The Botanical Garden of Padua, or Orto Botanico di Padova, is a journey through science and nature, and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.  

The circular plot is surrounded by water

This garden holds the distinction of being the world’s oldest university botanical garden, having been established in 1545. Its iconic design features a circular central plot surrounded by a ring of water, reflecting the Renaissance-era vision of the world. Down the centuries ornamental entrances and wrought-iron gates were added, but the Garden has maintained its original purpose as a center for scientific research and a testament to the enduring relationship between science, culture, and nature.  

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Less than an hour from Venice

Reaching the garden is convenient whether traveling by air, train, or car. The nearest major airport is Venice Marco Polo, situated about 40 kilometers away, from where trains and buses depart for Padua. The city’s central train station offers regular services from Venice, Milan, and Bologna, and for those traveling by car, the A4 motorway leads directly to Padua,  

The garden is beautiful all year round

Visitors can immerse themselves in a world of over 6,000 plant species, ranging from medicinal plants to rare and exotic specimens. The historic circular layout is crisscrossed by symmetrical pathways, and the library and herbarium house more than 50,000 volumes and manuscripts, while tin he modern greenhouses the focus is on conservation and plants from tropical and desert climates.  Spring and early summer, particularly from April to June, are the best times to experience the garden’s vibrant beauty, while in September and October it offers a cooler atmosphere.

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So many things to see in Padua

It is well worth spending time in Padua for its wealth of cultural and historical attractions. These include the Scrovegni Chapel with Giotto’s magnificent frescoes. This chapel is one of the eight buildings in the city with frescoes that have gained UNESCO status.  The Basilica of Saint Anthony houses many personal relics of the saint in its Treasury and attracts pilgrims from all over Italy and the world. The city also has the famous Caffè Pedrocchi, known as the “café without doors” as, until the early 20th century, it remained open 24/7. The signature drink is the Pedrocchi Coffee, a creamy espresso served with mint cream and dusted with cocoa, and it also serves pastries, light means and cocktails, welcoming patrons throughout the day. 

Just a short drive or train ride north of Rome, there is a stunning array of hiking, walking, and trekking trails that showcase the beauty of the Lazio region.

Discovering Italy’s pre-Roman history

For those seeking to escape the Eternal City’s hustle, or embark on a scenic adventure, these routes provide the perfect opportunity to connect with nature while getting some exercise. Onecaptivating trek is to the Necropolis and Waterfalls of Cerveteri. Only about an hour’s drive from Rome, Cerveteri is home to the ancient ruins of Caere, an Etruscan town, and a visit here offers a fascinating journey into Italy's pre-Roman history and a chance to explore various types of Etruscan tombs. 

Waterfalls and archaeological sites

As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Cerveteri’s necropolis is beautifully restored and nature buffs can enjoy a scenic hike along the Via degli Inferi, continuing toward the Necropolis of Laghetto. The highlight of this trek is the Cerveteri Falls, a hidden gem with cascading water and a peaceful natural environment, and Cerveteri also has plenty of restaurants in which to enjoy the tasty local cuisine. The trek begins on a dirt track just outside Cerveteri, leading to the Banditaccia archaeological site, and the route back is along the same path.

Necropoli of Cerveteri

Monte Soratte’s panoramic vistas

Another beautiful hike not far from Rome is to the summit and hermitages of Monte Soratte, often referred to as “The Balcony of Rome" for its panoramic 360-degree vistas. The hike offers a mix of rugged terrain and serene surroundings, and one of its highlights is the bunker used by Field Marshal Kesselring during WWII, which can be explored through guided tours of the tunnels.  This trail offers stunning views over the Tiber Valley and takes just over three hours, covering a distance of five kilometers and, when it’s time for a break, the nearby town of Sant'Oreste offers several charming restaurants and bars.

The Park of Veio and Mount Calvio

For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the Ring of Monte Calvio and Casalaccio in the Park of Veio, is a gentle trek through Lazio's beautiful countryside. Just 40 minutes from Rome, this park has a variety of hiking trails that pass through dense woods and open meadows. One of the most serene hikes is to the Monte Calvio mountain with wonderful views over the Roman countryside. This trail is almost completely flat, making it perfect for families or those looking for a simple walk surrounded by history, and it is just is six kilometers long, taking around two hours to complete. Getting there is no problem as it is a short drive from Rome to the town of Magliano Romano, and to the trail’s starting point near the Ostello di Veio hostel. These three different trails a stone’s throw from the Eternal City offer a unique way to experience the beauty of Lazio, with historical landmarks, peaceful natural settings, and scenic views that make them ideal for hiking enthusiasts. 

In the Gulf of Naples, lying just 20 miles west of Capri, Ischia offers beaches, nature and off-island adventures.

Less than two hours by boat from Naples 

With its extraordinary blend of natural beauty, cultural treasures, and timeless charm, Ischia is also known for its therapeutic thermal waters and lush landscapes, inviting visitors to unwind, explore, and savor life at its most enchanting.   Ferries and hydrofoils leave Naples, and other points along the coast regularly, carrying passengers across sparkling waters to Ischia in less than two hours. Approaching the island, its rugged cliffs, colorful ports, and towering Mount Epomeo, both first-time and return visitors are greeted with a promise of adventures and relaxation.  

Historic churches and an imposing fortress

A must-visit is the Aragonese Castle, an imposing fortress perched on a rocky islet connected to the town of Ischia Ponte by a narrow causeway. The island is also home to many churches, each with its own story like the Chiesa del Soccorso in Forio with its whitewashed exterior set against dramatic sea views, and the 18th-century Cathedral of Santa Maria della Assunta in Ischia Porto which can boast many artistic treasures.  

Golden sands and thermal pools

Ischia is a place to slow down, breathe deeply, and experience the Mediterranean at its most stunning, and for those seeking the sun Ischia’s beaches are as diverse as its landscapes. Maronti Beach, near the village of Sant’Angelo, is among the most popular, with its long stretch of golden sand and natural hot springs bubbling up nearby. Forio’s Citara Beach is home to the famed Poseidon Thermal Gardens, a luxurious retreat with a series of thermal pools while the San Montano Beach near Lacco Ameno enchants visitors with its calm, shallow waters and lush surroundings, and is a popular choice with families.  

From luxury spa resorts to family guesthouses 

Excursions from Ischia add another layer to its allure. It is possible to take day trips to Procida, its smaller, equally charming neighbour, or explore the wonders of Capri. And for nature lovers, a hike up Mount Epomeo rewards them with panoramic views stretching from the Amalfi Coast to Mount Vesuvius, Naples famous volcano.   Neither is Ischia lacking in culinary delights, from fresh seafood like Spaghetti alle Vongole to Rabbit alla Cacciatora, a local specialty steeped in tradition to be paired with a glass of the island’s Biancolella wine for an unforgettable dining experience. Accommodation options range from luxurious spa resorts to intimate family-run guesthouses and holiday apartments. 

Just a two-hour drive from Rome Amatrice, a small town in the province of Rieti, is universally admired for its resilience, rich flavors and beautiful landscapes.   

A town famous for its Amatriciana pasta

Known worldwide for its iconic Pasta all’Amatriciana, Amatrice which is in the Lazio region not far from the border with Abruzzo, is much more than its culinary fame. It is a place where the effects of nature’s forces - both the beauty of the landscape and the tragic impact of an earthquake - tell a story of resilience and recovery. The journey from Rome to Amatrice takes a couple of hours by car, making it an easy day trip or weekend getaway from the Eternal City. 

A dish to be tried in its most authentic form

Amatrice’s fame stems from its signature dish, the famous Pasta all'Amatriciana made with a sauce of pork cheek, tomatoes, and Pecorino cheese, which is one of the most admired symbols of Lazio’s culinary heritage. Local restaurants and trattorias serve up the dish in its most authentic form, often with ingredients sourced from the surrounding region. The dish, however, represents more than just food; it’s a testament to the town’s cultural legacy.

The town is rebuilding after the earthquake

In 2016, Amatrice shot to global fame for another reason, this time a tragic one, as on the night of August 24, an earthquake of devastating magnitude struck the region, destroying much of the town and the neighboring village of Accumuli.  The destruction was widespread, leaving most of the buildings and homes in ruins, but amid the devastation, the spirit of Amatrice remained unbroken. Today, while the scars of the earthquake are still visible, the town is slowly rebuilding with many of its landmarks and buildings having been restored.

A paradise for nature lovers

Visitors to Amatrice also like to explore the natural beauty that surrounds it. For those seeking nature adventures, the area offers a range of hiking routes suitable for all levels of experience, and for seasoned trekkers, a climb up Monte Gorzano, the highest peak in Lazio at 2,458 meters, provides a challenging yet rewarding experience.   For less experienced hikers, there are plenty of accessible walks through the forest and along streams, particularly towards the waterfalls that cascade through the area in the spring and summer months. 

Commemorating the 2016 earthquake

For a more contemplative experience, the Cammino delle Terre Mutate is a trail dedicated to the memories of the 2016 earthquake, offering not just natural beauty but a deep sense of connection to the past and the rebuilding effort. For information: https://www.amatriceturismo.it

The historic ferry on the banks of the Adda river in the vicinity of Milan, is said to have been designed by Leonardo da Vinci.  

An ideal day-trip destination

Italy is a boundless treasure trove of remarkable art works and groundbreaking inventions, many of which can be found beyond the walls of museums, like the ferry designed over 500 years ago by Leonardo da Vinci. This unique ferry, which is in the town of Imbersago about an hour from Milan - making it an ideal day-trip destination - is believed to have been designed, or at least perfected by da Vinci when the great artist stayed in Vaprio d’Adda.

Easy to reach by car or by train

The ferry is on the river in the town of Imbersago which is conveniently located some northeast of Milan, and can be reached by car or train, with the nearest railway station in Merate just a short drive or bike ride away. Once in Imbersago the ferry can be easily accessed via local walking trails or by following the scenic Naviglio di Paderno canal. The river is home to many wild birds and it is not unusual to come across ducks and swans. 

A living legacy

The steel cable that stretches across the Adda river guides the ferry as it harnesses the natural flow of the water to glide effortlessly from one bank to the other - no motor required. Still operational today, the ferry transports both people and vehicles on the brief crossing, preserving its historical significance as a vital link between the two banks of the river. Its elegant simplicity and eco-friendly operation stand as a testament to timeless innovation, drawing visitors from all over the world.  

What else to see and do    

While the ferry is the star attraction, the area offers plenty to explore. The Adda Nord Park, a sprawling natural reserve, is perfect for hiking, cycling, or picnicking amidst lush greenery. Leonardo enthusiasts will enjoy retracing the artist's steps along the Leonardo Ecomuseum Trail, where they can admire the same landscapes that inspired da Vinci’s work. For history buffs, the Sanctuary of Madonna del Bosco on a hill overlooking the river, provides a serene retreat and a glimpse into the region’s spiritual heritage and food lovers can savor local delicacies in nearby trattorias.

Southern Italy is a focus for easyJet, which launches four new routes for summer 2025: Lyon-Bari, Lyon-Brindisi, Lisbon-Palermo and Paris Orly- Lamezia Terme.

easyJet operates flights on both Bari and Brindisi

Lyon-Bari - which will allow French citizens to discover the wonders of Puglia during the summer season - will be served with three weekly frequencies on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, while between Lyon and Brindisi there will be two weekly flights, on Thursdays and Sundays, from 23 May and 5 June respectively. With these new connections, the number of flights operated by the company to Bari airport rises to seven and those operated to Brindisi to six.

A total of 15 destinations from Palermo

The Lisbon-Palermo will debut next 3 June, with two weekly frlights on Tuesdays and Fridays. Portuguese citizens will have the opportunity to discover Palermo, renowned for its culture, traditional cuisine and iconic places, and other Sicilian locations, such as Mondello with its picture postcard beach and Cefalù, one of the most beautiful towns in Italy. The new flight from the Portuguese capital adds to the 28 routes the carrier operates from Sicily, bringing to 15 the destinations that can be reached from Palermo, including Palma de Mallorca, another recent addition to the airline's portfolio of destinations to the Sicilian capital.

Lamezia Terme will have flights to 5 European cities

Lamezia Terme, on the other hand, will see the launch of a new twice-weekly route tfrom Paris Orly, the French capital's city airport: this new service will be available from 21 May with two weekly flights on Wednesdays and Saturdays. French travellers will thus have a direct connection with Calabria, allowing them to discover the wonders of the region: breathtaking views, unspoilt beaches and a rich cultural heritage. The route is in addition to the service to Nice, launched on 11 December. The two new routes from France bring to 5 the destinations to and from Lamezia Terme airport to Italy and Europe.

easyJet will operate from 18 Italian airports next summer

easyJet will thus be operating over 250 connections to and from 18 Italian airports during the summer of 2025.

“There are continuous novelties in easyJet's network and many of these concern Italy, this time Southern Italy in particular,- said Lorenzo Lagorio, easyJet Italy country manager.  -Thanks to the new flights, which are already on sale, the connections available to our passengers increase, also making the beauty of these regions more accessible to international tourism.”

High above the sparkling Ionian Sea, history meets beauty in the Roman Theatre in Taormina, a testament to Sicily's rich tapestry.

Greek and Roman origins 

This ancient amphitheater, known locally as the Teatro Antico di Taormina (Ancient Theatre of Taormina), draws visitors from around the world with its breathtaking views, remarkable acoustics, and stories carved into every stone. Dating back to the 3rd century B.C., the theatre was originally constructed by the Greeks, but Romans later expanded and enhanced it to accommodate thrilling spectacles such as gladiatorial contests and public events. 

A cable car leads up to Taormina

Reaching this iconic ancient theatre is an experience in itself. Taormina is perched on a hilltop in eastern Sicily, and easily accessible from major cities such as Catania and Messina, both around 30 miles away, and both with major international airports.  A scenic drive along winding roads reveals enchanting coastal views, and for the final ascent to the town, a cable car provides a convenient and picturesque journey.

The theatre is still used for performances

Entering the theatre visitors are struck by the grandeur of its setting. The semi-circular seating area, which could hold up to 10,000 people, is carved into the hillside and the sea stretches endlessly toward the horizon with Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano, often emitting plumes of smoke, and dominating the landscape. Thanks to its tiered seating, designed to amplify sound naturally, even the faintest whisper from the stage can still be heard clearly by the audience. This acoustic mastery has ensured the theatre remains a vibrant cultural venue, hosting summer concerts, operas, and the prestigious Taormina Film Festival. 

From the beach to the volcano 

Beyond the theatre, Taormina offers an array of delights to explore. The town’s medieval streets are lined with boutiques, cafes, and historic buildings, including the charming Piazza IX Aprile, a sunlit square with sweeping views of the coastline. A short journey from Taormina brings visitors to other iconic sites, such as the ancient city of Naxos, considered the first Greek colony in Sicily and the more modern Giardini Naxos which is a popular beach resort, while for those seeking adventure excursions Mount Etna offers an unforgettable experience. 

The increasing use of AI and automation in the hotel industry has raised questions about the future role of general managers. While innovations such as contactless check-ins and hotel apps enhance operational efficiency, the essential role of general managers - or GMs as they are known - in ensuring seamless operations and delivering outstanding guest experiences has not changed.  

The question was raised by Travel Daily News which reported that although algorithms and data-driven systems now handle many traditional GM responsibilities, the unique value of human interaction continues to define the hospitality industry. But, it warned, GMs need to bridge the divide between technology and the human touch with adaptability, technical proficiency, and strong interpersonal skills. 

So, while AI can never replace the human empathy and intuition fundamental to hospitality, and as long as travelers value personalized connections and tailored services, the role of the GM is more than assured.

Pamela McCourt Francescone
Executive Editor

In the heart of Rome’s vibrant Trastevere district entering the Santa Maria della Scala Pharmacy is like stepping back in time.

A quiet witness to centuries of tradition

In the Trastevere neighborhood with its cobblestone streets, quaint piazzas, and lively atmosphere, the historic Spezeria Santa Maria della Scala pharmacy is a quiet witness to centuries of innovation, tradition, and healing.   Housed within the former monastery of the Discalced Carmelites, this ancient pharmacy is just a stone’s throw from the Basilica of Santa Maria della Scala in Trastevere, a quarter next to the Tiber river which blends old-world charm with artistic vibrancy.

It was known as the “Pharmacy of the Popes”

The building’s façade is modest, but once inside visitors are transported back to a time when remedies were hand-crafted from nature’s bounty. The friars who founded the pharmacy in the late 1500s were true pioneers, cultivating medicinal plants in the monastery’s gardens and turning them into potions, ointments, and other remedies. These concoctions were not only used to treat their fellow monks but also provided healing to the local community. By the late 17th century, the Spezieria di S. Maria della Scala had become so prestigious that it served an elite clientele, including the nobility, church leaders, and even the papal court, giving it its nickname the “Pharmacy of the Popes.”   

Visits are available by appointment

Today the Spezieria is preserved as a living museum of ancient apothecary practices. Visits, available by appointment, allow guests to explore its rich interior. The space retains its old-world charm, with shelves filled with antique jars labeled in elegant Latin script, and  hand-carved cabinets, and visitors can even see the "recipe books" used by the friars, filled with beautifully handwritten instructions for creating their famous cures.   For anyone with an interest in history, medicine, or simply the stories that make Rome so endlessly fascinating, the Spezieria di Santa Maria della Scala offers a rare and intimate glimpse into the practices and beliefs that shaped centuries of healthcare in the Eternal City.