Undiscovered Italy

I was fortunate enough to be invited to experience a new concept and a new company, Magari Tours. They are launching in Italy and offer handcrafted, authentic escorted tours that provide a deeper, more immersive, and truly authentic experience. It's all about uncrowded, locally-run hotels and eateries, exploring off-the-beaten-path locations where tourists don't usually venture, supporting local communities, and delving into undiscovered Italian regions.
We flew into Milan where we were greeted by our wonderful tour host Wendy. We then travelled north to the Lombardy region, enjoying breathtaking views on our way to the hillside village of Rota d’Imagna. Upon arrival, we were warmly welcomed by the hotel owner Giampiero and his family; it became evident that this was truly a family-run establishment! The hotel boasted lovely accommodations with incredible views overlooking the valley. After settling in, we had the pleasure of participating in a cooking lesson where we learnt how to prepare the delicious local pasta dish casoncelli - accompanied by some delightful local wine, of course!

In the following days, we visited cobbled Bergamo, Lake Iseo, had a wonderful lunch at Stala, visited some superb wineries and agritourism farms. Everyone we met was passionate and incredibly welcoming. This is truly a unique experience; if you love Italy and want to discover something new, support local communities, and leave a positive impact on your stay, then this is for you. Please let me know if you would like a brochure or more information. The first tour 'Essence of Lombardy' departs on 8th October for 6 nights all-inclusive from £1995 per person!

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EXPLORA

By Khetal Khandwala • September 22, 2026

EXPLORA What if the most inspiring hotel isn't a hotel at all? I stepped onboard EXPLORA III in Southampton this week, and having now seen the ship for myself, I can understand why Explora Journeys is trying to do things differently. I have to say, I was impressed. The easiest way I can describe it is a luxury hotel at sea, but one where your view changes every day. EXPLORA III is a large ship, but it doesn't feel like a large cruise ship. There is a huge amount of space, plenty of places to sit quietly or enjoy a drink, and a sense of calm that I haven't experienced on many larger ships. With fewer guests than you would typically find on a ship of this size, it feels spacious rather than busy. And then there is the food. There are some fantastic restaurant choices onboard, with a really good variety of styles and settings. Dining feels like part of the experience rather than simply somewhere you go because you need to eat.

AmaWaterways Tracy's review

April 2, 2026

AmaWaterways Tracy's review

Tracy discovers Living Better for Longer at ZEM Wellness Clinic

March 9, 2026

Tracy discovers Living Better for Longer at ZEM Wellness Clinic ZEM Wellness Clinic, Altea A personal visit to one of Europe's newest and impressive medical wellness retreats. Living better for longer starts here. I have just returned from my first personal visit to ZEM Wellness Clinic Altea and it has set a very high benchmark for medical wellness in Europe. Set in the hills above Altea with mountains behind and the Mediterranean stretching out ahead, ZEM combines advanced medical diagnostics with a holistic philosophy of health and longevity. But what struck me most is how seamlessly everything works together. This is not simply a spa retreat or a medical clinic. It is a place where you can understand your body properly and begin making meaningful changes.