Animated, warm, and easy-going are just three ways to describe the beautiful Italian region of Puglia. The heel of the boot became a crossroads of culture - first with the Greeks, then the Romans who brought the Appian Way, followed by the Byzantines, Normans, Arabs, and Spanish. Each group imprinted on the area, giving Puglia an exotic blend of cultures. Puglia produces a diverse array of crops like tomatoes, eggplant, peppers, figs, citrus, melons, and almonds, all ripening under that southern Adriatic sun. The region is widely known for being a major producer of olive oil and wine and of course, you can eat your weight in the famous Pugliese pasta, orecchiette. The region is home to “the Pearl of the Adriatic” that is making headlines this year.
The stunning seaside town of Polignano a Mare, in the province of Bari, beat major competition from 220 countries to place first on the Booking.com list for “The Most Welcoming Cities on Earth 2023”. This distinguished award goes to destinations that are committed to providing tourists and guests with the highest levels of hospitality and customer service throughout the year.
The sunshine, food, and wine must be what make the locals so friendly and an example of how to enjoy life. The heel of Italy jets out into the Adriatic and Ionian seas with 500 miles of coastline, with countless gorgeous and exotic towns along the way. In addition to the kindness of its people, Polignano a Mare captivates visitors with a unique mix of natural attractions, cultural events, and traditions that will take you back in time. It’s no wonder the region offers some of the best beaches, best food, and best festivals throughout the Italian peninsula.
Built on a steep rugged cliff overlooking the Adriatic Sea, Polignano a Mare is like a mesmerizing love affair as you walk through its small alleys, admire the white-washed piazze with balconies blooming, and take in the famous view from the top of the rocks while enjoying traditional focaccia “barese”.
Visitors have the opportunity to live and eat like a local during their stay in Polignano a Mare. Hotels and vacation rentals are scattered among the homes of local people. Locals in this area are fond of visitors and tourists taking an interest in their work, traditions, festivals and the history of their town. The best way to enjoy authentic Pugliese life is during the summer season - early in the morning and late in the evening is the optimal time to blend in with local culture and experience the authenticity of the town. As a tour operator, Chef Marcello Russodivito tells us that Polignano a Mare is one of his favorite towns in this part of Italy. He looks forward to bringing more visitors to explore the region on his tour through Puglia & Matera in order to give his clients a one of a kind Italian adventure.
Imagine sitting outside at a café, sipping your cappuccino and salivating at the site of the perfect cornetto. Visiting a bakery, deli, or produce market is always a treat. For lunch, there is never a shortage of meats and cheeses, fresh bread, fruit, and local wine. A popular place to check out in Polignano a Mare is a “pescaria”, which sells seafood. While the weather is warm, take advantage of regular trips to a gelateria. It’s always recommended to go where the locals go. Visiting shops, restaurants, and cafes in town are wonderful places to ask for recommendations where you’ll discover the best places and the right price.
When you arrive in Polignano a Mare and the rest of Puglia, you’ll be greeted with a warm friendly welcome, as you would your own family. After describing all its magic, there is no question that Polignano a Mare is truly the most welcoming city in the world.
Arianna DiCicco
Arianna DiCicco is an educator and writer from California, born into an Italian American restaurant family with strong ties to her grandparents’ home in Abruzzo, Italy. She has lived in San Francisco, Rome and New York City where she’s made deep connections within the Italian communities and gained new perspectives about her own culture. With a Masters in International Education, Arianna has a love and passion for learning and educating others about Italian history & culture.