STAR COLLECTOR: RIVIERA & ITALIAN GLAMOUR

Surround yourself with luxury in beautiful Monte Carlo, one of Monaco’s four quartiers and a jewel on the Mediterranean. Located just off the southern coast of France, Monte Carlo beckons you with glittering pebble beaches, old-world charm, and stunning architecture. Visit the iconic Casino de Monte Carlo, a paragon of the beaux-arts architectural style, to try your hand at blackjack, craps, or roulette, or tour the Palais Princier de Monaco, the twelfth-century palace where Monaco’s royal family resides. If you visit in May, be sure to attend an exhilarating Formula One race during the Monaco Grand Prix. From lavish French cuisine, to designer shopping along the Boulevard des Moulins, to exquisite botanical gardens, Monte Carlo has plenty of extravagant activities to capture your attention!

Portofino, Italy, is a jewel on the Italian Riviera, famed for its colorful buildings, glamorous yachts, and charming harbor. This picturesque fishing village, with its pastel-colored houses that cascade down to the emerald-green waters, exudes a quaint yet luxurious atmosphere. The Piazzetta, the heart of Portofino, is a lively square where visitors can sip an espresso or enjoy fresh seafood while watching the elegant boats bobbing gently in the harbor. This is a perfect spot to start exploring the narrow streets filled with boutiques, artisan shops, and vibrant galleries that have captivated artists and writers for decades. Portofino's allure has long drawn celebrities and jet-setters, making it a playground for the rich and famous. Still, its serene beauty and relaxed pace make it a haven for all types of travelers.

One of Portofino’s must-see attractions is the Castello Brown, a hilltop fortress dating back to the 16th century that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Ligurian Sea. This historic castle, once a strategic military outpost, is now a museum that provides insight into the region’s history while serving as a venue for art exhibitions and cultural events. A walk up to the castle through lush Mediterranean gardens is rewarded not only with history but also with some of the most stunning vistas of the Italian Riviera.

For nature lovers, the Portofino Regional Park is an outdoor paradise. With its rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and verdant forests, the park offers numerous hiking trails that wind through olive groves and maritime pines, leading to secret beaches and stunning viewpoints. The trail to San Fruttuoso Abbey, a hidden gem only accessible by foot or boat, is particularly popular. Nestled in a secluded bay, this ancient Benedictine monastery is a mesmerizing blend of history, architecture, and nature. It is also home to the famous submerged bronze statue of Christ of the Abyss, which has become a pilgrimage site for divers from around the world.

Fun fact: Portofino was originally called "Portus Delphini," or "Port of the Dolphin," due to the large number of dolphins that inhabited the surrounding waters. The name was bestowed upon the village by the Romans, who were enamored with the region's natural beauty. Today, while the dolphins may be a rarer sight, the charm and elegance of Portofino remain undiminished, making it a timeless destination on the Italian Riviera.

Amalfi, Italy, is a gem nestled along the world-famous Amalfi Coast, where dramatic cliffs meet the shimmering Mediterranean Sea. This enchanting town, once a powerful maritime republic, is now a beloved destination for those seeking a blend of history, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. The heart of Amalfi is its bustling Piazza del Duomo, dominated by the stunning Amalfi Cathedral. With its striking Arab-Norman architecture, bronze doors from Constantinople, and beautifully ornate interior, this 9th-century cathedral is a must-visit for anyone intrigued by Italy's rich historical tapestry. Climbing the 62 steps to the cathedral’s entrance rewards visitors with a commanding view of the lively square below, filled with quaint cafes, boutique shops, and the joyful hum of daily life.

Just steps away from the cathedral lies the Chiostro del Paradiso, a peaceful cloister dating back to the 13th century that showcases Moorish-influenced architecture and houses the tombs of Amalfi’s nobility. The adjacent Museo della Carta offers a fascinating glimpse into the town’s history as a medieval center of papermaking, where visitors can witness traditional techniques still in practice today. Wandering through Amalfi's labyrinthine streets reveals charming piazzas, vibrant ceramics shops, and delightful spots serving limoncello, the zesty lemon liqueur made from locally grown lemons. For those with a sweet tooth, indulging in a delicious sfogliatella, a shell-shaped pastry filled with ricotta and citrus, is a must.

Amalfi also serves as a gateway to the natural wonders of the Amalfi Coast. The Valle delle Ferriere is a serene nature reserve just a short hike from the town center, where visitors can escape the crowds and immerse themselves in lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and ancient ruins. The valley is named after its historic ironworks, some of which still stand today. For those who prefer the sea, Amalfi’s pebble beaches, such as Marina Grande, offer the perfect spot to bask in the sun or take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters. Boat tours along the coast provide a unique perspective of the region’s dramatic cliffs and hidden coves, including the famed Emerald Grotto, known for its dazzling green waters.

Fun fact: Amalfi was one of the four great maritime republics of Italy, alongside Venice, Pisa, and Genoa. During its peak in the 10th and 11th centuries, Amalfi established the Amalfi Tables, the earliest known maritime code that governed the Mediterranean Sea. These regulations were so influential that they remained in effect until 1570, demonstrating Amalfi’s historical significance as a formidable maritime power. Today, this legacy lives on, not only in its historical sites but also in the town’s enduring spirit of adventure and discovery.

Reggio Calabria, located at the tip of Italy’s toe, is a city where ancient history and natural beauty converge in spectacular fashion. One of the city's most renowned landmarks is the Bronzi di Riace, two magnificent bronze statues from the 5th century BC that were discovered off the coast of Riace in 1972. These statues are celebrated as masterpieces of Greek art and are housed in the National Archaeological Museum of Reggio Calabria.

Beyond its archaeological treasures, Reggio Calabria boasts stunning natural vistas, particularly from its Lungomare promenade. Often cited as one of the most beautiful waterfronts in Italy, the Lungomare offers panoramic views of the Strait of Messina and Mount Etna. The promenade is perfect for leisurely strolls, allowing visitors to soak in the sea breeze and marvel at the picturesque scenery.

The city's culinary scene is another highlight, with a focus on traditional Calabrian dishes. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample ’nduja, a spicy spreadable salami that is a local specialty. The city’s vibrant markets and local eateries provide a genuine taste of Calabrian cuisine.

For a touch of local culture, visit the Cathedral of Reggio Calabria, a stunning example of Norman architecture. The cathedral’s intricate mosaics and historic charm reflect the city’s rich cultural tapestry. The best time to visit Reggio Calabria is from April to October when the weather is warm and ideal for exploring the city's many outdoor attractions.

Fun fact: Reggio Calabria is home to the Gambino Vineyard, where you can explore local winemaking traditions and taste some of the region’s finest wines.