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

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
lake como moody sky

What to Do in Lake Como When it Rains

Are you in Lake Como (or planning to visit) but the weather is not cooperating? We’ve got you! Here’s what to do in Lake Como when it rains – including … Read more

Latest Posts

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
things to do in ferrara

15 Fun Things to do in Ferrara

Have you ever considered visiting Ferrara, a city in the eastern part of Emilia-Romagna, not far from the Po River? After reading these 15 fun things to do in Ferrara, … Read more

Mondays In Milan

varenna-lakeside-view

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

15 Fun Day Trips from Milan 2024

One of the best things about my hometown Milan is that it’s a great base to explore more of Northern Italy and even Switzerland! Find out how on these fun … Read more
lake como 1 day aerial view

The BEST 3 Days in Lake Como Itinerary

Would you like to spend 3 days in Lake Como? It’s the perfect amount of time to enjoy the lake! Keep reading to find out more on what to see … Read more