Visit Italy: Beaches in Cagliari

One of our hosts in Italy loves the ocean.  After one visit to Hawai`i, he was transformed, and has since become obsessed with surfing and Hawai`i.  He graciously took us to visit some beaches in Italy.

We went to a few beaches in Cagliari.

The first stop was Cape Carbonara.

It was not crowded at all.  I'm not sure if it was because of the heat (in the 90s), or the time of day, but there were very few people on the beach.  It's rare to see an empty beach mid-day in Hawai`i!

One thing I found very interesting was how there are numerous peddlers on the beach while at Spiaggia Timi Ama, selling everything from clothing to beach toys.  

It was really great to experience beaches in Italy, and the crowds were very minimal compared to what we see in Hawai`i.  

But in my humble opinion, nothing can compare to the beaches we have in Hawai`i!
 

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Visit Florence: Caffe Tubino

On the way back to Rome, we stopped at a Caffe Tubino / Bar Paninoteca for some coffee, a bite to eat, and a restroom break.

They offered a number of hot sandwiches, pastries, and even porchetta!

They also offered honey and other locally-made goods.

I decided to get some convenience store ice cream!

Caffe Tubinos can be found all through Italy.  Stop in to see what you'll find!

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Visit Italy: Caffe Gilli

Caffe Gilli is a busy eatery in the equally busy Florence area, bustling with tourists who want a satisfying meal, a quick bite, or a decadent treat.

We stopped in for some refreshing drinks on a warm day, and I couldn't resist buying some omiyage.

I bought all sorts of fruity and chocolaty candies to bring back home.

I really wished I had the time (or the appetite - I was already too full from eating earlier) to indulge in one of the amazing confections, but Caffe Gilli was still a pleasant stop to relax and people watch.

Cafe Gilli
Via Roma, 1r, 

50123 Firenze FI, Italy

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Visit Italy: The Sights of Florence

Our hosts took us to Florence for the day to tour the city.

It was even more magical than I ever could have imagined.

It was just incredible to roam the city and be enveloped in such amazing history, architecture, culture, and art.   

We walked the Ponte Vecchio (medieval stone bridge), viewed the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, saw the golden doors of the Gates of Paradise, and so much more.  

Ponte Vecchio

Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

Gates of Paradise

At every turn there seemed to be significant sculptures and intricate works of art.

It was quite crowded, as international travel had just recently opened up when we visited, and lines were long for several paid attractions.  We didn't go into any paid attractions, but just roaming the city and perusing the various buildings and other free venues was a fabulous experience.  

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Visit Italy: Podere Forte

While in Italy, we went to a wine tasting at Podere Forte, founded in 1997 by Pasquale Forte, who strives for a symbiotic, sustainable environment for the people, plants, and animals to thrive on his estate (in addition to producing wine, the estate also raises farm animals).  

Pasquale and his team took us on a quick tour of the vineyards, which concluded in a wine-tasting of their signature wines - Petrucci Melo, Petrucci Anfiteatro and Guardiavigna.

We then proceeded to the winery, which encompasses five floors, where we tasted select wines from the barrel. 

The day ended with Pasquale showing us a very special mural that was done for him, featuring himself and his loved ones.

The integration of science with nature at Podere Forte helps to ensure quality wines.

For more information on Podere Forte experiences, click here. 

Podere Forte
13 Localita' Pod. Petrucci

Castiglione D'orcia, Si 53023, Italy

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Visit Italy: Il Cioccolotto e Il Gelato

While in Italy, my only goal was to have gelato, and I got my fill at Il Cioccolotto e Il Gelato in the Mercato Centrale Firenze.

They have all sorts of treats - ice cream on a stick, cannolis, ice cream sandwiches, crepes, and more.

I got the Gianduia flavor, which is Chocolate and Hazelnut.

It was just perfect - creamy, rich, and so yummy!

Il Cioccolotto e Il Gelato is a perfect stop to satisfy your sweet tooth while shopping the market. 

Il Cioccolotto e Il Gelato 

Mercato Centrale Firenze

50123 Firenze FI, Italy

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