There is something lurking in the trees outside of the small, quiet town of Bomarzo, Italy. Something old, something lost to time, something monstrous! Known by many as Sacro Bosco [Sacred Wood], this extensive collection of monstrous forms tucked into the lower Tiber River Valley is the world’s oldest sculpture park.

Often called the Gateway to the Dolomites, Bolzano is the largest city in South Tyrol and a charming escape for anyone in the mood for an Italian autumn adventure! From street vendors selling hot roasted chestnuts to hidden wine bars and looming castles, Bolzano in Autumn is truly an indulgence worth savoring.

To be born into a contrada, be it Giraffa (Giraffe), Drago (Dragon), or Nicchio (Shell), means to be baptized in its church, to bear its colors, and to represent its history at festivals and ceremonies of distinction. It is this engrained fealty to community and even familial lineage which makes the city’s famous bi-annual horse race, il Palio, an event charged with deep emotion and immense rivalry.

If you’ve been to Italy, then you’ve likely taken part in the age-old tradition of the evening aperitivo, and odds are high that your drink of choice was the classic Aperol Spritz. With its eye-catching orange color hinting at a profile of sugary citrus, it has undoubtedly lured many a sweet-toothed travelers into a false sense of security only to deliver a sharp and bitter taste. If you’re looking for a sweeter alternative then there is only one question to ask : Have you heard about Hugo?

With nearly 25% of this small region dedicated to forest preserves, Umbria is a lush and shaded gem at the core of Italy - a perfect place for unearthing other-worldy finds and serene escapes.

Set in the inland expanse of Campania, Limatola is a small town of approximately 4,000 residents and is finely accentuated by the jutting profile of its castle - Castello di Limatola. Built by the Normans in the 12th century, it now stands as a beautiful focal point of the area and serves as a hotel, venue space, and host to the annual Cadeaux al Castello Christmas Market. While a wonderful destination for the market alone, an overnight weekend stay at the castle is recommended to fully enjoy the splendor of the event. Besides, when else will you be able to stay the night in a Christmas Castle?

If you want a good carbonara, you go to Rome, If you want to learn about the Italian Renaissance you go to Florence, but where do you go if you want an antique map of Italy or a pair of 19th century gold cufflinks? The answer: Arezzo.

The history of coffee in Italy is rooted in affordability - even today a quick dose of espresso will cost you little more than one euro at the average bar. The popularity of the drink as an affordable ritual has predictably enshrined its place in the hearts, minds, and routines of millions of Italians, thus making the thought of going without it near sacrilegious.

It is no secret that Americans love their coffee. Tall, grande, venti, sugar soaked or black, hot or iced - at the end of the day we’re just glad to get it in our bloodstream. It’s often the final incentive that gets us fumbling out of bed most mornings and carries us through the mid-day doldrums. In the land of Capitalism, coffee has found a place and a purpose: driving productivity.