City travelers, meet Sara Vitali, marketing manager of Slow Lake Como and blogger at Sustainable Tourism World – our latest interview with inspiring travel bloggers, sharing their favorite city destinations and travel experiences.
Sara, a few words about Slow Lake Como: what is it all about?
At the end of 2016 I joined the tour operator Slow Lake Como as marketing manager. The project is based at Lake Como in Italy and founded by Davide and Daniele, who are passionate about our place, Lake Como.
At Slow Lake Como we consider sustainable tourism as an approach that helps our local community develop businesses, conserve and improve the environment and receive a positive social impact.
If you had to choose one, which would you consider your favourite city – and what makes it so special for you?
My favorite city is probably Rome, followed by Brisbane in Australia. I also love Como, especially during spring time.
5 tips for fellow travelers planning to visit Rome? Do’s and Don’ts?
- Relax. Rome is beautiful but many areas are a chaos. Try to take it easy.
- Don’t try to see everything, but to discover just one area per day. This way you can reach the area by public transport and enjoy it for a longer time.
- Rome is a beautiful city for just walking around and getting lost.
- Plan your visits to touristic sites (like Colosseum, Vatican museum and other popular sites) in advance to avoid long queues.
- Try to see the places with local friends, or local people by checking on portals like Couchsurfing.com who is ready to meet up. This is always the best way to explore a city!
3 ingredients for the perfect city trip?
- Sneakers & thermos
- Public transport card
- Map of green areas and parks
Which gadgets or apps do you consider essential for an enjoyable city travel experience?
A thematic printable map including information for people visiting and walking: green areas, fountains or water refill points. I would say, thermos is a must in any travel season. Try to avoid buying beverages in plastic bottles and cups, to fight against plastic pollution!
Do you have tips how to be a responsible traveler?
While being in your holiday mood, don’t forget about good manners and to be respectful. For instance, don’t litter the streets, and separate your waste so it can be recycled.
Learn some basic phrases in the language of the place you are going to visit.
Your key lessons learned from travelling the world?
Try to see behind the stereotypes and you will discover many common characteristics of humanity and just a few differences. Differences are more linked to people’s style of life than to the countries they live in.
Because of globalization, people now often have common characteristics, even if they live in very different areas or countries. I like it, though it is getting more difficult to find traditional habits.
Thank you, Sara – and safe travels!
Connect with Sara Vitali on Twitter or Instagram, or visit her website. Follow Slow Lake Como on Facebook or Instagram.