Shani Laplume
Starting my travels in Tuscany, a region that deserves more than a few words. Driving through the rolling hills of this region, surrounded by rows of tall cypress trees, feels like stepping into the pages of a storybook. It’s the kind of view you’ve always imagined but never quite believed could be real.
Florence, where I lost track of time, walking through the Boboli Gardens, surrounded by sculptures, fountains, and the magnificent view of the city. The Uffizi Gallery and the Academia, where Michelangelo’s David stands tall, left me awestruck. Florence's timeless beauty, crowned by the Ponte Vecchio, was an experience I’ll never forget. However, One of the highlights of my trip was taking a hot air balloon ride over Tuscany. As we soared high above the rolling hills, I was surrounded by breathtaking views of endless vineyards, their neat rows stretching across the landscape like a patchwork quilt. It felt surreal, floating peacefully above such natural beauty.
I continued my drive towards San Gimignano, where I wandered through the old town with its medieval towers, a place that feels frozen in time. The wine tour in this area introduced me to some of the most exceptional wines I’ve ever tasted. But then it was on to the medieval town of Montepulciano next, where another unforgettable wine tour awaited – which made me understand why Tuscany’s bottle tells the story of its soil—of the land, the people, and the commitment to craftsmanship. In Tuscany, wine isn’t just a drink; it’s a way of life, woven into the very fabric of the region’s culture and history.
Siena with the timeless allure of its Piazza del Campo, a grand square that feels like stepping into a living piece of history. Surrounded by medieval buildings, the square hosts the famous Palio di Siena horse race, but even on quiet days, its beauty is undeniable. As I wandered through the narrow streets, I stumbled upon hidden doors tucked away in corners, each one seemingly with its own secret to tell, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich past.
Next on my itinerary was the Ligurian coast, with its striking cliffs and vibrant villages. Cinque Terre, with its five picturesque towns—Manarola, Vernazza, Monterosso, Corniglia, and Riomaggiore—captivated me. Hiking the rugged trails that link the towns offered awe-inspiring views of the Mediterranean, and after a day of adventure, enjoying local focaccia in Riomaggiore was the perfect way to unwind. I explored the glamorous town of Portofino, arriving by ferry and strolling through its cobblestone streets, lined with luxury boutiques. It was the epitome of elegance, a postcard-perfect town by the sea. Elba, an island steeped in history, provided a unique experience as well. I toured the Locman watch factory and uncovered the hidden beauty of hematite, a memorable souvenir to remind me of this enchanting destination.
My journey through Northern Italy took me from Milan to Venice, each city offering its own unique charm. No trip to Italy would be complete without experiencing Venice, where I wandered through its enchanting narrow streets and took a serene gondola ride along the canals, soaking in the city’s magical atmosphere. I also visited the vibrant Murano and Burano islands, where the colorful houses and intricate glasswork left me in awe. Verona, with its timeless connection to Romeo and Juliet, added a touch of romance to my exploration of Veneto. Milan, the fashion capital of the world, was as stylish as expected, and while I soaked in the city’s energy and toured the historic Sforza Castle, it was the tranquil beauty of Lake Maggiore in Lombardy that truly stole my heart. Cruising the lake by boat, I was captivated by the elegance of Stresa and the picturesque Borromean islands, making it one of my favorite spots on the entire trip.
In Emilia Romagna, a region still flying under the radar for most tourists but rapidly gaining attention, I had the chance to dive into the heart of Italy’s culinary excellence—Parma. I got to witness the making of the famous Parmigiano-Reggiano, explore the caves where Prosciutto di Parma is aged, and learn the true art of crafting real balsamic vinegar. Each experience was a delicious revelation. To wrap up my journey through Emilia Romagna, I took a thrilling detour to Maranello, home of Ferrari—an absolute must for any car enthusiast. It was the perfect way to complete this unforgettable adventure.**