Five Ways Travel Inspires Writing

Terracotta tiles, soaring medieval towers, huge duomos, the lush landscapes of Florence, Siena, Cinque Terre, and the Tuscany area of Italy still fill my mind.

Travel refreshes. It pushes the borders of one’s mind and taste buds out into new frontiers.

When my eyes took in the scenery in Italy I was inspired to write and share some photos with you.

The landscapes inspire. Green comes in hundreds of shades: the olive tree, broad grape leaves, deep green shutters against sunbaked yellow walls.

Architecture evokes time’s past and juxtaposes the present. Medieval towers with black iron gates, alabaster and pink marble churches, french gothic mixed with romanesque styles dating from the 1200’s, crumbling fortress walls with Smart-cars parked beneath.

Indigenous food. Fat ribbons of pastas, creamy cheeses, dense chocolate, velvety panna cotta with limoncello, berries that vibrate with color.

The everyday scenes. Gatti’s (cats) sunning, elderly ladies sweeping, the high shrill of horns honking, and the voices selling wares, “the best in…”

And I cannot forget the wine, especially the Brunello wine from the Abbadia Ardenga Winery. Mario, the 86 year-old owner was our host. His wife, our chef. You can read about him here.

Landscapes, architecture, food, everyday scenes,

and finding treasures like this poetry in San Gimignano are five ways travel inspired me to write today.