The cliffside hike from Monterosso al Mare, the most northern seaside village of Italy’s renowned Cinque Terre, to neighboring Vernazza is extraordinarily scenic, but it’s also arduous—the two colorful, ancient towns are connected by an endless series of steep stairways that overlook the rugged coast. “I can’t endure another step,” I breathlessly told my thirty year old daughter after a few minutes of strenuous climbing. She suggested I turn around and take the train back to our rented apartment in Riomaggiore, the southernmost village, while she continued on. 

Emeka Ukaga is a junior dual-degree student pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and a Bachelor of Arts in Architectural Studies at the University of Pittsburgh. He grew up in Woodbury, Minnesota, but also has close ties with Nigeria because his parents are from there; Emeka’s a dual-citizen. He has a strong passion for global studies, and because of that is also pursuing a minor in French and certificates in International Engineering, Western European Studies, African Studies, and Global Studies.

Some holidays are meant for sightseeing, some are for rekindling the romance in your life, and yet some more are aimed at reconnecting with oneself. But, the best kinds of holidays are those that satisfy your creative as well as your culinary needs! If you are fed up with the takeaways and the buffets, then these 3 great gastronomical holiday destinations are where you should be heading!
 
Italy

Ah, Italy. I have to tell you, I've become even more enamored (is this possible?) with Italy since our Living in Italy Editor, Ashley Bartner, came on board and started sharing her stories and photos of Italy. From festivals to local events - and, of course, food - Ashley shares her love of Italy, local food, and transforms us with it.