Elite Traveler January-February 2017

elite traveler JAN/FEB 2017 71

C O U N T R Y F O C U S I T A L Y For many, Italy represents the absolute pinnacle of everything a visitor could want. It has a staggeringly impressive history, and culture by the gallon (mostly undamaged by the ravages of time), boasts a warmth and friendliness, has a culinary heritage that is envied and exported the world over, and an innate style that resonates through fashion, furniture and more. If you’ve never visited the country before, Rome must be your first port of call. Local fashion house Fendi has a solid presence here with the new Palazzo Fendi a combination of atelier, shop and hotel with swanky restaurant Zuma on top. In fact you have Fendi to thank for the newly renovated Trevi Fountain (they paid for the restoration work) – chuck a coin in to ensure you’ll return (according to the legend), then you won't feel as much pressure to race around the sights, although do make the time for the newest museum in town, MAXXI, dedicated to the 21st century arts, and designed by Zaha Hadid. While food has always been Rome’s strong suit, in recent years the drinking scene has caught up with speakeasy-style bars popping up all over – check out Jerry Thomas, Club Derrière, and stylish cocktail lounge, Chorus Café. If all this sounds a little too much like hard work, get away from it all with a trip to the endlessly romantic Amalfi Coast where stunning hotels teeter over clear blue water, and your only concern is where your next limoncello is coming from.

Right: The Piano Nobile

Dining Room at the Aman Venice