Unforgettable Moments In The Desert: Exploring Dubai’s Safari Trip

BY  Sibashree Oct 29, 2025

São Tomé and Príncipe is about to take a significant step in developing a sustainable tourism sector. The sustainable tourism sector will be further well-balanced in terms of the economic indicators.  The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) and the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office will support this move. In this context, the country will hold a United Voices for Sustainable Tourism dialogue on 30th October 2025, and there will be a technical validation workshop on 29th October.  It will be the second phase of the Tourism Satellite Account (TSA) Development Project that will give São Tomé and Príncipe a strategic tool to measure the economic contribution of tourism to the nation’s wealth. Thus, it will establish why leveraging tourism is crucial for the sustainable development and economic diversification of the country.  Furthermore, the latest workshop before this dialogue, held on 15th to 18th September 2025, has highlighted the 11% contribution of the country’s tourism sector to the GDP and 10% of the Gross Value Added (GVA).  With the country taking a step forward in sustainable tourism, the São Tomé eco-lodges are also going to play a critical role. With the use of renewable energy, community involvement, local sourcing, and sustainable architecture, these lodges are also helping us to travel green.  In this blog, I will introduce the popular and lesser-known São Tomé eco-lodges, what practices they follow, the hidden gems of São Tomé and Príncipe, and more.  What Makes An Eco-Lodge In São Tomé Truly Sustainable? Before diving into the list, let’s define what sets a true eco-lodge apart: Renewable energy sources (solar, hydro) Local sourcing of food and materials Waste reduction and water conservation Community involvement and fair employment Eco-certifications or transparent sustainability practices Popular São Tomé Eco-Lodges The best eco-lodges in São Tomé and Príncipe for sustainable travel are committed to preserving the community and nature of the islands. Many of these eco-lodges also support conservation efforts and organize nature walks to help the visitors understand the local ecosystem.  Nevertheless, here are the most popular ones.  1. Omali Lodge (São Tomé) View this post on Instagram A post shared by dr. András Peres (@drandrasperes) With policies governed by the Biosphere Responsible Tourism standards, Omali Lodge. It has the Biosphere Responsible Tourism certification. It is a leader of sustainable tourism in São Tomé and Príncipe.  Local artists and craftsmen are involved in the operations of the Omali Lodge, staying true to its commitment to community development. Furthermore, the menu here focuses on national dishes prepared with locally-sourced ingredients.  However, it offers adequate Wi-Fi connectivity. So, if you are not looking for a complete digital detox and want to work remotely, then it is also a good choice.  2. Bom Bom Island Resort (Príncipe) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Maria Helena Vinhas Frade (@mhvf) The Bom Bom Island Resort is the first African hotel to receive the Biosphere certification from the Instituto de Turismo Responsable (ITR).  Currently, the main aim of the hotel is to go completely diesel-free in its daily operations. The hotel has 68 local workers, as Sérgio Duarte has mentioned in a recent conversation with the Sustainability Leaders United.  Furthermore, the hotel procures resources from the local producers. Also, it collects donations from the guests to invest in employee training programs. Thus, it helps in educating and empowering the community.  The experiences it offers are: Turtle watching Maria Correia waterfall trail hiking Birdwatching Parrot Peak trail hiking Roça Infante trail hiking Stand-up paddleboarding Snorkeling It is also a friendly accommodation for digital nomads with Wi-Fi connectivity, included within the accommodation package. Moreover, the main part of the resort is wheelchair-accessible.  So, it is one of the accessible eco-lodges in São Tomé and Príncipe.  3. Praia Inhame Eco Lodge (São Tomé) View this post on Instagram A post shared by PATRÍCIA PINHEIRO (@patrwisha) Claimed to be “Naturally Comfortable,” Praia Inhame Eco Lodge is one of the best eco-lodges with turtle watching in São Tomé. A local NGO, MARAPA, runs the Tatô Program to protect marine turtles in São Tomé.  Praia Inhame Eco Lodge has been working with this NGO since 2012. It has helped the NGO to implement this program on Inhame and Cabana beaches.  The wilderness and outdoor activities offered by this eco lodge are: Marine turtle observation Whale watching Birdwatching Diving Fishing Boat trips Moreover, places such as Hell's Mouth, Saint Sebastian Museum, St. Nicholas Waterfall, St. Thomas Peak, and Jale Beach are some nearby attractions of this eco-lodge.  In addition, it is one of the São Tomé eco-lodges with Wi-Fi connectivity. So, it is also a favorite of digital nomads who can travel and work remotely.  4. Sundy Praia (Príncipe Island) View this post on Instagram A post shared by HBD Príncipe (@hbd_principe) Sundy Praia has a dedicated team for waste management and recycling. Furthermore, it leads community cleaning drives to spread awareness about the impact of litter.  Also, the “screw-in” mechanism of the eco lodge’s architecture ensures a minimal impact on the environment of the island.  Moreover, located inside the beachside rainforest, it is indeed an eco lodge.  The experiences it offers are: Turtle watching Maria Correia waterfall trail hiking Birdwatching Parrot Peak trail hiking Roça Infante trail hiking Stand-up paddleboarding Snorkeling Moreover, you can be a part of the 3-hour Discover Santo António tour. Also, it is a favorite of digital nomads for Wi-Fi connectivity.  In addition, Sundy Praia offers wheelchair accessibility to make the travel experience more inclusive.  5. Roça Sundy (Príncipe) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nina Scott (@nina.wolfs.scott) As part of the Príncipe Collection, like Sundy Praia and Bom Bom, Roça Sundy also follows that when you visit it, you make a Conservation and Communities Contribution (CCC).  You spend a night here, and they will contribute €25 for the environmental and community development of Príncipe. In addition, nearly 10% of the adults of Príncipe work with them.  Moreover, the experiences it offers are: Turtle watching Maria Correia waterfall trail hiking Birdwatching Parrot Peak trail hiking Roça Infante trail hiking Stand-up paddleboarding Snorkeling 6. Mucumbli Lodge (São Tomé) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mucumbli Explore (@mucumbli.explore) Mucumbli Lodge overlooks the Atlantic Ocean, and it offers the quintessential eco-lodge experience with wooden chalets.  Furthermore, due to its unique location, it is one of the best remote eco-lodges for digital detox in Africa.  Lesser-Known Accommodations Following The Best Sustainable Practices In São Tomé And Príncipe Island The options for São Tomé eco-lodges are more varied than you can expect. Here are the lesser-known ones or the hidden gems.  1. Jalé Ecolodge (São Tomé) View this post on Instagram A post shared by IATI Seguros PORTUGAL (@iatisegurospt) Jalé Ecolodge offers beautiful sea views from all units. You can enjoy snorkeling nearby and have the best continental breakfast sourced from local ingredients.  2. Roca Monte Forte (São Tomé) It is the first rural tourism place to open in São Tomé. Here, you will be staying inside a cocoa plantation with history, and you will lead the quintessential Santomean farm life.  Furthermore, it offers easy access to nearby beaches in the northern area, such as Governador, Tamarindos, Conchas, and Blue Lagoon.  3. Domus Praia Jalé (São Tomé) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Domus Praia Jalé (@domuspraiajale) Domus Praia Jalé is the best location if you want to have good food and relax in nature. It has an on-site restaurant serving international delicacies made with local ingredients.  Also, they have a private beach where you can relax and listen to the waves.  Seasonal Travel Tips For Staying At The Eco Lodges In São Tomé and Príncipe June to September, or the dry season, is the best time to stay at the eco-lodges in São Tomé and Príncipe for mild weather conditions and wildlife watching.  1. For Whale Watching Bom Bom Island Resort in Príncipe and Mucumbli in São Tomé are some of the best eco-lodges for whale watching. July to October is the whale watching season here.  2. For Sea Turtle Nesting Praia Inhame Eco Lodge in São Tomé and Bom Bom Island Resort in Príncipe are the best eco-lodges for seeing turtle nesting. November to March is the ideal time for this experience.  Budget Breakdown: What Is The Average Cost Per Night At Eco Lodges In São Tomé and Príncipe? Here is a cost comparison between eco-lodges, not budget-friendly options. Find out the budget eco-lodges in the islands.  Name of the Eco-LodgeApproximate Cost Per Night/ Per Person (€)Omali Lodge222Bom Bom Island Resort250Praia Inhame Eco Lodge95Sundy Praia420Roça Sundy150Mucumbli Lodge45Jalé Ecolodge55 5-Day Sustainable Travel Itinerary In São Tomé And Príncipe Here is a quick 5-day sustainable travel itinerary in São Tomé and Príncipe.  DaysActivitiesDay 1• Staying at Omali Lodge• Visiting São Tomé city center and local marketsDay 2• Transfer to Mucumbli Lodge• Guided hiking and cacao farm visitDay 3• Moving to Praia Inhame Eco Lodge• Evening turtle tourDay 4• Flight to Príncipe• Staying at Sundy Praia• Exploring a biosphere reserveDay 5• Visiting Roça Sundy• Cultural tour and local lunch Hidden Gems In São Tomé And Príncipe If you want a deeper, more authentic connection to the islands’ nature, culture, and history, you must explore these hidden gems. 1. Malanza Mangrove Canoe Tour: Ideal For Nature Lovers And Photographers View this post on Instagram A post shared by Santo Tomé y Príncipe ESP (@santotomeyprincip) Take a canoe ride through the mangrove forests of southern São Tomé. It is a delightful eco-tour through waterways blessed by lush greenery, endemic flora, and a vibrant birdlife.  2. Pico Cão Grande: Enjoy The Best View From The Obo National Park Trails Pico Cão Grande is the most dramatic natural view you will enjoy here. This volcanic plug, with a height of 663 meters, is almost surreal.  3. Ilhéu Das Rolas And The Equator Marker: Best For Beach Lovers And Geography Buffs View this post on Instagram A post shared by Viagem a São Tomé (@viagem.a.saotome) Ilhéu Das Rolas is a small island off the south of São Tomé. You can take a boat ride here to stand on the equator line.  Also, you can explore the pristine beaches here and have a delightful snorkeling experience.  4. Roça São João Dos Angolares: Great For Cultural Immersion And Sustainable Tourism Roça São João Dos Angolares is an eco lodge that was formerly a plantation. It is also a cultural center. It offers cooking classes, storytelling events with local artists, and art exhibitions.  5. Boca Do Inferno (Hell’s Mouth): Visit During High Tide For Full Effect This dramatic blowhole on the southern coast of São Tomé is the perfect example of juxtaposition. Here, the waves kiss the volcanic cliffs with the water jets reaching the sky.  6. Praia Jalé Turtle Nesting Site Find the sea turtles nesting here during the November to March season. Praia Inhame Eco Lodge in São Tomé and Bom Bom Island Resort in Príncipe are the best places for watching turtle nesting.  7. Nova Estrela Viewpoint (Príncipe Island): Ideal For Sunrise Hikes And Drone Photography View this post on Instagram A post shared by HBD Príncipe (@hbd_principe) It is a beautiful viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the rainforest and coastline of Príncipe.  8. Roça Água Izé: Offers Insight Into The Island’s Colonial Past View this post on Instagram A post shared by Francisco Almada Lobo (@almadalobo) It is an abandoned cacao plantation and is almost haunted. It stands out with its overgrown gardens and colonial architecture.  9. Whale Watching Off Príncipe: Best Enjoyed With Snorkeling And Diving Trips Humpback whales migrate to Príncipe through the waterways from July to September. Be a part of eco tours for respectful and sustainable viewing opportunities.  10. Rainforest Retreats At Sundy Praia: Perfect For Eco-Travelers Seeking Tranquility View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ramosdafrica (@ramosdafrica) Sundy Praia is a luxury tented villa in the rainforest of Príncipe. Enjoy yoga, guided nature walks, and conservation education. São Tomé And Príncipe Travel Planning Checklist Here is a list of things to do and things to avoid while planning a trip to São Tomé Eco-Lodges. Things to DoThings to Avoid• Checking visa requirements with the São Tomé embassy or consulate based on your nationality• Checking the availability of the co-lodges and booking them in advance• Plan your visit between June and October for wildlife watching.• Pack breathable clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and rain gear• Bring malaria prophylaxis, basic meds, and travel insurance.• Check the requirements for a yellow fever vaccination.• Consider the limited availability of domestic flights to Príncipe and book early.• Not all eco-lodges offer transfers. You may have to take shared minibuses and taxis. • Carry some Dobra (STN) for transactions in rural areas. • Portuguese is the official language.• Kafuka or community gatherings are special here.• Avoid single-use plastics and respect wildlife viewing guidelines.• Support community-led tours, conservation projects, and local artisans• Save maps, lodge contacts, and embassy info offline before arrival, as some places will have limited network connectivity.• Not all “eco-lodges” are truly sustainable.• Not looking for transparency in energy use, waste management, and community impact.• Not carrying Dobra (STN) or Euros in cash, as ATMs are limited and not all facilities accept cards.• Medical facilities are basic. So, not having travel insurance with medical coverage or not carrying a medical care box can be a big mistake. • Missing out on the local cooking classes or visiting the villages is a mistake. • Using single-use water bottles and leaving litter everywhere São Tomé Eco-Lodges Are More Than Just Places To Stay Supporting local communities Supporting environmental development Protecting biodiversity Experiencing the authentic charm of the islands These are the benefits of staying in the best São Tomé eco lodges. Furthermore, these lodges are diverse and they offer luxury, simplicity, or cultural immersion in the most responsible way.  So, get ready for the most immersive experience at the best São Tomé eco lodges! 

BY  Abdul Aziz Dec 1, 2023

For those who want to get away from city life, Scarborough's top attractions provide an amazing holiday experience. One of the most well-known coastal resort towns in England, it embodies the traditional historical charm. It is dotted with arcades, fish and chips, and waterfront parks. The essence of Scarborough is some of the nation's nicest beaches at the base of sheer cliffs. This seaside town in Yorkshire has the atmosphere of being stuck in the Victorian era. Perched atop the cliffs, the Grand Hotel commands attention from all directions. The Scarborough Spa continues to draw national visitors. The town's architecture is characterized by a lot of flamboyant buildings with a hospitable old-world charm. In this article, we will enumerate all the things to do in Scarborough you cannot miss. Things To Do In Scarborough Even with its historical vibe, Scarborough is still a lively and welcoming spot to spend a summer in England. South Bay Beach Scarborough's South Bay Beach is well-known for its soft sand, amusement arcades, donkey rides, and the Grand Hotel perched atop cliffs. Like a vacationer from the Victorian era, you can still take the historic cliff lifts from the hotel down to the beach. Though the North Sea is far less inviting, South Beach can be just as busy and enjoyable on a sunny summer's day as any beach in the Mediterranean. While it's usually acceptable to dangle your toes in, very few people go deeper than knee depth. North Bay Beach, located on the opposite side of the headland, has earned a Blue Flag designation for hygiene. Though it has fewer nearby attractions than South Bay Beach, it is usually busier on nice days. Rotunda Museum The exhibit at the Rotunda Museum covers the region's incredibly old history. The collection's highlights include a Bronze Age coffin, Stone Age tools, and dinosaur fossils. These intriguing objects are arranged in an equally intriguing and historic structure. One of the first purpose-built museums in history, the ancient circular structure with its trick-eye ceiling is just as fascinating to look at as the artifacts. The Scarborough Art Gallery, the famous Grand Hotel, the historic Spa Bridge that spans a valley with beautiful parkland, and the Rotunda Museum's distinctive exterior are all nearby. It's a major center of culture. Scarborough Market Hall & Vaults Renovated historically, the Scarborough Market Hall & Vaults houses a contemporary market with a nod to the past. There is local produce available in the main hall. It also has stalls offering handcrafted jewelry, presents, clothing, and artwork, among other items. Under the hall, in The Vaults, are more shops with a focus on antiques and handmade goods. In addition to being a place for shopping, Scarborough's market and hall also double as a cultural hub, hosting a calendar of special events. Additionally, there's a great food court with a view of the hallway. Scarborough Harbor Scarborough's historic harbor has long served as the city's center. It should come as no surprise that the harbor is home to several top-notch seafood restaurants, given that the fishermen still bring in their fresh catches on a daily basis. The classic fish and chips, which can be found at excellent establishments like Winking Willy's, First Catch, and Harbour View Café, is, of course, the dish of choice. As the name implies, Harbour View provides beautiful views of the old lighthouse across the protected moorings. You can help yourself to a traditional portion of English fish and chips wrapped in paper and savor it with a wooden fork. It is an English version of a takeout. A generous amount of vinegar gives the dish a unique tang and softens the crispy batter surrounding the flaky cod or haddock. Scarborough’s Old Town Not only do the winding old streets behind the harbor and South Bay Beach have a lovely, old-world charm, but they also have a fantastic assortment of stores and cafés. A few major high street names, such as Marks and Spencer and New Look, are present, but the bulk of the stores are tiny local businesses that sell some unusual and interesting goods. The selection of confectionery stores in Scarborough is particularly good. Seaside sticks of rock are boiled sugar candies is an English classic. There are plenty of other sweet options for you to choose from Additionally, there are a good number of casinos and amusement arcades. Stephen Joseph Theatre Scarborough boasts an active theater scene with a number of excellent locations scattered throughout the small town. The Stephen Joseph Theatre is one of the greatest. It's conveniently located next to the Scarborough Spa. They feature a combination of contemporary and classic shows, and the performances are excellent, even though it's unlikely that you'll see many well-known actors on stage. You won't have any trouble seeing or hearing the plays because of how small the theater itself is. There are several eateries close to the contemporary location, along with a decent bar and a small art gallery on the premises. When there isn't live action, the theater frequently screens old films and occasionally streams significant international events. Peasholm Park Peasholm Park offers both peaceful reflection and moments of excitement. During the summer (June to August), every Saturday at 3 p.m., model warships battle on the large lake near the beach, with the addition of aircraft and explosions to the action. You can rent a boat and go rowing around the large central island. It has a distinctive Japanese pagoda in the center when the miniature navies aren't in action. To explore the stunning hidden garden located at the other end of the park, stroll among the trees beside Peasholm Beck if you'd rather stay on dry land. Along the route, there are some exotic tree species like Chusan palms and American red oaks. Scarborough Spa Its distinctive history and location are what make this specific live music and events venue intriguing and worthwhile to visit. Constructed during the Victorian era, the spa is situated on the cliffs with a stunning view of South Bay Beach. Despite its historical appearance, it is equipped with contemporary amenities. One of the few seaside orchestras that still performs in the Spa plays lively classical music and classic oom-pah tunes under the sea breeze. It is a tradition they have brought down just like they did in the heyday of the town. It is a very memorable performance because of the setting, which can be either the Grand Hall or the suncourt. Since they only perform in the summer, make sure to schedule your travel and hotel well in advance. Wrapping Up The North Sea laps the picturesque, horseshoe-shaped bay at the heart of Scarborough. It is a seaside town, ruled over by a castle dating back to the 12th century. Over four centuries of sandy beaches, surfing, and hearty Yorkshire fare have made Scarborough a family favorite. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about things to do in Scarborough, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Things To Do In Leeds: Dive Into The Dynamic Heart Of Yorkshire Hidden Gems: Unearthing The Best Things To Do In Nottingham

BY  Sibashree Oct 16, 2025

I still remember the fresh breath of air as I opened the gates of the Villa Spectra. The lush green hills in the backdrop were inviting for an immediate stroll, while the Sun-drenched terrace was calling me to get soaked in the Tuscan Sun. Everything about the villa was very intimate and warm, and just the way I wanted. The serene setting and the luxury inside! Everything was worth the wait! Yes, I planned and dreamt of the day for five years, kept a separate savings account for the travel, and that’s a different story!  And I chose Le Collectionist villas because I wanted to soak in the luxury and richness Italy offers, with the history of the Gladiators and the Medici dukes and their sophisticated cultural landscape. I was in Italy for a trip of 15 days, and this is how the luxury villas and everything I saw became a part of my Roman Holiday. How Does History Speak Through The Alleys Of Rome? (With A Dash Of Luxury)  The history of Italy is layered. So, knowing about the history of Italy is not like visiting points A, B, and C. Whether it is the Leaning Tower of Pisa or the walled city of Lucca, each location has a story to share. Now, choosing Villa Spectra from Le Collectionist was again a brilliant choice for me, as their concierge services and local partners ensured access to the real narratives of the places. 1. Tuscany: When Light Teaches Patience And The Time Stands Still My mornings in Tuscany began with the slow rattle of shutters. From the kitchen window, cypress trees pointed like metronomes toward a pale sky. Furthermore, it was quite warm by the afternoon, and floating in the villa pool, reading, or catching up on the best delicacies were the best refuge I could think of. By dusk, I was out to see the color of Chianti. Seeing the sunset rays painting the houses while sipping a glass of Brunello was the ultimate Tuscan experience. The Val d'Orcia landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was the highlight of my Tuscan experience. Also, the overall Tuscan landscape looked like a Renaissance painting for me, with verdant hills and cypress trees. 2. Puglia: The Still Stones Carry The Secrets The dry stone architecture of Alberobello looked like the Sakshi or eternal witness I have read about in many Hindu texts. Now, thousands of miles away, I was connecting to my roots, and I had goosebumps thinking about the universality of the truth. Masseria Ozen was my home for the days in Puglia. 3. Amalfi Coast: Sniffing The Sea And Lemon Positano ridgelines and Amalfi were the highlights of my day in Amalfi. I had the most theatrical experience in Amafi amidst the whiff of lemon and white stones. My mornings here started with the sound of espresso spoons in the coffee cups and morning bells. Evenings were lazy, sipping on the sharpest Amalfi sherbet and watching the ferries passing. However, for me, the most exciting part was taking an after-hours walk with the villa concierge, taking us through Pompeii. The fresco colors were magical. 4. Rome And The Appian Way: Where History Speaks The villa I was staying in gave me access to the Appian Way through the garden gate. With the city still sleeping and the cold stones under my feet, it was like going many centuries back. I kept exploring, and when I reached the Villa dei Quintili ruins, the light had turned honey-gold. I sat on a fallen column and felt, absurdly, both guest and citizen of another age. Don’t Rush: Pick Your Favorite Zone In Italy  You cannot rush a holiday in Italy. Now, I was on a 15-day vacation, and that’s why I could touch upon many areas. However, with my trip ending, I realized that it was foolish of me. I should have focused on a distinct zone. Must-Visit Zones in Italy Highlights Puglia and Alberobello • Olive Groves • Trulli Districts • White Towns Rome and the Appian Way • Cecilia Metella • Villa dei Quintili Tuscany and Val d’Orcia • San Quirico • Montalcino • Pienza Amalfi Coast and Pompeii • Positano Ridgelines • Frescoes and Forums in Pompeii • Ravello • Amalfi Sardinia • Su Nuraxi Nuraghe Complex Venice and the Lagoon • Torcello’s Basilica Lake Como and Lombardy Villas • Alpine Views • Villas with Liberty-Style Architecture  Don’t Forget To Listen To The Hidden Narratives When visiting places such as Pompeii, the Val d’Orcia, or Puglia, there is much to explore beyond what meets the eye. For example, the graffiti of Pompeii features election advertisements, love notes, and more, indicating a complex past. On the other hand, the Val d’Orcia is a testament to the Renaissance urban planning. Again, the dry stone architecture of Puglia can be a lesson about how to defy gravity. Why I Chose Luxury Villas Le Collectionist? For Quiet Luxury And Love For History, Of Course  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Le Collectionist (@lecollectionist) I chose the Luxury villas Le Collectionist because I wanted to stay near the key attractions in Italy without the hassle of crowds. I wanted some quiet time, and the concierge team was very helpful in suggesting the right day and time to visit the important landmarks. They also helped me with the ticketing and stuff. Furthermore, they arranged special after-hours access for the villa residents. So, staying in the Le Collectionist luxury villas was not just about finding the most premium accommodation. They ensured access to a deeper and more convenient cultural exploration. How Can You Choose The Best Luxury Villas Italy Le Collectionist? The time of your visit (seasonality), the experience you want, the style of villas, and some non-negotiable attributes are the things to be considered when choosing the best luxury villa by Le Collectionist in Italy. Factors to Choose the Best Luxury Villa Details Type of Experience You Want • For farmhouse-like setups, choose villas in Tuscany. • If you want the dramatic experience of a cliff villa, choose one in Amalfi.The Style of Villas• When traveling solo or with your partner, a compact villa will be the best choice for you.• You will need a multi-suite villa when traveling with your family.Seasonality • In winter, the piazzas and museums of Rome are the go-to places. So, choose villas near them.• Furthermore, shoulder seasons are ideal for outdoor exploration. So, choosing a villa near the Amalfi Coast or near Tuscany will be a great choice.Non-Negotiable Attributes • Pools • Pergolas • Airconditioning • Water Facilities  What Are The Best Luxury Villas Italy Le Collectionist For History And Premium Experience Lovers? Here are the best Le Collectionist villas in Italy if you want to explore the history of the country and the dolce vita. 1. Villa Spectra, Tuscany  For me, Villa Spectra in Lucca was the main character of the Tuscan vacation story. The terrace and the living area of the villa gave me enough time and chances to soak in the Tuscan Sun. Villa Spectra has 5 bedrooms, and the charges are around $2400 per night. 2. Villa Masseria Ozen, Puglia  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mune_Architecture (@mune_architecture) Located in San Vito dei Normanni, Villa Masseria Ozen exudes a quintessential Italian charm.  For me, the highlight of the stay in Villa Masseria Ozen was the dinner under the stars. Masseria Ozen has five bedrooms, and the charges will be around $1400-1500 per night. 3. Villa Salvatore, Amalfi Coast  Within 300 meters of the Amalfi Coast, Villa Salvatore was my perfect home. The trees near the villa stretch down to the sea, and for me, the breakfast time on the terrace was amazing because of the stunning views around. Your stay at Villa Salvatore will cost around $3,665 per night. 4. Chalet Gatsby, Lake Como  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Le Collectionist (@lecollectionist) Chalet Gatsby looks over Lake Como, and this is precisely why I chose it. However, the villa has only five bedrooms. So, check availability or try early booking. The villa is also close to the village of Brunate. I loved the walk from the villa to the village in the morning and late afternoon. The tariff here will be around $1500-3000 per day. 5. Villa Limoncello, Florence  Villa Limoncello won me over with its serene location. Also, with an infinity pool, it made me wake to the sound of water. Furthermore, the hammam or the massage room was my favorite. This villa has seven bedrooms and five bedrooms, and the pocket pinch is $4,820 per night. Why Are Concierge Services Such A Big Deal?  The concierge services and assistance of these villas were the common threads among the places I visited in Italy. Here’s why they are so special. 1. Guides Who Teach You About Places  When I was in the Appian Way or Pompeii, the concierge service guides were like the mobile history books. 2. Makes Logistics Hassle-Free  With concierge services, I did not have to worry about the car rentals. The vetted drivers took me to the important locations. They know everything from ZTL boundaries, parking spaces, and drop-off timings. 3. Ensures Smooth Access Concierge services take advantage of the tie-ups, and booking is always done through official channels. So, the slot selection is clean, and you will get the best official discounts. Exploring Italy Without Stress: Be Smart With Logistic Planning  For Rome • Explore Appian Way places such as Aqueducts, Catacombs, and Quintili. Then, have a late lunch.• Wear sturdy shoes to walk comfortably on the basalt stones.Tuscany Days • Explore Val d’Orcia and don’t plan visiting more than two hill towns.Amalfi Coast • Avoid traffic with boat rides. Visit Pompeii early in the morning or late.Puglia • Visit Alberobello in the early morning.• Hit the beach at noon.• Have dinner under the vines. My 15-Day Travel Itinerary In Italy This is how my itinerary for the 15-day vacation in Italy looked. Days Activities Day 1 - Arriving in Lake Como • Traveling from Milan to Lake Como• Lakefront lunch• Boat ride to Varenna & Villa Monastero• Dinner at Villa• Watching Mirrored Lake at DawnDay 2 - Heart of Como • Visiting Villa del Balbianello• Having lunch in Menaggio by Lake Como• Riva boat tour • Spa in the evening• Aperitivo dinner in the villa Day 3 - Milan Excursion • Traveling to Milan• Visiting the Brera • District and The Last Supper Museum • Lunch at Marchesi 1824• Returning to Como Day 4 - Verona & Valpolicella • Driving east from Milan to Verona & Valpolicella• Visiting the vineyard villa near Negrar• Visiting Juliet’s balcony and Valpolicella wine tasting in the afternoon• Dinner under vines with Amarone & Tiramisù Day 5 - Venice Arrival • Reaching Venice and enjoying a water taxi ride to the Grand Canal Villa• Dorsoduro stroll in the afternoon• Sunset gondola ride• Seafood dinner at Alle Testiere Day 6 - Florence • Taking the train from Venice to Florence• Private Uffizi tour in the morning• Watching the sunset on Ponte VecchioDay 7 - Chianti Wine Route • Taking a vineyard drive from Greve to Radda on the Chanti Wine Route• Enjoying rustic trattoria lunch• Spending the evening in the villa by the poolside Day 8 - Val d’Orcia • Exploring Val d’Orcia • Moving South to Pienza Villa • Exploring Montepulciano • Attending local cooking classes Day 9 - Rome Arrival • Beginning of the Roman Story• Driving to the Appian Way Villa• Explore Villa dei Quintili and Cecilia Metella. Day 10 - The Eternal City • Early tour to the Vatican City• Having coffee at Piazza Navona• Visiting Pantheon, Trevi, and the Spanish Steps• Enjoying a terrace dinner in the villa Day 11 - Amalfi Arrival • Reaching Positano via Naples• The signature welcome at Villa Limoncello• Relaxing by the poolside• Having a seafood dinner Day 12 - Coastline by Sea • Boat to Capri & Grottoes • Having a Picnic with Champagne• Watching Sunset• Relaxing at Night in a Jacuzzi Day 13 - Pompeii & Vesuvius • Private archaeologist-led tour• Vineyard lunch & Lacryma Christi tasting• Swimming in the evening Day 14 - Puglia • Villa Check-In• Traveling to Bari• Visiting Trulli Dinner in the Olive Grove Day 15 - It’s a Wrap • Visiting Ostuni after an early breakfast• Lunch and Sunset Drink• Destination: Bari International Airport-Karol Wojtyla  Local Secrets That No One Talks About The Val d’Orcia farmhouse owners explain the aging of the cheese served. So, you not only have the best cheese, but also an anecdote to take home. You have to plan your sleeping hours based on the location you are visiting. Puglia is the most beautiful in the twilight hours, and the Val d’Orcia ridge or the Appian Way are great for early walks. Once again, keep the official links of the tickets booked, offline maps, and documents handy. Moreover, avoid overscheduling, as driving and the distinct experiences at different locations require time. In addition, remember which area is suitable for what type of traveler. Have a look at the table below for a better understanding. Places to Visit in Italy Suitable for Travel Groups Nearby Heritage or UNESCO Sites Rome and The Appian Way History Enthusiasts and Families The Appian Way is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Places to Visit here are:• Tomb of Cecilia Metella • Circus of Maxentius • Appia Antica Villas • The Catacombs of San Callisto Amalfi (Amalfi Coast, Positano and Ravello) Photographers and Couples • The cultural landscape of the Amalfi Coast PugliaFamilies and Multi-generational Groups • Alberobello Tuscany Road Trips • Val d’Orcia Sardinia Cultural Enthusiasts and Coastal Holidayers• Su Nuraxi Nuraghe Complex  With Sustainability And Etiquettes In Mind…  Italy is the country of ancient ruins. So, while exploring archaeological or historical places, you must be very careful and respect the barriers as explained by the guides and officials. Furthermore, opt for concierge services and travel in the early hours to avoid the rush in these cultural and historical places. Take help from licensed guides to help the local community and listen to stories that only locals know. Visiting Rome And Staying In Luxury Villas Italy Le Collectionist: FAQs Here are some frequently asked questions and answers. 1. What Is The Best Time To Visit Pompeii?  Yes, Pompeii is a year-round destination. However, if you want to enjoy mild weather conditions, visit Pompeii in the shoulder seasons, such as September to October and April to May. 2. Why Is Trulli So Famous?  Trulli, a place of great cultural importance, is famous as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The stone huts here are whitewashed, and they have conical roofs.The architecture of these huts represents the quintessential architectural style of the Puglia Region. 3. Is There Any Resource To Learn About The Landscape Of Tuscany?  Yes, you can read the UNESCO World Heritage Convention page on Val d’Orcia and other heritage sites to have the historical or cultural background and context about them.  4. What Is The Best Villa-Based Experience Near Rome? You will find the Villa dei Quintili while driving on the Appian Way. The vast ruins get fewer crowds compared to other historical zones in Central Rome.You can keep an offline leaflet handy, as the mobile network may not work here.