I just returned from a trip I would never suggest to any client, a trip with many one night stays. I never unpacked, and never hung up a thing. Surely this was a 2020’s “Grand Tour," just like the English writers Byron and Shelly boasted in the late 1800’s. For a variety of reasons, I found myself in a position to have appointments in a few of the crown jewels of Italy’s “paese,” from Bellagio to Positano, Montalcino to Portofino, and with a dose of Barolo and Truffles in the beautiful Langhe hills with snow-capped alps in the distance. I visited many of the highly requested tourist sites in a flash and in every place I went were crowds. Oh to be honest, the crowds were there because of the “ponte” - that is the bridge which makes a two day weekend an extended holiday. Italians and travelers were out en-masse enjoying the warmth, views and food in unison.

I travel for business and while it is still a pleasure, I travel mostly to explore ristorante, hotels, and to meet guides and suppliers to present to our clients everything that is new and happening in and around Italy. So, what is happening? Italy was extremely busy even in November. Every hotelier mentioned they were “fully booked." I could not even see any other room categories than the one I was staying in.  Many hotels mentioned that their June 2023 was already booked at 40-50-60%.

Italy is hot - both figuratively and literally speaking, as day time highs ranged in the 70’s. I packed both a bathing suit and a down jacket along with a umbrella and hiking shoes. All of the aforementioned items were used. 

I am advisingyou, now if you wish to go to Italy in 2023, then plan in advance right now. Those “hot” spots I mentioned will be filled up if you wait until March to commit to your dates. Oh, and one more thing: whatever your budget is for those spots, add another 30% to it. Prices have gone up all over the country, especially near any body of water. Portofino, Bellagio, Positano, Santa Margherita Ligure, Como, Siena, Montalcino, and Verona are calling. Time to think about your 2023 family plan.  Now is the time!