I'm a UK-based freelance travel writer and photographer - and the country I most like to visit is Italy. That's not just because of the friendly people, rich culture and stunning scenery - it's also because of the wonderful Italian cuisine. It's fresh, full of flavor - and brilliant if you're a vegetarian like me. I'm based in London, where the food has improved enormously in recent years, and I enjoy trying and testing Italian restaurants and cafes over here – and in other parts of the world. However, there's nothing to beat eating out –and drinking - in Italy itself. Although I love exploring Italy - and the UK, I travel all over the world and write for a wide range of publications. I love city breaks, rail travel and wildlife. I regularly contribute to national newspapers such as the Daily Express, Sunday Express and Independent on Sunday, and the London based Evening Standard, and to magazines such as BBC History. I also write for internet sites like worldtravelguide, and particularly enjoy writing and researching audio guides and podcasts. You might hear them at stately homes like Hampton Court and Kenilworth, or at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. I have written or contributed to over 40 guidebooks, on subjects that vary from walking in Eastern Scotland, to exploring Tuscany. I've worked for most major publishers, including Dorling Kindersley, Footprint, Thomas Cook, the AA and Insight. I've won awards for my work from the Italian Tourist Board, the British Guild of Travel Writers and the Lucca Tourist Board. I'm also a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society. You can see more on my website https://essayhelpontime.com/essay-writer/ and can see samples of my work at travel intelligence. Travel for me is about people, as well as places - and a country's cuisine is a product of both. What I like about Italian food is that it’s wonderfully simple, based on high-quality ingredients, and prepared with passion and good humor. In Italy, food is an experience – an integral part of the country’s culture. And I’m as keen on finding the best gelateria as the best gourmet restaurant. I’ll pass on all I can about Italy’s restaurants and cafes, food and wine producers, food trails, recipes, cookbooks – and the people behind them. I'll also tell you about great Italian eateries in the UK and other countries too. I’ve still got lots to learn and discover – so if you’ve anything you’d like to share with everyone, feel free to contribute. Check out the Italian cuisine page, contribute to discussions or email me.