Destination: Roma

Begin the day with a walk in the Borghese Gardens in the heart of Rome. And perhaps take in some art at Scuderie del Quirinale, also known as the papal stables, which currently has a beautiful exhibit of Balthus.

Stroll in Testaccio for an off the beaten path experience of Rome and stop by the Testaccio Food Market to whet your appetite. Lunch at Perilli can linger for hours as you indulge in varied salumi and local greens like Puntarelle for antipasti and a primi of Bucatini all'Amatriciana followed by their flavorful lamb shoulder. Via Marmorata, 2.

More lunch tips: Babette Via Margotta, 3 near Piazza dell Popolo; Trattoria Settiamo all'Arancio Via dell'Arancio, 50 near Piazza di Spagna. 

Via dell'Oca just off of Piazza dell Popolo is a charming street with unique independent boutiques like Artisanal Cornucopia, Laura Urbinati and Bomba. Step into Artisanal Cornucopia for a curated selection of Turkish, Italian and New York based artisanal accessories, home accents and more. Be sure to meet the elegant owner of the space, Elif Sallorenzo, and hear about upcoming trunkshows. Pick up an evil eye for your home or an Angel Wings necklace for yourself or as a gift - or both! Via dell'Oca 38A.

It's time for an aperitivo down the street at Hotel Locarno which has a charming courtyard garden where you can sip mixed cocktails or a classic aperol spritz. Via della Penna 22.

More aperitivo tips - Salotto 42 with a beautiful view of Piazza di Pietra; speakeasy Jerry Thomas Vicolo Cellini, 30, cafe to bar Urbana 47 on Via Urbana, 47.