Somewhere off Pisa, there is a little town called Livorno - famous for its ports and said to be the mini Venice, where life is not quite as bustling as its other Italian sisters, but nonetheless delights in its little ways.

And Terraza Mascagni is such a heaven in its own rights. The sheer splendour wowed us and for a moment, we were lost for words. As we parked ourselves at a quiet corner, we began twirling in time and people-watching - Italians just doing their thang, while the only two Asians who seemed like aliens to everyone else were fascinated by the smallest trivia. How lovely it would be if the cold was not so painful, then I could take a stroll along this neighborhood in a flowy maxi dress instead of trying to look skinny and pretty in my bulky winter wear...

Italia, oh Italia. You know I need a trip back, don't you?


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Photography: Brad Lau @ladyironchef