Looking for some fun and an exclusive gay Amalfi Coast guide? We’ve rounded up with our Alessandro five latest and must have reasons why you are missing out if you really don’t book now your next trip to Amalfi Coast.

Amalfi Coast: the gay guide of Gay Friendly Italy

Tell us a bit about yourself. Where are you from, Alessandro?

Ciao! I am originally from Atrani, the smallest village of the Amalfi coast and also one of the smallest in Italy. I grew up there. Then when I was 19 I moved to Rome for my first job experience in the hospitality industry. At the moment I spend the summer months at home on the Amalfi coast, because I am currently a freelance hiking guide, and the winter months in Milan to finish my studies in tourism, management and territory.I love hiking, in fact I decided to turn my biggest passion and hobby into a job, and I’m so happy I did it.

What makes Amalfi Coast so special for the LGBT+ travelers’ community?

The Amalfi coast is the quintessential of the mediterranean beauty in terms of glorious nature and the perfect mixture with the local architecture, historical buildings , gorgeous villas, terraced gardens…so even though this is not officially an LGBT+ destination, you absolutely cannot miss it.

Where do you think that the gay-friendly soul of this place can be found?

I particularly recommend visiting the coast for the LGBT+ travellers’ community because you guys have to know that the coast has been a great source of inspiration for so many of our community in the past: Gore Vidal lived in Ravello and so did the ballet star Rudolf Nureyev in Positano. The neighbouring Capri as well was the mediterranean refuge for so many gays and lesbians coming from northern Europe between the 19th and 20th century.This was in fact an area of the continent where you could live your homosexuality without being imprisoned, and even if you could not show it off in public, still there was an underground movement of freedom of expression. So book your flight immediately and live your italian dolce vita fantasy!

Which is the best gay-friendly place you felt more comfortable while taking pictures?

At the moment there is not a gay-friendly venue (yet) on the coast, but definitely you can feel the vibes in Positano and Praiano. I love particularly Praiano because it’s really beautiful: you have amazing rooftop cafes and restaurants, it’s less crowded than Positano, and the people over there are the most gay-friendly of the coast.

What do you love most in this magical place?

When I’m at the One Fire Beach in Praiano I feel really good and relaxed, with the music at sunset while enjoying a prosecco with my friends. Or when there is a show in Positano with the drag mother of the Amalfi coast, Tiffany Romano.

What are your best three places?

Mother nature has been my source of energy and my refuge while growing up and not feeling accepted because of my homosexuality.This is also why I love hiking and why it’s a true way of life for me: because before coming out as gay, when there was no one I could talk to about who I really was, walking in my mountains surrounded by breathtaking sceneries has given me so much strength and hope to overcome my fear of being judged. Literally the concept of walking and deciding my own path of freedom has been so important in making the person I am today.This is why I highly recommend at least one hike to all of my LGBT+ brothers and sisters. So here’s my list of three favorite places of the coast you cannot miss: Villa Cimbrone in Ravello which is the absolute heaven on earth; the Valle delle Ferriere (Valley of the Mills) hike, which is the beauty you would not expect on the coast; and last but definitely not least the Cafe Mirante in Praiano, one of my favorite rooftop cafes where you can just look at the scenery, taste their amazing drinks and feel on top of the world.

Best Town to Visit on Como Lake

Among the most beautiful natural wonders of Northern Italy there is no doubt that Lake Como is the most interesting and fascinating.Lake Como has always been a place full of magic and has enchanted artists and travelers over the centuries. On the shores of this lake stayed the French writer Flaubert, Gioacchino Rossini, Giuseppe Verdi and Vincenzo Bellini. The latter on Lake Como wrote one of his best-known works: “Norma”. Here was born also the Italian physicist Alessandro Volta, inventor of the first generator of electricity, the battery.

7 Towns to Visit Once in Como Lake

But these are just some of the reasons why it is worthwhile to stay on Lake Como. Wild nature, paths for hikers, excellent lake cuisine and the luxury of its stunning villas. We take a look at the best things to do and see once on Lake Como.

Como

Como is the largest city overlooking the lake with many restaurants, bars and a shy gay life that animates the night. Once here be sure to visit the Tempio Voltiano, the Duomo and the beautiful promenade along the lakefront. Sit down in one of the many bars and make a typical aperitif to enjoy one of the most beautiful views of the lake.

Bellagio

Bellagio is probably the most famous village in the whole Lake Como. In recent years it has also become a destination for luxury tourism thanks to all the Hollywood stars who have decided to spend their holidays here. Starting with George Clooney, true king of Bellagio. Take some time to spend a few hours here and visit its beautiful medieval old town.

Colico

Colico is the perfect city for water sports lovers. In addition to the classic swim in one of the many beaches along the shores of the lake you can also practice windsurfing. The water and the sand of Colico make this town the perfect place to try this sport.

Varenna

In Varenna the village winds through a network of small streets. The houses are reflected in the water and the atmosphere is truly unique.

Nesso

The historic center of Nesso is located at the point where the two rivers Tuf and Nosè come together and form a waterfall that takes the name of Orrido di Nesso. This small village was founded by the Celts and then by the Romans. Those who come here fall in love with the beauty of the place and its amazing natural landscapes.

Cernobbio

Cernobbio is one of the most romantic places in Italy. Once here follow the small pebbled streets and visit the magnificent villas like Villa d’Este that directly overlooks the lake. It will seem to be in a dream.

Tramezzo

One of the nicest things to do here is to get lost in the huge gardens of the historic villas of the lake. The small town of Tremezzo, near Cadenabbia and Menaggio, is the place of Villa Carlotta, known for hosting one of the most beautiful gardens in Italy. 

Anyone touring around the world wants the city to possess the attributes of uniqueness. That uniqueness hard to find anywhere in the world. The cities of Sicily have a lot of this features.Here you can find incredible UNESCO sites, Greek and Roman heritage and beautiful beaches on the other. All mixed with mild warm temperature and incredible street food.

Best Beaches to Visit Once in Sicily

With all this beauty in only one island It’s hard to make a list of the most beautiful beaches of Sicily but we did it! We list the towns and beaches to stop at on a tour round this beautiful island.

Isola Bella – Taormina

Isola Bella means ‘Beautiful island’ in Italian. This beach is famous around the world for its scenic beauty that awes the tourists visiting the site. You can discover it by boating and enjoy the temperate waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Others who want to have a thrill, can book themselves for the private Sailing Excursion including launch on board from Taormina.

Aci Trezza – Catania

Aci Trezza is a very popular spot for tourists and Italian people in summertime. It is a coastal town that has a rich history and known for its interesting legends. Further, the coast is also famous for its vibrant maritime history. Along the coast, three columns shaped islands: It is believed that these columns shaped stones were thrown towards the Ulysses in the Odyssey.

Mondello – Palermo

Palermo’s beach situated in Mondello is a small, seaside resort that is few kilometers away from the city center. The beach is generally full of people oozing out after their work and sunbathing. Sunny weather is an ideal time for the sightseeing and for enjoying the waves of the beach to cool down. The beach establishments and the pastel-colored cabins cover most of the coastline area.

Fontane Bianche – Syracuse

The beach of Syracuse is famous for its crystalline blue water and golden sand. Hence, it is the favorite spot of many local and international tourists. Due to the distance between the town and the coastal area, you must arrive here by public transport or by car. One of the reason to visit Fontane Bianche is the locals call it ‘Natural Paradise’ and you will discover why!

Scala dei Turchi – Agrigento

This beach is the icon of Sicily due to the white cliff. It is located between Realmonte and Portp Empedocle (Agrigento). It is a soft limestone that is blinded with incredible white marl.

Vendicari – Noto

Vendicari is one of the famous beaches of all the Mediterranean coast. If anyone wants to have a sunbath or to discover the hidden part of the sea, then this is the ideal destinatio. One of the prominent characteristics of this beach is the presence of Neptune seaweeds that form the harmless barrier to the coastline.

Zingaro Nature Reserve

The cost of this beach is rugged and rocky, mostly occupied with myriad of coves, sea stacks and grottoes in the limestone cliffs. Due to its picturesque beauty, the beach is crowded during the holiday season. But despite this, Zingaro is among the best beaches in Sicily.

Equal marriage between same-sex couples and mixed-sex couples is allowed in many countries, but it is still not permitted in many states. In Italy for instance, the government established Civil Unions. What is the difference between these two celebrations?Let’s try to understand the diversities of civil unions and civil weddings (which are held in a Wedding Hall and not in Church).Both these institutions are guaranteed by the Italian Constitution, but Unions are meant to be only for same-sex couples, whereas marriage is possible only for mixed-sex couples. In case of a Union there is no necessary ceremony and no preparatory fulfillment to be achieved, but both institutions recognize the rights and obligations of coupledom. But civil unions do not allow adoptions and there is no fidelity duty. Apart from these peculiarities the two celebrations are almost identical. In case of a Union the ceremony is not necessary, there will be only a declaration from the couple, to be made in front of a public official ( a mayor, a councilman, or a civilian with a power of attorney) and two witnesses.The act will be recorded in a register.

Civil Union’s rights and duties:

Like marriage, a civil union requires mutual obligation of spouses of cohabitation, community property (or division of assets in case both subjects agree on it), moral and material assistance, and the duty of contributing to common needs. In the event of death of one of the spouses, the other will have the right of perceiving pension payments. In the event of serious sickness of one of the spouses, the partner will have the right to decide whether to accept or not the treatments.

Non-marital partnership:

The law also established the procedure for the acknowledgement of non-marital partnerships. In this case the two subjects would formalize their union, with all the rights and duties, without having to celebrate a wedding. It could be considered as an alternative to marriage, available to everyone, and its only goal is to have right and duties recognized. The only requirement is that it has to be confirmed by a notary.

What to See Once in Sicily

A trip in Italy without visiting Sicily would not be complete. This is the land of archeological Unesco sites, and excellent food (11 Michelin-starred restaurants), blue flag-rated beaches and among the most beautiful cities in the word.Many cultures have dominated the island over the history and you will see it as they have left their mark everywhere.Here you can find some tips on what to see once in Sicily. This cities will make your trip unforgettable.

1. Ragusa

Colored houses, narrow streets and stairways will welcome you in Ilba, the picturesque old town of Ragusa. In its street you will encounter the baroque style, the balconies of the houses and you will be suddenly surprised by its imposing and elegant churches.

2. Catania

Catania is the second largest city of Sicily and its historic center is a baroque gem and easy to visit by foot. Let yourself be seduced by its street markets, great food and a vibrant gay nightlife.

3. Aeolian Islands

Vulcano, Lipari, Salina, Panarea, Stomboli, Alicudi and Filicudi are the volcanic archipelago of Aeolian. Here you can find thermal resorts, good fishing and scuba diving and sandy beaches. Plus during summertime, there are frequent ferries from Sicily and Naples to the islands.

4. Lampedusa and the Pelagian Islands

Lampedusa, Linosa and Lampione are the three main islands of the archipelago and they are called in Italian “Isole d’alto mare”. Lampedusa is real paradise for those in love with clear sea and sandy beaches.

5. Tindari

Tindari is a small town near Messina, founded by Dyonisus in 396 BC. Among the most significant monuments of the ancient “Tyndaris” are the Basilica of the Black Madonna and the large archaeological site.

6. Cefalù

Cefalù is among the most beautiful seaside of Sicily and it is one of the most picturesque villages in Italy. With the ancient ruins overlooking the sea and its beaches, Cefalù has always been the most popular places on the island.

7. Taormina

Taormina, near Catania, has many interesting sights and attractions. Take your time to visit the remnants of its Greek and Roman past and the modern shops and restaurants. Near the town you can find excellent beaches where you can swim in the clear sea water.

8. Gola dell’Alcantara

The Alcantara Gorges have been created over the centuries due to seismic events. The nature here is magnificent and it is possible to cross the river Alcantara, which flows in its lava bed. This is the best place for those in love with nature and adventure.

9. Syracuse

Siracusa is the main historic cities of Sicily. It was founded in 734 or 733 BC by Greek and it is worth visiting for its rich history. The ancient Siracusa is also listed by Unesco. Don’t mis
s a visit to Ortigia, the ruins of the Temple of Athena and the Greek theatre.

10. San Vito Lo Capo

In San Vito Lo Capo there is one of the most beautiful beaches in Italy. If you are looking for dreamy beaches and waters like the Caribbean one, this is definitely the place for you.

When you talk about fashion, Italy is the best known places in the world. Italy has the power to start trends and to adapt to all the latest fashions that are found in the world.If you a looking for good cities to go shopping, Italy is the prominent place to go for. Here you will find mega malls and shopping district and in this cities you will find unique features from the latest trends to the high fashion.

Milan – Via Montenapoleone and Via della Spiga

Via Montenapoleone is the most upscale shopping street. According to many fashion magazine, it is declared as the Europe’s most fashionstreet in 2018. Europe’s well known designers such as La Perla, Louis Vuitton, Ralph Lauren, Bottega Veneta, Sergio Rossi and Gucci are situated here.Via della Spiga is the another famous shopping street of Milan, near Via Montenapoleone and the gay district Porta Venezia. This street is very popular for luxury shopping and fashionable brands. The big names in botiques and showrooms are: Dolce and Gabbana, Prada, Roberto Cavalli, Moschino, Giorgio Armani and many others international fashion labels.

Roma – Via Condotti, via del Corso and via del Babbuino

Via Condotti is one of the busiest streets for shopping. It is known for the greatest number of Roman-based Italian fashion retailers. And obviously in Rome is not only shopping. While walking from a shop to another you will be surprised by the amazing numbers of  sights of interests such as Santissima Trinità and Palazzo degli Ansellini. Via del Corso and Via del Babbuino are the other main commercial centeres of Rome. Here you will find high fashion and fast fashion shops.

Bari –  Via Sparano

Via Sparano is the Via Montenapoleone of Bari. Come here to discover a world of high fashion and luxury.  As the night falls, the restaurants and out bars open for visitors to serve them with their unique tastes.

Turin – Via Roma

Turin is one of the city of north Italy out of the tourist’s route. But if you decide to come here you will discover historical cafès and a city dedicated to fashion. The main street is Via Roma and apart from that there are also major sights of interest such as Piazza San Carlo and Piazza Castello.

Bologna – Via Rizzoli

There are more than one reason to visit Bologna. starting from the cuisine to its vibrant gay nightlife. Fashion is another reason to come in Bologna. Via Rizzoli is the street with historical significance and now the main center of fashion.

Florence – Ponte Vecchio, via Tornabuoni, via della Vigna Nuova

Everyone know Florence for its art, the amazing Tuscan cuisine and for the tasty wine. Ponte Vecchio is the medival stone closed bridge that is occupied by shops. Via Tornabuoni is the street at the center of Florence and is characterized by fashion boutiques and historic artisanal shops.

Naples – Via Toledo

Naples is a lively city with unique culture and festivals, it is one of the most populous urban center of Italy and Via Toledo is one of the most vibrant street of the whole country. Here you will find fashion shops, restaurants and some of the best place to try the Naples’s food.

6 Do Not Miss Places to Visit in Sardinia

Sardinia is an incredible Italian region, often known for its paradisiacal beaches and a wild and wonderful nature, here the Italians come for so many reasons. In addition to the particularly vibrant and fun gay life in the worm periods of the year, there are many things that can’t be lost. We have selected 10 of them.

La Maddalena

La Maddalena is a national park and an archipelago known all over the world for its incredible beauty. Here the most important people of Italy come on vacation, but this don’t mean that it’s an inaccessible place. If you come to this area, remember to visit the Pink Beach, a small beach with naturally pink sand.

Cagliari

If the north of Sardinia is remembered as the rich and luxurious, in the south the villas and discos leave space for nature and local life. Cagliari is one of the most beautiful cities of Sardinia and overlooks the sea. Palms, benches and cycle paths stretch for kilometers on the Poetto, one of the most beautiful beaches in Italy. Here you will find also gay clubs or gay beaches where to meet other gays.

Molentargius

Not just pink sand but also pink birds. In Sardinia it is possible to see flamingos in different places. Along the coast of Oristano, on the ponds of Molentargius and Cabras as well as in Cagliari you can see many that during the summer come here to keep us company.

Costa Smeralda

Costa Smeralda is a daydream. Villages and small towns are flooded in summer by people from all over the world. Porto Cervo is the queen of Costa Smeralda, thanks to the many clubs and the always full port of yachts.

Red Rocks of Arbatax

We already put the Red Rocks of Arbatax in our article about the 6 hidden gems to discover in Italy but we can’t get enough. Close to Ogliastra you can see a breathtaking panorama of red rocks emerging from the water. The red stand in contrast with the blue sky creating an emerald shade on the waves.

Su Nuraxi

Su Nuraxi is a settlement dating back to the Nuragic age and has grown over time from the 16th to 14th centuries BC. This is one of the largest Nuragic villages in Sardinia and to see it creates an explosion of emotions. Its size and conservation have allowed it to enter the UNESCO heritage.

The Dolomites and the Alps, lakes, hills and breathtaking coastline. Northern Italy is a place to discover for its unique landscape and orgasmic foods. We take a look at the most beautiful places to see once in Northern Italy.

1. Turin

Piazza Castello and its Palazzo Madama in the centerpiece of the main square of Turin. From here you can start discovering the city and baroque buildings. Make sure to visit the amazing villas, the historical cafes and to enjoy the vibrant Turin’s gay nightlife.

2. Milan

Contemporary buildings, fashion and the most active gay life of Italy. Milan is a city you want not to miss during your trip in the Bel Paese. Once in town make sure to visit the Duomo with its white marble façade, the amazing Sforzesco Castle and the liberty Porta Venezia district, the heart of the Milan’s gay life.

3. Venice

Venice is a dream that everyone deserves to live. One of the best thing to do once in Venice is to get lost in its little streets and passageways. But not be scared: you will not get truly lost because everything lies around Piazza San Marco: the most elegant square of Italy and the perfect spot to drink a coffee or meet friends.

4. Cortina d’Ampezzo

Cortina is one of the most loved towns from the winter sports lovers. Here you will find ski resorts and breath-taking mountain views. During winter season the chocolate box chalets are covered with heavy snow and the houses pleanty of romantic lights.

5. Langhe

Langhe is the Piedmont regions known for its wine. Here you will find a breathtaking vineyard-covered hills and wine cellars ready to give you some great tastes of their wine. Make sure to visit Barolo, Alba, Barbaresco and Monforte.

6. Tre Cime di Lavaredo

The amazing mountain ranges of the Dolomites are the perfect destnations for those in love with nature and hiking. This area is full of trails and in Tre Cime di Lavaredo you will find one of the best spot to go hiking in the wild Italian nature.

7. Cinque Terre

The Cinque Terre is a coastal region in the Liguria and it comprises five villages: Monterosso al Mare to Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. The region is famous worldwide for its dramatic scenery and colorful towns.

8. Bagni di Bormio

Bormio is a small town to Switzerland and it is famous to be one of the best hot springs towns in Italy.  Once here make sure to relax in the Bagni Vecchi and enjoy the Valtellina foods.

9. Lake Como

Lake Como is known for its outstanding natural beauty, crystalline bays and amazing architecture. It is just one hour from Milan and this make the Lake a very popular destination for whom is come in the fashion city of Italy. Prepare to be impressed by  the spectacular lakeside vistas and take a boat trip to one of the central islands.

A Civil Union will create an everlasting bound between two persons (except in the case of a separation or a divorce). Before organizing your Civil Union in Italy, let’s have a look at what the law prescribes. We have already pointed out that a Union is different from a Marriage, as this institution in Italy is permitted only for mixed-sex couples, and rights and duties are not the same.A Civil Union provides for two same-sex adult subjects, and has to be performed in front of a public official, who will validate the procedure, and two wedding witnesses.The Union will be included in the State Civil register, together with the biographical data, the residency and the property regime. The newlyweds can decide to have a common surname, but it is not mandatory. Two persons cannot get married in case one of them is a minor, or has a mental illness, if they are related or they are already married, or if one of them has been found guilty of murder or attempted murder of their previous spouse. If the union is the result of a state of fear or constraint, it will not be considered valid.

Major rights and duties conferred by Unions

The couple will decide wether if they will have the same surname and which property regime will be applied (community property state or separation of property), and they will decide where their marital residence will be located.  The Civil Code procedures will be applied with regard to pension transferability, inheritance and succession (all these rights are valid for civil unions).Both partners have the duty of moral assistance and material support, and to contribute to the common needs. In case of serious illness of one of the partners, the other one has the right to decide which medical treatment will be provided.In the eventuality of sex change, the civil union will automatically lapse when the gender will be modified on the public registry. The reason for the annulment is that unions are valid only for same-sex couples, and the will to pursue the relationship does not prevent the cancellation of the bond.

Adoption

The text of the law does not provide adoption for gay couples. The law contained an article concerning the stepchild adoption, the adoption of the partner’s child. This part has been canceled by the Senate, in order to obtain the approval from the majority of the government. Nevertheless judicial courts are able to define the subject. In the last years many couples obtained adoptions, whether it was the partner’s child or a child born through GPA.

Divorce

Before obtaining a divorce, the couple will have to wait a 3 month separation period, and afterwards the divorce will be effective. The act takes place with the will of interrupting the union. Apart from the shorter separation time, the procedure is the same as the one applied for marriages.

The Most Beautiful Gardens To Visit Once in Italy

Italy is a country with a good variety of temperate, stunning landscapes and opulent villas. For this reason in Italy you will find some of the most beautiful gardens that has inspired ancient and contemporary designer.

6 Most Beautiful Gardens in Italy

This is something born in the past with the villas fo kings and queens and they are not only interesting to green lovers but something that most of Italian people consider one of the top tourist attractions. In this post you find the most beautiful gardens to visit once in Italy.

1. Villa della Regina – Turin

Villa della Regina is part of the Savoy Villas, UNESCO Sites of Torino. The complex of vineyards and gardens was built by the House of Savoy in the early seventeenth. From the Queen vineyards it produced today the Freisa di Chieri DOC ” Villa della Vigna Queen “. In the park you will see the Pavilion of the Solinghi, a pagoda building used by the Academy of the Solinghi to meet intellectuals.

2. Villa Carlotta – Como Lake

The garden of Villa Carlotta is a very romantic and fascinating place. Here you can find different styles of gardening and different species of plants. Here you can find an authentic sea of multicolored azalea, different varieties of camelies in many colors and the bamboos garden inspired by the Japanese garden.

3. Isola Bella – Maggiore Lake

Isola Bella means Beautiful Island and with a reason. In this small island you can find the 17th-century palace of Count Vitaliano Borromeo with a series of 10 terraces. The terraces are completely covered with flowers and trees, camellias, magnolias, oleanders and statues. To arrive here you can take the boat on to Isola Madre.

4. Villa Necchi Campiglio – Milano

Villa Necchi Campiglio is located in the Liberty area of Milan, near the gay district. It is an explosion of art: the interior is full of works from Fontana and Magritte, while outside the beautiful garden with swimming pool is full of all type of flowers.

5. Giardini della Venaria Reale

Venaria Reale, just 30 minutes from Turin is one of the best example of the magnificent of the House of Savoy.  The Reggia is dedicated to the goddess Diana and you will see this everywhere. The garden has a unique ancient and modern charm. Take your time to stroll around the garden and to enjoy it from a different point of view. You can sail on the Great Pond on the gondola of the Reggia, a real Venetian boat.

6. Labirinto della Masone – Parma

Entering in the Labirinto della Masone and getting lost in the alleyways and crossroads of the labyrinth has that charm that only having to choose can give you. This maze is the largest bamboo maze in the world. And it is a true and unique work of art that is still little known in Italy. It has the classic star shape and refers to the Roman labyrinths to which blind alleys, crossroads and traps have been added; absent in the original variants.