Where you sleep in the Dolomites shapes every hiking day. A practical comparison of Cortina, Val Gardena, Val Badia, Alta Pusteria and Val di Fassa by trail access, transport and hiking level.

May, June, and September give the Amalfi Coast its best balance of warm sea, open ferries, and sane prices. Here is how every month actually behaves.

Late September in Sicily brings warm sea, quiet beaches and a harvest table at its peak — here is how to plan around weather, crowds, wine and swimming.