In brief
The once crime-ridden old town of Bari is revitalizing as it receives direct international flights, sparking both excitement and caution among locals.
In a significant shift for the southern Italian city of Bari, Antonio Maria Vasile has spearheaded an initiative to link Puglia, the region that houses Bari, with the United States via direct flights. Having cultivated this opportunity for two years, Vasile, who leads Puglia’s airport authority, aims to shed the stigma of southern Italy's perceived inferiority by showcasing the rich cultural tapestry, history, and culinary delights that Bari and its surroundings offer.After extensive negotiations, Vasile's perseverance bore fruit when Neos, the Italian airline, announced it would commence seasonal flights from New York's Kennedy Airport to Bari starting the first week of June, making this the first direct connection of its kind. With weekly flights scheduled through October, he sees potential for Puglia as a whole, from rustic inns in the countryside to beautiful coastal villages, alongside the obvious benefits to Bari itself, which has a population of around 330,000.For the local community, the announcement has stirred a blend of anticipation and unease. The old town, once marred by mob violence that drove away both locals and tourists alike, is gradually returning to its former glory. As new travelers arrive and more investments are expected, residents are hopeful yet cautious, aware of the delicate balance between tourism's economic benefits and the preservation of their cultural identity and ways of life. Vasile said, "This transformation has been the fruit of truly so, so much work," reflecting the collective effort to rejuvenate the city and welcome the world.
