Rome’s most fun local guide for the Colosseum and Rome with kids
Let me introduce you to Mariaclaudia. You’ll find her recommended in all the family-focused Facebook travel groups, and for good reason. I recently spent an afternoon photographing a family enjoying one of her tours and like all the reviews you read, I can’t recommend her highly enough. She’s fun, she can adapt to connect with family members of all ages (even your teenagers!) and personalities on her tour, and most of all, she leaves you feeling that little bit more knowledgable but still wanting to know more, without the overwhelm. A feeling that is sure to encourage your children to continue their learning.
Tuscany’s most beautiful family-friendly Agriturismo: Al Gelso Bianco
Whether you're envisioning a tranquil stay hanging by the pool, or looking for a central location for a busy trip, this gem stands out for its family-friendly atmosphere and ideal location amidst the myriad options: Al Gelso Bianco.
Nestled in the heart of Chianti, Al Gelso Bianco offers an idyllic blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, and conveniently located between Florence and Siena, this agriturismo is the perfect base for exploring Tuscany. With amenities designed to cater to families, such as a pool, playground, and child-friendly activities, Al Gelso Bianco ensures a memorable stay for guests of all ages.
In this post, we’ll delve into the features that make Al Gelso Bianco the top choice for families, provide tips for navigating Tuscany with kids, and highlight must-see attractions in the region. From engaging cooking classes to exploring medieval villages, this comprehensive guide will help you plan a stress-free and unforgettable Tuscan adventure.
Family photoshoot with Grandma in Tuscany
Taking a trip to Italy with multiple generations isn't just about ticking off destinations on a map; it's about weaving stronger threads in the fabric of your family story. Picture this: Grandparents, parents, and kids, all sharing in the thrill of discovery, the joy of experiencing new sights, sounds, and in Italy, of course, flavours. It's not just about the places you go, but the moments you share along the way that truly cement those family ties.
The ultimate guide to Truffle Hunting in Italy
Italy is not only renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and mouthwatering cuisine but also for something hidden beneath its soil – truffles. And what better activity to escape the crowds of Rome and Florence than a typical Italian experience that combines nature, food, history and maybe even a cooking class and lunch? That’s what Truffle Hunts throughout Italy offer and in this blog post, you can learn all about them and find the best one for your trip!
Northern Italy 10 Day Itinerary from Venice or Milan with Kids
Planning a trip to Italy, especially for the first time or with your family, can be both exhilarating and daunting. Despite Italy's compact size, comprising just 3% of the land area of the United States, the country is brimming with an abundance of cultural treasures and picturesque landscapes to explore. However, in such a small country, it's all too easy to fall into the trap of trying to cover too much ground in one go, leaving you exhausted and feeling like you've barely scratched the surface of what Italy has to offer.
So how should you spend 10 days in Italy after flying into Venice or Milan?
The Best Family-Friendly Day Trip from Rome
Rome is a fabulous city with kids, and you are going to have a blast while you’re there. But it has to be said, that the buzzing city can be overwhelming. If you’ve booked Rome as a base for your dream Italy vacation and have 4+ days, you might be considering options for day trips or afternoon outings, outside the city- after you visit the Colosseum of course!
The Italian Lakes: A Perfect backdrop for your Multi-Gen Vacation
Planning a family reunion or a multi-generational escape in the captivating Italian Lakes requires careful consideration. The picturesque lakes, adorned with charming towns against the majestic backdrop of the Alps, beckon those with a taste for the finer things in life.
As you contemplate between the iconic Lake Como, family-friendly Lake Garda, culturally rich Lake Maggiore, and the hidden gem, Lake Orta, each offering a unique charm, let's delve into the details to help you curate the perfect Italian getaway that the whole family will enjoy- even your grandson!
A step-by-step guide to your family vacation photoshoot in Italy with Classico Portraits
You’re planning a family travel adventure to Italy and intend to hire a portrait photographer while you’re here on vacation. So, it stands to reason that you’ll want to fully understand what’s involved in a vacation photoshoot in Italy before you book.
In this article, I’m going to reveal the step-by-step process of working with me so that you know exactly what to expect if you choose me as your Italy photographer, whether you’re visiting Tuscany, Venice or elsewhere!
Is Italy still worth visiting in Summer even with the crowds and heat?
As Italy continues to draw record-breaking crowds and with forecasts of 2024 being the hottest year on record, the debate over visiting during the bustling summer months intensifies. Despite the heat and throngs of tourists, Italy's natural allure, rich history, and culinary wonders will always make it worth a trip!
Discover how to make the most of your family trip amid the hustle and bustle with strategic planning and savvy tips.
How Far in Advance Do You Need to Book Experiences and Family Activities in Italy
If you’ve started researching your trip to Italy, you might have already learned the importance of making bookings early, particularly in high season for hotels and tours. Popular activities and experiences, including photographers are no exception.
As a full-service photographer, I often photograph families undertaking a favourite activity during their travels like learning to row in Venice, or truffle hunting in the Italian countryside.
As you can imagine, I’ve learned who to suggest you book these experiences with, (and who to avoid) to ensure a wonderful time. As you’d expect, the best service providers are often the first to book out.
Gifts for Travelers Heading to Italy: Curated Experiences and Treasures
Italy, a country steeped in history, art, and culinary delights, beckons travellers with its magnetic allure. If you're seeking the perfect gift for someone venturing into Italy's enchanting realms, here's a bespoke guide that celebrates the essence of Italian culture and experiences.
Recommended Activities for your Italy Vacation with Family
I recommend activities for your Italy vacation with family as part of my photoshoot planning process because I’m here to tell the story of your vacation. Activities allow me to create you timeless portraits full of natural moments and genuine emotion.
Vacation babysitters in Rome and throughout Italy
Planning a family trip to Italy? You're in for an adventure! Italians truly adore children, and this love extends beyond their own families. When it comes to accommodating families on vacation, Italy's services reflect this adoration for kids.
In bustling cities like Rome, Florence, and Milan, as well as serene countryside locations in Tuscany or along the Amalfi Coast, finding reliable and trustworthy babysitters can be a game-changer for your itinerary. You might wonder about the logistics. How can you find trusted caretakers while travelling?
Seven Things to Consider Before Choosing Your Vacation Family Photographer in Italy
Planning your dream vacation to Italy with your family? A professional photoshoot will capture all the wonderful memories that you will make together.
In this article, I’m sharing seven things you should consider before choosing your vacation photographer.
Italy's best hiking trails (from a photographers eye)
What do you picture when you first think of a vacation in Italy? Exploring the Colosseum? Walking the streets of Florence with Gelato in hand? Eating too much pizza in Naples? Maybe laying under an umbrella on the Amalfi coast?
Italy is all of that, but it’s also an amazing hiking destination. And I’m not just talking about Tuscany’s rolling hills or the spectacular Dolomites. Just 20% of the country is flat terrain. The rest is a hiker’s paradise with rolling hills and spectacular mountains. No matter your experience or fitness level, there truly is a hike for everyone here in Italy!
Family-Friendly Cooking Class and photoshoot in Tuscany
A passion for good food is really the centre of Italian culture and what better way to immerse yourself than a local cooking class? There are plenty of options to choose from in any city you may visit, but what can be hard is finding a class that is suitable for the youngest family members.
I recently photographed this family as they made fresh pasta in the family-friendly Tuscan Agriturismo, Al Gelso Bianco (which I also recommend for accommodation too). As you can see, the entire family got involved thanks to the wonderful teacher.
Why Invest in Family Portrait Photography in Italy while on Vacation?
If you’re planning to experience Italy with your family this year or next, it’s certainly worth considering hiring a professional family photographer, especially one with knowledge of the country and whose style of family portrait photography you love.
Alba Truffle Hunt: Family-Friendly Experience and photoshoot in Piemonte
Among all this gourmet food and wine, you may be wondering what family-friendly activities there are in the Langhe?
Or perhaps you just want to build a break from wineries into your itinerary!
How about foraging for truffles?
I recently joined a young family on their guided truffle hunt just outside Alba and I highly recommend it. It was so lovely to head into the countryside, dig in the dirt and learn all about the truffles!
A unique tour from Barolo: see The Langhe by Tuk Tuk
This cute little “tuk tuk” in Italian is called an “Ape”, pronounced “ahh-pe”, which means bee!
They’re traditionally used by farmers but in recent times they’ve been popping up beautifully converted into a kind of tourist taxi.
This particular one is in Barolo, available for a tour through The Langhe in Piemonte. But you’ll find them throughout Italy! Keep reading to find out where!
CALLING ITALY HOME: Life stationed at Camp Darby, Italy
Colin was stationed at Camp Derby. Amanda put her career on hold to join him, and their dog Bambi- embraced her best beachside self!
Read their story of life in Italy.