Italy is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. This, therefore, means that many tourists usually visit the country’s famous locations, museums, ancient churches, and cathedrals. During peak season, tourist facilities and…
While you’re in the Siena area, you’ll want to make a side trip to Montalcino. Montalcino is a walled hilltop town in Tuscany that has wonderful views of the surrounding valleys. Located 27 miles south of…
If you just read reviews of Antica Torre hotel in the Italy travel guidebooks, you’d be forgiven for thinking it would make a great place to stay in Siena, Italy. For example, both the Frommer’s guidebook and…
Looking for a Tuscan cafe that serves vegetarian food in Siena, Italy? I’ve got a great suggestion for you. Nello La Taverna Nello La Taverna is sometimes referred to as La Taverna di Nello. This…
Looking for restaurant recommendations for the hilltowns of Tuscany? I’ve gleaned some insider tips from Ferenc Mate’s delightful memoir A Vineyard in Tuscany. Mate loves food and wine with a passion. While renovating his dream…
Pienza is a beautiful little Renaissance town in Tuscany with a fascinating history. It’s located between Montepulciano and Montalcino, and is less than an hour’s drive or bus ride from Siena. As a perfectly preserved Renaissance…
It’s a long way from Nanaimo to Venice, and I wanted to make the journey as fast as possible. Alas, my chauffeurs had a different idea. I really should be grateful to them for hauling…
Another Italy travel tip is to purchase a multiday pass for the vaporetto (water bus) in Venice. It’s a great deal that many tourists aren’t aware of or aren’t confident enough to use. Buying a…
One of my favorite Venice things to do is a vaporetto (water bus) tour on the Grand Canal. On Day 2, before we went out to dinner, we spent a couple of hours doing just…
My number one tip for Venice things to do? Walk. Take a break from maps, guidebooks and lineups, and simply wander the streets. Leave your list of “must see” buildings behind in the hotel. If…