Tags: set jetting, Italy Holidays, luxury travel, tour operator
On April 4, BAFTA winning actor and former 'hot priest' Andrew Scott will be coming to our screens once more in a new adaptation of Patricia Highsmith's Tom Ripley novels, entitled simply 'Ripley'. In true Scott style, his depiction of the devious Ripley looks set to be both gripping and unsettling, with the darkness of the plot amplified by the use of black and white cinematography. The series – which is rumoured to be potentially the first of five – also stars Johnny Flynn as Dickie Greenleaf, Dakota Fanning as Marge Sherwood and John Malkovich, who played Ripley in Ripley's Game (2002). It is directed by Steven Zaillan.
Shot on location in Venice, Capri, Ischia, Naples, Ischia and Palermo, as well as New York, the most recent trailers depict dramatic shots of the breathtaking Amalfi Coast as well as timeless images of Venice. Take inspiration and follow in Ripley's footsteps with one of the following holidays on offer from luxury tailor made specialists The Luxury Holiday Company, or their sister-company, Wexas Travel – all in full colour and with classic style.
Drive the Amalfi Coast in a vintage Alfa Romeo Spider
What could be more Ripley-esque than driving along the Blue Ribbon Road in a classic two-seater Alfa Romeo Spider. Italy's Amalfi Coast is one of Europe's true coastal gems, a region of soaring cliffs with pastel-hued towns and scented lemon groves. High above the sea, roads wind along these cliffs, linking glorious views by some of the Continent's most thrilling driving routes. This short break offers the chance to explore it all in retro-style, with a day at the wheel of this iconic sports car. Accommodation is at the stylish clifftop Villa Franca in Positano. With gorgeous coastal views and fine dining, it's the perfect base for a luxurious Amalfi Coast break.
The Luxury Holiday Company (020 7590 0674, www.theluxuryholidaycompany.com) offers this 4 day tailor-made break from £2,775 per person including flights, transfers, 3 nights accommodation at Villa Franca on a b&b basis, and a full day car hire of an Alfa-Romeo Spider sports car.
The Italian Job: Rome, Florence & Venice
Discover the fabulous food, history and romance of Italy on this 5 night itinerary which takes in the three incredible cities of Rome, Florence and Venice, all linked together with relaxing train travel. Soak up Rome's ancient civilisation, Florence's medieval beauty and Venice's floating wonders including a gondola ride through the canals. With included expert tours of Rome and Venice, first class train travel and stays in handpicked perfectly located hotels, it's an ideal way to sample a taste of these classic Italian cities.
Wexas Travel (020 7838 5892, wexas.com) offers this 5 night Italian Job itinerary from £1795 per person including flights, UK airport lounge access, airport transfers, rail tickets, a Rome sightseeing tour, a walking tour of Venice, 2 nights at the Baglioni Regina Hotel in Rome, 1 night at the Relais Santa Croce in Florence and 2 nights at the Baglioni Luna Hotel in Venice, all on a bed and breakfast basis.
Retreat to Capri's quieter neighbour: Ischia
What better place to lose yourself than on the beautiful volcanic island of Ischia, known as the Isola Verde (green island). Renowned for its natural thermal pools, lush vineyards and gardens, this natural spa island is much quieter than its neighbour Capri, with hidden coves, sweeping views across the Bay of Naples and delicious local wines and fresh seafood to enjoy.
New for Wexas for 2024 is the delightful Botania Relais & Spa. Nestled in 30,000m2 of lush parkland on island's north coast, it's a short hop from the sandy beach of San Montano, Nagombo thermal park, and the quaint coastal town of Lacco Ameno at the foot of Mt. Epomeo.
Stay long enough to while away a day or two lounging by the gorgeous pool and enjoy some pampering spa treatments, including thermal water and beauty treatments, a sauna and Turkish bath, massages and natural scrubs. Dining is also a treat, with delicious breakfasts of home-made pastries and bread, fresh fruit and local jams and honey; light lunches and sumptuous dinners created from fresh local ingredients, which in summer are served by candlelight under the pergola.
Wexas Travel (www.wexas.com, 020 8125 4219) offers seven nights at Botania Relais & Spa from £1630 per person. Price includes 7 nights in a premium room on a B&B basis, complimentary UK airport departure, lounge access, return flights between UK and Naples and return transfers to the hotel.