Here’s what I love… Italian travels

This was a bit of surprise; an Italian sojourn in September.

Along with a handful of Calgary interior designers I am thrilled to be attending the Abitare il Tempo design show in Verona next week. As a guest of the Destination Design trade mission for Calgary interior designers offered by the Foreign Trade Development Agency, I will have access to vendors, behind the scenes factory tours and the opportunity to meet one on one with Italian manufacturers and suppliers. What a treat!

I begin my journey with a few free days in Venice, wandering the canals. Following a tour of kitchen cabinet factory near Treviso, and spending the night in a Villa from the 1500’s (!!!) I travel to beautiful Verona.

Of course best known as the home to the Capulets and Monagues, but also iconic red tiled roofs, a stunning  and a Roman Arena still in use for open air Opera Performances. The group will be spending most of our time here for the trade show and supplier sponsored events. Isn’t it beautiful?

I finish up with a quick day in Milan {and oh maybe some shopping} before heading home.

I have an inkling of what is in store for me having attending trade shows before, but I am looking forward to the exclusive factory tours and one on one meetings with Italian suppliers. Fabrics, flooring, lighting, furniture and fixture finds are all waiting for discovery.  I anticipate bringing back not only product lines to specify, but also inspiration galore.

…after all  it is Italy.