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ItaliAbsolutely, the digital portal dedicated to promoting Italian tourism, is back at the 2025 Las Vegas Travel Agent Forum, spearheading the ItaliAbsolutely Village for the over 1,000 travel agents from the United States and Canada attending the show
The Village features some of the best of Italy, like the island of Sardinia with a rich tapestry of partners from Felix Hotels, Delphina Hotels & Resorts and Maremania DMC, to Blu Wonder DMC, and Renata Travel & Events, here to present how they showcase the unique allure of Sardinia, f r o m i t s l u x u r i o u s a c c o m m o d a t i o n s t o bespoke travel experiences While the Master Group tour operator, which proudly claims “We are Italy,” presents its wide range of customized travel packages. At the Village the DMO Visit Brescia is showcasing the rich cultural and historical heritage of the Brescia region, and representatives from the Frasassi Caves are there to tell visitors about the breathtaking beauty of this stunning underground complex, which is the Marche region’s number one natural attraction
Joi n u s at t h e It ali Asolu t e ly Vi llag e –Booths 501 to 509 - to explore exciting new synergies and business opportunities with some of Italy’s premium destinations and travel businesses
DITION
owth of tourism dinia continues egional Council efore contig with its prootional strategy which is aimed at presenting Sardinia not only as a summer destination, but somewhere that can be experienced all ear round
Emilia Roma gna ’s tourism ev olut ion:
BY
PARMA - A pioneer of tourism, starting in Rimini in 1843 and then spreading to the entire Romagna Adriatic Riviera up to 1960, when it became an emblem of the economic boom, the emilia Romagna region has a busy 2025 ahead of it, starting with the iTB in Berlin in April, then on to the ATM in Dubai and the autumn iFTM in paris, TTg in Rimini and wTM in london it will also welcome Routes europe 2026, the international aviation forum that will bring together the heads of airlines and destinations investing in the future of european air transport to be held in Rimini from 18 to 20 May 2026 events at which the region int e n d s i n t e r c e p t i n g i n b o u n d emerging markets such as the united States, poland and eastern european countries, while consolidating relations with historical markets like germany, Switzerland and Austria «Tourism has changed, - says Roberta Frisoni, regional councillor for tourism, trade and Sport - in addition to the sea tourists a r e a t t r a c t e d t o t h e i n l a n d areas, they want to get closer to art and culture, enjoy good wines and food that are steeped in tradition, immerse themselves in nature and enjoy the outdoors, both alone and with their families A diversification of products that involves many industry players, and that the Region is supporting with investments aimed at improving accessibility » At the iTB in Berlin the daily flights that will connect Munich and innsbruck to Bologna, with r e g i o n a l c o n n e c t i o n s t o C esena, Rimini, Riccione and Cattolica, from 17 April to 5 october were presented There are also new flights operated by various carriers connecting Bolo-
global engagement and local innovation
Massimiliano Sarti
m sarti@italiabsolutely com m sarti@travelquotidano com
Manuela Ippolito m ippolito@italiabsolutely com
Executive Editor PAMELA MCCOURT FRANCESCONE p mccourt@italiabsolutely com
Sales Manager BARBARA BATTAGLIONI salesmanager@italiabsolutely.com barbara@travelquotidiano.com
General Manager
DANIELA BATTAGLIONI
Cattaneo
cattaneo@italiabsolutely com m cattaneo@travelquotidano com
MARkeT ng
Ligia Hofnar
Marketing Manager marketing@ taliabsolutely com commerciale@travelquot diano com eventi@travelopenday com
STRATegy
Monica Lisi
Project Lead
m lisi@italiabsolutely com
m lisi@travelquotidiano com
Claudio dell’Accio
Destination Manager destination@ taliabsolutely com
gna to Berlin, Cologne, Bonn, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt and Mun i c h w i t h d i r e c t l i n k s f r o m these cities to Rimini and its coastal resorts thanks to dedicated shuttles
There is also an increase in the demand for cities - and not just Bologna or Rimini – that are trade fair centres that appeal for their conference and busin e s s t o u r i s m « M o d e n a a n d Ferrara are quieter and less pop u l a r d e s t i n a t i o n s , - F r i s o n i says, - but they are growing and are an enriching addition to a beach holiday, as well as being an added value for business vis i t o r s . » T h e 3 0 e x h i b i t i o n s scheduled for 2025 certainly have appeal and range from the ancient art of guercino and Correggio to the contemporary art of Ai weiwei and Maurizio Cattelan, and from Symbolism to the Avant-garde and great photography, while the major exhibition dedicated to Marc
Tourism has changed. In addition to the sea tourists are attracted to the inland areas, they want to get closer to art and culture, enjoy good wines and food that are steeped in tradition
Chagall is eagerly awaited in R a v e n n a f r o m 1 8 o c t o b e r 2025 to 18 January 2026 T h e r e i s a l s o a v a r i e d p r ogramme of sporting events. Cyc l i n g e n t h u s i a s t s c a n f o l l o w two stages of the giro d’italia Maschile on 21 and 22 May, and the giro d’italia for women from 11 to 13 July Then in autumn, Bologna will host the Davis Cup final, which is just another of the many highlights of a calendar that includes events throughout the year.
Claudiana Di Cesare Communicat ons Manager c dicesare@italiabsolutely com c dicesare@travelquotidiano com
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ADVERTISING
Address: Via Aosta, 30 – 00182
Rome T: +39 06 89 01 75 77
Via Montepulciano 5 - 20124
Milan T: 02 395 24 922
Maria Carniglia: Liguria maria carniglia@libero it cell 335 6131882
Sonia Moura: Veneto soniamoura60@gmail com cell 335 8454397
FEDERICA DE LUCA
Roberta Frisoni
Rimini
Modena
Ferrara
of culture, flavours and traditions Tuscany
FLORENCE
We want to promote not only our cities, towns and famous seaside resorts, but also the complex harmony of landscapes, traditions, craftsmanship and flavours of the region
Leonardo Marras
- After consolidating the growth of international visitors in 2024, Tuscany has launched a comprehensive promotional plan Following a coll a b o r a t i o n a g r e e m e n t w i t h Spain’s Castilla-La Mancha region, the region's efforts beyond the EU are now concentrated on the United States-a market that, in 2024, surpassed Germany in visitor arrivals In July, the U S will be represented in the Italian pavilion at the Expo in Osaka before heading to Tokyo for a series of targeted promotional events Tuscany’s key themes for 2025 are sustainable tourism, food and wine tourism, and UNESCO and family tourism, with the overall aim of promoting
areas of the region that are less involved in organized tourism «At the ITB in Berlin we promoted family tourism - says Leonardo Marras, Tuscany’s regional councillor for the economy, productive activities, credit policies and tourism - Through discussions with operators, key elements of a tourist offer have emerged that cater to all types of families while showcasing our traditional culture of hospitality The aim is to increase and improve the range of accommodation on offer, in line with new trends and contemporary sensibilities.»
Marriott Bonvoy’s “Ticket to T r a v e l 2 0 2 5 ” r e s e a r c h h ighlights how holistic experiences and the exploration of new
at the centre high-end tray, - continues f the favourite this market nt to promote es, towns and r e s o r t s , b u t x harmony of d i ti o n s , cr a ftvours that can p es that are still off the beaten track but have so much to offer Part of the promotional campaign will be dedicated to the sea, which undoubtedly remains the main attraction of Tuscany in summer » Tuscany is the number one region in Italy for the number of restaurants, and food is the main reason for travelling to visit the region which was recently named Italy’s “favourite destination for food and wine holidays ” A tourist product that is on the verge of becoming even more appealing, rewarding Vetrina Toscana with its constantly growing network of players - from producers to restaurateurs, hoteliers to sommeliers and retailers to international chefs.
« T h e 6 5 0 t h a n n i v e r s a r y o f B o c c a
550th anniversary of Michelangelo’s birth will be two pieces of the complex puzzle that identifies Tuscany as a destination with a rich concentration of culture and a strong cultural c o m m
m e n t , e x p
n s t h e councillor - Our stakeholder partners are turning these two themes into a series of proposals and experiences of major appeal »
A city of events, heritage, and multicultural Charm Naples
Teresa Armato
NAPLES - Naples took centre stage at Milan’s BIT 2025 show, with the third most visited city in Italy focusing on events and preparing to welcome increasingly diverse forms of tourism «A city like Naples - the third most visited in Italy with over 14 million tourists, and a significant growth compared to the 12 5 million of 2023 - is at the BIT to showcase the strategies and actions we are implementing to capture new targets,said Naples’ tourism councillor Teresa Armato - Naples is und e r g o i n g a n e x t r a o r d i n a r y transformation: from a city of passing traffic to a destination of international importance and charm A valuable role is played by the DMO, which allows us to develop concrete promotional activities and diversify, reaching out also to international markets,» said Armato who, together with Professor Valentina della Corte, head of the DMO, presented “Naples, a Naples is undergoing an extraordinary transformation: from a city of passing traffic to a destination of international importance and charm
New City ” Events will play a major role this year, starting with the upcoming celebrations for the 2500th anniversary of the founding of Naples, coinciding with the Jubilee Year and featuri n g t o u r s o f c o n v e n t s a n d monasteries, and a cultural programme of theatre, music, visual arts and literature
The “See Naples and Die” format will continue to promote lesserknown itineraries, helping to decongest the historic centre, and better distribute tourist flows In 2024, the city’s main inbound
markets were France, the United States, Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom Only recently Parclick.it, the leading car park portal in Europe, defined Naples as the Italian city most clicked on by Italian visitors, with a 19% increase in demand compared to the previous year and fourth behind Paris, Amsterdam and London
ended the year with 8,900,000 international visitors and from 17 May Air Canada will operate Montreal-Naples direct flights for the summer Naples Municipality has announced that work i
p a n d Capodichino Airport, and that di-
Tokyo will be launched by
BY FEDERICA DE LUCA
Teresa Armato Naples’ tourism councillor
Cities and Regions
tourism flourishes with a 9.8% increa se in visitors
CAGLIARI - The growth of tourism in Sardinia continues: «The 2024 numbers, although still provisional, are very comforting,- says the regional councilor for tourism, Franco Cuccureddu - Our survey, based on about a third of available beds, shows that last year the island's hotels recorded a 10% increase in volume, which is accompanied by a 10 7% rise in passengers at airports and a +8 6% at ports, for an overall average of 9 8% »
The Regional Council is therefore contin u i n g w i t h i t s p r o m o t i o n a l s t r a t e g y which is aimed at presenting Sardinia not only as a summer destination, but somewhere that can be experienced all year round Nature, culture, traditions and innovation are all key elements aimed at consolidating the island as a brand 2025 will be an important year with the Region strongly committed to participating in trade fairs and organizing major events «We have made more than €20 million available to support 13 major events, with the aim of attracting tourist flows even in the low season.»
Another investment is in international trade fairs «We have allocated a budget of €9 million to participate in 28 industry events, both in Italy and around the world Of particular note is the growing interest coming from the USA which last year recorded a 34% increase, confirming its position as the leading market outside Europe This is why we have decided to come to the Las Vegas Travel
Renata Travel & Events
Group S r l s
Via Antelami 2
Olbia (SS)
+393701023278
renata@renatatravel com
www renatatravel com
‘s
Agent Forum And we will also be at another event scheduled to take place in Nevada, as well as events in Osaka, Sao Paulo and Dubai »
Sardinia, a unique place
Sardinia, an island in the middle of the Mediterranean, is a unique place that offers authentic experiences throughout the year The Costa Smeralda, which is one of its many gems, was created in the 1960s by Prince Karim Aga Khan IV who, fascinated by the beauty of this stretch of coastline, decided to turn it into a paradise for elite international tourism
Today, the Costa Smeralda is renowned for its white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and luxury facilities, making it a favourite destination for celebrities and VIPS, and one of the top destinations for maxi and giga yachts from all over the world
However, the island, which boasts almost 2,000 kilometres of coastline, is not just about the sea, as the hinterland is a true paradise for lovers of nature and outdoor activities It can also boast a thousandyear-old historical heritage, with unique archaeological sites such as the ancient Nuraghe stone towers Sardinian cuisine is a journey of discovery through the authentic flavours of Mediterranean traditions, with products that reflect the excellence of Sardinia’s age-old culture
Of particular growing inte from the USA wh reco ncrease, confirm position as the ding mar outside Europ
Franc Cuccureddu
Renata Travel, founded in 2004, is a DMC and Incoming TO present throughout the Sardinian territory, which deals with tourism on the island in all its components, offering not only hotel accommodation and transfers, but becoming, over the years, a specialist in services for MICE, TAILOR MADE PACKAGES AND GROUPS; itinerant tours, daily stays, excursions and special experience in Sardinia
We chose to participate in the LVTAF because the American market is growing in Sardinia, with promising opportunities thanks to the upcoming direct flights to the island The U S market values high-quality services, and with our twenty years of experience as a DMC, we can support U.S. operators in creating authentic and customized experiences on the island
Renata Olejnicka
Maremania DMC srl Via Barcellona, 10 09124 - Cagliari Italy
+39 070 254 80 49 dmc@maremania com www maremania com
Maremania is an incoming tour operator in Sardinia, Italy Our company works since 1998, and it has become a reference point for all the operators specialized in luxury travel in Sardinia Maremania is a tour operator, travel agency, bus operator and offer a complete and exclusive product to our clients and our partners We help to discover Sardinia with its unmatched authenticity and style
Our team includes highly qualified multi-lingual professionals with wide experience in booking, DMC, Mice, logistics, excursions and tailor-made tours Some of our drivers speak English, French, Spanish and Russian
We are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to help our customers in case of an emergency.
I have been working with the US market for years, and I know the needs and preferences of American clients We are participating at the Las Vegas Agent Travel Forum to showcase our unique and handpicked offers for a broader audience, introducing our marvellous island and exploring new business opportunities. This event is an excellent platform to boost our presence in a competitive market
Barbara Cubeddu
Blu Wonder DMC Via Della Marina snc
Arzachena - Porto Cervo (SS)
+39 335 6699917
elio@bluwonder com www bluwonder com
Blu Wonder DMC is a leading Sardinian Destination Management Company & Tour Operator based on the Costa Smeralda–Porto Cervo and specialized in MICE and Luxury Services for individual clients
We are a renowned destination management company in the Costa Smeralda, Sardinia Since 1995 we have been creating unforgettable experiences: from luxury services to high-level MICE events, inviting visitors to explore the breathtaking landscapes and unique adventures of the Sardinia Blu Zone, which are increasingly in demand on the American market This is why we are at the Las Vegas Travel Agent Forum
Elio Serra
Felix Hotels
Viale Aldo Moro 333 Olbia (SS) 7891713663 sales@felixhotels it www felixhotels it
We will attend the Las Vegas Agent Travel Forum as we focus on growing markets The 30% increase in American tourists in Sardinia reflects our own growth in the U S market. The high standards of our nine hotels, all located on the Mediterranean island, our attention to hospitality, and our authentic services meet the expectations of U.S. travellers choosing 4 and 5 star properties
Paolo Manca
Delphina Hotels & Resorts
Loc Cala di Lepre - Palau +390789790092 estero@delphina it www delphina it
We are delighted to bring the authentic hospitality of Delphina Hotels & Resorts to the United States We are benefitting from a growing interest in Northern Sardinia and in international recognition like the Capo d’Orso Hotel joining the portfolio of The Leading Hotels of the World Being a family-run hotel chain in Sardinia has allowed us to become ambassadors for sustainable tourism integrated into the local area, combining the uniqueness of the Gallura with top quality hotel services.
Libero Muntoni
Felix Hotels includes a portfolio of nine owned and managed hotels, distinguished by their unique character, diverse offerings, and strong reputation - hallmarks of the company’s identity
The brand takes its name from the ancient city of Olbia, historically known as “Felix” (the happy city), reflecting both the group’s mission and its commitment to hospitality This ethos is encapsulated in the brand’s promise: “Your happiness, our satisfaction”, serving as both a pledge to guests and a source of inspiration for the more than 250 employees who contribute to the group’s success
As part of our welcoming and guestcentric approach, Felix Hotels also includes a Destination Management Company (DMC) dedicated to ensuring exceptional service for our partners’ clients With a focus on professionalism and attention to detail, we provide seamless, high-quality experiences, allowing your valued customers to fully enjoy their holiday on our “happy island”, while we take care of the rest
Delphina is a family-run hotel chain located in the North of Sardinia, deeply rooted in local traditions, with an ecofriendly soul offering an exclusive and authentic experience, genuine local food and a wide choice of outdoor spaces and activities 12 waterfront 5 & 4* hotels positioned along white sandy beaches & intimate coves with crystal clear water Close to the Costa Smeralda and the Archipelago of La Maddalena, perfect for honeymooners and families looking for a prestigious holiday with Thalasso & SPA centers, private fleet and more
Awarded as World’s Leading Green Independent Hotel Group at the World Travel awards for the commitment to sustainability For over 30 years, our project has centered around nature and authentic Gallurese hospitality, enabling guests to discover the best of Sardinia through comfort, relaxation, and unforgettable adventures, all while respecting the environment and promoting local culture
Ma ster Group Italy Dmc
experience, Master Group Italy DMC is the ideal partner for travel professionals looking to offer an exclusive, authentic, and personalized experience in Italy Our mission is to craft unforgettable journeys with passion, professionalism, and dedication, allowing travelers to experience an Italy that exceeds expectations
Each trip we design caters to an i n t e r n a t i o n a l a n d d i s c e r n i n g clientele seeking unique and immersive Italian experiences
Years of Experience: the ideal partner for travel professionals looking to offer an exclusive, authentic, and personalized experience in Italy
Thanks to our in-depth knowledge of the territory and meticulous attention to detail, we create customized itineraries that range from guided tours and city breaks to fly-and-drive packages, regular tours, train journeys, and fully tailor-made luxury experiences. Our goal is to offer personalized travel that tells Italy’s story - whether it’s exploring the art cities, discovering the uncontaminated nature of the Alps, or indulging in the country’s exceptional gastronomic traditions
Master Group Italy DMC also specializes in luxury travel, off e r i n g t a i l o r - m a d e i t i n e r a r i e s that combine elegance, comfort and superior service Each
of even the most demanding travelers Additionally, we offer curated experiences for the leisure travel market, seamlessly integrating moments of relaxation and discovery in exclusive locations to ensure an unforgettable and truly unique experience for those seeking the best of Italy
Beyond luxury travel we also
or conferences, we create professional and creative experiences tailored to each client’s needs For us every collaboration is an opportunity to build lasting and meaningful connections.
In today’s digital landscape, tec h n o l o g y i s e s s e n t i a l T h a t ’ s why Master Group Italy DMC h a s d e v e l o p e d L A B T r a v e l vanced boot enables our age reserva-
A scenic trio in the Italian Alps
BY PAMELA MCCOURT FRANCESCONE
ce of Lake Garda
143 square miles of a and with a maxih of 1,135 feet, is gest lake in Italy re of a small sea really, it is nestled between the foothills of he Alps and the Po alley To the south it encircled by rolling raine hills shaped by e a t i n g g l a c i e r s , e to the north, tong mountain ranges ose it, giving it the earance and path of ord Its shores, blesith a mild Mediterate, have charactes, castles, monastee n c h a n t i n g t o w n s abundant in monuments and steeped in history
The lake’s exceptional beauty, extraordinary views, mild climate and natural warmth and hospitality have attracted po-
e t s w r it e r s , t i s t i c cultu ties s L o r d Joyce Franz
Mission
Craft unforgettable journeys with passion, professionalism, and dedication, allowing travelers to experience an Italy that exceeds expectations
Goal
To offer personalized travel that tells Italy’s story, whether it’s exploring the art cities, discovering the uncontaminated nature of the Alps, or indulging in the country’s exceptional gastronomic traditions
The discreet charm of Lake Iseo
L a k e I s e o h a s b e e n k n o w n as Christo’s Lake since the celebrated artist chose it in 2016 for his “The Floating Piers” installation, the floating walkway of polyethylene cubes that connected the town of Sulzano with Monte Isola and the little island of San Paolo. This cultural happening brought the romantic charm of Lake Iseo, the highest lake island in Europe and the largest in all of central and southern Europe, to the attention of visitors from all over the world
t i o n s a u t o n o m o u s l y , q
, and securely Our online booking system - integrated with XML/API connections and a dedicated Extranet - ensures a seamless, transparent, and efficient process at every stage. Furthermore, our 24/7 multilingual customer support team is always ready to assist with personalized service and prompt responses At Master Group Italy DMC, we are more than just a service provider, we are your strategic partner With a commitment to quality and excellence, we collaborate closely with our partners to craft exclusive itinerar i e s a n d d e l i v
x p e r i e n c e s that leave a lasting impression on every traveler If you’re ready to offer your clients an unparalleled journey through Italy, we invite you to meet us a t t h e T r a v e l A g e n t F o r u m 2025 in Las Vegas Discover how Master Group Italy DMC can become your trusted partner in creating extraordinary Italian travel experiences
--
ling and windsurfing, paragliding and hang-gliding thanks to the constant breeze, but also a favourite with those seeking relaxation and untouched nature It has charming hotels and small guesthouses, gastronomic traditions, and a friendly and refined environment and, a little further on, towards Franciacorta, there are golf courses and vineyards producing the prestigious Franciacorta wines
The unspoiled nature of Lake Idro Lake Idro, at over 12,00 feet
pre-alpine lakes and is the ideal destination for peaceful, relaxing and extreme sports holidays, and in summer is popular for its outdoor activities as well as the authenticity of its traditions and lifestyle Nestled betw e e n t h e m o u n t a i n s o f t h e Valle Sabbia valley and the PreAlps, it lies on the border with the Trentino region and is caressed by a constant breeze that makes it an ideal choice for sailing, surfing and kitesurfing I t c a n a l s o b o a s t n u m e r o u s campsites and the mountains are an ideal training ground for those who love mountain biking, rock climbing, paragliding, canyoning and fun activities
www visitbrescia it
Lake Garda
Lake Iseo
Lake Idro
Discover the ma gic of the
BY PAMELA MCCOURT F
FRASASSI - Set in th
hills of Italy’s central region, the Frasassi C less than an hour’s dr the coastal city of Anc its international airpor
r o p e ’ s m o s t e x p a
c a v e complex, these extraordinary caverns, grottos, and tunnels invite visitors to explore their
b
w
270,000 visitors a year to this underground wonderland that has been shaped by nature over nearly 200 million years What sets the Frasassi Caves apart is not just their extraordinary scale and diversity but the ease with which they can be explored and the ever-changing
Visitors per year to this underground wonderland shaped by nature in over nearly 200 million years: the Frasassi Caves 270k
scenarios visitors encounter A visit to the caves is not an adventure for the daring few, but a
anyone with a sense of curiosity Visitors find well-maintained and well-lit walkways to guide them and, stepping into the first massive cavern, they
Not just natu
FRASA c a v e s Europe’s largest cave complex
scale of this chamber which could comfortably house Milan’s iconic cathedral Water and rock have worked over millennia to create towering stalagmites while stalactites descend from above in crystalline patterns The twists and turns of the path reveal shimmering underground lakes and deep wells, and mankind has also left its mark as inside one of the chambers is the Temple of Valadier, an exquisite octa-
The Temple of Vala in 1828, is an octagon in travertine ma a do
gonal church built in 1828 For seasoned travelers seeking a unique destination and also for families looking for an unforgettable outing, the combination of natural beauty, accessible pathways, and intriguing history makes the Frasassi Caves a must-visit site in the heart of the Marche region
ROME - Italy continues to captivate American travelers, cementing its position as a top international destination, and for 2025 it seems it is already surpassing evergreens like Greece, Bali, Costa Rica, and Japan It’s all about the allure of I ta l y wh i ch r e ma i n s un ma tch e d , with its sun-drenched beaches, history, culture, and gastronomy A growing trend fueling this surge is “roots travel,” with more Americans seeking deeper connections to their ancestral heritage Recognizing this, Italy dedicated last year as the “Year of Italian Roots in the World ” An increasing number of trans-Atlantic travelers are also opting for lesser-known destinations
t o e s c a p e t h e c r o w d s i c e n d t h e
Important tip
American visitors to Italy will need to complete the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) process before arrival The online application is simple, with quick approval and only a nominal fee, ensuring a seamless transition for U S tourists eager to explore Italy’s rich offerings
Flights, roots and hidden gems
What’s drawing U.S. tourists to Italy in 2025?
Cinque Terre are, of cour on everyone’s list (and that’s just the problem), but hidden gems like the little town of Bolgheri, with its enchanting viney a r d s a n d o l d - w o r l d charm, are quickly becoming must-visit spots fo those looking for an au thentic Italian experience Enhanced air connectivit is further boosting Italy appeal American Airline is only one of the many ca r i e r s e x p a n d i n g i t s n o stop routes to major hu like Rome and Milan, in fact this summer will see AA’s most extensive operations to Italy in its his t o r y T h e s e a d d i t i o n a l d i r e c t flights are making it easier than ever for U S travelers to experience La Dolce Vita without the hassle of multiple c o n n e c -
travel requirements are on the horizon Beginning in mid-2025, American visitors to Italy will need to complete the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) process before arrival But the online application is simple, with quick approval and only a nominal fee, ensuring a seamless transition for U.S. tourists eager to explore Italy’s rich offerings Italy is on track for yet another record-breaking year in tourism In 2024, an estimated 62 2 million international visitors were drawn by the country’s rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and world-renowned cuisine This surge in tourism is expected to continue in this, the Holy Jubilee Year, bringing an unprecedented influx of travelers to Rome - projections are for some 35 million visitors - and making 2025 another standout year for Italian tourism
l In 2024, an estimated 62 2 million international visitors were drawn by the country's rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and world-renowned cuisine
BY PAMELA MCCOURT FRANCESCONE
Cinque Terre
years of magic Gardaland Resort
unveils exciting new adventures
BY PAMELA MCCOURT FRANCESCONE
CASTELNUOVO DEL GARDAApril 5 will be a red-letter day for Gardaland Resort, which will be celebrating 50 years of magic, exci te me n t, a n d i n n o v a ti o n , a s i t launches a season full of new attractions designed to captivate all g e n e r a t i o n s T h i s e x t r a o r d i n a r y milestone marks half a century of u n f o r g e t t a b l e a d v e n t u r e s t h a t have made the park, which is part of Merlin Entertainments, a global leader in branded entertainment, one of the most popular destinations in Italy and Europe, having welcomed millions of visitors both young and old
To celebrate this 50th anniversary
Three hotels
Gardaland Hotel
Gardaland Adventure Hotel
Gardaland Magic Hotel
for a total of 475 rooms, 264 of which are fully themed
Island which will transport adven turers on an underground dark ride, featuring twenty never-before-seen scenes and unique characters, and the Dragon Empire which is inspired by Eastern traditions and will spirit visitors into a festive atmosphere And there is also the Gardaland Theatre, an innovative show where technology and creativity will blend to engage audiences
is also offering special experiences for its visitors For example, guests can enter the park for free on their birthday, enjoying a unique day filled with attractions, shows, and the company of their loved ones And the magic of this season doesn’t end in the park thanks to its themed hotels: Gardaland Hotel, Gardaland Adventure Hotel, and Gardaland Magic Hotel for a total of 475 rooms, 264 of which are fully themed
F t o transfers customized itineraries
Ciao Italy Tours has you covered
M I L A N - C i a o I t a l y
Tours, is a tour operator and DMC specialized in a
y . Founded in 2010, we offer customized itineraries, daily private and group sightseeing tours, private transfers, hotel reserva-
t
rentals, villa rentals and fully escorted tours.
We are a “one stop shop” for all travel needs in Italy, and we have a main office in New York City and staff based in Italy
We work with travel agents on all types of requests, from simple airport transfers to the most complicated customized itinerary for individuals,
small and large groups
and soul has always been a dedicated and expert team of Italy travel specialists, local tour guides, drivers, and specialized local suppliers, who have supported the company’s
You can always count on Ciao Italy Tours’ knowledge of the destination, its 25 years of experience in the Italian travel and hospitality industry and the many local connections Ciao Italy Tours can offer to travel agent com-
them to travelers
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Sole
BY MONICA LISI
F O R L Ì - T h e T r e n t i n o A l t oAdige region is one of Club del Sole’s principal medium-term development objectives
The new villages added to its portfolio: the Tenuta di Primero in Friuli, the Mimose in the Marche and the Adriatico in EmiliaRomagna
The aim being to diversify the g r o u p ’ s o f f e r , d e - s e a s o n a l i z e the product and guarantee an uninterrupted workflow for the company’s human resources «Thanks also to the support of financial partners such as NB Aurora and The Equity Club, which are minority shareholders, the Giondi family has great confidence in our expansion
s t r a t e g i e s , » s a y s A n g e l o Cartelli, general manager of the open-air operator,
«This year Club del Sole has added three new villages to its portfolio: the Tenuta di Primero in Friuli, the Mimose in the Marche and the Adriatico in Em i l i a - R o m a g n a , a l l o f w h i c h have been very well received by the market The response from clients has been enthusi-
h n e w a n d
e g u l a r he new entries have our presence in strateof Italy, in line both strategy of diversificalocation and the type ence We have noticed how in particular the Germanspeaking countries (Dach) appreciate the Tenuta Primero and its premium services which include two marinas and an 18hole golf course This demographic guarantees a 70% share o f t h e t o t a l n u m b e r o f overnights in this Friuli complex »
In terms of performance Club del Sole’s 2024 is tracking as planned in the budget Having closed 2023 with a consolidated turnover of €100 million, t
growth of more than 10% for 2024 «At present the results are in line, both as far as the domestic and international mar-
recorded strong general growth from the Dach area, as well as from Poland, Belgium, Holland and France A clear sign of the
and above all in our Full Life Holidays model, a new holiday concept aimed at evolving the format of the traditional camping village into a full-service open-air proposal »
The response from clients has been enthusiastic, with a high occupancy rate and excellent feedback from both new and regular guests Angelo Cartelli
Cibreo
urney through ainability and innovation uscan cuisine
FLORENCE - «Food has always been important in people’s lives But never before has awareness and attention to quality been so widespread,- says Giulio Picchi, CEO of the Cibrèo Group, for 35 years a leading F&B player in Florence
«Today there is a lot of checking of provenance and certification, and products are increasingly required to come from controlled or organic cultivation,- says the Florentineborn chef and restaurateur But there is also an increasing focus on offering creative variants for gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan solutions
«We are particularly happy about this, because we have always maintained that many of the tastiest Tuscan recipes are naturally vegetarian. There is also a need for more flexible food formulations that can be shaped into options that include drinks »
In the face of this evolution the profile and role of the chef is also changing «One can no longer simply be a cook because it would be impossible to transform one’s food into ideas and messages for the world,- continues Picchi. Through
Food has always been important in people’s lives But never before has awareness and attention to quality been so widespread Giulio Picchi 19 79
The year when The original Cibrèo restaurant and the adjoining trattoria were opened
his creations a chef can be the vehicle of a fundamental and necessary message for the food of tomorrow He must also be an ambassador of biodiversity, environm e n t a l a n d c u l t u r a l p r o t e c t i o n , where traditions and history reside And, in order to deliver his or her own message through every dish and every idea, he must always keep in mind the most important issues of today, from climate change to waste and resource conservation »
The original Cibrèo restaurant and the adjoining trattoria were opened in 1979 by Fabio Picchi who soon made a name for his ecologi-
cally ethical use of raw materials
His idea was a cuisine with as short a supply chain as possible and always in step with the seasons
D o w n t h e y e a r s n e w c o n c e p t s have been added and the brand has become known all over the world
Cibrèo Caffè was added in 1989 and then it was the turn of Teatro del Sale, a circus that combines culture and good food, theatre and conviviality In 2017 Picchi opened Ciblèo which fuses oriental traditions with Tuscan raw materials, and in 2021 the new Cibrèo Caffè brought a Parisian bistrot atmosphere to the historical centre of Florence
Giulio Picchi, CEO of the Cibreo Group
Cibreo restaurant & Cocktail Bar
Teatro del Sale’s foyer
Bristol winter garden by Cibreo at Helvetia & Bristol
Teatro del sale
Cibreo Caffe at Helvetia & Bristol
