Liz Shemaria is an Italy-based journalist and third-generation Northern Californian who has trekked solo in Himalaya, interviewed artists in military-ruled Burma, and once rode an overnight train across Egypt on her birthday. She has contributed to more than a dozen travel and news publications, including Fodor's guidebooks, AFAR, BBC Travel, and Roads & Kingdoms. Spontaneous dance parties are essential to her creative process.

Top itineraries and travel advice

Taste of Italy: Florence, Pisa, Venice, Cinque Terre - 12 days
From Tuscany to Veneto to the Italian Riviera, this 12-day itinerary is perfect for indulgent travelers who want to see and taste the best of Italy. You'll start in Northern...