Over the past 15 years or so I’ve spent much of my time travelling the country for Lonely Planet. I’ve covered countless kilometres on foot and traversed the boot by plane, train, ferry, car and, on one terrifying occasion, riding shotgun on a scooter in Naples.

So while it may be some time before Italy re-opens to visitors, here’s why I think we should all carpe diem (seize the day) and return to the bel paese (beautiful country).