October 17, 2026
For visitors to Rome the easiest way to discover the wonders of the Roman Hills is on one of the Castelli Romani Let's Go! tours.
A new way to discover what’s outside the Eternal City
Using the hop-on hop-off formula, well known in large cities but never before applied to an outlying tourist area, these itineraries are curated by Marco Benazzi's tour operator Don't Stop Me and promoted by partner Castelli Romani DMO. They are the handiest and most comfortable way to explore the many charming towns and attractions in the Castelli Romani, which are the hills that encircle the Eternal City
Ariccia
Hop-on and hop-off at planned stopping points
The customizable itineraries, departing from Piazzale Appio at the San Giovanni Metro station in the centre of Rome, allow visitors to hop-on and hop-off on request at the various planned stops. This is a great way to discover the vast wealth of attractions awaiting outside the city, from the remains of ancient Rome, medieval villages, noble palaces and underground passages, to catacombs, volcanic lakes and nature trails. And also a unique chance to taste local specialties and wines in wine cellars, trattorias and restaurants which serve 100% farm-to-fork products. 
Two itineraries to choose from…or do both!
In addition the hop-on hop-off tours also promote local handicraft activities and the numerous festivals that are organized in the various Roman Hill towns almost weekly, during which it is possible to enjoy some truly authentic experiences. There are currently two itineraries: the first, departing on Saturdays stops in Frascati, Grottaferrata, Marino, Castel Gandolfo and Castel Gandolfo’s lake, while the second, scheduled for Sundays stops in Albano Laziale, Ariccia, Genzano, Lanuvio, Nemi and Castel Gandolfo. After each stop, the hop-on hop-off bus continues and returns after about two hours to move on to the next stage of the route. During these stops visitors can customize their time with visits, activities and experiences, many of which are exclusive. For information: www.letsgotour.it/tourdeicastelliromani, www.visitcastelliromani.it
Published in Experiences & Tips
The Bulgarella group is redeveloping the Hotel Bristol in Viareggio and restyling the Viareggio Hotel.
“We will transform the Hotel Bristol into a 5-star” 
Ray Lo Faso, general director of the Bulgarella group
For the Hotel Bristol the investment is €10 million. “The objective – explains Ray Lo Faso, general director of the Bulgarella group, – is to reopen in time for the 2025 season and transform the hotel into a 5-star.” The accommodation capacity will increase, and a new steel structure, raised above the original core, will house the restaurant, the kitchen, and an infinity pool with sea views.
All rooms will have a smart home system
“Once the works are completed Hotel Bristol will have 61 rooms, a restaurant, breakfast room, kitchen and services. On the ground floor there will be the reception, public areas, the breakfast room, some guest rooms and a small commercial business. The remaining rooms, of various types, will be located on the first, second and third floors and all will have a smart home system."
The 4-star Viareggio Hotel is for business and family guests
The Bulgarella group also takes over the direct management of the 4-star Viareggio Hotel, a few steps from the seafront suitable both for business guests and for couples and families who want a relaxing break. “For this hotel too, we expect a modernisation and restyling of the public areas for around €1 million; these will begin shortly and should be completed by the end of December 2023."
Published in Business
Italy is strong competition
As the world of international tourism came together at the WTM, the Italian Pavilion was one of the largest and attracted a lot of attention, proving once again that Italy’s appeal is universal and evergreen. Giovanni Toti, governor of the Liguria region, speaking at the show said: “Our pavilion is beautiful and showcases a country that knows how to bring together all its excellences while promoting its differences and peculiarities. This way it shows tourists that in just a few kilometres we can go from the beauty of Venice, Portofino, and the Dolomites to the islands, and this allows us to compete with the big brands.”
Noleggiare.it - the Team at WTM London
High expectations for the WTM
Mauro Acquati of Noleggiare said that expectations for the show were very high. “After an excellent 2023 we are working with our inbound operator partners for 2024. This year in particular the American and Canadian markets have been very important."
Massimo Diana, commercial director of OTA VIAGGI Tour Operator and Federico Scaramucci, president of Inside Marche Live
The WTM is a show with an 18-month vision
Also satisfied by the large turnout were Massimo Diana, commercial director of OTA VIAGGI Tour Operator and Federico Scaramucci, president of Inside Marche Live "The WTM has always represented an 18-month vision. We are already projecting ourselves onto the three-year period 2024 - 2026 and this is also the reason why Ota Viaggi is here at this show today," said Diana."
Good opportunities for relaunching tourism in Italy
Scaramucci added, " Inside Marche Live, the association of inbound tour operators in the Marche region, is here today because we believe in the English market, and more generally because this is the most important fair on a European level. We are here with our operators to promote the Marche and we are seeing good opportunities for relaunching tourism in our region and beyond.”
Glamour and Italian Gourmet during the Trenitalia exclusive WTM Party at the Sky Garden London
Elisabetta Gutterer of Trentino Marketing
The Italian regions were in the spotlight
The Trentino region was also present at the show with the aim of increasing its share of internationalization. “2023 was positive, it was the year of recovery that saw us back in the running. We are certainly satisfied, but we want to do more,” said Elisabetta Gutterer of Trentino Marketing, adding that next year their attention will be on the Scandinavian markets, France and Spain. “And we will also look overseas, especially to the United States and Canada without, of course, neglecting the rest of the world.
Published in MICE & Events
Renew, get back in the game, set a new course. Dimsi, a Sicilian company, founded in 1985 and deeply rooted in the world of hôtellerie and incoming tourism, has consolidated its position as a leader among Sicilian tour operators over the last decade. This can be attributed to Julian Zappalà, the enterprising scion of the industry who, in 2014, took on the challenge of reshaping the company's destiny.
Julian Zappalà
Now general manager of Dimsi Incoming Operators - Dimensione Sicilia, Zappalà shares his perspective on the company's evolution: "My team and I embarked on a journey of rejuvenation, crafting a forward-looking, digital, and smart project. We specialize in curating tailor-made travel experiences, personalized to the dreams and desires of our clients. Sicily, with its multifaceted beauty, serves as the canvas for our adventures."
Indeed, Dimsi offers an array of unique experiences, from sharing a meal with a Sicilian family to sensory escapades and adventurous activities on the awe-inspiring Mount Etna which is Europe’s most active volcano. They also offer exclusive boat charters to the Aeolian Islands, each experience custom-crafted to meet the client's vision. "Specializing in bespoke travel itineraries for groups and individuals, thematic tours, luxury travel, incentive trips, and conferences, we serve a global clientele with unmatched competence, professionalism, and enthusiasm," Zappalà affirms.
The core mission of Dimsi Group is to transform traveling into an unforgettable experience on Italy’s second-largest island. “Among our signature offerings the guided tours under the Sicilian Secrets brand have weekly departures and diverse itineraries. They can also be combined with other splendid regions of southern Italy, such as Puglia and Campania as well as with the Amalfi coast, Lazio, and even Malta. Dimsi's repertoire extends to eco-tours with rental cars, self-drive adventures, gulet cruises to the Aeolian Islands, and a plethora of holiday ideas catering to every traveler's needs and preferences.”
The Group's commitment to the hotel industry is a pivotal facet of its multifaceted portfolio. It has four business-oriented properties, all strategically positioned around the key tourist hubs of Sicily: the Ibis Styles Palermo President, the Catania Acireale, and the Palermo Cristal which are all part of the same franchise. Then there is the Saracen Sands Hotel & Congress Centre in Isola delle Femmine, a coastal gem which underwent a grand makeover in 2016. With its stunning seafront location, lush gardens, and state-of-the-art congress center, it ranks among the largest hotels in Sicily. To explore the world of Dimsi and discover the unparalleled travel experiences it offers, visit www.dimensionedìsicilia.com
Published in Tour operator
World Travel Market 2023 will reveal the latest worldwide trends with its Global Report to be released at the first day of the show on Monday 6 November.
A spotlight on emerging and growing destinations for 2024 and beyond
The exclusive WTM Global Travel Report, compiled in association with renowned researchers at Oxford Economics company Tourism Economics, shows how leisure travellers’ needs and desires are changing – and shines a spotlight on emerging and growing destinations for 2024 and beyond.
WTM 2022
“Ensuring delegates stay ahead in the travel sector”
“We’re thrilled to launch the first ever WTM Global Travel Report. It demonstrates our commitment to ensuring the travel community have the freshest insight into trends shaping the sector and will support discussions, meetings and planning taking place during the three days at WTM,- said Juliette Losardo, WTM London Exhibition Director. - The worldwide outlook and vast, informative findings will give delegates invaluable insights to ensure they stay ahead in the travel sector.”
WTM 2022An in-depth look at the market and forecasts for 2024
The Global Report will detail how the market has fared in 2023 and forecasts how domestic and international leisure travel will develop in 2024, delving into the drivers of demand in this post-pandemic era, examining how and why travellers are prioritizing their holidays above other types of expenditure, and considering the outlook for different demographics. The authors have also studied issues affecting the travel trade, which has had to deal with crises such as wildfires, strikes and staff shortages while the sector has rebounded.
Published in MICE & Events
The perfect way to make a tranquil escape from the bustle of the Eternal City is to head for Lazio’s lakes.
Lake Bracciano, the jewel of Lazio
When one thinks of Rome, images of historic sites, bustling streets, and ancient architecture come to mind. Few visitors to the Eternal City are aware of the serene and picturesque lakes that lie just a short drive away. They are a delightful contrast to the city and provide an idyllic opportunity to relax and recharge, with their medieval towns and historic castles, water sports and serene landscapes. Just 32 kilometers northwest of Rome, Lake Bracciano is the second-largest lake in the Lazio region nestled within the Bracciano and Martignano Regional Park. Visitors can explore the charming lakeside town of Bracciano and its well-preserved medieval Orsini-Odescalchi Castle. This is a popular wedding venue and has been featured in numerous films. The lake offers opportunities for sailing, windsurfing, kayaking and swimming during the summer months.
Lake Bolsena is a volcanic wonder
Lake Bolsena lies to the south of Rome and is Italy's largest volcanic lake. Its crystal-clear waters and volcanic beaches make it a popular destination for swimmers and sunbathers. The town of Bolsena is a charming and historic destination known for its Etruscan and Roman heritage, and the stunning Basilica of Santa Cristina, houses precious religious art. Lake Bolsena offers fishing and water sports opportunities and is famous for its fish-based cuisine, particularly the local specialty, the pesce alla marinara seafood stew.
Lake Nemi nd Lake Albano are two hidden gems
Lesser known but equally enchanting, Lake Nemi is nestled in the Alban Hills, about 30 kilometers southeast of Rome. This small volcanic crater lake is surrounded by lush forests and provides a peaceful retreat for those in search of tranquility. The picturesque village of Nemi overlooks the lake and is famous for its annual Strawberry Festival that celebrates the local strawberry harvest. Lake Albano is another beautiful volcanic crater lake just 20 kilometers southeast of Rome and is a favourite getaway for Romans. The town of Castel Gandolfo ,which is perched above the lake, is known for the Papal Palace and its beautiful gardens, where the Popes traditionally spend their summers. Visitors can enjoy recreational activities like swimming, sailing, and hiking, or simply relax by the lakeside, enjoying the serene surroundings.
Lake Vico is a true natural oasis
Lake Vico northwest of Rome, is a volcanic lake nestled in the Cimini Mountains and is part of the Lago di Vico nature reserve which is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Surrounded by dense forests, this area is perfect for hiking and bird-watching. Water sports are also popular, with opportunities for sailing, canoeing, and windsurfing.The town of Ronciglione, situated on the lake's eastern shore, is a charming medieval village with well-preserved architecture and a welcoming atmosphere.
Published in On the road
The TrEno is a historic train with vintage carriages for journeys through Piedmont’s Langhe-Monferrato and Roero region with its wine-producing traditions.
Stops to explore towns and to visit museums and wineries
Traveling on a historic train is always a fantastic experience, and on the TrEno Langhe-Monferrato and Roero historic train passengers are taken on a journey through beautiful landscapes, protected by UNESCO. There are stops to explore charming towns and museums, visit wineries and also the possibility of taking e-bikes to discover the environs.
Travelling in vintage carriages
The TrEno train crosses hills dotted with little towns that are packed with history and traditions, as well as rows of vineyards that produce some of the best wines in the world, on its journey of discovery of the natural and artistic wonders of this renowned part of Piedmont. The journey is in vintage carriages of the FondazioneFS Centoporte which served between 1928 and 1980 and have preserved their unique charm of days long past.
Storymover guides narrate the journey
The TrEno departs Turin’s Porta Nuova station, and can also be boarded at Asti, Bra and Asti depending on the itineraries that end at Canelli, Nizza Monferraro, Castagnole delle Lanze and Neive, and Acqui Terme for departures in 2024 and 2025. On the full-day journeys, of around two hours in each direction, guests on board are joined by Storymover guides who narrate the journey and the history and many peculiarities of the changing landscapes. An aperitif with Asti Spumante or Moscato accompanied by Amaretti di Mombaruzzo biscuits is offered on board. 
A visit to the UNESCO Underground Cathedral tunnels
At the planned stops the passengers alight and can take guided tours to places of interest like the UNESCO Underground Cathedrals. These 20 kilometres of tunnels, some 32 metres deep, were dug into the tufa stone under the town of Canelli between the 17th and 19th centuries, and today they house countless thousands of barrels and bottles of the best wines produced in the area.
Canelli, a medieval town home to sparkling wine
Canelli is the world capital of Moscato muscatel wine and here in 1865 the first Italian sparkling wine was made by Carlo Gancia. With a medieval layout around the ancient Castle, the town’s economy is based on the processing of sparkling wine and Moscato, and it is home to many historic wineries including Gancia, Bosca, Bocchino, Contract and Coppo.
For information: https://trenolmr.com
Published in Transportation
The expansion plans of the Bulgarella Group envisages a new 5-star hotel in Milan with developments also in Rome.
A 108-room hotel with two restaurants
In Milan, the company is in the process of negotiating with the municipality for the acquisition of a property in Via Dogana called Secondo Arengario. “If the operation goes ahead – explains general director Ray Lo Faso, – the idea is to create a 5-star, 108-room hotel with two restaurants, and meeting rooms.”
Ray Lo Faso
“We need to reach a certain critical mass, of five to seven hotels”
The group started as a real estate company with a strong hospitality vocation, will manage the hotel directly, and the development will go towards fulfilling the brands hotel project. “At the moment we directly manage Room of Andrea in Trapani, a 60-room hotel in Val d'Erice and the 90-room Viareggio Hotel in Tuscany – continues Lo Faso - we need to reach a certain critical mass, estimated to be five to seven hotels.”
Covid has changed work practices
Ambitious projects, which are also based on a decidedly positive season, which saw urban hotels register important numbers. “We can no longer speak of a bubble, but of a phenomenon destined to last over time, capable of supporting average rates and employment, – says Lo Faso. - Covid has not only changed consumer priorities but also work practices, today people are often able to work wherever they are. And all this is having more than positive repercussions on the entire hotel industry."
Published in Hospitality
Aerolineas Argentinas has nearly recovered enough to match 2019 traffic levels, both globally and in Italy.
From 5 to 6 weekly flights in June 2024
Claudio Neri, Italy general manager of the airline, explains: “In the period January-September 2023 we transported 69,443 passengers on the Italian market, a figure which represents a recovery of 56% (compared to 2019 figures), with an occupancy of 87% which is a percentage point more than 2019. The progression is constant as demonstrated by the numbers for September alone, with 11,443 passengers, equal to a recovery of 74% on the same month in 2019 and a 97% occupancy.
” In the wake of this positive performance, "an increase in frequencies on the Rome-Buenos Aires route is planned, from June 2024 they will rise from the current five to six weekly flights."
“The objective for the end of 2023 is 3,000,000 passengers”
"MICE traffic is also showing positive signs; we already have groups booked for the first months of 2024." Aerolineas Argentinas guarantees connections to Rome from all over Italy thanks to agreements with ITA Airways and Trenitalia. From Buenos Aires there are connections throughout South America, as well as a network of 39 destinations within Argentina. On a global level the international market posted 2,123,397 passengers in the first nine months of 2023, 82% of 2019 numbers and with a load factor of 84% (+9% points on 2019). “The objective for the end of 2023 is 3,000,000 passengers.”
Published in Transportation
Sardinia, a trailblazer in tourism and eco-sustainable accommodation, is once again pioneering a new concept in hospitality: the nautical scattered hotel.
Sardinia was the first region to introduce the scattered hotel
Following its distinction as the first Italian region to formally recognise the albergo diffuso or scattered hotel (with rooms located in various buildings throughout a community or small town) in 1998, Sardinia is now introducing a ground-breaking concept: the albergo nautico diffuso or scattered nautical hotel.
Staying on the land and on the sea
Enabled by the modification of a regional law this innovative accommodation facility integrates land services, including reception, registration, customer assistance, and standard hotel services. At the same time the nautical scattered hotel offers guests the unique opportunity to explore the captivating beauty of Sardinia's coasts on boats that can move within a three-mile radius from their port location, limited to daylight hours.
“We are once again in the lead, both in Italy and in the world”
The nautical scattered hotel will consist of at least seven craft, providing a minimum of fifty beds "in the cabin." The rental contracts for these facilities will range from a minimum of 24 hours to a maximum of four weeks, and will offer guests a truly exclusive experience. Giovanni Chessa, Sardinia’s regional councillor for tourism, crafts, and commerce, commenting on the significance of this new type of accommodation said: “By introducing this new facility Sardinia shows that it knows how to be a benchmark for Italian tourism. By standardizing new hospitality frontiers we are once again in the lead, both in Italy and in the world.”
Sardinia is at the top of the international tourist wish list
This approach is reaping the benefits, with an increase in arrivals which this year are at 6,377,247 (in ports and airports) compared to 6,005,971 in 2022, thus reasserting Sardinia's position at the top of the international tourist wish list. For information: www.sardegnaturismo.it
Published in Cities & Regions
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