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📌LecceOften referred to as the "Florence of the South," Lecce, nestled in Puglia's Salento region, is a masterpiece scul...
03/25/2025

📌Lecce

Often referred to as the "Florence of the South," Lecce, nestled in Puglia's Salento region, is a masterpiece sculpted from its signature soft, creamy limestone.

This enchanting city is a Baroque treasure trove, where every street and piazza tells a story through intricate facades and breathtaking architecture.

Steeped in history, Lecce brings the past to life with its ornate churches, grand piazzas, and ancient ruins. Once a strategic Roman port, its legacy endures in the well-preserved amphitheater and remnants of ancient roads.

Today, Lecce thrives with traditional industries like olive oil, wine, and ceramics, preserving its artisan spirit and cultural heritage while captivating visitors with its timeless charm.

An amazing city to explore on the other side of Italy's southern coast! Have you ever been?😎😍

📌 Belmond Grand Hotel TimeoEstablished in 1873, the Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo holds the distinction of being Taormina’s ...
03/21/2025

📌 Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo

Established in 1873, the Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo holds the distinction of being Taormina’s first hotel and remains an extraordinary destination. Set in a prime location, it boasts breathtaking views of the sunlit Bay of Naxos, the majestic Mount Etna, and the ancient Greco-Roman amphitheater.

Surrounded by a tranquil, centuries-old park filled with cypresses and magnolias, the hotel blends natural beauty with timeless charm. By the late 19th century, it had become a favored retreat for royalty, aristocrats, politicians, distinguished scholars, and renowned artists. Its warm hospitality, deeply rooted in Sicily’s noble traditions, ensures every guest experiences an atmosphere of genuine elegance and grace.

Seamlessly combining old-world sophistication with modern luxury, the hotel’s interiors showcase Victorian antiques, wooden floors, intricate tilework, and vaulted ceilings an exquisite fusion of Baroque grandeur and Mediterranean allure.

One of its most captivating features is the panoramic terrace, seemingly suspended between sea and sky, offering a setting of unmatched beauty. Here, the hotel's renowned restaurant, Il Dito e la Luna, delights guests with exquisite Sicilian and Mediterranean cuisine. With its enchanting atmosphere and breathtaking views, this serene retreat offers a timeless escape where romance and tranquility reign.

This hotel is an amazing option to stay, what are your thoughts about it? 😎🥰

📌 NotoNoto is a masterpiece of Baroque town design, a testament to resilience and artistic brilliance born from the deva...
03/20/2025

📌 Noto

Noto is a masterpiece of Baroque town design, a testament to resilience and artistic brilliance born from the devastation of the 1693 earthquake. Rebuilt on an entirely new site, the town was shaped by visionary architects Labisi, Sinatra, and Gagliardi.

Today, Noto invites visitors to wander its sunlit streets, where golden limestone buildings glow in the sunlight, creating an atmosphere of warmth and enchantment unique to this Sicilian gem. Located in southeastern Sicily, Noto exemplifies the harmony of functionality and beauty in urban design.

Its carefully planned layout divides the town into three sections, with roads running east to west to maximize sunlight throughout the day. The local limestone, extensively used in reconstruction, absorbs and reflects the light, casting a breathtaking golden hue, especially at sunset.

As part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with Ragusa, Modica, and Scicli, Noto is a must-visit destination. Beyond its architectural grandeur, it symbolizes originality, imagination, and the enduring resilience of humanity. More than just a Baroque treasure, Noto is a poetic expression of artistic vision and the indomitable human spirit.

Another beautiful place to visit while in Sicily. Tell me below what is your favorite place? 😍😎

📌 SyracuseSyracuse (Siracusa) is the essence of Sicily’s timeless charm. Ancient Greek ruins emerge from fragrant citrus...
03/19/2025

📌 Syracuse

Syracuse (Siracusa) is the essence of Sicily’s timeless charm. Ancient Greek ruins emerge from fragrant citrus groves, sunlit café tables line grand baroque piazzas, and winding medieval alleyways lead to the shimmering blue sea.

Once the largest city of the ancient world, surpassing even Athens and Corinthm Syracuse's story began in 734 BC, when Corinthian settlers landed on the island of Ortygia (Ortigia) and later expanded to the mainland.

Today, the remnants of that once-thriving metropolis form the Parco Archeologico della Neapolis, one of Sicily’s most remarkable archaeological sites.

Across the water, Ortygia remains the city’s most captivating district, enchanting visitors with its picturesque streets, lively atmosphere, and a wealth of charming cafés, restaurants, and boutiques.

It is with no doubt another wonderful city that you cannot miss while in Sicily. What are your thoughts? 😎🥳

📌 TaorminaPerched dramatically on a mountainside, Taormina is one of Sicily’s most sought-after summer destinations, att...
03/18/2025

📌 Taormina

Perched dramatically on a mountainside, Taormina is one of Sicily’s most sought-after summer destinations, attracting affluent travelers and those seeking a taste of the Sicilian dolce vita!

Taormina’s history is rich with intrigue and transformation. In 358 BC, the Siculians who had settled on Mount Ta**us welcomed survivors from the Greek colony of Naxos, founding Tauromènion and shaping it in the style of a Greek colony, complete with an agora, an acropolis, and the Ancient Theatre. The city later fell under the tyranny of Dionysius II and became part of the Hellenistic Kingdom of Sicily until the Romans annexed the island as a province.

Following the fall of Rome, Taormina rose as the capital of Byzantine Sicily before being conquered, destroyed, and rebuilt under Arab rule as part of the Emirate of Sicily. In 1079, Norman ruler Roger I seized the city after taking control of the island.

During the Norman period, Taormina flourished in prosperity. However, under Spanish and French rule, its fortune waned. In more recent times, it has been rediscovered as a dazzling tourist destination, reclaiming its former splendor.

Corso Umberto is the vibrant heart of Taormina, where the city’s true essence comes to life. If you're wondering what to do in Taormina, start by strolling through its charming shops and winding alleyways, eventually arriving at Palazzo Corvaja, a historic landmark that now houses the Museum of Taormina Arts and Traditions.

Between indulging in a refreshing granita or creamy gelato, take a detour to Villa Comunale, a picturesque garden built in the mid-19th century as the private residence of English noblewoman Lady Florence Trevelyan. The villa is renowned for its "Victorian follies" whimsical structures blending Romantic and Gothic elements with strong Oriental influences, a testament to Lady Florence’s eclectic vision.

A city to die for. Have you ever been? 😍🤩

📌VolterraA picturesque hilltop town in Tuscany, Italy, is renowned for its rich Etruscan heritage, medieval charm, and b...
03/17/2025

📌Volterra

A picturesque hilltop town in Tuscany, Italy, is renowned for its rich Etruscan heritage, medieval charm, and breathtaking landscapes.

Its main highlights are the Etruscan Legacy where you can explore ancient walls, historic gates like Porta all'Arco, and the Etruscan Museum filled with fascinating artifacts.

The Roman Theater perfect to discover the remarkably preserved 1st-century BC Roman theater, complete with an adjoining bath complex.

Alabaster Artistry famous for its exquisite alabaster craftsmanship, with workshops and museums showcasing this delicate art.

And finally the Twilight Connection as fans of the Twilight saga will recognize Volterra as the fictional home of the Volturi vampires.

This enchanting town is a must-visit for history lovers, art enthusiasts, and those seeking an authentic slice of Tuscany. 🇮🇹😎🍂

📌 Villa MargheritaDiscover serenity at Villa Margherita, a charming guesthouse in Ravello, where lush gardens and a peac...
03/14/2025

📌 Villa Margherita

Discover serenity at Villa Margherita, a charming guesthouse in Ravello, where lush gardens and a peaceful ambiance create the perfect retreat.

This hidden gem features two secluded suites, offering an intimate escape just moments away from the world-class amenities of Belmond’s renowned Ravello Hotel, including fine dining, a stylish bar, a luxurious spa, and an infinity pool with breathtaking views.

Blending Mediterranean charm with understated elegance, the spacious suites offer stunning vistas of the Amalfi Coast. Guests enjoy personalized service with a private butler and a dedicated chef, ensuring a tailored and indulgent experience.

Designed for families and groups, each suite includes a master bedroom, a generous living room that converts into a second sleeping area, and two well-appointed bathrooms. For larger gatherings or special occasions, both suites can be reserved exclusively, making Villa Margherita your own private sanctuary.

Immerse yourself in luxury with a private villa, surrounded by fragrant Mediterranean gardens and panoramic coastal views. 😍🥳

📌 OtrantoOtranto captivates from the very first glance. Perched on a rocky spur overlooking the sea, it enchants with th...
03/13/2025

📌 Otranto

Otranto captivates from the very first glance. Perched on a rocky spur overlooking the sea, it enchants with the vibrant hues of the Adriatic and the rich history woven into its past.

According to legend, Aeneas landed here in Porto Badisco while fleeing Troy, and UNESCO has recognized the ancient town as a cultural heritage site and a 'messenger of peace.'

Yet, one story stands out above the rest Otranto is the city of the 800 Martyrs. In 1480, the Turks besieged the city, and its inhabitants were executed on Minerva Hill for refusing to renounce their Christian faith.

Today, their remains rest in the Cathedral’s Martyrs' Chapel, commissioned by Ferdinand I of Naples. Inside, seven large cases hold what remains of the fallen, while behind the altar lies the very stone where their beheading is said to have taken place.

But the sea has not only brought sorrow; it has also shaped Otranto’s identity, carrying culture, trade, new perspectives, and inspiration. This deep connection with the sea has defined the city, making it the extraordinary place it is today.

Perfect for the beginning or end of the season, where the sun still brights, the weather is still warm and the crowd gets lower. Up for a vacation in Italy's southern coast? 🌺🏖💛

📌 Lake ComoLake Como is a destination that surpasses even the highest expectations, a picturesque stage of grand villas,...
03/12/2025

📌 Lake Como

Lake Como is a destination that surpasses even the highest expectations, a picturesque stage of grand villas, manicured gardens, and gliding ferries set against a breathtaking backdrop. This 29-mile-long body of water, more reminiscent of a fjord than a typical lake, captivates with its timeless beauty.

Even if it were only a stunning lake in Northern Italy, Lake Como would still rank among the country's most treasured gems. Its dramatic inverted "Y" shape is framed by steep, forested mountainsides, with the majestic Alps rising to the north, their peaks dusted with snow for much of the year.

Along the shoreline, palm trees stand beside ornate villas, some dating as far back as the 16th century, adding to the lake's enchanting contrast of natural splendor and historic elegance.

In the 21st century, Lake Como has become synonymous with glamour and luxury, a name that evokes images of wealth and sophistication. While its proximity to Milan, just an hour away, and its popularity with the fashion elite have played a role, much of the lake's modern mystique can be credited to George Clooney. Yet, the story of Lake Como stretches far beyond its current star-studded reputation.

Centuries before Clooney and his Hollywood entourage, Celtic tribes inhabited the shores of the lake until the Romans arrived and displaced them. Julius Caesar even ordered 5,000 of his men to drain the swamp at the lake’s southern tip, establishing the first Roman city at Como.

Its a must destination when you visit Italy. Either to relax or just for a day trip from Milan. Ever been there? 😍😎

📌 VernazzaVernazza, often called the pearl of the Cinque Terre, is simply breathtaking. The origin of its name remains u...
03/11/2025

📌 Vernazza

Vernazza, often called the pearl of the Cinque Terre, is simply breathtaking. The origin of its name remains uncertain, though some believe it may be derived from Vernaccia wine.

Among the five villages, Vernazza was the only one with a natural harbor, making it a crucial departure point for ships traveling to the Republic of Genoa and beyond. This strategic advantage brought wealth and political influence, which is still evident today in its elegant arcades, archways, and balconies. In medieval times, the village lacked a main square, beach, or breakwater waves crashed directly against the houses, and boats were moored to the walls, giving it a Venetian-like charm.

The village’s lifeline is its main street, with narrow alleys (carruggi) running parallel to it. This street leads to Piazza Marconi, the vibrant heart of Vernazza. Here, life unfolds among lively bars and restaurants, colorful houses, drying laundry, moored boats, fishing nets, and sunbathing cats.

Vernazza’s distinctive landscape is shaped by its historic defense system, built by the Genoese to protect the village from Saracens, barbarian invasions, and pirate raids. Over the centuries, its castles and bastions were reinforced multiple times, and their remnants still stand today as a testament to Vernazza’s strategic past.

On October 25, 2011, a devastating flood struck Vernazza, burying the town under mud and rocks. The ground floors of buildings all but disappeared, and homes and businesses were left in ruins. However, through the relentless efforts of the local community and generous support from outsiders, Vernazza has been restored to its former beauty, standing as breathtaking as ever.

While in low season is absolutely stunning and worth visiting. Have you ever been? 🇮🇹🏖🌺

📌 UrbinoNestled between the Metauro and Foglia valleys in the rolling hills of the Marche region, overlooking the Adriat...
03/10/2025

📌 Urbino

Nestled between the Metauro and Foglia valleys in the rolling hills of the Marche region, overlooking the Adriatic Sea, Urbino stands as one of the most significant centers of the Italian Renaissance. Its artistic allure and architectural splendor remain beautifully preserved to this day.

Adorned with sandstone buildings and encircled by an extensive brickwork wall, Urbino is a treasure trove of history and art. Once a modest village, it blossomed into the “cradle of the Renaissance,” and even now, a stroll through its historic center evokes the atmosphere of the 15th century.

In 1998, Urbino earned a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List, recognized for attracting the most distinguished Renaissance scholars and artists from across Italy and beyond. Its influence on European cultural progress remains profound, and remarkably, its exceptional urban landscape has been preserved almost entirely intact.

Urbino’s history traces back to Roman times when its strategic position led to the construction of sturdy walls, transforming it into a fortified city. However, the city's true golden age arrived in the 15th century under the rule of Federico da Montefeltro.

During this remarkable period, Urbino flourished as a center of monumental and artistic excellence, extending its influence across Europe. It became a prestigious princely court, attracting the finest minds of the Italian Renaissance, including Piero della Francesca, Luciano Laurana, Leon Battista Alberti, and Giovanni Santi, the father of Raphael.

The city's last great era of artistic and cultural brilliance came with Pope Clement XI, who, following his election in 1701, financed the restoration of numerous palaces, churches, and monasteries, leaving a lasting imprint on Urbino’s architectural heritage.

A small gem worth visiting!🍂🍷

📌 Borgo EgnaziaNestled in the breathtaking Puglian landscape of Savelletri di Fasano, Borgo Egnazia Resort embodies luxu...
03/07/2025

📌 Borgo Egnazia

Nestled in the breathtaking Puglian landscape of Savelletri di Fasano, Borgo Egnazia Resort embodies luxury and sophistication. Ideally located between Bari and Brindisi, it offers mesmerizing views of the Adriatic Sea.

Accommodations are both elegant and diverse. La Corte, the main building, features 63 stylish guestrooms, including seven suites, each designed with contemporary flair. These rooms, located on the first floor, boast private balconies or terraces.

The Borgo, a charming collection of 93 townhouses surrounding a central piazza, offers one- and two-bedroom options with balconies and distant sea views. For the ultimate indulgence, 28 exclusive villas provide three bedrooms, three bathrooms, private pools, lush gardens, wraparound balconies, rooftop terraces, and sweeping panoramas of the sea.

Dining at Borgo Egnazia is a true culinary experience, with six refined restaurants, including a Michelin-starred gem.

Guests can unwind and recharge with four swimming pools, a world-class spa, a championship golf course, tennis courts, a kids’ club for ages 3-12, an onsite cooking school, and boutique shopping.

It is with no doubt my favorite hotel while in Puglia. Have you ever been? 💛🍂

📌 Polignano a MarePolignano a Mare is a stunning coastal town in the Puglia region of southern Italy, known for its dram...
03/06/2025

📌 Polignano a Mare

Polignano a Mare is a stunning coastal town in the Puglia region of southern Italy, known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, crystal-clear Adriatic waters, and charming historic center.

Famous for Lama Monachile (Cala Porto) it's the town's most iconic beach, nestled between steep cliffs.

Grotta Palazzese, it's a unique restaurant inside a sea cave. Domenico Modugno Statue, honoring the singer of "Volare" who was born here. Whitewashed Old Town known for narrow streets, balconies overlooking the sea, and lively piazzas. And finally Cliff Diving its the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series has been held here.

It’s a must-visit for lovers of history, culture, and breathtaking coastal views! 😎🤩

📌 GenoaGenoa is a historic port city in northwestern Italy, located on the Ligurian Sea. It is the capital of the Liguri...
03/05/2025

📌 Genoa

Genoa is a historic port city in northwestern Italy, located on the Ligurian Sea. It is the capital of the Liguria region and one of Italy’s most important maritime hubs!

Known as "La Superba" (The Proud One) due to its rich history and impressive architecture, Genoa has played a crucial role in trade and exploration, famously being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus.

It was a powerful maritime republic during the Middle Ages and Renaissance, competing with Venice and Pisa for dominance over Mediterranean trade. Its strategic location made it a center for commerce, finance, and shipbuilding.

The city's wealth is reflected in its grand palaces, many of which are part of the UNESCO-listed "Le Strade Nuove and the system of the Palazzi dei Rolli."

Genoese cuisine is famous for its use of fresh seafood, pesto, and local ingredients. Some traditional dishes include Pesto Genovese, a basil-based sauce made with pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil.

It is also home to numerous museums, theaters, and art galleries. The city hosts festivals such as the Genova Boat Show, one of the largest in the Mediterranean. Its narrow alleys, known as "caruggi," create a maze-like old town filled with hidden gems, historic shops, and lively piazzas.

A vibrant city mixing history with modernity. Have you ever been? 😎😍

📌 Tuscany Rolling HillsThe rolling hills of Tuscany stretch like waves across the Italian countryside, their gentle curv...
03/04/2025

📌 Tuscany Rolling Hills

The rolling hills of Tuscany stretch like waves across the Italian countryside, their gentle curves forming a landscape that feels almost timeless!

Bathed in golden sunlight, these hills are a patchwork of vineyards, olive groves, and fields of wheat swaying in the breeze. Narrow, winding roads lined with cypress trees lead to charming hilltop villages, where terracotta rooftops and medieval towers stand as quiet witnesses to centuries of history.

In the early morning, a soft mist lingers over the valleys, wrapping the land in an ethereal glow. As the sun rises, it casts long shadows, highlighting the contours of the hills and painting the sky in hues of pink and gold. In the distance, the silhouette of a farmhouse or a solitary chapel adds to the picture-perfect serenity.

Tuscany is not just a place, it is an experience. The scent of lavender and rosemary drifts through the air, blending with the earthy aroma of freshly tilled soil. The sound of birdsong accompanies the rhythmic hum of bees buzzing over wildflowers. And as the day fades into twilight, the horizon glows with fiery oranges and deep purples, a fitting end to another day in this paradise of rolling landscapes.

Whether you are sipping a glass of Chianti on a sun-drenched terrace, exploring the cobbled streets of Siena, or simply watching the hills shift in color with the passing hours, Tuscany has a way of capturing the soul.

It is a place where time slows, beauty abounds, and every view feels like a painting come to life. 🍂🍷💚

📌 AlberobelloAlberobello is a magical destination, a hidden gem tucked away in the Itria Valley, where the Apulian provi...
03/03/2025

📌 Alberobello

Alberobello is a magical destination, a hidden gem tucked away in the Itria Valley, where the Apulian provinces of Bari, Brindisi, and Taranto meet!

Known as the capital of the trulli, Alberobello is home to over 1,500 of these unique dry-stone structures with conical or pyramid-shaped roofs. Since 1996, they have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

While the entire Itria Valley is dotted with these charming buildings, which trace their origins back to prehistoric times, Alberobello boasts the highest concentration of the best-preserved examples.

With its Mediterranean climate, top-notch accommodations, and stunning architectural harmony, Alberobello offers a timeless atmosphere, making it the perfect destination for visitors seeking a place untouched by the passing years.

The history of Alberobello is younger than one might expect. The town, as we know it today, was founded in the late 14th century by the Counts of Conversano, landowners who assigned the management of the area to local peasants. According to the laws of the Kingdom of Naples, a tax had to be paid for every new village constructed, and some studies suggest that the trulli were a clever way to avoid this tax.

These buildings were intentionally designed to appear fragile, so they could easily be dismantled if an inspection occurred. What began with just 40 trulli saw significant expansion in 1620. It wasn't until 1797 that Alberobello was freed from tax obligations and feudal servitude to the Counts, thanks to the decision of Ferdinand IV of Bourbon, King of Naples. However, the tradition of building trulli has continued to thrive ever since.

Have you ever been? It's really beautiful and worth visiting I promise you that 😎😍

📌 CapriCapri is a stunning island off the coast of Italy, located in the Bay of Naples, just south of the Sorrento Penin...
02/28/2025

📌 Capri

Capri is a stunning island off the coast of Italy, located in the Bay of Naples, just south of the Sorrento Peninsula.

It’s famous for its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and luxurious atmosphere. The island has been a popular destination for centuries, attracting artists, writers, and celebrities.

It’s about a 45-minute boat ride from Naples or Sorrento, making it an ideal day trip or a longer stay.

A few highlights of Capri:

Blue Grotto: A sea cave that glows a mesmerizing blue when sunlight enters through a small opening. It’s one of the island’s most iconic spots.

Piazzetta: The main square of Capri town, where you can find stylish cafes, boutique shops, and incredible views.

Faraglioni Rocks: Three large limestone rock formations just off the coast, a famous spot for photos.

Villa Jovis: The ruins of the palace of the Roman Emperor Tiberius, perched high on the island offering panoramic views.

Anacapri: A quieter part of the island, home to charming streets, the chairlift to Mount Solaro, and the beautiful Church of San Michele.

Have you been to Capri, or are you planning a trip there? 🛥🌊🏖

📌 Castello di Casole, A Belmond HotelLocated 30 minutes from Siena, this magnificent hotel set in valleys, vineyards and...
02/27/2025

📌 Castello di Casole, A Belmond Hotel

Located 30 minutes from Siena, this magnificent hotel set in valleys, vineyards and olive groves provides the comfort and feeling of a home inside a restored castle.

With 39 luxurious suites, its accommodation embrace the classic Tuscan to contemporary Italian decoration overlooking the olive grove.

Plenty of activities such as wine tasting, spa treatments, romantic picnics and of course tasting de Tuscan cuisine; I can assure you that your senses will elevate and your heart with be at peace.

Perfect for a winter break and part of the Belmond Collection Hotels, this wonderful hotel is a master piece worth trying! 😍😎

Address

5 Penn Plaza, 23rd Fl
New York, NY
10001

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 5:30pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 5:30pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 5:30pm
Thursday 8:30am - 5:30pm
Friday 8:30am - 5:30pm

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