2019 is now officially over, thank goodness, and since this is the start of the New Year I thought I would share some of my top travel picks for 2020. Some are obvious choices, others a little more unexpected but all are amazing places to discover for one reason or another. Also, these are in NO PARTICULAR ORDER. I don’t want to see anyone complaining that one destination is ranked higher or lower than another one; they all have my love and admiration.

South Africa

It’s been a few years since South Africa has been the star
of travel media coverage, which is unfortunate. After making some incredible
headway in travel and tourism, the nation took some steps backward making
planning a trip there more challenging. What never changed are the many reasons
to visit, which is why I’ve included it on my 2020 travel list. With new
direct, non-stop options from the US and other points around the globe, getting
to South Africa is easier than ever, and once you’re there you’ll be spoiled
for choice. If you’re an urban explorer then cities like Johannesburg and Cape
Town won’t disappoint thanks to their unique histories, great places to eat
and, in Cape Town, the natural beauty that is found everywhere. It’s that
nature though which draws most first-time tourists to South Africa, and getting
out of the cities is absolutely essential for all visitors. The winelands are
amongst the oldest in the world, and new hotels and restaurants are constantly
popping up to cater to the oenologically minded. Safari however is arguably the
most popular natural experience to enjoy, and there are seemingly countless
ways to enjoy the country’s wildlife and at every budget level. South Africa
really is the total travel package and is a trip no one soon forgets.

National Parks

I feel as if I’m running the risk of talking about the
National Parks too much, but I can’t believe that would ever be possible. Very
accurately called America’s Best Idea, the 419 sites included in the National
Park Service system aren’t only unparalleled in the country, but the world.
Most people only consider the 61 major National Parks, but the entire system is
much more expansive and if you do some research you’ll probably realize that
there’s one closer to you than you may think.

Rovaniemi, Finland

For whatever reason, remote destinations fascinate me and I
love visiting them perhaps more than even the largest cities in the world. I
usually tend to visit Northern areas though when it’s cold outside, but cold
doesn’t even begin to describe the Arctic temperatures I found in Rovaniemi,
deep in Finnish Lapland. This huge region is mostly woods, lakes and streams,
but it’s also home to Santa Claus. In what can only be described as a brilliant
marketing move, years ago Rovaniemi lauded itself as the official home of Santa
Claus, a moniker that stuck. You should visit Rovaniemi not only to see Santa
Claus, but also to spend time outdoors whether it’s snowmobiling, mushing with
sled dogs or spending the night in a remote cabin learning about the Finnish
obsession with both sauna and nature.

Orlando, Florida

It may seem silly to include the most popular tourist
destination in the country on this list, but hear me out. Yes, the theme parks
have added many new and fun features, but Orlando is on this list for
everything there is to do outside of the parks. While visiting Orlando in 2019,
I had the opportunity to explore more of the city itself, and I found some
really lovely and fun spots everywhere I went. What might be most notable
though is its food scene – much more dynamic than one would think. Home to one
of the largest Vietnamese communities in the country, the opportunities to
enjoy authentic Vietnamese cuisine is nearly unparalleled in the country. More
than Southeast Asian delicacies though, many creative chefs have opened their
doors in recent years, creating what is a surprisingly varied, dynamic and
delicious foodie experience.

Juist, Germany

Most people don’t associate Germany with islands but, as I
learned this year there are some fairly incredible islands just off the coast
of Germany, including Juist. To be clear, Americans may be surprised to learn
about Germany’s islands, but they’ve been well known to European tourists for a
long time, and with good reason. Juist in particular is a remarkably special
place thanks in large part to the absence of any motorized vehicles That’s
right, motorized transportation is not allowed on Juist, which means that the
only way to get around is by bike, foot or horse-drawn carriage. Rather than be
an annoyance, it’s a wonderful way to slow down and truly connect with the
destination in a way that’s normally impossible to do. Add to that great food
and beautiful beaches and this is one vacation spot for your travel to-do list.

Emilia-Romagna, Italy

Italy is a perennial favorite destination for tourists from
around the world, but there’s a lot more to the country than the most popular
spots like Rome, Florence and Venice. One of my favorite regions is one that I
call quietly famous, Emilia-Romagna. Home to some of the world’s most favorite
foods, this is one of the best places to visit if you like to eat. Parma ham,
balsamic vinegar, parmesan cheese, lasagna, ragu sauce and much more all hail
from this region. There’s much more to enjoy than food though, including
learning about Emilia-Romagna’s impressive automotive history. Legendary
manufacturers like Lamborghini, Ferrari and Ducati can all be found here, also
offering unique tours options for visitors. If you’re like me though and enjoy
a nice city to explore, there are a few to include, most notably Bologna. The
largest city in the region, its history goes back to before the Romans and its
university has been one of the most important in Europe for centuries. Yes,
head to those famous cities in Italy but also be sure to explore other areas of
the country, like Emilia-Romagna.

Nevis

I was on Nevis to spend some time at the incredible Four
Seasons Nevis – as idyllic a retreat as one come hope for. I discovered a lot
more than a luxurious resort though, I very quickly became entranced by the
island itself. Although Nevis is not a large island, the landscapes do vary
widely but no matter where I found myself it was always beautiful. There are
plenty of spots throughout the US, Mexico and Caribbean if all you want is a
sunny beach. If you’re like me though and want an experience that feels unique,
personalized and even adventurous, then Nevis is one of the best options.
Thanks to the small size of both the island and the Four Seasons Resort Nevis,
nothing feels prepackaged or formulaic because, well, it’s not. This is not
your massive industrial-style resort experience, this is a calming and
restorative travel experience that is unlike many others in the Caribbean.

River Cruising

An equal opportunity traveler, I enjoy mixing up how I
experience the world, which is why I like the occasional cruise – including
river cruises – to see new to me spots. Unlike their ocean-going cousins, river
cruising is a much more individual and intimate experience. The ships are smaller,
with anywhere from 100-200 people on board, and the access to the towns and
cities along the rivers are much more convenient than deep-sea cruise ports.
The most popular river cruises are found along the waterways of Europe, but you
can find fun river cruises all around the world including in Egypt, Myanmar and
China.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong has sadly been in the news a lot lately for all
the wrong reasons. In spite of those images we’ve all seen on TV though, it
remains a fantastic destination to visit whether you have a day or a week. At
first blush, Hong Kong seems little more than a flashy city full of people. But
once you delve a little deeper, then you start to discover the real city that
lies just beneath that shiny veneer. The best way to better understand Hong
Kong is through the city’s favorite pastime, eating. Whether it’s 3-star
Michelin restaurants, or some of the best dim sum in the world, you won’t walk
away hungry or disappointed. Also be sure though to explore the city, visiting
Lantau Island and even the newish PMQ, a cultural hub showcasing some of the
best emerging creative minds in the city.

Machu Picchu

Let me just say straight up that no, I didn’t do the
four-day Inca Trail hike. I have massive problems with both my knees and spending
four days in pain and suffering was not high on my to-do list. No, instead I
visited the famous ancient city like thousands of others, by taking the luxury
train to the weird mountain town of Aguas Calientes and then a short bus ride
up to Machu Picchu itself. This new world wonder surprised me in a lot of ways,
most notably how beautiful almost every part of it is in person. All we tend to
see is that ONE iconic photo overlooking the long forgotten mountain outpost of
the Inca, but there’s so much more to it than that one angle. Spending a few
hours exploring it I developed an appreciation not only of how it looked, but
the skill it took to design and build. There are many fantastic Inca sites to
explore in Peru, but it’s really only at Machu Picchu that you begin to
understand the true genius of this sadly long lost civilization.

Game of Thrones in Northern Ireland

When I was planning my return to Ireland with Tourism
Ireland, there was one experience I knew that I didn’t want to miss, a day
living out my Game of Thrones fantasies in Northern Ireland. I’d seen photos of
the special tour for quite a while, but it wasn’t until I found myself in
County Down, Northern Ireland when I finally had the chance to participate. Winterfell
Tours offers a number of different ways to learn more about the Game of Thrones
filming locations, from spending a few hours at Winterfell, Castle Ward, to
exploring more sites around the county. Game of Thrones isn’t for everyone, I
get that. But this experience in Northern Ireland is so much more than visiting
spots where they filmed the fantasy series. It’s about learning the history of
the county and experiencing its gorgeous natural landscapes. If, along the way,
you happen to meet a direwolf and throw an ax, then all the better.

Portugal

My only regret with visiting Portugal is that it took me so
long to first visit what is an extraordinary destination. It’s not that I
avoided Portugal, far from it, but the stars just never aligned until I joined
a river cruise through the Douro River just a few weeks ago. To be clear,
Portugal is a very unique and distinct destination that is thankfully unlike
any other spot  in Europe. I think I
thought it would be like Spain, but that’s certainly not true. The people are
the nicest I’ve ever met in Europe, the food is incredible, the cities vibrant
and alive and the natural beauty incomparable. Whether you decide to take a
river cruise or explore on your own, just make sure to explore sooner rather
than later.

Canadian Maritimes

I have spent a fair amount of time exploring Canada and
almost never have I had a bad experience. But not all parts of the country get
equal attention by international tourists, which is one reason why I want to
highlight the provinces that comprise the Maritimes. Specifically, over the
last several years I’ve had the great opportunity to explore two Maritime
provinces, Newfoundland & Labrador and Nova Scotia. Made famous by the
ultra-luxury hotel on Fogo Island, Newfoundland has had its fair share of press
lately, but there’s so much more to the province than a nice hotel. Whether
it’s St. John’s or taking a coastal road trip, the scenery, food and people
will quickly endear you to the province. Many of those qualities aren’t endemic
to Newfoundland though, they’re part of the overall Maritime experience, as I
learned this year spending a week in Nova Scotia. Those same kind and very
curious people made the trip remarkable, accentuated by natural wonders like
the Bay of Fundy and a surprisingly high level of great food. So skip some of
the more flashy provinces and instead plan to spend some time along the
gorgeous Atlantic seaboard of Canada.

Golden Triangle

Ever since my first trip to Thailand many years ago, I have
truly loved this part of the world. Also traveling around Laos and Myanmar,
that love has only grown over the years and was expanded upon last year when I
visited the Chinese side of the Golden Triangle in Xishuangbanna or just Banna.
Thanks to its spot in extreme Southeastern China, Banna is completely unlike
any other spot in the country. Located adjacent to the Golden Triangle,
neighboring countries of Myanmar, Laos and Thailand are very close and, other
the years, that’s meant a fluid border with a lot of cross-cultural sharing.
Exploring more of the region, the buildings all look Thai, the smells are Thai
– everything about the place screamed Chiang Mai instead of China. It was an
odd sensation, one that I never expected but one that I dearly enjoyed.

Istria, Croatia

So much of the travel love in Croatia seems to go to
Dubrovnik, that I thought I should highlight a lesser-known area of the country
– Istria. This region found in the northwest portion of the country is as
unique an area as you can imagine. It’s actually shared by three countries,
Croatia, Slovenia and Italy, and has a rich history and culture all of its own.
In fact, if you ask residents where they’re from, they’re most likely to say
Istria first and Croatia second. There are many great towns and cities to visit
here, but two I recommend are Rovinj and Pula. Each city has its own unique
appeal and no matter what you do, make sure not leave Istria without sampling
some of the famous olive oils and truffles cultivated around the peninsula.

Extraterrestrial Highway, Nevada

Otherwise known as Nevada State Route 375, this is a 98-mile
stretch of road that starts at the intersection of U.S. 93 and the
Extraterrestrial Highway and continues west to the intersection of the Highway
and U.S. 6. Thanks to the fact that Area 51 rests along the highway, this area
has long been known for alien sightings and a fierce belief in life from other
worlds visiting the remote Nevada desert. Over the years the road has developed
into what it is today, one of the quirkiest but also one of the loneliest
stretches of road in the country. Visitors should go to admire the desert
landscapes, enjoy fantastic blueberry pie at the Little A’Le’Inn, visit (sort
of) Area 51, and spend the night at a haunted hotel in Tonopah, Nevada.

Egypt

I vacillated over whether or not to include Egypt, but I
think that it’s such an important country to visit it simply has to be on this
list. The first modern tourist destination, the wonders of Egypt have called to
travelers around the world for generations. And with good reason, the monuments
and sites so well preserved aren’t just nice to behold, they are world wonders
in every sense of the term. Traveling through Egypt, the entire experience from
Cairo to Aswan was much better than I had expected, but the real highlight of
course was visiting the Great Pyramids of Giza. Located close to modern day
Cairo, these massive monuments to power have been amazing visitors since the
moment they were first built, popping up even in Ancient Greek and Roman travel
guides of the day. Standing there immediately in front of them it was hard to
mentally reconcile the fact that I was actually there. Having seen them in
books, magazines and movies all of my life, it was hard to consider the fact
that I was there at that moment in time. Since tourism is so low right now,
there weren’t many other tourists around me, creating a special and rare moment
of privacy, allowing for some introspection and time to fully grasp the
importance of the moment.

Malta

The quirky island nation of Malta in the Mediterranean has a
long and important history, but it’s one not many people actually know a lot
about. Long considered by Europeans as a sunny getaway, others from around the
world are learning about this small country not just for its beaches and
turquoise blue waters, but also for its art, architecture, cities and
incredible history.

Non-Coastal America

I’ve explored a lot of my own country in recent years,
travel experiences that I didn’t know I needed. These trips though were perhaps
my most important of the year as they brought into focus the realities of the
US in 2019. As it turns out, things aren’t nearly as bad as those of us who
live along the coasts think and driving across America was one of the most
gratifying experiences of my life. While I have had the opportunity to visit
many different parts of the country, the most memorable adventure was driving
the entirety of Route 66. More than enjoying the kitschy appeal of decades long
past, the most important aspect of the drive was meeting new people along the
way. Turns out the country isn’t the seething cauldron of anger that the news
media would have us believe, far from it. No, instead I found people living
their lives just like anyone else, and also taking pride in the communities
they call home. It’s important I think for everyone, American or not, to leave
behind them the glittering cities along the coastal edges and instead delve
deeper into the US, to learn what really makes us tick and to have a lot of fun
along the way. Cleveland, Detroit, St. Louis, Oklahoma City, Albuquerque and
many other cities are all fantastic places to spend some time exploring, and
they’ll teach you more about what it means to be American along the way.

Antarctica

If any continent lures travelers with the promise of special
moments, it’s Antarctica. Hard to reach, hard to travel around it’s one of the
last few truly adventurous trips still available to us in the modern era. And
my own trip to Antarctica did indeed deliver those unique moments in spades.
Aside from the impossibly cute (and slightly dirty) penguins though, it’s the
seemingly impenetrable landscapes that impressed me the most. After hiking up a
snowy switchback path to the top of a hill, I was met with one of the most
impressive scenes I’ve ever witnessed. The icy waters extended into the horizon
and all I could see were vast quantities of rock, ice and water. It seemed to
go on forever and I have never felt smaller in my entire life. Standing there
on the bottom of the world, it was an important moment to help quantify the immensity
of the planet. It’s a fact that we modern travelers tend to forget. In an age
when I can hop on a nonstop flight and be in Hong Kong tomorrow, it seems as if
the world has never been smaller. But we forget just how massive this beautiful
planet is and how many unique experiences there are to be had.

The post 20 Places You Should Visit in 2020 appeared first on LandLopers.

There are many great culinary centers around the world; spots made famous either entirely or in part for their rich food history. My favorite though is without hesitation the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. Although not a place many Americans know about, they really should because it’s from the towns, cities and farms spread across the area where some of Italy’s, and the world’s, most famous dishes and ingredients all got their start. The complete list of delicacies that hail from here would, and have, comprise an entire book so today I want to instead share some of my favorite bites, all of which are easy to try on your own trip through Emilia-Romagna.

Balsamic Vinegar

My most recent trip to the Emilia-Romagna region was mostly focused on the food culture and to start things off I spent the afternoon at a winery and producer of Balsamic vinegar, Venturini Baldini. Balsamic vinegar is characterized by a rich, dark brown hue and dense, syrupy texture and is produced in Modena and the province of Reggio Emilia in Emilia-Romagna. Producers must use the skin, seeds, stems, and juice of freshly pressed grapes from Lambrusco, Trebbiano, and other grape varietals grown around Modena. They cook the mixture over low heat until it thickens and changes to a dark brown color. The sugar transforms to alcohol but is not ready for consumption for at least 12 years, with the best balsamic aged between 30 and 50 years with a sweet, almost caramel aroma giving way to a balanced acidic flavor containing a light tartness. There are few things better than an expertly crafted Balsamic, which really is a treat in its own right.

Lambrusco

Italy is of course famous for its wines, but while in Emilia-Romagna I was surprised to discover something a little unusual – Lambrusco. An ancient grape varietal, it has been grown in the region since Roman times but it wasn’t its age that surprised me, it’s the fact that it’s a sparkling red. I wasn’t at all familiar with chilled sparkling red wines before my last trip to Emilia-Romagna, but I quickly realized why it’s so popular. It’s the ideal offset to the types of meals served in the towns and cities in this part of Italy and towards the end of my trip I too was a fan of an expertly produced Lambrusco wine.

Parmigiano Reggiano

The king of cheeses, you can’t go far in Emilia-Romagna
without stumbling over this incredible bite, but for something a little extra
special I spent the morning with one of the producers of this hot commodity. Parmesan
cheese comes from the province of Parma. A distinguishing characteristic of the
cheese is a dark or light gold rind protecting the soft, velvety, or slightly
grainy texture of the cheese. The taste should be savory and delicate.
Parmesan’s texture is fully dependent upon the aging period. Dairy farmers use
pure cow’s milk taken from two milkings on the same day, one of which is
partially skimmed. A traditional wheel of Parmigiano Reggiano reaches 18 inches
in width, nine inches in height, and nearly 90 pounds in weight. The cheese
ages for up to three years, producing a very compact, grainy texture falling
under the category of hard Italian cheeses, and once you tase the differences
between the ages you’ll be hooked just like I was.

Culatello

I’m a little embarrassed to admit this, but before my most
recent trip I had never before heard of one of Italy’s great culinary treasures
– culatello. As it turns out, I’m not alone and this delicacy is routinely
called the best food no one has heard of. I spent the day with one of the great
producers of this incredible ham but to describe it here really won’t do it
justice. Culatello is a slowly cured boneless ham that is made from the best
muscle of the pig’s rump. It’s aged in dark and somewhat moldy cellars until it
reaches perfection. Nearly impossible to find in the US, you really have to
travel to Emilia-Romagna to try and appreciate this, the king of meats. Only
about 30,000 culatello hams are produced each year, so while it may be a little
pricey, it’s well worth it to try what is the best slice of meat I’ve ever had.

Pastas & Tortellini

You can’t go to Italy without trying pasta and, of course,
in Emilia-Romagna there are many endemic varieties. One of my favorites though
is the tortellini. Tortellini is delicate fresh pasta made from egg and flour
commonly stuffed with meats, cheeses, or vegetables. Tortellini pasta was
created in Bologna and has become ubiquitous in regional cuisine across Italy
prepared in a variety of ways, from light tomato sauce to heartier sauces using
cream, or vegetables as the base. One of the most popular dishes in
Emilia-Romagna is Tortellini en Brodo, a comfort food consisting of fresh
tortellini in chicken broth. 

Erbazzone

This was another new to me regional delicacy and while I’m
not normally a fan of anything green, I found myself quickly going back for
seconds and thirds. Erbazzone has become a gastronomic legacy highlighting the
savory flavors of spinach, chard, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, and pancetta
cooked with butter and lard as a rustic country-style tart. The dish is baked
and traditionally served hot or warm to enjoy the golden, flaky pastry. The
original recipe was fried in pork lard until dark, but many recipes vary from
customs based on the heritage of family recipes. The dish is more common in the
Reggio Emilia province in Emilia-Romagna and the provincial capital referred to
locally as Reggio.

Sauces

Once again, I suppose I shouldn’t have been surprised to
learn that two of my favorite sauces – and two of the most popular in the world
– also hail from Bologna and surrounding communities. Bolognese sauce or ragú
is the rich, hearty sauce from Bologna consisting of beef, pork, dry white
wine, meat broth, tomato paste, and vegetables. The sauce traditionally
accompanies tagliatelle pasta but is also used to dress lasagna or polenta.
Béchamel is a thick white sauce made from butter, flour, and milk.  The sauce often serves as a base for other
rich and hearty cream sauces used in Emilia-Romagna dishes like lasagna,
garganelli, and cannelloni.

It’s honestly very difficult to find a bad meal anywhere in Italy, but in Emilia-Romagna it’s impossible. Long known as the stomach of Italy, many of the classic Italian dishes loved around the world all got their start in this quietly humble province; traditions that are still going strong in the 21^st century. Even if you don’t have a food themed trip, you’ll soon learn as I did that any visit very quickly becomes a culinary pilgrimage.

This trip is a project managed by iambassador in partnership with Emilia-Romagna Tourism LandLopers maintains full editorial control of the content published on this site.

The post Exploring Emilia-Romagna, Italy in 7 Bites appeared first on LandLopers.

Home to such iconic Italian names like lasagna, balsamic vinegar, Ferrari and Fellini, this week we’re exploring the fascinating Emilia-Romagna region. Although you may not be familiar with the name of the region, you absolutely know about its cities, towns and products that are amongst the most famous in Italy. This week we learn more about my favorite part of the country.

You can listen to the podcast here on this page or on any of these services: iTunes, Google Play, Spotify, Stitcher.

In a country as diverse and amazing as Italy it’s hard to pick a favorite part, but for me it’s the Emilia- Romagna region. One of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited regions, the history here astounds me every time I visit. There’s a lot more to love though than just the past, including some of the world’s most famous dishes and luxury car brands that almost everyone has heard of. Months, if not years could be spent exploring the cities and towns of Emilia-Romagna, but in this week’s episode a true expert joins us to share what he loves to see and do in his home region.

Nicholas Montemaggi speaks fluent Italian, German and English, and is as well a passionate triathlete. Born and raised in Emilia Romagna he spent five years (2010-2015) at the local regional tourist office where he was responsible for Digital PR and International Online Media Relations. Since 2016 he is CMO of iambassador, a digital and influencer marketing agency in Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

The post ETW #40 Travel to Italy’s Amazing Emilia-Romagna Region appeared first on LandLopers.

I don’t normally make it the focus of my travels, if there’s an opportunity for me to visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site, I always make sure I stop. In 1972 the UN, through the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, began recognizing important sites around the world that they consider vital in order to maintain the cultural and natural heritage we have all inherited. Even though I haven’t even scratched the surface of visiting the more than 1,000 sites in every corner of the planet, I have been to quite a few and think every traveler should make a point to visit them if they can. To show the width and breadth of this amazing collection of sites, today I want to share some that while impressive, mostly fly under the tourism radar and hopefully in the process this list will encourage your own UNESCO themed visits in the future.

This year I’m working with Allianz Travel Insurance to share my thoughts about travel, what makes me happy when I explore the world and why I even travel in the first place. This post is done in partnership with them and I’m excited for the opportunity to share some fun spots to add to your travel bucket list.

The Jantar Mantar – India

The old town of Jaipur wasn’t just where my guide and I started the day, it’s where most tourists to this popular spot along the Golden Triangle begin. It’s here where the city’s most famous and important landmarks still stand, including the massive City Palace and the remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Jantar Mantar. This site fascinated me perhaps the most, due not only to its size but its purpose. The Jantar Mantar is a collection of 19 larger than life astronomical instruments built in the early 1700s, including the world’s largest stone sundial. These surprisingly precise instruments were built in order to best calculate the movement of the earth and the heavens, so that advisors to the ruler could provide the most accurate astrological advice possible. It’s a remarkable achievement, even more so that it remains intact today, practically adjacent to the equally fascinating City Palace.

Town of Bamberg – Germany

Maybe it was the bright sunshiny day, or maybe it was the city’s famous smoked beer, but whatever did it, I totally and completely fell in love with Bamberg. It probably sounds repetitive, but Bamberg too has an ancient history, and it too is recognized by UNESCO for its beauty and incredibly intact medieval old town. It’s also so colorful, much more so than I would have thought and with picture-perfect views along the river it was an afternoon I know I’ll never forget. The city’s Christmas markets of course only add to this festive feeling, from smaller ones around town to the massive central Christmas market in Maximiliansplatz.

Shark Bay – Australia

Located in the wilds of Western Australia, the Shark Bay UNESCO World Heritage region may seem remote, but it’s well worth the effort to visit this remarkable area. Located near the popular beach resort Monkey Mia, Shark Bay is a popular place to explore either on your own or on a Jeep Safari. The striking red sand meets the azure waters of the Indian Ocean in a contrast that will take your breath away, but that’s not why it’s on the UNESCO list. It’s there thanks to its incredible flora and fauna, but especially the stromatolites at Hamelin Bay. Stromatolites are the oldest life form on the planet and the only place on the earth accessible enough for people to visit these prehistoric creatures is in the Shark Bay region. Aside from the prehistoric beginnings to life on earth, it’s just a fun place to visit, spending a few days to explore as one of the few tourists around.

Sabbioneta – Italy

Not far from the bustling city of Mantua is a far different town, one that when I visited was oddly quiet but captivating thanks to the unique lines and angles of the architecture and public spaces. I was in Sabbioneta, an early example of urban planning from the 15th century. More fortress than town, Sabbioneta was built by the powerful Gonzagas and the thick city walls and ramparts are all still completely intact. It was more than the defenses that interested me though, the grid pattern of the streets and the impressive squares and monuments are all what drew my attention almost immediately. Meant to impress, the Duke’s palace, the theater, churches and more are all on a scale and designed with a level of beauty that may have been representative of the era, but which are rare to find today. I wouldn’t recommend spending a lot of time there, but if you’re in Mantua definitely spend an afternoon or even a day exploring the strange little town of Sabbioneta.

Cape Floral Region Protected Area – South Africa

One of my favorite countries in the world, the beauty of South Africa is diverse and even opulent at times. The areas near Cape Town though have a secret, the rich floral region is amongst the most diverse in the world. From the scraggly fynbos to the yearly explosion of wildflowers, the ecology here is unlike anything else on the planet. A fact to consider, this area accounts for just 0.5% of the area of Africa but is home to nearly 20% of the continent’s flora. That’s an amazing level of diversity and makes exploring this region a beautiful experience. One of the best ways to get out amongst the fields is by taking a wildflower safari like the one offered at the Grootbos Resort in Hermanus. Expert naturalists take guests out in a safari truck to experience the natural side of the area for a once in a lifetime experience. Even if you’re like me and have a marginal interest in such things, the shocking beauty of the region simply can’t be denied.

Rock Art of Alta – Norway

Located deep in the heart of Norway’s Arctic Circle, the small town of Alta is known for a lot of things, but not necessarily the site that put it on the UNESCO map. I was in Alta to see the Northern Lights, go sledding with huskies and a whole host of other wintertime activities. A pleasant bonus though was discovering the town’s not as famous but just as important rock art. The rock carvings in Alta go back as far as 4,200 BC and show a variety of scenes sharing the lives of ancient hunter-gatherers with us today. They were only discovered in the 1970s, but since then several of the sites have been converted into an open-air museum, preserving these prehistoric treasures for future generations. Sadly, I only got as far as the visitor’s center because during the winter the art is covered by snow. But during the summer months, thousands trek here to see the rock art and to explore the many hiking and biking trails around them.

Episcopal City of Albi – France

Located in the heart of the incredibly green rolling hills of the Tarn region of France, Albi is an absolute treasure. I’m a history fan, and I loved learning more about the tragic history of the Cathars, which culminated in and around Albi more than eight hundred years ago. But on the lighter side, Albi was also the birthplace of Toulouse-Lautrec, the famed French artist of the 19th century. The Toulouse-Lautrec museum conveniently located in the heart of Albi has just been renovated and it is a masterpiece of modern design and museum management. I truly enjoyed roaming the galleries admiring the impressive display of Toulouse-Lautrec works. No matter what you decide to do in Albi, I know you’ll enjoy wandering its streets as much as I did.

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Earlier this year, my partner and I took a slightly unusual trip. Spurred on by a TV documentary we watched by pure chance, we booked the cruiseferry highlighted on the show unsure of what we had gotten ourselves into. Sailing from Denmark to Iceland, via the Faroe Islands, and back, the week was fun, interesting and certainly an experience I’ll never forget. Today I want to share my experiences visiting the home country for the cruiseferry, the Faroe Islands. These small bits of land in the North Atlantic have become increasingly popular among travelers in recent years and I was excited for my first visit to this purportedly picturesque nation. I wasn’t disappointed; my time spent in the Faroe Islands was just as fascinating as I had hoped, which is why today I want to share what those experiences were really like.

Getting there – Smyril Line

A cruiseferry, including the ship on which I sailed – Norröna – combines features of both a traditional ferry service and a cruise ship. In this case the Norröna, which is operated by the Smyril Line, operates every week between Denmark, the Faroe Islands, Iceland and then back again. The schedule is always the same and it provides a very real service, especially to Faroese companies who need to ship goods to and from the islands. But it’s unlike any other ferry I’ve seen, because it’s also a fully functioning cruise ship. Able to accommodate more than 1,400 people, throughout the year tourists board the ship either as a simple conveyance or to enjoy a full week at sea, experiencing the North Atlantic in a very unusual way. This isn’t your typical cruise ship though, not even close. Leave behind those images of waterslides and enrichment activities, and instead replace it with a more bare bones version of the modern leisure cruise.

Two Chances in the Faroe Islands

One of the most surprising inclusions on our cruise were the incredible excursions at each port of call. Daylong, immersive and fun experiences were included in the price of our fare, and in the Faroe Islands that meant two different opportunities to explore this beautiful part of the world.

The first tour of the trip started in the capital city of Torshavn. The Vikings first established their island parliament here in the 9^th century, and ever since this sleepy city has been the center of life on the Faroe Islands. Home to about half of the Islands’ 50,000 people, it’s not only the most important city in the Faroe Islands, it’s one of the most striking as well. Our local guide was a character, and his unique perspective on Torshavn and the entire country truly made the experience much more special than it might have otherwise been. Walking around the city center, he shared the history of the city, but also personal stories and remembrances of his long life there. I was a little surprised by how much I liked Torshavn, the small homes and turf-covered buildings all added to the other-worldliness of my time there. But it was only the start of a long day exploring this remote country.

After Torshavn, we boarded a bus to visit a small town along the coast, Kirkjubøur. This small village on the southwest coast of Streymoy offers a stunning view of two neighboring islands, Hestur and Koltur. In the Middle Ages it was home to the Faroese Episcopal See, making this unlikely spot the spiritual and cultural hub of the Faroe Islands. Today only a few buildings make up this historic spot, and we spent the rest of the day exploring not only the village, but the rocky coastline as well. Stave homes (including the world’s oldest inhabited wooden house) the ruins of an old cathedral and a modern church were the official highlights, but for me just being there was the real thrill. I’ve been traveling to Iceland for several years now and I experienced that same sense of wonder and adventure in the Faroe Islands as I do in Iceland. I love visiting remote spots around the world, but especially in the North Atlantic where the people are kind and the views incredible.

Following a two-day stop in Iceland, we sailed back towards Denmark and spent another day in the Faroe Islands. Rather than repeat the first excursion, a completely new experience was offered to the guests and I couldn’t wait for the day to start. The drive to the village of Gjogv was just as enjoyable as the visit itself. The geology and physical immensity of the Faroe Islands is unlike any other place I’ve been, and spending 45 minutes or so on the road admiring that harsh yet stunning scenery was as important a part of the day as anything else I did. But the highlight of course was the romantic town of Gjogv. A popular summer weekend spot for the Faroese, Gjogv is best known for its picturesque scenery dotted with colorful old homes and a natural harbor protected by a massive gorge, which is what the name Gjogv translates to in English.

After enjoying some cake at a local guesthouse, I went out to wander around the town, seeing what I could discover. While small, there’s a lot to love in Gjogv and I quickly found myself getting lost in its beauty, both man made and natural. I soon understood why it’s a popular getaway destination for locals, there’s just something undeniably special about this unlikely town on the edge of the world.

And that’s really what visiting the Faroe Islands felt like; experiencing life on the fringes. The country is remote and there are only a couple of different ways to get there, which means tourism has thankfully been slow to develop. While it has similar cultural and natural highlights to Iceland, not nearly as many people visit, which allows tourists like me the opportunity to see more of what really makes it tick. It was also just a fun experience, and in travel sometimes that’s enough.

Sailing around the North Atlantic aboard a cruiseferry was an unusual trip for me, but one I’m so thankful I booked. The experience was unlike any other and allowed me the unique opportunity to see parts of the North Atlantic not commonly admired, all from the very special vantage point of being on the water.

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Although I’ve been to Europe on many occasions and have been fortunate enough to explore many different corners of the continent, there remain some places – entire countries – that I have somehow missed. Denmark was one of those countries, which is one reason why I decided to start my vacation in the capital city of Copenhagen. To be honest, I was certain I would like Copenhagen before I visited, but what I didn’t realize was just how much I would enjoy my time there. In this first post of many about my time in Denmark, I want to share some initial thoughts and observations about spending time in Copenhagen.

Hygge

A surprisingly difficult term to define, hygge in large part came to define my time in Copenhagen. Hygge is many things; it’s a feeling of coziness, contentment and being at peace. Enjoying a picnic with friends in the park can be hygge, but so can a well-designed row of townhouses. It’s easier to experience than to define, which is one reason why I was happy that I actually booked a hygge tour. For a few hours, we were led around central Copenhagen learning more about the city’s history, but more importantly Danish culture and how central a role hygge plays in everyday life. From cozy coffee shops to colorful streets, hygge was better shown to us than explained, and the perfect jumping off point to launch our own Danish adventures.

Easy to Explore

What I didn’t know about Copenhagen before I visited was just how easy it is to explore on foot. The city center is very compact and everything I wanted to see and do was within easy walking distance. Sure, they have public transportation, but honestly I only used it to get to/from the airport. That being said, since Copenhagen is on the water, the first thing I did was join an hour-long sightseeing boat cruise. While it may seem like one of those hokey tourist activities, which it kind of is, I also think it’s a fantastic way for any first-time visitor to better understand the city very quickly. There are a number of different ways to enjoy Copenhagen from the water, and there were different companies listed with the Copenhagen Card we used throughout the trip, but ultimately I opted for the 1-hour overview that took us from the docks downtown to colorful Nyhavn and even out to see some of the newly reimagined neighborhoods across the water. It was a fun way to try to combat some of that first-day jet lag exhaustion.

Tivoli Gardens

Tivoli Gardens played such an unexpectedly important role in my trip to Copenhagen that I just had to include the world’s 2nd oldest amusement park on this list. Opened in 1843, the fact that it’s not only still around but it that it’s still incredibly popular is what amazed me the most. More than 4.5 million people visited Tivoli just last year, thanks to its location within the city center and the fact that the park offers new and really fun rides. Walt Disney himself was inspired after a visit to the park, and many elements of Tivoli are echoed throughout Disneyland. I spent a lot of time in Tivoli not only because it was fun, but thanks to my hotel – The Nimb. Routinely named one of the best hotels in the world, its location adjacent to the park ensures unique access and experiences available only to guests. Complimentary entry and unlimited ride passes offered by the Nimb meant I could come and go as I pleased – a perk I made great use of. I think though that I loved Tivoli so much thanks to its own inherent beauty. Embracing nature and its location, it felt like being in a lavish garden instead of a small city amusement park, a unique experience for sure and it’s probably for that reason more than anything else that has kept it such a popular place to enjoy.

So Much More to Say…

This post is an extremely cursory overview and, almost more than anything else, has been a way for me to wrap my head around Copenhagen and start to dissect those individuals elements I enjoyed the most. However, in so doing, I’m missing something bigger. More than the people or fun activities, it was Copenhagen as a whole that appealed to me so very much. It was all of these discrete aspects, plus many more, that all contributed to my enjoyment of the city. It was my first bite into an open-faced sandwich just as much as it was a rollercoaster in Tivoli. They came together to synthesize what can be rare in the travel experience, a perfect trip. I can’t say that others will enjoy Copenhagen as much as I did, but I also can’t imagine anyone walking away from the experience without a smile on their face and many fond memories.

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For my first visit to Copenhagen, I knew I wanted the experience to be special. Since it was also my first vacation in a long time, I felt added pressure to make sure every detail was perfect. A big part of the perfect trip for me is always rooted in the hotel, and in Copenhagen I made the best choice possible when I booked a room at the incomparable Nimb Hotel. I wish I could say that it was a brilliant decision on my part, and while it sort of was I also didn’t fully understand the importance of the Nimb until I spent a few days there. I now have a go-to hotel in Copenhagen and today I want to share why it was such a special experience for me.

Historic Flair

Tivoli Gardens first opened in 1843, making it the 2^nd oldest amusement park in the world and a fixture in Copenhagen for generations. Located in Tivoli, the building that is now the Nimb Hotel has also been an important landmark, its Moorish design instantly recognizable. Originally a bazaar with arts and crafts, it was also home to one of the city’s most popular restaurants, run by Wilhelm and Louise Nimb. The Nimbs were the first to feature what is now Copenhagen’s signature dish, an open-faced sandwich on rye bread, and over the years the establishment became more and more entrenched into the lives of not only locals, but visitors as well. Since then this remarkable building has undergone many changes and lived many lives, morphing into what it is today, one of the world’s most remarkable luxury hotels. A member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World collection, as soon as I entered the fantasy world of Nimb and Tivoli I was immediately entranced.

With just 38 rooms, the Nimb Hotel is about as intimate as you can get, and that feeling of exclusivity radiates in every corner of the property, but especially in the guest rooms. As soon as I walked into my room I knew I was in for a treat. It’s important for the Nimb to stay true to their roots and honor the design that guests have come to expect over the years, but they do so with classic Danish flair and a quiet type of modern design. Each room features a four-poster bed, fireplace, views of Tivoli, luxurious bedding and bath products and so much more. Every detail is seen to in a way that only truly great luxury hotels can manage. For three nights this was my haven while exploring Copenhagen, and I couldn’t have selected a better sanctuary.

Since food is at the heart of the Nimb Hotel story, it shouldn’t come as a surprise then to learn that it’s still an important aspect to the experience today. With several restaurants both inside the hotel and in Tivoli Gardens, the Nimb is staying true to its roots by offering some of the best food in town. Starting my mornings at the refined yet casual Nimb Brasserie soon became a favorite part of the day, the expertly crafted dishes as beautiful as they were delicious. Whether it’s a great steak or a casual drink with friends, there are several options throughout Nimb for just about any occasion. Given my sweet tooth though, I was especially excited to enjoy an afternoon snack at Cakenhagen, located inside Tivoli. Featuring small cakes, cookies and other dessert fantasies, it’s the perfect spot to unwind or just catch up with friends.

Location, Location, Location

A key reason why staying at the Nimb Hotel was so important was thanks to its incredible location. When Tivoli was built in the 19^th century, this area was outside the center city, but today it’s at the heart of the Copenhagen experience. Literally across the street from the main train station, getting to the Nimb couldn’t be easier, with quick and convenient trains to/from the airport running every 15-minutes or so throughout the day. Once there, it’s an easy walk to the city’s main tourist attractions from the colorful Nyhavn to the city’s palaces and more. Even better, it’s adjacent to Tivoli Gardens, making this fun amusement park an important aspect of any stay.

Tivoli Gardens

I honestly never expected Tivoli to be as important to my trip as it was, but by the time I left Copenhagen it was one of my favorite spots. Always intended to be a relaxing escape for the city’s citizens, it has been thoughtfully updated and modernized throughout the years but still preserves the old-fashioned features that have endeared it to millions. You can ride a state of the art looping roller coaster, but then you can sit under a flowering dogwood as you admire the pond. It’s a mix of old and new and it completely won me over. Strolling around the easy to manage park, I also understood how it influenced Walt Disney. He visited Tivoli and it greatly affected how he designed Disneyland. Comparing the two, I see visions of Tivoli in Disneyland, from the pastoral feel to the attention to detail that has defined both parks. There was also an unexpected perk to staying at the Nimb Hotel. Adjacent to Tivoli, the Hotel offers the best access and even provides its guests with both complimentary admission and a pass to ride as many rides as they want. I made full use of these passes and found myself spending at least a little time in Tivoli every day. Nimb guests also enjoy incredible access to special events at the park, such as their summer music series. I was there for one such performance, enjoying a vantage point for the concert that the thousands of attendees would have loved to enjoy. Yes, Tivoli is an important aspect of any Nimb experience, and I think that is a big reason why I enjoyed my visit so very much.

True Hospitality

While I love the extra touches I find at great hotels, ultimately what makes a luxury experience aren’t the pillows, it’s the service. Throughout my stay at the Nimb Hotel, it was this kind and warm-hearted hospitality that defined my experience. It was more than just smiles and quick responses to requests, it was a genuine caring for my well-being. One morning I went to the front desk to ask where I could find the closest pharmacy; I had forgotten something I needed. Once I received the directions I was walking away to head back to my room when the staff member asked, “But I could go for you if you want.” I’ve never had a hotel staff member volunteer to help me with an errand and it immediately struck a chord. Naturally, I didn’t take him up on his kind offer, but it meant a lot and stuck with me. That’s what I mean by hospitality, it’s something that is nearly impossible to teach, it just has to exist.

I knew I would love my time in Copenhagen before I left home, I just didn’t realize how much. The city and I clicked almost immediately, and I have to think that the Nimb Hotel played a big role in that relationship. Where we stay matters and selecting the perfect hotel, for me at least, is an important aspect of any trip. In Copenhagen I can’t imagine a better experience than including the Nimb Hotel in one’s plans.

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Until just a few months ago, my opinion on Rome was fairly muted. I had only visited once before and that was for 1 day many years ago. Somehow I had missed returning until late last year when, in the span of just a couple of months, I found myself in the Eternal City not once, but twice. In the process, I discovered a city that I very quickly fell in love with, from its delicious food to the inviting plazas and of course the history found around every corner. Those trips quickly erased years of travel neglect and instilled in me a very sudden, but deep love of Rome. There’s naturally a lot to see and do in the city and any number of ways to connect with Rome on a deeper level, but for me these experiences were the catalyst into what is now an enduring love and admiration for this remarkable city.

Eating everything

Rome is truly one of the great food capitals of the world and it’s hard to go wrong no matter what your culinary interests may be. That being said, there are some easy ways to discover new foods and neighborhoods by taking an engaging food tour. Over the last couple of trips to Rome I’ve had the great pleasure to take two food tours, both fun and delicious but also very different from one another. Eating Europe is a food-focused food tour company that I have come to depend on whenever I’m in Europe and in Rome that meant spending a morning exploring the Trastevere neighborhood with a local resident. For hours we meandered around this hip neighborhood, one I had never before visited, learning about its history and enjoying those snacks and meals important to the people who live there. From gelato and pasta to more local favorites, the morning spent with them was full of laughter and fun moments. Following my Viking cruise I was in Rome jut a few days before Christmas and so decided to join a tour with another company I love to work with, Context Travel. Famous for offering thoughtful and offbeat walking tours around the world, in Rome I decided to hop on their seasonal holiday food tour. Led by a local chef and food writer, she spent the morning taking us to some of Rome’s best kept foodie secrets to sample those delicacies most important around the holidays. Cakes and chocolates, sandwiches and pizza and of course gelato all played a role but, more importantly, I learned a lot about the holiday traditions of the city and how local Romans celebrate the season. No matter what you decide to eat in Rome, be sure to get out there and be adventurous, exploring new neighborhoods and finding your own perfect bites.

Luxury digs

There’s no shortage of great hotels in Rome but on my most recent visit I decided to stay at a newer arrival on the luxury hotel scene, the Aleph Rome Hotel. Part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, the Aleph is a boutique luxury hotel in the heart of the city. Its amazing location along the Via di San Basilio makes it the perfect home base no matter your interests in the city. Housed in a former bank, the hotel fully embraces the building’s long history with a revamped design that echoes the era of Gatsby and flappers. Intricate art deco design radiates throughout the hotel, from the exquisite public spaces to the immaculate rooms that are very much a haven away from the hectic city. Also featuring great food options and a relaxing rooftop lounge and restaurant, there’s no doubt that the Aleph isn’t just destined to be one of the city’s next great hotels, but that it’s the ideal location to call home as you explore the city.

Going underground

Rome offers dozens of opportunities to explore centuries past underground from the Vatican to the Piazza Navona. For the last couple of thousand years, Romans simply incorporated or built on top of older buildings, which means entire cities exist just a few feet below the surface. Exploring the city is akin is exploring an archeological dig site and there are several ways you can learn more about the city’s ancient past in fun and engaging ways. One of my favorite underground adventures was below one of my favorite modern sites, the Piazza Navona. An archeological site open to the public shows what used to be on this very spot, a massive Roman stadium. In fact, the horseshoe shape of the Piazza is the exact outline of the stadium, a fact lost to history literally for centuries. That’s one thing I love most about Rome, it tells the history of Western civilization in a way no other city can, all in a setting that is undeniably gorgeous.

Another popular spot that is both below and above ground is an easy walk from Tiber Island and a gorgeous place to explore on a bright sunny day – the Theatre of Marcellus. Julius Caesar originally planned the building, but he died before it could be built. Eventually it was finished in 12 BC and quickly became the most important theater in Ancient Rome. Holding 20,000 spectators, the shows may have been what drew the masses, but today it’s an incredible example of Roman architecture. Over the years it slowly crumbled into oblivion, with businesses taking up shop in the bottom and apartments created in the attic section. In fact, people still live in those apartments, believe it or not. With views of the Capitoline Hill and all the impressive monuments, I can only imagine what it must be like to call this place home. Of course, it’s also pretty amazing to live in a 2,000 year old Roman theater, just one of thousands of little marvels found throughout the city.

Aimless wandering

When asked about favorite places, I always say that Paris is my favorite city, and it is. But many of the reasons why I love Paris so much are also found in Rome, a fact that frankly surprised me. Not every city has an aura surrounding it and it’s not necessarily a result of age or interest. London, for example, lacks this unique quality, but both Paris and Rome have it in spades. They have a certain look and feel, cities well varnished by time and millions of residents over the centuries. Rome in particular has kept true to itself over the millennium, absorbing past generations instead of replacing them altogether. The net effect is a city that bears the imprint of those many years, a city that is fun to wander around aimlessly because you honestly never know what you’re going to find. Yes, I enjoyed hanging out in the Piazza Navona with gelato in hand, but I equally enjoyed walking around neighborhoods that remain nameless to me, just admiring the atmosphere and what it was like to be present in the moment. Sitting outside with friends enjoying a meal, lifting a glass of Prosecco in a silent cheer to a golden sunset, getting delightfully lost down a seemingly endless array of side streets; these are my favorite moments in Rome, much more than seeing the Sistine Chapel or trekking up the Spanish steps. Those private, independent moments are what endear us to new places, it’s why we travel and my visits to Rome reminded me once again of their importance.

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Last year, I had the somewhat unique opportunity to join two very different Mediterranean cruises; one with Azamara Club Cruises and the other with Viking Ocean. Both started in Barcelona and ended in Rome, but many of the ports of call and certainly the experiences were very different from one another. One of the commonalities though was spending time at the Tuscan cruise port in Livorno. It’s from this base where cruises launch excursions to visit the broader Tuscany region but especially Florence and Pisa. On both cruises I spent time in Pisa, although on different excursion styles and so, oddly enough, I have spent nearly a full day exploring what is ultimately a very small place. Along with thousands of other tourists I stood there in front of that famous leaning tower, taking silly photos, paying for over-priced espresso and enjoying the day. But I learned a couple of things on those visits, lessons I want to share today.

Pisa is so much more than the Tower

The Piazza dei Miracoli or Square of Miracles is so called because the three main buildings have long been considered architectural marvels or miracles. Just think about it for a second, the cathedral, baptistery and tower or campanile were built between the 11th and 14th centuries. That wasn’t a great time to be alive in Western Europe and these gleaming wonders must have seemed positively otherworldly. And they still are really. Sure people visit to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa and create terrible photos of themselves pretending to hold it up, but I find it hard to believe visitors don’t walk away entranced. From the perfectly manicured lawns to the style and symmetry of the buildings themselves, the eye is constantly attracted to new and wondrous sights.

It’s ok to be a corny tourist sometimes

I’ve said this before, I’m saying this now and I will most likely say it again – don’t be afraid to be a corny tourist. None of us are Anthony Bourdain or Rick Steves and we shouldn’t try to be. We’re on vacation, traveling and we need to make sure we enjoy the experience. This means that it is in fact OK to be a camera toting, crepe eating, attraction visiting tourist. Don’t let the hipsters and egocentric travelers tell you to always get off the beaten path and to only go local. Sure, this is good once in a while as I have written about, but on the whole don’t be afraid to embrace your inner tourist. There’s a reason why everyone who visits Paris goes to the Eiffel Tower, in London Westminster Abbey and in Rome the Forum. They’re awesome! They have always been awesome, they will always be awesome and you should see them. So ignore those nay-sayers and instead go, see the famous sites and enjoy yourself, especially when visiting a place like Pisa.

Let’s be clear, there is one thing of tourist interest in Pisa, it’s Miracle Square and that’s it. Even taking a guided tour, it doesn’t take very long to experience everything and in the process you will be one of those very corny tourists. There is no cool or avant-garde way to see Pisa and that’s fine. It’s ok to go, take those silly photos holding up the tower and head off to somewhere else. Pisa encapsulates the fun side of travel, and sometimes that’s enough.

How you visit is important

While Miracle Square isn’t large and it is crawling with fellow tourists, the two excursions I took to Pisa couldn’t have been more different in how I experienced this UNESCO World Heritage Site. To be clear, it’s not a slight against either cruise line, no, instead it’s about how I personally decided to experience Pisa. When presented with a variety of different tour options, when I sailed with Azamara I joined the On Your Own Florence and Pisa tour. A day out and about, guests are first transported to Florence, given a brief tour of the highlights before being set loose for some independent exploration. I much prefer doing things on my own and the tour was a great option. In Pisa we were once again left on our own, but here the experience really needs a tour guide to get the most out of the day. I realized that fact while on the Viking included tour of Pisa that provided us with a guided tour of the baptistery and cathedral. Thanks to that local expert, I learned a lot about the site, why it was built and why it’s so important. Pisa is about much more than a certain leaning tower, and the guide really emphasized that fact to me. Either way, I was able to enjoy what is a truly beautiful place and, luckily, on both visits I also experienced near perfect weather.

No matter how you decide to visit Pisa, Italy, visit you must. Although it’s corny, over-touristed, overpriced and a little hectic, there’s a reason for all of this – it’s a fun place to see in person. It’s ok to give in and be that uber-tourist sometimes. It’s the only way we get to experience some of the most famous places in the world that have become popular thanks to their inherent beauty and brilliance.

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