Italy is a top-rated country to visit for most. Knowing where to start is challenging, with so much to do and see. Enter Candy Valentino, a travel, food, and fashion influencer from Italy. We caught Candy between her trips to discover what makes her Timeless and asked her to share a few “must-sees and must-do” when touring her home country.
Q: What makes you Timeless?
A: I’ve always been curious, which has benefitted me in many ways. I love to move around and have unique experiences wherever I go. I avoid having similar days, which I find boring.
Q: How do you feel traveling has affected your life?
A: It’s good for the soul, the heart, and the mind. Traveling opened my mind and changed my attitude toward different cultures and people. I’ve been immersed in experiences I would never have had if it weren’t for traveling.
Q: What is your favorite mode of transportation and why?
A: I love traveling by train. Mostly because I can admire the landscape and beautiful scenery from the window. It also allows me to be productive and creative. I often write while traveling by train.
Q: In the past year, what was your favorite destination?
A: This is always a difficult question because I travel a lot. If I had to narrow it down, I’d say Capri Island in Italy and New York for my international journey—two very different experiences yet unique and special in their ways.
Q: What is a hidden gem in Italy you would encourage people to visit?
A: In my blog, I always encourage Italian and foreign people to discover some hidden gems in the country, and we have many! One example is the small and precious town of Castel San Pietro Terme, with its incredible landscape, wineries, dairy, and spa.
Q: If you could name 5 things you must see in Italy, what would they be?
A: Italy has so much history and many beautiful monuments, making it hard to name only 5 “must-see” places. If I had to narrow it down, these should be on everyone’s list: 1) Fontana di Trevi (Trevi Fountain) in Rome, 2) Piazza del Duomo (Cathedral Square) in Florence, 3) Torre di Pisa (Leaning Tower of Pisa) in Pisa, 4) Ponte Rialto (Rialto Bridge) in Venice, and 5) Tuerredda Beach in Sardinia.
Q: If you could name 3 foods you must try in Italy, what would they be?
A: As a first course, everyone should taste one of the most famous plates of pasta from the south, orecchiette alle cime di rapa. It is simply delicious. Artisanal Grissini from Piedmont is a light, airy, crisp Italian breadstick. They are delightful snacks. Lastly, a Granita from Sicily is the best for a cold, refreshing sweet treat.
Q: Of the hotels in Italy, which has been your favorite place to stay?
A: This is a tough choice. The last one I loved was Mama Shelter in Prati district, Rome. It’s a wonderful neighborhood hotel with unique decor and amenities and just steps from the Vatican treasures.
Q: What is your dream destination?
A: I have many! In Italy, I’d love to visit Favignana Island, Sicily. Abroad, I would like to visit Pamukkale, Bodrum, and Istanbul in Turkey.
Candy Valentino is well-versed in touring Italy and will guide you to the best restaurants and locations via her blog. It doesn’t hurt to pick up a few hints and tips from an expert when traveling. You can also follow Candy via Instagram @candy_valentino.
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