New Zealand’s Dunedin Airport recently turned heads with an unexpected appeal to travellers, asking them to limit their public displays of affection. A sign now greets flyers, their friends and family with the directive to "observe a maximum hug time of three minutes."

For those who crave a more lingering farewell, the sign suggests relocating to the airport car park. Daniela De Bono, the airport's director, explains that the quirky suggestion is meant to be a lighthearted way of keeping the airport's foot traffic flowing smoothly, but it does raise an intriguing question. 

Isn’t three minutes a rather generous hug allowance? After all, that’s ample time to boil an egg or deliver a pitch for a new startup. And in this era of high-speed everything, how many people really indulge in a full 180-second embrace?
 

Pamela McCourt Francescone
Executive Editor

A new Bike Corner, the first innovative space dedicated to cycling and bikepacking enthusiasts, has made its debut in Terminal 2 of Milan Malpensa Airport.

The new Bike Corner has all the necessary equipment

The corner - accessible 24/7 and completely free of charge - allows passengers to assemble their bike comfortably and safely immediately after their arrival at Malpensa. Equipped with professional tools and all the necessary equipment, the Bike Corner is a concrete response to the needs of those travelling with disassembled bicycles.

Encouraging active and ecological lifestyles

The new service is part of SEA Aeroporti di Milano's strategy to promote green solutions, encouraging active and ecological lifestyles. Thanks to its strategic location, the Bike Corner makes it possible to set off directly from the airport to discover the many cycle paths and unique landscapes surrounding the Malpensa area, with the support, as a technical partner, of #VareseDoYouBike, a cycle tourism development project promoted by the Varese Chamber of Commerce.

Routes with all levels of difficulty

There are 45 itineraries mapped so far and available for download on the Komoot platform, over 2,000 kilometres of routes mapped out by cycling guides and enjoyable by all, according to the different levels of difficulty. From routes for families to others for all-round cycling enthusiasts, and still others for those seeking a competitive adrenaline rush. Thanks to #VareseDoYouBike, the Varese Chamber of Commerce is acting in synergy with local authorities, operators and trade associations with the aim of building a cycle tourism system as a new element in the promotion of the Land of Lakes.

Just thinking of Rome is enough to make you want to pack a bag and head for the airport, because the Eternal City has a vibe like no other. An original way to discover the city is to blend its classical sights with countryside charm, touring the city and the Ostia Antica archaeological site and then the countryside of the Alban Hills. And as a bonus you can get to stay in Dolce Vita style either at the fabulous Sina Bernini Bristol or the chic Donna Laura Palace.

So, you’ve checked in – either in the Sina Bernini Bristol with its swanky rooftop views or the Donna Laura Palace by the Tiber river - and are ready to go!   First stop, the Colosseum. Sure, you’ve seen it in pictures and in the movies, but nothing prepares you for standing in front of the greatest of all Rome’s landmarks. Stroll on to the Roman Forum where in olden days toga-clad senators used to gather and discuss affairs of state.

Feeling peckish?  Stop for an espresso in the Caffè Sant’Eustachio for the best coffee in town and stroll to another of Rome’s best-loved landmarks, the Trevi Fountain, which is currently without water as it is under repair for the 2025 Holy Jubilee Year. Skip a formal lunch and opt for an ice cream at Giolitti which is a top favorite, then on to the Spanish Steps to take some selfies. For dinner the choice is between a plate of Carbonara or a Cacio e Pepe at a traditional trattoria like Il Falchetto or Roscioli.

The next morning take a train or a car up to the Castelli Romani’s charming hill towns. Start in Frascati, which is famous for its crisp white wines, and take a vineyard tour with a stop for a mid-morning snack of the local porchetta roast pork. In nearby Castel Gandolfo you can tour the Pope’s summer residence, then on to Grottaferrata and Villa Cavalletti, a country estate with vineyards and olive groves. After an alfresco lunch do an olive oil tasting in the Villino Rosso Museum, and a guided tour of the famous Tusculum Villas, built by aristocratic families in the 1800s and once part of the Grand Tour.  For dinner the nearby Grazioli Art Bistrot hits all the right spots.

Spend your last morning in Ostia Antica, an ancient Roman harbor town just a short train ride from the city. You’ll be amazed by how well-preserved its ruins are. And the best part is that Ostia Antica is like Pompeii but without the crowds!  Back in Rome it’s time for lunch in Trastevere, a quaint old district with cobbled lanes, ivy-clad buildings, and trattorias with tables spilling onto the streets.

Spend your last few hours picking up leather goods and artisan products around Campo de’ Fiori, or, if you’re staying in the Sina Bernini Bristol chill out on the rooftop terrace with its panoramic views, while those in the Donna Laura Palace will relax in its quieter vibe.

Back home and you’re still dreaming of your love affair with Rome’s history, food, and lifestyle? We’re guessing you’re already planning to return. Rome was not built in a day and there is still so much you’ve got to see.  So, Arrivederci Roma!

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Ostia Antica, the ancient harbour-city AND Rome's best answer to Pompeii, is an under-visited archaeological site and not to be missed.

Half an hour by train from Rome

Ostia Antica is really quite easy to reach from the capital, being just some 30 kilometres away.  Trains that depart from  the station beside the pyramid of Caius Cestius takes less than half an hour to Ostia Antica, and the stop is right beside the  entrance to the site. This ancient harbour-city which, at its height had over 100,000 inhabitants, was Rome’s first maritime  port and an important naval and trading base, built by the emperor Claudius in 42 A.D.  Close to what is now Rome’s  international Fiumicino Airport, it was originally on the coast, but the silting up of the Tiber river down the centuries means  that today the Ostia Antica Archaeological Park is four kilometres inland.


 

An example of what an ancient Roman city looked like

Not to be confused with the little borgo (town) of Ostia Antica which is a five-minute walk away and developed around the medieval  Castle of Pope Julius II, the 10,000-acre archaeological park with the old Roman town and port have been excavated and there is a  lot to see.  While it is less grand than Pompeii, what makes it quite unique is that it is one of the best examples of what an ancient  Roman town looked like.  In fact it is possible to see the layout and the distinct parts of the city such as the business district, the  apartment buildings and the aristocratic villas exactly where they were originally built. 

The theatre is the symbol of Ostia Antica

Many of the buildings have been preserved up to the second floor, adding to the sense of what the city really looked like, and there  are remains of mosaic floors and columns throughout the site.  The Decumanus maximum which was the ancient main street has  religious buildings, shops and warehouses, and the forum, or main square, has the remains of a large temple. Ostia Antica’s most  symbolic building is the theatre and it is still used for concerts and performances during the summer months. 

Ostia Lido is a modern seaside resort

The modern town of Ostia, called Ostia Lido, a few kilometres west of the park is on the sea. It is a cement jungle with modern  apartment blocks, but thanks to its many private lido beaches, and large public stretch of golden sand,  it is a very popular summer resort for Romans. 



For information: www.ostiaantica.beniculturali.it

In winter, outdoor swimming pools transform into serene retreats where you can escape the chill and delight in magic moments.

The Alagna Mountain Resort & SPA

In the crisp winter air, outdoor swimming pools offer a unique escape from everyday stress, inviting you to connect with nature and savor the subtle beauty that cold weather brings. Each splash becomes a celebration of tranquility, turning simple pleasures into cherished memories.

In Piedmont, in the heart of Alagna Valsesia, a village of ancient traditions, the outdoor swimming pool of the Alagna Mountain Resort & SPA is heated to 31 degrees and overlooks the majestic Monte Rosa massif. For those not staying at the hotel it is accessible as a Spa Day and it has a Finnish sauna, aromatherapy steam bath, emotional showers, massage cabins, and is only 300 metres from the Monterosa Ski lift. www.alagnaresort.com

The Excelsior Dolomites Life Resort 

In the Alto Adige region the rooftop of the Sky Spa at the Excelsior Dolomites Life Resort  overlooks the Dolomite mountain range and is a perfect choice for relaxation in complete harmony with nature.  The adults-only infinity pool with water at 33 degrees dominates the rooftops of San Vigilio di Marebbe (BZ ) with views of the imposing peaks for an immersive and truly suggestive experience. There is also  the brand new Dolomites Family Spa with a swimming pool, a waterfall and a children's pool with a slide, abuffet area and saunas for adults and children, as well as a large outdoor whirlpool with 35 degree water. https://www.myexcelsior.com/

OLM SPA - ph credits Hannes Niederkofler

The OLM Nature Escape in the South Tyrol

The OLM Nature Escape, South Tyrol's first completely energy self-sufficient sustainable eco-aparthotel, is a gem set in Caminata di Tures in the Ahrntal Valley (BZ). The pure, mineral-rich water pours into the wellness area, built with respectful use of natural resources and powered by green energy. The indoor and outdoor pools are open daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. https://www.olm.it/it/


Laghi Nabi Water SPA ph Aquilante

The Laghi Nabi resort is close to Naples 

At Laghi Nabi, in Castel Volturno (CE) about 20 miles from Naples, nature and wellbeing coexist in harmony, in this eco-sustainable oasis where nature traces a path through which body and mind can rejoice with renewed energy. The Water SPA is a voyage of discovery of inner balance, with wellness paths and treatments created to regenerate the senses and allow the beneficial power of water to be fully enjoyed. The pool overlooks the lake and has a temperature of 35 degrees. Entrance is included for all resort residents, and it can also be enjoyed without a stay with daily admission to the Nabi Water SPA. https://laghinabi.it/

ItaliAbsolutely and Travel Show Marketing Group (TravelSMG) are pleased to announce a new strategic partnership designed to showcase Italy to premier U.S.-based leisure travel agents.

Bringing influential US-based agents to Italy

As part of this collaboration, ItaliAbsolutely and TravelSMG will organize trips that bring influential U.S.-based travel agents to Italy, allowing them to personally experience destinations featured by ItaliaAbsolutely’s partners. These immersive journeys will enrich the agents' expertise enabling them to better serve clients eager to explore Italy. Attending agents will have exclusive opportunities to connect with Italian tourism and hospitality businesses, gaining an insider’s view of Italy’s charm, culture, and unique offerings.  

“Building strong connections with travel professionals”

Daniela Battaglioni, General Manager of ItaliAbsolutely, added, “We’re thrilled to welcome these distinguished U.S. travel agents to Italy and showcase our fantastic partners. Collaborating with TravelSMG allows us to highlight our beautiful country in a way that builds strong connections with the travel professionals who shape leisure travel experiences. This alliance benefits our partners and strengthens Italy’s presence in the U.S. travel industry.”

“Empowering agents with authentic experiences”

“This partnership marks an exciting chapter for both of our organizations,” said Jim Cloonan, President of TravelSMG. “By bringing successful U.S. travel agents directly to Italy, we’re empowering them with authentic experiences and in-depth knowledge about Italy’s diverse destinations. With this new awareness, agents will be able to convey their genuine passion for Italy to their clients, ultimately driving travel interest.” The partnership will launch with a series of exclusive events across Italy, showcasing key destinations while also providing agents with unparalleled insights into the country’s history, culture, and scenic landscapes.

About ItaliAbsolutely

ItaliAbsolutely by Travel Quotidiano is a leading Italian B2B travel portal delivering daily news, insights, and stories from Italy to promote the country’s most iconic and hidden-gem destinations to an international audience.  Through collaborations with top industry partners, ItaliAbsolutely provides a platform for Italian travel and hospitality businesses to reach a global network of travel professionals.www.italiabsolutely.com

About Travel Show Marketing Group

Travel Show Marketing Group (TravelSMG) is an independent organization offering solutions that drive success in the B2B leisure vacation market. Since 2009 TravelSMG has partnered with thousands of tourism clients to engage and empower the North American Travel Agent community through education, networking, and global experiences. Their diverse range of engagement solutions includes large-scale trade shows, specialized niche-focused events, and a comprehensive suite of digital opportunities.
www.TravelSMG.com

From the Alpine forests of the Camonica Valley to the lakeshore beaches of Lake Garda, Lake Iseo and Lake Idro, and to rolling hills carpeted with the fine vineyards of Franciacorta and Valtènesi, the province of Brescia (with Bergamo, the Italian Capital of Culture 2023) encompasses an extraordinary variety of landscapes, places and tourist attractions in a mere 150 kilometres.

Lake Garda Desenzano Porto Vecchio Ph Credits: Michele Rossetti

A journey of must-visit destinations, and unforgettable experiences

In the heart of Lombardy, Brescia is easy to access from the A4 Milan-Venice motorway (the exit is about 80 kilometres away), is served by regional and high-speed trains and by four airports, Orio al Serio's Caravaggio, Verona Villafranca's Valerio Catullo, Milan Linate and Milan Malpensa). The province of Brescia is a treasure chest brimming with nature, art, history, culinary pleasures and experiences, offering everyone the chance to carve out their perfect holiday. It also provides guests with rejuvenating holidays centered on green living, nature, active lifestyles, wellness, and culinary delights. A region waiting to be explored through a diverse on-the-road journey, rich in inspiration, must-visit destinations, and unforgettable experiences.

Lake Garda ph credits: Gardalombardia.com

A handsome and authentic city with endless attractions

Brescia is a surprisingly contemporary and trendy city and, together with Bergamo, was the Italian Capital of Culture 2023.  It is a city to be enjoyed in total relaxation, and an ideal destination for those in search of authentic and stimulating places off the beaten track. A cultural tapestry to be discovered by wandering unhurriedly on a fascinating itinerary through squares, palaces, elegant porticoes and extraordinary historical-architectural treasures gracefully enhanced by contemporary artistic interventions. Visitors can shop in elegant boutiques, artisan workshops and concept stores, visit contemporary art galleries and antique shops and enjoy an aperitif or live music in trendy clubs, gourmet fine dining. This and much more awaits them in the historic centre and in the suburbs which have a contemporary vibe.  

Piazza Loggia in Brescia. Ph credits: Dorian Pellumbi

Three historic squares and ancient Roman ruins

No visitor should miss the city’s three historic squares, the medieval Piazza Paolo VI, the Renaissance Piazza della Loggia with its majestic palazzo, and Piazza Vittoria with its rationalist architecture, and then there is the Via Musei with BRIXIA. In the Brescia Roman Archaeological Park (the largest Roman ruins in northern Italy, with the Capitoline Temple you can admire the Winged Victory, an extremely rare large Roman bronze statue) and the Museum of Santa Giulia (with the history of the city from the Bronze Age to the present day) both of which are UNESCO sites, while the Castle that dominates the city from the Cidneo Hill, is one of the most imposing fortifications in Italy.

Lake Iseo. Ph credits: Visit Monte Isola

Three lakes: three different types of holiday

The three lakes of Garda, Iseo and Idro are three very different holiday choices. Lake Garda - the largest lake in Italy - with its shorelines, Art Nouveau villas and an allure that enchanted the likes of Goethe, Mann, Kafka and D.H. Lawrence, has levels of hospitality that attract both Italian and international visitors. Blessed with a mild Mediterranean climate its shores re dotted with villages, castles, monasteries and enchanting towns, such as Sirmione (with the grottoes of Catullus, the most impressive Roman ruins in northern Italy), Desenzano, Lonato, Salò, Gardone Riviera and Limone. The Mediterranean vegetation is extraordinary with olive, lemon and palm trees, and is a perfect setting for green and active holidays in one of the most beautiful spots in Italy. Another main attraction is the Lake Garda cycle path between Limone and the Riva del Garda area.

Aquaria Archivio Terme di Sirmione

Lake Idro is a perfect choice for nature lovers

At an altitude of 368 metres Lake Idro is the perfect refuge for those who prefer holidays in the open air, with campsites and villages equipped for glamping, nature walks, extreme sports and outdoor activities. Caressed by a constant wind that is perfect for sailing, surfing and kitesurfing, it is surrounded by mountains that are the ideal training ground for those who love mountain biking, rock climbing, paragliding, canyoning and fun activities. 

Idro Lake Rocca d'Anfo Visitbrescia

Lake Iseo has Italy’s most beautiful cycle route

Lake Iseo is known as the “Lake of Christo” since summer 2016 when the celebrated artist created his “The Floating Piers,” installation that allowed the public to literally walk on the water to Monte Isola, the highest lake island in Europe which can only be discovered on foot. Lake Iseo is ideal for those who love sailing and windsurfing, but also for anyone looking to relax and enjoy nature and sport. There are many scenic routes for walking and biking, including the lakeside section of the Oglio Cycle Route, voted Italy's most beautiful cycle route at the Italian Green Road Awards.

Capo di Ponte Parco Seradina Bedoline ph Cattabiani

Rolling hills, vineyards and olive groves

Surrounding the lakes are rolling hills carpeted with vineyards and olive groves and dotted with ancient villages, castles and abbeys, such as the hills of Franciacorta that slope down to Lake Iseo and from which come highly prized wines. Then there are the hills of the Garda morainic amphitheatre and those of the Valtènesi, the land of great wines and equally fine oils. And further on, the vast expanses of the plain marked by the course of the Oglio and Chiese rivers, where patrician villas and castles can be admired, and which are ideal for relaxing rides and walks, and holidays in the countryside.

Franciacorta Visit Brescia ph credits: Michele Rossetti

Alpine peaks for mountain sports

Heading north we come to the Alps with the Valle Camonica, Valle Trompia and Valle Sabbia, with their magnificent panoramas. From trekking to mountain biking to cycle touring,  here fans of the one-step-at-a-time movement will find everything they could desire. And in winter there are white sports in the various ski areas, like the Pontedilegno-Tonale..

Comprensorio Pontedilegno-Tonale ph credits: Mauro Mariotti

Nature, history, art and archaeology

The Brescia area has archaeological sites, historic villages, castles, fortifications, parish churches, abbeys, museums and art galleries for all tastes. The first Italian locality on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1979, the “Rock Art of the Camonica Valley” is an extraordinary open-air gallery of over 200,000 catalogued engravings. At no less than 180 sites (the main one being the Naquane National Park at Capo di Ponte) spread over 24 municipalities, the Valle dei Segni spans 12,000 years of history, from the end of the Upper Palaeolithic to the Iron Age.

Valle Camonica Visit Brescia ph credits: Michele Rossetti

An ancient Roman villa and an imposing fortress

Another absolute gem to be discovered on a walking expedition is the Grotte di Catullo in Sirmione, the most magnificent example of a Roman villa so far unearthed in northern Italy. On Lake Garda there is the Vittoriale degli Italiani in Gardone Riviera, the fascinating house-museum of the poet Gabriele D'Annunzio with its beautiful park, and the Rocca di Lonato, one of the most imposing fortresses in northern Italy with an unparalleled view of the lake, as well as the annexed Casa Museo del Podestà, all of which bring visitors back through history. 

Spas, speleotherapy and 13 golf courses

The Brescia region has an exciting golf circuit which is one of the most important in Italy, with no less than 13 courses. For those looking for wellness holidays and want to get back into shape, there are the well-known thermal spa towns of Sirmione and Boario and the mountain spa of Vallio, as well as speleotherapy in the Sant'Aloisio mine in Collio, in the Trompia Valley.

Brescia’s gastronomic excellence

The province’s food and wines are also very varied with PDO products, such as the EVO oils of Garda and Sebino, traditional products like the Rosa Camuna cheese, Slow Food products like  Bagòss cheese and a range of excellent wines such as Franciacorta and the 9 DOC Botticino, Capriano del Colle, Cellatica, Terre di Franciacorta, Garda, Garda Classico, Garda Bresciano, Lugana and San Martino della Battaglia. There is also an extraordinary range of Michelin-starred restaurants, trattorias and typical osterias with everything from mountain to lake to country-themed menus. The culinary delights of the province of Brescia are just waiting to be discovered and savored and in 2017 Brescia’s province was honored as the European Region of Gastronomy.

For information: www.visitbrescia.it

Nestled in the heart of the Ligurian Alps in Cuneo province, Prato Nevoso will open its ski lifts on 13 December.  

The winter season opens on 13 December  

Perched at an altitude of 1,500 meters, this charming resort in the municipality of Frabosa Sottana (CN) in Piedmont is easily accessible from Milan and Genoa in three and two hours respectively.  The 2024 winter season officially kicks off at Prato Nevoso on Friday, December 13, with the full reopening of its ski lifts. Thanks to recent heavy snowfall, even the renowned Rosso area is ready to welcome skiers and snowboarders, with perfectly groomed slopes promising a season of fun and adventure. “We are thrilled to announce the complete reopening of our facilities,- said Alberto Oliva, administrator of Prato Nevoso SpA. -Our team has worked tirelessly to ensure an unparalleled experience and exceptional snow conditions.”  

ph credits www.pratonevoso.com

A hub for unmissable snow events  

Prato Nevoso isn’t just about skiing and snowboarding—it’s also a hub of events and entertainment for visitors of all ages. Highlights of the season include:  Sunday, December 15 when the Snowpark will host the “Regional Snowboard Slopestyle Championships,” a must-see event for extreme sports enthusiasts.  Also on December 15 the Prato Nevoso Village will transform into an enchanted wonderland for the “Open Season Kids” event, featuring live entertainment, family activities, and appearances by the beloved mascots of Frozen and Aladdin, who are guaranteed to delight younger guests.   Then, in January 2025 Prato Nevoso will once again host athletes competing in the “FIS Freeski and Snowboard European Cup,” reaffirming its reputation as a world-class venue.  

ph credits www.pratonevoso.com

Not just winter: Prato Nevoso is a year-round paradise  

Prato Nevoso is a destination that shines in every season. During summer visitors can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking and mountain biking to food festivals and open-air performances, making it a year-round treasure for nature lovers and adventure seekers.   For fans of carving down pristine slopes, exploring scenic trails, or enjoying a fun-filled day with the family, Prato Nevoso promises unforgettable memories, breathtaking landscapes, and a variety of experiences to suit all ages and tastes.  

For information: www.pratonevoso.com 

Tired of cramming your carry-on into a luggage sizer, while an attendant glares at you?  And of squabbling with fellow passengers who refuse to store their trolleys neatly? Relief may be on the way. Airbus has introduced new L-shaped overhead lockers that add 60% more space. Not only does this mean less stress, but also fewer extra cabin baggage charges.

These lockers will store bags both vertically and horizontally, making it easier to fit everyone’s luggage, so, in theory, airlines may not need to measure your bag down to the nearest millimeter anymore.

But hold that thought - budget airlines aren’t exactly known for letting go of their extra fees without a fight. And given that Ryanair, easyJet, and Wizz Air rake in up to 45% of their revenue from extras like baggage charges, don’t expect them to roll out the red carpet any time soon.

Still, bigger lockers? We’ll take it!

Pamela McCourt Francescone
Executive Editor

The boutique Hotel Savona 18 Suites in Milan, managed by the Blu Hotels Group, and located in the Tortona area, has been turned into a contemporary masterpiece. 

The property features design art works

The new trendy Tortona neighbourhood has been brought to life by its numerous fashion showrooms, and the project for the renovation of this former railing heritage house, later converted to hotel use, is the creation of the architect Aldo Cibic, who previously worked with Ettore Sottsass.

The Savona 18 Suites is one of Cibic’s most interesting projects: an old railing house converted into a hotel and hospitality venue featuring drawings, photographs and installations that bring the visitor on an exciting journey of discovery.

Home suites, study and fitness rooms

The heritage railing flats have been transformed into 42 spacious rooms divided into five types. The basic room is the home suite on up to 43 square metres and has a living room entrance, corridor and bedroom with bathroom, with rooms overlooking Via Savona on one side and the inner courtyard on the other. There are also study rooms, with a living area, or fitness rooms, equipped with a small private gym which are soundproofed and with an external corridor with the railings overlooking an intimate and cozy garden.

“We welcomed the development of leisure tourism”

“In 2020/21 we had a slow recovery, but in 2024 we are growing steadily and have already exceeded 2019 figures, - says Manuela Miraudo, Blu Hotels marketing & events manager. - The hotel's clientele changed after the pandemic: we opened in response to business demand and then welcomed the development of leisure tourism.”