 | Lama Monachile Cala Porto beach in Polignano a Mare | | | What is it about Italy? Every region has its own unique qualities beyond la dolce vita, and Puglia is no exception. The region is chock-a-block with so many places to visit and things to do, it can be a lot to throw your arms around. This is where our Elsewhere by Lonely Planet local expert, Emanuella Carletti, steps in. Emi is originally from Puglia – her sentimental attachment, paired with her travel-planning expertise, make her an ideal guide. “I try to give all my travelers a touch of Italian flair,” she told me during our recent chat. Time to start perfecting my pronunciation of these useful Italian phrases: Grazie! Prego! Andiamo! | | | | | Senior Director of Content | | | | | Elsewhere is Lonely Planet's premium boutique travel planning service. We pair you with a local expert, like Emi, who knows the ins and outs of a destination to guarantee the best trip ever. Just book your flights, and Elsewhere's travel experts will do the rest. And if you're wondering why you should work with Emi and her team of Italy-based, all-star planners, check out this five-star review! | “Really happy with Elsewhere, Emi and her team did an amazing job planning and executing this experience for our family. All the planned activities went thru without a hitch and all of the guides and drivers, the hotels, everything was a great experience. We could not have done it without Emi. Thank you!." – Ofelia F., Google Review | | | History, culture and cuisine intersect so elegantly across all of Italy. Read on for a few of Emi’s insider Puglia recommendations. | | | | | Emi’s favorite spot in Trani is its dramatic seafront Cathedral, dedicated to St Nicholas the Pilgrim. The 12th-century floor mosaic featuring Alexander the Great is unreal. | | | As for accommodation, Emi loves Lama di Luna in Alta Murgia, an organic masseria, one of the typical farmhouses open to guests. Enjoy communal farm-to-table meals with locals and fellow travelers. | | | | | | Another special place for Emi is Castel de Monte, one of Italy’s most intriguing medieval castles. Its mind-boggling octagonal design and unknown raison d’être make it a wonder to behold. | | | Tuscany was named one of the world's best regions on our annual list of top destinations. Find out why and check out the other winners. | | |  | Love travel inspiration in your inbox? | | | Share with a fellow travel lover by forwarding to a friend. Did someone share this email with you? Subscribe by clicking here. | | | This email was sent to you by: | Lonely Planet Publications Ltd. | 1101 Red Ventures Drive, Fort Mill, SC 29707 | | | |