Traveling is one of those things that you either like or don’t like. Traveling all different countries lays within my family. My granddad traveled all over the place He has been to so many places, it’s incredible. The same thing applied to my mum. She started traveling when she was young, too. So I guess you could say I inherited from them. My first ever trip was to Bulgaria when I was only five years old. We had been going on holidays every year since until I moved to Ireland when I was nineteen.
To be perfectly honest with you, I am not the biggest fan of history. I do like a bit of a background of the country I am heading to but I wouldn’t dig deep in the history. For example I wouldn’t visit museums. I just don’t find them appealing. What I do find appealing in other countries is their landscape and their culture. What do they do eat, how do they live, etc. I find that fascinating. I moved to a foreign country after all myself.
Italy, the shoe of Europe as I call it. It has been on my travel bucket list such a long time. So far I haven’t managed to go and visit… YET. I still have enough time to go and even if it has to be in my retired years. Italy is easily a destination for the whole family too though. Part of Italy is the Tuscany which is beautiful. There are probably a million reasons why you should visit Tuscany but I listed nine of my own.
Italian food is delicious
I mean without question, who doesn’t like pizza or pasta? I eat a pizza once a week. It’s my favourite go to meal that is quickly made but yet oh so delicious. But let’s take the main course aside for a second. When going to Italy, I read that you’ll have to try a gelato. I love any kind of ice cream and I don’t mind trying out a complete unique flavour. There are plenty of gelato shops around with the most popular ones being located in Florence.
Visit the Leaning Tower Of Pisa
Even if it’s just a few photos in front of the Pisa tower, it’s a must-see for the mos obvious reason. You don’t see a leaning tower everyday. Located only an hour by train from Florence it’s an easy reached destination. It is recommended to visit in Spring or late Summer when it’s not too hot.
Summer of Festivals
Once it’s June. the festivals in Tuscany begin. The town of San Gimignano will take you right back to the middle age in mid June each year. With plenty of entertainment it brings you right back. I remember in my own hometown in Germany they used to have middle age tournaments on during the Summer. I could watch it for hours because it was just so fascinating. As a child you were to think of Robin Hood.
Wine tasting
I have to admit I am not the biggest wine drinker, however I wouldn’t miss out on visiting Chianti to do some wine tasting and drive around to take in the breathtaking landscape of rolling green hills and vineyards. Lots of photo opportunities for sure.
Tuscany is movie central
Many movies, or parts of movies were filmed in Tuscany such as Gladiator, Hannibal and even Twilight.
Picturesque Beaches
There isn’t any shortage of sandy beaches along the coast of Tuscany. However the most beautiful beaches are located in the Maremma.
Have a Thermal Bath
Most towns offer thermal baths but it’s much more fun to go out and explore the wilderness and find your own free thermal bath. The best ones are located not too far from Saturnia. They are well known under the name Cascate di Mulino. I mean look at them… you want to jump right in.
Go Scuba Diving
Another thing that has been on my list for a long time is to go scuba diving. I know it’s not for everyone if you are not a big fan of water/open water. I have to admit, I don’t like swimming in open water without knowing what’s underneath me. However I looove swimming and anything water. The Mediterranean Sea can be so beautiful.
Visit Pistoia Zoo
Of course we can’t forget the kids. After a lot of sightseeing and culture they may want to have a change of scenery. Pay the zoo a visit with its over 400 animals. Kids love zoos and it’s never a wrong decision.
Meet Pinocchio
Oh how I loved watching Pinocchio as a child. I don’t think I have ever watched it with any of my kids (adding this to the list of my tasks). The park is located in Collodi, province of Lucca which is only about half an hour drive from Pistoia. So the visit can be easily connected with the zoo before or after.
What would be on your travel guide if you were to visit Tuscany, or maybe you have already been?
