The Tasteful Varieties of Vera Cruz, Mexico

In the humid climate of Veracruz, it's perfect to go outdoors at night, as the wind flows to the African-inspired songs of the pervasive musica tropical. As you unravel its waterfront or experience the nightlife all over the central plaza, it's best to enjoy the mouthwatering cold snacks of this place like fruit shakes or licuados, frozen fruit bars or palados, and numerous types of ice cream or helado. 

Ever since it was founded in 1519, this part of Mexico has been the main port in the east and a major gastronomic location to explore. Olive oil as well as Mediterranean spices and herbs came from the Old World and added new tastes to the native ingredients of Central America like chilies, corn, and various beans. 

Some of its popular dished are fresh boiled shrimps, tamales that are wrapped in banana leaves, picaditas or thick corn tortillas with cheese and salsa, and fried tortitas with black beans. If you want a beverage that gives a punch, drink a toro — this is a type of milkshake that is mixed with a strong sugarcane liquor.

Veracruz is also a paradise for tropical fruit lovers. Whether fresh or in the form of juices, many fruits are actually familiar to most people like papayas, pineapples, mangoes and coconuts.

So when you go to Veracruz, it's not only your eyes that will feast but your taste buds, too!

Rome Sweet Rome!

For many decades, "fashionable" and “pensione” were never a match in Italy. Small and family-run, with no room service or concierge, or at times even a working TV, pensiones were regarded as dowdy — particularly in Rome which is a very style-conscious city.

But nowadays, the bed-and-breakfasts of this country have considerably grown up. They continue to be intimate affairs, a “second home” where you plan the places to see and the things to do in this popular tourist destination, over a brioche (cornetto) and coffee. Here’s the three of them:

Guesthouse Arco dei Tolomei

A sense of time travel is significantly felt in this place. The owners embellished the 6 guest rooms with the family’s noble belongings: a walnut wardrobe, a crystal chandelier, and family portraits from the 18th century.

Aklesia Suite 

This pensione reflects the history of the neighborhood and the personality of its owner as well. Situated nearby the Colosseum, the 3 sun-filled rooms of Aklesia, with their unique antiques and tiled floors, are warm and convivial.

Locanda del Sole

You'll find handmade furniture made in Italy; enjoy homemade Nutella rolls during breakfast; be greeted with hazelnut chocolates, Lazio wine and a complimentary minibar including prosecco.