Rosina Novello's Italy: Uncover Hidden Gems You Won't Believe!
Rosina Novello's Italy: Uncover Hidden Gems You Won't Believe! - A Review That's Actually Honest (And A Bit Chaotic)
Okay, folks, listen up! You've seen the glossy brochures, the perfectly posed Instagram shots. Now, get ready for the real deal on Rosina Novello's Italy: Uncover Hidden Gems You Won't Believe! because, honestly, I'm still processing it all. This ain’t your grandma’s TripAdvisor review; this is me, fresh off an Italian adventure, spilling the (slightly spilled, mind you) Prosecco.
First things first: Accessibility. They try. The website says "facilities for disabled guests," but let's be realistic. Italy, with its cobbled streets and passion for tiny alleyways, is not always a wheelchair-friendly paradise. This is a big "it depends." Elevator? Check. Access to the lobby? Probably. Getting into that hidden trattoria down a cobbled slope? Pray for a miracle and good friends willing to heave you. If you need absolute, guaranteed wheelchair accessible everything, double-check everything before you go. This is where the research REALLY needs to happen, people. Don't assume.
Internet? Ah, the eternal travel struggle. The good news? Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! (Hallelujah!). Internet access – wireless is a given, and some have Internet [LAN] if you’re that old-school. But the connection? Let’s just say it’s sometimes Italian; unpredictable, passionate, and occasionally disappears without warning. Be prepared to embrace the digital detox… or, you know, rage into the abyss.
Restaurants, Lounges, and Food, Oh My! This is where Rosina's recommendations REALLY shine. The book promises "hidden gems," and, by the gods, she delivers. My personal highlight? The Poolside Bar. Oh, that poolside bar! Picture this: the sun blazing, the turquoise water shimmering, and me, sprawled on a sun lounger, nursing a perfectly chilled Aperol Spritz. Pure bliss. Pool with view is an understatement as the view across the valley was breathtaking. They also have Coffee/tea in restaurant and Coffee shop.
The food itself? Forget your boring hotel buffets. Many places feature A la carte in restaurant, boasting International cuisine in restaurant, Western cuisine in restaurant, and some even delve into Asian cuisine in restaurant, offering variations and twists on traditional dishes. The breakfast [buffet] options were incredible, from mountains of fresh fruit to delectable pastries. I spent a whole morning just sampling the pastries. No regrets! They also, thankfully, have Breakfast takeaway service to help get over the previous nights indulgences. They do offer Breakfast service. Vegetarian restaurant options were available. And for the late-night cravings, the room service [24-hour] was a lifesaver more than once.
Ways to Relax (Because, Let's Face It, You Deserve It!) The list of Spa options is enticing. The Massage was a particular highlight. Having that knot worked out of my shoulders…it was pure, unadulterated joy. I'm talking about the kind of joy that makes you want to cry, in a good way. Some have Spa/sauna, Sauna, Steamroom, Pool with view. Others offer Body scrub and Body wrap. Sadly, I didn't get around to the Gym/fitness center - blame the Aperol, or the sheer, simple joy of doing absolutely nothing but staring at the view.
Cleanliness and Safety: The New Normal I'm not going to lie; I went in with a healthy dose of anxiety (thanks, pandemic!). But honestly, I felt very safe. They really take this seriously. Hand sanitizer everywhere. Daily disinfection in common areas. Sanitized kitchen and tableware items. Staff trained in safety protocol. Rooms sanitized between stays. Anti-viral cleaning products. Individually-wrapped food options. They've clearly poured a lot of money into Professional-grade sanitizing services. I even saw them using Sterilizing equipment and removing Shared stationery removed. It definitely put my mind at ease. Many places offer Cashless payment service too which is super convienient.
Things to Do (Beyond Just Eating and Drinking…Maybe) Okay, okay, so I focused on the food. But honestly, Rosina Novello's book DOES inspire you to explore. The Concierge at most places are incredibly helpful, and they book tours, suggest local experiences, and generally make you feel taken care of. The Gift/souvenir shop comes in handy for impulse buys. The Convenience store, too.
In-Room Amenities: What to Expect Expect a mix. Yes, you'll likely have Air conditioning (thank the heavens!), a Coffee/tea maker (essential!), and hopefully a Refrigerator for keeping your vino chilled. The bathrobes and slippers are always a nice touch, and the free bottled water is a lifesaver in the Italian heat. Some places have Separate shower/bathtub, Additional toilet, and even a Bathroom phone (because, why not?). Daily housekeeping keeps things tidy, and the wake-up service gets you up for that early morning gelato.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter The Laundry service was a godsend after I accidentally spilled red wine down myself. The dry cleaning service also helped. The Car park [free of charge] is a blessing (parking in Italy can be a nightmare!). Luggage storage is super helpful before check in and after check out.
For the Kids: Many offer facilities! Babysitting service is especially helpful.
The Verdict: Is It Worth It?
Absolutely. Rosina’s book is a starting point. Then you add your own, and it’s the experience that’s worth the trip. Italy is messy, beautiful, frustrating, and utterly captivating. This guide helps you find that "wow" moment, the one you'll be talking about for years.
Now, for the Sales Pitch (Yes, I Have One!)
Ready to ditch the pre-packaged tourist traps and discover the real Italy? To find those hidden trattorias, sip that perfect Aperol Spritz, and experience the magic of a country that'll steal your heart?
Here's My Offer: Book Your Italian Adventure Now!
Book your trip to one of Rosina Novello's featured hotels/locations and receive:
- A complimentary bottle of Prosecco upon arrival (because, Italy!).
- Exclusive access to a "Hidden Gems" map created by yours truly, detailing my favorite off-the-beaten-path discoveries.
- Discounted rates on select local tours and experiences (think cooking classes, wine tastings, and more!).
- **A stress-free journey with our concierge team, who can help you to plan your stay and deal with the ever-present Italian bureaucratic.
- The peace of mind that comes from knowing you're exploring a country that's both endlessly enchanting and a little bit bonkers (in the best possible way!).
Click here to book your unique Italian getaway! Don't just see Italy; experience it. And trust me, you won't believe what you find. Ciao!
Unbelievable! This UK Lizard's Captain's Cabin Will SHOCK You!
Okay, buckle up buttercup, because this isn't just an itinerary, it's a Rosina Novello, Italy, SURVIVAL GUIDE (with gelato breaks). I'm not even sure I can handle this. Let's see if we can muddle through this… thing.
Day 1: Arrival. Or, How I Nearly Lost My Luggage to a Seagull (Probably Named "Ciao")
- Morning (Or, "When Did It Become Afternoon?"): Arrive in Bologna (bleh, Bologna, I'm already dreading the airport food). Get a rental car that's probably going to be too small for me, my luggage, and my inevitable collection of olive oil bottles. Pray to the travel gods for no flat tires in the middle of nowhere.
- Anecdote Time: Okay, so, the flight was delayed. Of course it was. And the baggage claim? More like baggage… abyss. I swear, a seagull, HUGE, with a particularly smug look on his face, almost snatched my carry-on. Maybe he thought it was a giant, free sandwich. I swear, I saw him wink! (Or maybe it was the jet lag.)
- Afternoon (Or, "Lunch? What's Lunch?"): Drive to L'Angolo di Rosina Novello. The GPS will inevitably lead me down a road that is definitely not a road. Expect a near-death experience involving a hairpin turn and a grumpy Italian farmer gesturing wildly. Pray, again.
- Quirky Observation: The scenery? Gorgeous. Like, postcard-worthy. But also… full of tiny, terrifying dogs that bark at you as if you've personally offended their entire lineage.
- Evening (Or, "Finally, Food!"): Check in to the (hopefully) charming agriturismo. Panic about not knowing any Italian beyond "Ciao" and "Grazie." Find a local trattoria. Order something… anything! Embrace the mystery meat. Maybe a glass (or three) of local wine. Embrace it, don't fight it.
- Emotional Reaction: HOLY MOLY, the food! Even the mystery meat was melt-in-your-mouth delicious. This is what I call a win.
Day 2: Pasta, Prosciutto, and Existential Dread (But Mostly Pasta)
- Morning (Or, "Rise and… Attempt to Speak Italian"): Cooking class! I'm going to learn to make pasta. I'm picturing myself as a culinary goddess, twirling dough with effortless grace. The reality will probably involve flour in my hair, a lot of awkward hand gestures, and slightly lopsided ravioli.
- Messy Structure: Okay, so, the pasta making… it was hard. Like, really hard. And the Nonna, bless her heart, spoke approximately zero English. But somehow, we communicated. Maybe it was the shared love of carbs?
- Afternoon (Or, "Feast Mode Activated!"): The fruits of my labor! (And hopefully, someone else's labor, because I'm pretty sure I almost set the kitchen on fire). Pasta and prosciutto… pure bliss. Followed by a nap, because, well, pasta.
- Opinionated Language: Screw dieting! This trip is about living. So, bring on the cheese, the bread, the… everything. I mean, when in Italy, right? And if I gain 10 pounds in a week, it's worth it.
- Evening (Or, "Sun-Downer Sadness"): Exploring the local town. I saw a church and a piazza, I'm not sure what is the name. Contemplate the meaning of life over a gelato. The chocolate, naturally. (Can you really go to Italy and not eat gelato every single day? It's simply unimaginable!)
- Stream-of-Consciousness: The gelato… oh, the gelato. That first bite. Honestly, it brought a tear to my eye. Pure, unadulterated joy. Thinking about it now, makes my heart skip a beat. Maybe the meaning of life is gelato. Maybe I should just quit my job and open a gelato shop. No, maybe not.
Day 3: The Quest for the Perfect View (And a Few Minor Mishaps)
- Morning (Or, "Up and At 'Em… Eventually"): A scenic drive. Attempt to find the best viewpoint. Get lost. Probably drive in circles. Curse the GPS again.
- Imperfections: I got SO lost. I seriously considered just pulling over and crying. And then the car died. Thankfully, a lovely, elderly man in an apron fixed it. Bless him.
- Afternoon (Or, "Finally, The View!"): Hike to the highest point. The view… well, let's just say it was worth the near-death experience. Photo overload. Seriously, I'm going to need another memory card.
- Doubling Down: The hike itself wasn't as bad. It was the getting there that tested my patience. Winding roads, no guardrails, and the constant fear of plummeting into a vineyard. The view from the top? Absolutely transcendent. The rolling hills, the terracotta rooftops, the impossibly blue sky… it was all just perfect. I almost cried.
- Evening (Or, "Dinner with the Locals… Maybe"): Trying to eat at an unknown restaurant. My Italian is atrocious. Ask for something delicious. Get it wrong. But still enjoy it.
- Stronger Emotional Reaction: The feeling of accomplishment was incredible. Being on top of the world, looking at the beautiful landscape was amazing.
Day 4: Wine, Wine, and More Wine! (And Possibly a Hangover)
- Morning (Or, "Wake Me Up Before You… Wine Tour!"): Wine tour! Because, Italy. Need I say more?
- Messy Structure: Woke up with a slight headache. Okay, a significant headache. Regret starting the wine tour with a Prosecco. But the wine. Oh, the wine.
- Afternoon (Or, "Slosh-Slosh… I Need Cheese!"): Wine tasting! Learn about grapes and vineyards. Pretend to know the difference between a Merlot and a Pinot Grigio. Fall in love with the Sangiovese. Buy way too many bottles to take home.
- Funny: I had a moment where I thought I was a wine connoisseur, trying to explain the subtle notes of "earthiness" in a particular Chianti. I am pretty sure I sounded like a complete idiot. Still, I got a good laugh.
- Evening (Or, "Carbo-Load for the Flight Home"): Dinner in the town, again. The pizza, the pasta, the wine! This time, I'm taking no prisoners in ordering.
- More Stream-of-Consciousness: The wine… it’s a blur. The food… amazing. I’ll have to come back again.
Day 5: Goodbye, Italy (Until Next Time, You Beautiful Disaster)
- Morning (Or, "Farewell, Pizza!"): Last-minute souvenir shopping. Attempt to buy a tiny, ceramic donkey. Fail. Give up and buy more olive oil (because, priorities).
- More Opinionated/ Honest: This country is beautiful, but it’s a lot. I have mixed feelings about Italy.
- Afternoon (Or, "The Great Packing Debacle"): Pack (or, attempt to). Realize I have too many things. Start throwing stuff away. Decide I need more olive oil.
- Quirky Observation: Packing? What is packing? I swear, my suitcase now weighs more than I do.
- Evening (Or, "Ciao, Bella!"): Drive back to Bologna. Return the rental car (with hopefully minimal damage). Fly home, exhausted, happy, and already dreaming of a return trip. Maybe next time, I'll learn some real Italian. And maybe, just maybe, the seagull will leave me alone…
- Emotional Reaction: I'm sad to leave. I'm also exhausted. But I'm also completely and utterly in love. Italy, you crazy, beautiful, messy, delicious place, I'll be back.
Rosina Novello's Italy: Uncover Hidden Gems You Won't Believe! - FAQ: The Real Dirt (and Deliciousness)
Okay, Rosina, spill it. Is this *actually* all hidden gem sunshine and rainbows? Or are there, like, *problems*?
Hah! Oh, honey, PLEASE. You think *Italy* is all sunshine? Bless your heart. Look, I'm a realist. And yes, there are DEFINITELY problems. Bugs. Bureaucracy. Coffee that's weaker than dishwater (looking at you, one specific place I won't name... but it rhymes with "Bologna"). The trains might be late, someone will *definitely* cut you in line at the gelateria, and you’ll probably end up lost in a dead-end alley at least once. Trust me, I have. More than once. Remember that time in Matera...?
But here’s the thing: those “problems”? They’re part of the charm. Like, the time I was stuck in a tiny town, the train delayed, and ended up befriending a nonna who fed me the best pasta of my life? Pure gold. So, yes, expect hiccups. Embrace them. They're the ingredients that make the *real* magic happen.
What *actually* qualifies as a "hidden gem" in your book, Rosina? Because I'm seeing a lot of "Instagrammable" places these days...
Instagrammable is my WORST nightmare. Honestly. A "hidden gem," for me, is something that makes your soul sing, not just your profile. It's a place that whispers secrets, not shouts for attention. It's a place where you're more likely to stumble upon a grumpy old man who makes the best limoncello you've ever tasted than a selfie stick brigade.
It’s about the *feeling*, you know? That moment when you take a breath and think, "Wow. This. This is it." That could be a crumbling palazzo courtyard, a tiny trattoria where the menu is scribbled on a napkin, or a breathtaking view that's not plastered all over every travel blog. Think authentic, think local, think *unspoiled*. Forget the crowds. Find the heart.
Give me a specific "hidden gem" recommendation, Rosina! Something that's not, like, Venice (duh).
Alright, alright, don't get your cannoli in a twist. Okay, I’m going to give you something a little… controversial. I’m talking about *Città Sant'Angelo* in Abruzzo. I’m talking about a crumbling, gorgeous, almost forgotten town perched on a hill. I'm talking about the PERFECT anti-Venice.
Citta’ Sant’Angelo… wow. It's the kind of place where the air smells of woodsmoke and history. I was wandering around – literally lost at first – and stumbled upon this tiny, tiny little pizzeria. And the pizza… OH. MY. GOD. The crust was this perfect, bubbly, crispy-chewy thing. The sauce was simple, fresh, and bursting with flavor. The mozzarella… well, I may have shed a tear. I ate two entire pizzas. Alone. Don't judge me. It was an experience! I wasn't just eating pizza; I was *living*. And the people? So kind, just ordinary folks. No pretense whatsoever. I mean, the place was half empty, because it’s NOT on the tourist trail. Thank goodness.
Seriously, go. Bring good walking shoes, and a healthy appetite. And maybe a small phrasebook – English is NOT widely spoken. And for Pete’s sake, if you go, tell them Rosina sent you. Okay, maybe don’t. That might ruin the magic. Whatever. Just go.
What about the *food*? Is it really all about the pasta and pizza? Because I’m starting to feel like I’m going to explode.
Look, the pasta and pizza ARE amazing. But yes, there's SO much more! Italy is a culinary playground. But listen, I'm not going to give you a list of Michelin-starred restaurants. Firstly, I can’t afford them. Secondly, that's not the point here.
Think about the *regionality*! Have you had, like, *real* Sicilian arancini, still warm from the fryer? (Forget those dry, sad things you get in the US, believe me!). Fresh, briny seafood in Liguria. The rich, earthy truffles of Umbria. The simple, perfect ingredients carefully prepared. And forget about the calories. You'll walk it off – especially if you eat like I do. Just promise me one thing: Try everything! And don't be afraid to ask the person behind the counter for a recommendation. That’s where the real gold is found.
Okay, Rosina, I'm in! But I haven't exactly conquered Italian yet. Do I need to be fluent?
Fluent? Absolutely not! A few basic phrases will work wonders. "Buongiorno," "Grazie," "Scusi," "Parla inglese?" (Do you speak English?) will get you pretty far. But I'll tell you a secret: Italians *appreciate* the effort. Even if you butcher the pronunciation, they'll laugh with you, not at you. It's part of the fun!
Honestly, you'll learn as you go. Embrace the misunderstandings, the fumbling, the hilarious attempts to order something you *think* is chicken but turns out to be… well, let’s just say it wasn't chicken. It's all part of the story. It's the memories you'll cherish! Embrace the messiness. The awkwardness is part of the charm. Trust me, that stumbling, "un po' italiano" is charming. Especially if you're ordering wine. Just point at the bottle and smile. Works every time.
Any tips for avoiding the… let’s call them “less pleasant” aspects of Italian travel? Like, the crowds? The tourist traps?
Alright, here's the lowdown. First, the crowds: Travel in the *off-season*. Seriously. Shoulder season (spring or fall) is your friend. Or, well, you can get there in the middle of winter, and absolutely have everything to yourself if you don't mind the cold. Also... get up early. The early bird gets the… EMPTY PIAZZA. And for the love of all that is holy, *get away from the main tourist areas*.
And the tourist traps? Look for signs of real life. Forget the perfectly pristine restaurants with the English menus. Wander down the side streets. Look for the nonna hanging laundry. Eat where the locals eat. Observe. Listen. And most importantly, TRUST your gut. If something feels too slick, too polished, too… fake… it probably is. Your gut will tell you. Remember, the best experiences are found when you deviate. And for heaven’s sake, don’t be afraid to get lost. Seriously, it’s the best way to see anywhere.
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