Could there be anything more glamorous than going to Milan, Italy? The fashion, the food and the culture are world-renowned here. A person could lose numerous hours shopping and strolling the street Via Monte Napoleone with stores like Gucci, Prada and Versace lining the street. The architecture will also keep your jaw on the floor. If you visit the Piazza del Duomo then you can’t miss Milan’s main cathedral church. It is massive, overpowering, gothic and beautiful all at the same time. Be sure to have your shoulders covered if you plan to go inside any of the cathedrals.

After a few solid days of shopping and eating, hop on a beautiful 4 hour train ride to Cinque Terre for a little bit of adventure and R&R. The train ride is amazing as you come up on Cinque Terre because you come out of a dark tunnel to see this amazing view of the sea and a bunch of colorful homes stuck on the cliff that are as colorful as pastel Easter eggs. Cinque Terre (means the five lands) is known as a mini Italian Riviera. Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore are the 5 villages that make up the town. Each little town is beautiful and different in their own way.

Monterosso is the most populated and resort-like beach town of all the villages. At this village, you can sit on the beach all day under a colorful umbrella eating gelato (Italian ice cream) and just enjoy the picturesque views of the Mediterranean Sea. If you are looking for a more active trip, then you can hike between each of the villages. Each hike between the villages is for every level, but the most common and easiest hike is between Manarola and Riomaggiore. This hike is known as Villa Dell' Amore (Lovers Walk). Although I was not with the love of my life on this hike, the views were breathtaking. The hike should only take about 20-30 minutes, but I couldn't help but to stop and enjoy the view (See top picture above). For the true daredevils, you can actually watch and jump off some of the cliffs in Manarola. I was too chicken to try it, but watching is just as fun!

If you want to stay away from the crowds and tourist I would highly recommend staying in Riomaggiore or Manarola. I took my chance by staying at Cinque Terre Holidays Hostel, and I lucked out. The hostel was right on the cliff, so when you open the window to your room it is right at the water (See bottom picture above). It was almost too perfect to be true. The room was extremely clean and the staff was very helpful with tips and advice on how to get around.

Staying away further away from Monterosso is not a big deal since getting to each location is considerably easy. You have the option of train, ferry or shuttles, but I highly recommend the ferry in order to take in the full beauty of the Mediterranean. Something that is unique about Cinque Terre is that private cars are not prohibited there. So enjoy the great outdoors.

As far as food goes, there is an abundance of it, especially fresh seafood. I enjoyed an excellent meal at La Lanterna in Riomaggiore. The views are to die for and the staff knows how to make their patrons feel like they are eating at their own homes. My dinner ended up lasting over 3 hours with appetizers, salad, pasta, dessert and amazing white wine (which they are known for it in the area). It is great place to go eat and just enjoy life.

Don't be afraid to speak to the locals. Most of them are very friendly and know English or can understand some Spanish. After a visit to Cinque Terre, you will really learn the true meaning of la dolce vita (the sweet life).

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