A recent article in La Repubblica reports on Tuscany’s youngest and most surprising city.  Livorno, a port city with stunning seaside views, is known for its earthy citizens and its gastronomic delights – especially the local fish soup, caciucco.  While not sharing some of the artistic history of other Tuscan towns, its historic center, criss-crossed by canals and delightful to explore, is reminiscent of a small fishing village.

This article in La Repubblica discusses an itinerary visiting Palladian sites and villas in Vicenza and its surroundings in the Veneto.  While the winter can be cold, it is a perfect time to spend a few tranquil days in this area to see its historic monuments – many designed by the renowned 16th Century architect.

This article in The New York Times’ travel section makes the acqua alta and the damp rising off the canals sound very attractive!  Winter visitors can feel like locals, see the sites minus the hordes, wander around and actually enjoy getting lost in this most atmospheric of cities.

In a New York Times article from the “36 Hours In…” series Rome is high-lighted.  There are good suggestions mixing the well-known and the new.  Interesting new bars, gelaterie and restaurants are suggested as are visits to the contemporary arts museum Maxxi and the recently refurbished Palazzo Borghese galleries.  For a short visit to Rome, especially if you’ve been there before, these are great ideas.