Usually the flight from London to Milan and then Milan to London is the easiest part of my route to the Furniture Fair which begins in New Zealand.  This year, however, the volcano in Iceland with the unpronouceable name changed that.  Initially we were all a little bit blase about the impact of the ‘dust cloud’ on [...]

The Tuscan town of Siena is best seen entirely on foot. In just two hours, the boho-chic Cinzia Mariotti, who clambers with you up and down medieval towers in high-heeled rope wedge sandals, can point to the evidence of the moment the 1348 Black Death struck - a half finished arch; then guide you through [...]

Photos by Peter Hunt
Ah, the glories of Italy’s Amalfi coast. Of course, it is overrun with pleasure seekers in August, so visit in May, June, July or September. What’s also good news is there are places to stay that are affordable, even with the robust Euro and others that are, frankly, worth pushing the boat [...]

After reading Peggy Guggenheim’s autobiography I was determined to visit her Palazzo turned art gallery the next time I went to Italy. And it didn’t disappoint - her collection was diverse and set in what was her very elegant residence in Venice. It is not often that you can get this close to [...]

Achille Castiglioni was one of the most important industrial designers of the 20th century. I was lucky enough to be shown his Milan studio by his daughter and to see his collections of postcards, stamps and set squares.

Story by Karen Walker
Photos by Mikhail Gherman
The Italians have tricked us all into thinking that Capri is a small island off the Amalfi Coast but I’ve discovered the truth. It’s actually a Disneyland ride bringing you all the greatest Southern Italian clichés in one confined space. Walt Disney built it in the 50’s [...]

Rome is one of the most magical cities on earth - a city that should be on every person’s list of must see places. There’s so much to see here and, unlike many cities, every one of the main tourist attractions is incredible. This is one of those rare cities where you can follow [...]