Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

If you’ve never been to Italy, this is probably one of the best guidebooks you could pick up. It’s engaging, offers a fresh perspective on where to go and what to do, and gives readers a strong sense of how to make the most of their trip.

What makes this book stand out is that it encourages readers to go beyond the standard tourist attractions and seek out a more meaningful experience, while still providing plenty of helpful advice along the way.

This was a real treat! A brilliant guide to the culture, good and customs of the most glamorous parts of the Mediterranean. Loved every word and will definitely br getting a copy for my bookshelf!

Light, lively, well turned out. Just like a book about Mediterranean and its lifestyle should be. Danielle Pergament wrote very practical guide to and notes about life in the sun. Cosmetics, clothing and coffee styles, rules and guidelines gets mention (and you know already that thou shall not order cappuccino in the afternoon, do you). But you also will be informed about rules of the beach and yes, even (house)rules while visiting a boat. And wait for finding out how important could cutting of grapefruit be. Also this book is very well produced and laid out- nice little gift for your friend interested in all things southerly, beachy and sunny.

Dispatches from the Piazza by Danielle Pergament is a light and breezy read about the stuff that sets life on the Mediterranean apart from life elsewhere. Page after page, the author lays out the essence of the Mediterranean lifestyle and points out what the rest of us are doing wrong. “Less hurry, more tapas. Less guilt, more naps”, she says.

The book is quite comprehensive. There are tips on food, wine, dressing, grooming, travelling, and more. People assemble their outfits with care. The process begins by saving up and then spending that money to buy fewer but classy clothes. Grooming can’t be rushed and needs to be given time and thought. In makeup and grooming, perfection is not the aim, but enhancement of one’s best features is.

In food, carbs are not banned, but overprocessed foods are a no-no. People eat local food, sourced from smaller specialty shops, rather than from larger big-box stores. Food is enjoyed and eaten in small portions. All in all, there is a pattern of choosing quality over quantity and of being mindful and present, which the author conveys very effectively.

The language of the book is zestful, and the illustrations are gorgeous. In addition to being beautiful and enjoyable, the book is also very practical. There are tips on how to drive a car with a manual transmission, how to order wine, how to choose the right vacation spot for your temperament, etc.

For anyone who wants to understand the Mediterranean way of life, or is planning to visit the area, this book is an essential resource.

Such a surprising treat! The art by New Yorker illustrator Mokshini is the real star, but the author's cheeky observations are incredibly fun too. Loved it!

I would like to personally thank Dispatches from the Piazza for entering my life right before my first-ever trip to Italy because now my expectations are completely unrealistic, and I fully intend to become a linen-wearing, espresso-sipping, effortlessly chic version of myself who does not currently exist.

Timing? Impeccable. Damage to my sense of reality? Also impeccable.

This book is basically a love letter to Mediterranean life where carbs are not the enemy, aperitivo is a personality trait, and everyone somehow looks like they casually walked off a yacht even if they’re just going to the grocery store. The essays are witty, a little chaotic, and very “I am observing fabulous people while slightly judging and also wanting to be them.”

And honestly? Same.

But let’s talk about the real star here: the artwork. The illustrations are so fun, colorful, and full of personality that I would’ve happily flipped through this book without reading a single word and still felt like I got my money’s worth. It’s giving chic. It’s giving whimsical. It’s giving “I suddenly need to pack a scarf I don’t know how to wear.”

The little style tutorials sprinkled throughout? Delightful. Will I successfully recreate eyeliner like Penélope Cruz or channel silk scarf elegance like Grace Kelly? Absolutely not. But I will try once, get frustrated, and then pretend I meant to look “effortlessly undone.”

This book leans more into vibes and aesthetics than anything super deep or substantial. It’s not trying to change your life, it’s trying to convince you to book a flight, order a spritz, and romanticize your existence.

If you’re dreaming of a Mediterranean escape (or, like me, about to step into your “I’m definitely going to walk everywhere and not complain” era), this is the perfect pre-trip read.

Short, amusing, easy read💄👜👢🍞🧀🍷

Reading and perusing the pictures this was a nice way to while away an hour or so on a lazy afternoon. The chapters can really be read in any order or skipped if the subject doesn't pique your interest (ski fields was a miss for me). For those who have travelled or lived in Italy or other more southerly countries like Spain, Greece and southern France, you'll be nodding your head. I found the food, fashion (who knew belts were fundamental!) and beauty sections the most interesting, particularly the wine varietals particular to different countries, the emphasis on small, boutique vendors and fresh foods, and the hour by hour description of appropriate coffee drinks throughout the day. It was fun to explore the southern European lifestyle which contrasts so starkly with most of the American mindset. I do think there could have been more attention to the differing regional food and attitudes within countries.

Thanks to publishers Louise Newlands, Harris Grant North America and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.

Review shared on March 30 on Waterstones and Goodreads, and with Barnes & Noble and BAM. To be shared on kobo and Google Play upon publication.

This is a very cute little lifestyle books.

Witty and full of delightful illustrations, the book helps you find your inner Mediterranean woman - either here at home or when on a fabulous vacation.

It covers everything from the types of pasta to how to wear stilettos without killing yourself and getting that perfect smokey eye.

Its aspirational without being judgemental.

Definitely fun and I think I'll start dressing better.