Destination Expert
Maria Grazia Ivona
I was born in Bari, and after high school I studied as a Food & Beverage Manager, which led me into the Hospitality industry. Since 2000 I have been able to work for three prestigious hotel chains, increasing my skills more and more. Since 2012 I have been self-employed as Property Manager and Real Estate Agent in both Puglia and Sardinia. In Fasano, where I started my company, I have managed more than 20 real estate units and a Masseria over the years. I graduated as a technician in the management of accommodation facilities and as a Mystery Guest, as I have always paid attention to details and ensured high quality in my work. I like being able to welcome guests to this splendid area, full of unique experiences and landscapes.
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Destination Expert
Maria Grazia Ivona
I was born in Bari, and after high school I studied as a Food & Beverage Manager, which led me into the Hospitality industry. Since 2000 I have been able to work for three prestigious hotel chains, increasing my skills more and more. Since 2012 I have been self-employed as Property Manager and Real Estate Agent in both Puglia and Sardinia. In Fasano, where I started my company, I have managed more than 20 real estate units and a Masseria over the years. I graduated as a technician in the management of accommodation facilities and as a Mystery Guest, as I have always paid attention to details and ensured high quality in my work. I like being able to welcome guests to this splendid area, full of unique experiences and landscapes.
Describe the perfect day in your destination?
I personally love having an al fresco breakfast under a patio overlooking a colourful garden, admiring the property and its details. It makes me feel peaceful. Then, I would plan a day trip to Lecce by visiting the centre by rickshaw (I love this type of guided tour). For lunch, I would prefer to have a street food speciality in Piazza Sant'Oronzo. To follow, late in the afternoon, I would visit Ostuni or Locorotondo not far from my home. The sunset makes their walls so bright. I would enjoy a short walk through their vicoletti, souvenir shops and then Apericena in one of the bistros playing music!
What are your top travel tips for your destination?
Beaches and boat trips (Polignano a Mare, Monopoli). Visit the Egnatia ruins and go diving to discover the old underwater village. Hike along the narrow roads and olive groves in the Parco delle Dune Costiere. Take a day trip to the Natural Reserve of Torre Guaceto. Enjoy cooking classes and food tasting in the local Masserie. Also find a Fasano tour guide with a handcraft labs experience.
What local cuisine would you recommend to people staying in your destination?
I recommend eating the Cialledda and Antipasto Pugliese as starters, so you can taste many of the local delicatessen. Our trattorie offer plenty of choices on their menus, but the best thing to do (in my personal opinion) is to trust in their hosts' suggestions, especially if the restaurant was recommended by us.
What experiences would you recommend to our customers in your destination?
I recommend the Egnatia museum, cooking classes, food tasting in Masseria, boat trips along the grottos in Polignano a Mare, hiking in the forest Bosco delle Pianelle, visiting Lecce by rickshaw, day trips to Natural Reserve of Torre Guaceto, and waiting for the sunrise at dawn on the beach whilst eating a pasticciotto or a fresh croissant.
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