Leonardo Hotels, which has over 300 properties in 21 countries, is opening two new hotels in Rome. 

The Nyx Hotel is close to the Vatican

The new Nyx Hotel Rome, located in the Prati district, a few steps from the Vatican and Castel Sant'Angelo, is in a strategic position to attract both tourists and business travellers, and is due to open next year. The new property is in the former Cicerone Hotel, which was renovated with an investment of some €20 million, and will have300 rooms, a restaurant, a bar, an indoor terrace and modular meeting areas.

The Leonardo Boutique Hotel Rome Monti opens next year

Also in Rome, the Leonardo Boutique Hotel Rome Monti will open its doors on 1 February 2025. The hotel will have 80 rooms, a breakfast room, a bar, an interior courtyard and a panoramic terrace. Guests will also have access to a spa with sauna, Turkish bath, whirlpool and gym. A meeting room for corporate events completes the offer.

Leonardo Hotels has six hotels in Italy

With six hotels scattered along the Italian peninsula - in Rome, Milan, Verona, Venice and Lazise - in 2023 Leonardo Hotels recorded a turnover of €50 million in Italy, an increase of around €10 million over the previous year. Forecasts for 2024 indicate a turnover that is expected to close at around €56 million.

Carrani describes itself as an ultra-modern 100-year-old DMC that offers customers the most innovative technological and operational solutions.

A start-up born with a 100-year-old history

Growing the business is the objective of Roberto Pannozzo, the new CEO of Carrani Tours, the historic Rome-based inbound operator. “Our company is already rich in talent and has achieved much success through international collaborations,- says Pannozzo. -Carrani is a reference DMC for many foreign top-level tours.” Taking over the leadership of the Roman DMC is for Pannozzo first and foremost “an honour and a responsibility, not only towards the owners but towards all the professionals on the team. Many have made this company an extension of their lives for more than a decade or two. It ccan also show how the tradition and values a 100-year-old company can be perfectly aligned with the principles of modern business where technology, process optimization and scalability must be the foundations of company growth. In fact, I like to think of Carrani as a start-up that was born with the competitive advantage of a 100-year history.” 

“Travellers are better informed”

With 20 years of experience in inbound tourism, Pannozzo has seen the incoming world evolve at increasing speed: “But apart from the usual technology, which obviously remains central, what has changed above all is the customer, who must always be at the centre of everything, as must the well-being of our employees. Travellers have become increasingly demanding, because they are better informed, thanks primarily to the Internet. Compared to the past, they already arrive with a wealth of expectations and knowledge of the destination that was unthinkable 20 years ago. And we service providers must be aware that now the bar is much higher.” 

A post-pandemic surge in demand

Referring to the real revolution that has taken place in the last four years post-epidemic, especially in operational management, Pannozzo concludes: “It’s no secret that those offering travel solutions are now struggling to keep pace with the surge in demand. for post-epidemic travel. Fortunately, Carrani’s well-established relationships with suppliers - from guides to transportation providers and hotels - enable us to adapt effectively to an ever-changing environment.

Ryanair's winter in Pisa has taken off with an expanded network that includes 36 routes and three new destinations.

New Pisa flights to Reggio Calabria, Oslo Torp and Zagreb

The new fights are to Reggio Calabria, Oslo Torp and Zagreb, and there are increased frequencies on more than 15 existing connections, such as Budapest, London, Malaga and Paris. “We have been operating in Pisa for 26 years, during which time we have transported over 53 million passengers,. said Fabrizio Francioni, Ryanair's head of communications Italy.- We have also invested considerable sums in the region, including our eight aircraft (representing an investment of $800 million), and we support more than 3,000 local jobs. To continue to grow Italian tourism we are asking the Italian government and the regions to eliminate the municipal surcharge at all Italian airports. This will allow Ryanair and other airlines to quickly deliver new routes,  and boost tourism and job growth all year round.”

Pisa Airport handled 4.9 million passengers from January to October

“This winter operation further reinforces the strategic role of Pisa airport both for connections in Italy and with the rest of Europe - underlines a note by Toscana Aeroporti. -The increase in routes and the continuous growth of traffic at Galileo Galilei, which in the first 10 months of the year reached a record number of 4.9 million passengers, testify to the solidity of the partnership between Toscana Aeroporti and Ryanair. These results drive us to continue working with determination to guarantee an efficient and welcoming airport that can sustain the growth of traffic and enhance the entire region.” 

British Airways is investing in the Italian summer with the introduction of three new routes.

New flights to Rimini, Salerno and Olbia 

Starting from May 2025, the British flag carrier will operate flights to Rimini from London Heathrow, to Salerno Costa d'Amalfi from London Gatwick, and to Olbia from London City, which will join the existing routes to Sardinia operated from Heathrow.

“Italy is our second largest market after the US” 

The new routes will bring to 19 the total number of Italian destinations served by the British airline, more than any other European country in its network. “Italy continues to be a huge hit with our customers, making it our largest European destination and the second largest globally after the United States,- says chief planning and strategy officer Neil Chernoff. - Last month we recorded a 10% increase in searches for summer flights to Italy compared to 2023, so we are delighted to offer an even wider choice of destinations next year.”

BA’s Cityflyer will operate from London City to Olbia

The flights to Rimini will begin on 15 May, and will operate three times a week on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays. The Gatwick to Salerno services will be operated by BA Euroflyer, with three frequencies a week on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 22 May 2025. And British's subsidiary at London City, BA Cityflyer, will connect the London city airport to Olbia, from 25 May 2025 with one flight a week, which will become twice weekly from 16 July, operating on Wednesdays and Sundays.

Each year, as the November fog rolls over Venice’s canals, the city celebrates the Feast of the Madonna della Salute.

Commemorating the plague of 1630

Venice comes alive every 21 November with this festive celebration steeped in history and devotion. The Feast of the Madonna della Salute, observed for over four centuries, commemorates the end of the devastating plague of 1630, a dark chapter in the city’s history. On this day Venetians and visitors gather to honor the Virgin Mary, offering thanks for the health and protection that she is believed to have bestowed on the city.

A grandiose basilica 

The heart of the celebration is the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, the stunning Baroque masterpiece designed by Baldassarre Longhena and, crossing the temporary votive bridge spanning the Grand Canal, the grandeur of the basilica sets the stage for a day of prayer, reflection, and community. The basilica itself is a work of art, with its intricate sculptures, soaring arches, and with history and tradition permeating the air. 

Culinary traditions and fun for all

The city organizes wine and food tastings and cultural initiatives, the streets and squares around the basilica are filled with stalls selling traditional sweets, toys, and colorful balloons for children, and there are endless opportunities to indulge in Venice’s culinary traditions. No dish is more emblematic of this occasion than Castradina, a hearty soup with mutton, cabbage, and onions which is a symbol of the comforting warmth of home-cooked food. 

Venice reveals its true essence

The Feast of the Madonna della Salute is more than just a religious observance; it is a day when the city, with its labyrinthine canals and ancient buildings, feels more alive than ever. A time to connect with the true essence of Venice, a city that continues to inspire awe, reverence, and a deep sense of community. For information: https://basilicasalutevenezia.it/pellegrinaggio-annuale/

The wide Ampezzo valley and the Dolomite mountain range that surrounds it, make Cortina a privileged place for lovers of sports and sporting events, like the 1956 Winter Olympics, the 2021 World Ski Championships and the Winter Olympics and Paralympics in 2026, the latter to be held also in Milan.

In summer the valley offers hundreds of kilometres of hiking trails, more than thirty vie ferrate climbing routes, a golf course and trails for MTB road biking and climbing. In winter it offers legendary ski slopes, the Olympic Ice Stadium, a wide range of snowshoeing and ski mountaineering areas, as well as cross-country skiing trails in the Nature Park. 

ph credits: Manaz Productions

The wide Ampezzo valley and the Dolomite mountain range that surrounds it, make Cortina a privileged place for lovers of sports and sporting events, like the 1956 Winter Olympics, the 2021 World Ski Championships and the Winter Olympics and Paralympics in 2026, the latter to be held also in Milan.

In summer the valley offers hundreds of kilometres of hiking trails, more than thirty vie ferrate climbing routes, a golf course and trails for MTB road biking and climbing. In winter it offers legendary ski slopes, the Olympic Ice Stadium, a wide range of snowshoeing and ski mountaineering areas, as well as cross-country skiing trails in the Nature Park. 

ph credits: Manaz Productions

A place in which to indulge one’s senses

What gives Cortina an edge is the possibility of practicing sports in one of the most beautiful mountain environments in the world. Cortina d'Ampezzo is a place in which to indulge one's senses. Thanks to its wonderful views, comfortable hotels, pure air and picturesque historic centre, the Queen of the Dolomites offers visitors everything they need to feel good, including numerous wellness opportunities. Cortina, with its age-old traditions and its wellness facilities, allows visitors to immerse themselves in a world of silence, enjoy the charm and magic of the different seasons, and relax away from the buzz of the city, rebalancing emotionally.   

Cortina 2026. Countdown to the Milan Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games 

Cortina d'Ampezzo is preparing for the second time to experience the excitement of the Games as one of the main locations of the next Winter Olympic Games which will in fact be held from 6 to 22 February 2026 in Cortina. Many disciplines, such as Alpine Skiing, Curling, Bobsleigh, Skeleton and Luge, will be held in Cortina which will host athletes and spectators from all over the world. The Paralympic Winter Games will be held from 6 to 15 March 2026, with Cortina hosting competitions in Para Alpine Skiing, Wheelchair Curling, and Para Snowboarding. The main venues in Cortina will be the iconic Olympia Slope on the Tofane, the renovated Olympic Ice Stadium and the new Sliding Centre.

ph credits: Manaz Productions

The first games that had the splendid Ampezzo Dolomites as a curtain-raiser were the 7th Winter Olympics in 1956, which were also the first to be televised, thus leaving a lasting imprint on the world of winter sports. Some 70 years later Cortina is preparing to rewrite history, with improved facilities and enhanced infrastructure to ensure an optimal experience for both athletes and visitors. Road connections are also being boosted to facilitate access to and within Cortina d'Ampezzo where hotels, apartments, restaurants, shops and car parks are either getting an update or being completely rebuilt.

ph credits: Denis_Jankovic

One of the most fascinating aspects of Cortina is its breathtaking scenery. The Dolomites are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and will be the backdrop for this spectacular event, and in addition to sporting events, the town will offer a wide range of cultural and recreational activities. The historic Corso Italia main street, with its elegant boutiques, gourmet restaurants and charm, will be the theatre for events, exhibitions and shows. Visitors will also be able to discover local traditions, savour Tyrolean and Italian cuisine, and experience the warm, traditional hospitality of the Ampezzo community.

ph credits: Manaz Productions

Winter Sports in Cortina

For decades Cortina d'Ampezzo has been synonymous with holidays in the snow. With a network of over 120 kilometres of Alpine ski slopes, 70 kilometres of cross-country ski trails, and countless snowshoeing and ski mountaineering areas, Cortina is a world of wonders just waiting to be explored. Alpine skiing is the most popular activity in Cortina during the winter season. However, many other adrenalin-fuelled and relaxing experiences can also be enjoyed, from moonlight ski touring followed by dinner in a mountain hut, to snow-kiting with scenic mountains as a backdrop, and from indoor ice skating to cross-country skiing in the Ampezzo Dolomites Natural Park as well as snowshoeing in the woods, and climbing icefalls.

ph credits: Manaz Productions

The cross-country skiing experience

Cross-country skiing is considered one of the most historical and traditional sports in the Ampezzo Valley, and with the Cross-Country Skiing Experience network of rentals, schools and hotels anyone can comfortably try this fascinating sport. Cortina’s cross-country ski trails are suitable for beginners and experts, with more than 70 kilometres of tracks in two main areas: the Fiames Nordic Centre for beginners, and the Passo Tre Croci, an FIS-approved competition track.

ph credits: Manaz Productions

Other Cortina Experiences definitely worth trying are the Family Experience, which is ideal for the whole family; the Wellness Experience, to relax at high altitude or in the hotel; the Wellbeing Experience with relaxing activities; the Food Experience which goes from the simplest and most traditional cuisine in mountain huts to gourmet restaurants; the Lifestyle Experience to experience exclusive and luxurious emotions.

ph credits: Manaz Productions

For information: https://cortina.dolomiti.org/it/inverno/

 

 

Soft snow, majestic peaks, and a pristine mountain backdrop crowned by white clouds and endless skies. Cervinia is a winter paradise, promising unforgettable experiences for sports enthusiasts amidst a dazzling palette of snowy whites. Nestled in the heart of the Valle d'Aosta lies the Valtur Cervinia Cristallo Ski Resort, a true embodiment of the Italian lifestyle. Here, wellness, entertainment, gourmet cuisine, design, fashion, and music come together in perfect harmony with the stunning surroundings. A dynamic destination to be savored year-round, whether in winter or summer.

Embracing the magic of an enchanting resort

This 5-star resort in the Alps at Cielo Alto, some 2,000 metres above sea level, comprises three units, one central, Cristallo, and Cristallino 1 and 2, with a total of 211 rooms and suites tailored to every need, offering unparalleled comfort and a chance to embrace the magic of this enchanting destination. In the spacious, welcoming and multifunctional spaces sociability blends with relaxation. From the Lobby Area, the beating heart of the resort, to the Relax Area with an evocative central fireplace, to the Theatre Area where magic and entertainment come to life, to the Cervino Terrace, an outdoor space at the foot of Mount Cervino and ideal for getting in touch with nature, everything here contributes to making your holiday a true masterpiece to be framed among your most beautiful memories.

Three restaurants with innovative gourmet menus

Savor flavors in perfect harmony with the essence of the region, in a temple of taste in which to be pampered with food and wine experiences. There are three restaurants: GOU, Gargantua and Bolla Bistrot, where you can enjoy traditional sky-high cuisine and innovative and gourmet menus that will surprise you. There are also two bars, The Fire Place Bar and Bar Bolla Lounge, where you can delight in prestigious bubbles and the best spirits, or embark on an extraordinary journey through the art of mixology. 

Wellbeing at the core. A journey to self-rediscovery 

Innovative and immersive spaces designed for ultimate rejuvenation, that draw inspiration from the rich cultures and exceptional practices of the world of wellness, working with the best partners and materials, and respecting the environment. The multifunctional wellness area has four different areas. The Pool: a pool area equipped with loungers and elements of light design; The Miele Spa consisting of a whirlpool, sauna, biosauna, Turkish bath, ice cascade, emotional shower, salt wall and a relaxation area. The Technogym Gym, complete with state-of-the-art equipment and a dedicated personal trainer, and The Treatment Cabins, a functional area for massages and beauty treatments.

A sky-high playground of sports and emotions 

The thrill of the descent, the crunch of fresh snow under your boots, and the awe of a breathtaking view awaiting at the summit. The Valtur Cervinia Cristallo Ski Resort offers endless activities to enjoy the beauty of the mountains in winter.  The modern Rossignol ski room for equipment rental is equipped with heated lockers a coffee/tea station, a dedicated workshop, and an advanced optical scan for foot analysis.

A treadmill, accessible directly from the ski room, connects the resort to the slopes, which are just a few minutes away on skis.  Guests have access to a leading local ski school with dedicated packages for every level of experience. There is a Ski Pass issuing service at our Experience Desk, a convenient shuttle service to the ski lifts, conventions for lunches in mountain huts on the slopes, and an ice-skating rink for a complete winter experience.

Professionalism reaches new heights, delivering unparalleled lifestyle entertainment

A team of Italian artists and professionals put on a sophisticated and exclusive entertainment programme of exclusive events, world-class evening shows, talented performers and artists, DJ sets, and live music. Team Valturland takes care of the little ones, the attentive and caring staff making little guests feel they are living in a happy oasis. Open every day from 08:00 to 23:00. And for a hi-tech immersive experience, the Gaming Room is a dedicated space, with a unique and refined design, games, consoles and cutting-edge offerings of the latest generation.

Gaming Room
Beyond the journey, the experiences

Snow and thrills. Nature and discovery. Taste and territory. Culture and folklore. Experts and enthusiasts of the destination guide guests with travel tips, experiences not to be missed, typical products to taste, and emotions to be released to fully enjoy their stay and engage with the essence of the region. Cervinia offers endless sports activities and unique experiences to fully enjoy the beauty of the mountains.

ph credits: Enrico Romanzi

In winter, in the Cervinia ski resort, you will find:

• Alpine Skiing
• Matterhorn Alpine Crossing
• Lunch/Dinner in a mountain hut
• Snowshoe walking 
• Snowmobile tours
• Heliskiing
• Panorama flights over the Matterhorn
• Après Ski on the Panorama Terrace
• Family Kids Ice Park

Visits to the Christmas markets

• Visits to Chamois, the Pearl of the Alps

At the Valtur Cervinia Cristallo Ski Resort, for guests there are::

• Pilates
• Water Gym
• Hydrobiking
• Ice skating

The new ITA Airways flights from Bangkok to Rome were introduced on 17 November and now operate five days weekly.

ITA Airway’s entry into the Thai market

The new flights are scheduled on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays and are operated by an Airbus A330-900. They mark the company's entry into the Thai market, which is strategic for business and leisure traffic, while boosting the airline’s Asia network which already counted Tokyo and New Delhi. The new flights, which staeted on 17 November, will also operate during the 2025 summer season – starting on 30 March 2025 - with three weekly frequencies on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. The Bangkok-Rome flights mark the entry of the airline into the Thai market which is strategic for both business and leisure travel, they also extend the Asia network which already counted Tokyo and New Delhi.  and Fridays.  

“A growth opportunity for our tour operator partners”

“The new direct Bangkok-Rome Fiumicino flight is the only direct connection between the two capitals and the fifteenth intercontinental destination in our network, - said Emiliana Limosani, chief commercial officer of the carrier and CEO of Volare.  - This connection boosts our commercial strategy and is a growth opportunity for our tour operator partners who consider Thailand one of the most popular destinations internationally. The cargo sector is already showing significant demand, both inbound and outbound, and we are confident that this positive trend will consolidate in the coming months.” 

Thailand’s potential is +400,000 passengers annually

“This flight is a further step forward for connectivity with the Asian continent, - said Federico Scriboni, aviation business development director Aeroporti di Roma. – For us the Bangkok flights are strategic for the development of leisure flows between two of the world's tourism capitals. They further boost business opportunities and trade exchanges with Thailand, a market with a traffic potential for Italy that has abundantly exceeded 400,000 passengers in the last year.”

The inauguration of Rome-Bangkok follows the introduction of daily services to Dubai, launched on 27 October, and anticipates the re-launch of the seasonal connection to Malé, capital of the Maldives, starting from 20 December. Moreover, from 12 January 2025, ITA Airways will inaugurate the - Tripoli Mitiga- Rome Fiumicino flights, which are already on sale.