In the world of international commerce, the chance to travel beyond one’s country has become a reality for many professionals. Overseas business trips are not just an opportunity to build partnerships and improve operations, but they also provide the unique experience of immersing oneself in a different culture. And among the most enchanting places to visit for business (and pleasure) is the city of Verona in Italy. Beyond its rich history, its dynamic food scene, and its charmingly narrow streets are enough to whet any traveler’s appetite for exploration.
Table of Contents
The Romance of Verona
Renowned as the setting of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” Verona effuses romance with its well-preserved historic architecture, gardens, and scenery. But other attractions will surely catch your eye. This might be an opportune time to visit the Verona Opera. Known officially as the Arena di Verona, it is an open-air Roman amphitheater regarded for its internationally acclaimed opera performances. Imagine the thrill of watching a classical opera, under the stars, in a venue dating back to the 1st Century AD.
Feasting on Veronese Cuisine
After a long day of meetings, sit down to a mouth-watering Veronese meal. Traditional dishes, rich in flavor, are the pride of this city. Try the risotto al tastasal, a raw pork sausage risotto dish that is both hearty and delicious. Don’t miss the Pastissada de Caval, a horse meat stew seasoned with cloves, cinnamon, and red wine, simmered to tender perfection. And of course, you must enjoy a tumbler or two of Valpolicella, the local red wine that pairs well with these Veronese dishes.
Shopping in the City Center
A leisurely stroll around Verona’s historic city center can offer serendipitous finds. You could start at the Via Mazzini, a well-trodden, marble-paved shopping street that stretches between the Arena and Piazza delle Erbe. Luxury boutiques, bookstores, and mouth-watering gelato shops line the street, providing ample opportunities for indulging both your wardrobe and your sweet tooth.
Escape to Lake Garda
If your schedule permits, utilize your downtime for a short trip to Lake Garda. A mere 25 kilometers from Verona, Italy’s largest lake can provide a calming respite away from the hectic corporate world. The lakeside towns of Sirmione and Bardolino are particularly recommended for the myriad of watersports, restaurants, and tourist attractions they have to offer.
Exploring Verona by Bike
To get an unfiltered experience of Verona, consider a bicycle tour of the city. There are guided tours which can take you to the key sites, including Piazza delle Erbe, Castelvecchio, Forte San Pietro, and of course, Juliet’s balcony. If preferred, you can ditch the group and take a solo ride along the Adige River for a peaceful evening.
Petite Excursions
If you crave a more active form of relaxation, Verona’s surrounding countryside is a natural playground for hiking, horseback riding and even paragliding. The Lessinia Natural Regional Park is a true antidote to boardroom boredom, offering green landscapes, caves, and a wide array of local flora and fauna.
Despite your hectic work schedule, remember that it’s important to make the most of your downtime. An overseas assignment in Verona, particularly, offers a wealth of activities to make your business trip more enjoyable and culturally enriching. Always remember, it’s not just about the work, it’s about embracing the variety of life’s experiences – even if it happens in between meetings.
