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.

Best things to do in Monza: off the beaten racetrack

While mainly known worldwide for its Grand Prix, the list of things to do in Monza goes far beyond the racetrack. Step away from the circuit and you’ll find one of Europe's largest parks, home to a grand neoclassical palace that gives a real sense of the region's aristocratic past.

Italian passport ranking: global standing & travel feedom explained

A passport is essentially a key that unlocks doorways to countries across the globe. The more powerful the passport, the more doors it opens without the hassle of a visa.

10 authentic Italian desserts you probably haven't tried

When you think of Italian desserts, your mind probably jumps straight to Tiramisù, a creamy Panna Cotta, or maybe a scoop of Gelato. They're certainly famous for a reason, but the world of Italian sweets, or dolci, goes so much deeper than the usual suspects.

Healthcare in Italy for expats: guide to the SSN & private cover

Moving to a new country always comes with a lengthy to-do list, and sorting out healthcare is often near the top. When the destination is Italy, a place with a certain reputation for paperwork and bureaucracy, this task can feel particularly daunting.

Top Italian dessert wines: sip on vin santo, moscato and more

There's a special moment at the end of a good Italian meal, when you're full and happy but not quite ready to leave the table. This is often when a small glass of something sweet and aromatic appears. In Italy, dessert wine isn't just an afterthought; it’s a cherished part of the dining culture.

More than tiramisù: 6 classic Italian chocolate desserts

When you think of the most popular dessert in Italy, it's easy for tiramisù and gelato to steal the show. But Italy has a deep love for chocolate, and its dolci often showcase it in a way that’s wonderfully rich and not overly sweet.

What to do in Udine: sights, squares & food

Udine is located in Italy's north-eastern corner and is one of those wonderfully authentic cities that often fly under the radar. Expect handsome Venetian squares and a laid-back pace of life, all nestled between the Alps and the Adriatic.

Living in Udine: the guietly good life in Friuli

Udine is one of those understated places, full of elegant Venetian architecture and quiet, cobbled squares, but without the tourist crush you get elsewhere. It's tucked away in Friuli-Venezia Giulia, a region in Italy's far northeast that borders both Austria and Slovenia.

Living in Bologna: real life in ragù land

Located in the Emilia-Romagna region, Bologna is a city of real substance. With a population of just under 400,000, it feels lively and important without the intense tourist crowds you might find in Florence or Rome.

Living in Parma: life beyond the deli counter

Sitting squarely in the Emilia-Romagna region, this gorgeous city, home to just shy of 200,000 people, has a name you’ve probably heard, even if your mind doesn't jump to the city itself If you're pondering living in Parma, you'll soon discover it's a place where life moves at a lovely pace, steeped