April 18, 2026
The Vesuvio Panoramic Restaurant at Hotel Mediterraneo Sorrento took part in the ninth Ischia Safari.
Over 200 chefs took part
The food and wine event conceived by star chefs Nino di Costanzo and Pasquale Palamaro brought together over 200 chefs, pizza makers and master pastry chefs recently in the extraordinary setting of the Negombo Thermal Park. 
Local Campania specialities
For the occasion Nicola Celentano, Chef de Cuisine of the Vesuvio Panoramic Restaurant, presented a revisiting of an iconic Campania dish: Spaghetti alla Scarpariello. This is a classic from Campania’s frugal yet flavorful culinary heritage and is based on cherry tomatoes sautéed with herbs, parmesan cheese and basil. The participation of the Vesuvio Panoramic Restaurant, confirmed the Hotel Mediterraneo’s commitment to enhancing Campania cuisine through innovation, creativity and respect for tradition.
A restaurant with spectacular bay and Vesuvius views
The Hotel Mediterraneo’s has different catering concepts with a style of cuisine that is classic Mediterranean with strong links to the Campania region. Executive Chef Giuseppe Saccone's research, is aimed at enhancing the excellence of Campania with traditional recipes interpreted in a contemporary key and using PDO products. The Vesuvio Panoramic Restaurant is elegant, refined and romantic with incredible views of the Gulf of Naples, the islands and, of course, Mount Vesuvius. Here’s a polished travel trade style version of your text:
The refined luxury of a “grand home”
This property is the perfect choice for all those who appreciate refined luxury and the warm hospitality of a "grand home.” With 61 rooms and junior suites - many have balconies with sea, garden and pool views - there is also a spa, and an elevator with direct access to the sea and the deck area reserved for hotel guests. 
An Italian Bistrot and rooftop Sky Bar
The Terrazza Mediterraneo Italian Bistrot is the latest gem to enhance the hotel’s already renowned culinary offering. Located just opposite the front door on the scenic Piazzetta Marinella, the new venue, which opened before the summer season, lives up to its name with a relaxed yet refined atmosphere, showcasing the very best of Italian gastronomy. The Aqua Pool Lounge is a grill and pizza bar open for lunch, while the Hotel Mediterraneo’s rooftop Vista Sky Bar attracts both locals and travelers with its spectacular views, unforgettable sunsets, and evenings of live music on the Sorrento Peninsula. www.mediterraneosorrento.com
Published in MICE & Events
Ryanair's announced transition to 100% digital boarding passes is confirmed for Wednesday, 12 November.
For a faster, smarter and more sustainable travel experience
“To ensure a hassle-free transition to 100% digital boarding passes for our customers, we will be making the switch from Wednesday 12 November, traditionally a slightly quieter travel period after the early November holidays,- explains Dara Brady Ryaniar’s CMO. -Ryanair's transition to 100% digital boarding passes will offer passengers a faster, smarter and more sustainable travel experience, made even easier thanks to the myRyanair app.”
Downloading the myRyanair digital app will be mandatory
So as of 12 November passengers will no longer be able to download and print a paper boarding pass, but will instead have to use the digital one generated in the “myRyanair” app during check-in to board their flight. This is the latest step in the digital transformation of Ryanair, which has already introduced numerous features and initiatives within its app to improve the travel experience for passengers.
From preordering food and drinks to boarding updates
The digital transformations already introduced include, for example, Ordertoseat which allows passengers to order food and drinks directly from their phone and receive them first, Live Flight Information which are real-time updates on boarding, gates and delays, and Direct Disruption Updates which are live notifications from the Ryanair Operations Centre in the event of disruptions. Today, almost 80% of the Irish low-cost airline's 206 million passengers already use the digital boarding pass.
Published in Transportation
To experience the Baths of Carcalla is to experience the magic of ancient Roman engineering and leisure.
Used by both men and women
Built between 212 and 216 A.D. under the reign of Emperor Caracalla, the Baths of Caracalla were not just a place to bathe but also a symbol of society, a popular haunt where Romans socialized, exercised, and enjoyed intellectual pursuits. They were used by both men and women who used the facilities at different times of day. These vast public baths showcased the opulence of Roman public life. Covering an area of over 60 acres, they had ornate marble halls, pools decorated with mosaics and expansive gardens.
The Baths of Caracalla are close to the centre of Rome
To reach this iconic site, visitors can take a short walk or a public bus from Rome’s city center. It is well-connected to other historic sites like the Colosseum and the Palatine Hill, making it an easy addition to any Roman itinerary. For those who prefer guided tours professional guides lead informative tours, unraveling the history behind the ruins, and allowing visitors to explore the grand scale of the complex, with its massive halls, pools, and impressive arches.
Underground passageways are open to the public
While much of the original decor has disappeared over time, parts of the Baths of Caracalla remain remarkably well-preserved. The underground chambers, once home to the intricate systems of heating and water management, offer a rare insight into the sophisticated technology of the time. These subterranean passageways, open to the public, provide a fascinating contrast to the expansive open-air ruins above.
Tickets can be bought online
The Baths of Caracalla are also the stage for a major annual cultural event, the Caracalla Festival. Each summer the backdrop of the crumbling architecture becomes a dramatic stage for open-air operas, ballets, and concerts with the ruins coming alive with world-class performances starring some of the world’s greatest singers and dancers in productions from Rome's Opera House. It is advisable to programme well in advance as the performances, usually in July and August, are very popular, and it is possible to buy tickets online.
Published in Cities & Regions
Ortisei is a picture-perfect Alpine town beneath the peaks of the Dolomite Mountains with an abundance of local culture and seasonal outdoor activities.
History and heritage
Located in the Val Gardena, Ortisei’s pastel-hued houses, hand-painted frescoes, intricate timber wood carvings, and balconies with cascading flowers, make it any photographer’s dream destination. As the largest town in the Val Gardena—a string of valleys situated in the province of Bolzano – in Ortisei the locals take great pride in their history and heritage, often wearing traditional costumes during seasonal festivals and parades. In the town centre a pedestrian street is lined with boutiques selling handmade products such as carved wood sculptures, traditional textiles, and local delicacies like speck, which is smoked cured pork. And in the various bars, restaurants, and cafés visitors can find offering tempting treats, including dumplings, goulash, and the iconic apple strudel.
Two historic churches
Ortisei is home to two beautifully decorated churches that are well worth a visit: the parish church of Ortisei, dedicated to Saint Ulrich and dating back to 1793, with a Baroque spire, precious statues, ornately carved wooden altarpieces, and original frescoes. Then there is the smaller Chapel of Sant'Antonio, located in the main square, which was built in 1673 in Renaissance style and showcases beautiful stained glass windows, unique carvings, and frescoes.
Hand-carvings as souvenirs
The woodcarvers of Ortisei have been making intricate nativity scenes, life-size figures and traditional toys for centuries. Visitors can admire their ornate, hand-carved works of art, meet the renowned sculptor families of Ortisei, and take-home unique examples of their exquisite wood carvings. While the town itself offers a blend of traditional folklore and handsome architecture it is the surrounding landscape that truly captivates visitors.
Learn from a local
The best way to explore the mountains and forests surrounding Ortisei is with a knowledgeable local guide who will take you to areas of beauty off the beaten path and share valuable local insights, making any experience even more special and memorable. They can also recommend one of the Alpine mountain hut eateries to enjoy home-cooked food with locals in a charming setting overlooking the majestic Dolomite Mountains.
Where to Stay in Ortisei
The ADLER Spa resort Dolomiti offers five-star comfort in an exceptional location in the heart of Ortisei’s historic centre. This modern resort offers complimentary guided tours daily and free use of electric bikes for those who prefer biking to hiking. The perfect base for exploring the area, this award-winning resort has a restaurant serving seasonal cuisine inspired by its natural surroundings. Guests will also find complimentary indoor and outdoor activities as well as access to the AGUANA Water World and Fitness World, along with daily guided hiking and biking excursions, which are also complimentary. For information: www-adler-resorts.com
Published in Cities & Regions
The Oltrepò Pavese area in Piedmont is a hidden gem with authentic Italian landscapes, history and gastronomy.
Easily accessible from three airports
Less than two hours south of Milan across the Po River, this enchanting region has something for everyone - from wine lovers to history enthusiasts to those craving a peaceful retreat in nature. It is easily accessible from MIlan for day trips or longer stays and is often called “The Tuscany of the North” for its rolling hills, vineyards, and picturesque towns. The closest major airport is Milan Malpensa Airport where visitors can rent a car or take a train to Pavia city, followed by local transport. Milan Linate and Bergamo Orio al Serio airports are also viable alternatives depending on the planned itinerary.
Wine tastings and tours, hiking, and cycling
The Oltrepò Pavese is famous for its wine production, especially sparkling wines and the Pinot Noir varieties. It is the largest wine-producing area in Lombardy and wine tourism is concentrated in the many family-run wineries that welcome guests for tastings and vineyard tours. Beyond the vineyards, the Oltrepò’s peaceful rural charm makes it an ideal destination for outdoor lovers, with opportunities for hiking, cycling, and exploring nature reserves like the Pietra Corva Hills and the Staffora Valley.
Hiking trails and Romanesque architecture
Visits to the area can start in the town of Voghera, a charming hub with historical sites such as the imposing Castello Visconteo, a medieval fortress dating back to the 14th century. Pavia has the magnificent Charterhouse of Pavia, a Renaissance monastery and is also home to many interesting museums and a botanical garden Wine lovers should not miss a visit to the small town of Casteggio, which produces some of Italy’s finest sparkling wines. Nature lovers will delight in the hiking trails of the Oltrepò hills, particularly in the Monte Alpe nature park where the landscape changes with the seasons. For history buffs, the Abbey of Santa Maria di San Salvatore in Pavia is a must-see with its Romanesque architecture and centuries of religious art.
Delicious local pasta and rice dishes
Traditional local dishes include “pizzoccheri” a type of pasta made from buckwheat and cooked with potatoes, cabbage, and melted cheese. Another local specialty is “Risotto alla Milanese,” which is rice cooked to a smooth saffron-infused cream and often enjoyed with a glass of Oltrepò’s signature wine. Also not to be missed is the “Salame di Varzi,” a cured sausage with a protected designation of origin which is usually served with freshly baked bread and a drizzle of local honey.
Thermal waters, food and wine festivals
The Oltrepò Pavese is part of a broader region that includes thermal springs such as those found in Monticelli Brusati, which are known for their rejuvenating properties, and venturing further south to the Ligurian coast there are many opportunities for a change of scenery. The region hosts many festivals celebrating wine and food, especially in autumn during the grape harvest. These events are a fun and authentic way to mingle with locals and experience the warmth of Italian hospitality.
Published in Experiences & Tips
Just over an hour by car from Florence and half an hour by train from Pisa, Lucca is one of Tuscany’s most captivating gems.
A small oak forest on top of a medieval tower
This compact city is surrounded by monumental 17th-century walls, originally built to defend against cannon fire, and today it invites visitors to stroll or cycle along the lush tree-lined ramparts that encircle the old town. They offer great panoramic views over the city and a unique perspective on its timeless beauty. The most famous landmark is the Torre Guinigi medieval tower which has a small grove of oak trees growing right on its rooftop. These trees were planted in the 1300s by the wealthy Guinigi family, and today it is possible to climb the tower and walk among the trees, which is probably one of the most extraordinary things to do in Tuscany. 
An ancient Roman amphitheatre
The old historic center is brimming with treasures, like the Piazza dell'Anfiteatro square which is built on the site of an ancient Roman amphitheater and has a perfectly elliptical shape with graceful, curving façades. Charming outdoor cafés and boutiques occupy spaces that once echoed with the roar of the crowds which packed in for ancient gladiatorial games.
A city to enjoy on foot or by bike
The city has soaring medieval towers, and none is more iconic than the Guinigi Tower which rises some 150 feet above the rooftops. It is well worth making the effort to climb its steps for the unforgettable views over red-tiled roofs and the green Tuscan countryside beyond. Another way to enjoy Luca’s history is to rent a bicycle to circle the city walls is a quintessential experience, perfect for soaking in Lucca’s relaxed, elegant atmosphere.
Ancient churches and traditional delicacies
Lucca’s churches, too, are masterpieces, each with its own story to tell. The Church of San Michele in Foro, with its richly decorated façade and famous statue of the Archangel Michael, is a must-see, while the nearby Cathedral of San Martino houses precious works of Renaissance art. Exploring Lucca means taking your time to wander through narrow cobbled streets, sample local delicacies such as farro soup, buccellato which is a sweet bread with raisins and aniseed, and the famous tordelli Lucchesi which are XL ravioli.
Close to the Versilia Coast and to Pisa
Beyond Lucca Tuscany waits to enchant visitors with Pisa’s iconic Leaning Tower just a short journey away, while the seaside villages of the Versilia coast or the dramatic landscapes of the Garfagnana are within easy reach for those seeking nature and adventure. For those looking for history, art and gastronomy Lucca offers an authentic, beautiful, and unforgettable slice of Tuscany. For information: www.turismo.lucca.it/en/home-page
Published in Cities & Regions
“Visions: Towards More Conscious Tourism”, the 2025 edition of Rome Future Week was presented at the Le Méridien Visconti Rome.
Tourism as a source of value
The day started with a discussion focused on issues facing iconic destinations like Rome - from managing flows and expectations to balancing competitiveness, sustainability, and culture. The panel of speakers offered complementary perspectives outlining the shared vision that tourism cannot be seen just as the movement of people, but as a source of value for communities, territories, and businesses.
Hotels as cultural hubs and community partners
Opening the conversation, Giacomo Guzzardi, general manager of Le Méridien Visconti Rome, and Palazzo Scanderbeg Marriott International, underlined the evolving role of hotels as not only places to stay, but also cultural hubs and community partners. This vision was echoed by Paolo Giuntarelli of Regione Lazio, who stressed the importance of getting visitors to stay longer and guiding them beyond traditional circuits into lesser-known areas, with itineraries liked to culture, sport, and local identity. Belinda Bortolan, founder of BortolanCarnevali & Partners, highlighted the need for coherent storytelling, while Davide Desario of AdnKronos reminded participants of the media’s role in shaping perceptions. 
Revitalizing forgotten assets
Other voices enriched the debate with Daniele Manetti of Sojern pointing to the role of data and AI in managing flows and measuring impact, while Alberto Acciari, President of Tevere Day, showed how revitalizing forgotten assets such as the Tiber river can generate new forms of sustainable attraction. Concluding, journalist Claudiana Di Cesare stressed that sustainability, culture, skills, and innovation are not distinct paths, but integrated pillars on which the tourism of tomorrow will be built.
Published in MICE & Events
Le Dune Resort, in the beautiful Sicilian resort of Porto Palo di Menfi, has reopened, marking its official entry into the BWH network as a Signature Collection by Best Western.
A privileged position in a seaside village
Le Dune Resort, BW Signature Collection is an elegant 4-star seafront hotel, located in Porto Palo di Menfi, an enchanting seaside village on the south-western coast of Sicily. With its golden beaches, crystal-clear sea and authentic atmosphere it is one of the most popular seaside resorts in the region. The hotel has 52 rooms, from Standard Rooms that are comfortable and ideal for a relaxing stay to Junior Suites which are spacious and perfect for families or groups of friends. Thanks to its privileged location and exclusive services the hotel is the ideal choice for spending relaxing moments immersed in the beauty of Sicily.
“Bringing our vision of hospitality also to Sicily”
"We are pleased to consolidate our collaboration with BWH Hotels Italia & Malta with the entry of Le Dune Resort into the Signature Collection by Best Western brand. After the affiliation of the Hotel Centrale in Tirano, we enthusiastically entrust a second structure to BWH, bringing our vision of hospitality also to Sicily. With the summer season just around the corner, we are ready to welcome travellers with exclusive services and an authentic atmosphere that enhances the charm of the destination," said Andrea Sangiani, owner of the Saint Jane Hotels & Suites Group.
There are 11 BHW hotels in Sicily
Fabrizio Doria, chief development officer of BWH Hotels Italia & Malta, also welcomed the news. "The entry of Le Dune Resort into our network further strengthens our collaboration with the Saint Jane Group, confirming our trust in the brand. With this new property we reach a total of 11 hotels in Sicily. Signature Collection by Best Western is a brand that enhances the identity of each hotel and Le Dune Resort perfectly embodies this philosophy, offering an authentic and quality stay in one of the most fascinating locations in the region. We are proud to continue this journey together and to contribute to the enhancement of Porto Palo di Menfi as a destination of excellence.”
Wellness and fun facilities for adults and children
Le Dune Resort offers a wide range of services designed to guarantee comfort and relaxation to its guests. The restaurant offers refined cuisine that enhances local flavours, for wellness and fun there is a large swimming pool for adults and one for children, as well as Jacuzzis. The children's area has games and a mini club while the private beach is easily accessible. Guests can also take advantage of spaces designed for leisure time, such as the bar, solarium and fitness area, while those who want outdoor sports activities can try their hand at beach volleyball. The hotel also has an indoor and outdoor car park, and for those seeking an even more exclusive service, a massage area for a total wellness experience and an airport shuttle service for easy travel are available on request.
Published in Hospitality
The municipality of Abano Terme, in the province of Padua, is boosting its cultural and hot springs heritage through an integrated tourism strategy.
A promotional and marketing website
The aim is to offer an increasingly experiential, rejuvenating and sustainable experience, and at the heart of the strategy is the work is a consortium of local companies which is responsible for managing the promotional and marketing website for the destination. The portal, integrated with the official destination website, serves as a booking platform for accommodation facilities and local tourist experiences, promoting a range of themed offerings from green tourism to wellness, and from cycling to culture.
AbanoPadova CVBureau
Launch of the Discover Abano tours
The Discover Abano project, launched in April is a series of guided tours in Italian and German designed to tell the story of the city, its thermal heritage and its urban cultural heritage. The tours include stops at the thermal pools and meetings with local businesses and take place every Thursday until mid-June, resuming in September. Cultural activities include temporary exhibitions, with the “Women Power” has already attracting some 3,000 visitors in a month. Abano has an efficient IAT office, open 365 days a year, which not only provides valuable information to tourists, but also promotes and markets the tourist experiences offered by local operators, including those in the hospitality sector.
AbanoPadova CVBureau
Activation of an accommodation intelligence platform
All accommodation facilities equipped with management software can now access the platform provided by Hbenchmark and offered free of charge thanks to the synergy with the Padua Chamber of Commerce: an advanced accommodation intelligence analysis tool that enables tourism planning based on predictive and historical data The Municipality of Abano thus confirms its vision: to build an intergenerational, sustainable and authentic tourist destination, capable of integrating tradition and innovation to attract contemporary travellers. For information: www.experienceabanomontegrotto.com.
Published in Cities & Regions
Tropea, a small seaside town in the southern Italian region of Calabria, is an idyllic coastal escape.
Tropea embodies the best of Italian coastal life
Dramatic cliffs meet the azure waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea on the Calabrian coast and, perched high above this stunning Southern Italian coastline, the little town of Tropea offers a blend of natural beauty, history, and the laid-back rhythm of Italian coastal life. Calabria, with its 485 miles of coastline and two seas, the Tyrrhenian and Ionian, is a region of contrasts, and Tropea is its crown jewel. 
Lamezia Terme’s airport is just an hour away
Tropea is accessible by train or car, with the nearest major airport in Lamezia Terme just an hour away. The old historic center is a tangle of cobbled streets, ancient buildings, and panoramic views of the coastline. At its heart stands the Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell’Isola, an iconic monastery built on a rocky promontory. The sanctuary, surrounded by lush gardens, offers views that seem to stretch to infinity, with the sparkling sea and the distant Aeolian Islands as its backdrop. Tropea’s beaches – the Marina dell’Isola and Spiaggia della Rotonda are two of the most popular - have soft white sands and crystalline waters that are framed by rugged cliffs. 
Local seafood, onions and spicy salami
Tropea reflects the best of the Calabria region which has a rich landscape with three mountain ranges and several national parks, hiking trails through pristine forests, waterfalls, and ancient villages. The region is also known for its bold, rustic cuisine, and Tropea’s signature red onions, which are sweet and mild, are a staple in dishes ranging from salads to savory jams. Another local favourite is ‘Nduja, a spicy, spreadable pork salami flavored with Calabrian chili. Local seafood, fresh from the Tyrrhenian Sea, features prominently on menus, and should be accompanied by the simple but charming local wines.
Day trips to nearby islands and to a volcano
Exciting day excursions include the Capo Vaticano cape with its stunning beaches that are perfect for snorkeling, diving, and hiking. Boat tours explore hidden coves, grottos, the nearby Aeolian Islands and Stromboli, which has black sand beaches and impressive lava flows from its active volcano known as the “Lighthouse of the Mediterranean.”
Published in On the road
Latest articles
Latest Video
Castellabate
Castellabate is a charming hilltop town located in southern …
300Castellabate
Castellabate is a charming hilltop town located in southern …
300- Our Partners -
Welcome to Italy
Italian Blue Route
Italian Blue Route
