Life is a journey

While visiting Emilia-Romagna, we spent two nights in Rimini at the duoMo hotel. I’ve stayed at a lot of interesting and wacky hotels in my life…but nothing tops the duoMo for the sheer coolness factor. Is this not the coolest front desk you have ever seen?!  I felt like a geek taking pictures of it…but seriously! Step off the elevator and you’re greeted by these graffiti-style mirrored room numbers. Each floor has an honesty bar filled with beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic.  Take a drink, write your name down on the clipboard, and you’ll be charged at the end of your stay! Is it charming or naive?  Apparently it works well for them. The front entrance to the room, also known as AdventurousKate.com’s Rimini office…   The bed, desk and flat-screen… Most impressive was the bathroom, complete with an incredibly deep bathtub and what I dubbed a “Jetsons toilet.” I hate to admit this, but I kind of ...

Most people think of the boot-shaped mainland when considering vacation destinations in Italy, but there are more than 80 picturesque islands within Italy’s borders to explore and enjoy as well. From the 17 islands that make up the city of Venice to the beautiful Aeolian Islands off the coast of Sicily, Italy’s islands are as diverse in landscape, culture and climate as the nation’s mainland. Whether in search of Italy’s rich past or on the hunt for a beach with powder-soft sand and clear water, Italian islands have something special to offer every visitor looking for a taste of la dolce vita. The smallest of the three most popular islands in the Bay of Naples, Procida doesn’t have the same number of attractions as Capri and Ishia, but it’s also far less crowded than its larger neighbors. It’s the ideal destination for those seeking a laid-back seaside vacation. Towns like the main port Marina Grande and Chiaiolella have basic accommodations,...