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 …
Santa Croce | Largest Franciscan Church in the World
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 …
Leather in Florence | Don’t Be Fooled | Be Smart
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 …
Isola d’Elba Restaurant Recommendations
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 …
Travel by Bus in Tuscany Update: Now It’s Easy
Headed to Tuscany? Traveling by bus in Tuscany just got easier! The AT company (Autolinee Toscane) has been experimenting with paying once you board the bus, including the tram system in Florence. And now you can! Tap Payments When Traveling …
Santa Zita: Her Special Story In Lucca
Santa Zita, who was born in the town of Monsagrati in 1218, died in Lucca in 1278. She is a religious figure dearest to the people of Lucca. But why? Let me share her special story. During the week of …
Viareggio Restaurants
We’ve eaten at several restaurants in this town and this by far, is one of our new favorites. Thanks to friends who took us there! Walk as you are heading down the pier and its the last one before you …
Bronze Pig Fountain, Florence, Italy
The Bronze Pig | Florence, Italy The Bronze Pig Fountain or Il Porcellino, as the Italians call him, means “the little pig.” He is located to the side of the Mercato Nuovo in Florence, Italy. You’ve probably walked past …
Complete Itinerary for an Awesome Week in Florence
This post is more than just a suggestive travel itinerary in Florence. To experience this city to its fullest – you only need to step out into the street. And while you’re walking, watch for the wine windows! As one …
Rental Ban Changes the Florence Historic Center
Florence has announced a rental ban on new short-term rentals such as Airbnb’s in the Renaissance historic center. Were you aware? This crackdown is an attempt to make more homes available for locals. Rental Ban in Florence As one of …
Forte dei Marmi in Tuscany: Lavish, Glamorous, and Enticing
Forte dei Marmi is a seaside town in Italy known for its beaches and high-end shopping. Recently, I had the opportunity with two different adventures to discover the shopping component, as well as, the lovely beach. The town has a …
The Island of Elba: Our First Adventure to Tuscany’s Treasure
I wasn’t sure what to expect when disembarking the ferry on Isola d’Elba in June. What I am sure about is Napoleon would never recognize it today. Definitely more congested than when the emperor was exiled to the island in …