We were a sucker for hostels in castles: charming, historic, stunning views. However, their hilltop locations generally take some effort to access. Vuillermin Castle Hostel in Finale Ligure was no exception. Half way up the 321 steps, lugging my heavy pack, completely out of breath, I momentarily questioned this choice. But as usual, once we arrived it was totally worth it. Five star views at a cut rate price. On the Italian Riviera no less. I loved sitting by the window gazing at the bright Mediterranean blue ocean and rugged cliffs. Other than the 321 steps, our stay was very relaxing. We hung out with a Canadian (Heidi) who had…

Genoa was all about the pesto. According to my guidebook, anywhere else was not* the same. * to be said with a slightly upturned nose. Well then. We had to try it. So we had lunch in Genoa. Luck would have it, the Ligurian city was on our route from Milan to Finale Ligure. Quick stop at a large port city, navigating slightly sketchy Medieval streets, for pesto you can’t get anywhere else. Totally worth it. The whole city was under construction with dust, dirt and leering construction workers. It was days before the opening of the Genoa International Expo 1992 to celebrate 500 years since Cristopher Columbus happened upon…

I shimmy my tush between two tables to my seat. The small tables are snug in this Pizzeria. The restaurant is packed. We are in Milan, fashion capital of the beautiful, sophisticated Italy. The guy sitting next to me is hot. Holy crap. Sarah is sitting across from me. Her knowing glance tells me she has noticed too. Should we introduce ourselves? We order a bottle of wine first. He is sitting so close. Like, right beside me. There is about 6 inches between our tables. I take a long gulp of the red wine. It’s warm. Another sip. Spicy. I wonder if he is a backpacker like us. I…