The Italians have a saying: Vive bene chi prende il mondo come viene. A rough translation is ‘to live well, take the world as it is’. A principle to live by, and certainly something I know a thing or two about as a FMTY Travel Companion.
Having recently spent a week in Italy in the company of a refined gentleman, I can say with certainty that I know how to live well. A week together is the perfect holiday for those gentlemen who love to take their time, to stop and take it all in (with a beautiful woman by his side, no less). The Italian foodscape, culture and history is unparalleled, and the opportunities for romantic moments were endless.
When in Rome
The Eternal City truly lives up to its name. A highlight of mine was walking hand in hand around the local markets (especially the farm-to-table markets), getting to enjoy some of the most exquisite, fresh food I’ve ever had! Anyone who knows me knows I am a true foodie – every aspect of it I adore. We visited during the season of figs, tomatoes, and peaches – earthly delights made all the more sensual by sharing the experience with a lover and travel companion..
Market dates can be so romantic; together we can learn about the local cuisine, soak in the amazing atmosphere, then head off to a mouthwatering lunch and wine pairing (if those tasters haven’t filled us up yet!). Sharing some local delicacies paired with a glass of Chianti or Brunello di Montalcino with a refined gentleman? Nothing feeds the soul more. Not to mention, the gelato was out of this world, but that was to be expected.
Rome is a city I could have spent weeks in! There is so much history there, so much breathtaking architecture, so many opportunities for blissful romance, and I was seriously impressed with the gluten-free options available. Then of course there was the shopping [link to Twitter]; holiday gifts are all the more special, as they act as keepsakes for our time together. I know that every time I wear my new pair of Choos, I will think of our Italian adventures and smile.
While I love to explore off-the-beaten track, there are some things you simply must do when in Italy, including visiting the Vatican City. It was unforgettable, and I was in total awe of the history; you felt like the very architecture, the very foundations, preserved the history of such a significant place. The Sistine Chapel was mind-blowing, too. With art perfectly expressing sacredness, you can’t help but feel reflective, with an overwhelming sense of gratitude, while visiting such a beautiful place.
La vita da spiagga
Sorrento was our next stop, where I indulged in the beach and boat life – which I have to say suited me, wouldn’t you agree?
We spent a day on Capri Island, soaking up the sun and indulging in some handmade gluten- free ravioli (which did not disappoint). I would recommend Grotto Azzurra to anyone who’s travelling to Italy. The Blue Grotto is the perfect place to be rendered speechless by the sheer beauty of the place. My date and I, on a small wooden boat, entered the cave. We were mesmerized by what we saw; the myriad blue ripples of the crystal-clear sea water reflecting on the cave. The rhythmic sounds of the boat moving to and fro on the calm waters.
On our way back from Rome, we stopped in Pompeii. I’m a bit of a history buff, and Pompeii has been a place that has fascinated me for years, so it was a joy to finally visit! The active excavation of new areas of Pompeii was thrilling. The fact that the history of this city in which people lived is still unfolding never ceases to amaze me. That there are new facts emerging all the time from this unique and spectacular place, made me think of our own place in history.
A lady never kisses and tells, so I’ll keep the more intimate side of our adventures between myself and the wonderful gentleman I had a pleasure to spend a week with. But let’s just say, my week in Italy was one of my most memorable moments as a travel companion. Being able to truly get to know someone over an extended period of time is such an honour; sharing laughs, food, wine and history – memories that I’ll never forget!
