TRAVELLING ON FILM: 3 movies set in Rome

February 19, 2015February 7, 2015 / The practical explorer / Leave a comment

I’m really looking forward to going to Rome next month. I’ve been there before, but that was many years ago, so it will be great to visit it again!

Rome is very picturesque, with amazing architectural features everywhere you look. So of course may great films have been set there… here are three of my favourites:

1. Bicycle Thieves

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Bicycle Thieves is a beautiful film by Vittorio De Sica, but boy is it sad. It’s set in the post-war, and it shows the many struggles of the main character.

The grandeur of Rome in the backdrop adds another layer to this tale of misery. An amazing film, but not an easy one to watch.

2. The Talented Mr Ripley

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The Talented Mr Ripley is set in a few different locations around Italy, including Rome. This thriller is full of suspense and plot twists, all happening in amazing places where the main characters live the high life, such as the luxurious St Regis Hotel.

The perfect film to watch with a glass of wine on a lazy weekend afternoon.

3. To Rome with Love

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Woody Allen is a favourite of this blog, but he really makes the location a central part of his films.

To Rome with Love is a classic Woody Allen film, hilarious and neurotic. The cast is absolutely amazing, with Alec Baldwin, Penelope Cruz, Helen Page, Roberto Benigni and many others.

Rome is such a perfect city for this entertaining film!

IN PICTURES: Sicily sunshine

December 12, 2014November 23, 2014 / The practical explorer / Leave a comment

Sicily is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited. The beaches look amazing, there are medieval villages around and it’s just really laid back and relaxing… perfect!

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THE ARTS BIENNALE IN VENICE

November 21, 2014November 13, 2014 / The practical explorer / Leave a comment

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Sometimes when you want something for a long time you forget that you can simply do it.

I always wanted to go to the arts Biennale in Venice. So last year I bought tickets and actually did it!

There are exhibits all over the city, but there are two main venues: Giardini (with individual pavilions for different countries) and Arsenale (one large pavilion with many exhibits).

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We bought a day ticket, but really you need at least one day for each venue.

There was so much to see, it was amazing! Art in all forms and media from all over the world in a very impressive set up. We liked it so much that we’re going again next year!

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HOW TO DO IT:

Go: There are lots of flights from London and the journey takes only a little over 2h, so this is a great option for a weekend away.
Tickets: You can buy tickets to the Biennale here. A day ticket costs 23.50€.
Stay: Venice is an expensive city, so book in advance to get good prices. We stayed at San Geremia, which was a good option at a good location.
Do: Apart from the Biennale, there’s lots to do in Venice. Explore the canals, buy Carnival masks and marvel at the Doge’s Palace. But also take some time to go around San Polo district, where you can see a more authentic side of Venice.

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