Peacocks in Val d’Orcia

Ginger Pozzini, Newport, Rhode Island “Bird’s-eye view of the Val d’Orcia. Taken while enjoying lunch on the panoramic terrace of a producer of organic pecorino cheese. The peacocks freely roam the grounds and feed on insects and small creatures. This one is enjoying the view as much as I am!”

Pincian Hill – Rome

Arne Lie, Foerresfjorden, Norway “This picture was taken in Rome in October 2014. To be precise, it was taken from the Pincian Hill [a hill in the northeast quadrant of the historical centre], at a place I pass whenever I am walking from my hotel on Piazza di Spagna up to the Pincian Hill and […]

Castello Malaspina-Dal Verme

Jennifer Mozzi, Escondido, California “I took this photograph in September from the Castello Malaspina-Dal Verme in Bobbio (PC). My grandfather immigrated from Bobbio in the early 1900s and it was my dream to visit his hometown and meet my relatives. I had an amazing time!”

Taormina Old Town

Lorraine & Sid Hope, Pinner “This photo was taken in June 2014 in Taormina old town, Sicily. My husband and I were celebrating our wedding anniversary and had never been to Sicily. We thought this photo taken whilst sitting in a restaurant captured the essence of a beautiful moment in a beautiful setting.”

Beyond Naples: the Campi Flegrei

Follow Marina Spironetti as she discovers the western area of the Bay of Naples, retracing her ancestoral Roman footsteps –with history, legends and the volcano’s own curiosity shop… As soon as I step into my room at the Hotel Parker’s, in Naples’ stylish Vomero district, I head towards the window. I quickly open the blinds […]

Top Tips for Campi Flegrei

Planning to explore beyond Naples  and visiting the Campi Flegrei? Here’s all the top tips from where to dine, where to stay and what to see and do! WHERE TO EAT Wine lovers won’t be disappointed by the great tradition of the white Phlegrean Fields, the mellow red Piedirosso, and the incomparable white Falanghina. Local […]

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express – The Art of Travel

An impeccably dressed Amanda Robinson steps back in time and discovers the art of elegant travel as she takes a trip on the iconic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express… Let’s face it, most people’s main imperative for the daily train commute is more about getting to the office without delay or complication, to get the day started with […]

Easter Treats Review

Easter is very nearly upon us, and the festival of Pasqua is serious business in Italy, with parades and processions throughout the country. Though it’s also a time for sweet treats and, of course, chocolate… Easter wouldn’t be Pasqua without chocolate. The celebration of the resurrection of Christ goes hand in hand with everyone’s favourite […]

Setting Sail in Liguria

Marina Spironetti explores the most beautiful seaside locations in eastern Liguria, while learning how to become an old salt… How do you say lupo di mare?” “Hmm… salty sea dog,” Kate answered. “Oh well, I think I am more of an unsalted land bear.” “So am I,” exclaimed my friend Silvana. Aside from a few […]

The Many Faces of Sorrento

Sunshine, sea, shopping and scooters – the things you can rely on in Sorrento throughout the year. Hannah Bellis discovers the sides of Sorrento it may be easy to miss… Whatever time of year you visit Sorrento, it always seems to be sunny, from the cheerful yellow façade of the church of Santa Maria del […]