Few websites inspire in the way that An Affair With Italy does. A shared love of Italy and all things Italian was the catalyst for renowned photographer Julie Adams and designer and writer, Emma Scott to merge their passion and create a site for sharing anecdotes and stories of Italy from around the world. The result is a sophisticated online immersion into one of our favourite destinations. Join Julie and her family on their summer Italian adventures – her stunning images, her travel hotspots and her packing tips.
All photography by Julie Adams
BK: What is your Italian hotspot for 2016?
JA: I don’t think there is any better holiday than an Italian summer and for me this summer is all about the South! Right now I am loving the South East corner of Sicily. It is like travelling back in time….the little Ape’s (authentic three-wheeled mini vans) full of green beans, the old fashioned gelato trucks, the passionate grocery sellers on the sides of the streets, the architecture, the delicious food (both relaxed and Michelin starred), the winding streets, the crystal waters and the sense that you are still discovering. Must see’s are:
- Scicli (where the famous “Il Commissario Montalbano” is filmed)
- Modica (for amazing chocolate)
- Ragusa
- Noto
- Ortigia
- Siracusa and…
- spend the day at the very Italian Agua Beach Club in San Lorenzo…
I don’t think there is any better holiday than an Italian summer and for me this summer is all about the South! Julie Adams – An Affair With Italy
Italian hotspot – Scicli, SE Sicily
An old-fashioned gelato truck in Scicli
The beautiful streets of Scicli
Authentic ape in Sicily
Marzamemi
I am loving the South East corner of Sicily. It is like travelling back in time. Julie Adams – An Affair With Italy
BK: Where will you be travelling to in 2016?
JA: Next on my wish list is definitely a summer holiday on the Salento peninsula in Puglia..I have only touched on this area and I am desperate to spend some time here. If my husband has the reigns it will be skiing in the Dolomites! If we are staying closer to home you will find me on the beach at Seal Rocks.
BK: What inspires you when you are travelling?
JA: Escaping from my everyday world into another. The change in culture, the food, the colours, the light and the sense of freedom. But more than anything else it is the people I meet along the way. Travel is addictive!
BK: What is your ultimate travel tip?
JA: Don’t always think that it is better to see a lot. Sometimes staying in the one place and really immersing yourself in the way of life can be more rewarding. It’s the time I’ve stayed still long enough to make friends that have been the most memorable.
BK: Tell us about one of your favourite hidden Italian locations – somewhere off the tourist track only known to locals.
JA: Like many people I adore Naples and the Amalfi Coast…but rather than stay in the thick of it all I love staying in the hills in Massa Lubrense. The views are magic and the local beach at Marina del Cantone in Nerano is so beautiful! The little local beach club of La Perla couldn’t be more authentic (don’t miss the unbeatable zucchini pasta) and it’s perfectly located to visit Capri, Positano, Sorrento etc.
Views of the Amalfi Coast
La Perla beach club, Nerano
Positano summer
Capri
Like many people I adore Naples and the Amalfi Coast…but rather than stay in the thick of it all I love staying in the hills in Massa Lubrense. Julie Adams – An Affair With Italy
BK: What is in your capsule travel wardrobe?
JA: Being a photographer and also travelling with kids I have spent years travelling with too many bags so to me travelling light is the ultimate luxury. I start with the shoes and when in Italy it is always flats as tottering along those winding streets in heels never works! I pack a comfortable pair for the day and a statement pair for the evening…and usually squeeze a trainer in (which I never wear…good intentions!) I stick to a colour palette so it is easy to mix things up and I always slip in one little dress I love (just in case) and a few bits of fun jewellery to transform things from day to night.
BK: What can you not leave home without?
JA: For me it’s a scarf, sunglasses and of course my camera! Bird and Knoll scarves are heavenly – the soft cashmere blend, the generous size – complete luxury perfect for layering in the evenings and comfort on the plane. Sunglasses – my current favourites are the classic ‘Victoria’ by L.G.R . Camera – usually one that takes up most of my hand luggage!
For inspiration for your next Italian adventures and all things Italian visit An Affair With Italy
