After a few days exploring the Eternal City, those looking to delve deeper into ancient Italy can be on their way to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pompeii in less than two hours thanks to a new direct train from Rome. Previously, day-trippers had to change trains at Naples Central Station during the 150-mile journey south. The new service will be available on Sundays only and will allow direct flights departing from Roma Termini station at 8:53am and arriving in Pompeii at 10:40am. The return train departs at 6:40pm and arrives in Rome at 8:55pm. It’s time to head to a trattoria for Rome’s legendary carbonara.
The service comes at a good time, as the 1st-century Vetti House, which features Pompeii frescoes, recently completed a 20-year renovation. Meanwhile, more discoveries were made in his 2023 in the District 9 area of the ruins, including jewelry, human bones, and still life frescoes depicting food. Italy’s Minister of Culture, Gennaro Sangiuliano, said: “Pompeii is a treasure chest where new treasures are always being discovered.”
Saimaa (Finland)
Taste of the Lakes of Europe’s Gastronomic Regions
It’s not just the fresh air and peace that draw Finns to the forests and lakes of Saimaa. The same goes for food. And in 2024, its star will rise as a European gastronomic region. Many of the region’s most beloved agricultural products come from its forests and waters. You can find wild game, chanterelles, and blueberries in the forest, and sea bass and sea bass in the lake. Smoked reindeer hints at the region’s arctic influence, and producers like Olinmäki and his winery fly the flag for Finland’s burgeoning wine industry.
Food can be a helpful compass as you explore this corner of Europe, full of hiking trails, manor houses, and historic towns. Sala, a roasted lamb and potato dish, is a Remi specialty, and the markets in nearby Lappeenranta and Mikkeli towns sell everything from local pickles and Finnish caviar to fresh strawberries and meat pies. Masu. The town of Savonlinna, a 105-mile drive east, is worth a detour. It is home to a fortress and the birthplace of lerzi, a crescent-shaped pastry filled with meat and rice.
