BMW has at least two models lined up for this year’s Consorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. We’ve been told that one of them is the 2025 BMW M2 CS.
The lighter, more hardcore version of the M2 coupe is likely to make its global debut later this month. Production could be limited to just 2,000 units.
Reports suggest that the 3.0-liter twin-turbo 6-cylinder engine has been tuned to produce 525 hp, allowing the car to sprint from 0-62 mph in just 3.8 seconds. That’s quicker than the M4 Competition. The top speed is said to be pegged at 188 mph.
The M2 CS has already been spotted lapping the Nurburgring in Germany. The car appears to have a more aggressive front fascia with a sporty-looking front bumper and splitter, flared wheel arches, and a ducktail spoiler at the back.
The M2 CS is expected to get a carbon fibre roof, which will lower the center of mass, thus aiding handling. The suspension will also be tweaked for sharper handling.
The second car that will be presented at Villa d’Este is believed to be a new “two door concept.”
Welcome to Siquijor, the Philippines’ mystical “Island of Fire,” where turquoise waterfalls, pristine beaches, and enchanted forests await. Known for its blend of natural beauty, adventure, and spiritual allure, Siquijor is a paradise for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Whether you’re chasing Instagram-worthy sunsets, diving into vibrant marine sanctuaries, or exploring ancient healing traditions, this guide unveils the top things to do in Siquijor in the Philippines.
Overview:
Siquijor Combo Tours
Why juggle a bunch of separate tours when you can enjoy the ideal itinerary?
We’ve made it super easy for you to check out more attractions without any of the stress. You’ll hit all the must-see spots and keep your budget happy at the same time!
Looking for the best things to do in Siquijor? You’ve come to the right place. Here’s the ultimate list to get the most out of this beautiful destination.
1. Cambugahay Falls
Dive into the heart of Siquijor’s natural wonders at Cambugahay Falls, nestled in the lush jungles of Lazi. This iconic three-tiered waterfall cascades into vibrant turquoise pools, perfect for swimming, relaxing, or channeling your inner Tarzan on the famous rope swings.
Why Visit? Stunning turquoise waters and Instagram-worthy rope swing shots.
Pro Tip: Arrive early (before 8 AM) to beat the crowds and enjoy serene vibes.
Best For: Nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers.
Top Things to Do in Siquijor
2. Paliton Beach
Dubbed “Little Boracay,” Paliton Beach in San Juan is a tranquil escape with powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. Lined with swaying coconut palms, it’s the ultimate spot for beach picnics and breathtaking sunsets.
Why Visit? Iconic sunset views and calm, shallow waters ideal for swimming.
Pro Tip: Tag your photos with #PalitonBeach to join the Instagram buzz.
Best For: Couples, families, and sunset chasers.
Details: No entrance fee; parking and basic amenities available.
Top Things to Do in Siquijor
3. Snorkeling at Tubod Marine Sanctuary
Explore Siquijor’s vibrant marine life at Tubod Marine Sanctuary, a protected haven near San Juan’s resorts. Snorkel through colorful coral reefs teeming with tropical fish and occasional sea turtles.
Why Visit? A thriving ecosystem perfect for eco-conscious travelers.
Pro Tip: Bring your own snorkeling gear or rent from nearby resorts for a budget-friendly adventure.
Best For: Snorkelers, marine enthusiasts, and eco-travelers.
For adrenaline junkies, Salagdoong Beach offers heart-pounding cliff-jumping platforms (5–10 meters) and crystal-clear coves surrounded by limestone cliffs.
Why Visit? Perfect blend of adventure and scenic beauty with picnic facilities.
Pro Tip: Check tide conditions before jumping and wear water shoes for safety.
Best For: Thrill-seekers and beachgoers.
Top Things to Do in Siquijor
5. Century-Old Enchanted Balete Tree
Step into Siquijor’s mystical side at the 400-year-old Balete Tree, believed to be enchanted. Relax in the natural fish spa at its roots while soaking in local folklore about the island’s healers.
Why Visit? A unique blend of nature and spirituality.
Pro Tip: Visit in the late afternoon for cooler weather and fewer visitors.
Best For: Cultural explorers and those seeking a mystical experience.
Top Things to Do in Siquijor
6. Cantabon Cave Exploration
Embark on a thrilling spelunking journey through Cantabon Cave, filled with stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and underground streams. Be ready to crawl, wade, and get muddy!
Why Visit? A bucket-list adventure for cave enthusiasts.
Pro Tip: Hire a local guide for safety and wear quick-dry clothing.
Best For: Adventure travelers and nature explorers.
Top Things to Do in Siquijor
7. Mt. Bandilaan National Park
Hike to the summit of Mt. Bandilaan, Siquijor’s tallest peak, for panoramic views, sacred springs, and serene meditation spots. Stop by the St. Isidore de Labrador Convent, Asia’s largest, en route.
Why Visit? Breathtaking views and spiritual tranquility.
Pro Tip: Wear sturdy shoes and bring water for the hike.
Best For: Hikers and nature lovers.
Top Things to Do in Siquijor
8. Zodiac Falls waterfall adventure Eco-park
Tucked away in San Juan, Zodiac Falls is a hidden gem featuring 12 small waterfalls, each named after a zodiac sign. Perfect for off-the-beaten-path explorers.
Why Visit? A unique, lesser-known waterfall adventure.
Pro Tip: Combine with a motorbike tour for a full day of exploration.
Best For: Waterfall chasers and zodiac enthusiasts.
Top Things to Do in Siquijor
9. Lazi Church & Convent
Step back in time at Lazi Church and Convent, a UNESCO Tentative Site built in 1884 with coral stones and hardwood. This architectural marvel is one of Asia’s oldest and largest convents.
Why Visit? Rich history and stunning Spanish-era architecture.
Pro Tip: Visit during golden hour for the best photos.
Best For: History buffs and architecture lovers.
Top Things to Do in Siquijor
10. Meet a Local Healer (Bolo-Bolo Healing)
Experience Siquijor’s famous healing rituals with a bolo-bolo session, where local healers use herbs, prayers, and a bamboo straw to cleanse negative energies.
Why Visit? A rare cultural and spiritual experience.
Pro Tip: Arrange through a local guide for an authentic session.
Best For: Cultural enthusiasts and spiritual seekers.
Top Things to Do in Siquijor
11. Pitogo Cliff
Perched in San Juan, Pitogo Cliff offers stunning views of the Sulu Sea and lush greenery. It’s a serene spot for sunset walks and photography.
Why Visit? Tranquil escape with breathtaking ocean vistas.
Details: ₱30 entrance fee; open 8 AM–6 PM.
Pro Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and visit in the late afternoon for sunset views.
Best For: Nature lovers and photographers.
Top Things to Do in Siquijor
12. Bucafe Mountain Café Escape
Relax at Bucafe (Bukid Café) in San Juan, a hilltop café with panoramic mountain and sea views. Enjoy smoothie bowls, coffee, and cozy hammocks.
Why Visit? Perfect for unwinding with stunning vistas.
Details: Open 8 AM–7 PM (closed Wednesdays); accessible by motorbike.
Pro Tip: Arrive early for sunset to snag the best seats.
Best For: Foodies and sunset seekers.
Top Things to Do in Siquijor
13. Hapitanan Broomstick Ride
Strike a pose at Hapitanan, a roadside stop where you can “fly” on a broomstick, paying homage to Siquijor’s witchy folklore.
Why Visit? Fun, Instagram-friendly photo op.
Details: No entrance fee; souvenir shops available.
Pro Tip: Visit during the day for better lighting.
Best For: Families and social media enthusiasts.
Top Things to Do in Siquijor
Siquijor Combo Tours
Why juggle a bunch of separate tours when you can enjoy the ideal itinerary?
We’ve made it super easy for you to check out more attractions without any of the stress. You’ll hit all the must-see spots and keep your budget happy at the same time!
Swim through the crystal-clear waters of Sambulawan Underground River in Lazi, a 150-meter cave adventure with stalactites and stalagmites.
Why Visit? Unique spelunking and swimming experience.
Details: ₱250 entrance fee (includes life vest and flashlight); guided tours mandatory.
Pro Tip: Wear water-friendly attire and avoid if claustrophobic.
Best For: Adventure seekers.
Top Things to Do in Siquijor
15. Larena Triad Coffee Viewpoint
Sip a mango shake at Larena Triad Café, a hilltop spot with sweeping views of Siquijor’s coastline.
Best For: Couples and coffee lovers.
Why Visit? Cozy vibes and stunning sunset views.
Details: No entrance fee; pay for food and drinks.
Pro Tip: Visit in the late afternoon for the best experience.
Top Things to Do in Siquijor
16. Siquijor Butterfly Sanctuary
Wander through the Siquijor Butterfly Sanctuary in Cang-apa, home to 20 butterfly species and a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
Why Visit? Educational and serene nature experience.
Details: ₱50 entrance fee; open 8 AM–5 PM.
Pro Tip: Combine with a visit to Mt. Bandilaan.
Best For: Families and eco-tourists.
Top Things to Do in Siquijor
17. Siquijor Nightlife Scene
While Siquijor is renowned for its tranquil beaches and mystical charm, the island also offers a delightful nightlife for those looking to unwind after sunset. Centered primarily in the San Juan area, visitors can enjoy live music, beachfront bars, and cultural events that reflect the island’s unique spirit.
Top spots include:
Baha Ba’r: Located in Maite, San Juan, Baha Ba’r is a must-visit spot known for its traditional Filipino architecture, open-air setup, and creative local cuisine. With live music and a buzzing crowd, it offers an unforgettable evening experience.
JJ’s Backpackers: Every Friday and Saturday, JJ’s becomes the heart of Siquijor’s nightlife, featuring live music until 2 AM and DJ sets until 4 AM. The party atmosphere, combined with affordable drinks, makes it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Wakanda Beach Bar: For those interested in Latin rhythms, Wakanda offers Bachata and Latin Nights every Monday, providing a lively dance experience right on the beach.
RumBar: A cozy spot known for its live music and engaging drinking games, perfect for a relaxed evening with friends.
Republika Beach Bar: Situated near Baha Ba’r, Republika offers grilled delights and stunning beach views, making it an ideal spot for a laid-back night out.
Whether you’re in the mood to dance the night away or enjoy a quiet drink by the sea, Siquijor’s nightlife has something to offer every traveler.
Top Things to Do in Siquijor
More Fun Activities in Siquijor
Motorbike Tour: Rent a motorbike (₱300–500/day) to explore the island’s 72-km coastal road.
Cang-Isok House: Snap photos at this iconic stilt house by the sea during sunset.
Apo Island Day Trip: Snorkel with sea turtles just a short boat ride away.
Travel Tips for Siquijor
Best Time to Visit: March–May (dry season) for sunny skies and calm seas.
Getting Around: Motorbikes are the best way to explore; rentals are affordable and widely available.
Where to Stay: San Juan offers the best beaches, resorts, and nightlife.
What to Pack: Sunscreen, water shoes, quick-dry clothing, and a reusable water bottle.
Connectivity: Wi-Fi is available at most cafés and resorts, but signal can be spotty in remote areas.
Ready to explore Siquijor? This mystical island promises adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. Plan your trip today and discover why Siquijor is the Philippines’ hidden gem!
Our mission at Travis Travel and Tours is to be the top choice for exceptional package tours in Dumaguete City, Siquijor Island, and South Cebu. We focus on creating unforgettable travel experiences with a personal touch. By offering a wide range of hotel, tour, and resort options, we’ve built strong relationships with our clients. Our curated itineraries provide amazing savings and diverse experiences tailored to every traveler’s needs.
Our mission at Travis Travel and Tours is to be the top choice for exceptional package tours in Dumaguete City, Siquijor Island, and South Cebu. We focus on creating unforgettable travel experiences with a personal touch. By offering a wide range of hotel, tour, and resort options, we’ve built strong relationships with our clients. Our curated itineraries provide amazing savings and diverse experiences tailored to every traveler’s needs.
Looking at buying a generator for your motorhome, campervan or even caravan? Not sure what size generator you need or how to choose the best? Here’s everything you need to know about motorhome generators.
Don’t forget to grab your FREE motorhome maintenance checklist below to help you
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Motorhome Generators- do you even need one?
Ok, let’s start with the obvious- do you even NEED a generator in your motorhome?
Honest answer?
No, you probably don’t. But you might want one…
When might you use a generator in your motorhome or campervan?
The point of most motorhome generators is as a backup power unit, so it’s there if you really need it. If you plan to spend most of your motorhome holidays using campsites, you will rarely have an opportunity to use a generator at all.
Even if you prefer to use aires or approved motorhome parkup spots, most of them aren’t places you can comfortably use a generator.
If you prefer off-grid parking/ wild camping with your motorhome, it’s also likely that you won’t use a generator very often, especially if you have another way to top up your leisure battery- like a solar panel.
Heck, in the 3 years I had one, I only used it a handful of times, so it really shouldn’t be top of your essential motorhome accessories to buy list.
BUT… it’s those times when you REALLY need to boost your motorhome batteries, especially if you stay off-grid a lot, when you might benefit from having a gen-set on board.
Having said that, it is NOT one of the main things you need to go motorhome wild camping, so don’t think you need one in order to be able to stay away from campsites- that’s not the case.
Do I use a generator in my motorhome?
As I mentioned above, I carried a motorhome generator for 3 years. It was bulky, it was heavy and I could never start the thing.
And, EVERY SINGLE TIME I used it was so I could charge our laptops.
So, I’ve now traded the generator for a portable power bank, which suits my needs much better. I also don’t stay in one place for several days, which is when a generator becomes invaluable.
Here’s how to decide if a generator or a powerbank is best for you:
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So, whilst I no longer use one, they are still useful for the right people. Read on to help choose what’s best for you.
What is the best portable generator for a motorhome or camping?
I am a firm believer in there rarely being one ‘best’ product for everyone. And it’s the same for motorhome generators.
Having said that, there are a few I recommend for various reasons throughout this post. If you’re in a hurry, here’s a round-up:
Pros and Cons of having a motorhome generator onboard
After a few months with a van, back then, all those years ago, I realised I prefer motorhome wild camping/ off-grid parking. And I like staying up mountains/ in forests/ in the middle of nowhere. And I like to do that for as long as physically possible.
I also work as I travel, so I need ways of recharging our laptops, phones, iPads (not to mention my beloved travel drone)
I have a solar panel which helps top up the motorhome leisure battery, but there have been a few times where I’ve needed a little helping hand. A little ‘boost’ to help charge the devices which can’t be powered by 12v (like my Macbook Pro before the 12v charger).
Don’t forget, if you don’t have mains power, you won’t be able to use any 240v/ 230v devices (3-pin plug), like a hairdryer, microwave, electric kettle or charger. With a generator of sufficient output, you can.
So that’s the biggest pro of having a generator in your motorhome- it allows you to get power for things you need when you otherwise can’t. For me, it was invaluable before the power banks became a thing, like Ecoflow and Jackery.
Cons of a motorhome generator
There are several downsides to carrying a generator onboard your motorhome or camper:
Initial cost
Space- finding somewhere to store it
Weight- it eats into your motorhome payload
Having to carry fuel for it
Maintenance
Noise
All of these things are big reasons not to buy a generator- and they’re valid reasons. I only got one (many years ago now) when going motorhoming in Norway and knew I wanted to stay away from campsites for as long as possible.
Still, if you’re still convinced you want a generator for your motorhome or campervan, here’s how to choose the best option for you.
How to choose the right motorhome generator for you
Let’s be honest, most of us are conditioned to think that bigger is better (no sniggering in the back row please… ?) However, just like I discovered there were some big downsides to a motorhome over 3.5tonnes, I also realise that you don’t need to buy the biggest portable generator possible, even if you can fit it into a locker and you magically have the payload to spare.
There are several things to look for:
Physical size
Weight (both to lift AND towards your motorhome payload)
Power output level (and frequency) – UK is 230v/ 50hz
Noise output level
Fuel type
Socket type
Starting method (I HATE pull starts, even though that’s what I had- but button starts are so much easier!
Motorhome Generator Guide
What size generator do you need for a motorhome?
There are two types of size to consider- the physical size of the genset, and the amount of power it produces.
Physical size
Physical size is fairly obvious- does it fit where you want it to go when it’s being stored? Whether you need to put it under a seat (as I did), or you’re lucky enough to have a motorhome with a garage or external storage locker, you need to make sure it will physically fit where you want.
Don’t forget to consider height, as well as width and depth- many potential motorhome generators are too tall to go under a seat, especially with a cross beam.
I also don’t recommend a generator with wheels, as it takes up too much room. However, if you have a garage, you might prefer a type with wheels so it’s easier to move, especially if you have a ramp.
Weight
The other thing to think about is the weight. The weight & payload of your motorhome is an obvious consideration, but so if the fact that you will need to lift it in and out of your motorhome or camper. If it’s too heavy, you’re either going to injure yourself, or never ever use it because it’s too heavy to get out- which defeats the point of buying it.
As a (very) rough guide, a 1000w model weighs about 15kg, but a 2000w generator could weigh over 20kg.
Power Output- how big do you need?
So, how much power do you need in a motorhome generator? What size is sufficient?
The obvious answer is ‘the one which allows you to run and use whatever you want to run and use’. If you just want to top up your leisure battery, or give phones/ iPads a quick charge, you can get away with as little as a 1kw generator.
If you want to use anything which is over 1000w in power (look at the label on the device), then you’ll need a generator capable of handling that. For example, many hairdryers are 1800w. To run one, you’d need a generator of at least 1800w PLUS make sure to add a bit (around 20%) for resistance and other loads. I
f you’re planning to use your generator for something with moving parts (like a pressure washer), you need to add even more- around 50%
NOTE: Many portable generators have a ‘maximum’ wattage and a ‘constant or continuous wattage’ value. This means it can handle a higher load for a short period of time (whilst starting up an air conditioning unit or van heater for example), but then it needs to drop down to a running level. So look at the continuous or running wattage as the main figure for prolonged use. There’s a great post here that gives you a guide to some common power usage rates (remember each appliance differs so be sure to check your labels.)
Also, don’t forget the generator needs enough power to run several things at once. It’s highly unlikely you’ll JUST run a hairdryer. You might use the time it’s on to charge electronics, watch TV, cool the fridge, run the air-con, or use the microwave. Make sure to account for all this- or remember to turn one thing off before using another.
But, of course, the bigger the wattage, the heavier and bigger the generator usually is- so it’s all a trade-off. If you need a generator for camping, you need to make sure the weight isn’t so heavy you can’t lift it.
You also need to check the frequency. Most UK generators are 50Hz (UK standard). This is important for using appliances like motorhome TVs, so be sure to check any device you might want to use with the generator, especially if it’s not a UK appliance with a UK generator.
Pure Sine Wave/ Inverter
If you’re planning to power something which needs a smooth power, get something with either pure sine wave or inverter power. (Nope, I’m not an electrician and I’m not even going to try to explain that. All you need to know is that they provide ‘smooth’, constant power, so sensitive devices like game consoles, TVs, laptops etc don’t break due to a power surge or dip. If you’re an electrician, feel free to leave a comment below explaining that better! 🙂 )
Want more tips for motorhoming?
Here are some more ideas you might find useful:
Want FREE checklists, eBooks and additional tips to help? Visit our resource page
How noisy are motorhome generators?
Ok, this is one of the biggest things to consider when choosing the best motorhome generator. Of course, you’ll mainly be using it in the middle of nowhere, but the quieter it is, the more discreet you’ll be.
Don’t believe the ‘silent generator’ hype you hear- ALL generators are engines and make some kind of noise. Loud noise. Ours is fairly quiet (compared to others I’ve experienced) and it’s still pretty loud, especially when you’re outisde.
If you are planning to use your generator near other vans, I aways recommend using it during daylight hours AND asking the other vans nearby first. A little politeness never hurts. Most campsites don’t allow generators to be run during night hours.
I recommend putting your generator in a sheltered spot, ideally a little way away from your camper (if possible) and ideally behind a wall or some rocks- makes it quieter for everyone. Having said that, be aware of security- generators are attractive to thieves so don’t put it too far away and be alert whilst using it. Don’t leave it outside overnight.
What’s the quietest portable generator for camping?
As you can see below, there are a couple of generators I recommend which are under 60db (which is about as loud as background conversation in a restaurant.)
The quietest I have heard good things about are:
Compatibility
Most UK vans use 230v/ 50hz and require a live, neutral and earth. If your generator is not created for the UK market, it may have different levels, which you then need to check are compatible both with the appliances AND the power unit in your motorhome or campervan.
Using a generator not compatible with your vehicle could invalidate the warranty- and can even cause a fire in the motorhome.
NOTE: Many portable generators do not have a separate earth, which can cause some systems to state their is a fault. Consult the handbook or contact the manufacturer if this happens to you.
Socket Type
The generator will have several sockets. These are likely to include either a UK 3-pin plug, or a motorhome power socket. Some also have 12v sockets for charging devices.
IMPORTANT: Commonly, these sockets are NOT waterproof, so don’t use or leave your generator in the rain or damp conditions.
Some of the best motorhome generators in the UK
Here are some of the best generators for motorhomes, campervans, caravans and camping in the UK at the moment.
Böhmer-AG Camo Petrol Inverter Generator
Brand: AIVOLT
Dimensions: 48 x 29 x 41.5 centimetres
Weight: 24kg
Power: 1800 maximum watts and 1700W continuous watts
Fuel: Gasoline
Engine Type- 80cc 4 stroke
Fuel tank capacity: 3 Litres
Run time: 7 hours at 25% load (450W), 5 hours at 50% load（900W）, 3.4 hours at 75% load（1350W）, 3 hours at 100% load.
Sockets- two 240V 3 pin UK plug outputs and a 12V DC output
Noise level: 59dB
Pure Sine Wave Output- gives uninterrupted power suitable for sensitive electronics & digital equipment
Briggs & Stratton Portable Inverter Generator
The inverter technology produces smoother power, meaning you can safely recharge and power sensitive electronics like TVs, laptops, smartphones and gaming systems.
Brand: Briggs and Stratton
Dimensions: 58 x 36 x 49 cm 58 x 36 x 49 cm; 22.8 Kilograms
Weight: 22.8kg
Max output: 2400w
Continuous Output: 1800w
Fuel Type- petrol
Fuel tank capacity: 3.8 Litres
Mad run time: 8 hours (at 25% load)
Sockets- two 230V 3 pin UK plug outputs,a 12V DC output, two 5V USB ports
Noise level: 58dB
Automatic Low Oil Shut Down
CO Guard Carbon Monoxide Shutdown
Requires 0.5 litre SAE30 4-stroke oil for the engine
Pull Start
Here are some other good alternatives:
Does Fuel type matter for camping generators?
Not really. Whatever fuel it uses will be something you’ll need to carry a small can of (in an approved container!) Remember, you can normally store propane for an indefinite time, whereas diesel has a shelf life of between 6 and 12 months and unleaded only about 6 months in an unsealed container.
Does it have to conform to EU5 or EU6 standards?
This is an excellent question: if you’re buying a new motorhome generator, does it need to conform to EU5 or EU6 standards? There are portable generators on the market which proudly state their conformance, but they currently cost WAY more than others on the market- is it worth the extra money and do you NEED to buy one?
Obviously, in an ideal world, we would all buy engines which help reduce emissions and conform to the new standards. But, just like it’s still legal to buy a car which doesn’t conform, it’s still legal to buy an occasional-use generator which doesn’t confirm.
Personally, I don’t believe it’s worth spending all that extra money on something you’re probably only going to use for a few hours a year. There aren’t emissions checks or maintenance checks like there are on other types of engines or more permanent generators, so (for now) I believe you’re perfectly ok getting whichever generator works best.
How to connect your motorhome generator
This bit is pretty easy. The hardest bit is making sure you have bought the correct adapter to link from the generator to your motorhome. The gen-set could use a motorhome power lead (in which case, you can usually use the same one you do for mains power), or it’s a 3-pin plug (so you need to buy a lead like this).
How to use a motorhome generator (step by step)
Take the generator outside
Do any maintenance which needs doing (including adding fuel if necessary)
Start the generator
Let it warm up for a few minutes without load (ie- without it being plugged in)
Plug in ( plug into the motorhome first, then into the generator)
Turn on appliances one at a time, so it’s a gradual build-up instead of a sharp shock
Monitor for a while to make sure everything is ok, then use
Remove power lead BEFORE you turn off
Turn off (you can do this quickly)
Leave to cool down
Drain if required
Store away
How long can a motorhome generator run?
Ok, don’t get confused between the big RV generators (which can be used while the RV is running or even being driven in some cases), and a UK/ European motorhome/ campervan portable generator. Our version is meant to be used as an occasional use backup, not run for 8-14 hours non-stop!
Of course, every generator is different, and many can be run for as much as 6 hours, but I’ve never ran the generator longer than a couple of hours. I never needed to; once everything was fully charged and I’ve used what I’ve needed to, I turned it off.
Keep a log of the hours run
I highly recommend keeping a running tally of the number of hours you use the generator for. You could put a bit of paper inside your motorhome manual, or even better make a note of it in your motorhome logbook.
Motorhome Generator maintenance
It is important to maintain your generator, so that it is available for you to use when you need it.
Be sure to give it a visual inspection every time you get it out and listen for any changes in speed or noise- that could detect an issue which needs fixing. You will hear a difference in the engine noise as you switch appliances on and off (as the load demands change) but also listen for anything outside this.
Other yearly/ regular maintenance checks might include:
Fuel filters- change every 2 years or 400-500 hours (check manufacturers handbook)
Engine oil, filters, air cleaner (if used)
Oil levels
Valves, slip rings and brushes
Exhaust system
Drain water from fuel system (diesel generator)
Check fuel supply lines and other rubber hoses
Like most engines, generators are not great if they’re not used often. Be sure to maintain, clean and run them regularly, even if you don’t need them right then.
Last update on 2025-05-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Scuderia Cameron Glickenhaus was among the first teams to race under the new Le Mans Hypercar class in the World Endurance Championship. Two years ago, the company announced that it would introduce a street-legal version of its LMH-spec machine. Well, the car is almost ready and will be showcased at this year’s Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este.
The street-legal Glickenhaus 007S is currently being readied back at the factory. It looks identical to the Le Mans racer with its teardrop-shaped canopy and the massive front splitter and rear wing. The road version features 3 seats with a centrally positioned driver’s seat.
Underneath the carbon fibre bodywork is a KTech twin-turbo V8 that delivers 1000 hp. We hope to learn more about the technical details of the car by the time of the unveiling.
The company plans to build 24 examples of the Glickenhaus 007S. Production is already underway, with the first customer car (VIN 001) currently being assembled.
Dreaming of snow-capped mountains, quiet cities, and beautiful fjords? So if you’re planning your next trip, this Norway itinerary will guide you step-by-step!
New eBook Alert! Want a brand-new, full-time lifestyle? Check out “The A-Z on Becoming a Digital Nomad!” It’s packed with tools and insider tips. It also has friendly guides to help you live and work from anywhere – Norway included!
You’ll learn everything you need to while exploring. This Norway travel guide also includes budget tips and scenic routes. It’s perfect for a Norway road trip itinerary or a quick tour through Northern Europe. You’ll also see famous attractions, peaceful towns, and epic landscapes you’ll never forget.
Visa Requirements for Filipinos Visiting Norway
For Tourists
Filipino passport holders need a Schengen visa to enter Norway. Here’s what to prepare:
Get your papers ready:
Book your appointment at VFS Global Go online and pick a date. Then visit the center to submit your papers.
Pay the Visa fee Around PHP 4,500 (can change). You pay in NOK.
For OFWs Already in Europe
Already living in a Schengen country like Sweden or Finland? You might not need a new visa. Ask your embassy. Some only need a permit or travel notice.
The One-Week Itinerary
This plan is perfect for a short trip. Great for OFWs or remote workers. You can also extend and explore more places in Scandinavia.
Day 1: Land in Oslo
Arrive at Oslo Central Station
Stay near Kari Johans Gate or book an Airbnb
Walk around Aker Brygge and the Opera House
Watch the sunset at Vigeland Park or Akershus Fortress
Try Yesim for internet on the go (Code: KATRIN8414)
Best Ways to Reach Norway
Planning to come from outside Europe? You don’t always need to fly.
From the Middle East
From Europe
Final Thoughts
Norway is perfect for both adventure and remote work. Plan ahead to avoid extra costs. Book your tickets early. Use free Wi-Fi when you can.
Take a stroll through Oslo. Drive along the Atlantic Road. Watch reindeer in Bodø. Explore fjords like Nærøyfjord. Visit waterfalls near Odda or Voss. Shop local at the fish market. Then relax with your laptop at a café with mountain views.
The best time to visit? Try June, September, or December. Each month has its charm.
Whether you’re exploring Northern Europe, chasing the aurora borealis, or climbing Pulpit Rock, Norway is worth it.
FAQ
Do Filipinos need a visa to visit Norway?
Yes. A Schengen visa is required unless you live in a Schengen country.
Is Norway friendly for Muslim travelers?
Yes! You’ll find halal food in big cities like Oslo and Bergen.
Can I work remotely from Norway as a tourist?
Yes. Just don’t work for a local company. Bring your laptop and find cafés or coworking spaces.
What’s the cheapest way to get around in Norway?
Use trains (book early), city buses, and scooters. Avoid taxis.
Are there Filipino communities in Norway?
Yes! Many work in healthcare or shipping. Join online groups for support and tips.
Maison Brimoncourt is not your average Champagne house but rather a celebration of the art of living. Brimoncourt was founded with a vision to rediscover the original spirit of champagne — a light, joyful wine meant for celebration, meant to be shared freely without the formality that often surrounds it. Brimoncourt is described as “a way of being, inspired by free spirits — it is a chivalrous desire, a sophisticated response to convenience and boredom”. Founded by the charming Alexandre Cornot — a former lawyer, Navy officer and art collector — the Maison aims to return Champagne to its original role as a joyful, shared experience. As an admirer of the terroir and Champagne lover, Alexandre Cornot breathes character and exigency into each and every one of the House’s creations.
Brimoncourt founder Alexandre Cornot
Brimoncourt’s Chardonnays, known for their fine bubbles and delicate floral notes, are crafted from the finest vintages of the Sézanais and Côte des Blancs. Their Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, meanwhile, are sourced from the Montagne de Reims and the Marne Valley. At the helm of this meticulous process is François Huré, the Chief Oenologist, whose mastery in blending reflects a deep respect for the unique terroir of Champagne. With its roots in the historic terroirs of Sézanais, Côte des Blancs, Montagne de Reims and the Marne Valley, Brimoncourt crafts wines that combine finesse with a touch of rebellion. In this exclusive interview, LUXUO speaks to Patrick Sng, founder and CEO of OneCellar, about why Brimoncourt is capturing the hearts of Champagne lovers in Singapore and beyond.
Tell us about the origins of Champagne Brimoncourt
The name Brimoncourt was a historic Champagne but had been abandoned until the label was resurrected by the current owner, Alexander Cornot, in 2008. Cornot had been an art buyer in New York and saw how people took wine more casually, and wanted to revive the celebratory roots of Champagne instead of reinforcing the formal, exclusive stereotypes. The first vintage was released in 2013, and since then, the signature style of the label has been “joyful elegance”.
Why did One Cellar decide to bring Brimoncourt to Singapore’s Champagne lovers?
It is a beautifully fresh Champagne — generous, silky bubbles, elegant structure with a freshness that doesn’t need excessive sweetness or heaviness. We think it fits not just the Singaporean palate, but also the spirit and cuisine of Singapore.
Can you share some thoughts on the terroir of Brimoncourt: Cote des blancs, Montagne de Reims, Ay?
The chardonnays, characterised by their fine bubbles and their floral notes, are made from the finest vintages of the Sézanias and the Côtes des Blancs, regions, where the grape thrives. The Pinot Noir and Pinot Munier stem from the Montagne de Reims and the Marne Valley. The Marne Valley is where darker grape varieties shine, particularly the Pinot Noir in Ay. François Huré, Chief Oenologist, strives to respect the Champagne Terroir and is a master in the art of blending.
What distinguishes Brimoncourt Brut Regence from the rest of the Brimoncourt range?
The Brut Regence is Brimoncourt’s signature wine. It’s a blend of 80 percent Chardonnay and 20 percent Pinot Noir, and is aged on lees in the bottles for 48 months. This allows it to develop rich flavours of brioche and toasted nuts, while maintaining a beautiful freshness and a delicate floral fragrance. It’s quite a seductive wine, and goes amazingly with smoked salmon or pan-fried scallops. But of course because of it’s subtle elegance, it’s extremely versatile and divine on it’s own.
Brimoncourt, Cuvees are well-known for their elegance and lightness. Do you think that makes them perfect wines to pair with food, as opposed to heavier champagne that would overtake the flavours of a dish?
Their lightness and elegance make them the perfect, versatile champagne to always have on hand. Their light flavours certainly make them particularly pairable with Asian cuisines. Lightly fried dishes like fried rice variations and many dim sum options are on point with these wines. Plus, they are surprisingly versatile with deep-fried dishes, think tempura and batter-fried chicken and fish. This also makes them compatible with western fusion dishes, or on their own. They’re suitable for a number of occasions.
Do you have a personal favourite from the Brimoncourt range, and what would you pair it with?
Personally, I love the Extra Brut. The grapes are rigorously selected from 6 Grand Cru villages in outstanding years. It spends 4 years maturing in the cellar, giving it refined complexity; the winemaking skills really shine through. With a very low dosage of only 2 grams of sugar, it stays dry and fresh on the palate which spotlights the quality of the vines. Bubbles are fine, the citrus and minerality are a delight if you prefer a drier wine.
When do you recommend drinking the subtle, Brimoncourt brut rosé?
We think of this bottle as “bookends”, or a “before and after” kind of bubbly. On a weekend afternoon, it’s a luxury to open a bottle of Champagne, particularly after a hike at MacRitchie Reservoir or a day of running errands. If you can pair this at home with an afternoon thunderstorm and a bit of brie cheese and prosciutto, you’ve hit the pairing jackpot. Before dinner, it’s fresh and whets the palate.
On the other hand, it is perfect to finish a meal with. When you have guests who need one more glass, or if you’re serving a delicious custard with berry compote, this is THE Champagne to have ready. To pair this directly with a meal, I’d recommend roasted veggies or a goat cheese salad.
Do you think Champagne pairs well with Chinese cuisine?
Absolutely! Dim sum and fried rice variations have already been mentioned. Besides that, the acidity in Champagne makes it an excellent match for almost anything featuring scallops, salmon or prawns. Fresh seasonings and subtle herbs served with vegetables are also a good match for Champagne, plus the bubbles go great with steamed or fried dumplings and spring rolls.
Is Maison Brimoncourt in Ay open to visitors? What can guests expect to experience?
Absolutely! Apart from tasting the various cuvees, one can be amazed with the archive of over 8,000 pieces of lithographic stones for various Champagne houses whose labels were once printed on-site 2 centuries ago. Brimoncourt occupies remarkable historic buildings listed in the inventory of the industrial heritage of Champagne. These buildings, designed by Gustave Eiffel, are surrounded by two-hundred-year-old gardens. Visitors are welcome to visit on an appointment basis; either via the Maison’s website https://www.brimoncourt.com/en/ or contact One Cellar at +6593661616 to assist with visitation arrangements.
Tell us about the sustainability policies in place at Champagne Brimoncourt?
Brimoncourt has invested time in slowly building relationships with independent growers who respect and encourage integrated viticulture throughout the vine growing cycle. Through it’s carefully selected partnerships, they support soil and vine nutrition, biodiversity preservation, balance of the vine and strengthening of its natural defences.
Brimoncourt and the Asian consumers, a fast-growing love story?
Brimoncourt meets everything the Asian consumer requires; suitable, delicious and accessible. It’s suitability with Asian food pairings, the exquisite and versatile taste and the accessible price point make it a stunning wine. Not only is it getting high ratings from global wine critics like Jancis Robinson and Wine Enthusiast, but our local audience loves it as well.
For more information, head to the website here or visit the official social media platforms here.
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LVMH’s US CEO, Anish Melwani, said he thinks quiet luxury may be in the past. “I think, hopefully, we’re past the term quiet luxury; that was getting pretty annoying,” Melwani said. Quiet luxury has been the dominant trend in fashion recently, superseding logomania. Quiet luxury might be its way out, and the CEO of LVMH US is pretty happy about it.
Loro Piana’s Resort 2025 Collection, dubbed “A Venetian Reverie”
“I think, hopefully, we’re past the term quiet luxury; that was getting pretty annoying,” the CEO of LVMH US, Anish Melwani, said on a panel at the Milken conference in California on Tuesday. Melwani went on to describe how quiet luxury has played out in two of LVMH’s major maisons — Loro Piana and Fendi. “If you ask Loro Piana, they would say, “We’ve been doing quiet luxury for 50 years.” And if you actually look at Fendi — Fendi has had its periods where it’s been heavily logoed and monogrammed; and there’s been periods where less than 2 percent of the product line had any logo on it at all”, Melwani said. LVMH’s chief, Bernard Arnault, has recognised that customers who purchase luxury goods “are not monolithic in what makes them feel accomplished”. He added that the maisons in LVMH’s portfolio use their heritage to create a “feeling of desirability.”
Fendi 2025 Summer Collection with Song Hye Kyo (Left) and Bang Chan (right)
Representatives for LVMH declined to comment further when contacted. Quiet luxury has been the dominant trend in fashion post-COVID-19. It involves purchasing well-made, exquisitely tailored clothes that lean into minimalism. The trend’s popularity has also seen a boost from TV shows like “Succession”, where its characters shun logos and opt for effortless luxe over “ludicrously capacious” logo-heavy bags.
More importantly, quiet luxury precipitated a push for clothes without flashy logo buckles or prints, which benefited brands like Loro Piana, Brunello Cucinelli, and Hermès over some of the big names in LVMH’s stable of luxury houses, including Dior, Fendi and Louis Vuitton. Bank of America analysts said in January that the quiet luxury trend might just be killing big luxury brands. That’s because logos not being part of the designs make it way easier for people to replicate high-end looks with low-cost dupes, the analysts said.
That analyst note followed a bad year for luxury. LVMH and its industry cohorts’ earnings slumped in 2024 amid macroeconomic headwinds. LVMH has had a rocky start to 2025. On April 14, the company reported first-quarter revenue of EUR 20.3 billion, down 2 percent from a year earlier. In its April 14 earnings statement, however, the company said it “showed good resilience and maintained its powerful innovative momentum despite a disrupted geopolitical and economic environment”. LVMH stock is down 23 percent so far this year in Paris. Melwani has been the chairman and CEO of LVMH in North America since 2016. Prior to that, he was a senior partner at McKinsey.
The serene and sumptuous rooms at Patina have tatami mat daybeds plus washi paper headboards inspired by Osaka Castle’s impressive granite fortifications.
Patina Osaka’s ground-floor restaurant, P72, focuses on seasonal produce sourced nearby and plucked daily from the hotel’s urban garden.
Consciously crafted design is found throughout the hotel, including at Sonata Bar & Lounge, where more than 15,000 pounds of upcycled vintage Japanese speakers are jigsawed across a wall.
An emphasis on wellness means not only pampering spa treatments but advanced health tech, movement, and meditation sessions over an entire floor.
I checked in Patina Osaka two days before its glass doors officially slid open to guests on May 1, a bit sleep deprived after a red-eye flight with my 15-month-old daughter. The graceful yet stimulating design comprised layered exterior walls that mimic rammed earth, abundant warm wood, a mesmerizing commissioned video wall projection by Takashi Makino, and tactile materials such as ethereal washi paper and grounded granite and ceramic.
After being whisked 14 floors up to our corner suite on the fringes of downtown, the curtains opened to reveal Osaka Castle facing me square on, with its surrounding lush park as a halo—one that, just weeks ago, I was told, had erupted in cherry blossoms. I instantly felt at peace. That verdant vista of a piece of ancient, intricate architecture centered me in storied Osaka and proved a delightfully consistent through line for my stay.
I gazed at the castle constructed in 1583 by samurai Toyotomi Hideyoshi (and later rebuilt by a different shogun) through the 20-story hotel’s floor-to-ceiling glass windows while eating breakfasts of locally crafted Japanese cheeses, juicy regionally grown fruits, just-baked pastries with house-made preserves, and flavorful Basque stew with savory sausage at Iñaki. I peeked at it during swims in the sublime lap pool and while soaking in the onsen-like hot tub. I admired it over afternoon tea at Nijiri, the shoji-walled tea lounge whose name references the reverential act of kneeling or crouching to enter a tea house.
It was intriguing to see how Capella Hotel Group bonded this first urban Patina hotel with its tropical island resort in the Maldives, known as a highly connected social hub with experiential art, activations, and elevated takes on sustainability. Here, despite the surrounding metropolis, the rhythms of nature are felt through design, cuisine, and what is likely Osaka’s first edible garden at an urban hotel, already growing 20 different herbs—chervil, chamomile, wild strawberries, borage flowers, and six different types of mint. This contributed to beautiful surprises, moments of repose, and bold flavors on each day of my visit.
Patina Osaka has 221 rooms and suites, and while they vary in view and size, all feature design hallmarks that embody a sense of place. The 3D washi paper headboards behind cognac-hued leather and wood beds—dressed in silky Frette bedding in a delicate granite color made custom for the hotel—were molded from a section of the castle’s granite stone wall, ancient imperfections and all. The elegant, minimalist light pendants feel very Japanese, as do the large tatami mat–slash–window seats and ceramic wall hangings repaired with gold à la kintsugi. The bathroom, with a rain shower, copper fixtures, a large soaking tub, and a mosaic of natural gray stone, felt sumptuous and modern. I adored wearing the fluffy Garnier Thiebaut bathrobe and super-soft Japanese pajamas in jade green that matched the castle roof. The in-room yoga mat and ceramic cups for tea from the well-stocked minibar followed the same color inspiration.
My Junior Suite, at 807 square feet, was pleasantly spacious with plentiful cushy places to recline, sit, and work, or play with my toddler—or let her nap in the bedroom with the lovely washi-covered doors slid shut while I took a quiet bath or hung out in the living room. Perhaps the best perk of the suite was the large balcony with ample plump seating and an atmospheric floor lamp, a glorious extension of the indoor space for prime castle viewing.
When I walked through the standard 538-square-foot Deluxe Room, it felt perfectly sized, especially for a couple or solo traveler, still with a generous bathroom including a tub and a tatami daybed with a legless Japanese zaisu chair atop it. The hotel’s penthouse-type accommodation is the castle-facing Patina Suite, equipped with its own turntable and sound system plus a minimalist Japanese-style meditation room.
Food and Drink
Enjoy afternoon tea and small treats at Nijiri.
Georg Roske/Patina Osaka
“It’s my baby,” Antony Scholtmeyer, the hotel’s culinary director, told me, looking ecstatic as he carefully pulled up the very first fennel from the sun-drenched edible garden outside P72, the restaurant, which he conceived after spending seven years at Capella Bangkok.
The ground-floor restaurant’s name references the 72 micro seasons acknowledged in Japan, called shichijūni-kō, and translates to a new tasting menu every few days, depending on what the organic farm on nearby Awaji Island sends in their weekly 44-pound omakase veg box. For our lunch, he cleaned and divided the fennel into parts to poach and serve with sea bream and risotto of house-fermented lemon koji rice and garden peas. The idea behind the lunch- and afternoon tea–only restaurant is to waste as little as possible. Instead of letting the lemon tree’s leaves fall and wither, the culinary team makes oils to use in Scholtmeyer’s imaginative cooking. Onion skin is cooked, pureed, and dehydrated with several other simple ingredients into a wafer; oysters are wrapped in fermented cherry blossom leaves. “With fermenting and pickling, you can reuse a lot of things you’d waste,” he told me of the conscious outlet’s ethos, which is designed with local diners in mind.
The top floors, 19 and 20, are dedicated to four additional dining concepts. There, the hotel’s overarching theme of kisetsukan, meaning seasonal awareness, is felt most evidently at Iñaki. The Basque all-day dining restaurant features bountiful installations of preserved flowers and flora hanging from the wood-coffered ceiling to represent the four seasons. It’s where we devoured breakfast with a side of Osaka Castle views, and dined on wood-fired octopus with black ink sauce, tender Iberico pork, and seawater ice cream with olive oil and almond foam that I can’t stop thinking about. My toddler’s spaghetti and meatballs were so delicious, I couldn’t help but steal bites.
Enjoy a teppanyaki experience at Barin.
Georg Roske/Patina Osaka
Barin is the hotel’s high-end teppanyaki restaurant, seating 10 people at the counter and up to 16 in booths lining a long mural hand-drawn on gold leaf depicting Osaka’s history. There, the two well-pedigreed chefs prepared melt-in-my-mouth Kuroge wagyu on the teppan—which originated in Kobe, not too far from Osaka—in-season spiny lobster, as well as a type of onion so sweet and delicious it blew me away.
Beyond the Setouchi granite Stone Garden and Nijiri Tea Lounge, the striking spiral staircase clad in indigo dip-dyed washi paper and leading upstairs to Sonata Bar & Lounge was one of my personal favorite design moments. Up in the dynamic, moodily lit music-themed space, bartenders mixed libations inspired by Osaka’s 1970 world’s fair using Japanese ingredients (one described my Tiger Child cocktail—Roku gin, dry vermouth, and mirin rice wine—as a “Japanese culture martini”). The bar also hosts weekly vinyl collector gatherings around a long communal table and a DJ booth turntable on which guests are welcome to pop on their own selection from the 6,000-strong record collection. Sonata’s private room is the most atmospheric of all, with a jigsaw puzzle wall of 15,000 pounds of Japanese-made vintage analog speakers behind a long, cozy sofa.
It’s worth mentioning that all dining outlets went out of their way to accommodate my friend’s gluten and dairy allergies, even ensuring she had her own brown sugar scones and pretty savories and sweets during our afternoon tea at Nijiri.
Activities and Experiences
Panoramic views of Osaka and Osaka Castle from the indoor pool.
Georg Roske/Patina Osaka
The hotel’s gorgeous indoor swimming pool and jetted hot pool, along with the spa and wellness facilities, provide plenty of ways to spend a day, but there is much more to choose from when it comes to planning your time.
There are two Perpetual Journeys per day, meant to invite reflection or wonder; they’re complimentary for guests and change every couple of months. For the moment, these include guided castle park jogs, breathwork, stretching, and aqua walking as Patina Rise activities in the mornings. The Listening Room by OJAS, with its world-class speaker system and vinyl selection curated by sound sculptor Devon Turnbull, is the site of morning soundscape sessions.
There are fermentation workshops and hands-on Soba to Ōmugi lunches happening regularly in P72, plus a weekly immersive design tour led by general manager Ellen Franke. At a charge, guests may also book a cute Patina Osaka wagon, packed with chairs, cuddly blankets, bites, and drinks for a bucolic picnic in the park.
The Spa
A spa treatment room.
Georg Roske/Patina Osaka
Patina Wellness sprawls across a full floor for a 15,000-square-foot glass-wrapped wellbeing oasis. The spa is well rounded not only from an indulgent and restorative treatment perspective, but in the way it weaves advanced health technology into the experiences. I tried two packages that paired both during my stay. First was an anti-aging and beauty-focused treatment that combined 20 minutes in a relaxingly warm red light bed with a Japanese Microbiome and Fermented Enzyme Facial. It featured skincare made similarly to sake, with aged fermented rice bran, and the truly divine textures made the hydrating treatment even more sensorial. Another day, after a tranquil stint in the hyperbaric oxygen chamber, I sank into bliss during a signature body treatment with light dry brushing and soft-tissue massage using rose hip-scented coconut oil.
While they feel pampering, the treatments are all quite intentional in their purpose, including offerings like the infrared sauna, cryotherapy, and compression therapy. Guests can book floating stand-up paddle board yoga at the pool or personal training in the Technogym-equipped fitness center. I chose to swim slow laps in the 65-foot pool, enjoying the sight of the rippling water as warm copper light cascaded from the oversized wood-slat coffers in the soaring ceiling.
Family-friendly Offerings
Traveling with my toddler, we experienced firsthand how little ones are treated, and it involved striped teepees, sustainable wooden toys, preemptively baby-proofed furniture corners, a diaper pail and baby tub, and a white chocolate “photograph” of the two of us as a poignant welcome amenity in our suite.
On opening day, I was pleasantly surprised by the number of families and multigenerational groups that checked in. I was told the forthcoming kids’ programming here may include origami sessions. In the meantime, restaurants were all equipped with high chairs, a kids’ menu, and special creations arrived for my daughter on cute wooden bear plates.
For our castle picnic, the staff packed milk and customized a food box with her favorite fruits (i.e. tons of blueberries and sliced banana). What truly made me feel she was genuinely welcomed was the super kind staff, who clearly relished engaging with not only my child, whom they affectionately called Mira-chan (-chan being an endearing Japanese suffix often used for kids), but other little ones, too.
Accessibility and Sustainability
The Patina Membership lounge.
Georg Roske/Patina Osaka
Accessibility seemed to me a priority of the hotel, which has three ADA rooms and features accessible elevators, wheelchair-friendly halls and restaurant entries, and a handicap lift for the pool.
Local production and sourcing, upcycling, zero single-use plastic, and creative reuse are at the heart of Patina Osaka’s thoughtful sustainability efforts. I was impressed with how well the designers behind it made use of scraps, whether in P72’s undulating 170-foot ceiling installation inspired by plant roots and made with wood bits reclaimed from an Osaka factory, the turndown satchel of fragrant hinoki wood shavings to aid in pre-sleep relaxation, or artwork by Osakan ceramist Toru Hatta made from construction waste. A sizable painting by Wataru Hatano in Sonata Bar & Lounge dubbed “Mud” features dirt unearthed from the hotel’s construction site.
And one of my personal favorites, a fiery abstract piece in Iñaki’s private dining room, was fashioned from curlicue cones of vibrant recycled paper. Even the hotel’s green ink pens are recycled—and recyclable—cardboard. Beverages are bottled only in glass or metal, and bathrooms are stocked with large bottles of toiletries by B Corp–certified Bamford.
Location
Osaka Castle and its surrounding park—heaving with cherry trees and Japanese maples for vibrant displays in spring and fall—couldn’t be closer to the hotel and is a major attraction of the foodie city. Some rooms and restaurants face Naniwa-no-Miya-Ato Park, which has an expansive green lawn and coffee shops. Though it feels on the edge of Osaka’s concrete jungle, Patina Osaka is only about 10 minutes by taxi from luxury designer boutiques, the hilariously oversized 3D, kinetic signage and markets of Dotonbori, and the cool shopping-centric Tachibana Street (nicknamed Orange Street) in the relaxed, friendly, and open-minded destination.
Uber is available, and there’s Lupe for e-bike and scooter rentals. Guests can borrow, for no charge, one of four Mate e-bikes for spins around the park or beyond, say to Tanimachi nearby for local neighborhood vibes including charming izakayas, gyoza shops, and excellent, one-woman restaurants such as Tachiaoi. The hotel offers a shuttle three times a day to and from the closest train stations, which could take you to Kyoto in just 20-30 minutes or to the Osaka World Expo 2025, running through October 13, 2025.
How to Get the Most Value Out of Your Stay
Patina Osaka is part of Patina Hotels & Resorts’ Discovery loyalty program, allowing members to earn rewards on purchases and stays.
A great road trip isn’t just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about the moments in between. The spontaneous detours, the breathtaking overlooks, the roadside picnics that turn into unexpected highlights. But to truly embrace the journey, you need the right road trip items—not just the basics, but a few thoughtfully chosen extras that bring comfort, convenience, and maybe even a little indulgence to the ride. Whether it’s a portable espresso maker for a scenic morning brew, or a packable hammock for those picture-perfect rest stops, these road trip picks will transform the way you experience the open road.
Espresso on the Go: This road trip item lets you brew like a Barista
For coffee lovers who believe a road trip should be as much about the journey as the destination, the OutIn Nano Portable Electric Espresso Machine is a game-changer. Why settle for gas station coffee when you can brew a rich, barista-quality espresso wherever the road takes you? Whether you’re parked at a scenic overlook, setting up camp in the wilderness, or just need a caffeine boost before tackling another stretch of highway, this sleek and compact espresso maker ensures you never have to sacrifice quality for convenience. With fast heating, powerful extraction, and a lightweight design, it’s the perfect luxury-meets-practicality addition to your road trip gear. Because a great road trip isn’t just about where you’re going—it’s about how you fuel the adventure along the way.
Why It’s a Cool Road Trip Item:
Brew Anywhere, Anytime – No need to search for a café; make fresh espresso in minutes, whether you’re at a campsite, a roadside picnic, or taking in a sunrise from your car.
Compact & Travel-Friendly – Weighing just 670 grams, it’s easy to pack and store without taking up valuable space.
Powerful & Versatile – With self-heating capability, and compatibility with both ground coffee and capsules, you get café-quality results no matter where you are.
Click here for more info and to purchase.
The Cooler That Goes Beyond Cold: Meet the Bote Kula 10
A road trip should be about soaking in the adventure—not worrying if your drinks are still cold or if your snacks have turned soggy. That’s where the Bote Kula 10 Cooler changes the game. More than just an ice chest, this innovative, stylish, and ultra-functional cooler keeps your road trip refreshments perfectly chilled for days. Designed with a smart, ergonomic shape that fits cans and bottles better, it’s made to be both practical and undeniably cool. With built-in features like a bottle opener, a cushioned top for seating, and MAGNEPOD™ attachment points for securing your essentials (phone, drinks, etc.), this is the kind of road trip upgrade you didn’t know you needed—but won’t want to go without.
Why The Kula 10 is a Great Road Trip Item:
More Than a Cooler—It’s a Roadside Throne – The EVA foam cushioned lid doubles as a comfy seat, perfect for kicking back at a scenic overlook or around the campfire.
Holds Ice (and Style) for Days – With a sleek, innovative design and vibrant color options, this cooler keeps drinks ice-cold for the long haul while looking good doing it.
Packed with Smart Features – From a built-in bottle opener to a 270º easy-open hinge, this cooler is designed for convenience, making every rest stop feel like a mini getaway.
Click here for more info and to purchase.
Power Anywhere: The Anker SOLIX C1000 Portable Power Station
When you’re living life on the road, power is freedom—and the Anker SOLIX C1000 delivers it in spades. Whether you’re camping off-grid, working remotely from your car, or just want to keep your devices charged and your camp lights on, this rugged power station is a road trip essential that goes far beyond the average battery pack. With 11 output ports, including AC, USB-C, and car outlets, it powers everything from laptops and phones to electric grills and air pumps—all at once. Even better, thanks to HyperFlash™ charging, the SOLIX C1000 goes from zero to fully charged in just 58 minutes, making it one of the fastest-charging power stations in its class.
Its drop-proof unibody construction, real-time LCD display, and built-in LED light make it a reliable companion for any adventure, whether you’re lighting up your basecamp, inflating gear, or juicing up your drone. And with a 50,000-hour lifespan, it’s not just a short-term solution—it’s an investment in road trip independence.
Why It’s a Great Road Trip Item:
Ultra-Fast Recharging – Fully charges in under an hour, so you’re ready to hit the road again without long waits.
Power Everything, Anywhere – With 11 ports, it can simultaneously charge or run all your must-haves, from phones to laptops to mini appliances.
Rugged, Road-Ready Design – Built tough with drop-proof durability, temperature monitoring, and a built-in camp light for after-dark adventures.
Because when the open road calls, you shouldn’t have to worry about running out of juice.
Turn Up the Adventure: Bose SoundLink Max Portable Speaker
A road trip isn’t just about the sights—it’s about the soundtrack. Whether you’re pulling over for a scenic picnic, hitting the beach, or setting up camp for the night, the Bose SoundLink Max Portable Speaker makes every stop along the journey feel like an experience. With epic stereo sound and deep bass, this powerhouse speaker fills any space with rich, immersive audio. Dust-proof and water-resistant, it’s built for the unpredictability of the road, ensuring your playlist keeps going no matter the conditions. And with a removable handle and compact design, it’s easy to grab and go, bringing the party wherever the adventure takes you. Because the best road trips deserve a killer soundtrack—and this speaker makes sure the music never stops. Speaking of soundtracks, check out my Top-20 Road Trip Songs list.
Why It’s a Great Road Trip Item:
Big Sound, Anywhere – Crisp highs, deep bass, and powerful stereo sound turn any rest stop, campsite, or roadside break into a personal concert.
All-Day Battery & Device Charging – With 20 hours of battery life, you’ll have tunes from sunrise to sunset, plus a built-in USB-C port to charge your phone on the go.
Rugged & Road-Ready – Built to handle the elements with an IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating, so you never have to worry about spills, sand, or sudden downpours.
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Explore More, Drive Less: The Velotric Folding E-Bike for Road Trippers
One of the best parts of a road trip is the freedom to explore—but that doesn’t always mean driving everywhere. With the Velotric Folding E-Bike, you can set up camp, park farther away, and cruise effortlessly through city streets, scenic trails, or charming small towns—all without moving your vehicle. Designed for power, portability, and versatility, this compact e-bike folds down in three simple steps, making it easy to store in your trunk, RV, or even a closet. With a powerful 750W motor, 55-mile range, and hydraulic disc brakes, it delivers smooth, confident riding whether you’re tackling hills or coasting along the beach. Plus, with its low step-through design and customizable accessories, it’s built for every type of rider—whether you’re an adventure junkie, urban explorer, or just want to make your road trip more effortless and fun. Because a road trip isn’t just about the drive—it’s about the adventure waiting beyond the parking lot.
Why the Velotric Folding E-Bike is a Great Road Trip Item:
Adventure Without Limits – With a 55-mile range and a 750W motor, you can explore further without relying on your vehicle (up to 28mph).
Compact & Convenient – Folds in 3 steps to fit in any trunk, RV, or storage space—perfect for those with limited room.
Customizable & Built to Last – Outfitted with hydraulic disc brakes, waterproof components, and a reinforced frame, it’s designed to handle whatever the road (or trail) throws at you.
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Blend Anywhere: Fresh Drinks on the Go with the Ninja Blast
Why settle for gas station sodas when you can whip up a fresh smoothie, protein shake, or even a homemade cocktail from the comfort of your car? The Ninja Blast Portable Blender is the ultimate road trip sidekick, letting you blend up refreshing drinks wherever adventure takes you. Compact, rechargeable, and water-resistant, this sleek blender packs serious power into a travel-friendly design. Whether you’re parked at a scenic overlook or fueling up for a hike, the Ninja Blast makes it easy to enjoy fresh, on-the-go beverages without the hassle of bulky kitchen appliances.
Why This Ninja Blast is a Great Road Trip Item:
Fresh Blends, Anytime, Anywhere – Juice up a refreshing smoothie, mix a protein shake, or blend a cocktail at a rest stop—all powered by a rechargeable battery.
Designed for Travel – With a BPA-free, dishwasher-safe container, a leak-proof sippy lid, and a water-resistant base, it’s made for mess-free mixing on the move.
Small But Mighty – Compact yet powerful, stainless steel blades and a 30-second blend cycle make quick work of fruits, ice, and more—so you can sip in style wherever the road takes you.
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Hang Anywhere, Relax Everywhere: The ENO Hammock Road Trip Essential
A road trip isn’t just about the drive—it’s about those perfect moments when you pull over, take in the scenery, and truly unwind. That’s why the ENO Hammock is a game-changer. Ultra-packable, ridiculously comfortable, and endlessly versatile, it lets you set up the ultimate lounge spot wherever the road takes you. Whether you’re stretching out for a midday nap, enjoying a sunset snack, or simply soaking in the surroundings, this hammock transforms any stop into an impromptu oasis—no (standing) trees required. Because a great road trip isn’t just about where you’re going—it’s about how you relax along the way.
Why The ENO Hammock is a Great Road Trip Item:
Packs Down Small, Sets Up Fast – Weighing just over a pound and packing into a tiny stuff sack, the ENO hammock takes up almost no space but delivers big on comfort.
Hang It Anywhere – No trees? No problem. Use rock outcroppings, car racks, poles, or even a sturdy driftwood structure (as seen in the photo) to create the perfect lounging spot.
The Ultimate Break Spot – Whether you need a cozy seat for a trailside snack or a full-body hammock for a midday snooze, it’s the easiest way to turn any stop into a mini getaway.
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Stay Inflated, Stay Prepared: The Worx Portable Air Compressor
A road trip is all about the open road—until a low tire slows you down. That’s where the Worx 20V Portable Air Compressor comes in. This compact, cordless powerhouse is a game-changer for anyone traveling with bikes, scooters, sports equipment, or just the peace of mind that comes with being prepared. Unlike old-school inflators that rely on a cigarette lighter, this battery-operated compressor gives you total freedom to inflate tires, top off low pressure wherever you are. With a digital gauge, auto shut-off, and built-in emergency light, it’s the road trip companion you’ll never want to leave behind. Because a great road trip is about freedom—and nothing should slow you down.
Why It’s a Great Road Trip Item:
No Outlet, No Problem – Cordless and battery-powered, it works anywhere, making it easy to inflate tires, sports balls, or air mattresses at the push of a button.
Smart & Safe Inflation – The digital LED gauge lets you preset the desired PSI, while the auto shut-off prevents over-inflation.
Compact, Yet Powerful – With up to 150 PSI, a built-in LED work light, and onboard storage for multiple nozzles, this small but mighty tool is perfect for any roadside adventure.
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Stay Fresh Anywhere: The FLEXTAILGEAR MAX Portable Shower
A road trip is about adventure, but that doesn’t mean you have to embrace the dirt that comes with it. Whether you’re rinsing off after a sandy beach day, washing down a muddy bike, or giving your pet a quick clean before they jump back in the car, the FLEXTAILGEAR MAX Portable Shower makes it easy to stay fresh on the go. Lightweight, rechargeable via USB-C, and designed for effortless setup, this compact shower provides powerful water flow at the push of a button. With two pressure settings and a clog-resistant design, it’s the perfect way to bring a little comfort and cleanliness to your outdoor travels. Because the best road trips get messy—but that doesn’t mean you have to stay that way.
Why It’s a Great Road Trip Item:
Rinse Off Anywhere – Shower after a beach swim, clean off hiking boots, or wash your bike before loading it back into your vehicle—no bulky water bags required.
Compact & Rechargeable – Weighing just 11 ounces and powered by a USB-C battery, this portable shower is easy to pack and ready whenever you need it.
Two Water Flow Modes – Choose between a water-conserving low-flow setting or a stronger high-flow mode, depending on your needs.
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One Key, Total Security: BOLT Locks for the Road Tripper
A great road trip means bringing along all your favorite gear—but keeping it secure shouldn’t mean carrying a dozen different keys. Enter BOLT Lock, the game-changing security solution that syncs to your vehicle’s ignition key. Whether you’re hauling bikes, towing a trailer, or locking up expensive gear at a campsite, BOLT offers a full range of locks that eliminate the hassle of juggling multiple keys. Made by STRATTEC, the leading supplier of automotive locks, BOLT products are nearly impossible to pick, highly weather-resistant, and built to withstand the rigors of the road. From cable locks to trailer hitch security, BOLT lets you lock it all—without the key clutter. Because your focus should be on the journey ahead—not searching for the right key to unlock your gear.
Why It’s a Great Road Trip Item:
One Key for Everything – No more fumbling through a ring of tiny keys—your vehicle’s ignition key unlocks all BOLT locks, from cable locks to hitch receivers.
Built for the Road – With the highest corrosion resistance rating and an automotive-grade weatherproof shutter, these locks can handle any adventure.
Maximum Security, Minimum Hassle – Featuring a 6-plate tumbler sidebar and oversized cylinders, BOLT locks provide top-tier protection against picking and bumping.
Sip in Style: The Adventure-Ready Insulated Mug You Need
Whether you’re watching the sunrise from a mountain overlook or cruising down the highway on your next big road trip, having a quality insulated mug is a game-changer. The Octaroma Lungo by Wacaco is more than just a travel cup—it’s a premium, vacuum-insulated companion that keeps your coffee piping hot or your iced drinks refreshingly cold for hours. Designed for the coffee enthusiast who refuses to settle for lukewarm mediocrity, this sleek, leakproof tumbler locks in flavor and aroma, ensuring every sip is as satisfying as the first. Compact enough to fit in most car cupholders and stylish enough to turn heads at a roadside café, it’s the ultimate way to enjoy your favorite brew—wherever the road takes you.
Why It’s a Great Road Trip Item:
Hot or Cold for Hours – The double-wall stainless steel construction keeps beverages at the perfect temperature, so your coffee stays hot and your iced drinks stay cold.
Leakproof & Travel-Ready – Designed for adventure, the secure lid prevents spills, making it perfect for bumpy roads and unexpected detours.
Sleek Yet Durable – With a premium feel, comfortable thin-lip design, and five stylish colors to choose from, it’s a mug that looks as good as it performs.
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Wine, Anywhere: The High Camp Parkside Flask for Effortless Elegance on the Road
A road trip doesn’t mean leaving the finer things behind—especially when it comes to your favorite bottle of wine. The High Camp Parkside Flask brings the sophistication of stemware to the great outdoors with a beautifully designed, vacuum-insulated flask that keeps wine at the perfect temperature for up to 24 hours. Whether you’re picnicking in a mountain meadow, lounging at the beach, or catching golden hour in the park, this flask lets you sip in style—no corkscrew, plastic cups, or glass bottles required. Available in 375ml or 750ml sizes, and complete with integrated magnetic tumblers, the Parkside Flask turns spontaneous moments into memorable ones. Because some moments on the road deserve more than a twist-cap bottle—they deserve a toast.
Why It’s a Great Road Trip Item:
Elegant Meets Adventure – Ditch the plastic cups and preserve flavor with sommelier-grade stainless steel designed to elevate your wine experience anywhere.
Always the Perfect Temp – Vacuum insulation keeps your favorite red, white, or rosé at just the right temperature for up to 24 hours—no cooler needed.
All-in-One Convenience – With magnetically attached tumblers, a no-drip pour spout, and a wide mouth for easy filling, it’s designed for seamless sipping on the go.
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At the end of the day, road trips are about more than just reaching a destination—they’re about embracing the journey, the pauses, the views, and the unexpected moments along the way. While none of these items may be strictly essential, they each add a layer of comfort, joy, or downright indulgence that turns a simple drive into a memorable adventure. From freshly brewed espresso at a scenic overlook to impromptu wine tastings at sunset or music that fills the campsite, these are the road trip items you never knew you needed—but won’t want to travel without again. So go ahead—elevate your next journey. You deserve it! So, until next time, we’ll see ya on the road…
NOTE:I’ve personally tested every item on this list, and I can confidently say they’ve each earned their place in my travel kit. I’ve also included links to each product so you can easily check them out for yourself—some of which are affiliate links that help support my channel at no extra cost to you. Thanks for coming along for the ride, and here’s to making your next road trip even more enjoyable.
From Abarth’s angry little stingers to V12 Ferraris and everything in between, Italy offers one of the world’s most diverse portfolios when it comes to sports cars. As different as they are, what unites them all is that they’re engineered with passion and overflowing with character.
After all, Italy is known for its zealous dedication to finding beauty and excitement in everything, which definitely reflects on our favorite automotive segment. With that in mind, it is near impossible to make a definitive list of Italy’s greatest sports cars without it being an encyclopedic collection. So, here’s our selection of fifteen amazing Italian sports cars that all played important historical roles, shaping the automotive world to this very day.
Before the Ferraris, the Maseratis, the Abarths, and the Lamborghinis, Alfa Romeo was the quintessential Italian sports car maker—and there’s a common consensus that it all started with the 6C 1500 Sport. It was a 1.5-liter straight-six-powered 2-seater built in several specs, including ones with dual overhead camshafts and a supercharger.
Regardless of particular specification, the 6C 1500 Sport was specifically built to compete in all types of races—including the fabled Mille Miglia, where it won in 1928, scoring the first out of 10 victories for Alfa Romeo.
In addition to competing in prestigious events, Alfa Romeo 6C 1500 Sport appeared in numerous local races, driven by aces who were yet to prove themselves to the developing racing world. One of them was Enzo Ferrari, who established Scuderia Ferrari in 1929 as an Alfa Romeo racing team thanks to his success with this car. So the 6C 1500 Sport not established Alfa Romeo as motorsport royalty but also helped create what would become the most recognizable sports car maker in the world.
Established by Piero Dusio in 1946, the Cisitalia brand didn’t survive long in the unforgiving economic climate of post-WW2 Italy. Still, it is regarded as one of the most influential Italian automotive companies despite being relatively anonymous outside of car enthusiasts’ circles. The main reason for that is this very automobile. The Cisitalia 202 was conveyed as both a road and a race car and was in part engineered by Carlo Abarth.
The chassis and body design was the first project carried out by a young designer named Battista Farina, and it proved to become one of his most influential ones. The Cisitalia’s fluid, sculptural body with a long hood and a short cabin set a blueprint for generations of berlinettas and barchettas.
The design soon gained international recognition when the Cisitalia 202 was included in MoMA’s 1951 exhibition named 8 Automobiles. By that time, though, both Farina and Abarth had set up their blossoming businesses, creating other automotive icons one by one.
Just like Enzo Ferrari cut his teeth in racing before transferring to road cars, the Maserati brothers also employed their experience from motorsports to create fast street going automobiles. The A6 nameplate thus appeared almost simultaneously on some very different cars, all powered by lively straight-six engines.
The alphanumeric designation stood for Alfieri Six-Cylinder, while the numbers signified engine displacement of either 1.5 or 2 liters. Humble by today’s standards, the engines were sufficient for late 1940s Italy, and the race cars’ success was followed by a roadworthy A6 1500.
Maserati brothers commenced the A6 series’ development before the war, finishing it in 1947. Since Pinin Farina drew this car as well, the A6 1500 was a streamlined coupé with a long hood, much like the previous car on the list. In its three-year production span, Maserati built 61 of these cars, upgrading to the A6G 2000, A6GCS/53, Maserati A6G/54, and the A6GCM single seater. The momentum Maserati gained with the A6 series gave birth to the 3500 GT—a car which put Maserati on par with the industry’s greatest names (and where it remains to this day despite all its ups and downs).
Post-WW2 Italy has had it quite rough, balancing out between raw material shortages and a need for an economic rebuild. This situation gave birth to the Fiat 500, a new Italian people’s car introduced in 1957. With a rear-mounted 2-cylinder engine, it was hardly anything but a family car—but its charming design and affordable price tag made it the nation’s favorite.
Miniature in dimensions and with a canvas roof saving up on steel, the 500 was an ideal car to buzz around narrow Italian city streets. As it quickly turned out, many thought the 500 could do it faster, and one speed specialist went to the greatest lengths to prove it.
By the time Fiat introduced the 500, Carlo Abarth had already established a business connection with Fiat, which made the process easier. In Abarth’s workshop, the 500 first got its power upped from 13 to 21 horsepower, but the first substantial change came in 1963 when the engine’s displacement was increased to 593 cubic centimeters.
The Fiat Abarth 595 was the foundation for all further enhancement, as well as other Abarth projects within Fiat, until he eventually sold his company in 1971. Finally, when the 500 Nuova was reborn in modern guise, the 595 made a roaring comeback, proving just how big of an impact this tiny sports car had on the Italian automotive scene.
On the completely opposite side of the spectrum is the most advanced Italian sports car of the 1960s, crème de la crème of the renowned 250 Series and the most valuable classic car in the world: the Ferrari 250 GTO—Gran Turismo Omologato.
The 250 GTO was built from 1962 to 1964 to meet homologation requirements of FIA’s Group 3 (the uppermost GT class), and as such, it gathered Italy’s greatest engineers: Giotto Bizzarrini, Sergio Scaglietti and Mauro Forghieri. In a heated development process, the 250 GTO was born and produced in 36 examples.
As its name suggested, this car was intended to be used in racing, both by Scuderia Ferrari and privateers personally approved by Enzo Ferrari. After an illustrious racing career, the Ferrari 250 GTO became hot in collector circles for its rarity, beauty and motorsport provenance in the golden era of GT racing. And the rest is history.
Ferrucio Lamborghini’s first car was stunning without any doubt but was hardly revolutionary, as it was a direct answer to Ferrari’s V12 grand tourers. The Miura, on the other hand, was exactly what a tractor manufacturer from Sant’Agata Bolognese needed to prove itself to the world—and, more importantly, disrupt Enzo Ferrari himself.
What made the Miura so unforgivingly revolutionary wasn’t its gorgeous body (it famously didn’t need one to infuriate Enzo at the 1965 Turin Motor Show). Instead, it was Giampaolo Dallara and Paolo Stanzani’s novel semi-monocoque naked chassis with a transversely mid-mounted V12. This moment marked the birth of the modern supercar, transforming the world of sports cars forever.
In its long and illustrious history, Alfa Romeo had dozens of truly iconic sports cars and even though each of them left a big mark on the nation’s automotive history, one car in particular rules above them all.
It was the mythical Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale, a street worthy Alfa Romeo 33/2 prototype given a new body by master designer Franco Scaglione. Low, voluptuous and with butterfly doors, the 33 Stradale blurred the lines between road and race cars. Only 18 chassis were ever created, five of which became the most influential concept cars of the 1960s and the 1970s.
Today, the original 33 Stradale is considered to be the most beautiful sports car ever created. Seeing it in person is the automotive equivalent of experiencing a great work of Renaissance art.
#8: Fiat 124 Spider
Back in the days, Fiat had a history of producing a whole range of different cars under one platform, and such was the case with the 124 as well. Originally a family sedan or a wagon, the Fiat 124 was more famously a coupé and a convertible.
The more famous of the two, the 124 Spider mated somewhat simple mechanics with an alluring body from Pininfarina’s Tom Tjaarda, becoming an instant hit not only in Europe but across the pond, too.
In its native continent, it was an affordable piece of la dolce vita with a rallying pedigree—and in America, it became one of the most successful Italian imports. Launched amidst the ongoing safety crisis, when most manufacturers abandoned developing new convertibles, the 124 Spider continued on selling in the United States all the way to 1985.
Fun fact: the 124 Spider demonstrated one of the most Italian engineering efforts of all time. To meet minimum headlamp height requirements in the States, engineers at Fiat simply made the 124 Spider’s suspension higher instead of redesigning the front end—because nobody messes with Italian design.
Even though this car proudly wore an Argentinean flag on its logo and was famously powered by a palette of Ford V8 engines, the De Tomaso Pantera was still engineered and made in Italy—effectively making it an Italian car.
Alejandro De Tomaso based his automotive operations in Northern Italy, home of every sports car maker that mattered, and his main goal was to produce a competitive modern sports car to rival the industry’s greats. The first car to come close was the Mangusta, but the Argentinean industrialist hit a homerun with its successor, the Pantera.
What made the Pantera so great, though, was not just the fact that it offered a taste of Italian exotica for a fraction of the price, but that it also outsold all its competition by a landslide. Today, Ferraris and Lamborghinis are selling in the tens of thousands, but with over 7,000 cars produced from 1971 to 1992, the Pantera was a pioneering mass-produced Italian mid-engined sports car.
The secret of the De Tomaso Pantera’s success was in Ford’s extensive dealership support in the United States, the most lucrative overseas market for high performance automobiles. Performance-thirsty Americans were offered a car that looked and performed like a thoroughbred exotic with the running costs of a Ford. In the longer run, De Tomaso couldn’t keep up with the rest of the industry, leaving the Pantera as the company’s greatest success and a milestone car for independent Italian carmakers.
Just like the Miura sent shockwaves through the industry in 1965, the Lamborghini Countach did pretty much the same in 1971 as a concept and in 1974 as a production car. Minimalist, razor sharp and hostile, the new Lamborghini flagship was another masterpiece by Marcello Gandini.
The V12 was mid-mounted again, but this time longitudinally with the gearbox up in front. The notoriously cramped interior was just a part of the drama, because upward-opening scissor doors completely stole the show as the car’s standout feature.
The Countach was not only one of the wildest production cars ever to come from Italy, but its numerous updates have rendered it even more extreme than Gandini originally envisioned. With its gratuitous use of aerodynamic addons, the 5000QV and 25th Anniversary variants epitomized all the 1980s excess, becoming the decade’s greatest pop culture icons.
Beyond just its cultural significance, the Countach is immensely important as it was pivotal for Lamborghini. Its basic layout is still an essential piece of Lamborghini’s identity, both mechanically and style-wise, which is what makes the Countach the milestone car for Sant’Agata Bolognese.
Lancia’s ascension towards rallying stardom began in the mid-1960s, when Fiat took over and Cesare Fiorio formed HF Squadra Corse. The nimble front-wheel drive Fulvia took on the national and European rallying scene, but to remain at the top of highest rallying echelons after the 1972 world title, Lancia needed more. There came the Stratos, the first car purpose-built for rallying.
From its short wheelbase to the panoramic windshield, each part of the Stratos put function over form, but its body was all but forgettable. Gandini’s genius shined once again, creating a wedge-shaped weapon of a car with a staggered stance and alien-like aura.
For the performance to match the looks, the Stratos was Ferrari-powered, sporting a 2.4-liter V6 from the Dino 246. Once homologated, the Stratos demonstrated its dominance, winning three consecutive world titles from 1974 to 1976 and scoring victories as late as 1981. The Stratos revolutionized rallying by making it more radical and experimental, changing the sport forever and pushing the boundaries of sports car design to a whole new level.
Enzo Ferrari was famously opposed to the idea of mid-engined cars, but the BB series broke the ice and Maranello entered a new era. The 308 became the company’s staple sports car and the 288 GTO supercar revived the iconic nameplate as a homologation special built to compete in Group B. Its successor was released in 1987 to celebrate 40 years of Enzo and his company creating the world’s most exclusive sports cars—and as expected, it ended up being the world’s greatest sports car.
Built around the 288 GTO, the Ferrari F40 had every bit turned up to eleven. The body was a cleaned up 288 GTO Evoluzione, the 2.9-liter twin-turbo V8 pushed nearly 480 horsepower, and the stripped-down interior perfectly underlined Ferrari’s racing prowess.
To kids who dreamed of it, this iconic piece of machinery was a childhood poster car, and those lucky enough to drive it found it to be the most thrilling driving experience money could buy. Moreover, the F40 was an enormous success by hypercar standards, making full use of the 1980s economic boom by selling over 1300 copies instead of an initially-planned 400-car run.
On a sad note, this was also the last car personally approved by Il Commendatore, who passed in 1988. Three and a half decades after its premiere, the F40 is still the epitome of an Italian supercar, and it’s easily one of the most remarkable cars mankind has ever built.
Born out of the monstrous Delta S4, the Delta Integrale was a simplified, more serene take on the iconic homologation special. In the aftermath of Group B’s demise, this all-wheel drive five-door hatchback continued where the S4 was forced to stop, winning six consecutive World Rally Championships from 1987 to 1992 under Group A regulations and Martini Racing colors.
Parallel to its victories, the roadgoing Delta Integrale was evolving too—getting wider fenders, more power, and various revisions that made it more assertive when pushed to its limits.
As it turned out, the Delta Integrale was the last ray of sunshine in Lancia’s motorsport mythos. After the Integrale, it all gradually went downhill for Lancia, and now it barely exists, awaiting its big comeback or total demise. Thanks to the Delta Integrale and all its accomplishments though, Lancia will forever be remembered as one of Italian industry’s greatest—no matter what the future brings.
Another car with South American roots and a non-Italian powertrain, Pagani Zonda is Italian by its birthplace and spirit (and an all-time great for disrupting the status quo in the Italian exotic industry). Under Juan Manuel Fangio’s guidance, Horacio Pagani left his native Argentina to pursue a career in Northern Italy. Eventually, he settled with Lamborghini, where he pioneered the use of carbon composites by building the lightweight Lamborghini Countach Evoluzione concept.
Following the dream of building his own hypercar, Pagani founded Modena Design and began working on his vision of automotive perfection. That car was the Zonda, a car built with maximum passion and minimal compromises, encapsulating Horacio Pagani’s quest for automotive perfection on both an artistic and technical level.
When stationary, the Zonda is equal parts simple and dramatic, but once the Mercedes-Benz V12 was fired up, all its vigor could come to life. Originally unveiled in 1999, the Zonda C12 was a big step for Horacio Pagani, and the fact that he’s preparing his third generation hypercar is a living testament to the first one’s greatness.
The early 2000s was an era of massive changes in the industry, when high-tech materials, electronics, and computers started taking over. It was also the era of hypercars that exploited this influx of new technologies to achieve new levels of performance.
After the F50’s unfairly lukewarm reception, Ferrari aimed for redemption with the Enzo. A car bearing the founder’s name had to be great—and it most definitely was, setting a generation-defining performance benchmark and spicing it up with Ken Okuyama’s offbeat-yet-awesome design.
What also makes the Ferrari Enzo so great and irreplaceable on the list is its influence on Maranello’s future. First of all, the hypercar’s architecture gave us the brilliant Maserati MC12, and the F140 V12 was not a one-car affair either. From the Enzo onwards, all V12 Ferraris carried the same engine, from the 599 GTB Fiorano and its front-engined successors and offsprings all the way to the next-gen LaFerrari hypercar and ultra exclusive cars from the Icona programme. All of which is to say, the Enzo had an immeasurable impact on Ferrari in what’s possibly the final era of V12 engines.
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