as the wind will start to pick up. That said, make sure you take plenty of water and walk in the shade wherever possible. There are taps in the old water fountains that are safe to drink from, the old lead piping has been replaced. Pompeii is a truly unique site. I spent 5 hours there and covered only about half. While some parts of it are all quite similar, careful exploration will reveal hidden gems of beautifully preserved frescos and mosaics. A map helps but is not essential, as does a guide. I found that some research before going helped identify features and add context. Tour groups tend to stick to similar areas and do not cover much of the site. Entrance to the site is half price for 18-24s, but you will need formal ID like your passport. However, entry is only 13 euros standard and this price is worth it. I thoroughly recommend comfortable, sturdy footwear as much of the ground is uneven. There are special paths to allow wheelchairs and strollers to access the site but they do not cover a large area. As expected, there is ongoing work all over the site to restore and make the buildings more safe. It is part of the conservation process and a necessary inconvenience. In most places there is a bit of an explanation as to what they are doing too. Until October 2017, there is a Pink Floyd Live at Pompeii exhibition in the amphitheatre and is definitely worth a look in if you are a fan. A warning I will give regarding the use of the water fountains is to avoid the little drainage hole out of the main basin. On most of these I found large hornets, and in some places I found nests. They're mostly uninterested in the visitors but I would not want to find out what happens when they get annoyed. Give them the space they need. To get the best out of your visit, set aside the whole day and bring a water bottle.