logo
I went to Italy for the first time and left with 5 big regrets

I went to Italy for the first time and left with 5 big regrets

Yahooa day ago
I took my first trip to Italy in October 2022, visiting Venice, Rome, and Milan.
I made some mistakes when booking and planning my trip that made it less fulfilling.
During the six-day trip, I regretted being an annoying tourist and visiting hot spots.
I never thought I'd be that annoying tourist until one afternoon in Venice, Italy. I never imagined I would regret touring the Colosseum in Rome. I couldn't have predicted I'd feel sour about spending one night in Milan.
But as I've learned as a travel reporter, I make mistakes every time I visit a new place. My first visit to Italy was in October 2022 during a two-week backpacking trip through Europe. I traveled by train to four countries and spent six days exploring three Italian cities — Venice, Rome, and Milan.
I had an amazing vacation, but it could have been even more fulfilling and sustainable if I'd known a few things beforehand.
Squeezing three cities into a six-day trip was my first mistake.
With three destinations to visit in six days, my trip to Italy felt like a race. It started with a two-night stay in Venice, and before I knew it, I was off to Rome. Roughly 48 hours later, I was on the train to Milan, where I spent just one night before hopping on a train to another European city.
Traveling too quickly made me feel like I was always rushing. Going all the way to Milan for a single night didn't satisfy me. If I had selected just one destination, I would have been more present during my trip — and more environmentally conscious.
Justin Francis, cofounder of the UK-based sustainable vacation company Responsible Travel, previously told Business Insider that longer stays are better for the planet than quick visits.
"Fewer but longer trips mean fewer air miles, more money in local hands, and you'll have a more relaxing trip, too," Francis said.
I thought visiting in October would help me avoid crowds. I was wrong.
Traveling to Europe in the summer doesn't seem like a good idea. During peak season, the continent's hottest destinations are overwhelmed with tourists.
So I thought booking my trip in October, during shoulder season (the time between peak and off-seasons) would help me avoid long lines and obstructed views.
Well, I was wrong. In Venice and Rome, I shuffled down cobblestone streets with pedestrian traffic jams. I dragged my feet over tourist-packed bridges. I viewed ancient sites like the Colosseum through the phone screens of people standing in front of me.
It seems the word is out about shoulder season. So next time I go to Italy, I'll take a winter trip.
In Venice, I shouldn't have booked my stay outside the city.
Spending three nights in a castle for $360 was an offer I couldn't pass up. After all, it was a unique opportunity to sleep like a queen in the tower of Castello di Roncade, which was only a half-hour drive from Venice.
Though my stay was marvelous and a steal for the price point, I felt regret after learning that daytrippers can worsen overtourism in places like Venice by adding to the crowds without spending on accommodations. By not spending the night in the city itself, I wasn't contributing as much as I could have to the local economy.
I should have researched etiquette before my trip.
When it comes to tourism etiquette, I was wrong to assume my own sense of common courtesy would serve me well.
After a walking tour in Venice, I hoped to sit down for lunch, but all the restaurants I passed were packed. Hungry and hot, I eventually cut my losses and stood in line for gelato before sitting on a shaded step to enjoy it.
As I was about to take my first bite, the nearby authorities waved their hands up and down at me — a gesture I could only take to mean "get up."
And there I was, committing an etiquette violation that, according to the City of Venice, may result in a fine.
If I could do it again, I'd be more aimless.
In Rome and Venice, I had a rigid schedule. I booked tours and planned every hour of my day to see as many highlights as possible. Every place I ventured to was one I'd seen repeatedly in films and on Instagram. Seeing these famous places in person was fascinating, but I felt like I was missing out on a sense of wonder.
When I got to Milan, I dropped the agenda and walked around the city in hopes of discovering something myself.
It paid off. I stumbled upon a 15th-century castle I'd never seen on social media — Castello Sforzesco. Walking through the gate, I felt like I'd stepped into a fairy tale. Brick walls and towers lush with overgrown vines surrounded me.
Exploring the grounds of this castle was more fulfilling than the gondola ride in Venice or the Colosseum tour in Rome. And I think that's because I wasn't expecting it.
Next time I go to Italy, I'll make time to find more surprises.
Read the original article on Business Insider
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Former Ryder Cup captain to help lay out new golf course in Wisconsin
Former Ryder Cup captain to help lay out new golf course in Wisconsin

USA Today

time42 minutes ago

  • USA Today

Former Ryder Cup captain to help lay out new golf course in Wisconsin

Wisconsin native and former Ryder Cup captain Steve Stricker will serve as a player consultant on a new course to be built in the southern section of the state less than an hour from Milwaukee. Stricker will join forces with Jackson Kahn Design and architect Scott Hoffman to lay out what will be become the private Kettle Forge in Ashippun. Wisconsin already is one of the best golf states in the U.S., especially on the public-access side with destinations such as Whistling Straits and the other courses at Kohler, Sand Valley and Erin Hills. Kettle Forge, with an anticipated opening in 2027, is about eight miles west of Erin Hills, which hosted the 2015 U.S. Open as well as this year's U.S. Women's Open. Nebraska-based Landscapes Unlimited will build the course on 270 acres. Its sister company, Landscapes Golf Management, will operate the club as well as oversee the course grow-in and handle membership sales at Kettle Forge. 'This is pure, unadulterated golf without tennis and swimming,' Bill Kubly – chairman of Landscapes Unlimited, a principal of Kettle Forge and a Wisconsin native – said in a media release announcing the course. 'Based on our work at Lost Rail outside Omaha, Kettle Forge is likely to reach a full membership before the course opens.' The Kettle in the name refers to local glacial kettles (steep-sided hollows) and mounds in the landscape. Holes on the 7,600-yard course will traverse wetlands and feature wide fairways across dramatic elevation changes. The clubhouse and guest cottages will be located atop a big hill with 20-mile panoramic views. 'Kettle Forge will uniquely look like a natural preserve with grasses, wildflowers and wetlands,' Brett Craig – a Wisconsin resident, former president and COO of Transitions Optical and a principal of Kettle Forge – said in the media release. 'It promises to be a course that attracts repeat play – fair to members yet exhilaratingly difficult for those who desire challenge amid rugged elegance and timeless appeal.'

Top 6 must-try Middle Eastern cafés in Charlotte
Top 6 must-try Middle Eastern cafés in Charlotte

Axios

time42 minutes ago

  • Axios

Top 6 must-try Middle Eastern cafés in Charlotte

The Charlotte area is gaining a number of culturally rich coffee shops — from late-night cups of joe to traditional cuisine, here are six Middle Eastern spots worth visiting. Qamaria This new Yemeni coffee shop opens in University City on Aug. 22. Stop by: 9325 JW Clay Blvd. next to Crazy Legs. Free parking is available in the parking deck of the JW Clay Station light rail stop. It'll be open 7am to midnight on weekdays and 7am–1am on Fridays and Saturdays. Vavela Cafe This locally owned Turkish coffee shop is open late in University City. Stop by: 440 E. McCullough Drive, on the second floor of McCullough Commons, above Mike's Vegan Grill. Open Sunday through Thursday 7am–1am and Friday and Saturday 7am–2am. Charlotte's first Yemeni coffee shop now has multiple locations in the area. Open Monday through Friday 6am–11pm and Saturday and Sunday 7am–11pm. Qahwah House This Yemeni coffee shop chain is in Plaza Midwood where Stroke used to be. Stop by: 1318 Pecan Ave. Open Sunday through Thursday 7am–11pm and Friday and Saturday 7am to midnight. This locally owned Turkish cafe in north Charlotte focuses on traditional pastries and dishes. Stop by: 1520 Overland Park Lane, in the former Jazzy Cheesecakes spot. Open Monday 8am–9pm, closed Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 8am–9pm, Friday 8am–10pm, Saturday 9am–10pm and Sunday 9am–9pm. This Yemeni restaurant and cafe in east Charlotte stays open until 1am. Stop by: 3145 N. Sharon Amity Road. Open daily 9am–1am. Haraz will open its third location at Verde at McCullough Station in University City, and a Michigan-based Yemeni coffee shop called Bayt Al Mocha is expected to open in NoDa.

Taking Flight From the (Empty) Nest
Taking Flight From the (Empty) Nest

Los Angeles Times

time2 hours ago

  • Los Angeles Times

Taking Flight From the (Empty) Nest

The kids are away at college. The dog's schedule has become the central focus. And suddenly, dream destinations that were once just that – a figment of a harried mind – are a very real possibility. The nest is empty for you and your partner, and so thinking up that next vacation isn't just about traveling; it's about choosing where you go with intention. To savor this freedom, plan your trips well in advance. That careful planning allows for a slower, more meaningful experience and helps you make the most of every trip. The world is waiting for you to see it on your own terms, with that newly freed schedule and a big contented sigh of relief in tow. There's nothing quite like the feeling of the years building, supporting, and giving to your loved ones, but ... treat yourself! It's time to reap a collection of moments that are also beautiful and fulfilling. To that end, take a look at these four distinct trips that perfectly encapsulate this spirit. Each is best enjoyed when thoughtfully planned in advance (you have time to do that now!), so you can fully embrace the journey at your own pace. For new empty nesters, travel now means less stress, more enjoyment and the freedom to immerse yourself deeply in every experience. Let's start by making the case for the burgeoning 'slow travel' movement, and how Sicily checks all of its boxes. Forget that whirlwind tour of Europe with the whole family in tow, methodically plodding through a list of sights in a blur while not forming memories. This is about savoring, be it the sights, the sounds, or, since we're talking Italy here, the tastes! Sicily's pace of life befits this style of travel perfectly. In Palermo, coffee isn't 'to go.' It's served with eye contact and conversation. It's this feeling of connection and presence that makes it so appealing. The island delivers an authentic sensory experience that can renew relationships (with both your significant other and travel). In the vibrant capital of Palermo, you can find yourself in the bustling street markets, examining ancient Byzantine mosaics or indulging in meals that celebrate the island's rich culinary history, offering the feeling that you're a million miles away – even if you miss the house and the dog. From there, the Sicilian countryside beckons for a week of pure serenity and reset. This is where you'll find world-class wines, boat trips along the coast and stays in beautiful agriturismi. These country estates make a stay feel like you've actually moved in. Compared to a hotel or renting a house, these accommodations offer a unique blend of privacy, comfort and cultural immersion. Spending these several weeks in Sicily allows for a deeper connection with the community and locals in whole, giving you time to meet up, make connections or find out about locals events. Learn a bit of conversational Italian and talk with local people where they are authentic insights into their way of life. This is slow travel, a chance to actually experience a place, not just glance it. For those who have always dreamt of Africa, centrally located Botswana ranks among the ultimate safari experiences. This is the kind of trip for the empty nesters who crave an authentic encounter with the wildest of wildlife, not just crowded photo ops and harried jumps from place to place. The key to Botswana's appeal is its commitment to an intimate experience away from the crowd – it's a conservation-forward country that prioritizes low-impact, high-end experiences, ensuring unspoiled encounters while supporting the local community through responsible tourism. The Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is considered a 'water wonderland' and one of the crown jewels of the African wilderness. It's home to some of the most unique wildlife in Africa, from familiar standouts like lions and elephants to a surprising – and dazzling – array of bird species. The magic of these Botswana-style safaris is that you're not just crashing around in a Jeep chasing the next animal sighting; instead, you're gliding silently through the water in a mokoro, or traditional canoe, a much more tranquil experience. This creates a sense of being one with the ecosystem rather than just a (noticeable) observer. Another option is to soar above it all on a helicopter flight, which offers a breathtaking bird's-eye view of the vast landscapes. Or. for the adventureous looking to stretch their legs. embark on a walking safari to notice all the small details you might otherwise miss while traveling at speed. These safari trips are all elevated by exclusive, eco-conscious lodges that blend seamlessly into the environment and the culture. Interacting with local people, such as knowledgeable guides and friendly staff, provides guests with a deeper understanding and appreciation of their surroundings and the drive to preserve such spaces. The comfort and quality of the experience are paramount: from the luxury of the lodges and the fact that you're with a small, curated group to gleaning your guides' expertise, all the details – from the food to the wildlife encounters – are top-notch. Sometimes, taking a trip is simply for unapologetic self-care, and now that the kids are out of the house, you've earned it. You needn't fly halfway around the world to find it, either – the beauty of the Arizona desert provides the perfect backdrop for introspection and renewal just hours away. Road trip! The state is home to world-renowned wellness resorts – places like Canyon Ranch and Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa. These destinations are not just a typical hotel/spa affair; they offer unique accommodations that go beyond standard rooms, like casitas or private suites – all designed for privacy and tranquility. In short, these accommodations are personal sanctuaries designed with healing in mind. Each property offers a unique blend of elegance, tranquility, that all-important high staff-to-guest ratio and a personalized rejuvenation experience. Here, luxury lies in the idea that distractions are minimal and 'me time' is paramount, all allowing you to simply focus on yourselves. You can also join group wellness activities or classes, such as yoga sessions or guided meditation, connecting with others on a similar journey. Imagine a hot stone massage followed by a mindful hike through the stunning desert landscape, all while enjoying delicious, healthy food prepared with your well-being in mind. This is a fantastic 'no regrets' splurge. It's an investment in your long-term health and well-being, a way to hit the reset button and re-emerge feeling physically and mentally renewed. This trip might be the pinnacle of that rare combination of adventurous travel and luxe creature comforts. The Galapagos Islands are the home of incredible wildlife and natural beauty – a true living laboratory of evolution. If you want the max enjoyment for the long travel time, a small-ship cruise is truly the only way to travel. The magic lies in the size of the vessels. Small ships (think: 20-100 guests onboard) not only offer a more intimate and personalized experience, they're also permitted to visit more remote islands that larger vessels can't reach, giving you a richer and less crowded wildlife encounter. Onboard a luxury yacht (like the offerings from Relais & Châteaux) you'll find spacious cabins, gourmet dining and personalized service that makes you feel like a true VIP. The trips are guided by expert naturalists who are passionate about the islands' unique ecosystems, making the experience both educational and awe-inspiring. As a guest, you can join guided excursions or group activities each day, such as spying with playful sea lions, watching magnificent frigatebirds puffing their scarlet throats and trodding among giant tortoises that roam these special islands. You'll also have the chance to talk with expert naturalists or fellow guests, deepening your understanding of the Galápagos' wonders. This is a bucket-list trip that is both thrilling and completely comfortable – unpack once, settle in and let the adventure unfold around you. Traveling by small ship allows for a more immersive experience, letting you truly connect with the islands and their wildlife. It's a wonderful way to feel like a true explorer, but with the added bonus of a hot tub on the top deck to relax in as the sun sets over the Pacific. This trip is for travelers who want to bear witness to the extraordinary without sacrificing any of those comforts they expect from a luxe stay: that 'stay' just happens to be mobile! Prep for Success: Planning this next trip doesn't have to be overwhelming: Simply begin by thinking about just what kind of adventure you're craving. Once you've chosen your destination, research local hotels, amenities and activities that match your interests – and it never huts to ask family or friends for their favorite destinations. Whether you're looking for a lively city with world-class restaurants or a quiet town where you can unwind, a little planning goes a long way. Overcoming Travel Anxiety: Even the most seasoned travelers can feel a bit anxious before a big trip, and maybe it's been a long time since you've traveled long distance or even taken a trip with just you and your partner. Whether it's the thought of navigating a new city or simply being away from the comforts of home, travel anxiety is completely normal. The key is to focus on the present moment – enjoying each new experience as it comes, rather than worrying about what might go wrong. Stay connected with loved ones back home to share your adventures and keep your spirits high. Make sure to get plenty of rest, eat well too – sometimes that can make a huge enjoyment difference. And most of all, take the time for yourself – you've earned it.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store