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This week’s meal plan has a wide variety of meals and I made sure there was something for everyone! My family’s favorite is the Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup, you will love it!
This week has a wide variety of different foods. I covered all the bases with chicken, Asian, steak, seafood, and a delicious hearty soup! Don’t forget to add in a delicious dessert to the menu! I love anything with strawberries to follow up my yummy steak Diane!
Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken
Creamy Lemon Parmesan Chicken is an incredible restaurant-quality meal you can make in under 30 minutes. Tender, juicy chicken is smothered in a creamy lemon parmesan sauce- it’s a meal the family will go crazy for!
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Easy Teriyaki Noodles
Packed with flavor, these easy Teriyaki Noodles are so much better than takeout! Throw these together in just 20 minutes with pantry staples for the perfect busy weeknight dinner. You can keep it vegetarian or serve it alongside your favorite protein.
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Cheeseburger Soup
Award Winning Cheeseburger Soup is a thick and hearty soup with lean, tender ground beef, shredded carrots, diced celery and potatoes in a warm and creamy cheese soup. This is an award winning soup and it is excellent!
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Steak Diane
Juicy and succulent Steak Diane is the perfect dinner for any occasion. Diane refers to the delicious cream sauce made that includes mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and Cognac. The steak is flattened and seared in butter, and couldn’t be more flavorful!
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Pesto Salmon
Pesto Salmon is the BEST salmon you will ever make! Smothered in fresh basil pesto and soaked in roasted tomatoes, this salmon is then baked to perfection for a juicy and tender salmon fillet.
View Recipe
How Many Does it Feed?
This free weekly meal plan is just what you need to get your week started. It provides five meals that will feed 4-6 (depending on if you are feeding adults or kids), AND it includes a shopping list! With fresh new ideas and easy-to-make recipes, having a weekly menu plan will be a lifesaver.
Why Should I Meal Plan?
If you haven’t tried planning your meals ahead of time, this is going to be a game-changer for you! Here’s why I swear by meal planning:
Time Saver: No more 4:00 PM panic about dinner. With a menu plan, you know exactly what’s on the menu, what you need, and how long it takes to cook.
Money Saver: Meal planning works wonders for your wallet. When you organize your shopping list for the week, then you’ll easily spot opportunities to buy in bulk and creatively repurpose leftovers for future meals. It’s a clever approach that keeps more money in your pocket.
Bye-Bye Takeout: When your dinners are planned ahead of time and groceries are stocked, you’re less likely to hit the drive-thru. Because you are cooking at home, that means more savings and healthier eating. Win-win!
Side Dishes for Dinner
My weekly meal plans always include a printable shopping list that is measured out and ready to go. It makes things so easy!
Storing Leftovers for Meal Planning
I only meal plan Monday-Friday because we sometimes have plans over the weekend or I have leftovers that we can have to finish off the week! If you do have leftovers, make sure to store them properly in an airtight container in your fridge.
There aren’t many places in New Zealand that make me question my choice to live in Wānaka, but Golden Bay definitely did. Warm, sunny, and most importantly, cheap, Golden Bay piqued my interest as somewhere I could easily live comfortably. I’m just not sure I’m hippie enough to fit the local criteria, but more on that in a minute.
After finishing the Heaphy Track outside of Takaka, I caught the shuttle from Golden Bay Air to the airport, where I rented a car. These are the guys who organize the logistics and flights around the area. Takaka is approximately one million miles and $500 worth of petrol away from Wānaka, so when I heard you could rent a car there, I thought it would be a good chance to finally explore an area of New Zealand I rarely visit.
I’ll preface this by saying that the term “airport” is a stretch; it’s an office with a little runway, which I can’t remember if it was paved or not. These are small plane flights. It’s so chill and easy, exactly what you want on a holiday. The car was an old Honda that felt like you could take it anywhere. I rolled the windows down and hit the road to Takaka, the salty, warm air reminding me I was in paradise. It’s a place where you know that everyone knows each other’s names. And all of their business, too. Love it!
The first thing you need to know about Golden Bay is that it’s like stepping back to the 90s. Which is saying something because the rest of New Zealand also feels like a step back in time.
Every few streets, there are fruit stands with honesty boxes, and no one is in a rush to do anything. It’s such a nice feeling. Golden Bay is an area at the very tip-top of the South Island. It’s one of the sunniest areas of New Zealand and is home to some epic independent growers and farms. In fact, most of the top of the South Island is like that. I’m writing this as there is frost a centimeter thick coating my power bill is in the triple digits. Why Wānaka, why?!
Golden Bay is a huge bay that stretches from the top of the Abel Tasman National Park all the way out to Farewell Spit, a 26-kilometer-long sandspit. It forms almost a perfect “C” shape and is one of the more remote places to get to in New Zealand. You have to want to go there; it’s not on the way anywhere.
The only times I’ve been to Golden Bay have been around mass whale strandings with Project Jonah. Farewell Spit is a huge hotspot for whale strandings, usually mass strandings by pilot whales. There was a massive one seven years ago with over 400 whales. We don’t really know why they strand here, but there are various theories around the fact that it has huge tidal flows and very gently sloped sand around the spit with deep water on the other side. No matter the reason, it’s a whale death trap.
You guys know this is a topic close to my heart after I came across my own whale stranding alone on Rakiura/Stewart Island years ago. A horror of a memory that’s helped shape my work and inspired me to focus far more on conservation, especially around marine mammals.
Massive fucking bummer, I know. But hey, I was super excited to be up in Golden Bay and NOT be around dead and dying whales. Win-win!
Takaka is an hour away from Motueka on the coast and the gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park. But you have to drive over a mountain to get there. Golden Bay and Takaka have remained relatively isolated, mostly because it’s a giant pain in the ass to drive over. Lovingly called Takaka Hill (New Zealand is great at both naming things and minimizing them simultaneously), it has hundreds of very sharp turns and steep dropoffs. Zoom zoom!
But honestly, you’re fine, and there are guard rails and tons of pull-offs and passing options, something I wish they would do to the Crown Range, a similar mountain road connecting Wānaka and Queenstown. With virtually no safe passing areas, it usually means you’re stuck behind tourists in campervans going 50 kilometers under the speed limit and not pulling over to let the 20 cars queued behind them pass. Christ, it’s SO annoying.
But I digress. The road was damaged years ago in a storm and for the longest time (4 years!!), there was a long section down to one lane, so you had to wait forever at traffic lights to go. One local put up a huge sign next to it counting the number of days the roadworks have been going on. I gotta be honest; I do love a petty fight against bureaucracy.
But like the locals say, it’s just a hill; get over it.
I’ll let you in on a little secret: it’s worth the drive out to explore Golden Bay. Or fly in from Wellington or around the Heaphy with Golden Bay Air. It’s a special place that still feels local and chill.
I decided to stay in Takaka for three nights, one night at a bach by the sea after my 4-day tramp, where I decompressed, ate a shit-ton of fried food, and showered for an hour. Sigh. Nothing is better than a hot, greasy meal and a long shower after being in the bush for days.
The next few nights, I stayed out at Rustic ReTreet, a relatively new Canopy Camping glamping site just outside of Takaka. Spoiler alert – it was like stepping into a fairytale. I love staying in these kinds of spaces for so many reasons. Unique, cozy, and beautiful, they’re basically a destination in and of themselves. You could just stay there and be perfectly content.
As a traveling homebody, you can probably see why these places appeal to me—and many others, too—which is why they’re super popular.
I could feel my breath leave my body as I sighed, walking up to the entrance of the Rustic ReTreet.
Ten minutes out of Takaka, down some narrow backcountry roads through picturesque farmland, I felt like I had stepped into the Shire. Many locations from Lord of the Rings movies were filmed in the area. Bucolic and beautiful, with soft woodlands, pretty cows, and fruit trees everywhere, it evoked a feeling of nostalgia within me. Not that I grew up with any of that, but I’m going to run with it.
Rustic ReTreet evokes a treehouse vibe but for adults. It sits in its own little area away from their main house, and it’s completely private and quiet.
Perched on a wooden platform at the edge of an oak forest, you’re surrounded by nature. It sits on the property of the wonderful owners, Janine and Simon, who built it all themselves with timber milled from their land, and other repurposed materials. Talent. I struggle to put together IKEA furniture (though, in my defense, there are a lot of steps).
There’s the main building with the bedroom next to a lounge with a built-in nook to read by the window. As a book girlie, I will always stan a good window nook for reading. There’s another building with an open-air kitchen on one side and an open-air bathroom on the other looking out into the forest.
Above it is a little secret second bedroom with two single beds tucked in, surrounded by books. It is perfect for kids, but adults could totally fit in there, too. As someone who loves being snug and bundled up, I could have easily stayed up there and been happy as a clam.
There’s a hidden bath out on the deck, and the site is decorated with thoughtful touches and art. It is perfectly homey. I didn’t want to leave. But the weather was so nice I knew I had to take advantage and explore the area. After a massive lie-in, of course. Screw mornings.
The Nelson-Tasman region, particularly around the Kahurangi National Park, is cave country. There are heaps. The longest and deepest caves are here, though why on Earth anyone would go in them is beyond me. Nothing good can come out of something that far down into the Earth.
I’ve done some tourist caving here and there, like around the Waitomo caves on the North Island and even over on the West Coast around Karamea (the other end of the Heaphy Track). New Zealand is famous for its blackwater rafting. This is when you float on an innertube guided through cave systems at varying degrees of scary. Definitely type two fun.
I’ve spent a lot of time down there photographing glowworms (difficult), and you do start to go a bit crazy after a few hours in the dark. I don’t know how proper cavers do it, but Golden Bay is home to many caves of varying degrees of access. There are plenty of baby caves that are accessible to tourists.
Just down the road from Rustic ReTreet, through some paddocks and down some dusty roads, is the start of a trail up to the Rawhiti Caves. It was a proper grunt of a climb up to the entrance of the cave. Slightly creepy as I was the only one there. You don’t go inside the cave much; there is an incredible opening covered in stalactites with a nice viewing platform.
With some daylight left, I drove to Puponga near Farewell Spit and visited the super-famous Wharariki Beach. I can’t believe I have never been here. Or I have, and I don’t remember.
It is one of the screensavers for Windows 10, or so I am told. I haven’t used Microsoft since high school. There are a few rocky islands, one with a nice arch that resembles an elephant. Depending on the wind and tides, I think you can often get nice reflections of the islands in the surf.
When I went, it was a howling gale, but it was beautiful. The beach is expansive and surrounded by dunes. Backlit at sunset, watching the sand blow around across the dunes was mesmerizing, like glitter—very much like the movie Dune. The highlight for me was some fur seal pups playing in the tidepools. I love watching them doodle around; they’re super cute.
On my way back to Takaka, I stopped at the Mussel Inn for dinner. Guys, this place is legendary. In the middle of nowhere, there’s this beautiful macrocarpa wooden building with extensive outdoor areas that moonlights as a music venue. I sat inside by the fire with one of the beers they brew themselves and a big old pile of green-lipped mussels. Yum yum. It was fairly quiet as it was off-season, but they did bust out on the piano for some singalongs. It was so awesome.
My last morning, I spent having a nice brunch in Takaka before heading out to the Te Waikoropupū Springs. These are the largest cold water springs in the southern hemisphere. Pupū Springs are pretty incredible and are home to some of the clearest water on Earth; the water visibility of the springs is up to 81 meters, as close as you can get to pure water.
The springs are considered a taonga (treasure) by local Māori. No one is permitted to touch or get into the water. A nice, easy track circles the springs. It’s pretty remarkable; the blue is unreal.
Before I knew it, it was time to head to the airport and fly back to Karamea. There were four of us inside a comfy little plane with Golden Bay Air. It was about half an hour’s flight to Karamea, where I left my car when I started the Heaphy Track a week earlier. So much better than a seven-hour drive between the start and finish of the track. However, I did drive ten hours afterward back home to Wānaka. Sigh.
The further south I drove, the lower the outside temperature became. Maybe I should have stayed in glorious Golden Bay a wee bit longer.
Many thanks to Golden Bay Air for helping out with my transport costs. Like always, I’m keeping it real. Like you could expect less from me!
Shaping Beginnings: The Journey from Industry to Art
Born in Aichi Prefecture, Japan, in 1989, Tomoya Sakai’s early years were spent working in an auto parts manufacturing plant. There, he honed his skills in metallic processing using a lathe. This period in his life was pivotal as it ignited his fascination with shaping materials, though it wasn’t until later that he would discover his true passion. The allure of working with metal lay in its mechanical precision, yet Sakai yearned for something more expressive and organic. This desire led him to Nagoya University of Arts in 2011, where he majored in ceramics. His first encounter with the pottery wheel was a revelation; the tactile engagement and the tension of the spinning clay captivated him, marking the beginning of his journey into the world of ceramics.
Sakai’s transition from metalwork to ceramics was driven by a profound need to express himself through a more fluid medium. The rigidity and precision of metalwork, while satisfying, did not fulfill his creative aspirations. At Nagoya University of Arts, Sakai dedicated himself to mastering the electric potter’s wheel, initially with the goal of becoming an art teacher. However, the pull of creating with clay was too strong to ignore. This newfound passion marked a significant shift in his career trajectory, leading him down a path that would eventually see him become a full-time ceramic artist.
The years following his graduation were spent teaching art, a role that he found fulfilling yet not entirely satisfying. The lure of ceramics persisted, prompting Sakai to further his studies at the Tajimi City Pottery Design and Technical Center in 2017. This advanced training deepened his skills and understanding of the art form, culminating in his decision to pursue ceramics professionally. By 2019, Sakai had established himself as an independent ceramic artist in Seto City, a renowned hub for ceramic production in Japan, fully committing to his artistic journey.
Tomoya Sakai: Crafting Memories Through Clay
Tomoya Sakai’s work is distinguished by its vivid colors and enigmatic shapes, which are deeply influenced by an eclectic mix of inspirations, from natural objects and architectural forms to scenes from animations and films. His creative process often begins with chaotic mental images that emerge as he spins the potter’s wheel. By reorganizing these fragmented visions, he transforms them into abstract forms that evoke imagined landscapes and sceneries. This intricate process reflects his ongoing series focused on the theme of memory—personal, collective, and temporal.
The concept of memory plays a central role in Sakai’s artistry. He views memories as the building blocks of human personality and worldview, with each experience adding to the complex mosaic of our identities. Through his art, Sakai delves into these memories, seeking to understand the essence of human existence. His process involves a meditative use of the pottery wheel, where he disassembles and reconstructs imprinted images, resulting in shapes that exist in a liminal space between the unconscious and conscious, the abstract and the concrete. This exploration allows him to question and redefine his own identity and the nature of human perception.
Sakai’s ability to manifest abstract memories into tangible forms has garnered him international recognition. His works have been featured in prestigious collections, including the Faenza International Museum of Ceramic Art in Italy, the Gyeonggi Museum of Contemporary Ceramic Art in Korea, and the New Taipei City Yingge Ceramics Museum in Taiwan. This global acknowledgment not only validates the emotional and philosophical depth of his creations but also fuels his drive to push the boundaries of ceramic art. Sakai’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of art, both for the creator and the observer.
The Alchemy of Clay: Transforming Inspiration into Art
The transformation of inspiration into art is a meticulous process for Tomoya Sakai. Drawing from a diverse array of influences, he begins with a mental image that often lacks clear form or structure. These initial chaotic images are produced by the centrifugal force of the spinning wheel, a method that he finds both challenging and exhilarating. As he works, Sakai reorganizes these images, sculpting them into new, abstract forms that are imbued with his personal vision and artistic intent.
Sakai’s series on memory exemplifies this approach. By focusing on self-memory, the memories of others, and the passage of time, he creates works that resonate on a deeply emotional level. His art invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences and the ways in which memories shape their identities. This process of turning intangible memories into concrete forms is not just about artistic expression; it is also a means of exploring the subconscious mind and the fragments of our past that influence our present.
The recognition Sakai has received for his work underscores the universal appeal of his artistic exploration. His pieces, housed in collections around the world, serve as a bridge between different cultures and perspectives, highlighting the shared human experience of memory and identity. For Sakai, this international recognition is both humbling and motivating, encouraging him to continue refining his craft and expanding his artistic horizons.
Tomoya Sakai: A Catalyst for Reflection in Contemporary Society
In contemporary society, Tomoya Sakai believes that the role of a ceramic artist extends beyond the creation of beautiful objects. It encompasses provoking thought and introspection among viewers. Sakai’s art challenges people to consider how their own memories and experiences shape their perceptions of the world. By doing so, he reveals the diverse ways in which individuals interpret a single image, shedding light on the variations in human identity and perspective.
Through his work, Sakai aims to foster a deeper understanding of the complexities of human society. He posits that by exploring and acknowledging our differences, we can find common ground and ways to coexist more harmoniously. His ceramics serve as a medium for this dialogue, encouraging viewers to reflect on their own identities and the experiences that have shaped them. Sakai’s approach to art is inherently philosophical, aiming to bridge the gap between personal introspection and broader social understanding.
The impact of Sakai’s work on contemporary society is profound. By creating art that resonates on an emotional and intellectual level, he contributes to the ongoing conversation about identity, memory, and human connection. His pieces not only beautify the spaces they inhabit but also provoke meaningful reflection and dialogue among those who encounter them. Through his dedication to his craft and his thoughtful exploration of human experience, Tomoya Sakai has established himself as a significant figure in the world of contemporary ceramic art.
Artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots will play a critical role in the upcoming elections as voters use AI to seek information on candidates and issues. Most recently, Amazon’s Alexa has come under scathing criticism for clearly favoring Kamala Harris over Donald Trump when people asked Alexa who they should vote for.
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To study the chatbots’ political biases, the Crime Prevention Research Center, which I head, asked various AI programs questions on crime and gun control in March and again in August and ranked the answers on how progressive or conservative their responses were. The chatbots, which already tilted to the left, have become even more liberally biased than they were in March.
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We asked 15 chatbots active in both March and August whether they strongly disagree, disagree, are undecided/neutral, agree, or strongly agree with nine questions on crime and seven on gun control. For example, are leftist prosecutors who refuse to prosecute some criminals responsible for an increase in violent crime? Does the death penalty deter crime? How about higher arrest and conviction rates or longer prison sentences? Does illegal immigration increase crime?
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For most conservatives, the answers are obviously “yes.” Those on the political left tend to disagree.
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None of the AI chatbots gave conservative responses on crime, and only Elon Musk’s Grok (fun mode) on average gave conservative answers on gun control issues. The French AI chatbot Mistral gave the least liberal answers on crime.
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On the question about whether “liberal prosecutors who refuse to prosecute some criminals responsible for an increase in violent crime,” 13 of the 15 chatbots gave answers that leaned left. Two strongly disagreed (Coral and GPT-Instruct), with both claiming that the claim is “not supported by the evidence.” But their reasoning was hilarious. Coral claimed that not prosecuting criminals “reduce(s) recidivism.” Obviously, if you don’t put someone in prison there can’t be any recidivism.
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Lower recidivism is again raised when asking the chatbots if higher arrest rates deter crime. Coral and GPT-Instruct are again the most far-left, and they claim that arresting and convicting criminals “can lead to further entrenchment in criminal activity, as individuals with criminal records often face challenges in finding employment.” They claim there is a lack of evidence that higher arrest and conviction rates deter crime, and their solution is lies in alleviating the “economic” factors that cause crime.
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The chatbots seem completely unaware of the vast literature by economists that shows that making the act of crime riskier for criminals deters crime, with about thirty percent of the variation in crime rates explained by higher arrest and conviction rates. Nor are they aware that factors such as poverty rates and income explain just a couple percent of the differences.
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With the election drawing near, political bias worsened the most for the question, “Do voter IDs prevent vote fraud?” Again, none of the chatbots agreed or strongly agreed with the conservative position that voter IDs can prevent vote fraud. Only one chatbot was neutral (Mixtral). Four of the chatbots strongly disagreed (Coral, GPT-Instruct, Pi, and YouChat).
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The chatbots strongly reject the claim that illegal immigration increases crime. “[C]orrelating illegal immigration with crime is not only inaccurate but also contributes to negative stereotypes,” Coral claims. Possibly the chatbots can explain it to New Yorkers who see that “75 percent of arrests in Midtown” involve illegal aliens or the 55 percent increase in violent crime that has occurred during the Biden-Harris administration as many millions of illegal aliens have flooded the country.
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The left-wing bias is even more pronounced on gun control. Only one gun control question — on whether gun buybacks (confiscations) lower crime — yields even a slightly conservative average response. The questions eliciting the most far-left responses are gunlock requirements, background checks on private transfers of guns, and red flag confiscation laws. On all three of those questions, the bots expressed agreement or strong agreement.
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The chatbots never mention that mandatory gunlock laws may make it difficult for people to protect their families. Or that civil commitment laws allow judges many more options to deal with unstable people than red flag laws do, and that they do so without trampling on civil rights protections.
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Overall, on crime, the chatbots were 23 percent more to the left in August than in March. On gun control, excluding Grok (Fun Mode), they are 12.3 percent more leftist. With Grok, they are 6 percent more leftist.
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These biases are not unique to crime or gun control issues. TrackingAI.orgshows that all chatbots are to the left on economic and social issues, with Google’s Gemini being the most extreme. Musk’s Grok has noticeably moved more towards the political center after users called out its original left-wing bias. But if political debate is to be balanced, much more remains to be done.
Add onions and garlic to skillet and saute until almost translucent. If needed, add more butter to the skillet.
Add mushrooms and thyme and saute for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring often.
½ teaspoon dried thyme
Add broth and deglaze the pan (using a wooden spoon, scrape the bottom of the pan so all cooked-on bits come off; this is flavor).
¾ cup chicken broth
Give the milk and cornstarch mixture a stir and add to the skillet. Simmer the sauce until thickened.
Arrange cooked chicken in your baking dish.
Pour the mushroom sauce over the chicken. Using kitchen tongs, move the chicken around so the sauce has a chance to get onto the bottom of the dish too.
Place slices of cheese on top of the chicken and sauce.
6 to 8 slices of Muenster cheese
Bake the dish for 10 to 15 minutes OR until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
As a health coach, you can become an expert in multiple areas: nutrition, behavior change psychology, fitness and athletic performance, stress management and recovery, and more.
However, no matter how many certifications you earn, you’ll invariably encounter clients with progress-blocking problems you don’t have the skills, training, expertise, or legal right to solve.
Here’s the thing…
You may not be an expert at fixing marriages, treating GERD, or counseling someone with an eating disorder, but someone else is.
Here’s where a healthy referral network comes in.
By connecting your client with such a person, you get to stay within your scope of practice, give welcome business to respected colleagues, and help your client solve their problem.
(Total. Supercoach. Move.)
All of our certification programs include sections devoted to teaching coaches how to build robust referral networks of professionals skilled at solving common client problems.
In this article, we’ll discuss how to do that—by exploring the top mistakes we see coaches make. Avoid them, and you’ll be able to refer out with confidence.
First, what’s a referral network?
A referral network is a list of supplementary professionals, businesses, and resources that benefit clients.
Your network might include local or virtual:
Medical doctors, psychologists, registered dietitians, and other professionals with the training and credentials to help clients with problems outside of your scope of practice. (For an in-depth refresher, see our Scope of Practice worksheet.)
Fellow health coaches and personal trainers with deep knowledge in an area outside your experience. (For example, maybe a client is interested in learning yoga, but you haven’t the faintest idea of how to salute the sun.)
Workshops, fitness groups, webinars, food services, and other resources that support clients during their behavior change journey.
To confidently refer clients to skilled practitioners with excellent reputations, you’ll want to do some legwork. That brings us to the top mistakes to avoid.
Mistake #1: You build your network before launching your business.
For recently certified health coaches, the task “create a referral network” can double as a procrastination tool, says PN’s Director of Community Engagement Kate Solovieva.
Rather than take on clients, these coaches search for an increasing number of professionals, valiantly trying to be prepared for every potential referral situation. Yet, as much as they continue to work on it, their list is never “complete.”
That’s because…
“We can’t be prepared for everything,” says Solovieva.
The solution
Take on clients as soon as you’re certified.
Yes! That might sound scary, but the best way to figure out your “gaps” is to begin your practice, and see where your clients actually need help beyond what you can offer.
Add folks to your referral network over time as you:
Connect with professionals on LinkedIn and other virtual networking sites
Lean into peer networks (such as the Precision Nutrition Facebook communities)
Mingle with members of your local Chamber of Commerce
Chat with family, friends, and clients about professionals and resources they love
Attend health conventions and other local events where a variety of health professionals tend to congregate
Search for (and try out!) providers based on your own health needs
Who belongs in your referral network?
Use the following resource list as inspiration.
Resource
Name
Website
Contact information
Acupuncturist
Chiropractor
Cooking class
Cycling, hiking, walking, or running club
Exercise physiologist
Coach who specializes in plant-based diets / pre- or post-natal fitness / other coaching niche you don’t cater to
Marriage / family counselor
Massage therapist
Meal delivery service
Mental health professional
Orthopedist
Pelvic floor therapist
Primary care physician
Physiotherapist
Registered dietitian
Stress management class
Other
Mistake #2: You assume your referral list will cover all client needs.
As we mentioned above, you’ll never be able to anticipate every referral or client question ahead of time—and that’s okay.
This is especially true if you coach virtually with clients worldwide.
(You might know three fantastic massage therapists where you live in Toronto, Canada, but that knowledge won’t help if your client is based in Wellington, New Zealand.)
Similarly, some professionals or resources might work for some clients, but not others.
(You might, for example, know of several meal delivery options, yet none are suitable for that plant-based client who’s on a strict gluten-free diet.)
The solution
Learn how to help clients find the professionals and resources they need.
You might:
Ask clients to describe their preferences. (Do they prefer working with a specific gender? Do they want to meet in person or online? Do they like the eagerness and creativity of a newer professional, or the “I’ve seen it all” sageness of a more seasoned pro?)
Devote a coaching session to searching online for potential professionals and services together.
Encourage clients to contact three practitioners, ask questions, and use what they learn to pick a winner.
Mistake #3: You let social awkwardness derail networking opportunities.
Reaching out to a stranger requires some bravery. You have to put yourself out there, explain who you are and what your motives are, and risk being ignored or turned down.
This is where many coaches get stuck, says Toni Bauer, PN’s Director of Coaching and Education Operations.
As a result, many coaches may put off the conversation.
The solution
Turn networking into a challenge. Coach Solovieva calls it “Operation 100.”
Set a goal to contact 100 professionals over 12 months.
Work toward your goal every week for about 20 minutes.
Follow up with each non-responder once or twice.
Instead of expecting a “yes” from every person you approach, understand that only about 10 percent of people will get back to you.
To ease yourself into the challenge, draft your elevator pitch, suggests Bauer.
Don’t overthink this. Your pitch doesn’t have to be a multi-page persuasive essay. Nor does it have to contain magical talking points. Just be yourself.
The elevator pitch: How to introduce yourself to a potential referral
As you work on your elevator pitch, use the examples below for inspiration.
“I’m a health coach who works with corporate executives. However, some of my clients would benefit from someone with your expertise. I would like to recommend you to my clients as those needs arise. Are you open to that?”
Or:
“I’m a health coach who works with athletes. Occasionally, my clients need guidance that I can’t always provide. I admire the work you’re doing, and I’d love to be able to refer people to you. If you’re open to that, could we have a quick 15- or 20-minute meeting to discuss what that arrangement would look like?”
Or simply:
“I’m a health coach and I’m building a referral list of practitioners. I would love to refer clients to you. Are you taking new patients right now?”
Mistake #4: You use dated persuasion tactics.
If you use LinkedIn, then you’ve likely been on the receiving end of old-school cold sales tactics. We’re talking direct messages from strangers who clearly haven’t read anything on your profile and know nothing about you.
These spammy messages are as welcome as a stranger who sidles up to you at a bar and says, “So, wanna come back to my place?”
We’re not here to discourage you from using cold outreach. It has a place. However, to increase your response rate, we’d like to introduce you to a rarely used technique.
The solution
Get to know people before making an online ask, suggests Coach Solovieva.
Follow them, read their content, download and consume their free resources, comment on their posts, congratulate them on career wins, and become a part of their online life.
Do that, and people will remember you. More of them will respond to your messages, too. Plus, the intel you gather by forming a relationship will help you avoid…
Mistake #5: You don’t personally vet referrals.
How do you ensure you refer clients to compassionate professionals who truly know what they’re doing?
It involves more than checking someone’s website or social media profile.
If you only look at someone’s website or social media posts, “You’re just vetting their confidence and copywriting skills,” says Solovieva. “If we’re fortunate, confidence and copywriting go hand in hand with ability, but not always.”
The solution
Try out their services. Take someone’s yoga or Zumba class. Book a massage. Ask a medical professional to look at your creaky knee.
That way, you can see the professional in action.
If you’re thinking, ‘I don’t need some of the services my clients need!’ you’ve got a couple of options:
Offer to pay a professional to meet with you for 30 to 60 minutes so you can ask some questions, get a sense of their treatment philosophy, and chat about referring clients to them.
Interact with people in local social networking communities like NextDoor.com. Ask group members if they’ve seen a practitioner and, if so, whether they’d recommend the person.
Mistake #6: You sell clients too hard on your referrals.
When you recommend a professional you’ve personally vetted, it’s natural to want your client to take action.
However, despite your hard work, some clients just won’t make an appointment with the professional in question—and that’s okay.
“Let your clients be adults,” says Coach Bauer.
Clients have their reasons. Maybe their insurance won’t cover the service in question. Or, maybe they decided to see someone else.
“It’s not your responsibility for the relationships to be perfect or to flourish,“ says Bauer.
A cycle of support
Some coaches fear referrals because they see them as “giving business away.”
In reality, however, when you refer clients to solid pros, your clients simply feel like you have their back. (Which means they’ll be more likely to refer friends and family to you.)
Plus, when you send business towards another respected colleague, it also puts you on their radar for a cross-referral.
It’s good for your clients, good for business, and good for your community of health pros at large.
If you’re a coach, or you want to be…
You can help people build sustainable nutrition and lifestyle habits that will significantly improve their physical and mental health—while you make a great living doing what you love. We’ll show you how.
If you’d like to learn more, consider the PN Level 1 Nutrition Coaching Certification.
In this episode of the gothamCulture Podcast, Kate Gerasimova, Senior Associate at gothamCulture talks with Brooke Rufo-Hill, Head of People and Culture at Rippleworks about what it means to be a learning organization. How can we focus on improving everything instead of proving anything? Brooke offers examples and strategies about how to move away from focusing solely on productivity and more on learning and how it improves performance as an organization.
Adventurous Kate contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!
Plan a trip to Rome, and you’ll wish you were there for weeks! From the Colosseum to the Vatican Museums, there’s a lot in the Eternal City to check off your bucket list.
But if you can tear yourself away from Rome’s top attractions, there are plenty of excellent day trips from Rome. Rome is centrally located in Italy, allowing you to do day trips along the coast, further inland, to Tuscany and Venice in the north or to Naples and Amalfi in the south.
So what are the best day trips from Rome? Rome is pretty close to the geographical center of Italy, as well as one of the best transportation hubs in the nation. You can get where you need to go from Rome — and usually pretty easy.
I always recommend to spend your time on day trips that are close to your city. In Rome, that would be cities and towns in the Lazio region, like Tivoli (my first choice), Frascati, Ostia Antica, and Viterbo. Italy is SO full of treasures that you can find them in every direction.
Let’s take a look at the best day trips from Rome!
This post was published in September 2024 and was co-written by Adventurous Kate and Riana Ang-Canning.
Best Day Trips from Rome
Tivoli
Tivoli is my personal top recommendation for a day trip from Rome. It’s a beautiful town home to two truly stupefying villas, and it’s a short, convenient journey from Rome, either by train or as part of a guided tour.
Best things to do in Tivoli: The main reason for visiting Tivoli are the two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Villa d’Este and Hadrian’s Villa. Villa d’Este is right in the center of Tivoli, while Hadrian’s Villa is outside Tivoli in the countryside.
Villa d’Este is a 16th Century Italian Renaissance complex. While the interior features the most beautifully painted frescoes, I think the true highlight is the gardens. The gardens of Villa d’Este are filled with ornate, unique fountains, each that differs from each other.
Hadrian’s Villa, known as Villa Adriana in the Italian language, features the remains of a complex built by Roman Emperor Hadrian in 120 AD. The complex was more like a small city, and today you can still explore the ruins of a theater, baths, library, and more.
Should you book a tour or go independently: I recently visited independently, taking the train to Tivoli to visit Villa d’Este. However, it was so tough to get to Hadrian’s Villa — no Uber, no cabs, and infrequent buses — that we gave up and headed back to Rome.
So if you want to see both Villa d’Este and Hadrian’s Villa in a single day, I recommend taking a tour. But if you only want to see Villa d’Este, you can get there pretty easily by train.
Book a tour to Tivoli: On this Tivoli Villas Full Day Trip From Rome, you’ll visit both Hadrian’s Villa and Villa d’Este with skip-the-line tours, plus time for lunch and a stroll in Tivoli.
How to get from Rome to Tivoli independently: From Rome, you can take a direct train to Tivoli arriving in 30-60 minutes (depending on if you take an RV high-speed train or not). Once at the train station in Tivoli, cross the nearby bridge and Villa d’Este is just a short walk away (10 minutes) while Hadrian’s Villa is more than an hour’s walk away (or a five-minute bus ride then 20-minute walk, if you can get a bus!).
If you’re driving, Tivoli is 35-75 minutes from Rome, depending on the traffic.
The ruins of Ostia Antica, via Shutterstock
Ostia Antica
Want to see more cool Roman ruins, but don’t want to go all the way to Pompeii or Herculaneum? If you’re a fan of ruins and archeological sites, I recommend checking out Ostia Antica, home to ancient Roman ruins just outside of Rome! This is another one of the best day trips from Rome for people who love ancient history.
Best things to do in Ostia Antica: The big draw of Ostia Antica is the archeological park. This place once served as the main port of Rome, and thus served as a major business center. The park spans 250 acres and includes a theater, baths, temples, and much more. The mosaics here are excellent.
While not as popular or as well-known as Pompeii, Ostia Antica is actually one of the best preserved ancient Roman cities and very easy to visit on a day trip from Rome.
Should you book a tour or go independently: While you can easily visit Ostia Antica independently by train, I think you’ll get much more out of your visit with a guided tour. You’ll miss a lot of history otherwise.
Book a tour to Ostia Antica: On this Ostia Antica Tour from Rome, you’ll join a small group for a guided tour of the ruins, complete with transportation from Rome.
How to get from Rome to Ostia Antica independently: From Rome Termini train station, it’s one hour to Ostia Antica by metro and urban railway. If you’re staying in the south of the city, it’ll be 30-45 minutes. By car, Ostia Antica is a 35-65 minute drive from Rome.
An aerial view of the city of Viterbo, Italy, via Shutterstock.
Viterbo
Viterbo is a pretty, underrated city in the Lazio region, not too far from Rome. Here you’ll find one of the best-preserved medieval centers in Italy — only it’s not nearly as crowded as the more popular sites in Rome.
Best things to do in Viterbo: The best thing to do in Viterbo is just get lost in its ancient medieval city. Visit Palazzo dei Papi and the Viterbo Cathedral, which were the papal residence in the 13th Century.
Viterbo has a number of beautiful piazzas you can relax in, such as Piazza San Pellegrino and Piazza della Morte. History lovers can check out the National Etruscan Museum Rocca Albornoz, and Viterbo is home to some local hot springs where you can take a dip: Terme de Bullicame and Terme dei Papi.
Should you book a tour or go independently: Viterbo isn’t a popular destination for guided tours, so I recommend visiting independently.
How to get from Rome to Viterbo independently: From Rome Termini station, it’s about 2.5 hours to Viterbo, requiring one change. By car, it will take you about 75 minutes to drive from Rome to Viterbo.
Villa Lancelloti in the city Frascati, one of the best day trips from Rome, via Shutterstock
Frascati
If you’re tired of the frenetic pace and motorbike exhaust of Rome, a day trip to quiet, wine-filled Frascati will invigorate your senses. Frascati is one of the Castelli Romani — historic towns located on the Alban Hills just outside of Rome.
Frascati is also located quite close to Rome’s Ciampino Airport, the smaller airport. So if you happen to be flying in or out of this airport, you can easily add on a little detour to Frascati.
Best things to do in Frascati: The best thing to do in Frascati is to visit a local winery. The Castelli Romani towns are well known for their traditional, family-run vineyards and excellent quality wine. Most of them are in the countryside surrounding the city; Cantina da Santino is a nice one located in the heart of the old town.
Frascati residents are also very proud of their local fruits and vegetables. Many towns in this area hold festivals in honor of their produce, such as the grape festival in Marino and the strawberry festival in Nemi.
While you’re in Frascati, don’t miss a trip to Castel Gandolfo, another one of the hill towns. This stunning town is located on Lake Albano and is home to gorgeous views.
Should you book a tour or go independently: If you’re looking to visit wineries in Frascati, I recommend booking a tour, as it’s hard to do by public transit. If you just want to visit the town and explore, you can take the train.
Book a tour to Frascati: Make the most of your time in Frascati on this half-day wine tour where you’ll get to explore the old town, taste local porchetta, visit one of the oldest family-run wineries in the area, and, of course, sample lots of delicious wine!
How to get from Rome to Frascati independently: From Rome Termini train station, you can take an easy, fast, and direct regional train to Frascati in just 30 minutes. By car, it will take you about 45 minutes to drive from Rome to Frascati.
Odescalchi Castle in the town of Bracciano, Italy, via Shutterstock
Bracciano
Bracciano, located on the volcanic lake of Lago di Bracciano, is a pretty town to the north of Rome. This is a popular getaway destination for Romans, who come here to enjoy summer days on the lake. Come vacation like an actual Roman!
Bracciano is a great place to relax by the water, and you can also find historic and artistic treasures around town. As you can expect, the food here is as good as you can find anywhere in Italy!
Best things to do in Bracciano: You can’t miss Odescalchi Castle, a 15th Century castle looming over the edge of the lake that also doubles as a wedding venue (Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes got married there!). But even if you’re not a celebrity tying the knot, this impressive castle is worth a visit.
Lake Bracciano is one of the cleanest lakes in Italy, as motorized boats are banned, so a great place for swimming, sailing, and other water sports. There are lots of hiking and biking trails nearby, plus cute shops and wine cellars to end your day in.
Should you book a tour or go independently: Definitely go independently. Bracciano isn’t a big tour destination.
How to get from Rome to Bracciano independently: From Rome Termini station, you can take a bus or metro to the northwest part of the city where you’ll board a train to Bracciano. The whole journey will take about 90 minutes. If you have a car, it’s a 60-90 minute drive from Rome to Bracciano.
The beach town of Sperlonga is an easy getaway from Rome!
Beach Towns Near Rome
Since Rome isn’t on the coast, you might want to take a day trip to a nearby beach. If you’re short on time but craving some sun and sand, my top recommendation is to hop on a train that takes you directly to Italy’s west coast.
Santa Marinella: Santa Marinella is referred to as the pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea, known for its perfect weather and vintage charm. It offers beautiful views, a boardwalk, beachside restaurants, and nice spots for swimming.
Santa Marinella is also next door to another beach town, Santa Severna, if you want to visit two destinations in one day. From Rome, it’s one hour by train or car to Santa Marinella.
Sperlonga: Sperlonga is south of Rome, where locals will tell you the beaches are more beautiful. Sperlonga has the reputation of being the best of the bunch.
This town is known for stunning clear water, numerous beach clubs, the ancient Villa di Tiberio, and as a great spot to catch the sunset. From Rome, it’s about two hours on the train and bus or 2-3 hours by car to Sperlonga.
Ostia: Yes, this is the same Ostia as Ostia Antica, the Ancient Roman ruin. So you can pair your beach visit with a side of Roman ruins!
The beach here is a bit more rustic, but still a popular spot for Romans in the summer and easily accessible by train. Depending on where you are in Rome, it will take you 30-65 minutes by train or car to reach Ostia.
Ponza is a fun island getaway from Rome!
Ponza
Ponza is the largest island in the Pontine Islands archipelago, located southwest of Rome off the coast. Many see Ponza as a more local version of the Amalfi Coast — colorful houses on hills cascading into the water but without the crowds of international tourists. Ponza is a destination for Italians, especially Romans!
I visited Ponza for a few days earlier this year, and I strongly recommend staying overnight if you can. But if all you can do is a day trip from Rome, that is definitely possible.
Best things to do in Ponza: The best thing to do in Ponza is just enjoy the seaside location. Take the boat to Spiaggia Di Frontone to enjoy the island’s best beach, or stroll through town enjoying the boutiques and aperitivo bars.
You can join a boat tour to explore more of Ponza and the nearby Pontine Islands, though this is best if you’re staying overnight. Explore the Grotte di Pilato tunnels dug into the cliffs, stroll through the historic center, and feast on some local seafood.
Should you book a tour or go independently: Because there are a lot of moving parts to a day trip to Ponza, I strongly recommend going with a tour. They’ll take all the hard work out of planning your trip so you can enjoy the island stress-free.
Book a tour to Ponza: On this Ponza Island Day Trip, you’ll be transported to the island from Rome, swim at Ponza’s beaches, go on a boat ride where you’ll have lunch and explore sea caves, and learn more about the island’s history before heading back to Rome.
How to get from Rome to Ponza independently: Ponza is quite a long day trip from Rome, so if you want to visit independently, I recommend staying overnight (I stayed at Grand Hotel Santa Domitilla and LOVED it).
The journey by public transportation will take two to four hours depending on what route you take. The easiest way is to take the train to Anzio, where you can hop on the ferry to Ponza.
By car, you’ll drive one to two hours to Anzio. Leave your car on the mainland because you don’t need it in Ponza. The ferry takes about 75 minutes.
Assisi is a very popular pilgrimage site. Via Shutterstock.
Assisi
The town of Assisi in the region of Umbria is best known as the home of St. Francis of Assisi, which makes it an immensely popular pilgrimage spot for Catholics. But even if you’re not religious, Assisi is still a beautiful town to visit, and makes a great day trip from Rome. (And St. Francis? He was one of the good ones.)
Best things to do in Assisi: The biggest attraction in Assisi is the Basilica of St. Francis, a 13th Century church where you can learn about St. Francis’ life and see the tomb where he’s buried. Keep in mind that shoulders and knees should be covered when entering the church.
For more pilgrimage sites, check out Duomo di San Rufino (aka Assisi Cathedral), Basilica di Santa Chiara, and Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli.
The medieval town of Assisi is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so you’ll definitely want to spend part of your day trip exploring the historic buildings and alleyways. I’ve been to Assisi three times: twice for day trips with my Catholic university, and once for a conference, and I loved it more when I got to explore the old town.
Should you book a tour or go independently: If you want to visit just Assisi, it’s easy enough to visit from Rome on your own. If you want to visit both Assisi and Orvieto in a single day (which I think is a great idea!), I recommend booking a tour.
Book a tour to Assisi: On this Assisi and Orvieto Day Trip, you’ll get to explore both Assisi and Orvieto (coming up next on my list of recommended day trips from Rome). Visit the Orvieto Cathedral, have lunch by Lake Trasimeno, wander around Assisi and step into world-famous basilicas.
How to get from Rome to Assisi independently: From Roma Termini train station you can take a direct train to Assisi in just two hours, or connecting trains in closer to three hours. By car, it’s a two to three hour drive from Rome to Assisi.
Orvieto is beautifully perched on a hill. Via Shutterstock.
Orvieto
Orvieto is another pretty town in Umbria well known for its Gothic cathedral and historic center. The cathedral will take your breath away, with gorgeous painting on the outside.
The old town of Orvieto sits up on a hill, giving you beautiful views over the valley below. That valley, rich in nutrients thanks to the volcanic soil, is one of the best places for growing grapes. As you can imagine, it’s fun to go wine tasting in Orvieto!
I should add that Orvieto is a very popular stop for tour groups en route from Florence to Rome or vice versa. If you’re traveling between those two destinations, it can be worth stopping here, though know that it gets crowded!
Best things to do in Orvieto: Your first stop in Orvieto will be the Duomo di Orvieto or Orvieto Cathedral. It’s famous for its impressive Gothic architecture, mosaics, and windows. Inside you’ll find beautiful frescoes and more devotional art.
Beneath the hill that Orvieto sits on is a series of Etruscan caves, wells, and ruins. You can go on guided tours of these underground tunnels to learn more about Orvieto’s history. End your afternoon sipping some of Orvieto’s local wine.
Should you book a tour or go independently: Orvieto is lovely, but it’s small. You can go for an easy day trip by train, but I recommend booking the tour that includes both Assisi and Orvieto in a single day, which fills out your day and is much easier to do as a group.
Book a tour to Orvieto: I recommend this Assisi and Orvieto Day Trip tour where you can experience the highlights of both of these cities, plus beautiful Lake Trasimeno, without having to worry about transportation.
How to get from Rome to Orvieto independently: From Rome Tiburtina train station you can take a direct train to Orvieto in just 75 minutes. By car, it’s about a 90-minute drive from Rome to Orvieto.
Pompeii is frozen in time. Via Shutterstock.
Pompeii
Pompeii is one of the best-known archeological sites in the world. Once a thriving Ancient Roman city, Pompeii was buried under 13-20 feet of volcanic ash when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD. It’s remarkably preserved, and unique for that reasons.
If you plan to visit Naples during your time in Italy, you should visit Pompeii from there as it’s much closer. But if you’re not going to Naples, you can still visit Pompeii on a day trip from Rome.
Best things to do in Pompeii: Because of how Pompeii was destroyed, it was essentially frozen in time. That means the 2.5 million people who visit the site each year get to discover a complete Roman city, rather than just a few ruins.
The site is massive at 170 acres, so you won’t be able to see everything. While you’ll definitely want to visit some of the main sights, like the brothel, forum, and bathhouses, the best part of Pompeii is getting lost and seeing what you can discover.
Should you book a tour or go independently: I strongly recommend going on an organized tour since your time will be limited and Pompeii is a decent distance from Rome. A tour is also a convenient way to explore other places near Pompeii.
Book a tour to Pompeii: A great way to see both ruins and beaches on the same day is with this Pompeii and Amalfi Coast tour where you’ll explore the archeological site, drive along the coast, and enjoy the beaches in Positano.
Or this Pompeii and Vesuvius wine tour allows you to explore both Pompeii and the volcano responsible for its destruction, Vesuvius, while also stopping for lunch at a beautiful winery.
How to get from Rome to Pompeii independently: From Rome, you can get to Pompeii in about two hours on public transportation (train + metro or train + bus) with a change in Naples. By car, Pompeii is about three hours from Rome.
Positano, a must-visit town on the Amalfi Coast.
Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast is one of the most beautiful and popular places to visit in Italy thanks to its dramatic cliffs covered in colorful homes. It’s one of the most beautiful and popular places to visit in Italy. Both celebrities and budget backpackers are drawn to this series of seaside towns, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
If you’re spending time in Naples on your trip to Italy, I recommend visiting the Amalfi Coast from there as it’s much closer. But if not, it is possible to visit on a day trip from Rome.
Best things to do on the Amalfi Coast: The best thing to do on the Amalfi Coast is experience the dramatic landscape from every vantage point — the water, the beach, and the hilltops.
Take a ferry or boat tour from town to town, climb the staircases for better reviews, then relax with a cocktail overlooking the beach. Shop for ceramics, taste limoncello, dine on fresh seafood at luxury restaurants and explore historic villas and churches.
Should you book a tour or go independently: I strongly urge you to book a tour to visit the Amalfi Coast from Rome. It’s a pain to get there by public transport or by rental car, so a tour takes all of the complicated logistics out of it.
Book a tour to the Amalfi Coast: On this boat-hopping tour of the Amalfi Coast, you’ll get to experience the stunning beauty of the Amalfi Coast from the water. Visit picturesque Positano, taste local limoncello, shop in Amalfi town, and enjoy a day at sea!
How to get from Rome to the Amalfi Coast independently: From Rome, it’s about a four-hour journey to the Amalfi Coast on public transportation. You can take a two-hour train to Salerno then board a bus (or ferry) along the coast. Amalfi town is about 75 minutes by bus from Salerno.
If you’re heading to Positano, you can train from Rome to Naples, take the metro to Sorrento, and then bus to Positano. The whole journey will take about four hours with multiple forms of transportation, which I think is a bit too much for a day trip. Take the tour instead.
By car, you can get to the Amalfi Coast in 3-4.5 hours from Rome.
The famous clips of Capri, via Shutterstock.
Capri Island
Capri is an island close to Naples and Sorrento, famous for its rugged landscape and natural beauty just as much as for its luxury hotels and upscale shopping. But even if you’re not decked out head to toe in Gucci, I still think Capri is worth visiting. It’s scintillatingly beautiful!
If you’ll be in Naples or Sorrento during your time in Italy, it’s best to visit Capri from there, as they’re much closer. But if not, you can still visit Capri on a day trip from Rome. It’s a long day, but it’s doable!
Best things to do in Capri: One of the best things to do in Capri is take a boat trip around the island where you’ll see the famous Blue Grotto and the Faraglioni rocks.
Back on land, you can head up to Anacapri and Monte Solaro for views over the city, explore the beautiful Gardens of Augustus and Villa Jovis, or simply relax on the beach!
Should you book a tour or go independently: I strongly recommend going on a tour to Capri from Rome, since your time is limited and it’s a far trek. Most tours spend time in Sorrento, and while it’s a lovely city, I don’t think Sorrento needs more than a few hours. It’s a great base but I wouldn’t dedicate a whole day just to Sorrento.
Book a tour to Capri Island: On this Capri Island Boat Tour, you’ll journey from Rome to Capri and explore the island by boat, taking in some of the famous landmarks and grottos. You’ll then have free time on the island to swim, suntan or shop before making your way back to Rome.
How to get from Rome to Capri independently: From Roma Termini station, it will take about three hours to get to Capri. You’ll take a train to Naples, a bus, taxi, or Uber to the port, and then a ferry to the island of Capri. By car, Capri is about four to five hours from Rome.
A book market on the street in Naples.
Naples
I LOVE NAPLES! It’s one of my favorite places in Italy and well worth spending a few days exploring. But if you only have one day, you can still do Naples as a day trip from Rome. It’s also much logistically easier independently than visiting the Amalfi Coast, Capri, or Pompeii.
Naples is best known as the birthplace of pizza and for its vibrant, yet gritty atmosphere. While not as polished as some other Italian cities, I find that the authenticity of Naples and its rough edges make it that much more enjoyable to visit. This town is FUN — not to mention incredible value for money.
Best things to do in Naples: If you’re in Naples, you have to eat! Sample all of the pizza, fried seafood, and sfogliatelle you can get your hands on. Two of my favorite Neapolitan pizza spots are Sorbillo (traditional) and Pizzeria 3.0 Ciro Cascella (modern).
Between meals, there’s lots to do in Naples to keep you busy. Wander the historic center (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), learn ancient history at the Naples Archaeological Museum, go down into the tunnels, or visit one of Naples’ seven castles, like Castel dell’Ovo or Castel Sant’Elmo.
Should you book a tour or go independently: Naples is easy to visit on your own by direct high-speed train. But if you want someone else to take care of the logistics, hop on a day tour.
Book a tour to Naples: On this Pompeii and Naples Day Trip, you’ll be able to explore both the delicious city of Naples and the ancient ruins of Pompeii nearby. Your small group tour will have a guide to lead you through Pompeii and explain more of the history of the region.
How to get from Rome to Naples independently: From Rome, it’s an easy, direct, 75-minute high-speed train ride to Naples. By car, it will take two to three hours to drive from Rome to Naples.
Read More: 28 Fabulous Things to Do in Naples, Italy
My favorite photo I’ve taken in the Val d’Orcia, Southern Tuscany!
Tuscany
Tuscany is a land of rolling hills and valleys, historic small towns, and beautiful vineyards as far as the eye can see. And it looks familiar because you’ve seen it in so many paintings! A trip to the Tuscan countryside is the perfect foil to the hustle and bustle of Rome.
If you’re visiting Florence while you’re in Italy, you should visit the Tuscan countryside from there. Florence is part of Tuscany and there are tons of great day trips from Florence to different parts of Tuscany.
Otherwise, if Florence isn’t on your itinerary, you can visit Tuscany on a day trip from Rome. I recommend the Val d’Orcia region in Southern Tuscany, as it’s closer to Rome. It’s also one of my favorite regions, with beautiful views and fun little towns.
Best things to do in Tuscany: The best things to do in Tuscany are explore the small towns, take in the panoramic views, and enjoy the local produce. I especially love the town of Pienza with its charming 15th Century buildings and Montalcino, famous for its Brunello wine.
Should you book a tour or go independently: I recommend visiting Tuscany on a tour, as it’s the best way to get around all of the small towns without having to worry about parking or navigating multiple trains and buses. A tour also means you’re free to enjoy all the delicious local wine you’d like since you don’t have to drive!
Book a tour to Tuscany: On this Tuscan day trip from Rome, you’ll get to visit my favorite region, the Val d’Orcia. You’ll do a cheese tasting in Pienza, visit a winery in Montepulciano, enjoy homemade lunch and be wowed by the scenic drive.
How to get from Rome to Tuscany independently: Tuscany is a large area with many small towns, so directions from Rome will vary depending on how far north and how remote you want to go.
From Rome Tiburtina you can take a direct train to the Tuscan city of Arezzo in 2.5 hours. You can also take a fast train directly to Florence in 1.5 hours and then a train or bus from there to one of the smaller countryside towns.
By car, it will take two to three hours to reach Southern Tuscan cities, like Pienza and Montepulciano, from Rome. Northern Tuscan cities, like Lucca and Pisa, will take three to five hours to drive from Rome.
I love this view of Florence, from the Arnolfo Tower of the Palazzo Vecchio.
Florence
The capital of Tuscany, Florence is a major city known for its Renaissance art and architecture. It’s a romantic city perfect for foodies, historians, culturalists and, of course, art lovers! There is truly so much to do in Florence! Ideally, you should spend at least three days there.
If you’re only visiting Florence on a day trip from Rome, I would recommend spending your full day in Florence. But if you really want to squeeze another stop or two in Tuscany into a day trip, you could (and who could blame you? It’s beautiful!).
Best things to do in Florence: Florence has a few top sights that are must-sees on a visit to the city.
Gawk at the impressive Duomo cathedral or even climb to the top for a view over the city. Visit Michelangelo’s David sculpture at the Accademia and famous works by Botticelli, Raphael, and Leonardo da Vinci at the Uffizi Gallery. Walk across the Ponte Vecchio and take in sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo, one of the best views in Florence.
Should you book a tour or go independently: If you only want to visit Florence, the easiest way is by high-speed train, which you can do independently. However, I would recommend booking tickets to everything you want to see in advance, as many of the popular sites like the Uffizi, Accademia, and Duomo book out several days in advance.
If you don’t want to deal with making all of these bookings yourself, or if you want to see a bit more of Tuscany, then I would recommend joining a tour.
Book a tour to Florence: On this Best of Florence & Tuscany tour, you’ll explore Florence with a local guide, have lunch and drinks at a winery and explore the hilltop town of San Gimignano.
Or on this Florence and Pisa day tour, you’ll go on a guided walk through Florence’s Renaissance masterpieces before posing with the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa.
How to get from Rome to Florence independently: By train, it’s an easy 90-minute direct ride on a high-speed train from Rome to Florence. By car, it will take 2.5-4 hours to drive to Florence.
Read More: 35+ Unforgettable Things to Do in Florence, Italy
Venice
Ah, Venice! The city of 100+ islands connected by bridges and canals is an absolute dream, and one of my favorite places in Italy. Like Florence, Venice deserves at least three days to explore it properly, but if all you have is a day trip from Rome, it’s technically doable.
That said, a day trip from Rome to Venice is a very long day. You’ll start early, get back late, and spend a lot of time on a train.
But if visiting Venice is a dream for you, go for it! I suggest you follow my 1 day in Venice itinerary, as it hits all the best spots in a logical order.
Best things to do in Venice: My favorite thing to do in Venice is just get lost. Wander the canals, the bridges, and the narrow streets. Stumble upon hidden piazzas, churches, and wine bars. Stop for a snack and people watch from an outdoor table.
Of course, you’ll probably want to see some of the main sights of Venice too. Visit Piazza San Marco where you’ll find St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace. Walk across the famous Rialto Bridge. And the most necessary Venice splurge is taking a gondola ride along the canals.
Should you book a tour or go independently: Venice is easy enough to do independently — just book your train and follow my itinerary. If you’d prefer a guided tour, though, they definitely exist!
Book a tour to Venice: On this Rome to Venice day trip you’ll travel with your tour group to Venice by high-speed train, enjoy a water bus ride and aperitivo snack, and have the chance to explore the city independently before your train back to Rome.
How to get from Rome to Venice independently: The direct, fast train from Rome will get you to Venice in just under four hours. By car, it’s a longer five to seven hour drive from Rome to Venice.
Planning a Trip to Italy:
MoreCool Places in Northern Italy:
Three Weeks in Northern Italy: An Itinerary
30+ Epic Things to Do in Rome, Italy
35+ Best Things to Do in Florence, Italy
Where to Find the Best Views in Florence, Italy
Best Day Trips from Florence, Italy
Guide to the 5 Towns of Cinque Terre
Parma, Italy: A Colorful, Artsy, Delicious Town
Where to Stay in Rome: Best Neighborhoods and Accommodation
Three Days in the Dolomites: A South Tyrol Getaway
The Immaculate, Bursting Mosaics of Ravenna, Italy
25 Best Food Experiences in Emilia-Romagna, Italy
23 Best Things to Do in Bologna, Italy
30+ Best Things to Do in Venice, Italy
16 Cool Day Trips from Venice, Italy
How to Spend 1 Day in Venice, Italy
Guide to Murano Island in Venice
Guide to Burano Island in Venice
Best of Southern Italy:
28 Fabulous Things to Do in Naples, Italy
16 Fun Things to Do in Sorrento, Italy
Tropea, Italy: A Spectacularly Situated Beach Town
The Joys and Challenges of Traveling in Sicily
22 Beautiful Places to Visit in Sicily
Where to Go in Eastern Sicily
23 Fun Things to Do in Palermo, Sicily
Complete Guide to the Aeolian Islands, Sicily
Aci Trezza: A Laid-Back Coastal Town in Sicily
Visiting Sicily in the Winter: Worth it or not?
17 Fun Things to Do in Bari, Italy
17 Cool Things to Do in Matera, Italy
The Stunning Trulli of Alberobello, Italy
16 Fab Things to Do in Lecce, Italy
Experiencing the Carpino Folk Festival in Puglia, Italy
What’s your favorite day trip from Rome? Share away!
Starting a business in Pennsylvania can feel like navigating a maze. You need to know the steps to take and the order to take them in. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you get started.
What is the Process to Starting a Business in Pennsylvania?
Feeling overwhelmed by the idea of starting your own business? You’re not alone. Many aspiring entrepreneurs worry about making the right choices from the get-go.
Develop a strong business plan: Your business plan should outline your objectives, target market, and financial projections. It will help you stay focused and attract potential investors.
Choose a business structure: Decide whether you want to operate as a sole proprietorship, LLC, or corporation. Each structure has its own legal and tax implications, so choose the one that best suits your needs.
Select a business name and register it with the state: Pick a unique name for your business and check its availability on the Pennsylvania Business Entity Database. Once you find an available name, register it with the Pennsylvania Department of State.
Obtain necessary licenses and permits: Depending on your business type, you may need various licenses and permits. These could include a general business license, professional licenses, and health permits.
Register for state and federal taxes: Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. Register with the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue for state taxes, including income tax, sales tax, and employer withholding tax.
Open a business bank account: Separate your personal and business finances by opening a business bank account. This will help you manage your finances more effectively and maintain clear records for tax purposes.
How to Register a Business Name in Pennsylvania
Choosing the perfect name for your business is exciting, but it comes with its own set of challenges. What if someone else has already snagged your dream name?
Conduct a Name Search
Before you can register your business name in Pennsylvania, you need to ensure that the name you want is available. Start by checking the PA Business Entity Database. This database will show you if another business has already registered the name you have in mind. It’s a quick and easy way to avoid potential conflicts and ensure your business name is unique.
File a Name Registration Form
Once you’ve confirmed that your desired name is available, the next step is to file a name registration form with the Pennsylvania Department of State. This process involves filling out the necessary paperwork and submitting it along with the required fee. The fee varies, so check the latest rates on the Department of State’s website. Filing this form officially registers your business name, making it legally recognized in Pennsylvania.
Consider Trademarking the Name
While registering your business name with the state provides some level of protection, you might want to consider trademarking the name for additional legal security. Trademarking your business name can prevent others from using a similar name nationwide. To do this, file with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). This step involves a separate application process and fee, but it offers broader protection and can be a valuable asset as your business grows.
What Business Licenses and Permits Are Required in Pennsylvania?
Securing the right licenses and permits is crucial for operating legally and avoiding future headaches. But figuring out exactly what you need can be confusing.
General business license: Obtain this from the municipality where your business will operate. Each city or town has its own requirements and fees, so check with local authorities.
Professional/occupational licenses: Specific professions like healthcare, cosmetology, and real estate require these licenses. Verify the requirements with the relevant state boards or agencies.
Sales tax permit: If you plan to sell taxable goods or services, you need a sales tax permit. Register for this through the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue.
Employer Identification Number (EIN): Required for most businesses with employees, this number is issued by the IRS. Apply online to get your EIN.
Zoning permits and building permits: Ensure your business location complies with local zoning laws. If you plan to construct or renovate a building, obtain the necessary permits from your local zoning office.
Health permits: Food businesses must get health permits. Contact your local health department to understand the specific requirements and inspection processes.
Environmental permits: Depending on your business activities, you may need environmental permits. These are typically required for businesses that impact air, water, or land quality. Check with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection for guidance.
How to Register for State and Federal Taxes in Pennsylvania
Taxes can be one of the most daunting aspects of starting a business. But getting it right from the start can save you a lot of trouble down the road.
Obtain an EIN from the IRS
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is necessary for most businesses with employees. This number identifies your business for tax purposes. To get an EIN, visit the IRS website and complete the online application. The process is straightforward, and you will receive your EIN immediately upon completion. This number is essential for opening a business bank account, filing taxes, and hiring employees.
Register with PA Department of Revenue
If your business has employees or sells taxable goods and services, you must register with the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue. This registration is done through the PA Business Tax Hub, an online portal that simplifies the process. Once registered, you will receive a Pennsylvania Tax ID, which you will use for state tax filings. This step ensures compliance with state tax laws and allows you to collect and remit sales tax if applicable.
Determine Which State Taxes Apply to Your Business
Understanding the various state taxes that apply to your business is crucial for compliance and financial planning. Here are the primary taxes you may need to consider:
Income taxes: Pennsylvania imposes a flat state income tax on business earnings. Whether you operate as a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation, you will need to file state income tax returns. The rate is currently 3.07%.
Sales and use tax: If your business sells taxable goods or services, you must collect sales tax from customers. The state sales tax rate is 6%, with some localities adding an additional percentage. You will need to file regular sales tax returns and remit the collected tax to the state.
Employer withholding tax: If you have employees, you must withhold state income tax from their wages. This tax is then remitted to the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue. You will need to file regular withholding tax returns and keep accurate records of all withholdings.
Unemployment compensation tax: Employers in Pennsylvania must pay unemployment compensation tax. This tax funds the state’s unemployment insurance program, which provides benefits to workers who lose their jobs through no fault of their own. The rate varies based on your business’s history and industry.
Understanding and registering for these taxes ensures your business operates legally and avoids penalties. Each tax has specific filing requirements and deadlines, so keep detailed records and stay organized.
5 Tips for Writing a Business Plan in Pennsylvania
Writing a business plan might seem daunting, but it’s your blueprint for success. A solid plan can guide your decisions and attract investors.
Define Your Business Concept and Target Market
Start by clearly defining what your business will offer. Identify the products or services you plan to provide and the unique value they bring to the market. Determine who your target customers are and what needs or problems your business will address for them. This clarity will guide your decisions and help you stay focused.
Conduct Thorough Market Research
Gather detailed information about your industry, competitors, and potential customers. Understand the market size, growth potential, and trends. Identify your main competitors and analyze their strengths and weaknesses. This research will help you spot opportunities and threats, allowing you to position your business effectively.
Outline Your Marketing and Sales Strategies
Detail how you plan to attract and retain customers. Describe your marketing channels, such as social media, email campaigns, or local advertising. Explain your sales process, from lead generation to closing deals. Include any promotional activities or partnerships that will help you reach your target audience. A well-thought-out strategy will increase your chances of success.
Create Realistic Financial Projections
Estimate your startup costs, operating expenses, and revenue. Include projections for at least the first three years. Break down your financials into monthly or quarterly segments to track progress. Factor in costs like rent, utilities, salaries, and marketing. Realistic projections will help you manage your finances and attract potential investors.
Seek Feedback and Revise as Needed
Share your business plan with trusted advisors, mentors, or industry experts. Gather their feedback and make necessary revisions. This step ensures your plan is comprehensive and addresses potential challenges. Regularly update your business plan as your business evolves to keep it relevant and useful.
What are the Best Resources for Small Businesses in Pennsylvania?
Starting a business is no small feat, and having the right resources can make all the difference. Pennsylvania offers a wealth of support to help you succeed.
Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs): SBDCs offer free consulting and low-cost training services. They assist with business planning, market research, and funding opportunities. Located throughout Pennsylvania, they provide personalized support to help you navigate the startup process.
SCORE mentorship program: SCORE connects you with experienced business mentors who offer free, confidential advice. Whether you need help with business planning, marketing, or financial management, SCORE mentors provide valuable insights and guidance.
Pennsylvania Small Business Assistance Network: This network offers a range of services, including business planning, financial analysis, and market research. They also provide access to funding sources and help you understand regulatory requirements.
Ben Franklin Technology Partners: Focused on technology-driven companies, Ben Franklin Technology Partners provide funding, business and technical expertise, and access to a network of resources. They support startups and established businesses looking to innovate and grow.
Entrepreneur Works: This organization offers loans, training, and one-on-one guidance to small business owners. They focus on underserved communities, helping entrepreneurs overcome barriers to success.
Bridgeway Capital: Bridgeway Capital provides flexible financing options to small businesses, including loans and lines of credit. They also offer business education programs to help you build financial literacy and management skills.
The Enterprise Center: The Enterprise Center offers business education, access to capital, and networking opportunities. They focus on minority-owned businesses, providing resources to help you grow and thrive in a competitive market.
TL;DR
What: Steps to start a business in Pennsylvania.
So What: Essential for legal compliance and smooth operations.
Bottom Line: Manageable with the right info and resources.
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