A new suite in Rome’s Anantara Palazzo Naiadi has been dedicated to Sophia Loren, who recently turned 90. 

The great actress loves staying in this hotel 

The new Sophia Loren Suite which Anantara, together with the actress’s son Edoardo Ponti, has been preparing for months, has been conceived as a Roman home for the actress, faithfully recounting her life, habits and passions. It all stems from a close, decades-long relationship between the actress, her son and the Anantara property where the actress  loved to stay while in Rome.   “It will not be a museum,- explains general manager Francesco Mennella, -but a vibrant and dynamic place of the soul, that gives guests a true and authentic experience.” 

The suite has a picture of Sofia Loren’s hometown Pozzuoli

A suite reflects the actress's habits, her personal tastes and her most precious memories, like the white roses, her favourite flowers, her favourite books and her best-loved images such as a painting of Pozzuoli, her beloved hometown.  “My mother,-  says her son Edoardo, - has always particularly loved this hotel. She knows every nook and cranny, but she is especially fond of this suite from which she loved looking out at the square and the fountain, towards the basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri.  She visited the basilica accompanied by a dear friend, Giuseppe Marzio Prontrandolfo, who is the hotel's institutional relations manager. They have been friends for 20 years and it is also thanks to him that this collaboration with Palazzo Naiadi began.



Guests can get to taste the actress’s favourite dishes

The new Sofia Loren Suite also has a makeup corner, and the great actress’s favourite perfume is sprayed on the air. Then there is the DVD player to watch her most iconic films, the music playlist with her favourite songs, and the coffee ritual served with two ladyfingers as she is wont to do. I addition there are family photos, recipe books written by her, biographies and some of her favourite books, and guests can also get to taste some of her favourite dishes, which the chef can prepare on request, drawing from the recipe books written by the screen star and Oscar-winning actress.   

That perfect selfie at Rome’s iconic Trevi Fountain could soon cost visitors more than the coin they are about to toss into it for luck. Because city officials are considering an entrance ticket to protect the timeless beauty of one of Rome’s most famous monuments. 

Rome's mayor Roberto Gualtieri wants to introduce a limited-access reservation system to ease the crush of tourists at the famous fountain. Which is actually not a bad idea, as the celebrations for the 2025 Jubilee - a historic Catholic tradition held every 25 years – are expected to draw a staggering 32 million visitors to the Eternal City next year. Which inevitably means even more crowds, even more litter, and even more wear and tear for the Trevi.

The idea is to charge tourists (but not locals) a modest €2 fee and to create two zones: a free entrance piazza for strolling, and a reserved area for small groups to access the fountain’s front row for a closer look and prime selfie time.

All this because visitors often fail to treat the majestic fountain, designed by Nicola Salvi in 1762, with the respect it deserves. From tossing bread to pigeons, to taking a dip like Anita Ekberg did in the movie La Dolce Vita, to protesters dyeing the water, the fountain comes in for more than its fair share of abuse. 

 “We want to transform the Trevi Fountain into a true experience,” said councilor Alessandro Onorato, “not a chaotic struggle for the best selfie spot or a place to eat fast food.”  Soon, although no date has been set, anyone planning a trip to Rome should check out booking a slot because, just as Rome was not built in a day, neither it seems is the plan to save one of its most iconic landmarks.

Pamela McCourt Francescone
Executive Editor

The new Marriott Casa Brera, a luxury lifestyle hotel, has opened in Milan.

A 1950s building with Milanese flair

The project is the result of the conservative restoration of a building that dates back to the late 1950s and was designed by architect Pietro Lingeri, a leading figure in the Italian rationalism movement. Casa Brera is designed by Patricia Urquiola who has played on the dichotomy between stylistic rigour and creative flair, representing two complementary faces of Milan and paying homage to the rationalist architecture of the Lombard capital.

The hotel has 116 rooms and four F&B hubs 

Located in Piazzetta Bossi, just a few steps away from the La Scala opera house, the hotel has 116 rooms inspired by typical Milanese design, art and culture.  It has four gastronomic venues: the all-day Casa Brera Living lounge bar, the Scena haute cuisine Italian restaurant, the Etereo panoramic rooftop with a skybar and the traditional Odachi Japanese restaurant. Chef Andrea Berton, the consultant for the first three food & beverage hubs, helms the gastronomic offerings.

Delta Air Lines plans a +10% increase in capacity and new routes for Italy in 2025.

Four new routes for Italy from 2025

The airline recently chose Rome to present its developments and strategies for 2025, including the launch of four new routes and an increase in the frequencies of other flights. Starting in May 2025 Delta Air Lines will inaugurate the Catania-New York, Naples-Atlanta, Milan Malpensa-Boston and Rome Fiumicino-Minneapolis routes. 

A total of 116 weekly summer flights from the US

At the same time, it will increase to three daily flights between Rome and Atlanta, its hub, in the peak months, as it already does with New York. Another novelty concerns the Venice-New York, already inaugurated, which will be extended in winter from this year. Overall, Delta Air Lines will operate up to 116 weekly flights between Italy and the US in summer 2025.” 

Serving Sicily for the first time

“We confirm our love for Italy to which we have been flying for 34 years,” said Matte Curcio, senior vice president Delta Emeai, - We will operate up to 116 weekly flights between Italy and the United States in the summer of 2025. Not only will we serve Sicily for the first time with a direct flight to New York, but we will also be the only airline to operate a direct flight between Milan and Boston and between Naples and Atlanta.” 

Flights up by 6% in Rome and 22% in Milan

“Further, we will offer five non-stop routes to the US from Rome, with the addition of our hub in Minneapolis. Compared to 2024, Rome Fiumicino will see +6% and Milan Malpensa +22%. Overall, Delta remains the best choice for Italian passengers to fly to New York, Los Angeles and Boston.” 

In terms of product, all flights from Italy will have four classes of service and Delta is equipping its international flights with fast, free wi-fi.

Resort Castello Dal Pozzo in Piedmont has joined the international Preferred Hotels & Resorts network. 

“We intend to attract a global clientele”

“This affiliation is a fundamental step in our strategy of growth and consolidation in the luxury hospitality market,- says administrator, Aimone Dal Pozzo. - Thanks to this alliance we intend to increase the visibility of our brand and attract a global clientele.”

Rebuilt in the 17th century and transformed into a unique example in Italy of neo-Gothic Victorian style by architect Richard Popwell Pullan, the relais, owned by the Dal Pozzo family for six generations, is located 25 minutes from Milan Malpensa airport and just two kilometres from Lake Maggiore. With 46 rooms, the gourmet Le Fief restaurant, an American bar, the Dan Garden lounge and a swimming pool with the Folia Life bistro, the property is set in 24 hectares of centuries-old English-style parkland.

Many areas and services have been updated

“The castle's history is rooted in a millennial past,-  says president Cassiano Dal Pozzo. -It has always represented an essential reference point for the Oleggio community. With passion, dedication and a clear vision we have embarked on a long and complex path of recovery, updating many areas and services to reply to contemporary needs.” 

ITA Airways’ France-Italy services were in the spotlight again this year at the IFTM Top Resa show in Paris last week.

France is ITA Airways’ second largest market after Italy

The Italian carrier was present at the show in Club Affaires, the area dedicated to business travel specialists, which was located in the airline pavilion. For ITA Airways France is the second European market after Italy and is currently served with 92 weekly frequencies, for a total of 184 flights during the summer season. The schedule includes 4 daily flights between Rome Fiumicino and Paris Charles De Gaulle, 3 daily flights between Rome and Nice and up to 7 daily flights between Milan Linate and Paris Charles De Gaulle/Orly.

IFTM Top Resa 2024 featured 1,400 brands

A landmark for travel and tourism professionals from all segments, the IFTM Top Resa event is a dynamic global platform that brings together the industry's key players to define the future of sustainable travel. The 2024 edition featured over 1,400 brands and welcomed more than 30,000 professionals from 170 destinations for the three-day programme.

The Volare loyalty programme has 2.4 million members

Confirming the importance of the French market, ITA Airways, through the Volare loyalty programme, offers exclusive services and the possibility of accumulating points from the first flight, as well as a wide range of partnerships. The Volare programme is growing rapidly and currently has 2.4 million members, more than 30 commercial partners and 10 alliances with other airlines' loyalty programmes. Volare is very popular in France, the fourth largest market by number of members.

ITA Airways flies to 57 destinations

2024 is a year of strong growth for ITA Airways, particularly on long-haul services. Currently ITA Airways operates to 57 destinations, including 16 domestic, 26 international and 15 intercontinental.  During the summer season the airline expanded its offer with new direct flights from Rome Fiumicino to Chicago, Toronto, Riyadh, Accra, Dakar and Jeddah. All passengers arriving in Rome can easily connect to ITA Airways' extensive domestic and European network from its main hub in Rome Fiumicino.

The Langhe and Roero areas in Piedmont can boast an EcoMuseum, a truffle fair and much more. 

A network of paths for lovers of nature

Winding through the Rocche del Roero, in Piedmont, visitors find themselves on a network of paths that look like something out of a fantasy saga. It was here about 250,000 years ago that the Tanaro river diverted its course creating beautifully shaped spires and majestic and natural amphitheatres where nature lovers can venture on foot for a unique day of trekking.

A stunning natural EcoMuseum

The rock formations are so extravagant that they gave rise to an ancient Medieval legend that claims they were created by Beelzebub himself, armed with a spade and a colossal basket. To be sure the rocky gorges, high pinnacles and deep canyons are a unique spectacle, so much so that they are officially called an EcoMuseum. From Cisterna to Pocapaglia one enters a unique territory with villages perched on hilly ridges, with the flora composed of dry microclimates coexisting alongside extremely humid plants.  A little over half an hour's drive from La Morra, the Uve Rooms & Wine Bar is a boutique in a perfect starting point for exploring the fascinating Langhe, and also nearby Roero.
Autumn in the Langhe with the Alba Truffle Fair 

In October the first mists that veil the rows of vines transform the landscape into a muffled dream, making the Langhe landscape even more romantic. And it is this suspended humidity that develops one of the area’s most precious treasures: the white truffle. Gourmet connoisseurs cannot miss the Alba Truffle Fair, scheduled in the beautiful town of the Langhe from 12 October to 8 December 2024.

The Uve Rooms and Wine Bar has 8 rooms and suites

The fair, which represents one of the main showcases of haute gastronomy and Italian excellence, attracts visitors and enthusiasts from all over the world, and offers the opportunity - in addition to purchasing precious truffles - to immerse oneself in a world of show cooking, food and wine tastings, cooking classes, and fine dining.  La Morra is a hamlet suspended in the hills just 15 minutes from Alba, and the Uve Rooms & Wine Bar with just eight rooms and suites, offers comfort and relaxation in an atmosphere of refined luxury, and is strategically positioned for easy access to all the main Langhe towns.

A guide to the most interesting routes and events for cyclists on holiday in five Italian regions in a new guide from hu openair.

Veneto’s Mincio cycle path

The hu openair brand of the Human Company group has ten open-air facilities in Italy and Europe. The Veneto region with its evocative Prosecco hills, Lake Garda and historic art cities such as Verona and Vicenza, is also an ideal destination for cycling holiday lovers. One trail not to be missed by enthusiasts is the scenic Mincio cycle path which connects villages such as Valeggio and Borghetto on over 45 kilometres between Mantua and Peschiera del Garda. The hu Altomincio village, located along the banks of the river, is an excellent base for convenient access to the cycle path.

Discovering the Trentino Alto Adige’s nature

Trentino Alto Adige is famous for its imposing Dolomites and peaceful Alpine lakes and is among the top destinations for cycling tourism in Italy. The Valsugana cycle path is a stand- out route that passes through evocative landscapes and picturesque villages. Linking Trentino and Veneto it is ideal for a day of sport, discovery and contact with nature. The track stretches for about 80 kilometres from Pergine Valsugana, near Lake Caldonazzo, to Bassano del Grappa in Veneto, following the course of the Brenta river for a cycling experience to satisfy all skill levels.

Historic cycle events in Tuscany

Tuscany with its rolling hills, vineyards and centuries-old olive groves, is the perfect choice for lovers of nature, open spaces and cycling. The Setteponti road is a cycle route past typical villages, ancient religious buildings, terraced vineyards and olive groves. To comfortably explore the beauty of Tuscany stay in the village of Norcenni Girasole which is a few kilometres from Florence and framed by the Chianti hills. For cycling enthusiasts Gaiole del Chianti will host the 27th edition of the Eroica event on 5 and 6 October. This important and historical event will see the participation of cyclists wearing vintage or historically inspired clothing and racing on vintage bicycles. Then on 7 and 8 September the area will welcome the participants of the Marzocchina di San Giovanni Valdarno, a cycling tourism event that combines a passion for cycling with art and food and wine. Then on 21 and 22 September the Fiorino Mud gravel cycling event will be held, starting from Norcenni Girasole.

Lazio’s UNESCO-listed Appian Way

In addition to the capital, the Lazio region offers a variety of enchanting landscapes, from the Roman Hills to the volcanic lakes of Bracciano and Bolsena, and nature reserves such as the Circeo National Park. The ancient Appian Way – recently listed by UNESCO - is ideal for cycling with its Roman villas and catacombs in a green area removed from the bustling city centre. For a moment of relaxation and refreshment after cycling, the Fabulous Village is the ideal place to stay in a strategic location, halfway between the capital and the coast, from which numerous places of interest are easily accessible.

Umbria offers routes of all levels

Known as the green heart of Italy, the Umbria region is famous for its hills, forests and valleys. It offers countless opportunities for nature lovers such as the Sibillini Mountains National Park, Lake Trasimeno and the Marmore Waterfalls. Among the various cycling routes one suitable for all levels is the Tiber cycle route connecting Città di Castello to Perugia and running along the banks of the river. This almost completely flat itinerary runs through the landscapes of the Umbrian Valtiberina and alternates dirt stretches with others on paved roads with little traffic. Rich in medieval villages and ancient paths, this region is the perfect retreat for those seeking tranquillity and contact with nature. Five regions: five hu openair suggestions for cycling through Italy.

The rules for travelling to Europe will change starting in 2025 for visitors from the US and another 60 countries who wish to enter an EU Schengen country.

A new visa-waiver system

Europe is the most visited region in the world, and the new obligatory ETIAS visa-waiver system, due to take effect next year, is aimed at protecting and strengthening Europe's borders amid mounting terror threats. The ETIAS - European Travel Information and Authorization System - will apply to travellers from some 60 countries who are entering any member country of the Europe Schengen zone. This currently includes 23 countries, as well as to six non-EU countries plus three European microstates for a total of 32 countries - which means registering for such holiday favourites as Italy, France, Germany, Greece, Spain and even the Vatican City.

Applicable to visitors from the US, Canada, Australia and more

American citizens as well as travellers from some sixty other countries will require an ETIAS visa waiver to travel for short stays to any of the 32 countries listed, with the eligible countries also including Canada, Mexico and Australia.  

A simple online application process

The application process can be done online and it should only take about ten minutes to fill out the form. It is necessary to have a valid passport, an e-mail address and a debit or credit card to pay the €7 application fee.  Travellers younger than 18 or older than 70 years old will be exempted from the fee although they still need to obtain the ETIAS approval. 

The ETIAS will be valid for 3 years

The authorization is valid for three years or until a passport expires, and travellers holding the ETIAS can re-enter Europe multiple times within the three-year period. The scheme will go into effect presumably during the first half of 2025 and there will be a six-month transitional period, during which the ETIAS requirement will not apply except for travellers entering Europe for the first time. For information: https://etias.com/articles/visa-waiver-for-visiting-the-european-union