8 Things to Do in Peschiera del Garda, an Italian Lakeside Gem

8 Things to Do in Peschiera del Garda, an Italian Lakeside Gem

Peschiera del Garda may just be the most impressive town on Lake Garda — and that’s saying something, since there’s no shortage of contenders for beautiful towns in this particular part of Italy. The town of Peschiera del Garda was developed on a set of small islands, located at mouth of the River Mincio beginning…

7 Lovely Things to Do in Lecco (Como’s Secret Gem of a Town!)

7 Lovely Things to Do in Lecco (Como’s Secret Gem of a Town!)

Lecco is a lovely gem on Lake Como’s southeastern branch, and even though it’s the largest city in this particular part of the lake, it’s actually less busy than many cities on the lake, overshadowed by the more famous Como or smaller villages like Varenna and Bellagio.  Despite this, it’s absolutely worth visiting Lecco if…

Varenna Travel Guide: 7 Best Things to Do in One of Como’s Best Towns

Varenna Travel Guide: 7 Best Things to Do in One of Como’s Best Towns

Varenna, once a humble fishing village, has done quite an about-face. Once merely a humble fishing village, it’s transformed into a captivating destination along the shores of Lake Como, a favorite spot for both the ultra-wealthy (hello, George Clooney) and visitors seeking a peaceful Italian getaway. Surrounded by the breathtaking Alps, Varenna’s villas, colorful lakeside…

The Ultimate 2 Days in Catania Itinerary for First-Timers

The Ultimate 2 Days in Catania Itinerary for First-Timers

Catania is a captivating Sicilian city right at the foot of Mount Etna, deserving of more attention than it gets. While it’s best known for its gorgeous Baroque architecture and charming historical town, Catania also has stunningly gorgeous views of the spectacular (and spectacularly active) volcano. When living in Italy, I made several trips to Sicily, and…

9 Things to Do in Ragusa, Sicily: A Baroque Gem

9 Things to Do in Ragusa, Sicily: A Baroque Gem

Picture a gorgeous hilltop city tucked between the smaller foothills, standing out against the Sicilian landscape. A Goldilocks destination of sorts: close to busier, popular tourist spots on the island like Siracusa and Catania — and yet nice and, dare I say it, even quiet… by Sicilian standards. For those reasons (and more), I visited…

Your Ultimate Sardinia Road Trip: 7 Days in Sardinia Itinerary

Your Ultimate Sardinia Road Trip: 7 Days in Sardinia Itinerary

Home to dreamy white-sand beaches, turquoise waters that rival the Caribbean Sea, adorable seaside villages, and exclusive clubs and restaurants, Sardinia is a dream summer destination that everyone should visit once in their lives. What better way to explore this wonderful island than on a Sardinia road trip? Once you rent a car and start…

Renting a Car in Sicily: 21 Helpful Tips From an Italian Local!

Renting a Car in Sicily: 21 Helpful Tips From an Italian Local!

While traveling light and relying on a combination of public transit and walking can be incredible, nothing can truly compare to the joy of getting out on the open road. There’s something that’s just so freeing about having your own set of wheels, and renting a car in Sicily is the best way to explore…

Renting a Car in Portugal: 13 Tips From Someone Who Lived There!

Renting a Car in Portugal: 13 Tips From Someone Who Lived There!

Exploring Portugal on a road trip is one of the best ways to discover the country and reach remote places you wouldn’t otherwise visit. Despite its small size, Portugal overdelivers everywhere: stunning coastal and mountainous landscapes, cities out of a storybook, and picturesque villages tucked away and seemingly untouched by time. Since I lived in…