by Mara Solomon | May 20, 2019 | Activities, Italy Travel Advice
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Montalcino and the surrounding Val d’Orcia looks a lot today like it probably did during the Renaissance. A classic hilltop town with a fairytale castle and fortified walks, Montalcino is the perfect jumping off point for the Val...
by Mara Solomon | Jan 31, 2019 | Activities, Cities & Towns, Destination Spotlight, Helpful Hints, Italy Vacation Destinations, Restaurants & Cafes, Travel Advice
Jutting off the Tuscan Coast lies one of Italy’s most undiscovered destinations: the Monte Argentario. An easy two hour drive from Rome’s Fiumicino Airport, the Monte Argentario offers the best of summer by the sea and the Italian lifestyle rolled into one...
by Mara Solomon | Feb 15, 2018 | Activities, Cities & Towns, Italy Vacation Activities, Italy Vacation Destinations, Italy Villa Rentals
The Amalfi Coast with its dramatic coastline and seaside charm is a top destination for many travelers to Italy. But the true beauty of Amalfi lies just off the beaten track in our favorite local eateries, hikes and activities. These coastal destinations will offer a...
by Mara Solomon | Aug 17, 2017 | Activities
10 Italian Villas to Make Your Summer Pool Party Dreams Come True The key to the ultimate summer pool party is, of course, the pool or as we like to call it: “the liquid dining table” where gatherings are centered during the summer months. A pool is a hub of activity...
by Mara Solomon | Mar 10, 2017 | Activities, Italy Vacation Activities
We started travelling with our twin daughters when they were 6 months old. OK, so our work gave us good reason to take them along, but to this day we maintain those early experiences helped them grow into the interested, engaged, curious young women they are today....
by Mara Solomon | Mar 2, 2017 | Activities, Travel Advice
La Pineta is a summer-time pilgrimage for the locals and there is always a warm welcome from the Zazzeri family. This is the place to see and be seen for evenings lingering over a superb summer meal of grilled fish with good wine surrounded by the impeccable style of...
by Mara Solomon | Mar 2, 2017 | Activities, Cities & Towns
A sophisticated culture vanishes without a trace, except a few stunning stone artifacts, some cave paintings and gorgeous jewelry. This excursion can be shaped around your style and preferences – more or less time in the small, interesting Etruscan museum; include...
by Mara Solomon | May 20, 2016 | Activities
The first Saturday and Sunday of each month, Arezzo, a Tuscan city 50 miles southeast of Florence, plays host to a monthly antique market. Vendors from all over Italy and Europe come to set up their stalls and proudly display their goods. This market is truly a...
by Mara Solomon | Oct 30, 2015 | Activities, Cities & Towns
Amazingly and wonderfully, there are a number of free parking lots on the edge of Cetona that are usually available. Be prepared to manage tight turns and small spaces to park, but then you are done with the car and can explore on foot. Explore beyond the Piazza...
by Mara Solomon | Jun 19, 2015 | Activities, Cities & Towns, Food, Italy Vacation Activities, Wine
There remain only three working ‘bragozzi’– one of the many types of boats that once plied the waters of Venice. With Homebase Abroad, you will have a chance to get out for a gracious, relaxing day cruise across Venice’s lagoon to understand the...
by Mara Solomon | Mar 5, 2015 | Activities, Cities & Towns, Travel Advice
Have you heard about the Dolomites but cannot figure out why or where? Unfortunately, you have a lot of company. We have been crisscrossing Sud Tirol for the last several years, absorbing the beauty and distinction that marks this territory. We are delighted to offer...
by Mara Solomon | Nov 13, 2014 | Activities, Cities & Towns, Our Favorite Things, Shopping
Italians are famous for knowing how to enhance the sense sensation of clothing; the impeccable cut and comfort of a natural linen shirt, the caress of a fine leather shoe, and perhaps my personal favorite, the exceptional drape and hand of cashmere. Cashmere in Italy...
