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Take a walk on the Path of the Gods. I know it sounds like the sort of hike where you might happen upon Venus (radiating love from her giant scallop shell), or run into a flaming chariot. But in this case, Roman mythology takes a backseat to stunning overlooks of the Amalfi Coast. This is what the trail was named for… out-of-this-world, larger-than-life beauty. Start your day early, while it’s cool. Stop in at a panetteria in Bomerano for pastries. Bring your treats along for later. Begin your ramble at the high end of this 5.5 mile trail and wind your way down towards Positano. There are plenty of perfect places to picnic. As you near the bottom of this path— the sound of waves against the pebbled shore will get louder —you’re almost to the end. Why not strip down a few layers at Arienzo Beach and round out your adventure with a plunge… This is the sort of morning that will remind you that there is so much beauty in this world waiting for you.

Images: P. Kaczynskietzia, Letizia Agosta, Hotel Poseidon

MANGIAMO

Food and place are interconnected. When you travel anywhere, you can find clues about the culture embedded in food. A meal can tell a story about a village and what it means to exist there. What I love about Rada Beach Bistro is that it rises from an ancient fisherman’s cave. This tiny detail sparks the imagination, and the palette. It’s no longer just a deep rock opening that offers a safe place to mend and store nets. It’s more than protection from storms and a place to sort the ocean’s bounty. The original cave has extended to an elevated deck with striped table cloths, candlelight and delicious dishes. It’s still salty, and still fresh like the breeze rolling in off the bay (and for the late-nighters among us, it’s also a club). Celebration over the ages has morphed and changed (it’s hard to imagine a weathered fisherman busting a move to a B-side), but gratitude and joy often manifest in feasting, dancing, and togetherness. This is what I really love about ancient places. Connection to the past, to the demands of survival, and to celebrating the parts where we catch a breath and really enjoy life.

Image: Rada Beach Bistro

SLEEP HERE

Born in 1955 as a private villa, Hotel Poseidon has long been owned by the Aonzo family. The décor is accented with hand painted tiles, antique pieces, and Positano’s original elevator (which dates way back to 1965). A vintage wooden lift is pretty sweet, when you’re staying in a vertical village. I love that many of the rooms have private terraces with sea views. And— get this very groovy offering —you can even arrange for complimentary use of a Volkswagen Beetle. Take that baby out for a morning roar, then spend your afternoon at the hotel solarium. If Poseidon himself wanted to take a quick vacay away from his undersea kingdom, I have a hunch that he’d point his trident in the direction of this hotel.

Image: Hotel Poseidon

WISH YOU WERE HERE

At the loveliest table in Positano, here at La Sirenuse. It’s so pretty, with plants that climb across the ceiling towards the light. There’s a ridiculous view of the town and the ocean stretching to the great beyond. Foodies — this is a “must-do” in Positano. If you can’t get a table, do have an aperitivo at the bar next door called Franco’s — same view — less fancy.

We’ll take you to the Amalfi coast in 2023. More details about 2023 trips coming at the end of this month!

Image: La Sirenuse

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With Beetles + bougainvillea,

Bianca

The post Positively Positano appeared first on Italian Fix.

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The most photographed beach in Italy? It’s where Clark Gable and Sophia Loren got sandy. La Fontelina on Capri has been entertaining guests for decades. And they’ve persisted, despite big storms with big waves. But with a spot this good? It gets rebuilt over and over. Because a day spent at La Fontelina is worth its weight in sapphires (which is the color of the rare lizard who hangs out on the outermost stack). This sand-and-umbrella oasis dates back to the 1940s and is still only accessible by foot or by sea. Arrive via boat (private rentals or boat shuttle) or you can ramble down through myrtles and broom. They say it’s for princes and gypsies … but I’ll wager that every lucky bather feels like royalty here at the Faraglioni sea stacks.

Image: La Fontelina

MANGIAMO

Fairytale dinners are the ones we remember for years after we enjoy them. At La Lampara,  reserve an outside table on the deck. It overlooks one of Italy’s prettiest harbors on the island of Procida. The restaurant is connected to Hotel Corricella and features fish dishes that are so fresh they’re practically swimming. You’ll have a stunning view of Castello Aragonese (which is the sort of vista that fantasies are made of) … I can’t promise you a knight in gleaming armor, but we can definitely shoot for a meal that’s happily ever after (especially if you save room for dessert — lemon tiramisu — yum)!

Image: La Lampara

SLEEP HERE

The sun is peeking into your room, and while it’s tempting to stay in your comfy nest a while longer… you hop out from under the covers to see the morning view. And oh yes, it’s worth it! There’s glittering water, bright Mediterranean light, and palm trees. This is how you start your day at San Montano Resort and Spa Ischia. You consider breakfast, but instead slip into your new polka-dotted bathing suit, grab your sunhat, and flip-flop your way to the thermal pools. Now for the hard part… should you soak in this pool, or that one, or that one?… With so many to choose from, and all the panoramic views, it’s tricky. But nothing’s stopping you from trying them all (after all, this is Ischia, and soaking is a thing). Maybe break up the day with a mud scrub, a barefoot stroll through the lemon grove, or a visit to the natural-grotto-sauna. If you decide to explore a little further, a shuttle will whisk you to the beach or into town … And when the evening comes, the fiery pink sky will reflect the joy that’s lighting up your heart. Spa hotels are just soooo nice! And so are spa parks. Ahhh…what? Here’s another fun part… If you don’t stay at a spa hotel, Negombo is a wonderful alternative, especially if you like the idea of hydrotherapy in a botanical garden. Mmm, remember that cute swimsuit? Better pack two.

Image: San Montano Resort and Spa

WISH YOU WERE HERE

In the Italian Cultural Capital of 2022! There’s something undeniably cozy about Procida. You might wonder why the homes in the harbor are so bright — historically it was a way for the fisherman to spot their way back from sea. They’re beacons calling home the catch, and the weathered fishers who haul it in. This snugly radiant waterfront is also a draw for anyone who longs to spend whimsical days on a colorful island… Perhaps it’s the energy of the ancient medieval castle perched 90 meters above the sea, or the rhythm of the waves … but there’s something about this sun-washed haven where time seems to slow down. When you hop onto the ferry from Naples to Procida, I dare you to leave your watch behind!  I’ve been hinting that we have new itineraries we’re revealing soon.  More details coming at the end of this month.

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With palms + polka-dots

Bianca

The post Italian Islands Loop of Procida, Ischia, and Capri appeared first on Italian Fix.

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Being in the center of the universe is dreamworthy, and Naples is a universe all of its own. There are plenty of things to keep you busy in the city for days. But within an hour you can access the catacombs beneath Naples, Pompeii, the islands of Capri, Ischia, and Procida (which was deemed the Capital of Culture in 2022). Ups and downs are a part of life, and they’re certainly a part of Naples. Dating back to the 16th century, burial grounds were in short supply here… Which led to the birth of the catacombs and the myriad of rituals that emerged around them. Eerie, sacred, and dramatic; walking through a subterranean necropolis is otherworldly. And while you’re touching on the shadow side, pay a visit to Pompeii. You’ll leave these spaces with a renewed appreciation for this beautiful thing called life… Which is right about when you head for the islands — cuz yes, there’s a whole lot of vitality to be found out there. It doesn’t take long to reach the smallest island in the Bay of Naples, where vibrance waits around every twisty cobbled corner. Exploring like this is pretty epic, amiright?

Image: Catacombe di Napoli, Jfleszar, Archana Reddy

MANGIAMO

This pizza is all in. It reminds me of the layers of the city. Deep, complex, and full of wow factor. Not surprising, when you think about how generational instincts are poured into these pies like paint on canvas. It’s art, and it’s love on a plate. It’s the evolution of something great, made even tastier with each generation — pizza, after all, is nothing new. In fact, it’s a throwback to ancient times when the folks in Egypt, Greece, and Rome decorated flatbreads with toppings and gulped them down… But I’m guessing it was never quite like this ooey-gooey-business that will make you wonder if you can take down just one more sliver… Gino Sorbillo was founded way back in 1935, and almost a century later the ovens are still firing. It’s the kind of place that can make a grown man cry. Seriously, the family feel of this pizzeria brought my husband to tears. Maybe it was how Grandma Sorbillo took such care in the way she served our daughter, or the Italian version of a Mariachi band that showed up and played their hearts out, or the soul that is the zest of each bite. Whatever it was, one thing’s for sure… It was good.

Image: Phil Mallardo

SLEEP HERE

If we were to compare hotels and the classic 3 layered Neapolitan ice cream, the Grand Hotel Santa Lucia would be the flavor in the middle. Why? Because it’s located in the Centro Storico of Naples, within walking distance to all the sights. It’s also steps away from the Port and a 12 minute drive from the airport — which puts it into the running for “bookend” status — it’s a smart accommodation to start or finish your vacay from (especially if you’ve had your eye on the lower end of Italy’s boot). Naples is known as the gateway to Southern Italy, which makes it a great city to consider when choosing flights. (Oh, and if you were getting excited about the ice cream that hails from this region? Don’t worry, you’ll be steps away from that too.)

WHAT WE’RE LOVING RIGHT NOW

Cinephiles unite! The Napoli Film Festival is a thing! We love films as an art form and get super excited about festivals that showcase independent talent. Submissions for this event are locally specific as the film has to be set here in Campania, or produced/directed by someone from here. This year, it’s happening during the last week of September. The Napoli Film Festival has been running for 23 years, and yes, they have showings!

(and pssst… speaking of new releases)….

Hooray! We have brand new tours and locations coming up for 2023!!

Stay tuned as we’ll release all the details this month.

Images: Jakob Owens, Napoli Film Festival

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With movies + mozzarella

Bianca

The post The Layers of Naples appeared first on Italian Fix.

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A wild departure from everything familiar is a big idea. But maybe untamed imagination and spontaneity are exactly what you’re craving… Ever dreamed about selling it all and living a life of solitude on a farm in Tuscany? This website will help you scroll through all the luxury farm properties that are available in this region. Imagine waking up to birdsong rather than an alarm clock… to a lifestyle governed by the seasons and shifting daylight. Wouldn’t it be comfy to fill your closets with coveralls and natural fibers? Go ahead— trade in your computer and keyboard for grape snips and a keen attentiveness to soil fertility. Funny thing about dreams — they morph and vacillate as conditions change. And in Tuscany, the big, beautiful, expansive skies are the limit. 

Image: Luca Micheli

MANGIAMO

Game to zip around in a vintage car? In Italy? I did the 500 Touring Club years ago and it was so fun and convenient — it’s operated from a 15th-century villa — just a cab ride above Florence in the Chianti Hillside. Even though it’s easily accessible from Florence, the vibe is totally different from the city. I have some great pics from that day because we made plenty of stops at all the pretty places. Then, upon return to the villa, a beautiful aperitivo was served. It’s a day where you just smile the whole time. 

Image: 500 Touring Club

SLEEP HERE

Sustainability is where it’s at as we evolve towards conscious tourism. In Italy, there are special licenses called agriturismo (which you may have already realized if you’ve been drooling over those luxe farm properties we mentioned). To get these special licenses you need to produce products on your property — so Italy is full of places where you can stay and also enjoy some of these products. Think veg, honey, cheese, wine, and olive oil. Salcheto Winery has made a dedicated effort to minimize (and calculate) their carbon footprint while welcoming guests into the cozy fold of farmhouse nights and garden-to-table meals (all rooms include breakfast – yum!). During your stay at Salcheto, you have the opportunity to tour extensive cellars and discover the processes involved in making extraordinary wines. See what your olfactory is made of and raise your hand for a blind “sensorial” tasting… then tuck a bottle of your fave variety into your suitcase for later. But before you move on to your next adventure, plan on soaking your sweet self in a garden hot tub. This pinnacle of “ah-yes” is not to be missed. Powered by natural wood heat, these casks are amazing— which is exactly how you’ll feel after your stay at Salcheto.

WISH YOU WERE HERE

September is next week! The height of summer has passed and fall is just around the bend. Which has me Montepulciano-dreaming…I’ve been asking myself, “Can I or Chianti make time for a fall trip?” And my instinct is saying, “Heck yes!” Because there’s nothing like leaning against a medieval cobblestone wall and gazing out towards a sea of cypress trees in autumn. They turn fiery orange and cinnamon and ignite the horizon. Like Montepluciano’s Vino Nobile wine, everything about this town is divine. The view, the churches, the thermal baths, and the carefully crafted wine are totally heavenly. It’s a view and a vibe that embodies the charm of Italy. It reminds me of what I set out to do when I founded Italian Fix. Which was — and continues to be — an intense desire to create opportunities for people to see Italy the way that I do… from a local perspective on Italy’s best everything. And… (drumroll please)… 

I’m so excited to say that next month we will release the 2023 Italian Fix tour dates! Keep those eyes peeled

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With Fiats + fall flowers

Bianca

The post Can I or Chianti? appeared first on Italian Fix.

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Cruising on a boat through the Aeolian Islands, off the coast of Sicily, is beyond dreamy. Clear water, steep cliffs, and secluded beaches of black volcanic sand create a perfect backdrop for radical self-care. When you step off the dock and onto a swaying boat, it’s a move towards being in flow. Right away your shoulders start to relax. Pretty soon the wind is blowing your hair back (and all your stress away). Drift past the sea arches and picturesque coves, and drop anchor for a dip into the sea. The minerals in the saltwater are good for skin, the sunshine is good for internal systems, and the Aeolian Islands are good for your heart (as in, you’re gonna love this place!). As for your sweet tooth? Not to worry, once we’re sun-drenched we’ll go grab an icy cold granita. This is what we do on our Sicily Tour – and sometimes we even see porpoises along the way. Are you ready for this? We’d love to create some epic memories and meet you in Sicily…our 2023 schedule is out soon.

MANGIAMO

It’s not sorbet, it’s not gelato, it’s granita! If you know — you know! Granita is an icy cold treat that comes in all kinds of flavors. Cold, coarse, fluffy, and super refreshing, granita is often served with a brioche in Sicily. Have it for breakfast, it’s the traditional way! Granita has a 4000-year legacy – once upon a time it was made out of snow from Mt. Etna – and then mixed with sugarcane and flavors. To experience granita for yourself, stop in at BamBar, located in the historical center of Taormina. They serve “breakfast” all day! You can even pair a few varieties in a cup, which makes it easier to choose from their 24 flavors. Or, you can be a purist and go with lemon (the first granita flavor ever). My favorite is almond which is made of ground almonds — I’ve never found anything remotely like it outside of Italy. 

Image: BamBar

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Hotel La Palma, Capri’s oldest hotel, has emerged from the chrysalis. And yes….her wings are beautiful. Originally built in 1822 as a private residence turned haven for traveling artisans (artisans who contributed to the decor and eccentricity of the original property), Hotel La Palma laid dormant until recently. Refurbished and reopened in June — 200 years after the doors first opened — the motif is 1950s Capri. I love that the hotel’s beach club is open to non-hotel guests so they can spread the beach club love. Of course, I love that “Bianca”, a newly created rooftop restaurant, overlooks Capri and the ocean. “Bianca” has a glam vibe, and a chef whose previous restaurant had earned him 2 Michelin stars. Hmm … I’m already brainstorming special occasions and picking out my dress!

Image: Hotel La Palma

WHAT WE’RE LOVING RIGHT NOW

Things that don’t change — like traditions in Italy. Traditions carry continuity through time and connect Italian culture to its ancient entity. Classic recipes on the coast of Italy use local ingredients and specific techniques. Capers, olives, and seafood are all locally available and prevalent in Sicilian cuisine. Saffron is often incorporated into seafood dishes. No wonder, as it’s been grown and harvested in Sicily since at least 300 BC (which is quite amazing — as this spice comes from the crocus stigma — a flower that blooms for just 1 week each year). Traditional techniques are used to make arancini, a staple fried rice situation that is my fave. Another tradition — cannoli — has Arabic roots. Eating in Southern Italy is more Marrakech than Milan — and I’m here for it!

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With goodness + granita

Bianca

The post Seaside Italy appeared first on Italian Fix.

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I wish everyone could experience a long Italian summer. People poo-poo Italy in August but I’ve had beautiful August days and I want you to have them, too. If you know you’ll be in Italy during August, you need to be organized and book many months in advance for the best accommodations in the seaside type places. Typical summer destinations are of course anything on the Riviera (like Cinque Terre, Portofino) and anything on an Italian Island (like Ischia, Sardinia). I’ve spent glorious weeks on the Aeolian Islands — my daughter has these memories ingrained in her childhood. We went on an otherworldly boat tour at night and watched flares of fire shoot into the inky sky as we bobbed off the island of Stromboli (which is an active volcano). My rec is to book 2 weeks, somewhere on the sea. Don’t move around too much and just take the days as they come (but make bookings 6 months in advance for hotels or villas). Go for a seaside villa with friends and family — something close to a town where you can wander barefoot and let your salty hair down.

Image credit: Leela Cyd

MANGIAMO

My fave summer meal is street food. I don’t want to sit in a stuffy restaurant, I like to eat at the beach clubs. But when I’m not at the beach, I just love to eat takeout in the shade of the piazza. The classic street food in my “home province” of Liguria is focaccia. Liguria is the region of Italy that’s below France and above Tuscany. It’s a slender sliver of land right on the ocean. Focaccia is served in every town along the coast in the summer (and buying focaccia is an art — you need to know all the flavors). Here’s a video from many summers ago with my daughter and me shopping in Levanto. 

Image Credit: Leela Cyd

WHAT WE’RE LOVING RIGHT NOW

In August, eat at the beach club. Don’t get picky, because in August, whatever you can get that wasn’t reserved 2 months ago will do. (Italians are very much into reserving, which leaves you out of luck if you have not. Go early when they open and get your spot.) I absolutely love the energy of the beach clubs in Italy and I also love that you can happily spend an entire day under the umbrellas, playing cards, swimming, eating … and you never have to move or go get anything because everything is supplied. Shade. Water. Food. Music. Gelato. Cocktails. You can start at lunch and stay for sunset. Maybe I’ll pull myself away when the kids get cranky from too much sugar and I’ve collected another 100 freckles on my shoulders. Beach clubs in Italy serve very basic fare, and I usually opt for a Caprese. Sometimes a panino. Like camping, food just tastes better when you’re in the moment. 

Image Credit: Leela Cyd

WISH YOU WERE HERE

With friends. These were taken a few years ago but my idea was “summer gathering” and “Italian island” and I invited my friends to get together. Gathering is good — where will you gather next?

Image Credit: Stefano Butturini

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With fun + focaccia

Bianca

The post How to Italy: Summer Edition appeared first on Italian Fix.

I love the things you can count on. You know, like the restorative power of sleep, the contagiousness of laughter, and lighthouses that bring brightness to the night. This kind of reliability is a lifesaver. So why not combine all of those things and stay at a hotel that’s been providing 160 years of dependable illumination? Located on the rugged headland of Sardinia’s southernmost point is Italy’s only lighthouse hotel. Capo-Spartivento Lighthouse is 1 part history, 1 part luxury, and 1 part wild. With 2 outdoor pools, an underground cinema, and close proximity to archaeological sites (as well as pristine beaches), this hotel is – quite literally – a beacon for travelers who enjoy exploring remote coastlines. And at this atypical inn, you’ll sojourn in style.

Image: Capo-Spartivento

MANGIAMO

Let me introduce you to the Ritual Club. What started in 1968 (as a cave with a boulder roof) evolved into an eclectic castle turned scenography for disco and dinner. This coming Saturday will mark its 52nd anniversary. Wildly unusual and organically inspired, Le Terrazze and Ritual Club is a timeless temple complete with spires, dens, curvy stairwells, ambient lighting, and a natural amphitheater. Arrive late to dance the night away, or for sunset dining at one of the most unique spots on this amazing island.  

Image: Ritual Club

WHAT WE’RE LOVING RIGHT NOW

My fave gifts are useful and beautiful, which make olive oils, honey, and Sardinian beauty products (found in health food stores and local vendors) the perfect gifts. In Sardinia, look for honey from Arzachena, any beauty product with the elicriso (Helichrysum in English), and of course… Cannonau wine. Bring a suitcase you can expand so you can haul home all your artisanal and unique finds. 

Image: La Contea Di Rena

WISH YOU WERE HERE

Yes, there are a group of villages in Sardinia that are a designated Blue Zone (one of the 5 regions in the world that have the highest concentration of people who are over 100 years old). But the beaches of Sardinia are where I feel my best. This is why I have 10001 pictures of beaches (one from my last Sardinia trip is above).

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With love + honey

Bianca

PS Want to come to Cinque Terre this September? Last call for these spots: September 1-8 – we have 1 spot left in a private room and 1 room where you can share with a friend/family. September 22-29 — just 1 last spot left in a private room. Send us an email with “September” and we’ll send you more info.

The post Sardinia Steals appeared first on Italian Fix.

Imagine a day exploring on the Tyrrhenian Sea. You’ve hired your own private boat charter and you’re circling the island of Capri. You’ve likely heard the word ‘grotto’ in mystery novels and spy films. But now that you’re venturing inside a small cave glowing with blue light, the term becomes unforgettable. Formed by countless waves over countless years, these picturesque caverns and inlets are magical. This boat trip in Capri is offered by a local who grew up on these waters. He’ll take you to grottos that match the colors of his watercraft – green, blue, and white. The blue grotto is especially unique because of the way the light casts a cobalt hue. You’ll have a stop to swim, dive, and sunbathe in tranquil waters. Hiring a boat is a wonderful way to escape the crowds and personalize your adventure. Not to mention, salty water and salty air are super good for your mood. Beachy waves and sun-kissed skin will feel good on you. And so will a vacation. I promise.

Image: Boat Trip in Capri by Vincenzo

MANGIAMO

Riomaggiore has a newly opened wine tasting bar – I Trogi! This little local is tucked in alongside the harbor. Nautical by nature, the view leading out to the oceanic horizon is all boats and bathers. This wine bar has been created by a passionate, driven, and talented couple – they intend to have their products distributed all over the world by the end of the year! I Trogi has an extensive wine list. The snacks are delicious and varied. Beans, olives, or almonds – paired with the wine, it’s all tasting like a breath of fresh Mediterranean air.

SLEEP HERE

Embrace your wild side with an immersive countryside experience at a luxury campground. This is not quite sleeping under the stars, but…it’s close! The Perseids light up the dark sky, right outside the walls of your spacious canvas tent. Cicadas and crickets chirp their way towards a midnight symphony. Lamplight, the book you’ve been dying to read, and the hum of the night connect you with a slower way of breathing. It’s a sultry summer night unlike any you’ve ever had before. And in the morning–after the dawn breaks across the Tuscan hills– pick tomatoes in the organic garden. Just watch out for the badger in the basil patch! The Lazy Olive is a dreamy property with sweeping views (it’s been recognized as one of Europe’s top 20 campgrounds). The small grouping of tents is situated in an olive grove. Each one is simply outfitted with a cozy bed, air conditioner, and an outdoor flushing loo. Your screened-off shower is especially refreshing with sun-warmed water, fresh air, and wide open sky above you! There’s a common casetta equipped with kitchens, barbeque facilities, and outdoor dining. Daydream in the pool, watch the magpies and kestrels flit by, and unplug.

Image: The Lazy Olive

WHAT WE’RE LOVING RIGHT NOW

Meteor showers! The quest for falling stars is full of hope, romance, and excitement. Italians celebrate the night sky with the Night of San Lorenzo every summer. Stargazing has a place in national tradition during the height of the Perseid meteor showers. On August 10th, people will be heading into the shadows to celebrate shooting stars and heartfelt wishes. 

(Psst…If your secret wish is to have a vacation in Sicily, send us an email = with “dream vacation” and we’ll shoot you some info pronto!)

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With love + starshowers

Bianca

The post Glamping and Grottos appeared first on Italian Fix.

There are lots of reasons to visit Mount Etna, number one being geologic curiosity. It’s thrilling to get up close and personal with Sicily’s giant. At a lofty altitude of 10,810 feet, this is Europe’s tallest volcano. She’s got a base circumference of 150 km, four nested stratovolcanoes, and 300,000 year old lava flows. Etna is many things: beautiful, fiery, massive, legendary, and accessible. Yes! You don’t need to be a chiseled mountaineer to spend time on this peak. There’s a cable car system operated by Funivia dell’Etna, which has a series of lifts to take you to varying heights and views. Or, If sweating less appeals to you, we have another option for stratovolcano vibes: Our Italian Fix Sicily tour! We spend time on the slopes of Etna-at an iconic Sicilian winery. This exclusive experience is included in our itinerary as a beautiful way to appreciate Etna’s presence in the region. Our guests love this stop. In fact, guests who toured with Tommaso on our Sicily Tour in May gave us across the board 10/10 reviews!

One guest wrote, “During the tour, we were wined and dined and very much taken care of. It was so nice to enjoy being in Italy without worrying about any of the logistics. The hotels were welcoming and the transportation was comfortable. Tommaso was wonderful. I felt like he would absolutely go out of his way and do anything to make sure our group had a good experience.” (-Kara)

Wow, I have to admit, I don’t even have to summit Etna, because reviews like this already have me at sky-high happy!

MANGIAMO

Did someone say picnic? We believe that the Sicilan experience isn’t complete without outdoor dining, prosecco, and delicious farm-style foods. You can experience this with Valentina, who hosts an Airbnb Sicilian picnic. We like how she takes care of all the special details for her guests. This organic winery is on the outskirts of Palermo-which is where our Italian Fix Sicily Tour begins. Our tour is actually kinda like a huge picnic basket, equipped with 9 days worth of carefully planned goodness. And the truth is, our guests notice!

This is what another guest had to say after her Sicilian trip: “This is my 2nd Italian Fix tour and once again, I was totally blown away with the whole experience-from the beginning of the experience to the whole travel experience itself. I just love being able to “show up” and then being totally taken care of…I loved not knowing every little schedule detail ahead of time-and the little surprise activities!! Every day was a different adventure that gave me a true Sicilian experience!! I’m already looking forward to another “”Italian Fix”!!” (-Vangie).

Image: Picnic in Organic Winery

WHAT WE’RE LOVING RIGHT NOW

In Sicily, you’ll see vibrant pottery everywhere. There are bowls overflowing with fruit, intricate tiles alongside hotel pools, and colorful fountains in the square. If you love pottery and the process of making art as much as I do, then this Pottery Workshop in Palermo is a great way to spend a few hours learning about traditional pottery techniques. Decorate your own piece (which will be fired overnight and available for pick up the next day). Included in the workshop are some of maestro Allesandro’s favorite Sicilian pastries and coffee, served during a short break. Clay and croissants? Oh yes.

Image: Pottery Workshop in Palermo

WWISH YOU WERE HERE

We really do! We have a few spots left on our all-adults-welcome Sicily Tour in September! You can choose from Sept 2nd-10th or Sept 11th-19th. Wanna come? Italian Fix is super organized, so you don’t have to be! Clear your schedule, book your plane ticket, and join our tour. We’ll even send you a packing list and arrange your airport transfers. 

I’ve made a few spontaneous choices when it comes to travel. And I’m here to tell you that sometimes dropping everything to recharge was exactly the move I needed to engage inspiration and growth. We love how our guest put it, “Everyone in your organization is connected and efficient and delightful to work with…the details are so well attended that it makes the experience the memory.” (-Beverly)

Send us an email with “making memories” and we’ll send you more info!

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With picnics + prosecco

Bianca

The post A Feast for the Senses appeared first on Italian Fix.

I’ve always said that traveling to Sicily is like getting a 3-in-1 deal. Part Africa, part Italy, part Greece — and the ancient city of Syracuse is built over and around Greek ruins. Siracusa is surprising, and offers all kinds of clues to the evolution of Mediterranean culture. Journeying into the heart of this city reminds me of opening “nesting eggs”. Syracuse — the largest egg — is a complex maze of the exterior city network. The next egg — ancient Ortigia — is tiny and special. (That’s where we stay on our tours.) Then within Ortigia, a smaller egg — the Piazza del Duomo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Exploring this area is super easy on foot. You’ll find Borgia del Casale at the edge of Piazza del Duomo. Done in a Rococo style, this palace is worth visiting. Check out the 19th century frescoes and stuccoes, and sip the cool white wine that’s provided with the admission cost. Visit at night for balcony views of the Piazza all lit up, it’s a brilliant nightscape to remember. This is also a wedding venue…and I love seeing wedding parties spilling out into the streets. Andiamo!

Image: Borgia del Casale

MANGIAMO

If you’re in Ortigia, reserve a table at Ristorante Regina Lucia. The tables are in one of the most picturesque piazzas in all of Italy. The 4, 5, or 7 course tasting menus are our choice. Add the wine pairings and relax yourself, because octopus might just be imminent! (If you opt for a single dish, go for the shellfish ravioli and pesto with local herbs, it’s a favorite!) Time it so that the sun’s evening rays are slanting across the nearby historic cathedral as your samplings arrive. On a chilly evening, dine inside under the tufa stone arches and pretty warm lighting. Either way, dining like this will have you over the moon, and waltzing your way back to the hotel.

Image: Regina Lucia

SLEEP HERE

Hooray! You made it to the island of Salina! This is the place where you release your ambitious schedule and embrace a slower pace. Italian islands are our fave! On our Sicily tours we stay at Hotel Signum — but I also think that a Hotel Ravesi stay is an Rx for wellness. Check into your room. Stop. Take a breath. Stroll through the gardens. Find a seat at the Ravesi Bar. It’s Musical Happy Hour, where residents from around the island come to hear local music and sip on cocktails made by Mrs. Ravesi (she uses fresh ingredients from her garden). Oh my gosh, the vibe is fine. And tomorrow? Read in the shade of a lemon tree. Swim in the infinity pool. Bask in the glow of Stromboli. Schedule a boat trip. Rent a vespa. Or sleep in, stretch across crisp white linens, then doze some more. When’s the last time you slept till noon? Go ahead, have lunch for breakfast. You’re on vacation, and this hotel won’t let you forget it.

Image: Hotel Ravesi

WHAT WE’RE LOVING RIGHT NOW

Underwater portrait photography in Palermo! Book an appointment with local photographer Fabio for a unique underwater photography session. Fabio takes you to the Palermo seabed where he will capture gravity free photos of you — floating in the waters of Sicily. The shoot is divided into three forays into the sea, so plan ahead when you pack for Italy, and be creative! This might include your cutest swimsuit, fancy gown, or the mermaid outfit that you wore to last October’s costume party. Talk about vavoom holiday photos! 

In the mood for Sicily? Send us an email with “Sicily or Bust” and we’ll send you more info on coming to Sicily with Italian Fix. We have everything planned for you — just bring your passport — we’ll do the rest.

Choose from September 2-10 or 11-19, 2022. 

They are co-ed — come alone or bring a friend or family member. 

Thanks for reading, and happy travels!

___

With love + sweet Sicilian lemons

Bianca

The post Straight Goods From Sicily appeared first on Italian Fix.