The flower market in Kolkata From the chaotic charm of Mumbai, the colonial grandeur of Kolkata to the hill station of Darjeeling and Gangtok in the Himalaya, FBI Travel Advisor Michelle Adler recounts her wonderful journey across this fascinating country. Read on for Michelle's recommendations for the top things to see and do. Top things to see and do: Mumbai My journey started in Mumbai and after a restful night, I took a 5:30am Wake Up Mumbai tour . It was fascinating to see the city wake up. We went to an area to watch the newspaper delivery workers collate all the different newspapers and load them onto their bikes to deliver, a large fruit and vegetable market, the Dadar flower market and the fish market. The fish market is right at the port so we were able to watch the fishermen come in and sell their fish directly off their boats to the buyers. I also enjoyed a Dharavi Slum tour with a young man who lives in the slums. The Dharavi is one of the largest slums in Asia and is where Slumdog Millionaire  was filmed. It was really interesting to see the hard-working people who live here and their recycling efforts. Over 20 million people live in Mumbai which produces 6,500 tonnes of garbage every day. 85% of this is recycled and the people of Dharavi use a lot of the recycled goods to manufacture lots of different things like pottery, garments, leather goods and more, often created in very tiny spaces! I then visited Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus), which is an UNESCO World Heritage Site. The architecture is just amazing – a combination of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture, blended with traditional Indian architecture. I went to the end of the platform and waited for a train to stop to watch the hundreds of people get off the train. It was amazing! The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai I stayed at the Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai , an iconic historic majestic hotel built in 1903. It was just gorgeous. Roughly an hour from the international airport, it is one of the original grand hotels of the world and has hosted celebrities and royalty from all over the world. The hotel has two building – the historic Taj Mahal Palace wing (285 rooms and suites) and the Taj Mahal Tower which opened in 1973 (258 rooms and suite). I highly recommend booking into the historic Palace wing rather than the Tower. The Palace rooms have been completely restored and you can overlook the city, pool or the Gateway of India and the Arabian Sea. I enjoyed an entertaining and educational Heritage Walk through the hotel, hosted by the Palace Historians who had plenty of stories to tell! The walk is offered daily and needs to be booked through reception. The hotel also offers 9 wonderful restaurants each offering something different, a bar, a J Wellness Circle, Taj Salon, an art gallery, sailing and a Royal E-Victoria Ride which is an electric carriage modelled on the horse-driven Victoria’s. These are a great way to explore the neighbourhood!   Top things to see and do: Kolkata Marigolds at the flower market From Mumbai, we headed to Kolkata. It’s a fabulous bustling city with amazing colonial architecture. I enjoyed visiting the busy Mullick Ghat flower market which was stunningly colourful and full of action – perfect for photographers! I also visited the Queen Victoria Memorial , which is one of the most visited museums in India. It has nearly 30,000 artefacts from the three centuries beginning in the mid-1600s including paintings, photographs, books, stamps, coins, medals, armour, sculptures, costumes and personal relics. I was fortunate to visit four beautifully restored synagogues, which were centrally location in the town. We stayed at the lovely Taj Bengal Kolkata which is in the Alipore neighbourhood and close to many tourist attractions. The hotel has a great selection of restaurants and bars including Middle Eastern, Chinese and a poolside grill (seasonal). We had dinner at Sonargaon within the hotel which was traditional Punjab and West Bengal cuisine and was absolutely amazing. Top things to see and do: Gangtok We then flew to Gangtok which is a mountainous city in the northeastern state of Sikkim in the Himalayas. It was very picturesque, serene and with gorgeous views. The drive from the airport was unfortunately a very long 7 hours but a new airport will be opening closer to the hotel soon. We visited the Rumtek monastery (Dharma Chakra Center), the seat of the Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The original monastery was built in 1734 but had fallen into ruin by 1956. After a few years of construction, a new monastery, designed in traditional Tibetan style and a replica of Tsurpu in Tibet, was completed. The 16th Karmapa took up residence there in 1966 and died in 1981. The original monastery which is only a short distance away from the new one was rebuilt recently. Taj Guras Kutir Resort & Spa We stayed at the Taj Guras Kutir Resort & Spa, which is inspired by the rhododendrons (or guras) that grow here. It's a stunning mountain retreat overlooking the breathtaking mountains of the Himalaya. The resort has 69 rooms and suites with three dining venues serving local favourites and Pan-Asian fare. The J Wellness Circle offers a range of spa, signature treatments, yoga and meditation all inspired by Ayuveda. From here, you can enjoy nature walks and visits to monasteries and temples. Top things to see and do: Darjeeling Michelle tries her hand at picking tea From Gangtok, we headed to Darjeeling. The town is great to wander around with lots of cafes and shops. We enjoyed a hike through the tea plantations and enjoyed a cup of local chai (tea) in a Himalayan Village. We also took a ride aboard the UNESCO World Heritage Site Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) . It was built in the late 19th century and uses innovative engineering such as zig zags and loops to gain altitude. The ‘Toy Train’ climbs to Ghum which is India’s highest railway station at 7,218 feet. The views along the journey are lovely. We stayed at the Taj Chia Kutir Resort & Spa which is within the historic Makaibari Tea Estate. It has 73 rooms - all have breathtaking mountain views and most have hill station-style balconies. The Resort restaurants use seasonal produce from the small farms nearby as well as offering fine dining with classics from the Raj and the Zamindari. There’s also an all glass bar where you can enjoy rare single malts and boutique rums along with the view. Practical Information: How to get there: If you are flying from Melbourne, you can fly direct to Delhi with Air India and then onto smaller destinations within India. The flight arrives in the early morning which means that in many cases, you will be able to connect through to your final destination on the same day. To come home, the flight leaves Delhi around 1am so you have all of the previous day to get yourself to Delhi. Singapore Airlines is another option. They fly to 8 cities within India via Singapore or you can transfer in Singapore onto one of their Scoot flights to an additional 5 destinations. Michelle flew with SriLankan Airlines to Colombo and then onto Mumbai and found the service and food very good. SriLanka Airlines currently fly to 14 destinations in India. Hot tip:   As you would expect, traffic in India’s major cities is chaotic and congested. Security procedures at the airports are thorough which means they can be extremely slow. There are separate security lines for men and women which also adds time. It’s therefore essential to allow plenty of time for the journey to the airport, departure formalities and navigating the airport to your departure gate. All airline information is correct as of 8 April 2025. Please ask your FBI Travel Advisor for current flight information. Best time to travel: India is a huge country and the climate can change depending on where you are travelling. Generally speaking, the best time to visit is December to early March, which is in the winter. It starts to get very hot from April and many regions experience monsoons from June to September. Kolkata is best visited from mid-December to February and Mumbai's best time is January and February. If you are heading to the Indian Himalaya, the best time to visit is from November to February. Avoid the summer months from June to August due to heavy rain. Visas You must apply for a visa before arriving in India, visas cannot be obtained on arrival. You might be eligible for an e-visa. Please visit the Smartraveller website for the latest information. If a trip to India is on your travel wish list, contact Michelle Adler, your preferred FBI Travel Advisor or check out our upcoming 14-day hosted tour. Michelle travelled courtesy of Taj Hotels and Secrets of India.

Forio, Ischia Island, Italy Tourists have long flocked from chaotic Neapolitan streets to the breezy reprieve of star-studded Capri. But savvy travellers are now discovering that the island of Ischia – just an hour’s ferry from Napoli – offers a similar slice of la dolce vita  with fewer crowds and at a fraction of the cost. The popularity of Capri has, so far, allowed Ischia to operate under the radar; that said, the island possesses all the characteristics of a Mediterranean hotspot. Beachside bars? Check. Thermal pools? Check. Mountain hikes, gooey gnocchi alla Sorrentina and boutique shopping under bougainvillea blooms? Check, check and check. Make no mistake: tourism is alive and well here, especially during the summer. However, walk the streets of Sant’Angelo, Forio or any of the charming towns dotting Ischia’s coastline and the language you’ll most likely hear is Italian. The island remains a low-key destination, with the majority of tourists being domestic. And unlike so many Mediterranean islands, the locals still live in Ischia, lending it an authenticity that’s been lost elsewhere. Capri remains a stone’s throw away, should you wish to experience both. But once you’re in Ischia, we doubt you’ll be in a hurry to leave. What to do in Ischia Explore Castello Aragonese Castello Aragonese Perched on a rocky island connected to Ischia by causeway, Castello Aragonese has a history dating back to the 5th century BC. It has changed hands many times over the past 2500 years and is now Ischia’s most-visited attraction, boasting hard-to-beat views of the Mediterranean Sea. The castle plays host to Ischia Film Festival every summer, but remains open throughout the year – spend a few hours soaking up the castle’s history and grounds before retiring to the monastery café for a well-earned spritz overlooking the water. Hike Mount Epomeo Mount Epomeo (788m) is Ischia’s highest point. The hike to the summit can be tackled from a number of spots on the island, and though the short walk can be challenging, the views are worth it. Ristorante La Grotta da Fiore is a welcome oasis atop the peak, offering homemade wine, craft beers and friendly Italian hospitality in spades. Soak in a thermal pool Ischia is perhaps most famous for its natural thermal pools. You can opt to stay at a hotel with private thermal baths, but there are several thermal complexes open to the public. The largest of these is Poseidon Thermal Gardens , which has 20 thermal pools ranging from 28–40 degrees plus a number of seawater pools, steam rooms and saunas. The complex is sandwiched between the cliffs and the coast, meaning you can also pull up a sun lounger by the private beach area and swim in the sea. Hire a boat There are few better ways to spend a day than by hopping around Ischia’s stunning coastline. Whether you’re looking to discover a private beach, explore hidden caves or simply enjoy a swim alongside a glass of wine, there are several companies offering island tours to suit all budgets. Where to eat in Ischia Ristorante La Grotta da Fiore With a dining room carved into the mountain itself, La Grotta da Fiore  can be found at the summit of Monte Epomeo and is popular with both locals and tourists. Opt for mouth-watering bruschetta and a glass of homemade wine – you won’t regret either. Ristorante Montecorvo Located in Forio, on the western side of Ischia, Ristorante Montecorvo  serves up traditional Ischian fare in a lush garden setting. Expect an atmospheric dining experience, with top-tier food served at a casual pace. Bar Marco Conveniently positioned at the northern end of the popular Spiaggia dei Pescatori beach, Bar Marco  is a casual spot serving up bruschetta and arancini to go with your Peroni or Aperol spritz. It makes for a great aperitivo or light lunch and is within walking distance of Ischia town. Dani Maison After an unforgettable culinary experience? Dani Maison operates out of chef Nino Di Costanzo’s own home in the Ischia hills and boasts two Michelin stars. Dinner here is more than a meal; it's a gastronomic journey curated by a master. Expect modern (and highly elaborate) takes on traditional Ischian foods with an impressive wine list bettered only by the service. Where to stay in Ischia The Bellevue Suite terrace - Mezzatorre Hotel & Spa Resort Mezzatorre Hotel & Spa Resort Ischia’s Mezzatorre Hotel & Spa Resort is an FBI Travel staff favourite. This five-star resort overlooks the ocean and has a private beach and thermal pool, while the building itself is an unfinished watchtower. There are 48 rooms and suites located in either the old watchtower or in cottages dotted around a seven hectare park. You won’t want to leave this stylish resort – and with on-site restaurants and a bar, there really is no reason to. San Montano Resort & Spa The secluded 73-room San Montano Resort & Spa  has a signature restaurant serving Mediterranean staples with a modern twist and a postcard perfect location on the Neapolitan coast. There's a saltwater pool and a free hotel shuttle bus to take you to the Bay of San Montano beach. The spa has a natural grotto sauna and a wonderful selection of treatments inspired by the surrounding volcanic landscape. Vittoria Colonna Luxury B&B Set in a historic building in the heart of Ischia town, Vittoria Colonna  is a tasteful lodging offering well-appointed rooms and a delicious breakfast just minutes from both the water and Ischia’s main shopping and dining district. The staff are friendly, attentive and more than happy to help you plan out your stay on the island. A wonderful place to wash off the salt at the end of the day. How to get to (and around) Ischia Getting to Ischia The easiest way to get to Ischia is by flying to Napoli then hopping on a boat at the main port. The ferry to Ischia will take approximately an hour, while the hydrofoil is slightly faster (approximately 45 minutes). Getting around Ischia There are a number of places to hire a car or scooter when you arrive in Ischia, though you’ll need an Italian translation of your driver’s license (or an international driving permit) to drive in Italy. There’s also a public bus system that’s easy to use, though it can be unreliable at times. As the locals say, “It’ll come when it comes.” Keep in mind that the buses fill up quickly during the busier months – especially at the end of the day – and you may have to wait another half an hour or more for the next. Leave plenty of time if you need to travel across the island and have dinner reservations. When to visit Ischia The best times to visit Ischia are during the shoulder seasons of May, early June, September and October. These months offer a perfect balance of warm weather, fewer crowds and lower rates compared to the busy summer peak. In spring, the island bursts into bloom, with fragrant gardens and mild temperatures ideal for hiking Mount Epomeo or exploring Castello Aragonese. While the summer months showcase Ischia at its liveliest, the island can be crowded with Italian visitors, which does impact accommodation availability. Winter brings a quiet charm, with many thermal spas remaining open, though some tourist facilities may close. Next steps Intrigued by Ischia? It’s hard not to be, given the island was used as a filming location in the 1963 film Cleopatra  (starring Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton) and frequently appeared in Elena Ferrante’s Neapolitan Novels  series   featuring ‘My Brilliant Friend’. The island is the stuff of literary and cinematic dreams, so discover Ischia’s charm for yourself by getting in touch with FBI Travel’s team of experts . They’ll happily help you plan your perfect Italian holiday. Thanks to FBI Travel Advisor Leanne Sheard and to Mezzatorre Hotel & Spa Resort for providing images.

Punakha Dzong Professional Travel Advisor Michelle Adler recently spent a week in the tiny Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan. Most famous for the monastery of Paro Taktsang or Tiger's Nest, Bhutan is a wonderful country for nature lovers, walkers and trekkers and for those seeking a spiritual experience. Read on for Michelle's experience, top tips and hotel recommendations. Thimphu Thimphu Drubchen Festival Descending into Paro Airport felt like I was about to touch the mountains. As we approached, the pilot reassured us with a warm announcement: “It’s OK to be close to the mountains – just enjoy the scenery”. And what a magnificent sight it was! The deep valleys dotted with villages and soaring peaks left me in awe. After arriving at Paro Airport, we took a 1.5 hour drive to the capital, Thimphu, which is also the only capital city without any traffic lights. Thimphu is surrounded by forested mountains, temples, monasteries and prayer flags and is approx. 2,700m above sea level. We attended the colourful Thimphu Drubchen Festival, which showcases the sacred masked dances dedicated to the protecting deity of Bhutan, Palden Lhamo. The dances are believed to possess the power to ward off evil spirits and invoke blessings. An unexpected highlight was dining at the same restaurant where the King of Bhutan was enjoying his dinner! We stayed at the Six Senses Thimphu – getting here was an adventure in itself! It was a challenging 45-minute drive along a rugged, unpaved road. On arrival, a beautifully crafted wooden door greeted us. When it opened, I was immediately struck by the breathtaking sight of the majestic mountains reflected in tranquil ponds. This spectacular entrance really set the tone for our stay in this serene escape. Michelle at Six Senses Thimphu The hotel has 25 villas, each with a beautiful large open space, bright airy rooms and a lovely balcony. The hotel restaurant Namkha has views of the Himalayan peaks, serves both traditional Bhutanese dishes and international specialties with the chefs using fresh vegetables from their organic garden. The wellness and spa area include an indoor pool, prayer and meditation pavilion and wellness experiences that ‘focus on bringing the body into balance, boosting the immune system and helping to open the mind and expand consciousness to aid spiritual healing’. There are also archery practice fields! Top tip: I recommend staying in Thimphu for 3 nights. Paro Michelle at Paro Taktsang (Tiger's Nest) We drove back to Paro and participated in an evening ceremony where 108 butter lamps were lit to eradicate darkness and ignorance. The next morning, we undertook a hike up to Paro Taktsang or Tiger’s Nest trek, a challenging but unforgettable adventure. We drove 20 minutes from central Paro to the main car park. Tigers Nest can only be accessed by hiking, with the round trip taking 4 to 7 hours with an additional hour to explore the monastery itself. There is an option to take a horse up to the café which is located roughly halfway to the main lookout. Despite not riding a horse for years, I took this option! Once you reach the café, it’s a challenging 1.5 – 2 hour walk to the main viewpoint. This is at altitude and on an uneven path so I don’t recommend tackling it in the rain. The views are incredible! My top tips for this trek: I suggest to start early in the morning, bring hiking poles (which your hotel might provide), wear supportive hiking shoes or boots and dress in layers to adapt to the changing temperatures. We stayed at Amankora, Arriving to the hotel is quite different – we were dropped off to take a 5 minute walk through a thick pine forest, fully immersing ourselves in nature before reaching the hotel entrance. The hotel has 24 suites that beautifully blend rustic charm with contemporary design. There are LOTS of stairs. The main common area offers stunning views of snow-capped mountains. A key highlight of staying here was making my own prayer flags with a monk and receiving blessings for my onward journey. YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: BUCKET LIST HIKES FOR EVERY EXPERIENCE LEVEL Punakha 108 Chorten Temple Punakha is a four-hour drive from Thimphu and takes the Dochula Mountain Pass. What a majestic journey this was! We were treated to dramatic views of the incredible Himalayan ranges and went past the striking 108 Chorten Temple. Punakha is a picturesque town, known for its stunning landscapes, rich history and cultural significance. It also served as Bhutan’s capital until 1955 and remains an important administrative and religious centre. The climate is quite mild which means it would be a pleasant destination year-round but I recommend coming here in spring or autumn. The key highlights of Punakha include: Punakha Dzong: This majestic fortress is situated at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. It's renowned for its stunning architecture and vibrant colours, often considered one of the most beautiful dzongs in Bhutan. Cultural Heritage: Punakha is home to several important temples and monasteries, including Chimi Lhakhang, dedicated to the Divine Madman, and Kinhung Lhakhang, showcasing Bhutanese spirituality and art. Natural Beauty: Surrounded by lush valleys, rice fields, and towering mountains, Punakha offers breathtaking views and opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and rafting. Michelle at the Six Senses Punakha We stayed at the Six Senses Punakha, which is set amidst vibrant rice fields. It felt quite tropical despite my weather app forecasting snow! The accommodation is just lovely, combining rustic charm with modern comforts. There’s an outdoor pool with great views of the surrounding landscape, making it an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Punakha. Paro We drove back to Paro and stayed at the Six Senses Paro which is perched within 12th-century stone ruins, surrounded by a thick forest and offers breathtaking views. The suites are bright and airy, featuring large windows and natural timber that seamlessly connect the indoors with the stunning outdoor landscape. Dining here was a real highlight. There is an emphasis on amazing organic cuisine with plenty of vegetarian options available. YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: MY ANTARCTICA ADVENTURE Summary: Bhutan is truly a gem, renowned for its dramatic landscapes and serene way of life. The pace is refreshingly tranquil and offers a sense of peace that’s hard to find elsewhere. The people of Bhutan are known as some of the happiest in the world and their traditions and lifestyle are remarkable. It’s one of the cleanest and most organised countries I’ve ever visited. Rich in culture and tradition with its archery competitions, prayer flags adorning the hills and ancient temples and stupas, it feels like a place frozen in time. Practical information: Planning a trip to Bhutan: Bhutan can only be visited with a tour operator. It’s not a country you can visit independently. All tourists over the age of 12 entering Bhutan are required to pay a daily Sustainable Development Fee which is in addition to your accommodation. The fee is for maintaining the country’s cultural and environmental integrity. A visa is required and the tour operator will organise this for you. . Your FBI Travel Advisor can recommend the best tour operator and itinerary for you How to get there: Only two airlines fly into Bhutan – Drukair and Bhutan Airlines. We recommend flying to Bangkok, Singapore, Kolkata or Delhi to connect with a flight to Bhutan. Dress code: Casual dress is acceptable. If visiting temples, monasteries or festivals, wear clothing that covers your knees and arms. Shoes need to be removed before entering temples and monasteries. Layering is recommended due to the changes in temperature. Altitude & health: Speak to your GP about how to handle the altitude and for any required travel vaccinations. Best time to travel: Bhutan is a year-round destination. Peak season and the best times to visit are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These are popular festival seasons in Bhutan and also ideal for trekking and sightseeing. If you are going to Bhutan to trek, we recommend avoiding the summer/monsoon season (June to August) as some routes can be closed due to dangerous and slippery trails. Michelle travelled courtesy of Secrets of India, Taj Hotels, Six Senses and Aman.

Trastevere, Rome Home to cobblestone streets, ivy-draped buildings and intimate piazzas – the kind of place where locals still hang their laundry out the windows over kids playing football – the Trastevere neighbourhood feels like a snapshot of Rome before the touring crowds descended on the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain and Pantheon.   Maria Pasquale Located in the city’s southwest on an elbow of the Tiber River, Trastevere ticks all the boxes for a perfect stay in Rome: walkable laneways nearly devoid of cars, plenty of dining options, and easy access to the rest of the city. The neighbourhood is a short taxi away from major Roman attractions, including the Vatican City, with trams and buses readily available along Viale di Trastevere.   But perhaps the best thing about Trastevere is it’s lived-in, bohemian quality – a peek into an authentic slice of Roman living that stands apart from Central Rome or more upscale neighbourhoods like Prati.   That’s the reason why Maria Pasquale, an award winning Italian Australian food journalist and author of The Eternal City: Recipes and Stories from Rome , chose to settle here after moving to Italy to follow her roots.   “Trastevere feels gritty and beautiful at the same time,” says Maria. “The neighbourhood retains a strong sense of local identity, blending its medieval roots with a vibrant modern nightlife, attracting students, artists and travellers alike.”   “The locals here have heart and are proud Trasteverini. So proud in fact that they host an annual festival in July called   La Festa de’ Noantri   (Roman dialect for the festival of ‘us others’), which means keeping separate from the other Romans!”   Rome’s Jewish Ghetto   Trastevere is also where visitors will find the historic Jewish Ghetto, one of the world’s oldest ghettos, built in 1555 to segregate Jews from the rest of the city. Despite being destroyed and rebuilt, especially following the Jewish Holocaust of World War 2, the area is still home to kosher restaurants, pastry shops, synagogues and boutiques.   Walking food and history tours are especially popular in the Jewish Ghetto, and our team at FBI Travel can organise a private group tour if you’re interested. While exploring the narrow streets, look out for the gold cobblestones underfoot that serve as poignant reminders of the Jewish families who disappeared during the Holocaust.   The Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere Elsewhere around Trastevere   Maria recommends visiting Orto Botanico, the neighbourhood’s lush botanical gardens that serve as a tranquil escape from the bustling piazzas. Nestled on the slopes of the Janiculum Hill, it’s an ideal place to take a picnic sourced from Trastevere’s pizzerias and pastry shops, and wander among exotic plants, fountains and hidden paths.   Overlooking one of Trastevere’s most lively piazzas is Santa Maria in Trastevere, a minor Basilica that is often overlooked but shouldn’t be.   “[Santa Maria’s] spectacular glittering mosaics, dating back to the 12th century, are breathtaking,” says Maria. “It’s one of the oldest churches in Rome, embodying the neighbourhood’s deep connection to history and spirituality.”   Maria’s favourite places to eat   In Central Rome, restaurants and trattorias near major tourist attractions tend to hike their prices while offering questionable quality meals, but in Trastevere you’ll find authentic Roman dining at good prices.   Having scoured the city to research three books about Roman cuisine, these are Maria’s top places to eat in Trastevere:   Osteria der Belli: Tucked around the corner from   Santa Maria Church is this family-run restaurant that spills out into the small piazza where street performers entertain diners. “Leo and the team here serve up local fare and Sardinian specialities too,” says Maria.   Eggs Roma: Red checkered tables have disappeared, replaced with cool blues and warm panel flooring at this light and bright café along Via Natale del Grande. Eggs offers a more modern take on the Roman trattoria, with a menu that flirts with local and seasonal ingredients.   I Supplì: Technically more of a street snack, Roman supplì (fried rice balls) are iconic and an essential eat for any visitor. Established in 1979, I Suppli has a tried and true roster of local favourites but also branches out with interesting creations depending on what is in season. It’s “a taste of Rome’s culinary heritage in handheld form,” says Maria.   La Norceria di Iacozzilli: Along Via Natale del Grande is this deli, one of the longest serving in the area, and the place where you’ll find locals chatting away with the owner while measuring out large wedges of parmesan.   Pasticceria Valzani : This historic pastry shop has been a fixture in Trastevere since 1925. Known for its rich torrone  (nougat) and chocolate creations, it’s a delightful spot to indulge in a sweet treat with a nod to tradition.   Make It Happen   Our Professional Travel Advisors can help you book a dream holiday to Rome and beyond, including a stay near the Trastevere neighbourhood. We recommend:   Fly: Qantas, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Emirates and Etihad all offer flights to Rome. Get in touch  with our team to enquire about airfares.   Villa Agrippina Gran Melia Stay: Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá , located in the heart of the Eternal City, is just 10 minutes by car or a 20 minute walk from Trastevere. It's also only a five-minute walk from St. Peter's Square and Basilica. This charming five-star hotel is surrounded by Mediterranean gardens, has a wonderful 1920s style pool, stunning views of Rome and a relaxing atmosphere.   Do: Putting a twist on a well-loved classic, the Colosseum Underground Tour explore the tunnels and chambers where gladiators and wild animals were kept before battles. If you're short on time, you can also explore the Trastevere area with an expert local guide and deluxe private vehicle on Abercrombie and Kent's half day tour of Trastevere or take an Authentic Roman Food Walking Tour of Trastevere with Project Expedition.   Want to explore Rome’s storied streets? Get in touch with one of our Professional Travel Advisors and we’ll arrange your flights, hotel, activities and more with a tailored itinerary. NOTE: In 2025, the Catholic Church will be celebrating the Great Jubilee or ‘Holy Year’. Large events are scheduled throughout the year and hotels in large cities, with hotels selling out in advance. If you’re planning to visit Rome in 2025, get in touch with our team today to avoid missing out.

Image courtesy of München Tourismus, Joerg Lutz Our Fares and Ticketing Operations Manager, Sam, recently travelled to Munich courtesy of Lufthansa and Jewels of Romantic Europe. With a very impressive, award-winning airport, Munich is traditionally seen as a transit zone to other destinations within Europe. However, there is far more to Munich and nearby Salzburg and it’s well worth breaking your journey for a few days in this vibrant area. Find out what Sam discovered: Immersive Walking Tours: Sampling the cheese. Image: Sam Skinner We started our exploration of Munich with two walking tours with a local guide. Our guide was incredibly informative with many interesting stories which made the experience all the more enjoyable. The first tour was a tasting tour in the Viktualienmarkt, which is in the Old Town and close to our hotel. The Viktualienmarkt has been around since 1807 and is currently most well-known for its delicious delicacies both from the local area but also wider Europe. We had a great time tasting everything from French cheese to bratwurst with mustards, fresh juice and wine. After we finished in the Viktualienmarkt, we commenced a Local Love tour through the arts district. While the tour doesn’t include any theatres or galleries, we got a real sense of Munich’s ‘live and let live’ philosophy and the vibrant music and arts scene. The Old Town is a low-rise city so it maintains a real ‘old’ feel. Our second tour concluded at a traditional Bavarian beer hall which was a real highlight. The food was fantastic – I enjoyed an ox steak with mustard and potatoes and of course, local beer! German beer is stored in wooden kegs and is really simple and delicious – they only use spring water, hops and yeast with no preservatives or sugar. The Beer Hall is filled with lots of traditional German symbols, the staff wear traditional dress, musicians play folk music and there’s even yodeling! It was a great way to finish our day exploring – although I don’t recommend doing two back-to-back walking tours, particularly after a long flight! Seehaus at Englischen Garten: Surfing in the gardens! Image: München Tourismus, Werner Boehm After a quick stop back at the hotel, we headed off for dinner at the Seehaus, set on the edge of a picturesque lake in the Englischen Garten. The restaurant and setting were just spectacular – it was silver service, there were musicians and a grand piano and while the food wasn’t traditionally German, it was delicious. They also have a beer garden, which would be a fantastic place to watch the world go by over a delicious beverage or two! The Englischen Garten is one of the largest inner-city parks in the world. There is plenty to do here – from walking, jogging or cycling the 78kms of paths, taking a pedal boat out on the lake or try surfing at the Eisbach wave! You can also visit the Japanese Tea House and take in the unique views at the Greek style Monopteros ornamental temple. If you’re there in December, you can also pick up some lovely gifts at the Christkindlmarkt – and also ice skate on the lake or go cross-country skiing!    Berchtesgaden Salt Mine: The next day, we set off for Salzburg, which is roughly 1.5 hours drive away from Munich. On the way, we stopped at the Berchtesgaden Salt Mine which has been in operation since 1517. I’m happily surprised to say that this was the highlight of my trip – I thought it would be a quite dry tour but it was extremely interesting. Our guide was again, fantastic. The mine is still operational but the tour takes place in the older areas that are not being mined. Boating across the salt lake. Image: Salzbergwerk Berchtesgaden, Südwestdeutsche Salzwerke AG We took a train into the mine with the guide explaining the history of the area including about the royal family of Austria. There was a nod to German engineering – our guide explained that the mine previously used brass pumps that were in operation for 110 years without breaking and only changed over to electric ones because they were cheaper to run! Once we arrived in the mining area, we discovered that the miners used to slide down wooden slides to get to the next level down. Naturally, we had to give that a go – it was very steep and fast! But there are stairs if you prefer. The boat ride across the mine’s lake came with a light show which was a great experience. The mines are well-lit and quite cavernous so I didn’t feel claustrophobic at all. It is a lot of walking though and while there is a lift, it’s only to take you back up to the top, you can’t go down into the mines via a lift. And of course, there’s a gift shop on the way out! Mozart Dinner Concert - Salzburg: Enjoying the opera. Image: Sam Skinner We were taken to a pretty unique experience for dinner – going back to Mozart’s time! The themed dinner is held in the Baroque Hall of the Benedictine monastery St Peter, complete with candlelight. Here we experienced a 3-part concert which is held in between each course. Each part is dedicated to a Mozart opera including The Magic Flute , Don Giovanni , The Marriage of Figaro  and A Little Night Music . The performers – and all the staff – are dressed in authentic costumes of the era. It’s the oldest restaurant in Europe, with its first mention dating back to 803. Dinner is inspired by historical recipes from Mozart’s time. While there wasn’t any actual capon, we enjoyed soup, chicken and vegetables and for dessert, a Salzburger Nockerl which was like a cross between a souffle and a meringue with berries. The event is pretty formal – I wore a suit. I enjoyed the evening and I’d say it’s a must do for Mozart fans or for those that love the history of the Mozart era. If you are just after a nice dinner in Salzburg though, I would choose somewhere else. The Footsteps of Sound of Music bicycle tour: A view of Salzburg. Image: Sam Skinner Of course, a visit to Salzburg would be incomplete without some reference to The Sound of Music ! We joined a bicycle tour, hosted by some young music students. There were two options – a Sound of Music  tour or one about the history of Salzburg. I chose the historical tour. Salzburg is a very hilly town so you need to be reasonably fit to take part in the bicycle tour. The tour heads up to the Monastery and we all had to get off our bikes and walk them up as it was very steep. There are times when we rode through traffic and it’s on cobblestones so you need to be quite confident on a bike. We then enjoyed a beer in the garden where The Sound of Music  children sang and danced to Do Re Mi . Herreninsel Island: After lunch, we took a ferry to Herreninsel Island to see the Royal Palace of Herrinchiemsee. The palace was commissioned by Ludwig II of Bavaria and created as a homage to Versailles, which Ludwig greatly admired. The palace was a costly project, he actually went broke building it and unfortunately, he died before the palace could be completed. Approaching the Royal Palace of Herrinchiemsee. Image: Sam Skinner The palace is spectacular and while you can explore on your own, I’d recommend taking a guided tour – the guides are very informative and have many interesting stories. Further, you can only visit the state rooms as part of a guided tour. Even unfinished, the palace is extremely opulent and has secret doors, a dining table that descends into the floor to be filled with food before ascending again and a huge hall of mirrors where performances and musical recitals are held. The formal gardens are amazing and filled with fountains – they are also based on Versailles. The walk from the ferry to the palace is quite long but there are shuttles available. There are also horse drawn carriages available in the summer. We were lucky with the weather and had a lovely sunny day which really showed the palace and grounds in their best light. Salettl Am Nockherberg: We headed back to Munich and enjoyed our final dinner at Salettl. There are several bars and restaurants in this complex and we went to the traditional BBQ venue. The complex is very traditional with folk music and dancing. Each bar has their own beer barrels and at the start of the beer season, the mayor of the town hammers  in the first tap – the town’s luck for the year is based on the number of taps required so the mayor needs a strong arm! It’s a down to earth place to be, it isn’t fine dining. The food was delicious and I recommend giving it a go. Ingolstadt Village: Our final stop on the way to the airport was some luxury and designer factory outlet shopping at Ingolstadt Village. There are more than 110 boutiques to visit, all in the setting of a traditional Bavarian village. They also offer concierge services, hands-free shopping and personal shopping and there are restaurants and cafes available when you need a break. I picked up some great bargains for my family.   I really enjoyed my time in Munich and Salzburg and didn’t realise there was so much to see and do. I’d love to go back and explore further. It’s definitely worth breaking your journey to spend a few days here. The details: Flights: Lufthansa don’t fly into Australia so we flew with their codeshare partner Singapore Airlines from Melbourne to Singapore and then onto Munich with Lufthansa. The service aboard Lufthansa was amazing and I felt it was above average. We were on one of the older aircraft but were told by the Lufthansa representative that the Singapore to Munich route is soon to receive the new A350 Allegris. The A350 will have a first-class cabin, seven different types of seats within Business Class, Premium Economy and Economy with the option to purchase a Legroom seat or a Free Neighbour Seat. If you’re flying business class to Europe, Lufthansa are definitely worth looking at as they have fantastic fares. They also have an extensive network within Europe so travellers can fly to more obscure places that other carriers don’t fly to. I’d also recommend looking at Lufthansa if you’re considering a round the world flight. Where we stayed: LOUIS Hotel in Munich: This boutique hotel had lots of character with incredible staff. The hotel is right on the edge of the old markets so it’s in a great location for exploring. Sheraton Grand in Salzburg: Like many other hotels, the Sheraton Grand is in the old part of the town and next to the Mirabell Gardens. It’s a very modern hotel with great staff and all the facilities you’d expect from a 5-star hotel. Rosewood in Munich: This is a newly opened hotel located in the Old Town and captures the essence of Bavarian culture with its Baroque architecture. It was spectacular with very friendly staff. They also have a great jazz bar which is open to the public, spa treatments, Alpine-inspired cuisine and an indoor pool. Read more about Rosewood here .   To find out more about flying with Lufthansa or experiencing all that Munich and Salzburg have to offer, please contact us. Sam travelled as a guest of Lufthansa and Jewels of Romantic Europe.