Italy from Top to Bottom

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J. & C. were looking to experience a little bit of everything on their Italian adventure. They wanted to see all the major sites and experience some off-the-beaten-path locales of Italy to see where they’d like to return to one day. We put together a whirlwind trip from Rome to Florence ,Venice, Naples & the Amalfi Coast. Here’s their trip report:

First of all: Wow!! 

Trip Length

14 days is too long for us, 10 would have been better (good to know about ourselves), also probably 2 full days and a travel day if we’re visiting multiple cities, the 3rd day in Rome and Venice was too much for a quick tour. We walked about 3-5 miles per day – so I was sore the first 3 days, but better after! I really need to ramp up walking before the next trip…

Rome

We loved that we were off the beaten path away from the center of the city. We were close to the Trastevere area which we liked (where the Jerry Thomas Bar Room was – we went there for the first night in Rome) . It’s a bit younger, hipper with street music and great restaurants. We went to this area a couple of times.

We also went to Beppe and his cheeses – a small cheese shop with wine and trays of cheese and meats to eat – so much for such a small price – also awesome! We really like to eat! We also went to Alfredo’s where fettuccine alfredo was invented – a bit cheesy (pun intended) but good. 

Our bartender gave us some great places to visit: Drink Kong (didn’t get to), Oteleg Trastevere for gelato – was awesome, Trapizzino for stuffed pizza (didn’t get to), Supplizio (didn’t get to), Seu Pizza Illuminati – awesome pizza, L’Elementare – also awesome pizza, Trattoria Sora Lella was a wonderful restaurant and Taverna Trilussa (didn’t get to).

We went into a lot of churches, saw the squares and fountains. Our second day we had a tour scheduled for the Sistine Chapel and we were a bit disappointed. The tour was 3 hours, we didn’t get what we wanted to see, paintings, and saw so many statues. The crowds were crazy and you can see the chapel a lot better in photos. The Basilica was better. We walked around the Colosseum – not in- way too crowded and enjoyed some quiet time at the Non-Catholic cemetery.

Overall, there are so many cars, but it’s still a walking city. The hotel was great (Gigli D’Oro Suites), though we might want to be a bit closer to the Trastevere area, but still on our side of the city, if we ever go back. 

Florence

The trip on the train was awesome – really wished we had a bit more time here, it looked like there was a lot to do. Really would have liked to go into the Duomo. We did get to the Uffizi Gallery. The hotel was awesome!! (Hotel Cerretani Firenze – MGallery) Highly recommend. 

Venice

The train to Venice was also great. We loved Venice – probably because there weren’t any cars! Loved how each alleyway was a street that led to another square. So many restaurants and too many cheesy tourist crappy shops. Had to search to find some really nice artisan shops. 

Our hotel [Liassidi Palace] (so great right on the canal), had a tour to a glass shop on Murano, Italy, so we did that our second day, and then continued to Burano where we ate at a Michelin star restaurant Al Gatto Nero (The black cat), OMG, so good and this island is so cute and colorful. 

Again, walked around, went into many churches, saw many squares, and ate a lot of pasta. Found some nice art galleries in an off-the-beaten-path area and had some nice talks with the artists. The hotel was beautiful and so nice right on the canal. 

Naples

We really didn’t care for Naples, Italy. We should have just taken the train after all. By the time we got to the airport by water taxi, waited, got on the plane, and got to Naples, it would have been the same time just sitting and relaxing on the train. Naples is definitely a city – not a tourist area. They have touristy things, but it feels like a city. And where the cars in Rome take a back seat to the tourists, not so in Naples – they’ll run you over. Maybe if we had time to explore we would have found something to love, but at first glance- no. We did go to the artifact museum… it was fine. Feeling a bit museumed out by this time. We should have just gone down to Praiano that day.

Praiano

Wow – this place (Hotel Torre Saracena) is beautiful. The room and the staff were amazing, the views awesome, the breakfast was great. But no restaurant or bar.

We went on a wine tour that took us to Ravello (beautiful) and then further up to a winery with lots of wine and great food. 

Overall – nice, but I feel the coast is a bit limiting. In a larger city you probably have enough to do, but in the smaller areas, there’s only so much to do, and it involves climbing a lot of stairs – you definitely need good cardio and good knees. Really a beautiful area, but not sure if i’d go back. 

We’re looking forward to our next big trip in 2026. We’ll take some of the things we learned here and apply them when we start planning. 

Thank you so much, you were awesome!!

-J. & C.

Top 7 Tips for Your All-Inclusive Adventure

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Sometimes the best “adventure” is not really adventurous at all. There are times when what we really need is a relaxing stay at an all-inclusive resort, where everything is taken care of and there’s no need to move around, un-pack and re-pack luggage, or get used to a new city every few days. Here are our top tips for making the most of an all-inclusive getaway.

Know Your Priorities

Are you looking for a resort that’s family-friendly, or adults-only? Are you seeking peace and quiet, or lots of activities. A swim-up bar or an infinity pool? Narrowing down your must-haves and non-negotiables will ensure that your travel advisor can find the best resort to match your style.

Expect A Dress Code

A honeymoon couple smiling at the camera

While you might spend most of your time swimming in the pool or lounging on the beach, many resort restaurants do have a dress code. Make sure that you pack a nice dress, some slacks, a pair of closed-toe shoes, and a nice shirt or polo to ensure you can enjoy all the resort has to offer.  And don’t forget to bring a sweater or wrap for cool evenings.

[Photo Credit: Heather & Jesse – Read about their honeymoon in Tahiti here!]

Check Out The Activities

Most resorts publish a list of the daily activities (in an app, or on a paper schedule that they leave in your room). Make a plan of action for yourselves, if you like taking part in activities, classes and entertainment – or don’t, if all you want to do is soak up the sun!  

Pack Essentials in Your Carry-on

The relaxing pool at the all inclusive resort in Mexico

The only thing worse than the airline losing your luggage is arriving at your all-inclusive resort without your swimsuit, sunscreen, and hat. Make sure to pack those essentials in your carry-on suitcase, just in case. That way you can start your vacation with or without your luggage. And don’t forget your reusable cup to keep your drinks cool on the beach!

[Photo Credit: Maria & Tom via Shared Adventures – read about their all-inclusive adventure here! ]

Try the Local & Regional Specialties

Try to branch out and enjoy some of the regional specialties, even if you’re typically more of a meat-and-potatoes person. All-inclusive resorts will make an effort to offer all different types of cuisine, so ask your waitress and bartender about the local specialties, what the area is known for, and what they do best. Check in advance whether your resort requires dinner reservations, and what time the various restaurants open and close, and bring some in-between snacks for the kids.

Bring the Local Currency in Cash

At most resorts, gratuities are at your discretion. Getting small bills in the local currency ahead of time is great for the staff at the resort. Plus, you can use it when you take excursions outside of the resort. But if all you have is USD, most resort staff will happily accept that.

[Photo Credit: Ann via Shared Adventures]

a swim-up bar at a glistening blue pool in mexico

Use the Hospitality Suite

Many resorts provide a hospitality suite so you can freshen up before your afternoon flight departs. Ask about it when you arrive. That way, even if you have to check out at noon, you can spend a few more hours at the pool or beach. And, then shower and change before heading off to the airport.

An All-Inclusive Mexico Adventure

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Maria and Tom wanted a relaxing week-long adventure somewhere sunny and beachy. We knew the perfect place to relax was an all-inclusive on the Riviera Maya in Mexico. Here’s their report card for their rejuvenating adventure:

Ann planned a week getaway for me and my husband! I truly wanted to rest and rejuvenate after a busy year of planning a wedding and changing a job.  She recommended a couples retreat in the Riviera Maya, Mexico! Right in our budget and an all inclusive resort, as we requested.

We took a nonstop flight from Boston to Cancun and then had a private transfer with AMSTAR from the Cancun Airport to the Blue Diamond Luxury Resort and Spa.  Our travel day went a bit haywire with many delays and we arrived 12 hours late to the resort.  Exhausted but excited we entered this dreamy spa-like atmosphere under a large palapa. It felt like the entire resort was floating on top of decks with a jungle like atmosphere. 

The Suite

Our junior suite had a large king size bed, with what felt like a living room in the front of it.  We also had a large walk-in closet and another room attached to it that was our bathroom! Double sinks, a large vanity area and dressing area with a humongous shower with 2 large shower heads one on each side of the shower area! We also had a cold plunge tub outside of this area! The resort was PERFECTLY set up for our retreat in Mexico. 

We had full access to the spa, which had indoor pools with pool beds in the water, a sauna (which was too hot to use for us but it was JULY!), and another outdoor pool for us to use.  It also had a “quiet area” with beds to lie on, and a fountain of water trickling as you lay on the beds and read! The Spa amenities, massages of all types and skin care was available for an extra charge, however we did not use these services. 

We traveled throughout the resort either by bicycle (which my husband used) or by golf cart.  We simply had to use the phone to request the golf cart service or tell a resort staff member and they requested the golf cart for us. 

Tips for the Day Trip to Tulum

We did take a day trip to Tulum, and the Cenotes. The ancient ruins in Tulum were amazing to see, but I think it was hotter than hell! Thank God we brought water with us and wore our swim shirts and swim bottoms as it was truly a scorcher. We finished the tour and ate at the marketplace outside of the ruins at a restaurant that the tour guide recommended.  It was delicious and authentic, but costly! I did some shopping around the marketplace in the larger stores but did not buy anything from the vendors on the sides of the stores as I got a bit spooked out by them shouting at me and calling me over to their stands.  

We left Tulum and headed to the Cenotes that Mexico is famous for.  My husband loved jumping into the Cenotes, while I took photos, as I was scared to jump or even slide into the water. 

Amazing Food

We ate at the Aquamarine hotel for breakfasts and lunches, which is adjacent to 2 infinity pools. Along the side of the pools there were large king sleep beds draped in towels and large lounge chairs. Perfect for relaxing, and of course an open bar. 

We also had our meals at the Ambar restaurant.  To say that this food was 5 STAR is an UNDERSTATEMENT! I have never ever had such delicious food at an all-inclusive resort as we had our week at this resort!

Along with our dinner meals, we had entertainment! A saxophonist, violinist, pianist and a singer entertained us! We also had a live Mariachi Band and a Mayan dance troupe entertain us one evening! 

Every meal was prepared with delicious spices, served by kind waiters and waitresses who were willing to do anything to make our meals enjoyable.  Sushi, homemade breads, authentic Mexican food, Caribbean food and even a good ole American hamburger were available for us.  The food was top notch. And we doubt we will go anywhere else that we will get such high quality delicacies!

What I appreciated most was that this resort was totally different from anything else I have ever experienced. I RELAXED! so did my husband! Which in itself is remarkable! 

Overall

A few downfalls for the resort were the following: Hurricane Beryl had just landed in Mexico 2 weeks prior, so they had to close one of the 3 restaurants. And the beach erosion from the hurricane was clearly visible.  This did not affect our trip but was devastating to see.  Also, the resort had air conditioning inside the bedrooms but not inside the bathrooms. Lastly, it seemed that the resort had become a bit run down with knobs for faucets not working, chipping paint and finishes around the pool area, and broken furniture. This may have been from the force of the Hurricane.

All in all I give our resort food an A+, Room B+ ( would have been higher if there was air conditioning in the bathroom). The resort itself an A (Loved the couples only, live entertainment geared towards adults, excellent service). The Tulum Tour was an A, Marketplace shopping was a C+ (too expensive for what we bought, but was afraid to go elsewhere). Finally, Cenotes was a B+.

Thank you so much Ann! Hopefully, we will talk soon about our next adventure!

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You provided excellent guidance for us. I appreciated that you really had us think about what was most important to us when we were selecting the right cruise – and not to totally focus on what other people had to say. THANK YOU for helping to make this a memorable trip for our family! It really was a trip of a lifetime!

– Clare and Mark (family cruise to Alaska)

The level of service we experienced was out of this world (and we did NOT make it easy on Ann). We weren’t quite sure where we wanted to go, when we would be able to go, or what “vibe” we were going for. After asking us some key questions (what we liked, didn’t like, why, etc.) Ann helped us narrow down our trip details and planned the honeymoon of our dreams. She helped book some of our excursions, answered some emergency questions while abroad and was always available/willing to help. I think it’s safe to say we won’t be using anyone else for future travel planning – Ann is a rockstar!

– Carli (Italy and Spain)