My first trip to Italy was to Venice years ago. It was the first trip I took abroad with my husband. We had only been together a few months. Venice is a busy place in the day, full of hustle and bustle, however at night it is different. After a busy day sightseeing we went back to our hotel, which was situated on a canal not far from St Mark's Square.
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As we finished getting ready to go out for dinner, we went to the little balcony outside. It started raining heavily but we were sheltered in our little cove. All the locals and tourists ran inside, leaving the streets empty. Venice in the rain is so lovely, and as we looked out we felt we were the only couple in the world. We fell in love there and then.
A few years later we visited a little town called Limone in Lake Garda. We were immediately taken by the scenic beauty of the azure lakes and the lush green mountains. An unforgettable place for a walking holiday, we explored the area with great enthusiasm.
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My last trip to Italy was last year when I visited Rome with my husband. Rome is full of tourists, yes it's obvious I know, but you can still find a quiet moment in a little cafe. We found a very stylish bar one night and sat with Bellinis in hand chatting about what we would see in this historic city. The wonders of the Colluseum, the majesty that is the Vatican and the beauty of the Trevi fountain were captured by my camera. Our love for Italy was cemented even further.
Italy is a country to be savoured and adored. To be explored slowly, delightfully, in awe and amazement and, as always, at your own place.
Photo my own
Italy is a country to be savoured and adored. To be explored slowly, delightfully, in awe and amazement and, as always, at your own place.
If you visit, take the time to chat to the locals, drink the wine, and eat the delicious cuisine, whether that's a simple pizza or more elaborate pasta or meat dish. Take the time to sit in a little square and watch the world go by with a cup of Italian coffee. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history, and when you have had enough, visit those little boutiques and buy yourself a stylish treat. Take the time to hire a bike and explore the countryside or go on a walking holiday into the mountains. Take the time to fall in love... with Italy.
This Valentine's day we will be recreating the romance of Venice at home. My husband will cook his infamous Spaghetti Carbonara, we will be eating the best Italian chocolates and drinking the sparkliest Prosecco and dreaming, dreaming of our return to Italy in the near future. I've always wanted to go to stunning Sorrento and visit historic Pompeii so this is next on my wish list.
Inntravel the slow holiday people love Italy as much as I do. Their company is based on the ethos of holidays that delight and inspire you. Holidays that are enjoyed at a slow pace of life. Holidays that immerse you in the culture. Holidays that create lasting memories.
Inntravel are giving my readers today the chance to win some vouchers for a delicious Italian meal at Carluccios. If you would like to enter then pop over to my competition here.
Tell me have you ever been to Italy or would like to go? Do you like Italian food? Have you ever had a romantic holiday in Italy?
