Canadian World Traveller Spring 2024 Issue

Having journeyed to Italy numerous
times, each visit unfurling it's
own unique cultural, historical,
and–of course–gastronomical–experiences, I
found myself yearning for something different—a
return to the old-school way of exploring,
where the journey itself is as enriching as
the destinations. This time, I sought to
embrace the concept of slow travel, to
immerse myself deeply in the essence of Italy,
not just as a tourist but as a traveler intent on
savoring every moment, every flavor, and
every sunset with unbridled appreciation.
With this spirit, I embarked on a grand tour,
not just any tour, but a luxurious voyage
aboard the legendary Arlecchino train, complemented
by stays at the illustrious Sina
Hotels. This journey harked back to a bygone
era of glamour and leisure, where the pace
was slower, and the experiences were
savored, promising an intimate exploration
of Italy’s grandeur through its cities and the
storied halls of Sina Hotels.
Embarking on this Italian journey, the allure
was not just in traversing the picturesque
landscapes but in diving deep into the lap of
luxury, history, and gastronomy offered by
the iconic Arlecchino train and the illustrious
Sina Hotels. This narrative unfolds not as a
mere recounting of travel but as a personal
diary, chronicling an intimate exploration of
Italy’s grandeur.
The Arlecchino Train: A Revival of Glamour
Boarding the Arlecchino felt like stepping
onto a movie set from the 1960s, where
every detail, from the polished wood paneling
to the sumptuous fabrics, was a nod to a
bygone era of glamour. The journey between
cities became a highlight, with landscapes
that shifted from rolling vineyards to ancient
cityscapes, all viewed from the luxurious
comfort of the train’s interiors. Dining
aboard was an event with courses that mirrored
the passing regions, each dish narrating
the story of its origin through taste and
presentation.
Rome: The Eternal City at Sina Bernini Bristol
My first stop, Rome, was marked by the
grandiosity of the Sina Bernini Bristol.
Situated in the city's pulsating heart, the hotel
is a monument to luxury, standing proudly by
the Piazza Barberini. Its storied history, spanning
150 years, was palpable in the opulent
decor and the attentive service that made
every moment spent there special. My room
offered a breathtaking vista of Rome, a canvas
of history and modernity. Dining at Il
Vizio, the hotel’s rooftop haven, provided a
symphony of flavors and an unparalleled
view of the Eternal City, making each meal a
memorable part of my Roman holiday.
Perugia: Unveiling History at Sina Brufani
As the Arlecchino glided into the heart of
Umbria, the historic Sina Brufani in Perugia
awaited. With a legacy stretching over 140
years, this hotel is a treasure chest of stories,
nestled atop a hill and offering sweeping
views spanning the medieval city and the
green heart of Italy. The interiors were a
seamless blend of antique charm and modern
luxury, with rooms that felt like private
sanctuaries of elegance. The highlight was
undoubtedly the swimming pool, set over
ancient ruins visible through a glass floor,
offering a literal swim through history. And
even though Italy’s March weather isn’t
always synonymous with swimming.
Florence:
A Renaissance Dream at Sina Villa Medici
Florence greeted me with the refined beauty
of the Sina Villa Medici. This hotel, encased
in a 19th-century palace, is a testament to
the Renaissance spirit that permeates the city.
The gardens, a lush retreat in the urban
landscape, were the perfect backdrop for
evenings spent dining al fresco at Harry’s Bar
The Garden, where the culinary masterpieces
served were rivaled only by the artistic ones
adorning the city. The Sina Villa Medici was
not just a place to stay; it was a portal to the
past, offering a slice of Florentine life that
was both luxurious and steeped in history.
Venice:
Modern Majesty at Sina Centurion Palace
The decision to extend my journey to Venice
brought me to the doorstep of the Sina
Centurion Palace. Overlooking the Grand
Canal, this hotel is a bold statement of con-
temporary design set against the historical
canvas of Venice. Each room
75
was a fusion of modern chic and traditional
luxury, with views capturing Venetian
life's essence. Dining at the hotel was a journey
through Venice’s culinary heritage, with
innovative dishes that paid homage to the
city’s rich gastronomic legacy. The Centurion
Palace was more than a hotel; it was an
experience blending the old and new in a city
that defies time.
Culinary Experiences and Beyond
The culinary journey across these destinations
was a highlight, with each Sina Hotel
offering a unique perspective on Italy’s
diverse flavors. From the rooftop elegance of
Il Vizio in Rome to the serene gardens of
Harry’s Bar in Florence, and the innovative
cuisine of Venice’s Sina Centurion Palace,
every meal was a discovery and intimate
means of better digesting Italy’s steeped culture–quite
literally. The ingredients, the
preparation, and the presentation were all
testament to Italy’s deep-rooted culinary traditions
and the innovative spirit that continues
to evolve them.
Coming From An Italy Afficiando–This Is The
Way To Experience Italy
This Italian voyage, from the historic corridors
of the Arlecchino train to the luxurious
embrace of Sina Hotels, was a narrative of
discovery, luxury, and unparalleled hospitality.
Each hotel opened up its city to me, not
just as a place to visit but as a world to
inhabit, if only for a short while. They were
not merely places to rest but sanctuaries that
offered a deeper connection to Italy’s rich
history, culture, and gastronomy. As I reflect
on this journey, I realize it was not just a passage
through Italy but an invitation into the
heart of its beauty, a beauty that persists in
the walls of its hotels, the landscapes outside
my window, and the flavors that danced
upon my palate. This was not merely travel;
it was an experience woven into the essence
of Italian splendor, leaving indelible marks
on my memory and a yearning to return.
www.sinahotels.com
Villa Medici Villa Medici Centurion Palace
World Traveler Spring 2024