Tag: covid

3 days in New York

Posted on by Luca Oliveri

3 days in New York for the long weekend of 8 December represent an ideal mini-vacation to unwind.

Manhattan Bridge – Luca Oliveri

New York, “the big apple”, “the city of dreams”

Also known as  “the big apple” or “the city of dreams” New York is one of the most desired cities in the world, one of the metropolises where every dream can come true, especially after the lighting of the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center.

A full week is the ideal time to visit it, but if we only have 4 days, what to see?

Arlo Nomad – Manhattan – Luca Oliveri

Day 1 – Brooklyn

I would dedicate the first day to Brooklyn, simply walking through the streets or along the river, the East River, admiring the Manhattan Bridge and the Brooklyn Bridge. A mandatory photo is the one that can be taken from the intersection between Front St and Whashington St.

That point is definitely Instagrammable and therefore you have to prepare to find some people there, but with a little of patience you can surely take the perfect photo for your social networks

For lunch, I chose Seamore’s Dumbo, where I enjoyed an excellent sandwich with poached egg and avocado.

In December, it gets dark quite early and at around 4.30pm the sunset sets everything on fire. All that remains is to take a nice walk on the Brooklyn Bridge, relaxing by walking along this iconic New York attraction, take some photos with the Manhattan skyline as a backdrop and then return to the mainland and head towards the Brooklyn Bridge Park area.

There, the view of the Manhattan skyline is impressive and when the sun sinks to the horizon and everything turns orange and then purple it seems to be in an alien landscape. It will be one of the best views of New York, along with the one from Rockefeller Center you will see the day next.

Brooklyn Bridge – Luca Oliveri

Day 2 – Rockefeller Center and Time Square

I spent the morning taking some pictures in the beautiful room with a view of the Arlo Nomad hotel where I stayed, and then going out for a walk towards Time Square and having lunch at the Italian restaurant ‘Da Tony’ near there.

The best time, in my opinion, to climb the ‘Top of the Rock’ is another time, the sunset. Tickets cost $50 at that time of the day. Climb around 4pm to enjoy the sunset at the top at 4.30pm. The view of the Empire State Building from up there and of the concrete jungle that is Manhattan is stunning.

If the view is dizzying and might scare someone, I experienced a pleasant feeling of serenity. Certainly, once you get off, in the dark and after the city lights had already lit up, the memory that you will carry in your heart will be unforgettable.

Don’t miss the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree and maybe an ice skating

Top of the Rock – Rockefeller Center – Luca Oliveri

Day 3 – Central Park and the MOMA

Central Park is a must to do. In December the trees lost most of their leaves, but on a sunny day a walk through the park restores your energy. There is also the option of ice skating with a skyline view for around $20.

The MOMA is the Museum of Modern Arts. I begin by saying that it is a famous museum, a must-visit, but it is strange. Modern art is always something on the edge, so you should certainly not expect the classic works of art present in another very famous New York museum: the MET.

Where to sleep?

There are fantastic hotels of every level in New York. One of the prerogatives of the city is obviously the feeling of being inside a concrete jungle. Why not choose a room with a great view of New York? I recommend the Arlo Nomad hotel. Upon your arrival, ask for one of the King Sky rooms on the higher floors to enjoy a splendid view of the city from the glass window. It is one of the 10 best room view hotels in New York.

Arlo Nomad – King Sky Room – Luca Oliveri

The Wanderlust Syndrome

Posted on by Luca Oliveri

Ever heard about the Wanderlust Syndrome?

It’s a strong impulse to self-development through experiencing the unknown, facing unforeseen challenges, understanding different cultures, lifestyles and behaviors.

Wanderlust syndrome is much more than just wanting to go on vacation, though. We all have that. It’s more that desire that comes from a “need” to go beyond our comfort zone, a strong passion for discovery and travel.

The word “wanderlust” comes from the German words wandern (to hike) and lust (a strong desire).

These hardened travelers spend most of their time reading travel guides and looking for flights and hotels on the internet. They love watching documentaries about exotic or unknown places and spend a lot of their money on travel.

Haleakala – Maui – Luca Oliveri

Is Wanderlust Syndrome about genetics?

According to some experts, this adventurous spirit isn’t just a trend. It is said that it’s actually in our genes. Scientists have even pinned down a specific one: DRD4-7r, a receptor for dopamine, the pleasure hormone. Here it is: “the travel gene.”

David Dobbs, a researcher for National Geographic, thinks that this gene “makes people more likely to take risks, explore new places, ideas, foods, relationships; and generally embrace movement, change, and adventure.”

In addition to the frequent need to travel, people with this gene are also bold and creative. They are the kind of people who try to understand other cultures and lifestyles. They can do almost anything conducive to personal growth.

There’s a whole world waiting to be explored

We know what’s out there waiting to be discovered. We’ve read all the travel blogs, watched the nature shows, drooled over Instagram photos. The worst thing is to understand and to know that there is something out there we haven’t seen yet and not being able to explore it.

Stairway to Heaven – Oahu

Traveling is a necessary part of life

Traveling is a necessary part of life, and it is the best way to relax after a long day. It all comes down to having a diverse range of life experiences. Traveling is an excellent way to alleviate tiredness, anxiety, and depression. It also positively impacts one’s mental and physical health, most of all in this post covid period.

We don’t have a house full of things; instead, we have a passport to fill with stamps. Let’s use this to build memories all over the world

What’s Wanderlust Syndrome for me?

It’s the feeling of being alive. It’s to explore unique places near and far. I can’t stop searching for these magical, even unknown places around the world. Sometimes I have the eyes of a five-year-old kid, and this is impressive.

I’m inspired to travel by “a compromise”. What I mean is that we live frenetic lives with frantic schedules most of the time. This is a significant source of anxiety for me! So everyone should find a way to lower the bar and break the monotony: I discovered my way through travel.

Hunting of emotions

Traveling entails attempting to get ourselves outside of our comfort zones!

Think about spending seven days without the internet in the middle of the wilderness, facing such a narrow and dangerous road, only to arrive at the most beautiful beach on the planet, to spend New Year’s Eve around a fire with old and new friends.

Think about a trail of 3922 steps rising on the ridge of a mountain in the wilderness of Hawaiian mountains.

Think about being on a small island on a small lake in the middle of nowhere for 48 hours and living the essential moments of your life.

Think about the Namib desert and the chance to sleep there under a sky full of stars.

Think about the opportunity to live your own holiday, spending your time at your own pace.

These beautiful feelings should inspire us not to be fearful of new opportunities while also assisting us in finding a commitment that will undoubtedly surprise us in learning something new and unique about ourselves.

Travel Bucket list for summer 2021

Posted on by Luca Oliveri

There is no cure for wanderlust. However, no matter how many places you explore, there are always some experiences waiting for you.

Will the way of traveling change in the post-covid period?

The restrictions caused by the pandemic have created new expectations in people for summer 2021. Therefore, we will look for something out of the ordinary to face personal challenges and, also, to avoid crowds and to live life experiences. So which will be the bucket list for this summer?

Here’s my top 5 Summer 2021 travel bucket list

You don’t have to travel across the globe to experience a magical adventure. So now is the time to let loose and make sure you work on the little things that keep yourself happy.

1. Go on a road trip

From the safety and comfort of your own ride, you can see so many incredible places and experience your road trip at your own pace.

Whether you decide to take a trip across the United States by car, stopping in a motel stage by stage, or you prefer to drive a campervan and stop for the night only where your instincts tell you, a road trip will undoubtedly take you through incredible adventures.

I drove my vintage Volkswagen campervan out of the ordinary and found my personal gateway on the Algarve coast for one of the most romantic sunsets. And, at the end of your journey and discovery, it changes you!

Algarve – Vintage Camper – Siesta Campers

2. Go camping

Planning a camping trip begins with the desire to get outdoors. Pick a date, find the right place, prepare your gear and head out.

We’re more connected through the power of social networks than ever, also in this post pandemic period. No matter where you are, you can make a difference. Have you ever spent one or more days entirely in touch with Nature listening to its sounds? You should try this experience camping into the wilderness, enjoying life and its simple moments like building a tent spending the night under a sky full of stars.

Spitzkoppe – Namibia

3. Go hiking

Which has been your fearless challenge?

Hardergrat trail is not just a trail, it’s a thrilling journey where you will have mental ups and downs, especially when you see all that stretches out ahead of you. It looks impossible, but it’s not, it’s just very, very long. There, at first stop on the ridge, I rested with that amazing view over the mirror lake. Is there a better way to experience life in the post covid period?

Hiking is freedom, effort, conquest. Summer is undoubtedly the best time to enjoy the spectacle of nature by climbing mountain ridges, in the green, in the silence.

Hardergrat Trail

4. Sleep on the summit of a volcano

Do volcanic islands have an energetic imprint? At the summit of Haleakalā it’s easy to forget where you came from as you look out onto what feels like another world. At dawn, I was suspended in a soft sea of clouds in one of the most magical moments of my life, full of freedom and peace.

Sleeping on top of a volcano is not easy because it is freezing at night. I remember I was wearing 3 sweaters. But I also remember that the sky was flooded with glittering stars and the Milky Way gave meaning to the word “magic”.

Haleakala volcano – Maui

5. Freeze your time and go to experience a 48hours ”detox” on a private island

A small cabin on a small island in the middle of nowhere. Here is good to be alone and contemplate things and have time to think about life, choices and what you’re here for. It’s where the time is longer and life is deeper.

Think about being in the middle of nowhere with someone so precious for you. All this is so special and unforgettable! I experienced one of the best things of my life just here, in Sweden, and I miss these moments so much now. Freedom, Beauty, the Craziness of being alone in the wilderness…This is why I love life!

Kabin Sweden – 48 hours detox

3 days in the Trulli region

Posted on by Luca Oliveri

In this post-Covid pandemic period, you will enjoy your private and exclusive holiday, away from crowds with your partner, your family or your friends.

Luca Oliveri at Incanto d’Itria Resort – Drone view

A Corner of paradise in the Trulli Apulian region

A few kilometers from Locorotondo and Alberobello, Incanto d’Itria Resort is a unique and suggestive location. It’s a corner of paradise surrounded by wonderful olive trees and Mediterranean scents where you can rediscover your intimate contact with nature.

To get to the trulli you need to reach central Apulia, a magnificent area nestled between the Murge plateau and Salento, in a triangle of beauty between the provinces of Bari to the north, and Taranto and Brindisi further south. The so-called “Valley of the Trulli” or “Riviera dei Trulli”, the beautiful Itria Valley, which gushes with sun-kissed villages, golden beaches, fragrant scrub and centuries-old olive trees.

Sunset, garden, fruits

I took an early morning flight to enjoy the day wholly

My flight from Milan landed at Bari airport early in the morning and the procedures to exit from the airport and rent the car has been quick.

From Bari, I spent 1-hour driving across the apulian country and arrived at the resort just before luch time. We were welcomed by the owner, Giuseppe, we got an espresso seated in the main veranda and started talking about the surroundings and the story of the resort.

c

The Trulli have been restored and now they revive once again

In 2017, Giuseppe and his brother Francesco were literally fascinated by a group of ruined Trulli and bought them. With great sacrifices and a lot of work, they brought them back to life, taking advantage of the experience of the trullari masters. Two years later they made this wonderful place revive once again opening the doors of the houses to suggestive experiences, where you can share the smells of spring, the sounds of summer, the colors of autumn and the silence of winter, in a personal way that can only happen there.

There are 3 trulli in the resort: “Trullo Magnifico”, “Trullo Incanto” and “Trullo Divino”. Each one has its own private kitchen and living room, bathroom and bedroom. Two of them are connected and are ideal for a family. Instead, Trullo Divino, which is like a fancy sweet-box, is separated by the other two trulli.

Luca Oliveri – Trullo

Incanto d’Itria is your private and exclusive resort

You can share the resort with your partner or your family or your friends. The resort will be at your exclusive use.

Between the brightly reflecting sun and the ocher of the ground, I had the sensation of reflecting myself in the clear water of the pool in complete relaxation and welcomed by the lush greenery of the grove and gardens surrounding the resort.

If I could relax reading or indulge in the pleasure of tranquility during the day, when it was time for sunset, the feeling of peace enjoying a fresh aperitif was priceless.

At that moment, the color of the sky, wisely painted as the sun dipped behind the horizon, created vibrant shades of pink and cobalt

The swimming pool in a sunny day

One week of relaxation, food, unique places to visit away from crowds in this post-Covid period

I suggest you to spend at least 1 week in the region and enjoy your holiday chilling at Incanto d’Itria the whole day, maybe, drinking a glass of Chardonnay white wine at the pool at sunset or simply by visiting the numerous surrounding touristic or seaside areas. Most of all in this post-Covid pandemic period you will enjoy your private and exclusive holiday, away from crowds with your partner, your family or your friends.

Ostuni – the blue door

Traveling in the post COVID period

Posted on by Luca Oliveri

The restrictions caused by the pandemic have created new expectations and new priorities in people for 2021. What does not change is the desire for holidays, for travel. The desire to leave never sets!

How we will travel

But will the way of traveling change?

Will we be looking for something more intimate and less crowded?

In this period of recovery, in the post covid, by booking their first vacation, people want something out of the ordinary to face personal challenges and, also, to avoid crowds and to live life experiences.

Here are the destinations to live unforgettable experiences

In my Instagram guides and in the blog we often speak about this new concept of travel:

It’s not only luxury hotels or trips of a thousand and one nights.

These types of “life experiences” I’m talking about are those that will be experienced once in a lifetime.

They will leave unforgettable moments and memories, though sometimes we need a little bit of spirit of adaptation.

We are talking about experiences that offer alternative tourism, such as living 48 hours with your partner in a cabin on a small otherwise deserted island in the middle of a lake in Sweden. Or sleeping in a tent under the starry sky of the Namibian desert or of the summit of Haleakala volcano on the island of Maui.

Or, again, face a dangerous multi-day trek in the virgin Kauai, to reach one of the wildest and most fascinating beaches in the world

Over the clouds – Haleakala summit

Post covid holidays: when the tourist becomes the protagonist of the trip

It no longer matters to choose a famous destination.

These experiences can be found everywhere, you just need to live them with your heart.

It is the intimate contact with nature or, sometimes, with ourselves, the protagonist of the travel.

For example, I had my most intense experience climbing the 3922 steps of the Haiku Stairs, on the island of Oahu in Hawaii. There I found that I did not climb the ridge to the summit just to enjoy the magnificent scenery, but gradually I saw myself reflected into nature and I experienced a great feeling of well-being.

Haiku Stairs – Stairway to Heaven

Traveling to rediscover yourself

A compromise inspires me to travel; what I mean is that we live frenetic lives with frantic schedules most of the time. This is a significant source of anxiety for me! Every one should find a way to lower the bar and break the monotony: I discovered my personal way through travel.

Traveling also means leaving your ‘comfort zone’!