After living in San Francisco for about three years, then moving all around Western Europe for the last two – in the regions of Tuscany, Normany, and Catalunya – I come to Fifthroom Living as an informant of all things design. Since it’s a prolific subject that has sparked my interest in many ways, beware of integrated cycling stories, cultural reflections, and planes-trains-and-automobile nightmares that may or may not remind you of past travel experiences. My name is Sonja Hall, and I am overjoyed to contribute to the Fifthroom Living team as your sort of Jack-of-all-Trades writer.

Besides my lengthy introduction, today is dedicated to the small, agricultural city of Lucca, in Tuscany, which will forever have a piece of my heart wherever I roam.

Besides the delectable cuisine, the mellow attitude of the Lucchese people, and the amazing emphasis on cycling, the city of Lucca contains the beautiful Palazzo Pfanner. This architectural and horticultural gem contains statues, fountains, and scene after scene perfect for photographing. Should you find yourself in the beautiful Lucca, the Palazzo Pfanner is a must.  The family-owned property can be toured on foot or admired from the wall behind it.

Lacking the tourism that flourishes in Florence (located thirty minutes east for an Italian driving down the A11 without a speed limit) – many people choose to explore Lucca on a bicycle.

Fast and Furious is a bike shop located a few blocks SW of the city (that does not charge the typical tourist prices like the shops within the wall).  Once on your wheels, round the thick fortress after enjoying a cappuccino and sfoglia, and do a few circles around the wall, or “la mura”. Outdoor balconies and garden spaces never looked so good with the patina of the warm building facades. The solid brick fortress was built in the 16^th or 17^th century to protect the city from attacks which never took place.

Completing the outdoor design package of Lucca, take in the colorful vineyards and leafy farms that coat the rolling hills, offering breathtaking eye candy for the adventure-seeking design aficionado.