Welcome to
The Crowded Planet!

We are Margherita and Nick, a nature
and adventure-loving couple.

marghe nick panorama lake como

About us

We are Margherita and Nick, a writer and photographer from Italy and Australia, long-term travellers and lovers of nature, wildlife and the outdoors.

We created this blog in 2014 to share our passions for nature, adventure, and sustainable travel. To date, our journeys have taken us to over 85 countries – it’s very hard to pick a favourite, but Malaysia, Japan, Iran, South Africa and Mexico will always have a special place in our hearts. 

Over time, our hobbies and travelling style changed. We still love jetting around for months, but we tend to travel for shorter periods of time, and we like to explore Italy, our country, on foot and by bicycle. Our favourite destinations are Trentino, the Italian Lakes, and Emilia-Romagna.

We are also very (un)successful triathletes and marathon runners, and our other passions (in no particular order) include hiking, craft beer, Asian food and our cat Tappo.

Ecotourism

piacenza cycling where to go

Where to Go Cycling near Piacenza

Have you ever considered visiting Piacenza, the northernmost town in Emilia-Romagna? We’ve just spent three days there with our bikes, just to tell you all about the best cycling near … Read more
alaya dala spa ubud

The 18 Best Spas in Bali

Heading to Bali? I’m sure you’ll want to indulge in a spa day or three! Find out where to go with our guide to the 18 best spas in Bali … Read more
italy cycling tourism

5 Reasons to Choose Italy for Your Cycling Holiday

Have you considered heading to Italy for your next cycling holiday? Here are 5 reasons why our beautiful country should be on the radar of all cyclotourists! Between April 5th … Read more

Latest Posts

Italy in December – Where to Go + Weather 2025

Have you ever considered Italy for a winter break? Italy in December is perfect for a ski break or for a visit to Christmas Markets! UPDATED 2025 Most people opt … Read more
uzbekistan travel guide registan

Uzbekistan Travel Guide – 16 Things to Know Before You Travel

Planning to travel to Uzbekistan? Here are 16 things to know before you travel!
madonna di campiglio dolomites girl skiing

Italy in February – Where to Go + Weather 2025

Planning to visit Italy in February? Don’t be afraid of the cold, it’s a great time to visit! Here we’ll tell you all about February weather, where to go, and … Read more

Mondays In Milan

lake como in autumn view

Lake Como in Autumn – 7 Things to Do

Are you planning to visit Lake Como in October or November and wondering whether you’ve made the right choice? The answer is yes! Let us show you 7 amazing things … Read more
leonardo last supper

How to Get Last Supper Tickets in Milan

Are you planning to visit Milan? You’ll no doubt be wondering how to get tickets to the Last Supper, Leonardo da Vinci’s most famous artwork in town. Here we tell … Read more
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13 Best Towns to Visit in Lake Como

Are you planning to head to the Lakes? Then I’m sure you’ll be wondering what are the best towns to visit in Lake Como. Check our guide to the best … Read more