CATHEDRALS OF SICILY
Palermo, Sicily was a gritty city full of architectural treasures and local gems hiding in plain sight. From Byzantine cathedrals to solid-gold rooms in old palazzos, the pouring rain throughout our weekend trip only seemed to complement the muted mood of the city. Food ranged from traditional pastas and cakes, to midnight arancini balls and even sheep’s spleen via street food vendors. A city with both street art-covered slums and an opulent opera experience, Palermo has far too much character to let slide under the radar.
VENICE ROMANZA
Bella Venezia, in all her pristine, postcard-perfect glory; the crystal waters of magical canals and enchanting gondola rides, a palazzo here and a basilica there, clocktowers with whimsical zodiac art, and charming laneways pose the perfect backdrop for romance-fuelled couples and families alike. Oh, and - an evening spent at the opera is undeniably the cherry on top when embracing Venice's old-Italy opulence.
EXPLORING LAGO GARDA
With pallid blue and matte silver expanses of water, this autumn-time visit to northern Italy’s Lago di Garda was strangely peaceful in what would normally be a tourist-filled haven. With pops of colour in the form of florals decorating the quaint town of Sirmione and friendly ducks and geese abound, a trip to Lake Garda serves as the perfect backdrop for a day trip from Milano.