Follow Liz’s Footsteps, Fork in Hand

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If you’ve ever fantasised about adopting Elizabeth Gilbert’s persona as she wrote “Eat Pray Love“, we’ve compiled a DIY tasting tour of key scenes and locations that inspired Liz’s transformative journey. Pack your best walking shoes and an appetite for existential musings for the chance to eat your way across Italy. Gifted adventurers may also experience possible opportunities for romance, but not guaranteed.

Day 1-2: Rome – The Eternal Feast

Scene: Liz arrives in Rome, a vulnerable woman on the brink of rediscovery. Armed with nothing but a suitcase and an insatiable appetite for life (and carbs). She wanders through the sun-drenched streets, her eyes wide with wonder, her stomach growling with anticipation. In Piazza Navona, she sips her first real Italian espresso, the bitter liquid jolting her senses awake. It’s here she meets Sofi, a free-spirited Swede who becomes her partner in culinary crime.

Together, they embark on a gastronomic adventure that would make even the most seasoned foodie weep with joy. They devour pizza al taglio, the crisp crust giving way to molten cheese and tangy tomato sauce. They slurp spaghetti alle vongole, twirling the pasta around their forks with the expertise of true Romans. And let’s not forget the gelato – oh, the gelato! Liz discovers that happiness can indeed be found at the bottom of a cone of stracciatella.

But it’s not all about the food. Liz grapples with the concept of “Dolce far niente” – the sweetness of doing nothing. She learns to savour moments of stillness amidst the bustling city. Whether it’s people-watching in a piazza or admiring the play of light on ancient marble.

In a memorable scene, Liz struggles to zip up her jeans, a battle many of us know all too well. Instead of despair, she embraces her curves, buying a larger size with a shrug and a smile. It’s a small moment, but one that speaks volumes about self-acceptance and the joy of living in the present.

Why Visit?

Rome is a feast for the senses, with photographic opportunities as abundant as its trattorias.

Photographic Opportunities:

1. Piazza Navona: Capture the vibrant energy of this iconic square at sunrise when the light casts a golden glow on the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi. Focus on the intricate details of Bernini’s sculptures for a shot that captures Rome’s artistic grandeur.
2. Castel Sant’Angelo: Head to the terrace for panoramic views of Rome. Photograph the cityscape as Liz did, contemplating new beginnings with St. Peter’s Basilica in the distance.
3. Jewish Ghetto: Explore this historic neighbourhood for candid street photography. Capture locals going about their day amidst ancient ruins and bustling markets.
4. Borghese Gardens: Find peace in these lush gardens. Perfect for capturing serene landscapes or practicing portrait photography with friends against a backdrop of greenery.
5. Via dell’Orso: Snap a photo of the quaint water fountain where Liz paused during her Roman wanderings. It’s a charming reminder of life’s simple pleasures.

Hotels:

• Dharma Boutique Hotel & Spa: Liz might have found inner peace here, if only she could stop obsessing over the thread count of the sheets.
• Hotel Santa Maria: A place where your inner Liz might pretend to be a local, while secretly Googling “how to order coffee in Italian without embarrassing yourself.”
• Hotel Barocco: For those keen on collecting fancy toiletries.

Restaurants:

• Caffè Domiziano: The go-to spot for perfecting Liz’s “contemplative writer” pose while secretly eavesdropping on every conversation within earshot.
• Antica Trattoria della Pace: A culinary stage to re-enact Liz’s attempts at graceful spaghetti twirling, and to leave wearing most of it.
• Alvaro Ristorante: The birthplace of Liz’s “pizza epiphany,” revealing carbs as the true path to enlightenment.

Getting There: Fly into Rome’s Fiumicino Airport and take the Leonardo Express train to Roma Termini (30 minutes). From there, embrace your inner Liz and wander wherever your heart (and stomach) leads you.

Day 3-4: Naples – Pizza Pilgrimage

Scene: Liz journeys south to Naples, the birthplace of pizza, in search of culinary nirvana. Her destination? L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele, a no-frills establishment that’s been serving up slices of heaven since 1870. As she waits in line, the anticipation builds. Will this pizza live up to the hype?

Finally seated, Liz orders a simple Margherita pizza. The waiter, a gruff Neapolitan with eyes that have seen a thousand pizzas come and go, nods approvingly. When the pizza arrives, steam rising from its perfectly charred crust, Liz takes a moment to appreciate its beauty. The vibrant red of the tomatoes, the creamy white of the mozzarella, the verdant basil leaves – it’s the Italian flag in edible form.

She takes a bite, and time stands still. The flavors explode in her mouth – the sweet acidity of the tomatoes, the richness of the cheese, the slight char of the crust. It’s a revelation. In this moment, Liz realizes that sometimes, happiness is as simple as dough, tomato, and mozzarella.

But Naples isn’t just about pizza. Liz wanders through the chaotic streets, dodging Vespas and gesticulating locals. She marvels at the contrast between the gritty, graffiti-covered walls and the ornate baroque churches. In the Spanish Quarter, she gets lost in a maze of narrow alleys hung with laundry, the very essence of Neapolitan life on display.

At the bustling Pignasecca market, Liz samples fresh mozzarella di bufala. Its milky sweetness a perfect counterpoint to the briny olives and sun-dried tomatoes. She watches in awe as a sfogliatella is prepared, the delicate layers of pastry folded with the precision of origami, then filled with sweet ricotta.

Why Visit?

Naples is a city where food is an art form and every meal is an opportunity for enlightenment.

Photographic Opportunities:

1. L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele: Capture the bustling atmosphere inside this legendary pizzeria. Focus on the pizzaiolos at work or diners experiencing their own pizza epiphanies.
2. Spaccanapoli: Wander this narrow street for vibrant street photography opportunities. Capture locals navigating scooters through throngs of shoppers and tourists.
3. Castel dell’Ovo: Head to this seaside castle for stunning views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius in the background. A perfect spot for landscape photography.
4. Piazza del Plebiscito: Photograph this grand square at dusk when it’s illuminated by soft evening light. Creating dramatic silhouettes against historic architecture.
5. San Gregorio Armeno: Explore this famous street known for its nativity scenes and artisan shops. Ideal for capturing unique cultural details.

Hotels:

• Grand Hotel Vesuvio: Chanel Liz practicing her “I’m totally a sophisticated traveler” face in the mirror, before tripping over her own suitcase.
• Romeo Napoli: A hotel so stylish, it would make Liz question every fashion choice she’s ever made, including that regrettable “Eat Pray Love” t-shirt.
• Hotel Excelsior: The type of establishment where Liz might attempt to recreate “Roman Holiday,” only to realize there’s only one Audrey Hepburn.

Restaurants:

• L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele: A pizzeria so good, it could tempt you to legally change your name to Margherita and publish a book about it on Amazon.
• Pizzeria Antonio e Gigi Sorbillo: Teaching Liz and her fans that “just one more slice” is both a promise and a threat.
• Trattoria da Nennella: Relive Liz’s attempts at ordering in Italian and at the same time accidentally propose marriage to the waiter.

Getting There: Take a high-speed train from Rome to Napoli Centrale (1-2 hours). Once there, let your nose guide you to the nearest pizzeria—it’s what Liz would do.

Day 5-6: Florence – Art and Appetite

Scene: Liz finds herself in Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, where art and beauty abound at every corner. She wanders through the Uffizi Gallery, her eyes drinking in the masterpieces that line the walls. Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus” captivates her, and she stands transfixed, contemplating the painting’s depiction of rebirth and transformation—a fitting metaphor for her own journey.

Outside the gallery, Liz strolls across the Ponte Vecchio, the iconic bridge lined with glittering jewellery shops. The Arno River flows beneath her, a reminder of life’s constant motion. She pauses to admire the view, feeling a sense of peace as she watches the sun dip below the horizon.

Florence is a feast for the eyes and also the taste buds. Liz indulges in ribollita, a hearty Tuscan soup that warms her soul as much as her stomach. She savours bistecca alla fiorentina, marvelling at how something so simple can be so satisfying. Each meal is a celebration of flavour and a testament to the region’s rich culinary heritage.

In a moment of spontaneity, Liz joins a group of locals for an impromptu dance in Piazza della Signoria. As she twirls under the stars, surrounded by laughter and music, she realises that joy can be found in unexpected places.

Why Visit?

Florence is a city where art meets appetite—a place where every corner offers inspiration and every meal is a masterpiece.

Photographic Opportunities:

1. Ponte Vecchio at Sunset: Capture this iconic bridge bathed in golden light, with reflections dancing on the Arno River below.
2. Uffizi Gallery Courtyard: While photography isn’t allowed inside most galleries, you can capture stunning architectural shots from outside or within courtyards like those at Uffizi Gallery or Palazzo Pitti nearby.
3. Mercato Centrale di San Lorenzo: Explore this bustling market for candid shots of vendors selling fresh produce or artisans crafting traditional Florentine goods—ideal for capturing local culture up close!
4. Boboli Gardens Viewpoint: Head up into these lush gardens behind Palazzo Pitti where panoramic views await you over Florence’s rooftops towards distant hills beyond—a breathtaking vista worth capturing!
5. Duomo Rooftop Views: Climb up onto Brunelleschi’s Dome atop Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral (Duomo) for unparalleled views over Florence’s skyline below—a must-see perspective not easily forgotten!

Hotels:

• Brunelleschi Hotel: Ponder the meaning of life while staring at the Duomo, or more likely, while trying to figure out the complicated shower controls.
• Hotel Savoy: A place so posh, you will experience a crash course in how to appreciate cutlery ahead of the dinner.
• The St. Regis Florence: The perfect place for an existential crisis in the most luxurious surroundings possible, complete with a view of the Arno.

Restaurants:

• Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori: Proving to Liz that wine is an excellent listener and an even better therapist.
• Trattoria Mario: The epicenter for realization that “eating her feelings” is not just a saying, but a delicious reality.
• All’ Antico Vinaio: Proving that a sandwich can be a religious experience, minus the guilt and plus the prosciutto.

Getting There: Take a high-speed train from Naples to Firenze Santa Maria Novella station (approx 3 hours). Once arrived, prepare yourself mentally and physically—you’re about to embark upon a gastronomic adventure unlike any other!

Day 7: Rome Revisited – Gelato & Goodbyes

Scene: As Liz’s Italian sojourn draws to a close, she returns to Rome, now familiar yet ever enchanting. The city feels different now—like an old friend with new stories to tell.

She revisits her favourite haunts with newfound appreciation. At San Crispino gelateria, Liz indulges in one last scoop of honey and hazelnut gelato, savouring each lick as if it were her last. The sweetness on her tongue is a reminder of all the joy she’s experienced in Italy.

In her final Roman feast, Liz indulges in a plate of cacio e pepe at a small trattoria off the beaten path. As she twirls the perfectly al dente spaghetti around her fork, she thinks about how something so simple—pasta, cheese, and pepper—can be so profoundly satisfying. It’s a metaphor for what she’s learned in Italy: that happiness often lies in life’s simple pleasures.

On her last night, Liz stands before the Trevi Fountain once more. The water sparkling under moonlight like thousands of tiny stars come down to earth just for this moment alone with her thoughts . She closes eyes , makes wish , tosses coin into fountain . As arcs through air , silently thanks Italy all has given — food , friendships , most importantly renewed zest life.

Why Visit?

Rome offers endless opportunities to capture essence ‘la dolce vita’ through a lens camera.

Photographic Opportunities:

1.San Crispino Gelateria : Snap candid moments patrons savouring scoops artisanal gelato – each flavour vibrant testament Italian craftsmanship .

2.Pantheon Interior Dome : Capture awe-inspiring oculus atop Pantheon dome – architectural marvel invites contemplation and wonder beneath its gaze .

3.Trevi Fountain Reflections : Photograph iconic fountain twilight hours when illuminated waters create magical reflections surrounding architecture .

4.Villa Borghese Gardens Sunset Views : Head up into these expansive gardens overlooking cityscape below – perfect spot watch sun set behind distant hills beyond .

5.Trastevere Street Life Scenes : Wander narrow streets Trastevere district capturing everyday life unfolding around you – locals chatting cafes , artists displaying wares , children playing piazzas .

Hotels:

• Hotel Eden: Liz might attempt to channel her inner Italian goddess, only to spill espresso all over her white linen pants.
• Hotel Hassler: Perfect place to pretend to be writing your bestseller, while actually just doodling “Mrs. Javier Bardem” in your notebook.
• The Westin Excelsior, Rome: A place for people watching and being seen, complete with possible awkward encounters in the elevator.

Restaurants:

• Ristorante Ai Cocci: Like Liz, they will tempt you to ditch your passport and become a professional pasta taster.
• Da Cicero: Here’s where you will perfect the art of the dramatic sigh over a plate of perfectly al dente pasta.
• Adesso Vineria-bistrot: Your classroom to brush up on wine knowledge and no judgement for secretly choosing based on the prettiest label.

Getting There: Return via high-speed train from Firenze Santa Maria Novella back southwards towards Roma Termini station (approx 90 minutes). 

Eat Pray Love follows Elizabeth Gilbert, a woman who embarks on a year-long journey of self-discovery following a difficult divorce. The “Eat” portion of her journey takes place in Italy, where she learns to embrace pleasure, primarily through food. She then travels to India for the “Pray” segment, focusing on spirituality, and finally to Bali for “Love,” where she finds balance and romance.

The book and film resonated with audiences worldwide due to its themes of self-discovery and personal growth. It taps into the universal desire for meaning and fulfillment, set against the backdrop of stunningly beautiful locations. Julia Roberts’ star power, combined with the already popular memoir it was based on, ensured its commercial success. The film also appeals to the armchair traveler in all of us, offering a vicarious journey through some of the world’s most enchanting destinations.

So, whether you’re seeking solace amidst the ruins of Rome or serenity on the shores of Bali, there’s always something magical waiting just around the corner when you open your heart and mind to the possibilities.