Tucked away almost in the middle of nowhere exists a restaurant so charming and so lovely that you’re happy it’s almost a secret. Walking into Trattoria Montepaolo in Dovadola, Italy, you’re transported to another time–a simpler and rustic era. The views of the rolling green hills invite you in, the Victorian-era-meets-farmhouse decor welcomes you, and
CANADA
Five Romantic Places You Shouldn’t Visit When You’re Single (And Bitter About It)
Let’s face it—sometimes being single can be a totally awesome thing. Like those times when you don’t feel like showering for two days or leaving your couch because you’re glued to a crappy crime show marathon on TV. Or, you know, like when you decide you want to quit your job, put everything you own
Continue Reading
ITALY
Buongiorno, Venezia: 24 Hours in Venice
Venice is one of those cities that it seems people either love or hate–there isn’t much in between. And after just 24 hours in Venice, I totally fall in the “love” camp.
Continue Reading
CANADA
My Favorite 2013 Travel Moments
It’s almost the new year, and while I look forward to the adventures and self-discovery that 2014 will bring, I think it’s also a good time to reflect back on 2013. I can’t say that 2013 was an especially good year for me, all things considered. The first six or so months were some of
Continue Reading
ITALY
Making Wine (And Friends) At AltaVita
“In Italy, we drink to eat. In other countries, they drink to get drunk,” says Alessandro, one of the founding brothers of Altavita winery, as he pours us each a glass of red wine to complement the perfectly prepared meal laid out in front of us on a warm afternoon at Rocca Malatestiana in Cesena, Italy.
Continue Reading
CZECH REPUBLIC
Mission Complete: Three Months of Full-Time Travel
Well, my first three months of travel are over! And as you read this, I am en route back to the States, where I will spend just over a month catching my breath, hopefully making some money, seeing my friends and family, and kissing the shit out of my dog. But don’t worry–I’ll also be
Continue Reading
ITALY
Moment in Time: Italian Expressions
In a train car traveling en route from Camogli to Bologna via Milan, Italy, I’m trying to concentrate on reading Forty Rules of Love. I’ve read and re-read the same paragraph a couple of times, unable to stay focused. All I can hear are the sounds surrounding me: computer keys clicking as Cindy types; a
Continue Reading
FOODIE FRIDAY
Foodie Friday: Chuflay Bar & Restaurant
The small seaside town of Portofino, Italy has a number of restaurants begging tourists to visit them, but Chuflay Bar & Restaurant at the Hotel Splendido Mare doesn’t need to beg–instead, it woos its patrons. Chuflay, which got its name years ago from shooing flies away from the gorgeous food, is in a fantastic location–right
Continue Reading
ITALY
Photo Essay: Portofino and Camogli
When you think about Italy, what images are conjured up? For me, the first thought is always bright buildings, laundry lines, beautiful harbors filled with boats, dramatic hills with huge estates, and Italians going about their everyday lives.