What makes Matera one of the oldest cities in the world? Matera, Italy is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities on Earth—dating back over 9,000 years. Because of this, visiting Matera feels like stepping into a living timeline. There are places in Italy that feel old… but Matera feels eternal. This morning began with a journey that set the tone perfectly. First, we crossed into Italy by ferry, watching the coastline rise in front of us. Then, as we approached land, the anticipation built with every mile. And suddenly—there it was. Matera. Stepping into the Sassi of Matera The[…]
Tag: Italy itinerary
Alberobello & Matera: Italy’s Living History
What makes Alberobello and Matera so unique in Italy?Alberobello and Matera are two of Italy’s most extraordinary destinations because they preserve ancient ways of living that you can still walk through today. From cone-roofed trulli homes to carved cave dwellings, these towns feel untouched by time. Walking Through Alberobello’s Trulli Homes Today we visited Alberobello, one of the most unique places in all of Italy. From the moment you arrive, it feels like you’ve stepped into another world. The streets are lined with white stone huts, each topped with a cone-shaped roof. These are the famous trulli homes, and they’ve[…]
Day 6: Taormina Magic: Where Sicily Meets the Sky
If you’re dreaming about Italy travel that combines history, sea views, and cinematic charm, Taormina, Sicily should be at the top of your list. Today, our Coco’s tour group explored this famous coastal town — known for its views, its shopping, its incredible food, and its ancient Greek theater overlooking the bay below. From the moment I stepped onto the hotel balcony, I could see why Taormina has been a favorite for travelers for centuries. The Ionian Sea shimmered below, framed by the cliffs and Mount Etna in the distance. The morning air smelled like citrus and espresso, and the[…]
Day 1 in Palermo: A Warm Welcome to Sicily
We touched down in Palermo this afternoon and were whisked straight to our seaside hotel. Out one window I can see fishing boats bobbing in the bay; out the other, rows of cafés, bakeries, and gelato shops that make you want to wander and taste everything in sight. To the left of the hotel are family-run trattorias serving grilled seafood; to the right, a bakery whose scent of warm bread drifts into the street. But my favorite stop sits just across the way—a cozy café overlooking the water, perfect for a morning cappuccino or late-night limoncello. Tonight, our group gathered[…]
Venice, Piazza, Music – Day 2
Now that we’re all well-rested, the adventure officially begins! Venice, with its 117 tiny islands, 150 winding canals, and 400 charming bridges (thank you, UNESCO), is ready to show us its magic—and we are so ready for it! Our day kicked off with a proper dose of Venetian charm. Imagine this: me, Chuck, riding the waves like a pro…or at least trying to. Don’t just take my word for it—check out the action in this video. Spoiler alert: Venice has waves, and yes, I survived! As we wandered through Venice, we caught a glimpse of a man quietly sitting on[…]