Rome:
‘Rome was not built in a day’, they say and the city certainly deserves a leisurely exploration such is the depth and breadth of its history, culture and art. Visit the Vatican the symbolic heart of Christianity and home to the Pope, St Peters Basilica and the masterpiece painted celling ‘Last Judgment’ painting by Michelangelo in the Sistine chapel. Explore the ancient city center by foot which is adorned by the architectural marvel like the Pantheon, Spanish steps the grand Colosseum, Palatine hill, the Forum, labyrinth of secret underground passages, royal palaces, or its infamous Gladiator combat stories, Rome delights in its majestic lineage with awe inspiring sites. Also the Roman plethora of culinary experiences start from the roadside deli’s to the Gelaterias and authentic coffee shops serving the traditional espressos and cappuccinos, will effortlessly bring you back to the best of 21st century.
Tuscany:
Dominated by expanses of rolling hills and cypress trees, illuminated by the ‘Tuscan sun’ to create postcard perfect sceneries, Tuscany will bring a smile to your urban soul, while its exotic vineyards and rustic cuisine, set in heritage structures and stretches of pristine beaches, will pamper your senses. The region has some of the iconic cities first among them is Florence the capital of the region is a work of art adorned by the great works of the Renaissance artists like Michelangelo’s ‘David’ and Botticelli’s ‘The Birth of Venus’ followed by the historical town of Pisa with its ever famous Leaning tower, the well preserved city of San Gimignano and the medieval brick buildings with Gothic architecture in Sienna, to the town of Lucca, with its ancient, well-preserved walls offers a perfect backdrop for a leisurely bicycle ride and a visit to some of Tuscany’s finest vineyards Tuscany also offers the opportunity to enjoy an authentic meal with a local family and soak in the rustic natural surroundings..
Amalfi Coast:
Recognized by UNESCO as the perfect Mediterranean landscape, Amalfi coast is an ideal getaway, lined by the rarest dramatic views of coastal mountains and cliffs steeply plunging into the sea. Its beaches offer a variety of boating excursions while the lush green forests offer well marked trails for walking and trekking excursions. The hiking trails along the hillside hamlets of Montepertuso and nacelle, or The Sentiero degli Dei – the path of the gods, are popular among nature lovers for their winding route through peaceful mountains. Some of the must visit neighboring hamlets while at Amalfi, include the picturesque Positano, with its iconic staircases, white washed houses, hand crafted leather sandals and its cottons and linens; the dreamy Ravello, with its postcard perfect landscape and serene atmosphere, and the Praiano, with its terraced houses and magnificent sunsets into the Mediterranean sea. Those interested in culture, architecture and history can take a trip to the ancient town of Pompeii and Vesuvius. Apart from the natural beauty, Amalfi coast is also home to some of Italy’s best restaurants, including fine dine and Michelin star eateries. It is also the perfect place to enjoy an espresso while just watching people and gazing at the landscape – one of the classic Italian passions!
Sicily
With its dramatic landscapes, cultural riches and Mediterranean flavors, Sicily is a paradise and continues to captivate travelers. For history buffs, lovers of ancient architecture and classical heritage the island is a gem where one case the Arab domes, arches, Byzantine mosaics in the city of Palermo, the golden hued domes of Noto, the classical perfection of the Agrigento temple to ancient Greek ruins of Syracuse all speak the tales of influences of different cultures. The island is also makes a stunning backdrop with the chic resort town of Taormina perched on the cliffs overlooking the stunning vistas of the sparking sea and Mount Etna, the tallest active volcano in Europe with the bounty of nature in its protected nature reserves which is dream for hikers as they can climb erupting volcanoes through the meadows, is an unmistakable part of Sicily. The island coast is also surrounded by many little islands, the most popular among them are Aeolian, Egadi, and Pelagie Islands, Pantelleria and Ustica – offers unique and the intense sceneries, scents and flavors of uncontaminated nature.
