Italy has an uncanny way of popping up in world rankings of what’s best in tourism. So it comes as no surprised to find it high on the Time Out list of the Coolest Neighborhoods in the World 2023.  This rating of the greatest places for fun, food, culture and community is based on variables like, access to open and green spaces, social ventures and thriving street life, and in 8^th place we find Milan’s Isola district.

Called Isola (island) as it is “cut off” from the central area by a tramline, it has been spruced up and is now claiming the title of Milan’s coolest hangout. Just a short walk from the central Parco Sempione and the fancy Brera area, it is a high-energy, buzzing quarter with colourful street art and a plethora of trendy bars, restaurants, and galleries.  

What makes it especially appealing, however, is that it is much more than your typical hipster enclave. Its local heart still beats. And you become part of it as you stroll through the weekly outdoor market, swing by the local butcher and baker, and check out its charming 1920s ringhiera-style houses. It is also home to artistic tombs in the Cimetero Monumentale, the stunning Vertical Forest skyscraper and to some of Milan’s liveliest aperitivo bars, as well as the famous Blue Note jazz club.  

Pamela McCourt Francescone
Executive Editor

The provinces of Piacenza, Parma, and Reggio Emilia can boast Emilia’s On the Green:  five splendid 18-hole golf courses.

Five spectacular golf courses in a 100-kilometre radius

In a land with a thousand-year history, rich in culture, art and music and with a unique food and wine heritage, Emilia Golf Experience is the new sports tourism and holiday proposal from the Visit Emilia agency. In just 100 kilometres the 5 spectacular golf courses set in extraordinary landscapes are the Croara Country Club in the province of Piacenza, Golf Salsomaggiore Terme and Golf del Ducato in the province of Parma, and Matilde di Canossa Golf Club and San Valentino Golf Club in Reggio Emilia.

Visit Emilia Golf Club Salsomaggiore PR Credit APT Emilia Romagna

“Swiss golfers were up 14.2% from January to August” 

Emilia Golf Experience comes with an opportunity to discover castles, places of art and culture, and taste the delicacies that give this land its unique and prestigious gastronomy. All combined with excellent hospitality, with facilities in all three provinces offering holiday opportunities and packages, designed to satisfy golfers and enable them to experience extraordinary places. “Golf can attract an international audience,-  Cristiano Casa, president of Visit Emilia, figures on the presence of Swiss tourists is particularly satisfying, because we have worked so hard on this market. Some 37,143 overnight stays in Emilia by Swiss visitors were registered between January and August 2023,  which is +27.3% on 2019 and +13.2% on 2022.”

Golf courses attract visitors from all over the world

“This project represents a significant step towards the development of tourism in our municipality, – adds the mayor of Salsomaggiore Terme, Luca Musile Tanzi. - Golf is gaining more and more fans and golf courses are not just sports venues, but also tourist attractions capable of attracting visitors from all over the world. Salsomaggiore Terme is ready to embrace the future, to diversify what it has to offer tourists and to continue to grow as a destination of excellence."

For information: www.visitemilia.com 

  

Cava de' Terreni  is a hidden gem nestled amidst the enchanting landscape of Italy's Amalfi Coast.

The town dates back to Roman times

This charming and picturesque destination, steeped in history and brimming with natural beauty, is often overshadowed by its more renowned neighbours along the coast. It offers visitors a unique blend of historical intrigue, stunning scenery, and delicious local cuisine, boasting a rich history dating back to Roman times. The town's name is believed to originate from the Latin Cavum, meaning cave which aptly describes the geological formations in this lush valley. One of its historical treasures is the Basilica di Sant'Alferio, an ancient church that showcases intricate medieval architecture and beautiful frescoes. For history buffs the Lucania Occidentale archaeological museum provides a window into the region's past, featuring artifacts and exhibits that shed light on the historical development of Cava de' Terreni and its surrounds.

A haven for hikers and nature lovers

Cava de' Terreni's geographical location makes it a fantastic base for exploring the breathtaking Amalfi Coast. Nestled between the Gulf of Salerno and the Lattari Mountains, this town offers easy access to some of Italy's most stunning landscapes. The nearby Valle delle Ferriere valley is a protected nature reserve and a haven for hikers and nature lovers. Its lush forests, crystal-clear streams, and cascading waterfalls provide an ideal setting for outdoor adventures. As you explore the area, don't forget to visit the Grotta dei Capelli, a fascinating cave system that showcases the region's geological diversity and is an intriguing natural wonder that is well worth exploring.

Limoncello is a famous local liqueur 

Like many Italian towns Cava de' Terreni offers a culinary experience that's a feast for the senses. With the town's cuisine reflecting its Mediterranean heritage, there is an emphasis on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Be sure to savor the local pasta dishes, such as scialatielli, a flat and wide pasta variety often served with seafood or a tomato sauce. The Amalfi Coast's lemons are world-famous, and you must also try the limoncello, a zesty lemon liqueur, and the local lemon-infused desserts. And no visit to Cava de' Terreni would be incomplete without sampling the town's mozzarella di bufala, a type of buffalo milk mozzarella that is soft, creamy, and a true gastronomic delight. 

Quiet charm, history and picturesque landscapes

While Cava de' Terreni might not be as famous as some of its Amalfi Coast neighbours, its allure lies in its quiet charm and the ability to provide an escape from the tourist crowds. Visitors can savor the history, scenery, and culinary delights without the hustle and bustle of the more famous coastal towns. So, if you're seeking a tranquil retreat filled with history, picturesque landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine, put Cava de' Terreni on your list. This hidden gem on the Amalfi Coast promises an authentic Italian experience that will leave you with lasting memories. For information: www.cittadicava.it

Autumn in Lignano Sabbiadoro (Friuli Venezi Giulia) and on the lagoon is an opportunity for timeless experiences.

A haven of good food, nature, and laidback delights

Nestled in the embrace of three waterways—the brackish lagoon, the freshwater river, and the salty sea—Lignano Sabbiadoro is a haven for those who cherish good food, nature, and laidback delights. This destination offers authentic experiences through a diverse range of activities, from leisurely walks and cycling by the sea, to exploring local cellars and savouring the finest wines. And visitors  should miss indulging in a memorable lunch on the tranquil waters of the lagoon.

The sea doesn't take a holiday

The eight kilometres of golden beach in Lignano Sabbiadoro invite you to take long and rejuvenating walks on foot or by bicycle. Journey from the Terrazza a Mare to the Red Lighthouse or explore the entire peninsula towards the mouth of the Tagliamento River. Sail aboard the X-River boat pass and embark on itineraries along the nearby Venetian shore.

Autumnal shades in the Lagoon

The Valle Canal Novo Nature Reserve comes alive with the unique hues of autumn, offering a perfect backdrop for capturing the essence of this breathtaking scenery. For birdwatching enthusiasts, the reserve provides opportunities to spot pink flamingos and a variety of ducks, including teals and pochards, along its paths.

Timeless gourmet experiences

In Marano Lagunare, you can dine directly on a boat that features a covered and heated lounge, providing a delightful setting to enjoy lunch while discovering the landscapes and centuries-old local culinary traditions. After your lagoon excursion, unwind with an aperitif in one of the many wine cellars in the area. Indulge in tastings of local wines, including Ribolla Gialla, Friulano, Pinot Grigio, Malvasia, and more. For information: visit www.lignanosabbiadoro.it.

Discover Gubbio, known as Umbria’s City of Stone, which is one of the oldest towns in central Italy.

Elevators and a cable car to the upper levels 

Wonderfully preserved over the centuries, Gubbio is a true architectural masterpiece of the medieval city-states of the 13th and 14th centuries. Its steep cobbled streets - there are public elevators to reach the town’s two upper levels - lead to monumental constructions. There is also a cable car (with standup birdcage-like cabins with railings to chest level) up Mount Ingino to the Basilica of Sant'Ubaldo, work on which began in 1513 and which holds the remains of the town’s patron saint.

The Fountain of the Madmen

The Palazzo dei Consoli, on a lower level than the magnificent Cathedral dedicated to Saints Marian and James, is the symbol of the city and now a museum, while the Palazzo Pretorio is the seat of the Town Hall. Also worthy of note is the Palazzo del Bargello and one of Gubbio’s most famous monuments, the Fountain of the Madmen. Tradition has it that by running three times around the fountain, one can obtain a madman's licence, but this has to be done in the presence of a citizen of Gubbio!  

A medieval marketplace and a Roman theatre

The handsome Renaissance Ducal Palace was almost certainly designed by Francesco di Giorgio Martini and documents the reign of the Montefeltro lords over the town. In the lower town the Piazza Quaranta Martiri was an important market area in the Middle Ages.  A visit to the remains of the Roman theatre is a way to understand the social organization of the Roman city of Iguvium, revealing the tastes, customs and habits of that period. Completed around 20 B.C., it was built with large rusticated limestone blocks and could seat about 6,000 spectators, making it among the largest of its time.

Local flatbreads and truffles 

Among the local dishes crescia is a flatbread of flour, water and salt eaten with cooked greens and local cured meats, while pan caciato is made by adding small pieces of pecorino or caciotta cheese to the bread dough. In season the black and white truffles found in the area are used in a variety of pasta and meat dishes. 

Summonte is a charming little medieval town in the province of Avellino in the Campania region. 

Trekking and music festivals

Just eight kilometres from Avellino town, which in turn is less than 60 kilometres from Naples, Summonte was once a centre for the production of mulberry trees, the leaves of which were used in silk making. At 750 metres asl, visiting Summonete means not only discovering the charms of the historic centre and the environmental route, but also quenching one's thirst directly at the purest spring water springs. It also means enjoying enchanting trekking trails, mountain refuges and carefree evenings at music festivals and traditional fairs savouring local products.

Submontis is an old Roman site

Summonte, which is also an easy drive from the Royal Palace of Caserta and the Sorrento and Amalfi Coasts, is rich in art, nature, history, culture, food, wine and local traditions. Travellers on the lookout for new places to explore can discover Submontis, the old Roman site at the foot of Mount Vallatrone. Visitors will also be awed by the majestic linden tree which is nearly 300 years old, has a circumference of nine metres, stands 34 metres tall in the Piazza De Vito, and is in the census of Italian monumental trees.

Exceptional views from the Angevin Tower 

The medieval town is dominated by the majestic Angevin Tower which is 16 metres tall and consists of five floors. Having been brought back to its ancient splendor it now hosts a permanent exhibition with documentation relating to the history of the territory, and there are exceptional views from the terrace. The Civic Museum inside the castle complex has two sections: one dedicated to medieval armaments, the other to archaeological finds discovered in the castle, testifying to uninterrupted use from the Middle Ages to the modern age. 

Priceless art, chestnuts and porcini mushrooms

The Arch of Saint Nicholas, dedicated to the patron saint, once the main gateway to the medieval town opened at dawn and closed at dusk, and has an inscription with an image of the saint at the top. The Church of San Nicola da Bari has an elegant polychrome marble high altar with inlays and sculptures, and on the walls there are many paintings of great artistic and cultural value. The town’s typical dish is a chestnut and porcini mushroom soup made from locally gathered mushrooms and the area’s renowned Partenio chestnuts.   

Bergamo Alta, or Upper Bergamo, stands as the oldest, most historic, and enchanting part of the Lombard city. 

A funicular leads up to the old city

With its historic buildings, churches, cafes, and artisanal shops, Bergamo Alta unquestionably represents the pulsating heart of Lombardy's capital. It is made to be explored on foot in a single day, whether you arrive by train or car or opt for the funicular that ascends from the lower part of the city up to the centre. 

A fountain with sphinxes and a fresco museum 

First and foremost is Piazza Vecchia, the arrival point of the funicular with Piazza Vecchia which is packed with cafes offering outdoor seating. At the square's heart stands the distinctive Contarini Fountain, guarded by its sphinxes that seem to watch over the visitors. 

Not far from Piazza Vecchia the Palazzo della Regione di Città Alta, the oldest municipal building in Italy, houses the Fresco Museum with many interesting highlights.

Ancient monuments and 6 kilometres of walls

Another of Bergamo Alta's attractions and a true symbol of the city is the Campanone or Civic Tower. At a towering 52.76 meters it offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the ancient city. The summit can be reached on foot up 230 steps or more comfortably by lift, and the tower houses Lombardy's largest bell. In Piazza Duomo visitors find the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, the Cathedral of Sant'Alessandro, the Baptistery, and the Colleoni Chapel.  For history enthusiasts, there are the Venetian Walls of the Upper Town. Stretching some six kilometres, and with four city gates, they are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

The MSC Group's acquisition of approximately 50% of Italo is official. 

The binding agreement, reached with Global Infrastructure Partners, aims to “establish a long-term strategic partnership for the future development of Italo.” The remaining 50% of Italo will continue to be owned by GIP, with joint governance with MSC, alongside entities of the Allianz Group, funds managed by Allianz Capital Partners, and other co-investors.

Aponte’s group is expanding its portfolio

The Geneva-based transport giant, founded by 83-year-old Gianluigi Aponte, is expanding its portfolio, which already includes cargo shipping companies, cruise ships, ferry companies, port terminals, maritime and travel agencies, tour operators, technology and cybersecurity centers, and logistics companies. The Mediterranean Shipping Company Holding has a global workforce of some 180,000 and posted over €86 billion in consolidated revenues last year, with a profit of €36.2 billion.

A long-standing commitment

Diego Aponte, group president of MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company, said,

“This agreement demonstrates our long-standing commitment to Italy and support for its high-speed passenger rail transport. We strongly believe in Italo's potential to further boost rail connectivity across Italy and the national tourism market. The agreement also reflects our Group's objective which is to develop sustainable modes of transport for both passengers and goods, aligning with Italy's efforts to enhance its infrastructure network through new projects outlined in the PNRR to extend high-speed rail services.”

“This is Europe’s leading intermodal group” 

Bayo Ogunlesi, president and CEO of Global Infrastructure Partners, added, “We remain committed to providing high-quality service to passengers, and benefits for the Italian economy. We are pleased that MSC shares our vision for Italo's future, as high-speed rail transport is fundamental to achieving emissions reduction objectives and aligns with GIP's energy transition and decarbonization strategies.”

Luca Cordero di Montezemolo, president of Italo, highlighted three key points regarding the operation: “The acquisition of the majority of Italo Spa by MSC is a source of satisfaction and pride, bringing growth and development. This agreement marks the birth of Europe’s leading intermodal group, offering a truly integrated mobility service for trains, ships, and buses. I am pleased that GIP, along with Allianz and other investors, ensures stability and continuity, reaffirming the commitment of key figures like CEO La Rocca.”

The completion of the transaction is subject to the customary conditions, including obtaining regulatory and competition approvals in relevant jurisdictions.

Giuseppe Ciminnisi, president of Fiavet-Confcommercio, the travel agency federation of Italy’s largest business association, recently commented on the complex trend of the summer travel flows, which were on the rise until April but suddenly came to a stop because of the increase in prices.

"This was supposed to be the year of full recovery, but new tourism models we may have inherited from the pandemic emerged, especially for air transport which is often not crystal clear.”

"We can’t intervene on external factors such as volcanoes that erupt, fires in Sicilian airports, earthquakes like the one in Morocco, and now the crisis in the Middle East that involves so many of our colleagues who operate in that area. What we need is to find common solutions, and strive to establish consistency wherever feasible, as in the territorial continuity for Sicily and Sardinia, and in relations with some of the low-cost airlines". Legality and the law will be the strength of Fiavet-Confcommercio next year, added Ciminnisi.