As we contemplate how travels in 2021 might play out, our taste buds are alerted to our favourite culinary destinations.

Japan, Peru, India, Thailand, Indonesia and Australasia feature strongly, while in Europe, France, Spain and Italy are our are top three. However, the undisputed number one is Italy. This is a land not only blessed with a fascinating history, beautiful cities, glorious countryside, majestic mountains, and a ravishing coastline with offshore islands but with a rich and diverse cuisine and fine wines.

Italy rarely disappoints. And where better to enjoy its wonderful food than while residing at a beautiful villa with a lovely staff and a fine chef?

Finding a property of the right size, quality and location is a challenge. Arranging the staff is another. Planning how to spend the days, maybe with a boat for all or part of the stay, takes organising; accessing the often inaccessible requires high-level contacts; and knowing the best places for an occasional beach lunch or dining at an unmissable trattoria takes insider knowledge. It all takes discernment.

We know Italy rather well. We also know its finest homes, where to charter a top-notch day cruiser, enjoy unique experiences, find the most beautiful stores, art galleries and museums and do everything in style. It’s the details that matter yet it’s the details that are so often overlooked.

We are familiar with Portofino, Monte Argentario, Capri, the Amalfi Coast, Sicily, the Aeolian islands, Pantelleria, Costa Smeralda; with the cuisines of Liguria, Toscana, Campania and Sicily. We know how to access magnificent lakeside homes and Tuscan and Umbrian country estates. Our strapline is ‘We know where’.

We’ve all been affected one way or another by the global pandemic and are longing to be travelling again more freely from late spring onwards. With this in mind, let the experts take over and help you make up for lost time, the Nota Bene way.

We look forward to hearing from you.