Cesca Rampley

Culture vulture from London with a passion for all things foodie. I’ve lived abroad for almost 10 years, floating from one magical place to another. I studied literature at university in the eclectic city of Brighton, and since then, I’ve been hooked on keeping up with what to do, see, and, of course, eat. I’m a firm believer in appreciating and learning from local cultures, travelling responsibly, and giving new things a go with an open mind and a healthy dose of curiosity. I try to share useful tips, local insights and a bit of honest know-how, so you can make the most of wherever you find yourself.

Cheap houses in Italy by the sea: real coastal life on a budget

Cheap houses for sale in Italy by the sea don’t usually sit in glossy resort towns or right on the beach, and that’s part of the trade‑off.

Romantic Italy off the beaten path: quiet villages and proposal spots

Some of Italy’s most romantic places don’t announce themselves loudly, even around Valentine’s Day, when attention gravitates towards the obvious names.

Cheap property in Italy for sale under 100k

Italy still has a surprising amount of property under €100,000, largely thanks to depopulation, inheritance sales and slow-moving local markets.

Most romantic places in Italy

What makes Italy stand out around Valentine's Day is the variety of ways that romance plays out in the country. Cities feel cinematic and lived‑in, coastal areas lean into simplicity and movement, and places shaped by time rather than tourism tend to leave the deepest impression.

Best romantic getaways in Italy for couples

Italy works well for romantic getaways for couples because it lends itself to slowing down.

The Aeolian Islands in Sicily

The Aeolian Islands sit off the northern coast of Sicily, scattered across the Tyrrhenian Sea like a chain of volcanic stepping stones.

Tourist Tax in Italy 2026: city rules and rates

A tourist tax, often referred to as a city tax, is a small fee levied by municipalities on visitors staying in paid accommodation.

Top 1-euro house schemes in Sicily right now

Sicily sits at the centre of Italy’s 1‑euro house movement.

Private islands for sale in Italy

Private islands in Italy sound wildly extravagant, but a handful do quietly pop up on the market now and again. Most are steeped in history, come with planning strings attached, and are far more about stewardship than flashy luxury.

10 best events to see during Venice Carnival 2026

Venice during Carnival is a bit like walking onto a film set: masks everywhere, music echoing off the canals, and something happening in every square.