Venice Carnevale

Carnival Costumes by Rosemary Wilmot “I was lucky to join the procession for the Silent Gondola Parade for the end of Carnevale – absolutely fantastic – in an old Batella for eight people. All the palazzi were candlelit, and even the waterbus stops were illuminated with candles. We had two lady rowers, and had mulled […]

48 Hours in Brescia

Amanda Robinson takes a pitstop in a city with an outstanding heritage, great shopping and a relaxed ambience – a rich mix of old and new, just an hour from Milan… One of the delights about il bel paese is the abundance of beautiful vistas and outstanding locations waiting to be discovered off the beaten […]

Magic of Mantua

Mantua was once considered an island with power to rival that of Venice. Adrian Mourby experiences the mystery and elegance of the city today… Through the early morning mist, as my boat crossed the still waters of Lago Inferiore, Mantua’s towers and domes rose like a fairytale kingdom. In the days when the Gonzaga family controlled […]

People Watching in Bologna

Martin Yarnit shares his favourite spots for enjoying a light aperitivo in Bologna – from top-end cafés to the humble bars that garner the most attention from locals in the know… Italians everywhere enjoy a drink and a snack before dinner, maybe as a break during the early evening passeggiata. But the Bolognese are particularly […]

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 […]