Some places are more than just destinations—they’re experiences that leave a lasting impression long after you’ve checked out. For me, Hotel Villa Cora in Florence, Italy is exactly that kind of place. To call it simply a hotel feels inadequate; it’s more like stepping into a carefully curated world, where every corner tells a story and every detail feels as though it was designed for the sheer joy of being admired.
I’ll never forget walking into my room for the first time. It was drenched in the most vibrant yellow hue—walls, décor, even the bathroom tiles radiated this quirky, mustard glow. Instead of being overwhelming, the color felt electric, bold, and joyfully chic. It was impossible not to smile. I instantly knew I’d never look at yellow the same way again. From that point on, I wanted everything in that happy, eclectic shade.
And then there was the bed. Enormous, plush, and impossible to leave, it was the kind of bed you sink into and never want to abandon, even for Florence waiting outside. Add to that the tub in my matching mustard bathroom—equal parts luxurious and playful—and I found myself falling in love with the art of simply staying in.
A Scene Straight Out of a Film
The entire villa felt like it had been plucked from a Wes Anderson movie set. Symmetry ruled the design: lamps came in perfect pairs, chairs faced each other like old friends, end tables stood in balanced harmony. Even the curtains fell just so, framing the space with cinematic precision.
As someone who lives and breathes photography, I found myself noticing every little detail as if I were composing a shot. Every angle seemed intentional, every corner worthy of capturing. It was a place where the ordinary became extraordinary just by virtue of its design.
Mornings Like Royalty
Each morning began with a breakfast that felt like a ritual. I’d wander down, still sleepy-eyed, only to be greeted by the sight of the steaming outdoor pool lined with Roman statues. Coffee in hand, I’d sink into the plush cushions of the dining chairs and feel, just for a moment, like royalty. The mix of grandeur and intimacy was intoxicating—elegant yet comfortable, regal yet welcoming.
Travel often reminds me how much joy can be found in the simplest of luxuries. At Villa Cora, the hotel itself was the highlight, followed closely (and in perfect Italian fashion) by the food, and then, of course, the fashion.
A Florence State of Mind
Florence always brings out my softer, more romantic side. Maybe it’s the history, maybe it’s the streets that seem designed for long walks and spontaneous daydreams. Or maybe it was just the atmosphere of Villa Cora rubbing off on me.
All I wanted to do was wrap myself in a beret, a scarf, and—confession—my hotel slippers. Sometimes, style is about confidence, and in Florence, I felt like I could pull off anything. The city invites you to lean into the drama, the elegance, and the romance.
Capturing the Story
My sister Dylana, always the storyteller behind the lens, filmed a short story during our stay. Watching her work against the backdrop of Villa Cora made me appreciate the space even more. Every shot she captured brought out the essence of the hotel—the playfulness of the colors, the symmetry of the design, and the understated glamour that runs through every detail.
Travel isn’t just about the places you go; it’s about the memories you create, the feelings you carry home, and the stories that unfold along the way. Villa Cora gave us more than just a stay—it gave us a narrative, one that felt rich, cinematic, and unforgettable.
Why Villa Cora Stays With Me
Looking back, what makes Hotel Villa Cora one of my favorite places isn’t just its beauty—it’s the way it made me feel. It reminded me that travel doesn’t always need to be about rushing to check off landmarks or filling every day with activities. Sometimes, the most rewarding part is simply soaking in where you are.
Whether it was lounging by the pool, indulging in long breakfasts, or sinking into the mustard-colored tub at the end of the day, Villa Cora gave me permission to slow down. To notice. To live a little bit in the world of symmetry, luxury, and playful color.
If Florence is the heart of Renaissance art and history, then Villa Cora is its modern, whimsical echo—a place where elegance meets eccentricity, and where staying in feels just as fulfilling as exploring the city outside.
So yes, Florence has my heart. But Villa Cora? It has my soul.
