MY 4 FAVOURITE PLACES TO VISIT IN PUGLIA

Nestled in the southern region of Italy, Puglia captivates visitors with its stunning coastline, unique local architecture and - as expected in Italy - amazing food choices. With mesmerizing sea views, fantastic cuisine and a landscape that inspires roadtrips enthusiasts, this region of Italy offers a unique and unforgettable experience. I want to show you the best places to visit in Puglia, which I also had had the pleasure of filming for Channel 4's 'A New Life in the Sun'.

I first visited Puglia around 12 years ago. My ex-boyfriend John was an art director on a film called 'Walking on sunshine' . It's an easy-on-the-eye and on the ear) (musical that takes place in this part of Italy. It's got semi-known British and American actors starring in it, covers of Whitney Houston songs plus a love story all in one. I don't think it rates high on IMDB, but you can watch it to get into a happy holiday mode.

POLIGNANO A MARE

Let's start with Polignano a Mare, which is beautifully situated atop towering cliffs overlooking the sparkling Adriatic Sea. Polignano with its whitewashed houses in narrow alleyways and breathtaking vistas make it a must-visit destination if you're in Puglia. Walking through the historic center, you feel like being transported to a bygone era or a Fellini film set. And the below photo of the city beach surrounded is iconic.

Aside from its charming aesthetics, Polignano a Mare is famous for its adrenaline-inducing Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series. Spectators gather in awe as divers gracefully plunge from the cliffs into the crystal-clear waters below. So if you're into extreme sports, beginning of July 2023 is the time to come here.

OSTUNI

I spent a couple of months based in Ostuni. Known as the "White City," Ostuni enchants visitors with its gleaming white coloured buildings that dazzles under the sun. Perched on a hilltop, the town offers panoramic views of the surrounding olive groves, truly (see next paragraph) and the glistening sea. Be sure to savor the flavors of local specialties such as fresh seafood and the renowned local olive oil, which is considered among the best in Italy (though there's a few regions that 'fight' for the title :)

ALBEROBELLO

Alberobello is a must day trip. It's totally a fairytale village! This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its unique ‘trulli’ - traditional limestone houses with conical roofs. Walking through the town, one can't help but feel transported to a magical realm. Alberobello's trulli have become iconic symbols of Puglia and attract visitors from around the world. Also try the local pastries. I usually go for corentto con crema. I don't think it's a Puglian delicacy as it's served all over Italy... anyway, it's this brioche-style, croissant-shaped bun with a filling of choice. And I love it when it's still served warm, straight from the oven!

Talking of food, Puglia's culinary scene is a feast for the senses. The region's cuisine is rooted in simplicity, emphasizing the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From the renowned burrata cheese to the fragrant and robust Primitivo wine, Puglia offers a wide array of flavors to please every palate.

BONUS: MATERA

While not technically part of Puglia, a trip to the neighborinng region of Basilicata is well worth the journey to visit Matera. Carved into the rugged cliffs, Matera is a place of extraordinary beauty and historical significance. Its unique architecture, known as "Sassi," consists of ancient cave dwellings that were inhabited for thousands of years. It's a city 'carved' into stone.

Matera gained international recognition when it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site and served as the backdrop for numerous films, including Mel Gibson's "The Passion of the Christ." It also features in the James Bond 'No time to die'. The city's remarkable transformation has turned it into a cultural hub, where visitors can explore the Sassi districts, marvel at the rock churches and delve into the region's fascinating past.

So I recommend, browse Skyscanner for tickets and pack your bags :) Be it a weekend or a week (or even more), embark on an adventure and discover the wonders of Puglia for yourself! :)