Named the “Pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea,” located on a stretch of coastline called “The Coast of the Gods,” and having been awarded, a few years back, the title of “The Most Beautiful Village of Italy,” Tropea, a seaside town in Calabria, could easily disappoint by not living up to the very high expectations that such majestic superlatives convey. But short of leaving anything to be desired, Tropea, at once humble and divine, fills your heart with desire.

A trip to this scenic Calabrian paradise caused me to consider writing a break-up letter to NYC, my home base, and googling, “How quickly can I get Italian citizenship?” Tropea boasts some of the best beaches in Italy, minus the crowds. White sand and turquoise water merge in a sea of tranquility; dramatic cliffs and breathtaking sunsets complete this idyllic setting.