Custom Italian Travel Planning for Unforgettable Moments

Ciao!

 

Do you ever visit a grocery store when you're visiting a new country?  It's one of my favorite underrated activities!  

 

In Italy, the grocery stores are an actual cultural experience.  You'll find regional specialties, unique flavor combinations, and honestly some of the best souvenirs to bring home to friends and family that fit easily in your luggage (unlike a giant ceramic platter).  Snacks make incredible gifts because they're authentically Italian without being the obvious “I went to Italy” souvenir that everyone expects.

 

Allow me to introduce you to some of MY favorite Italian snacks that might just convince you to make your own supermarket run while you're running around otherwise sightseeing. 

 

🧡Pocket Coffee and Pocket Coffee - Espresso to Go- a chocolate with actual espresso inside and a mini shot of chocolate/espresso with a straw for sipping ie. jet lag game changers

 

🧡Plum Cakes - the perfect portable breakfast or afternoon treat

 

🧡Fonzies - basically Italian Cheetos but without all the unnecessary additives and food dye.  Highly recommend in a bowl to accompany your aperitivo beverage of choice

 

🧡Pan di Stelle cookies - I can't explain the hold these have on me, but they are amazing

 

So next time you're in Italy, pop into a Conad, Coop, Esselunga, Despar, Carrefour or the neighborhood grocer and grab a few of these to try.  

 

Better yet, take a chance on something else that looks interesting to you!

I'm exploring the idea of launching Arco Destinations' first Hosted Small Group Trip in 2027: a week in the Dolomites for women who love Italy!

 

Ten women with days built around guided hiking, wine tastings, food experiences, spa time, aperitivo, shared meals, laughter and plenty of room to simply enjoy Italy.

 

This is Italy the way I've always wanted to share it: slow, connected, and hyper local. Details are still coming together, and I want to gauge early interest and preferred timing before moving forward.

 

If this sounds like something you'd love to be part of, please take a minute to complete the Trip Interest Form and stay informed of updates.

 

🛌There are a few of my faves on this list!

 

🥺Sad news from my favorite sight in my favorite city

 

🚾The great Italian public potty problem

 

🚆Train travel, but make it part of the experience

It's Negroni Week!!!  If you've been following me on Instagram, you definitely already know.  If you've missed the content because your algorithm is hiding me, go check out my series this week about my favorite negronis in hotel bars across Italy.

 

If you're a negroni lover too, and don't yet have this book, it's a good one. 

Sometimes you just need to get out of your own house, especially when your contractor tells you to leave for a few days when things are about to get really messy.  

 

My big reno wrapped up a few years ago, but local friends are camping out at The George for a few days this fall while theirs is in full swing.  

 

This local spot in Montclair is the perfect choice for keeping your local routines running smoothly while also providing an elegant stay to combat the chaos at home.

Like doing your own hotel research?

 

Our new client booking portal puts the search in your hands. Compare rates, browse properties, and book it yourself, all in one place.

 

Once it's booked, it's treated exactly as if we'd booked it ourselves: we'll confirm directly with the hotel, flag your upcoming arrival, and confirm any perks attached to your rate.

 

 

New to Arco Destinations? We'll need a few details before setting you up with access. Complete this form and we'll get you started.

Want to start planning YOUR next Italian vacation?