Tag: UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE

Best Things to Do on a Long Weekend in Milan

Posted onAuthorRenata Green61 Comments

Of all Italian cities, Milan probably deems the least what we consider Italian. No jolly groups sipping Aperol Spritz while playing boccia. Instead, executives rush from their stately apartment houses to offices in glittering business centers. Hardly a narrow cobblestone alley. Rather big cars on broad avenues. Money makes the world Milan go round.

Piazza del Duomo - with the iconic cathedral.
Piazza del Duomo – with the iconic cathedral.

And yet, if you visit with an open mind, Milan will by no means disappoint: Get the big picture from the roof of the Duomo, and enjoy contemporary art at various industrial sites that were transformed into humongous art galleries. Window shop at the posh Brera district or the fabulous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Admire Leonardo da Vinci’s Cenacolo, hence, the Last Supper. Oh, talking ’bout food: Finish a long day of sightseeing with a relaxed Milanese Aperitivo in one of the countless bars alongside the Navigli, the city’s old waterways.
Sounds like a plan? Mind you, these are only a few of the best things you should do in Milan on a long weekend!

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ANTIGUA – What Not to Miss on a Grand Tour Around the Island

Posted onAuthorRenata4 Comments

Antigua is one of those Caribbean islands you don’t just visit. You experience its unique blend of relaxed celebration of joy and tropical nature with all your senses.
Surrounded by turquoise waters, its 365 beaches offer a different seaside experience every day of the year. But Antigua is much more than just a beachfront destination. Behind the idyllic sandy shores lies a vibrant culture that instantly feels like home – only under palm trees.
So come along and see for yourself what not to miss on a grand tour around the island.

View of Antigua from Shirley Heights Lookout.
View from legendary Shirley Heights Lookout.
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As Easy As ABC: Island Hopping Between ARUBA, BONAIRE, and CURACAO

Posted onAuthorRenata19 Comments

Turquoise waters and tropical fish, swaying palm trees, and pink flamingos – this is what you would expect on a Caribbean island. But where do the Flemish gable houses come from? And why are locals speaking Dutch on tropical islands just north of Venezuela?
Well, the history and fusion of different cultures are surely one of a kind on the so-called ABC islands. Hence, put on some sunscreen, grab your snorkel gear, and join me in my island hopping between Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao.

Couple on a jetty in Kralendijk in Bonaire, illustrating the post on Island Hopping between Aruba Bonaire, and Curacao.
Beauty in alphabetic order.
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CURACAO – Guide to the Caribbean Island That Has It All

Posted onAuthorRenata20 Comments

Let me guide you through Curacao, the Caribbean island that simply has it all: Idyllic coves and secluded beaches, a fascinating history, great contemporary art, amazing food, and a capital city that UNESCO put on the list of World Heritage.

Old Dutch houses in Curacao, The Caribbean Island That Has It All
Old Dutch houses and lots and lots of water – those two icons of the beautiful island of Curaçao.

But Curaçao has also some well-hidden gems that I’m introducing in this guide – and I promise that you will love all of them!

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The Best Places to Visit in SICILY in One Week

Posted onAuthorRenata Green2 Comments

Ma certo, one week is quite tight when it comes to a trip to Sicily, even if you limit your visit to the very best places. The island at the southern tip of mainland Italy has more to offer than you would find in many entire countries! Did you know that Sicily has seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites? These excellent locations are so different that there is something for everyone. Whether it is the ancient archaeological sites in Syracuse, the artistic mosaics of the Villa Romana del Casale near Armerina, the baroque center of Noto, or the Aeolian Islands – you will be amazed!

Palermo's Kalsa district
Palermo’s Kalsa district.

But in addition to these fantastic sites, you should, of course, also make time to laze on the beach in Taormina and enjoy a delicious aperitivo in the evening during the sunset. After all, the Dolce Vita is as much a part of Italy as pizza and pasta.
So that you don’t lose track of all these fantastic options, I have put together an itinerary for you with the best places that you should definitely visit in one week in Sicily.
If you have more time, even better – you won’t be bored for a second, believe me!

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SYRACUSE Unveiled: A Trip to the Ancient Wonders and Coastal Charms of Sicily

Posted onAuthorRenata Green2 Comments

In this post, I’m taking you on a trip to Syracuse to explore the ancient wonders and coastal charms of Sicily. However, this city on the island’s southeastern coast isn’t just for history buffs! Its markets burst with local flavors while its piazze under the Sicilian sun are perfect for leisure’n’pleasure. And as the sun slowly sets, bathing the historic buildings in a burning golden light, the coast of Syracuse unveils its radiant splendor, waiting for you with a dinner by the sea.

Piazza del Duomo on the Ortigia peninsula of Syracuse - not to miss on a day trip.
Piazza del Duomo on the Ortigia peninsula – probably the most iconic square in Syracuse.

Believe me: Few places can match Syracuse’s ability to captivate both mind and heart. It’s not just some destination. It’s an invitation to experience Italy’s legendary dolce vita at its most enchanting.
Syracuse is Sicily at its finest!

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One Day in CATANIA, Sicily’s Building Ground of Grand Palaces

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Although often overlooked and definitely underrated, Catania is a city full of beauty, history, and, on clear days, magnificent views of Mount Etna. In particular, the palaces constructed during the Baroque period after the city was rebuilt following the devastating earthquake of 1693 reflect the city’s rich architectural and cultural heritage. Although there is no generally accepted exact number, there are certainly around 50 notable palaces in and around the city.

Fontana dell’Amenano in Catania.
Waterbearer at the Fontana dell’Amenano, a Baroque fountain with mythical figures created by Tito Angelini.

Apart from the famous palaces such as the Palazzo Biscari, the Palazzo degli Elefanti, and the
Palazzo Minoriti, there are numerous smaller and lesser-known ones scattered throughout the city. Many of these are privately owned and have been converted for business purposes. That’s why, even as a self-proclaimed Poverty Jetsetter, I was able to spend a restful night in a real Italian Palazzo!
More about that – and all the other marvels of Catania – in this post.

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Best Things to Do in PALERMO

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Particularly in recent years, Sicily has developed from an insider tip into a holiday destination for aficionados of history, passionate nature lovers, but also the rich and famous – and not just since the second season of The White Lotus, which is set primarily in the incredibly picturesque town of Taormina. However, while places like Cefalú, San Vito Lo Capo, and obviously Taormina are groaning under the influx of visitors, life in the capital Palermo continues largely unaffected by this development. Actually, that’s not a bad thing. On a two-day visit, it allows you and me to experience the real, authentic Sicily from up close.

Chiesa di San Domenico in Palermo.
View of the Chiesa di San Domenico, the resting place of many significant figures in Palermo’s history, and the mountain range on the city’s outskirts.

Hence, in this post, I’ll show you the best things you definitely shouldn’t miss – even those that are a bit off the beaten path.

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From Clifftop Views to Gelato Scoops: A Guide to CEFALÙ

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On the picturesque north coast of Sicily, nestled between the emerald-green waves of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the imposing rock of La Rocca, lies the charming coastal town of Cefalù. However, Cefalù is far more than just a seaside resort.
While its golden sands and crystal-clear waters attract beach bums from all over the world every summer, a rich past lies hidden behind the postcard-perfect backdrop.
In fact, history, culture, and the Mediterranean dolce vita converge in a captivating fashion. Already from afar, the silhouette of the medieval old town is impressive, dominated by the majestic cathedral, which has watched over the labyrinth of narrow streets, colorful facades, and sun-drenched squares since the 12th century.

View of Cefalù.
The mesmerizing coast of Cefalù.
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