Let me preface my remarks with a bit of a disclaimer: for those simply looking to spend a day or so on Capri in order to check Capri off their list of "1,000 Places to See Before You Die," there are a myriad of other options on Capri. However, if a week or two on one of the most enchanting islands in the world isn't a completely bizarre proposition for you, Villa le Scale may provide the perfect venue for experiencing both Capris that coexist to this day.

While one Capri has clearly evolved into a caricature of itself as the ferryboats disgorge day-trippers by the thousands into the piazetta and novelty shops, the other Capri lies in wait for those who care enough to look beneath the surface of this island of unparalleled natural beauty. Capri's dramatic landscape, her sea and her people are as interesting and inspiring now as before.

Let's return to our beginning. Our honeymoon on Capri began July 19th. While we were initially lured to Capri by its reputation for sun, the sea and la dolce vita, we were also intrigued by the legends of the gods, emperors, fishermen and artists who have all called Capri home at various times in the past. Months of research on everything from villas, including a home carved into a cave high on a cliff overlooking Marina Piccola, numerous hotels, B&Bs and even the option of living aboard a chartered sailboat seemed to lead us in circles. Questions, doubts and more questions followed. Nothing seemed quite right for this special moment in our new lives together.

We finally narrowed down the possibilities one by one, ruling out virtually all of the hotels, private villas and boats, ultimately searching only for something intimate, quiet and comfortable. We secretly dreamed of being indulged, even pampered. One day, by chance and perhaps destiny, Google led us to Umberto D'Aniello's beautiful photographs of Capri and Villa le Scale. We both knew immediately that we had found our home for our two weeks on Capri.

Songbirds woke us every morning for breakfast, served on our private flowered terrace overlooking the distant sea. The pool's soft waters cooled us frequently during the day while the vibrant, shady gardens provided solace and peace. Norberto, Bindo and Annie always welcomed us back enthusiastically as we returned from our sun-filled days and star-filled nights. From the moment of our arrival to the tears upon our departure, our home in Anacapri was above and beyond our wildest dreams. If you are interested in uncovering the hidden richness of Capri, there is no better place to start. The rest is up to you.