Cinque Terre coastal villages and San Gimignano day trip This morning, I woke up to the kind of anticipation that only travel can bring—the promise of something breathtaking just around the corner. Today was about Cinque Terre and the Tuscan hills, two names that had danced in my imagination for years. I was finally about to live the postcard. We began our adventure by weaving our way through the hills, eventually arriving at the rugged coast where the Cinque Terre National Park clings dramatically to the cliffs. From the moment I saw the first village perched above the Mediterranean, I[…]
A Taste of Tuscany: From Pecorino to a Countryside Feast
Today was a full immersion into the flavors and soul of Tuscany—one of those days where every bite tells a story, and every view steals your breath. Our journey began at a charming cheese farm tucked into the rolling hills. There, we witnessed the art of crafting pecorino, the region’s famous sheep’s milk cheese. Watching it come together from fresh milk to wheel was like peeking into an ancient tradition still very much alive. The best part? The tasting. Sharp, nutty, creamy—each variety offered something different, and every bite was a love letter to the land. From there, we climbed[…]
The Cars of Tuscany and Beyond
While this trip through Italy has been all about the food, the landscapes, and the undeniable charm of each town, I wanted to take a moment to spotlight something a little different—a special post dedicated to the cars I’ve been spotting along the way. Italy isn’t just a feast for the eyes when it comes to architecture and scenery; it’s also a moving gallery of unique, character-rich vehicles. From the winding streets of Pisa to the elegant corners of Florence, the variety of vehicles has really caught my eye. In Montecatini Terme, I spotted vintage Fiats parked like perfectly preserved[…]
From Coastal Magic to Tuscan Flavor
Today felt like I stepped straight into a postcard. We spent the day exploring the enchanting Cinque Terre, a cluster of storybook villages tucked between the mountains and the sea. Nearly impossible to reach by car, we glided along the rails and cruised by boat, weaving past dramatic cliffs, terraced vineyards, and panoramic views that barely seemed real. With a local guide leading the way, we wandered through narrow alleyways lined with colorful homes and listened to fascinating stories about the region’s past. Each village felt like its own little world—quiet, charming, and completely unforgettable. It’s no wonder this area[…]
Day 5 & 6 Day in Pisa: Marble Marvels, Leaning Legends, and Tuscan Tables
This morning began with a golden Sunrise Over the Piazza dei Miracoli, the warm Tuscan light casting long shadows across one of Italy’s most iconic squares. The air was crisp, the sky cloudless—perfect for wandering among centuries-old wonders. I set off, camera in hand (and pink bunny in tow—Rosie’s travel gift to me, always perched proudly on my shoulder or peeking from my backpack). We started by Capturing the Icon: Leaning Tower of Pisa—a moment that never feels cliché, no matter how many times you’ve seen it in photos. The tower’s tilt still feels delightfully improbable, like a marble trick[…]
Two Paths, One Incredible Day in Tuscany – Montecatini Terme
Some of us opted to stay close to our Tuscan home base and dive into the elegant charm of Montecatini Terme, a town famed for its healing waters and Belle Époque style. With our guide leading the way, we wandered the streets on a half-day walking tour, learning about Montecatini’s rise as a 19th-century wellness destination. The highlight? A visit to the historic Tettuccio Spa, a masterpiece of architecture and serenity. Built in the late 1700s and frequented by royalty, writers, and composers, the spa still flows with mineral-rich waters that are said to aid digestion and overall health. Whether[…]
Florence in a Day: Renaissance Wonders, Hidden Gems & Unforgettable Views
Today was nothing short of magical. We arrived in Florence early this morning, greeted by the warm Tuscan light spilling over terracotta rooftops. Our local guide met us for a walking tour through the heart of the city—each cobblestone street seemed to whisper stories of the past. We stood in awe at the Piazza del Duomo, surrounded by the grandeur of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Giotto’s Bell Tower, and the Baptistery of St. John. The scale and artistry of Brunelleschi’s dome are impossible to put into words. Wandering further, we took in the historic Piazza della Signoria,[…]
A Hidden Gem in Tuscany: Exploring Lucca
After a warm Tuscan sunrise and a hearty Italian breakfast, we set off on a day that felt like walking through the pages of a Renaissance novel. First stop? Lucca – Tuscany’s best-kept secret and a city that knows how to charm without trying too hard. Walking Lucca’s perfectly preserved Renaissance walls, we were surrounded by panoramic views and a calm energy unlike any other city in Italy. The Romanesque churches stand like time capsules, quietly guarding centuries of stories. We strolled the medieval streets, flanked by towers and lined with shops, trattorias, and timeless beauty. There was time to[…]
Touchdown in Tuscany & Welcome Dinner
April 24-May 01, 2025 Overnight Travel & Group Dinner The flight was long, but the view of Tuscany’s rolling hills made it all worth it. I’ve always dreamed of savoring delicious food, sipping on savory wines, and exploring charming towns — now, it’s real. Arriving in Montecatini Terme, a beautiful spa town, I met my fellow travelers for a welcome dinner. We shared regional dishes and Italian wines, setting the perfect tone for this adventure. Tuscany is everything I imagined, and I can’t wait to explore more tomorrow.