Rebecca Hanson

Translating to “the sweetness of doing nothing,” il dolce far niente can be lived and fully enjoyed throughout Italy. But, in Sicily, one can feel it to the core - long lunches under lemon trees, easy aperitivos in a neighborhood piazza, late nights on a terrace. I had the opportunity to take a summer sabbatical a few years ago - and Sicily was my destination. Although part of Italy, Sicily is totally autonomous region and has a personality entirely of its own - its terrain, cuisine, dialect and pace. Sicily is distinct; it is an island that compares to no other with stunning archaeological sites, pulsing outdoor markets, wonderfully proud people and stunning vistas. It is a place where women can travel da sola and also where couples and families are warmly welcomed.

Tuscany is a region of Italy with so many discoveries to fall upon — small hill towns like Monteriggioni and Pitigliano, stunning vistas and local specialties. It's a place to take your time, enjoy picnics overlooking the rolling hills and treat yourself to vin santo at the end of a fabulous dinner. I studied in Siena decades ago and continue to return year after year. I've curated a short list of my favorite Tuscan specialties and where to find them.

A region of Italy with so many hidden gems — small hill towns, vineyards, stunning sites and local specialities — Tuscany is best explored in a slow pace. It's a place to take your time, enjoy long lunches and, in short, live "dolce far niente" (the sweetness of doing nothing; sweet idleness). I studied in Siena decades ago and continue to return as often as possible. I've curated a short list of my favorites from local eateries with shared tables to the best shops for hand-painted ceramics.

The food scene in the Eternal City will not disappoint - but you’ve got to have the inside scoop to score the best morning espresso, Michelin-worthy ricotta torts and the creamiest carbonara. My selections are for foodies looking for neighborhood haunts loved by locals (nothing too fancy), and based on my years living in this dynamic city. Rome is a city brimming with art, architecture and archeological wonders, so you can easily map out an "eat and tour" itinerary!

You’ve visited Porto and Lisbon, why not head south to a special boutique property in the south of the country? That's what I did! Nestled in the small village of Melides, Christian Louboutin's boutique Vermelho Hotel offers an intimate experience with 13 guest rooms with the local craftsmanship of distinctive works of art, handpicked by Louboutin. “Vermelho” (meaning “red” in Portuguese) is the creation of Christian Louboutin and is the epitome of a designer hotel. Glossy red tiles, an homage to the designer’s red bottom shoes, adorn the lobby and the bar.

I first lived on my own in Florence three decades ago when I decided to take a year “off” before matriculating to college. Much has changed since 1992 in this quintessentially Renaissance city, yet so much has remained - hidden gems of every sort, from hole-in-the-wall restaurants and a treasured art supply store founded in the 1800s to a bespoke luxury stationer preferred by Popes.

The AlmaLusa Baixa/Chiado (Lisbon), with its 28 rooms and suites, is located in a central, yet whisper-quiet square of the city — Praça do Município. Cars are not permitted in the beautifully serene plaza (making it quiet, relaxed) aside from taxis dropping off people at the hotel and cars using the underground garage. You’ll enjoy wonderful cuisine (and a wonderful wine menu) at Delfina - Cantina Portuguesa, with a beautiful view of the peaceful plaza from the patio seating.

I lived in Rome for several years and whenever I return I love to stay at a hotel near the Pantheon because of its neighborhood feel and proximity to Piazza Navona, the Trevi Fountain and Campo dei Fiori. Plus, some of my favorite truly Roman trattorias (Maccheroni, Ginger) cafes (Tazza d’Oro) and specialty shops are a short walk from Piazza Rotunda (where the Pantheon is located). Nothing beats early morning or late evening walks by this masterpiece constructed by Emperor Hadrian in 126 AD. There are wonderful hotels near the Pantheon and many with sensational rooftop terraces with views of the architectural marvel - at a range of price points. One is a property that has always been a treat and the other two are properties where I laid my head as a student of archaeology.

You’ve visited Porto and Lisbon. Why not head south to a special boutique property in Melides? Vermelho. Nestled in the small village of Melides, Christian Louboutin's boutique Vermelho Hotel offers an intimate experience offering 13 unique guest rooms with the local craftsmanship of distinctive works of art, handpicked by Louboutin. “Vermelho” (meaning “red” in Portuguese) is the creation of Christian Louboutin and is the epitome of a designer hotel. Glossy red tiles - an homage to the designer’s red bottom shoes - adorn the lobby and the bar.

First things first, this is such a peaceful property - quiet and calm. With only 32 rooms and spacious open courtyards, Can Ferrereta is hidden behind a huge set of doors on a narrow street… once those doors open, it’s a dream! This is a property where you will decompress completely - cue breezy tall grass and cypress bordering the pool, super fluffy duvets and a bathroom stocked with artisanal perfumes and fresh flowers. The food is excellent - I don’t think I’ve had a better pizza (with the exception of Naples), chorizo and fresh cheese board with an amazing wine pairing - kind, gentle service.

Note: No children under 14 years.

Mallorca, a ruggedly stunning island in the Mediterranean, provides the perfect escape for those looking for a true retreat, an adventurous holiday and everything in between. It’s an island that boasts stunning scenery, picturesque beaches with crystal-clear waters, a top-notch culinary scene, fun weekly markets and diverse sites to visit and tour (from Roman ruins to the Miro Foundation). Whether you're looking for a few days of relaxation, a romantic getaway, or a week of adventurous diving, biking and hiking, Mallorca has it all.

The central coast of California should not be overlooked with its remarkable scenery and unique character. Very much the laidback sister to Napa and Sonoma Valleys, San Luis Obispo (SLO) and Paso Robles (Paso) are towns with totally distinct personalities, and you'll fall in love with their easy feel and tranquil settings.

I was first introduced to SLO when a close friend had had enough of the Hollywood scene and decided to re-root in this special town. Boasting rolling hills and sprawling vineyards near a gorgeous (and varied) coastline, you will marvel at the low-key vibes of this university town (Cal Poly). Just 30 miles north lies Paso Robles (The Pass of the Oaks) with its beautiful, shady town square and easy pace. Paso is very much a cowboy town which makes it markedly different from the hippie vibe of SLO. I was fortunate enough to spend an entire summer on the Central Coast a few years ago and enjoyed long morning walks along the coast, lazy afternoons at vineyards and award-winning meals at food trucks and Michelin-starred restaurants. The Central Coast of California is a foodie’s dream, that is if you prefer to spend the afternoon at a farmer's market and wear jeans to dinner.

With its broad avenues and sprawling expanse, the Eternal City can be overwhelming to any visitor - especially if you don’t have much time to visit the endless number of archaeological sites, countless museums dedicated to every era of Roman history and a never-ending list of churches and chapels (not to mention the Vatican!). Below are a few ideas for making Rome a bit more “manageable” if you only have a few days in the capital city (or if you are traveling with children). As a former resident of Rome (and Florence), I continue to discover eateries to enjoy a casual lunch and fun places for an aperitif - either on my own or with family and friends.