Lucca Let’s take a peek at the small hill town and visit Lucca. It’s just an amazing place to visit. There are fewer tourists here than in some of the other well-known towns in Tuscany. We’ve stayed in Lucca several …

Lucca Let’s take a peek at the small hill town and visit Lucca. It’s just an amazing place to visit. There are fewer tourists here than in some of the other well-known towns in Tuscany. We’ve stayed in Lucca several …
The Vatican – From A Different Perspective – ABOVE! When most people think of the Vatican, they envision the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica, the rich history of the Vatican Museums, and the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel. Yet, many visitors overlook …
Life in Italy… is it all ‘La Dolce Vita’? People who email or comment on our social media think it is… but I’m here to set the record straight. Well, the record in my opinion. I’ve decided to provide some …
The all-important passport – it can make or break your vacation. Every time I head to the airport for an international flight, I check to ensure my passport is where I keep it — even if I haven’t touched it …
Santa Croce Church was built in the 14th century and is the largest Franciscan church in the world. Decorated with centuries of precious art it holds the tombs of great Florentines. Forget the €8 entry fee – consider it …
Visit Rome, Italy… now? When I say “Don’t visit Rome right now” I know I’m in for a bit of pushback from some readers. How and why would I say such a thing? I feel the comments coming… “Rome is …
Leather in Florence Buying real leather in Florence is a bit overwhelming. When you walk through the streets, almost every third store seems to be selling leather goods. Jackets, handbags, wallets, etc. can be found hanging in an array of …
So… You’re booked and ready to travel… are you thinking, “Should I rent a car?” Read on and perhaps we can help you decide whether you should. My purpose in this post is to help you decide whether or not …
Reggio Emilia Reggio Emilia, nestled in the heart of northern Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, is a place that surprises. While often overshadowed by its flashier neighbors, Reggio Emilia holds its own magic. Think of it as the Emilia-Romagna’s hidden gem, …
Discover the splendor of Ca’ Rezzonico Palace Ca’ Rezzonico Palace Venice, an iconic “palazzo” is located on the Grand Canal in the Dorsoduro district of Venice, Italy. It’s a treasure trove of 18th-century Venetian culture and history. This magnificent …
Is it possible to find a great 3-day day itinerary for Rome? – you betcha! There are tons of things to see and do in Rome but, you can see the top sites if you plan your time well. As …
Here are our Isola d’Elba restaurants that you will enjoy! This is the sister venue of Vinarkia in Lucca. Rebecca and Nicola did an outstanding job on this beautiful bar. Sit on the deck and watch the boats pull into …