Each announcement of a border reopening or removal of quarantine requirements comes with a feeling of euphoria. I’m so excited about international travel resuming and the world once again being open to us. Last week was a very good week in that regard. A number of European countries announced new entry requirements, and I know…
Category: italy
Italy Less Travelled
Italy is a perennial favourite for American travellers. It’s so popular that more than 2 million of us travel to the bel paese every year. Many first-timers hit the big three of Rome, Florence, and Venice. Those with a little more experience take the lake country and the cosmopolitan city of Milan, while mixing in…
one day in florence
Florence, Italy is a great city. It’s fascinating. There is a ton of history in this beautiful medieval city, from influential Medici family to the astounding architecture of the Duomo. One day in Florence isn’t nearly enough time to get lost in the narrow streets but if you’re passing through and have just one day…
on the road: la barrocciaia livorno
The best laid plans often go awry, I’m told. But I’m always down for an adventure. When my brother’s dinner plans for us fell apart last minute, I rallied. Ae he drove us into Livorno, I googled restaurants. And I found La Barrocciaia, a highly-rated osteria on a side street near Livorno’s mercado centrale. Ben…
travel essay: hiking cinqueterre
It was early morning in La Spezia when we dragged ourselves out of bed and headed toward the train station. “Seven tickets to Riomaggiore,” we asked. Maybe in Italian. I don’t remember… we tried our best. No one else was up in the city. Our thirty five closest friends were still abed at our hotel,…
travel essay: il foro romano
It’s early when we leave the flat, despite my jet lag. I can’t wait to get out into the city and explore the ancient ruins of Il Foro Romano. After stopping for an espresso, we head to the Colosseum. There’s no line and we get right in. We wander slowly through the exhibit, peering closely…