Labenda and Krause, with their deep-seated love of Italian design and craftsmanship, have curated a collection of stories and images that speak to the senses. This isn't merely a travelogue; it's a visual manifesto.
To truly experience Italy is to lose yourself in its history, its art, and its breathtaking landscapes. The Grand Tour Italy by Tim Labenda and Hannes-Vincent Krause was a journey not just through a country, but through the very heart of what makes life beautiful. We hope this book inspires others to embark on their own unforgettable Italian adventure.
This book is a love letter to Italy, a journey into its very soul where every page is steeped in the golden light of the Mediterranean and the passionate hum of life itself. Grand Tour Italy: The Renaissance of Refined Travel is the first book by Berlin-based influencers Tim Labenda and Hannes-Vincent Krause.
As global travel trends pivot toward authenticity and cultural immersion, this book redefines the "grand tour" for a new generation, offering a stylish escape from mass tourism and a key to Italy’s most exclusive experiences.
In a world increasingly seeking unique and meaningful travel, Grand Tour Italy is perfectly timed. The book is a visual and narrative journey through Italy’s hidden treasures, showcasing elegant retreats, vibrant city life in Milan, and the serene beauty of the Portofino coast. Labenda and Krause share personal stories and insider tips—from exquisite culinary discoveries to secret art spots—making this more than a travel guide; it's an invitation to a lifestyle of cultivated exploration.
Grand Tour Italy is an essential resource, tapping into key trends shaping modern life:
- The Grand Tour series is perfectly positioned as the definitive reading material for the trending "Euro Summer" traveler, offering a visual and narrative for a meaningful, luxurious, and authentic journey popular among Americans and British.
- Shift to authenticity: This trend is characterized by a move away from crowded, generic tourist hotspots toward more authentic, high-quality, and immersive experiences.
- Longer, slower travel: Travelers are booking longer trips in fewer locations, which supports local economies and allows for a deeper connection with the culture and community.
- Curated content and influencer culture: Authored by prominent influencers, the book provides a trusted, curated perspective that aligns with how many people discover new places today.
- Luxury and artful living: The focus on refined resorts, fine dining, and beautiful interiors positions the book as a guide for the luxury market, appealing to a readership interested in sophisticated design and culture.
Highlights of the book's journey include:
- Lago di Como: Features luxurious, iconic hotels like Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Villa d’Este, and Passalacqua, as well as cultural spots such as Giardini di Villa Melzi.
- Milano: Showcases a blend of modern luxury and historical gems with entries like Portrait Milano, the historic Cimitero Monumentale, and the elegant Villa Necchi Campiglio.
- Portofino: Focuses on the refined coastal lifestyle with a spotlight on the Belmond Splendido Mare, the scenic Faro di Portofino, and the picturesque village of Manarola.
- Toscana: Delves into the rustic elegance of Tuscany with locations such as Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco, the beautiful town of Pienza, and the unique architectural site of La Scarzuola.
- Firenze: Captures the essence of Florence's cultural and culinary scene, highlighting the Four Seasons Firenze, historic cafés like Caffè Gilli, and the famous Gelateria Vivoli.
- Venezia: Concludes with Venice's timeless charm, featuring iconic destinations like Belmond Cipriani, the historic Caffè Florian, and the renowned glassmaker Barovier & Toso.
Tim Labenda and Hannes-Vincent Krause are a creative content creator duo based in Berlin. Tim Labenda is a fashion designer who previously ran his eponymous label and served as a consultant for fashion houses like Missoni before turning his focus to interior design and photography. Dr. Hannes-Vincent Krause works as a model, is a full-time psychologist, and is involved in research at a prestigious Berlin-based institute.
Together, they travel the world in search of the extraordinary, unconventional beauty, and hidden craftsmanship. Along the way, they bring their thousands of social media followers along for the journey, offering insights into their eclectic lives.
