“What’s your favourite place?” – a question I’ve been asked more times than I can recall over the years, and one that’s nearly impossible to answer. So, I’ve made a list that spans the globe, from Aachen to Zurich and every letter in between: My ABCs, though are not nearly as simple as 1-2-3. Today, I is all about Italy:

Like France previously, it’s virtually impossible to identify just one destination in Italy as a favourite. Almost anywhere will do.

From Lake Como in the north to Sicily in the south there is so just much to choose. In between, how about the Cinque Terra, Florence, Pisa, Siena, Tuscany, Rome, Rome! (I say again), Naples, Pompeii, Sorrento, Capri and the Amalfi Coast, to name a few?

Rome

But if put to the sword, then I’ll settle on Venice. Sure, it can be over-crowded, dirty and expensive, but the city is nevertheless utterly magical and unlike anywhere else in the world – a place everyone should visit at least once.

Canal views are exquisite, and requisite, as is famed St. Mark’s Square (even if it might soak your sneakers), but just a block or two back from the city’s watery main thoroughfare is another world – of quiet lanes, arched bridges, flower boxes, piazzas and pizzas (in cafés), and a million small details that can intrigue and inspire for hours. Get lost, you’ll always find your way back – eventually. And find a room and stay overnight when the hoards have retreated and see the city reveal itself anew by the light of the moon.

Honourable mention: Ireland
Bucket list: Iceland, India

Unlike the song, I have not been everywhere, so please don’t wonder why one of your favourites wasn’t one of mine. Instead, tell me at baginski@travelindustrytoday.com. I’m already thinking about my next list.

Stay tuned to future issues for the rest of the list. And for previous entries, click HERE.