I first fell in love with travel when I was 11, on my first primary school trip to Scotland. I am from Genoa, a lovely seaside town in the north west of Italy, and it was my very first time jumping on a plane. I will never forget the excitement of it – I was ready to explore a new country and I had never felt happier. I never stopped travelling after that. I kept going after that sense of adventure and curiosity that led me to live in different countries, including Ireland, the US, Australia, England, Indonesia. Travelling opens up your mind, makes you richer and gives you the opportunity to meet incredible people, to get to know different cultures and change the way you see the world.
My most memorable trip
Bali
Bali has a very special place in my heart. I loved everything about it, from the absolute kindness of people and their smiles, to the delicious food, the green rice fields, the harmony with nature and the magical atmosphere that surrounds you everyday. It was very hard to leave, and I’d love to go back.
On my bucket list
Peru
Peru has been at the top of my bucket list for a while. I am intrigued by its history, traditions and culture but also by its amazing scenery and nature. My dream trip would be to travel from Lima to Bolivia, taking in the wonders of Cusco, Machu Picchu and the Uyuni salt flats along the way, before working my way through the rugged Andean landscapes to Argentina.
See where I’ve travelled
Costa Rica
"I met the Bri Bri Indigenous community in Costa Rica and learned how to make chocolate in a local home. "
Bali
"Learning how to cook Balinese food on a local farm in Indonesia was a very educational and inspiring experience."
Australia
"I loved exploring the Australian Red Centre, the changing colours of Uluru, the red domes of Kata Tjuta and sleeping under the stars in the Outback."
China
"I will never forget witnessing the sunset from the Great Wall of China. That was an incredible experience. "
Best destination for families
Italy
Italy is an amazing destination for families as you can find something for everyone and never get bored. There’s a fantastic range of culture, nature, fun, adventures, history and delicious food to suit all age ranges and interests. Italy offers such a wide spectrum of activities that make a family trip truly memorable, from pizza making to cycling through the Puglian countryside.
My favourite hotel
Longitude 131°
Longitude 131° in Australia has always fascinated me. Its location is simply incredible. Witnessing all the changing colours of Uluru throughout the day from the comfort of your room and the incredible Outback night sky is something that must be experienced at least once in a lifetime!
My top tips
Explore Seville in March when the orange blossoms are in full bloom. Walking around the city is an incredible experience as everywhere smells so nice.
A trip to the Jungfraujoch is essential while in Switzerland. The view of the mountains from the observatory is breathtaking. Make sure to wear some sturdy shoes and warm clothes, bring a camera and get ready for a great adventure to the Top of Europe.
If you like alternative, trendy and hip places, you cannot miss the LX Factory when you are in Lisbon. Originally a manufacturing site for a thread and fabric company, it was abandoned and is now a very trendy area filled with creativity, boutiques, restaurants and coffee shops.
If you visit Puglia, take a cooking class and learn how to make "orecchiette", a traditional pasta from the region. If you are lucky enough, you may also meet some ladies making orecchiette in the streets outside their front doors.
