Sisters Doris and Floor were born in Haarlem and now both live in Spaarndam, The Netherlands. They were around 6 and 8 years old when they first went to Italy, Lago di Garda, where they both have the most incredible memory of eating the biggest ice-creams ever.

Can you describe Italy in one sentence?

Floor describes Italy as ‘Eataly or Winely’ because it is all about the perfect food. Doris would describe Italy as the country of light colors, the warmth of big families, and the power of fairly simple dishes that give you an explosion of flavor with every bite.

What are your favourite places in Italy and why do you like it there?

Lago di Garda has a special place in both of their hearts, and Lasize feels like coming home to them. Doris dreams of buying a small home in Lasize one day. A single favourite place in Italy is hard to tell. They have a long list of favorite places, Floor says it is because of the warmth of the climate, but also the people. The wonderful language, but especially the wine and the food.

Your favourite dish, hotel and restaurant?

Their favorite dishes are by far Tiramisu, Pasta Vongole and Pizza. They prefer restaurants as much Italian as possible, in a narrow side street with uncomfortably seated chairs but where the food is amazing. Doris “If you are ever in Puglia, Polignano A Mare: choose Ristorante Grotta Palazzese! It is a dream!”. Floor: “good places to sleep are Settignano Tuscany Homes and Borgo Santo Pietro. B&B Casa Palmieri in Monopoli.”

What would you like to say to someone who has never been to Italy?

“Go to Italy, get lost, enjoy and thank us later!”