Italy

Outdoor Swimming Near Vicenza - 8 Awesome Day Trip Ideas

When the weather starts heating up, it's time to cool off in refreshing nature pools and stop for a gelato afterward, right? One thing I love about Vicenza is that you have a lot of scenic places with clear, refreshing water right in your backyard. Here's my guide on places to go outdoor swimming near Vicenza where you can find all the coolest (literally) nature pools and waterfalls.

Treat Yo'Self - 5 Awesome Luxury Spa Hotels Near Vicenza

One of the things on my bucket list while living in Vicenza was to have an epic treat yo'self staycation. It presented a problem though because I kind of had this staycation on a pedestal. I knew it was going to be on the pricey side so I wanted to make sure I got value for my money and I wanted it to be an epic experience. The pressure to find the perfect one was sky-high. After a lot of research, here's what I had it narrowed down to. I didn't stay at all of these but wanted to share my top 5 list in case the one I stayed at isn't available when you visit or you'd prefer one of the others. Here are 5 awesome spa hotels near Vicenza to help you narrow down the choices.

10 Tips For Visiting The Amalfi Coast And What To Expect There

It's one of the most popular destinations in Italy. And, while I think it's generally pretty overrated, I think it's absolutely worth visiting to see for yourself, swim at the beaches, eat all the seafood pasta, and buy everything with a lemon print. Today I'm sharing my top 10 tips for visiting the Amalfi Coast so you know what to expect and how to prepare for your vacation.

Is A Private Boat Tour Of Capri Worth It When Visiting The Amalfi Coast?

Look, between the hiked up prices, crowds, and commercialized beaches, I'll be the first to admit that I think the Amalfi Coast is one of the more overrated places in Italy. In saying that, it's definitely worth a visit and also well worth visiting the nearby island of Capri. For me, I knew I didn't want to spend the day walking around the island in the heat of the day so I looked into boat tours. Today I want to share my experience and answers to whether a private boat tour of Capri is worth it or not.

Things To Do Near Rufina When You Spend A Weekend In Tuscany

Are you dreaming of a weekend in the rolling hills of Tuscany? It's really easy to make that dream happen if you're based in Vicenza because it's just a hop, skip, and a jump away. Perfect for a weekend or long weekend away. While I was looking over some of my posts, I realized I had never created a guide on some of the fun things to do. So, here's a guide with some things to do near Rufina when you spend a weekend in Tuscany. These are perfect for when you stay at my favorite agriturismo. Of course, the details are included and the hosts are super knowledgable on the area, so they'll be able to suggest even more ideas.

14 Easy Hikes Near Vicenza - Kid And Dog Friendly Day Trips

If you need to get out of the house but don't know where to start, I've gotchu. Here's a guide to some easy hikes near Vicenza that are both kid and dog-friendly. These are great to get you started on your adventures when you first move to Vicenza because most are fairly close, then you can go further into the mountains for even more outdoor adventures.

How To Hike To Brent De L'Art - The Grand Canyon Of Italy

Coming to you today with another easy day trip idea. I like that it's something a little different to add variety to your adventures - not that mountains ever get old, but it's fun to keep things different and throw in a gorge every now and then, right? This one's got an easy hike, water to cool off in, and a pretty neat gorge to see. I read that it was called the Grand Canyon of Italy and, while I feel like that's overstating it a bit, it's still a beautiful place to visit. Here's a practical guide on how to hike to Brent De L'Art in Belluno, Italy.

A Real Talk Guide On How To Get To Elefanti Beach In Sardinia

Today's guide is a slightly lesser-known Sardinian adventure. It's a small, private beach where you can see a unique treat from nature. Here's my guide on how to get to Elefanti Beach with everything you need to know to plan your adventure. I've also added my other Sardinia travel guides at the end, so you're all set to plan your trip!

Your Complete Guide On How To Spend A Weekend In Northern Sardinia

One thing I wish I knew earlier while I was living in Italy is just how easy it is to get to Sardinia. And also just how beautiful it is. It is easily my favorite part of Italy, closely followed by the Dolomites. Whatever you do, don't wait as long as I did to plan a visit, especially if you love the beach. Here's my guide on how to spend a weekend in northern Sardinia to prepare you for your trip. It's got you covered with tips on how to get there, where to stay, and of course where to find the best beaches.

Here's How To Hike To Cala Napoletana In Sardinia

I've got another awesome beach in Sardinia for you today. It's got gorgeous baby blue water, a fun hike to get there, and that 'out in the wild' feeling. I mean that in the sense that it's not an overly commercialized beach with restaurants and beach umbrellas to rent. It's just a beach on a beautiful island. Here's a guide on how to hike to Cala Napoletana with options for two different trails to get there. One is straightforward and easy, and one is a little more adventurous so there's something for everyone.

Here Are My Favorite Places To Swim At Lago Di Garda

Need a place to go swimming but want something a little prettier than the Venice beaches? Here's a guide to some of my favorite places to swim at Lago di Garda. These are all based on being easy day trips from Vicenza, so they're focused on the eastern half of the lake. If you just want to get away from Vicenza for some sunshine and swimming, these are great options but of course if you want to drive a little further you could also drive to the other side of the lake.

How To Get To Cala Coticcio In Sardinia - READ THIS FIRST

Do you like electric blue water and a little adventure? Well you're going to love this one. Here's my guide on how to get to Cala Coticcio in Sardinia. I went here with my husband on our family holiday this year and just loved it. It's a little rugged and involves a hike to get there, but this guide will have you prepared to make the whole adventure run smoothly.

Cascate Del Silan Hike - A Complete Guide For Silan Falls In Vicenza

If you're sweltering in the summer heat, maybe a waterfall adventure is on the cards. The Cascate del Silan hike is a nearby one that's a perfect spot to cool off while still getting out and about. Here's a full hiking guide with everything you need to know to plan your day out.

What You Need To Know For The Tre Cime Hike And Caves

It's iconic, super photogenic, and makes for an awesome outdoor adventure in northern Italy. Here's a guide for the Tre Cime hike with everything you need to know to plan your hiking adventure. I've added a bunch of tips for doing the hike, visiting the caves, and added links to more hikes in the area so you'll be all set for a fun outing.

What To Expect While Touring A Local Olive Oil Factory In Italy

Welcome back to another episode of places to visit while you're in Italy. This one is an interesting one because I have used the products but never actually got my butt over to the factory to take a tour. Finally, last week, I ventured out on a little solo outing and I can't believe I didn't go sooner. Here's my guide on how to take a tour of an olive oil factory in Italy and what to expect when you're there.

Don't Miss This Dreamy Agriturismo In Saturnia, Tuscany

I don't know if it's the sunshine and blue skies, or the insanely gorgeous views, or maybe the wine, but there's something rejuvenating about a trip to Tuscany. Luckily for us, it's only not too far away and makes for a great 4-day weekend getaway. I just got back from another family weekend there to explore a new area of the region and I'm excited to share this dreamy agriturismo in Saturnia with you. Here's all the information you need to plan your own visit and, as always, if you have any questions just let me know.

All The Details About How To Visit The Saturnia Hot Springs In Tuscany

Picture this. Natural rock 'hot tubs' filled with bright blue thermal water and waterfalls cascading between them. Seems pretty sweet, right? Well, in the name of research, I went there and I'm here to bring you a real talk guide with everything you need to know about how to plan a visit to the Saturnia hot springs in Tuscany. AKA probably the most picturesque thermal pools ever.

Where To Find The Best Limoncello In Italy (And Tasting Tour Info)

What do we do when life throws us lemons? Make limoncello, right? Seems legit. In today's post, I'm happy to be able to share a fantastic local business where you can find the best limoncello in Italy. I'm talking high quality, pure limoncello from a family run business where you can also take a tasting tour and learn about the entire process. Here's all the information you need to book your visit which, in my opinion, is a must-do while you're living in Vicenza.

How To Visit The Sanctuary Of Madonna Della Corona In Verona

In my opinion, this is one of the more overhyped and overrated sights. *Waits to be struck down by lightning.* Still, it's cool to see and one of those things that is worth a quick visit if you are visiting or living in the area. Here's a guide on how to plan a visit to the Sanctuary Of Madonna Della Corona in Verona.

A Detailed Guide On How To Hike Cima Portule In Asiago

Mountain hike - check. Awesome views - check. Full-day adventure - check. Mountain cows - check. This hike has got it all. Here's a detailed guide on how to hike Cima Portule in Asiago with everything you need to know to plan your adventure. It's a popular hike that makes for a great day trip when you just want to get away from it all and climb a mountain. Everyone has those days, right?

How To Hike The Sentiero Monte Cengio In Asiago, Vicenza

A mountain hike, epic cliff views, WWI trenches, and tunnels - the Sentiero Monte Cengio has everything. It's a little tricky to write about because there are so many hikes in the area, options on how to get to the top of the mountain, and detours along the way. Much more than what I've listed in this guide. It's my intention to give you a few options, and then you at least have an idea of what to expect and a couple of ways of doing the hike but just know there is more out there.

How To Hike The Sentiero Del Forte Hike In Enego, Vicenza

When you stand on the Normandy beaches nowadays, it's hard to imagine a war going on somewhere that's seemingly so peaceful. Similarly, when you're in the gorgeous mountains of northern Italy, it's difficult to imagine a war going on there. It is, however, a historic part of the world where you can mix hiking and visiting old WWI sites. Here's a guide to the Sentiero del Forte hike, or the 'Path of the Fort' in English, to help you plan your hiking day out.

Calà Del Sasso - How To Hike The 4444 Steps In Asiago

No Stairmaster? No problem! If you're looking for a thigh-burning outdoor workout, this post is for you. Today I'm sharing a guide for hiking the historic 4444 steps in Asiago. That's right, four thousand steps. It's a great option for when you want to push yourself but also spend some time in nature and enjoy the gorgeous mountains in Vicenza.

A Complete Guide To The Ponte Avis Hiking Trail And Suspension Bridge

One of the cool things about living in Vicenza is the opportunity to hike in epic outdoor locations that are right in our backyard, and today's post is all about one of them. Here's a complete guide to the Ponte Avis hiking trail so that you'll be prepared for your outdoor adventure. It's an easy trail with a pretty epic suspension bridge that makes for something different to the usual hikes. I'm especially excited to be bringing you this one because it's been the first one since restrictions eased and I was so happy to be outdoors again. Hopefully, I'll have even more for you soon!

A Big List Of Things To Do In Vicenza And Surrounding Areas

It's almost time to move again and I'm feeling a bit reflective. So, today I'm sharing a big guide on things to do in Vicenza and the surrounding areas. You might remember I posted a guide to public transport friendly day trips from Vicenza, which is mostly places to visit when you first arrive and are settling in and waiting for your car to arrive. Today's post is filled with more options for easy day trips when you have your car and want to get out and explore your new home. Of course, this is not an exhaustive list because there is so much to do here, but if you're new or looking for things to do, I hope it can give you some ideas to get started on your adventures. I've also added a printable list version for your fridge to help you organize your bucket list.

A Complete Guide For The Croce Di Lumignano Hike in Vicenza

It's the year 2020BL (before lockdown), and with the travel restrictions in place, I decided to explore some hikes in the local area. That only lasted for one hike because the next day the countrywide lockdown began. So I'm super grateful that my pack leader, Coco Chanel, and I were able to head out for this outing. Here's a guide on how to hike the Croce di Lumignano trail in Vicenza which is a great one when you want to stay close but still get out for an active adventure. I hope to have some more local outings to share with you once things go back to normal.

Palazzino Fraccaroli - Exploring The Spooky Castle Of Spirits

Looking for an easy day trip this weekend? Palazzino Fraccaroli, or the Castle of Spirits, is a unique spot that makes for a nice outing on its own, or can easily be combined with other adventures in the area. It's also a great location for photos that are different from the usual vineyard or city backdrop. Here's a guide with what you need to know about planning a visit.

My Favorite Local Businesses In Vicenza That Will Make Your Life Better

UPDATED MAR 2020. If you're new to Vicenza, firstly welcome. Secondly, I know there's a lot to think about while you are settling in and getting everything organized, so I wanted to make it a little easier for you by sharing my list of favorite local businesses in Vicenza. Of course, over time you will find your own favorites, but I hope this can help get you started. If you have any questions or other suggestions, just leave them in the comments.

A Practical Guide On How To Hike The 52 Tunnels Trail In Italy

It's a popular hike and, when you see the views after you get above the clouds, it's easy to see why. Here's my guide on how to hike the 52 Tunnels trail in Italy to prepare you for the trail (and the leg workout that comes with it.)

Cinque Terre Itinerary And How To Plan A Weekend Visit

UPDATED MAR 2020. I'll be honest, visiting Cinque Terre was not high on my list of places to see. I thought it would be too crowded and probably lost whatever magic it once had due to overtourism, much like Venice and Milan. But, I had to find out for myself, so I planned a weekend away to see what it had to offer. With my low expectations, and the way I planned the trip, it actually surprised me and I had a fun weekend. Here's my Cinque Terre itinerary full of tips and recommendations to help you plan your visit.

Tramonti Di Sopra Nature Pool - The Off The Beaten Path Swimming Oasis

UPDATED MAR 2020. The Dolomites keep proving to me that no matter how many times you visit, there's always a new place to explore. A couple of weeks ago I packed lunch and visited the Tramonti di Sopra nature pool and it made for an awesome day trip. It's a little off the beaten path so it was a quiet, peaceful spot and the water was just gorgeous. In today's post, I'm sharing a guide on how to get there with all the tips you need to plan a fun day out.

How To Hike To Lago Di Sorapis - Detailed Guide And Tips

UPDATED MAR 2020. I recently hiked to Lago di Sorapis and, during the hike, I kept thinking 'man I hope the juice is worth the squeeze'. Let me tell you, the color of this gorgeous lake was absolutely worth the squeeze of some tired old knees. The natural beauty blew me away and the whole area looked like a painting. Here's a guide on how to hike to Lago di Sorapis in the Italian Dolomites using trail 215. I hope it can help you plan your adventure to this incredible lake.

PCS To Italy - Here's A Chunky Guide Of What To Expect

UPDATED MAR 2020. I'm not going to write too much of an intro because the post is long enough as it is, but here's my guide of tips for moving to Italy from America. It's chunky and full of opinions just like me. I'm just sharing a lot of the things you can expect when you move here. There's no sugar coating or judgment of what is 'good' or 'bad', just what 'is' and it's based on my experiences as an Aussie who has lived in both America and Italy and loves both. Hopefully, it can help people who are preparing to PCS to Italy.

Krampus Parade In Italy - Should You Go & Is He A Cotton-Headed Ninny-Muggins?

UPDATED MAR 2020. Since the fairytale-like Christmas markets tend to steal the spotlight, Krampus parades might not be at the top of your winter European holiday bucket list. You might be like me and had not even heard of it. Today, let's take a closer look at attending a Krampus parade in Italy. If you scare easily you can peek through one eye.

11 Underrated European Destinations That Need To Be On Your Radar

UPDATED FEB 2020. Planning a trip to Europe can be overwhelming. There are just so many countries to visit - sometimes it can feel like 'where do I even start?' We all know the heavy hitters like Venice, Paris, and London and, while they are all certainly worth a visit, there are also some lesser-known places that are worth adding to your itinerary if your schedule allows. Today I'm sharing 11 of my favorite underrated European destinations. At these destinations, you can avoid the tourist crowds, save a little money and still have memorable travel experiences. I've also added the links to my blog posts for each if you'd like more information or tips for a place.

Hikes In The Dolomites - 17 Day Trips You Don't Want To Miss

UPDATED MAR 2020. Have you heard of the Dolomites? This nature-filled area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is my favorite part about living in Italy. I love that you can explore just about anything from lakes, mountains, waterfalls, hikes, or snow adventures in winter. Here's a look at what's on offer with this guide to hikes in the Dolomites. I've added local and touristy, hikes, lakes, waterfalls, and scenic areas. So there's something for everyone.

Maximize Your Visit With This Guided Tour Of The Colosseum In Rome

UPDATED MAR 2020. Most of the time, people call me Katie. But for one sunny day in January, I was simply known as Gladiator! Ok, ok, I'll admit that maybe that was only in my head and maybe I've seen the movie Gladiator one too many times. Anyway, I had wanted to visit the Colosseum since I saw that movie. It was high on my bucket list and it's actually a little surprising that I have lived in Italy for a year and a half and still not seen it. I decided it was finally time to make it happen, so I took a day trip to Rome and joined a guided tour of the Colosseum with Walks of Italy. Here's how it went.

Stay In Milan With A Duomo View (Without Spending A Fortune)

UPDATED MAR 2020. We all know Milan. It's one of the most iconic cities in Italy. I'm sure it's not common that people visit this city specifically to watch WWE Wrestling, but that's exactly why I planned a visit recently. WWE was coming to town and I couldn't pass up the opportunity to go and see the show - I'm the girl who went to WrestleMania alone after all! While I was doing an accommodation search I assumed there would be no way I could afford to stay anywhere nice and/or close to the Duomo. I figured that would only be for those super glamorous fashion bloggers or people with a lot of money. I'm really happy to share that it is 100% possible to find a place to stay in Milan with a Duomo view and not spend a fortune and I am revealing all the details here today.

Reflecting On The 7 Different Ways Living In Italy Changed My Life

UPDATED MAR 2020. Moving to Italy is a dream for many, and one that I have been lucky enough to live. There are always a lot of changes that come with a new home and today I wanted to share some of the ways my living in Italy changed my life.

Pros And Cons Of Living In Italy: The Good, The Bad & The Great

UPDATED MAR 2020. I can't believe it was one year ago I boarded a plane at the Honolulu Airport and moved across the pond. My husband left soon after we got here - seems to be the pattern with my moves and military lifestyle. I remember the isolating feeling of sitting in my empty apartment. I had no money, no car, no job, no friends, and now no-one to talk to. To be honest, I wondered what the hell I had gotten myself into. Though I spent most of my time here alone, a lot has happened in my first year. I survived my first winter after always living in hot climates, I stumbled through communicating with a language barrier, I visited too many lakes and cities to count, and I ate ~~some~~ a lot of the most delicious pasta on the planet. Here are my one-year reflections on the pros and cons of living in Italy so far.

Don't Miss This Amazing Italian Cooking Class In Umbria

UPDATED MAR 2020. We all know that Italians are known for their amazing food, right? If in America people fight with each other over the color of their football jersey, in Italy they would fight over the ingredients in the perfect ragu. Cooking here isn't just a chore where you whip together something edible. There is a passion that is evident in each step of the cooking experience. From picking the ingredients to the cooking processes to stopping to sit and enjoy the meal. Today I am excited to share this post with you because I get to showcase a wonderful local business where you can experience an authentic Italian cooking class in Umbria.

Everything You Need To Know About Visiting The EPIC Torrente Canali

UPDATED MAR 2020. I've really loved being able to share a different side of Italy to what is usually shared in tourist magazines. Before moving here, I had only seen pictures of the main sights such as The Colosseum, The Leaning Tower of Pisa, The Grand Canal in Venice. I didn't know of the breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders that are here. Now I sure know that I will never run out of nature activities in north Italy. There is just so much to see and do and it truly is a nature lovers paradise. Today, I'm sharing a guide to Torrente Canali - an awesome turquoise pool in the mountains.

A Complete Visitor Guide For LAGO DI CAREZZA In Italy

UPDATED MAR 2020. If you have been following my blog for a little while, it should come as no shock to you guys that I'm a bit of a water baby. I love being in the water, on the water, and even just near the water listening to waves. Here in Italy, I have been very lucky to find some magnificent water spots in the form of lakes. They have quickly become some of my favorite places. In today's post, I am sharing one of these grand lakes with you and a bunch of tips to help you plan your own adventure out to Lago di Carezza.

7 Easy Day Trips From Vicenza Using Public Transport

UPDATED MAR 2020. Have you just moved to Vicenza? First of all, welcome! If you are stuck in the hotel without your car but want to start exploring the area, then this post is for you. Today's post is a guide of 7 public transport friendly day trips from Vicenza to get your adventures started ASAP. I think these are a great way to start your time in Italy because they give you a good foundation of the surrounding areas, as well as how to catch a bus and train, order food and other things like that. You'll be able to do these in the first couple of weekends here, then start branching out from there.

Everything You Need To Know About Hiking LAGO DI SENAIGA In Italy

UPDATED MAR 2020. Happy September everyone! Can you believe how fast the year has flown by? Today I want to share some photos of Lago Di Senaiga as well as a bunch of tips and tricks to help you plan your own adventure. This was one of the first hikes I did since moving to Italy and it really had a 'wow factor' for me. The thing I noticed though, was that it was hard to find good information on it when I was researching. So here's a complete guide to help you get there too and I hope it's helpful.

A Complete Guide On How To Hike Lago Di Corlo And Plan A Visit

UPDATED MAR 2020. The grandeur setting of Lago Di Corlo will leave you inspired and feeling very small. Nestled between lush mountains, the large lake oozes serenity making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy a picnic with friends. The day we visited was on a weekend and we saw plenty of groups of people and their pets scattered on the grass enjoying picnics together under the sun. Here's a look at Lago di Corlo to help you plan your own adventure day.

Where To Stay In Tuscany (To Live Your Under The Tuscan Sun Dreams)

UPDATED MAR 2020. When I say 'Tuscany' what comes to your mind? For me, it was all about the rolling hills, endless vineyards, sweeping countryside landscapes, good food, better wine, and sunflower fields. I had never been to Tuscany before so this imagery had made its way into my mind through movies like Under The Tuscan Sun and travel pictures. Sometimes destinations you have built up in your mind don't live up to the expectations, but I'm happy to say that Tuscany didn't disappoint. The farm stay accommodation I found was a huge reason for that. In today's post, I am sharing it with you in this post on where to stay in Tuscany. I hope it can help you plan your trip.

There's A Gnome Village In Asiago, Italy - Here's How To Plan Your Visit

UPDATED MAR 2020. I'm so excited to share my first official blog post showcasing a local experience here in Italy! To be honest, I had a few adventures to choose from since moving here. I chose this one because, quite simply, it was just a unique and fun experience. It's best suited for kids and families, but even I had a fun day exploring it and living in a magical world for the day. In today's post, I want to help you plan your own visit so let's take a closer look at the Gnome Village in Asiago.

Living In Vicenza, Italy - Here Are My First Impressions

UPDATED MAR 2020. Ciao from the new chapter of life in Italy. Before I get started, I want to say a HUGE thank you for bearing with me while the blog has been slow due to my current Internet drought. Seriously, the Internet desert is no bueno when you're trying to create posts. I am hoping that we can get that situation fixed soon so that I can get back to regular posts, hopefully, it's just a little longer. In today's post, I just wanted to talk about living in Vicenza and share my first impressions.

PCS From Hawaii To Italy - The Katie Show Blog Has Moved

UPDATED MAR 2020. Good morning friends! You may have seen on Instagram this week that The Katie Show Blog has now moved. What? Moved? Yes, that's right. I have just completed an overseas PCS from Hawaii to Italy. Here's an update on what's happened over the last few weeks and what to expect in the future.