Italy

Italy is one of the world’s most alluring destinations, simply because it is a world unto itself. From the snow-capped peaks of the towering Dolomites and the vine-covered ridges of Piedmont, to the olive groves of Tuscany and Umbria and the blue coastal waters of Puglia, Sicily, and the Cinque Terre, Italy has a wealth of different landscapes. Add to this the fact that each little valley has its own dialect, culinary traditions, and architectural styles and you find a land that grows bigger with exploration, not smaller. While this diversity famously prompted the Austrian Count Metternich to dismiss Italy as little more than a “geographic expression,” there is a strong-rooted sense of hospitality, and a commitment to good living and the convivial appreciation of food and wine that ties Italians together on a deep level. Whether you are exploring Roman ruins, admiring Renaissance frescoes, or relaxing by an alpine lake, a plate of homemade local pasta and a glass of red wine served with pride are never far away.