After graduating from Boston University with a degree in hospitality, I spent a year living in the Swiss Alps as a ski instructor, just a chairlift ride from the Italian Border. I often skied into Cervinia and Valtournenche, where long lunches on the mountain sparked my love for Italian food. On days off, I’d hop on the train to Milan, wandering its stylish streets, and unwind in the lakeside gardens around Como.
These experiences deepened my appreciation for the way culture, food and scenery come together in Italy. Whether it’s discovering a family-run osteria serving the perfect cacio e pepe or stepping into a quiet church to find a centuries-old fresco behind the altar, I love finding those small moments that stay with you.
Q&A with Margaret
What’s the best local dish you’ve tasted?
One of the best local dishes I’ve ever tasted was a risotto with smoked eel, honey, oregano and chamomile in Rome. The smokiness of the eel balanced nicely with the floral notes of chamomile and the subtle sweetness of the honey. This risotto was creative but still felt grounded in tradition and each spoonful left me wanting more!
What’s your most vivid travel moment?
One of my most vivid travel moments was staying at a small chalet B&B near Interlaken with my boyfriend. Our host made us Beatenberg beef burgers from scratch, topped with goat cheese and alpine herbs, and served them on the terrace as the sun dipped behind the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. The scent of the grill mixed with the crisp mountain air, and the only sounds were cowbells in the distance and the occasional rustle from the neighborhood cats weaving between the chairs. We ate slowly, overlooking Lake Thun far below, wrapped in blankets as the light changed across the valley. It felt like everything had slowed down, in the best possible way.
Your best piece of travel advice
When choosing a restaurant while traveling, decide what matters more at that moment: the view or the food. Don’t expect both to be exceptional. In my experience, the places with jaw-dropping views often rely on the setting to impress, while the truly memorable meals are usually tucked away on side streets, away from the crowds but might not necessarily have the best ambiance. Knowing which experience you’re after helps avoid disappointment and leads to much more satisfying choices.