Hut to hut in the Dolomites

Planning a mountain hut trek: routes, bookings and what to pack.

I came to Italy with a loose plan and a long list. By the end, the list mattered less than the small moments in between — a conversation at a train station, a meal I didn't expect, a view I almost skipped.

The highlight for me was tuscan hill towns. Go early if you can; the light is softer and the paths are quiet. After that, florence's museums made a perfect slow afternoon.

If you are planning your own trip, my advice is simple: give each place more time than you think you need. Italy is best in april to june and september to october, but every season has its own reasons to visit.

Pack light, carry a reusable water bottle, and leave space in the day for things you can't plan. That's where most of my favorite memories came from.