Ashley Emala

Capri and Ischia are the islands off the coast of Naples that get ALL the attention, but Procida is absolutely worth a visit, especially if you yearn to get away from the throngs of international tourists during the summer months. Used as the setting for The Talented Mr. Ripley and the Italian movie Il Postino, this tiny island is charming and an easy day trip from Naples.

Self-described as the “naughty sister” of the Connaught. This luxury hotel is on the border of the Knightsbridge and Belgravia neighborhoods of London, and has the clout to prove it. Not only is this hotel home to the Blue Bar, a once favorite of Madonna and rumored to be the inspiration for the decor in her own London home, it's also the location of one of London's most popular afternoon tea experiences Prêt-à-portea.

Love champagne tasting but want to go to Italy? This was our dilemma when deciding where to celebrate our 20th anniversary, and Franciacorta was and is the answer. This picturesque area in the Lombardia region of Northern Italy is also the home of a type of Italian sparkling wine by the same name, made using the champenoise method. It is the perfect choice for a romantic getaway and would also be great for a day trip from Milan or the Italian Lake District too.

I’ve lived in big cities where I never did a single touristy thing, but during the years I was an expat in London, I tried to do them all. When we took our two young kids for the first time over a long weekend, I knew exactly what to show them that they would love – nothing boring, only the cool stuff. I can’t promise there won’t be a little whining, but this jam-packed itinerary will keep you moving and keep them entertained.

The historic city of Genoa, often overshadowed by its more famous counterparts, offers a unique blend of medieval charm, coastal allure, and culinary delights. Genoa's narrow cobblestone streets, designed to confuse invaders from the sea, lead visitors from maritime museums, aquariums, and the grand palazzi of aristocratic mariner families to cozy trattorias where local specialties, like pesto, await.

My mom read about a cluster of islands off the east coast of Italy in a Condé Nast Traveler magazine in the early 90’s. After our first visit to Le Isole Tremiti, we returned every summer for many years, foregoing all the other popular Italian seaside destinations. These islands do not offer the glitz and glamour of a 5-Star resort. Instead, they spoil visitors with crystal clear waters, world-class snorkeling and scuba diving, centuries of history, incredible sea views and the warmth and hospitality of the Italian locals.

Ljubljana claimed a spot in my top five European cities almost immediately. This friendly capital city of Slovenia still feels relatively undiscovered. There are the standard museums and churches to visit, but what really sets Ljubljana apart for me are the cobblestone streets to explore, the meandering river to walk along, the picturesque bridges to cross, and the incredible hilltop castle rich with history and dragon legends!