Italy Archives - Offshore

Orient Express La Minerva Unveiled a Stunning New Spa Inspired by Ancient Roman Baths

March 10, 2026

The new wellness sanctuary in Rome blends Ottoman hammam rituals, Sicilian skincare and dramatic design for an immersive escape.

Rome has always understood the art of slowing down. In ancient times, locals gathered at elaborate bathhouses to relax, socialize and restore body and mind. Now, one of the city’s newest luxury hotels is bringing that ritual back in style.

At Orient Express La Minerva, a newly opened spa draws inspiration from the bathing traditions of Roman thermae and the cleansing rituals of the Ottoman hammam. Located steps from the Pantheon, the space is designed as a journey — one that unfolds gradually through heat, steam and water.

Guests move through a sequence of thermal rooms inspired by classical bathing culture. The experience begins in a gently warmed space that allows the body to acclimatize before progressing to a steamy calidarium and ending with a refreshing cold plunge designed to awaken the senses.

The spa itself feels cinematic. Designed by artist-architect Hugo Toro, the interiors blend rich travertine and marble with stained oak and hand-blown Murano glass lighting that casts a warm, candle-like glow. A striking marble hammam anchors the space, surrounded by delicate fountains and intricately patterned screens that play with light and shadow.

Treatments lean into ancient purification rituals. Guests can indulge in elaborate hammam experiences that incorporate aromatic steam, exfoliating scrubs, clay wraps and foaming massages designed to leave skin radiant and muscles fully relaxed.

The spa partners with Sicilian luxury skincare brand Furtuna Skin, known for its botanical formulas crafted from ingredients grown on an organic estate in Sicily. Signature treatments combine natural actives with techniques like facial massage and Gua Sha to boost circulation and revive tired skin.

For travellers looking to keep their wellness routine intact, the spa also includes a Technogym-equipped fitness space and a dedicated Kinesis training room offering personalised workouts, yoga and Pilates sessions.

In a city that practically invented the spa day, Orient Express La Minerva has created a new sanctuary that feels both ancient and unmistakably modern — the kind of place where you might check in for an hour and emerge feeling like you’ve travelled through time.

A Slow-Travel Guide to Liguria, Italy

December 29, 2025

Italy’s Riviera reveals its beauty most to those willing to slow down. Here’s a designer's guide to Liguria’s architecture, cuisine and coastal rituals.

Between the French border and La Spezia, Liguria is a postcard of sun-washed villages clinging to the cliffs. Trains rattle along the edge of the Mediterranean, slipping through tunnels, while sea-salted air drifts through open windows.

“I usually over-plan trips, but Liguria calls for a loose itinerary,” says Montreal-based designer Alexandre Lafleur. “Take your time. Enjoy a late morning reading under an olive tree, have a leisurely lunch followed by multiple dips in the sea, and always catch the sunset with an aperitivo in hand.”

Below are his personal recommendations from his latest trip to the Italian Riviera.

Alassio

Tucked between the Ligurian hills and the water, Alassio feels timeless with its striped parasols, faded frescoes and honey-coloured villas. Stay a few steps from the promenade at Casa d’Artista, a three-room bed-and-breakfast in what was formerly a private seaside home. With frescoed walls, antique armchairs and balconies shaded by tasselled umbrellas, it captures the charm of a slower era.

“In the morning, each room gets breakfast in a picnic basket filled with pastries, fruit, and eggs to enjoy in the breakfast room or seafront balcony,” says Lafleur.

Spend the morning walking the Lungomare, then grab a pair of loungers at one of Alassio’s lidos—private beach clubs with striped cabanas, showers and lively seaside restaurants serving fried anchovies and spritzes. For a taste of old-world grandeur, visit the gardens of Villa della Pergola, where wisteria, citrus and jasmine fill the air.

End the day with a Michelin-starred dinner at Nove, the villa’s restaurant. Dishes like goat-cheese agnolotti and sourdough panzanella with green gazpacho are elegant without being fussy, and the best spot to enjoy them is from the terrace overlooking the sea.

Cavi & Sestri Levante

Just a short train ride east, make your home base at Casa Pernice, a lovingly restored farmhouse in Cavi di Lavagna, where owners Giorgia and Davide have created a laid-back, design-forward escape. The rooms feel effortlessly chic with linen-draped beds, vintage ceramics, and sunlight spilling across old terracotta floors. Mornings start with homemade pastries and eggs from their hens, followed by a stroll down to Bagni Mignon, their retro-chic beach club on the pebbled shore.

Cavi sits between the polished resort town of Sestri Levante and the wild beauty of Portofino National Park. Take a ferry to San Fruttuoso, a tiny monastery bay framed by forested cliffs, where the 13th-century abbey is reachable only by water or a long coastal hike. The reward is a swim in clear turquoise water and lunch at Da Laura—lasagnette verde with pesto, fritto misto and a chilled white wine under the olive trees.

Back in Sestri Levante, stop by Baia del Silenzio (Bay of Silence), and do as the locals do: Take an evening swim before heading to Rezzano or Balin for fresh seafood, pasta, and a glass of Vermentino.

Genoa

Once a powerful maritime republic, Genoa is a city of contrasts, with Renaissance palaces beside narrow alleys and marble staircases leading to quiet courtyards.

Wander through the caruggi, Genoa’s medieval lanes where artisans still make focaccia and brass fixtures by hand. Visit the Palazzi dei Rolli, a UNESCO-listed set of 16th- and 17th-century noble homes, or stroll Via Garibaldi, lined with painted façades and ornate balconies. Pause for an espresso at an old-world café before catching the train back.

Most of Liguria’s coastline is connected by rail, making car-free travel easy and scenic. Every town along the route, from Camogli to Laigueglia, offers its own version of seaside life—the morning markets, the scent of salt and citrus, the fresh seafood. It’s a rhythm you’ll fall into quickly, and one that’s hard to leave behind.

The List

Stay Casa d’Artista (Alassio); Casa Pernice (Cavi)

Eat Nove (Alassio); Terrazza Praié (Laigueglia); Da Laura (San Fruttuoso)

Do Ferry to San Fruttuoso; Swim at Baia del Silenzio; Explore Genoa’s Palazzi dei Rolli

Drink A Hugo Spritz at lunch; a glass of chilled Vermentino at sunset

Bring Back Ligurian olive oil, hand-painted ceramics, Genovese pesto, or a woven market bag

Auberge Resorts just debuted its first Italian property, and it’s a Renaissance-era dream

July 28, 2025

Renaissance meets modern romance at Collegio alla Querce, the newest showstopper from Auberge Resorts Collection—and their very first in Italy. Perched in Florence’s north hills, this boutique property occupies a former convent and boarding school, with restored 16th-century frescoes, cloistered courtyards, and front-row views of the Duomo.

The 83-room retreat feels more like a private estate than a hotel. Expect old-world glamour and thoughtful indulgences: a vaulted spa, a wine program run by a master sommelier, and a serene cypress-lined garden perfect for post-museum aperitivo. Plus, there’s that pool.

There’s also a sense of cultural immersion baked into the experience—art and architecture tours can be arranged on request, and local chefs frequently collaborate with the kitchen team for intimate pop-up dinners. Even the rooms channel a sense of history, with curated antiques and views that feel like oil paintings.

Florence is always a good idea, but Collegio alla Querce makes it a great one. It’s intimate, cinematic, and full of soul—the kind of place where you unpack your bags and never want to leave. Andiamo.

This tour operator is offering a series of self-guided cycling trips through Italy

February 28, 2025

Building on last year’s successful launch of self-guided cycling tours in Italy, ExperiencePlus! Bicycle Tours, a trailblazer in cycling vacations and leader in active travel, is introducing three new extended itineraries for 2025, offering travellers a deeper dive into the rich culture and stunning landscapes of Italy’s la dolce vita.

These longer trips align with the growing trend of slow travel, combining multiple weeklong routes to create seamless adventures that prioritize immersive and sustainable experiences.

“We think that with the expense and time it takes to travel these days, a longer bike tour just makes sense,” said Maria Elena Price, co-owner of ExperiencePlus! Bicycle Tours. “Not to mention, spending more time in a place – getting to know it in the more immersive and intimate manner that exploring by bike provides – is so much more enriching, rewarding, and overall, a more sustainable way to travel.”

Designed for travellers who love the freedom of choosing their own pace while enjoying the peace-of-mind that comes with knowing key details such as accommodations and route mapping are taken care of, these new adventures offer deep dives into three famed regions: The Dolomites, Emilia-Romagna, and Tuscany.

For details on all ExperiencePlus! Bicycle Tours’ guided and self-guided cycling adventures in Europe, the Caribbean, and South America, visit ExperiencePlus.com.

Six Senses is opening properties in Lake Como and Milan

October 21, 2024

Six Senses has signed hotel management agreements with Gruppo Statuto as part of an exciting new chapter in its Italian story. Six Senses Milan and Six Senses Lake Como will follow the debut opening of Six Senses Rome in 2023 in the restored Palazzo Salviati Cesi Mellini and the announcement of the upcoming Six Senses Antognolla in Umbria.

IHG Hotels & Resorts’ fast-growing Luxury & Lifestyle portfolio now features nearly 100 open hotels in Europe, including eight Six Senses properties in Italy, Switzerland, France, Israel, Portugal, Spain and Türkiye.

Six Senses Milan enjoys a prime address at Via Brera 19 in the heart of the artistic Brera quarter, emblematic of authentic Milanese heritage and culture. Six Senses Lake Como will continue the legacy of the first hospitality destination opened on the shores of Lake Como in 1820 in Cadenabbia di Griante, an area rich in history, art, and nature, which over the years has drawn illustrious emperors, monarchs, writers and celebrities to its sparkling shores.

These two latest Italian signings also establish Gruppo Statuto as the leading Italian real estate group with a portfolio of international hotels, having acquired Six Senses London and Six Senses Ibiza in addition to Six Senses Rome.

Six Senses Milan

The galleries around Via Brera and masterpieces within the Pinacoteca Museum offer a pause from Milan’s high-energy rhythms.

Tucked away in this artists’ quarter, Six Senses Milan is therefore well positioned to take guests on a journey of discovery through craftsmanship and timeless style, from the arabescato marble to the antique brass detailing, handmade smoked glass, textured ceilings, and mosaic borders.

Six Senses Milan also showcases the brand’s deep commitment to sustainability, which flows from the materials and furnishings to the prominent space dedicated to the Earth Lab, tranquil internal courtyard, and specialty restaurant and deli featuring seasonal gastronomy.

Of the 68 guest rooms, 15 are suites, and two feature plunge pools. No Six Senses is complete without a state-of-the-art spa to administer a range of high-tech, high-touch treatments, and the rooftop bar and sky pool also make a splash.

Six Senses Lake Como

A nearby retreat for the Milanese, an inspiration for romantics Wordsworth, Shelley, and Byron, and a holiday spot for Queen Victoria and Hollywood legends: Lake Como has long been a dreamy leisure destination with a storied past and glamorous present.

Following a full restoration of the Grand Hotel Cadenabbia on the lake’s western shores, Six Senses Lake Como will blend a resort lifestyle with the region’s rich heritage for a unique retreat amid picturesque gardens, where rare plants and rejuvenated guests will flourish on the lake’s shores.

The number of guest rooms within the six-story property will be significantly reduced to accommodate 102 generously sized rooms and suites as well as more space dedicated to the spa and wellness area. The outdoor pool and sun deck will be complemented by a floating pool on the lake. Along with the specialty restaurant, the terrace bar and restaurant with quintessential lake views on the fourth floor will no doubt continue to inspire poetry, prose, and proposals.

IHG more than doubled its Luxury & Lifestyle offering in Italy in 2023, which also saw the return of the InterContinental brand with the opening of InterContinental Rome Ambasciatori Palace. Six Senses Milan and Six Senses Lake Como join 30 open hotels in the country, and an additional eight in development, including brand debuts for the Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants and Vignette Collection brands.

Six Senses Milan is set to open in 2025 and Six Senses Lake Como in 2028. In the meantime, for more on the global Six Senses portfolio, or to book a stay, visit sixsenses.com.

.

Inside the Italian town that gave us Parmesan cheese

March 18, 2024

On a trip to the grocery store the other day, I found myself standing in the pasta aisle.

Stocked between the packages of linguine and penne, rigatoni and fusilli, and hovering above exorbitant rows of pre-mixed jars of pasta sauce, were an army of plastic shakers, crammed with Parmesan cheese.

Grabbing one, I rolled the container over and skimmed the ingredients: cellulose powder, potassium sorbate, calcium chloride, lipase, sorbic acid…the list went on, with a string of other words that sounded just as unnatural.

Don’t get me wrong; I’d grown up eating the Parmesan cheese I was now side-eyeing. After ladling chunky Bolognese sauce onto a plate of steaming, buttered spaghetti noodles, the cheese was the next best part, even though sometimes you’d have to whack the bottom to get the clumpy pieces to break apart. After a few vigorous shakes with roughly a quarter of the container dispersed, the pasta was ready to eat.

I never gave much thought to this cheese, which for some reason, could sit on a shelf with dried goods and not go bad, sometimes for more than a year. But after visiting a local caseificio, (known locally as a classic dairy farm) in Parma, Italy, I had a new appreciation for one of North America’s favourite cheeses.

A 1,000 year-old secret

Like the city’s name suggests, Parma is the birthplace of Parmigiano Reggiano, which is a protected designation of origin product, and somewhat of a national treasure to all of Italy.

For one thousand years, the production of Parmigiano Reggiano in Parma has followed an ancient recipe using just three simple ingredients: milk, salt and rennet—familiar and natural ingredients, I might add. With such simple origins, the final product is also lactose-free, high in protein and low in fat.

Originating in the Middle Ages, Benedictine monks were the first to start churning out large wheels of cheese with a long maturation period, using salt from the nearby Salsomaggiore salt mines and fresh cow’s milk.

Free from additives and preservatives, the longer the cheese aged, the more value it held.

According to the Consortium of Parmigiano Reggiano, which was founded in 1901 in a bid to authenticate and differentiate between copycat Parmesan cheeses, the first evidence of cheese being used as commerce through trade dates back to a record of sale in the 12th century. From dowries to land agreements, cheese was used as a form of currency for hundreds of years.

The making of a perfect Parmesan

At Azienda Agricola Bertinelli, a producer of Parmigiano Reggiano, the process starts with roughly 550 litres of raw milk.

“Half of the milk is from the previous evening that is kept in large containers and half is from this morning,” said Giovanna Rosati, spokesperson for the Consortium of Parmigiano Reggiano. “In the morning, they push the container over the vat and the partially skimmed milk falls into the vat. They are not allowed to use a decreamer, because it would alter the milk. It’s a great example of a protected designation of origin (PDO) product, which is a product that owes its characteristics to its area of origin, where it is produced, not to some secret patented recipe,” she added.

From there, rennet (an enzyme found in the stomach of dairy cattle) is added and the milk begins to naturally curd. Next, it’s the job of the master cheesemaker to break the curd down and begin cooking the cheese. Using steam, the curds sink to the bottom of the vat and begin to form one giant mass. From start to finish, the process takes roughly 50 minutes, in which two twin wheels of cheese are created.

But the work doesn’t stop there. After cooking, each cheese is wrapped in a traditional linen cloth, then placed in a traditional mould, which gives it its classic wheel shape. Next, it’s transferred to a casein plate, which is outfitted with a sequential alphanumeric code that enables the cheese to be traced all the way back to its origins.

Holding up the stencil, Rosati looks almost like a WWE wrestler with the prized championship belt. “This engraves a few key details on the rind of the cheese,” she explains, noting it includes the code of the dairy producer where the cheese was made, as well as the month and year of production.

To be classified as a true Parmigiano Reggiano product, the cheese must be aged for a minimum of 12 months and undergo a rigorous quality control check, which includes a series of tapping tests to check for air pockets or tears.

And as for the cheese that doesn’t pass the test?

It’s cut up and sold as regular Parmesan—not to say that it isn’t outstanding, but without that stamp of approval, it’s no Parmigiano Reggiano.

This story first appeared in the Spring 2024 issue of OFFSHORE. To read the full version, click here to access a digital copy.

Inside Sardinia’s newest luxury beachfront resort

August 22, 2022

7Pines Resort Sardinia, a luxury beachfront resort overlooking the archipelago of La Maddalena officially opened in early August.

Offering unparalleled tranquility and laid-back luxury on one of Europe’s most distinctive coastlines, 7Pines Resort Sardinia represents the first hotel in Italy to join the Destination by Hyatt portfolio, as well as the first Hyatt-affiliated hotel in Sardinia. The official opening demonstrates Hyatt’s ongoing commitment to growing its luxury brands in the most sought-after destinations.

The resort is situated in Baja Sardinia on the Costa Smeralda, just 10 minutes from the Porto Cervo neighborhood. The 76-room property is built within centuries-old rock formations with paths that weave through verdant gardens out to the resort’s five secluded and unspoiled beaches, near wild coves and brilliant blue coastline. Thanks to the resort’s on-site yachting services, guests can explore the emerald lagoons and heavenly beaches of the La Maddalena archipelago, which is a 20-minute boat ride away.

Stylish rooms

Piazza Martiri 7 authentically designed the 76 guestrooms with locally crafted features made from natural materials unique to Sardinia and include bespoke weavings, light fixtures and furniture created from the island’s juniper trees. The natural materials echo in the neutral tones of the rooms, immersing visitors to the lush landscape of the resort’s 37-acre (15-hectare) gardens. The Sea Views rooms, the Suite Del Principe, and the 731-foot (68-square meter) Suite Smeralda overlook the resort’s quiet beaches and have direct beach access.

Elevated cuisine

7Pines Resort Sardinia’s three restaurants take guests on a journey of discovery through the finest local flavors and ingredients. The hotel’s main restaurant, Capogiro, offers seasonal dishes with the freshest produce that has been grown and caught locally. In the Cone Club, a day-to-night concept with a full-service beach bar, restaurant, bar and club, famed chef Tohru Nakamura collaborates with the best local producers for a truly Sardinian casual dining experience, complimented by mixologist Philip Bischoff’s signature cocktail menu. At Spazio, the poolside restaurant, guests find daytime refreshments and informal lunch options, while the Beach Bar delivers drinks directly to their cabana. The Terrace Bar promises incomparable sunset views – aperitif or exotic cocktail in hand.

For more information on the hotel, click here!

A look at the most popular places to travel from Canada

August 12, 2022

According to new research from First in Service Travel LTD (F1S), Italy, France and Greece are the top international destinations Canadian advisors are booking and recommending.

“With all the pent-up demand for travel, coupled with the Canadian dollar’s stronger performance against the euro over the past year, it’s no surprise that Europe is performing so well,” explained Fernando Gonzalez, chief executive officer for F1S, one of North America’s largest independent travel agencies. “Italy has once again claimed its place among the world’s premier destinations, thanks to its stunning scenery, exquisite culture and history, epicurean delights, and extraordinary people.”

Findings from the recent survey had F1S travel advisors name the top three international destination they were booking for 2022. Among international destinations, 72.7% of the advisors named Italy as one of their top destinations, followed by France (45.5%) and Greece (27.3).

“Italy is always a winner,” added F1S advisor Willa Griffin. Advisor Waldo Wohl concurred, offering a simple explanation that “Italy is always Italy.”

Gonzalez indicated that the biggest surprise internationally for the year is the popularity of Greece. “Whether it’s the culture of ancient cities like Athens or the allure of the islands, Greece has really taken off over the past couple years. It was able to take hold during the pandemic and has maintained its strong forward momentum this year,” he said.

F1S advisor Marisa Wise added that she is booking “lots of Santorini. Its views and food are amazing. Also, Greek island cruising is super popular.”

First in Service advisors in Canada were also asked which “under the radar” destinations they are booking most internationally. Colombia and Portugal were tied for first place, with 27.3% of advisors recommending each.

“Travel to the United States and cruising have both been on the rebound,” Gonzalez added. “Additionally, we will soon issue the trends we are seeing specifically for domestic travel within Canada.”

F1S advisor George Alexandrou is among those recommending Colombia because “it has a great mix of culture, adventure and direct flights.” Meanwhile, Portugal is recommended by F1S advisor Christina Gula, who said, “Portugal is a beautiful country with lots to offer. Great scenery, food and culture.”

Most popular travel picks

Each surveyed advisor was also asked to name the single most popular international destination they are specifically booking for Canadian clients on each continent and other major regions globally.

The top picks were:

Africa: South Africa
Asia: Thailand
Australia/New Zealand/South Pacific: Australia
Caribbean: St. Barths
Central America: Costa Rica
Europe: Italy
Middle East: Israel
North America: United States
South America: Colombia

Willa Griffin, who helps lead the agency in Canada, pointed out that they’ve seen a major uptick in last minute bookings with borders reopening.

“I think it’s been a combination of pent up demand and the feeling that the world might close down again,” Griffin shared. “Personally, I feel like things will regulate themselves again very soon. This spring and summer were all about having the freedom to travel again. Moving forward, I think people will again start to plan ahead, maybe not like they used but will want to ensure that they get what they want from their travel dollars. I am already seeing very limited availability for festive which to me is a very good sign.”

The 25Hours Hotel in Florence, Italy, forces guests to spend a night in Heaven or Hell

January 20, 2022

A new opening by 25hours Hotels in Florence, Italy is anything but cookie cutter — giving guests the chance to stay in Heaven or Hell.

Inspired by Dante Alighieri’s Divine Comedy, rooms at 25hours Hotel Piazza San Paolino are divided into two styles: Inferno and Paradiso. Milan-based designer Paola Navone created the red Inferno rooms with velvet curtains and black bed linen.

The Paradiso spaces are meant to be cloud-white retreats with ethereal blue accents.

The stylish 171 room property features a classic Negroni bar, a sauna with relaxation room, a gym, a seasonal Italian restaurant focusing on Tuscan cuisine, a typical alimentari – a grocery store for the neighbourhood, and a lively piazza that serves a small selection of food and drinks to suit the time of day.

The hotel, which represents the brand’s first property in Italy, is in close proximity to Ponte Vecchio, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and the main train station. Whether you opt for heaven or hell, the character of 25hours Hotel Piazza San Paolino makes for a memorable and highly photogenic place to spend the night.

To learn more about the 25hours Hotel San Paolino, click here.

THE BEST OF “Bubble Travel”

July 8, 2021

QUESTION:

What’s better than spending time with your family-and-friend bubble in Muskoka?

ANSWER:

Taking the Holiday of a lifetime with your bubble to that bucket-list destination you have always dreamed about!

The term “bubble travel,” referring to travellers who want the safety and security of travelling within their own trusted circle of family and friends, may have emerged from pandemic life, but Goway Travel, one of North America’s most experienced travel companies, has been specializing in private guided journeys, personalized vacations, and tailor-made tours to exotic destinations for more than 50 years.

“My best ever vacations have been with our family and close friends,” says Bruce Hodge, founder and president of Goway Travel. “When our children were teenagers, we did a private-guided, personalized safari with friends – just us, our two families – in Botswana. It was magical. Then there was the private villa in Tuscany, the jungles of Ecuador combined with a Galapagos cruise, and a river cruise in Myanmar where we were swarmed by locusts one evening. Just a few of the wonderful places and interesting experiences we have been fortunate to share with family and friends.”

After more than a year of lockdown and with an end to travel restrictions in sight, isn’t it time to start planning your ultimate pandemic payback trip? Well, when you’re ready to travel again, Goway is ready to help. Contact your favourite travel professional or a Destination Specialist at Goway (1-800-387-8850 or [email protected]) and be sure to mention “Muskoka challenge.”

GET INSPIRED

Looking for a little inspiration? Visit goway.com for a list of all the world-wide destinations Goway offers. In the meantime, here are a few of our top travel ideas to whet your appetite for travel:

DESTINATIONS TO BRAG ABOUT

Like Easter Island, Chile; Papua New Guinea; Arnhemland, Australia; Komodo Island, Indonesia; and Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda.

ULTIMATE ISLANDS ESCAPES

To Tahiti, the Maldives, Bali, or the Greek islands.

BOUTIQUE & PRIVATE CRUISING

In the Fiji islands, Dalmatian Coast, Croatia, Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, or the Galapagos Islands.

PRIVATE LUXURY SAFARIS

In east and southern Africa, in Australia’s Outback, or across India.

DIFFERENT RIVER CRUISES

On the Amazon, Mekong, and River Nile by Dahabiya.

LUXURY & UNIQUE TRAIN JOURNEYS

On the Venice Simplon Orient Express, Eastern & Oriental Express, Tsar’s Gold Trans Siberia, Pride of Africa, and the Indian Pacific.