6 best alternatives to Italy's famous landmarks

When I visited Paris last year for the first time, I couldn't wait to eat my way around the city.

Some of the best chefs in the world believe that some of the most creative work they do in the kitchen is with vegetables. Plant-based dining has been growing exponentially, with restaurants now taking into consideration this dietary preference when crafting their menus. It has become a lifestyle for many, for reasons ranging from ethical to health to environmental to religious. But one thing is for sure, the momentum is only growing stronger, and for many kitchens, plant-based offerings are no longer just an afterthought or a pity party (i.e., lettuce leaves and a dressing) but high level courses that still celebrate their restaurants’ ethos.

Royal Caribbean already operates the world’s largest cruise ship—Wonder of the Seas—but next January it will break that record with Icon of the Seas, which boasts 2,805 staterooms (including more than 1,800 with balconies) and 179 suites. Nearly 1,200 feet long, Icon of the Seas has 20 decks and features a 55-foot-waterfall, multiple pools and waterparks and a “chill island” and a “thrill island”—depending on a passenger’s vibe.

Denver is one of the fastest growing cities in the US, a one-time "cow town" turned Rocky Mountain powerhouse. At the core sits LoDo, the city’s oldest neighborhood with historic buildings, boutique shopping and some of Denver’s best hotels. Just west of there is LoHi, a leafy Victorian-era neighborhood and foodie’s haven. South and east are the Golden Triangle, Capitol Hill and City Park neighborhoods, home to museums, edgy urban life and big green spaces. And north is RiNo, Denver’s heart of cool, with street art and hipster nightlife.

Kalmoesfontein Farm

When it comes to building the ultimate travel wardrobe, no closet or carry-on should be without a pair of the best white sneakers. Comfortable and versatile, white sneakers go with practically any outfit, and look good in nearly any environment (maybe trade ’em out when you’re hitting the trails, though). Whether you're wearing a pair of jeans, activewear, or a dress, one go-to pair is all you need. Below, we've rounded up 20-plus options that will take you from the airport to the museum to dinner with ease, from brands you know and love: Everlane, Allbirds, Rothy's, Nike, Adidas, and more.

Hamburg is perpetually on the brink of falling out with itself. On the one hand, it’s a city of convention and millionaires – Hamburg has the highest concentration in Germany – with all the associated trappings.

Any well-bred young gent in the 1600s–1800s was likely to go on the Grand Tour after university. The Tour, a sort of cultural gap year, took in much of continental Europe. The usual route ran through France and Switzerland and into Italy, with a return trip taking in Germany, Holland and any other countries the young man fancied. The essential stop to complete any cultural education was Rome, still an incredible destination for anyone interested in art or history.

Find beach holidays in Italy with Natasha Foges who shares her favourites from peaceful beaches in Puglia, Sicily and Sardinia to seaside breaks in Tuscany and south of the Amalfi Coast. The information in this article is taken from The Rough Guide to Italy your travel guide for visiting Italy.

Italy ranks 2nd on our list of the most beautiful countries in the world, and indeed, Italy has it all: one of the most diverse and beautiful landscapes and impressive architecture. In our guide, we have focused on the best places to visit in northern Italy, from the stunning lakes to the Dolomites.

Looking for unusual things to do in Naples? You’ll find museums of curiosities. There's a serene coast. Ancient aqueducts lie beneath streets. And there's more to eat than pizza. Take a look at our alternative guide to Naples. The information in this article is taken from The Rough Guide to Italy your essential guide for visiting Italy.

Genoa is often overlooked and under-appreciated. Yet it has the largest medieval centre in Europe, 42 World Heritage Palazzi and Genovese food is outstanding. Take a closer look and discover seven top Genoa foodie experiences, revealed by Natasha Foges. The information in this article is taken from The Rough Guide to Italy your essential guide for visiting Italy.