barbers’ stories

Legend has it that Kraków was founded by defeating a dragon, and it is a city that oozes magic in its medieval streets and squares, in its ancient university on the banks of the Vistula River and the Kazimierz, the historical district where the Jewish and Christian communities have coexisted for centuries. Nowadays, between museums and synagogues, old buildings, and small stores, this district is brimming with life. The lively atmosphere is fueled by the numerous cafés, restaurants, and clubs – making it one of the most vibrant places in the city. The mythical history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site merges with some grey remnants of Real Socialism and the modernity of an increasingly growing economy, thus giving rise to a unique setting. Trams and trains of the latest generations, an extended network of cycle paths, and sought-after but fair-priced hotels and restaurants ensure a comfortable and affordable stay for all visitors.

Leaving the city, get ready to be dazzled by majestic nature filled with lakes, remote countryside areas, mountains, and forests, and two must-see places from 20thcentury history: Schindler’s factory (now an interactive museum), the man who saved hundreds of Jews, celebrated in Steven Spielberg’s film and Nowa Huta, an experiment of the ideal city in socialist architecture built from scratch in the 1950s next to the country’s largest steelworks, where you can still drive a pastel-colored Trabant, visit one of the few remaining milk bars and voyage into a time that no longer exists.

Nestled in the Venetian Prealps hills in the Vicenza province is Valdagno, a small gem on the River Agno, boasting Medieval and Renaissance architecture. Steeped in nature (a 10-minute drive takes you to the ski slopes and 20 minutes to the Little Dolomites), Valdagno also enjoys a lively culture that gravitates around the 18th-century Palazzo Festari. This cultural hub is home to a Modern Art Gallery, the Super Theatre, and La Favorita Park, both of rationalist design. It hosts international jazz and contemporary art festivals, offering unique experiences for the culturally inclined.

The heart of Valdagno beats in its looms and tanneries. The NUMAT (Textile Machinery Museum) is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, showcasing the industrial archaeology machinery used to produce quality textiles by the company founded by the Marzotto family in 1836. The town also boasts small handicrafts of excellence, specializing in the processing of wool and the stitching of premium leathers for Made in Italy haute couture and luxury automotive.

And when you want to unplug, you’ll find yourself surrounded by the company of others, as is typical of the Veneto region. The local culture revolves around social gatherings, often around a good glass – in this case biancorosso. This liqueur apéritif can only be found at Carlotto, a quaint 100-year-old liqueur and spirits producer, a favorite haunt of young people.

Surprisingly off the beaten tourist tracks, Guildford is a town of sixty thousand inhabitants that ranks high for the best quality of life in the United Kingdom. Living and working here means being surrounded by the countryside and yet being in London in just 40 minutes and a little more on England’s sunny south coast. With the hill dominated by the mighty keep of the Norman castle, Guildford maintains the laid-back atmosphere of towns crossed by the river, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful cruise.
At the same time, as the sun goes down, the pubs on the High Street bustle with live music, paving the way for a buzzing but safe nightlife, as evidenced by the Purple Flag, awarded to cities where it is safe to walk after dark. Other unique features of Guildford include the nearby headquarters of the British Formula One McLaren racing team, the local vineyards that produce award-winning wines, and the stately summer residence of English royalty. Not to be missed is the discovery that Polesden Lacey, a villa near Great Bookham, near Guildford, is home to the marvelous Miracle of the Snow (1472), a tempera on panel painting by Perugino—a piece of Italian Renaissance in the heart of the leafy Surrey.