Calabria vs. Puglia Beach In Calabria Region Italy is renowned for many things. It boasts an immense cultural patrimony (with more UNESCO world heritage sites than any other country), an enviable array of artworks and, of course, a universally adored cuisine. But it’s not so famous for its beaches—with stereotypes of officiously arranged sunbeds sprawling …
BEATING THE HEAT IN ROME
Beating the Heat in Rome Summer in Rome It is undeniable that the entire summer season in Italy is hot, especially in busy cities like Rome. Regardless of the heat, The Eternal City is a must-see. Late June and early July, when the weather is slightly more mild, are the most popular times to visit. …
STAKING OUT FLORENCE’S FINEST BISTECCA ALLA FIORENTINA
Staking Out Florence’s Finest Bistecca Alla Fiorentina There’s an old Tuscan proverb that perfectly captures Florence’s culinary culture: “chi non carneggia, non festeggia”—“those who don’t eat meat don’t know how to celebrate.” Bold, red-blooded, and brash—especially at a time when vegetarianism is steadily on the up—it speaks volumes of a city in which the main …
WHEN IT RAINS IT POURS: FLORENCE’S FLOOD OF 1966
When It Rains It Pours: Florence’s Flood Of 1966 A few months back, during a somewhat challenging week at work, an Italian colleague introduced me to one of his country’s best-loved idioms: piove sempre sul bagnato. Roughly translating as “it always rains where it’s already wet”, it represents one of the many cultural convergences between …
ITALY’S BEST ISLANDS
Italy’s Best Islands Travellers often overlook visiting the spectacular small islands that dot Italy’s glorious coastline and majestic lakes and lagoons. Trips to Sardinia and Sicily, the two largest islands in the Mediterranean Sea, instead of heading straight to Rome, Venice, or the Amalfi Coast, are more likely. However, even though Italy’s main cities …
ARTY ITALY – WHO KNEW?
Arty Italy – who knew? Botticelli’s Allegory of Spring Food, wine and art are all synonymous with Italy. And as an Art History post-grad and a food and wine lover, these were all major influences for me, as well as the thousands of others, who chose to come to Italy. The country is the birthplace …
WHERE TO FIND THE BEST GELATO IN FLORENCE
Where to Find the Best Gelato in Florence No trip to Italy would be complete without indulging in one of the country’s best loved culinary offerings: gelato. Shops that specialize in the stuff – gelaterie – line almost every street of the renaissance city, drawing tourists and locals alike with their mouthwatering displays of sweet, …
STREET SHOPPING IN PALERMO: THE BEST MARKETS & STREET FOOD
Street Shopping In Palermo: The Best Markets & Street Food It is no wonder that Palermo has recently been named Italy’s 2018 capital of culture. Not only is the Sicilian capital overflowing with impressive neoclassical architecture, vibrant Byzantine tiles, and an expansive history full of Arabic influence, its culture has been influenced and beautified by …
A TRAVELER’S GUIDE TO THE 2017 GIRO D’ITALIA
A Traveler’s Guide To The 2017 Giro D’italia Photo credit: Pinterest Grit, sweat, speed, pain, and desire; these are what the brave riders of the Giro d’Italia embrace as they embark on twenty-one days of racing from southern to northern Italy. This year’s ‘giro’ or tour, starting on May 5th in Sardinia and ending on …
PIAZZA HOPPING IN ROME
PIAZZA HOPPING IN ROME Piazza Spagna Rome is simply spilling with history and beauty, and like all Italian towns and cities, it also boasts piazza after piazza. These squares give a rhythm to the twists and turns of the streets, providing a regular beat to the tune of the city. For visitors and non-Romans alike, …