• Italy

    What to Know About Trains in Italy

    Booking trains in Italy can feel confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. Italy has an incredible rail system that makes it easy to get around the country and to neighboring countries. There are many different types of trains throughout the country, and a few different ways to book. Should You Take the Train in Italy? First things first, contemplate what works best for you in your vacation plans. But the short answer is, “Yes! You should be taking trains throughout Italy.” Because of Europe’s low-cost carriers, you’ll find that airfare can be the same price as a train ticket. However, your air travel cost is ultimately higher than a…

  • Books,  Italy

    Books to Read Before You Visit Florence, Italy

    Florence is one of the most unique and incredible cities in the world – and it’s also one of the most storied. One of the best ways to get ready for your vacation and immerse yourself in it while you’re there is by reading books set in that location. I love the history books that make the ancient city come alive, or the retrospectives that will explore how the Medici ruled the city, or even just the history books. All parts of Florence are alive with art, beauty and history. A Room With a View As a tourist, what I love about this book is that it’s the story of…

  • Italy

    11 Tips for Visiting Florence, Italy

    Florence, Italy is one of the truly remarkable gems in this world, and visiting Florence is truly a joy. The birthplace of the Renaissance, it has a large amount of artwork, architecture and culture that make it a must-visit when in Italy. It’s ideally placed in the center of the country, so it’s easy to get in and out of. And as with everywhere in Italy – the food is simply divine. Because Florence is a must-see, it’s also incredibly busy. Be prepared for your trip with these simple tips! 1. Book your personal must-sees ahead of time. If you want to go to the Uffizi, see David at the…

  • Italy

    Mistakes to Avoid When Visiting the Amalfi Coast

    When you’re visiting the Amalfi Coast, you’re in for a once-in-a-lifetime vacation. From the picturesque villages cascading into the sea to the incredible food, it’s a place unlike any other. Because of it’s reputation as an incredible vacation spot, there are mistakes tourists make. Be prepared and avoid making these mistakes so you can have the time of your life! Mistake #1: Renting A Car The train + bus from Naples/Sorrento seems long; hiring a driver is crazy expensive – so you decide to just go with it and rent a car. This is a bad idea! The roads are windy and narrow and there is virtually no parking. Mistake…

  • Books,  Italy

    Books Set In the Amalfi Coast, Capri, & Naples

    I love when I can read books set wherever I’m visiting, and there are many awesome books about the Amalfi Coast, Naples, and Capri! Books Set in the Amalfi Coast, Capri, and Sorrento The Night Villa This fascinating and suspenseful book is set both in ancient Pompeii and modern Capri. It’s the perfect read to feel deeply involved in the history of Pompeii, and to feel the romance of Capri. This is also an excellent beach or airplane book! Stones of the Madonna Set in Positano, this tells the story of two Americans who are – you guessed it – escaping from their past. Reasonably predictable, this book is no…

  • Italy

    12 Tips For Visiting the Amalfi Coast

    The Amalfi Coast is an absolutely breathtaking sight. The villages seem to just cling to cliffs, with perfectly colored houses going all the way down into the water. It’s an otherworldly sight – but one you should be prepared for! 1. Be Prepared for Crowds This is one theme you’ll find for a few of the tips on this list. Because of the Amalfi Coast’s beauty, there are many people who want to go see it. The villages were built before large roads and tourist infrastructure became a thing. Thus, it is crowded! 2. Consider Taking Motion Sickness Medicine This is especially true if you’re taking the bus from Sorrento…

  • Italy

    Perfect Day Trips Around Naples

    Naples is the perfect Italian base for sun, food, and all sorts of Italian adventures. In fact, it’s one of the best places in Italy for day trips! You can easily see must-sees in Naples, and intertwine those with days in the surrounding areas. It can be the day trips to the surrounding areas that really make Naples shine – there are so many things to see and do! The Italian Riviera and Islands Around Naples If you’re in the mood for perfect Italian sun and sunbathing on the beaches, the towns around Naples are some of the best in the country (and the world!). Sorrento Sorrento is one of…

  • Italy

    Five Things You Must Do in Naples

    When you’re looking for what to do in Naples, be prepared – it’s the kind of place you could easily spend 2 weeks and never see anywhere else in Italy! From the Amalfi Coast to Procida, Capri, Pompeii, Ischia, and so much more, Naples is a playground for anyone and everyone. It’s an easy train ride away from Rome, so getting in and out of the city is a breeze. If you’re looking for some major sightseeing, Naples is also a great place to base yourself to see many of the islands. What to Do In Naples Itself 1. Eat Everything Yes, food is coming first on this list. Naples…

  • Italy,  Packing and Gear

    What to Pack for Italy

    Packing for an Italian vacation is not easy – given the variety of things to do in Italy and places to see, you need to be ready for just about anything. From the sun and fun of the Italian Riviera to the crowds of Venice and Rome, an Italian vacation is always a whirlwind. So, what are the best things to make sure you have in your bag? Essentials to Pack for Italy 1. Sunscreen You might think you’ll be heading to museums all day, but you’ll be in the sun more than you think. Especially in the summer, the sun can beat down throughout Italy. Sunscreen is also a…

  • Italy

    Things to Know About Italy Before You Go

    Italy is a dream vacation for many people – the wine, the food, the art, the culture – it all combines for an incredible experience. To best prepare for your trip to Italy, here are some things you should know before you go. If you’re looking for another fun way to get ready for a trip to Italy, check out awesome books set in Italy. 1. Italian cuisine is incredibly regional. From the US, it’s easy to think of “Italian” food as pasta and pizza and all sorts of other fun. In reality, Italian cuisine varies greatly from one area to another. In Bari, charcuterie, cheese and seafood rule the…