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Author: The Smalls

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The Riva Lounge at Gritti Palace

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The Riva Lounge at The Gritti Palace isn’t just a terrace—it’s an invitation into an icon of Italian style. Overlooking the shimmering Grand Canal with a front-row view of the Santa Maria della Salute, this chic hideaway channels the golden age of Riviera glamour, inspired by the legendary Riva yachts moored below.

Designed in collaboration with Riva, every detail—teak decking, aquamarine upholstery, chrome finishes—evokes the sleek, sexy lines of a classic yacht. It’s as if you’ve stepped off a vintage Aquarama and straight into an aperitivo dream. Sip a perfectly chilled Negroni or a crisp glass of Franciacorta as gondolas drift by and church bells chime softly in the distance.

By day, it’s a refined sanctuary for coffee or a long, leisurely lunch. By sunset, the lounge becomes a glowing jewel above the water—an elegant, cinematic moment come to life. Whether you’re arriving by boat or from your suite upstairs, the Riva Lounge offers a rare blend of intimacy and indulgence that captures the soul of Venice itself.

Campo Alla Sughera

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Campo alla Sughera epitomizes passion and innovation in winemaking. With meticulous vineyard care and a blend of traditional and modern techniques, they craft exceptional wines that reflect the terroir. Certified organic and committed to sustainability, the estate preserves the land for future generations. But it’s the people behind the wine who truly shine, sharing a deep passion for their craft and a commitment to excellence that makes Campo alla Sughera stand out.

Michele Satta

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Michele Satta is a renowned winemaker and is known for his exceptional wines. His flagship blend, “Piastraia,” is a Bordeaux-style blend praised for its rich flavors and aging potential. Michele also produces single varietals like Sangiovese and Vermentino, each showcasing the region’s terroir. With critical acclaim and international recognition, Michele Satta’s wines are a must-try for wine lovers seeking the best of Bolgheri.

Anna Tasca Lanza Cooking School

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The Anna Tasca Lanza Cooking School is a renowned culinary institution located in Sicily, Italy. Named after its founder, Anna Tasca Lanza, the school is situated in the picturesque Tasca d’Almerita estate in the heart of the Sicilian countryside. The cooking school is dedicated to preserving and promoting Sicilian culinary traditions while incorporating sustainable and locally sourced ingredients.

The school offers a range of cooking classes and workshops that provide participants with a hands-on experience in traditional Sicilian cooking techniques. Led by expert chefs and culinary instructors, the classes cover a variety of topics, including pasta making, bread baking, seafood preparation, and the art of making traditional Sicilian desserts.

One of the unique aspects of the Anna Tasca Lanza Cooking School is its focus on using seasonal and local ingredients. Participants have the opportunity to explore the estate’s extensive organic gardens, orchards, and vineyards, where they can learn about the region’s produce and even gather ingredients for their culinary creations.

Beyond cooking classes, the school also offers wine tastings and seminars to complement the gastronomic experience. Participants can sample the estate’s award-winning wines and learn about Sicilian viticulture and winemaking traditions.

In addition to its educational programs, the Anna Tasca Lanza Cooking School hosts special events, such as food and wine festivals and cultural exchanges, which bring together chefs, food enthusiasts, and experts from around the world to celebrate and share their passion for Sicilian cuisine.

The school’s picturesque setting, emphasis on sustainable practices, and dedication to preserving Sicilian culinary traditions make it a truly exceptional destination for food lovers and those seeking an immersive and authentic culinary experience in Sicily.

Lini910

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Founded in 1910, the Lini Winery is a family business in its fourth generation. They are proud and committed to present its new generation of Lambrusco to the world. The Lini Winery has distinguished itself with its wide range of Lambrusco and its years of hard work and research. Much has changed in the wine world over the last 100 years, especially for Lambrusco. Undeniably, Lini910 is in the forefront of its great comeback.

Riva Privée

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Set amidst the snow-covered peaks of the Dolomites, Riva Privée celebrates its 180th anniversary at high altitude in the prestigious Cristallo Resort and Spa. While the Riva Privée was previously hosted as a temporary space in the renowned Stube 1872, it will make its grand return in 2026, coinciding with the reopening of the newly reimagined Mandarin Oriental Cristallo.

During its earlier iteration, the Riva Privée offered an exquisite menu crafted by Chef Marco Pinelli, blending traditional Cortina cuisine with flavors that evoke the sea. Guests were transported into the magical world of the Riva legend, surrounded by decor inspired by the timeless elegance of the iconic Riva yachts.

The reopening in 2026 promises to elevate this unique dining experience further, as the Cristallo transitions into a luxurious Mandarin Oriental property. Guests can look forward to breathtaking views, refined culinary offerings, and the unparalleled charm that has defined Riva for nearly two centuries. Stay tuned for the next chapter of this legendary collaboration in the heart of the Dolomites.

Bellavista Winery

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Respect for tradition on these sacred grounds located on the Bellavista Hill looking out over Lake Iseo is recognizably unique. With timeless style and class, you can create a memorable experience. In addition, you can discover the purest “Franciacorta” wines.

Mekong Eyes

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Indulge in an extraordinary experience with a luxurious overnight cruise aboard Mekong Eyes, offering an intimate journey through the enchanting Mekong Delta. Forget the rush of day trips and embrace the ultimate in relaxation as you glide gracefully through the region’s lush landscapes and serene waterways.

Unwind on the elegant sun deck, surrounded by the vibrant greenery of jungle-lined canals and the charm of floating markets. Witness the timeless beauty of the Delta as locals go about their daily lives, all framed by breathtaking scenery. Mekong Eyes transforms your exploration into a sophisticated escape, blending natural beauty with unparalleled comfort.

Di Majo Norante Winery

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The Masseria Di Majo Norante is located in the countryside of Molise, north of the Gargano promontory. Grapes are picked by hand from ancient vines such as Aglianico, Montepulciano, Sangiovese and Tintilia. Production is kept at low yields to insure the best quality possible. In addition, the Di Majo family is dedicated to practicing environmentally sound agriculture.

Azienda Agricola Cianfagna Winery

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From the vineyard to the bottle in the lovely mountains of Molise, the Cianfagna family has a deep respect and love for their land. Over the years, family traditions have been enhanced and innovated. For instance, the level of sulfites present in Cianfagna’s wines is less than that allowed in organic farming. The result is high quality wine from grapes that are exclusively produced by the family.