Articles by Santiago Della Pasqua

Greece's coastline stretches for over 13,600 kilometres, encompassing some of the Mediterranean's most spectacular beaches. From the azure waters of the Aegean to the emerald bays of the Ionian, the best beaches in Greece offer an unparalleled blend of natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you're seeking secluded coves, vibrant beach clubs, or family-friendly shores, Greece's diverse archipelago delivers experiences that epitomise Mediterranean luxury. This comprehensive guide reveals the 20 finest beaches across Greece's mainland and islands, each offering its own distinctive character and charm. From the volcanic drama of Santorini to the pristine wilderness of Crete, these coastal gems represent the very pinnacle of Greek seaside splendour.

Nestled in the heart of Puglia's rolling countryside, trulli houses stand as one of Italy's most extraordinary architectural marvels. These distinctive cone-shaped limestone dwellings, with their mystical whitewashed walls and grey stone roofs, have captured the imagination of travellers for centuries. From their humble beginnings as peasant dwellings to their current status as UNESCO World Heritage sites and luxury holiday retreats, trulli houses represent a unique blend of history, craftsmanship, and Mediterranean charm.

Sicily, the jewel of the Mediterranean, is an island where ancient traditions dance with modern celebrations, creating a tapestry of events that captivate visitors throughout the year. From the thunderous devotion of religious processions to the refined elegance of ancient Greek theatre, events in Sicily offer an authentic glimpse into the soul of this remarkable island. Whether you're drawn to the spiritual intensity of Easter celebrations, the gastronomic delights of seasonal food festivals, or the cultural sophistication of world-class performances, Sicily's event calendar promises transformative experiences that will linger in your memory long after your return home.

When visiting Sicily, you'll encounter one of the Mediterranean's most distinctive and historically significant flags. The Sicilian flag, with its striking trinacria symbol and bold red and yellow colours, tells the story of an island that has stood at the crossroads of civilisation for millennia. From ancient Greek coins to modern football stadiums, this remarkable emblem continues to represent Sicily's unique identity, fierce independence, and cultural pride. Understanding the Sicilian flag enriches any visit to this extraordinary island, revealing layers of meaning that connect ancient mythology with modern regional identity. Whether you spot it flying from government buildings in Palermo or adorning local products in bustling markets, the flag serves as a constant reminder of Sicily's complex and fascinating history.

Buon Natale! Christmas in Italy offers an enchanting blend of ancient traditions, sumptuous feasts, and heartwarming family celebrations that differ beautifully from holiday customs elsewhere. From the mystical arrival of La Befana to the legendary Feast of Seven Fishes, Italian Christmas traditions create unforgettable memories steeped in centuries of culture and Catholic heritage.

The second season of HBO's critically acclaimed series The White Lotus transported viewers to some of Italy's most breathtaking locations, with Sicily serving as the magnificent backdrop for this dark comedy-drama. From the dramatic coastlines of Taormina to the baroque splendour of Noto, the White Lotus locations in Italy showcase the island's unparalleled beauty and cultural richness. If you've been captivated by these stunning settings and dream of experiencing them firsthand, this comprehensive guide will take you through every key filming location whilst revealing how you can stay in luxury villas that place you at the heart of this Mediterranean paradise.

Puglia, Italy's sun-drenched heel, offers some of the country's most authentic and extraordinary dining experiences. From Michelin-starred establishments to charming family-run trattorias, the best restaurants in Puglia showcase the region's exceptional agricultural heritage through dishes that celebrate locally-sourced ingredients and time-honoured culinary traditions. This comprehensive guide reveals the finest restaurants across Puglia's most enchanting destinations, ensuring your culinary journey through this remarkable region is nothing short of extraordinary.

"Montalbano sugnu!" So the famous fictional Sicilian detective announces his presence as he calls at the homes of suspects, witnesses and friends. In his perennial quest for whodunit, Inspector Montalbano's manner and his glorious sun-soaked baroque environs couldn't be more different from the dark and damp Danish crime dramas that compete for TV audiences. Adapted from the best-selling books by Sicilian author Andrea Camilleri, the TV series of Inspector Montalbano is set in and around the fictional town of Vigata, which was originally based on the Camilleri's home town of Porto Empedocle a few kilometres west of Agrigento. However, when RAI, Italy's state broadcaster, decided to transform the books into a hugely successful TV series, the great Inspector was seconded to the more picturesque area of Ragusa in southeast Sicily.

Discover the best things to do in Kefalonia, from hidden beaches to charming villages, in our ultimate guide to this stunning Greek island.

Discover the best places to stay in Taormina, Sicily with our guide to exclusive villas, sea views, and cultural highlights.