Greetings, my name is Edo Graziani.

Edo it looks like you are doing the right thing by investigating everything about your possible big move, best of luck! Not had time to look for a current years informarion, but this sea quality link might be of some use. I have to admit we have made no effort to investigate other beaches as Pineto is very close by and has always come out well in every pollution report I've seen. The only other beach we've been to a few times is Roseto a bit forther North. It's very nice, but there have been reports in the last few years of problems due to storms/sewerage. I've also heard good reports of the beaches to the South of Vasto, with the latter getting very good reports from people. The only thing I would add is the drinking water apparently suffers in summer and is worse near the coast and the further south you go. What type of place you looking for? Vilage, town or city?

Steve, thanks for the sea quality link; it's very helptul! And thanks kindly for the affirmation; I've not lived abroad and it'll be a big change for us -- one that we're looking forward to.  We're pretty inquisitive, interested people and we try to find the fine line between planning and spontaneity; just enough planning for good decisionmaking and comfort but not too much that we're stifled.  We stayed at a beautiful villa, the Borgo Fonte Scura, in upper Silvi with pano ocean views and its location was terrific.  We drove south along the coast from Silvi to San Vito Chietino and preferred the smaller towns/villages.  Cities like Pescara and Montesilvano are too big and crowded for us; however, staying in a city, at first, would have its advantages like conveniently-located supermarkets and stores; and if we don't rent a car the entire time, bike riding should be easy.  We both like weight-lifting at well-equipped gyms so we want to be fairly close to a good/decent gym as well.  Our "ideal" would be to be at a hilltop village just a few km to the ocean.  What are your thoughts?  Thanks again for responding to my query!!  Edo

Edo if you have a look at Pineto as a beach resort and then in land to perhaps the village of Mutignano or Silvi Paese (which you may have visited when in Silvi) it may be the type of place you are looking for. To be honest I’m sure from what I’ve read that there are many such places up and down the coast. It’s just the simple fact that I know Pineto and the surrounding area very well as we live nearby further towards the mountains. Both the above places their little shop and restaurants, but are also on a bus route, very near the coast and the train line that runs all the way down the coast of Abruzzo. They are also very near the motorway, but not too near! A little further inland is the bigger ancient town of Atri, still only a few more minutes’ drive to the coast. As for a gym, think you will find there are many, many such places here. Use Google Street view here for a tour.Almost forgot, if you have not already found it, this link gives information on earthquake risk, nearer the coast the better.