July is nearly over, and it’s got me thinking about July of last year—my part-vacation, part-work-trip, entirely-fun-travel-experience is one I won’t soon forget. If I had to do it all over again, I wouldn’t change a thing. And if you would like to do it, here’s a shortened itinerary of my favorite experiences!
Rome
- Arrive in Rome. The city is so rich in history, but also heavily modernized. It’s the best possible marriage of old and new. Check out some old-school barbershops. Spend a day or two taking in the culture. Drink copious Aperol spritzes.
Capri
- Jaunt south to Capri. Book a boat ride around the island—it’s the best way to take in the splendor and drama of the island’s geography. If you’re lucky, they’ll serve fresh seafood and capers on board! Drink in the sights, smells, and textures of Capri’s gorgeous beaches and rock formations.
- Visit Carthusia in Capri. This store has been around since the 1940s, but their perfumery techniques date as far back as the 14th It’s a beautiful old stone building, you can see the lab where they develop fragrances, and there’s a barbershop on site. Sample some different colognes and buy a Mediterraneo reed diffuser to bring back home!
- For dinner, head to Ristorante Paolino. The Paulino's fry (fried pasta with meats and cheeses) was so good I literally cried. It’s located in a field of lemon trees, and branches laden with fruits wind through trellises above the dining tables. It’s ineffably picturesque.
- Wrap up the day sitting on the Piazza Umberto, taking in the night air, people watching and enjoying a glass of limoncello.
Sicily
- It’s a new day, time to head south to Sicily! It’s not just my ancestral home; it’s also where the concept for my Italian Collection was born.
- Feeling peckish? Caffè Sicilia in Noto, Sicily is co-owned by Corrado Assenza (who you may recognize from the Netflix series Chef’s Table). They make what I firmly believe is the best cannoli of all time. The almond granita is a house specialty.
- Head to Ortigia Sicilia. This adorable boutique specializes in perfumery and soaps. They also have amazing home fragrances! Pick up some Lime di Sicilia soaps to bring home as gifts or souvenirs.
- Ready for a super indulgent meal? Regina Lucia is a real Treat Yourself dining experience overlooking the Duomo Square. As you would expect from a Michelin starred restaurant, the food was incredible—the ravioli, the seafood, the gnocchi, the WINE!! But the atmosphere is truly what sets it over the top. A perfect, luxurious end to a perfect trip!
Ciao!
XO,
Jordan
