This is a fantastic initiative from the Opera di Firenze who collaborated with Yelp. The opera…read morehouse has been organizing Twitter parties for the opening might of each opera this season, and this time around us Yelpers took over. The opera was Barbiere di Siviglia, which is perfect for a group of opera newbies and a favourite of opera lovers. Before the show we had the chance to visit the dressing rooms and make up area to speak to the singers and the director. During the performance we were provided with a private balcony to watch the show from where we could freely tweet and take photos during the production. This was a lot of fun, and a unique way to experience the show. During the intermission we were invited into the stage to see the set and talk to one of the orchestra members. It was a unique and special experience for sure. After the show a groups of us went for a pizza nearby with some of the crew to have a beer and a real chat about the performance. It was heaven for an opera lover like me. I am very excited to attend I again, it was a great experience. Thanks to our fantastic CM for organizing this fab collaboration.

#NeverlandOF is about to change your perspective on how to behave in a theater making you feel…read morespecial even if you're not an actor on stage. Premium seats just above the scene, a hidden compartment where your awe for operas and your addiction to social medias become a join venture that some privileged people, together with you, come to share to review and live-stream their experience. A few more details right here: - A pre-tour of the theater when it's still crawling with preparations - An exclusive guided visit backstage to meet the stars - Direct access to wi-fi - Seats near the stage - Pics and mini-videos are a must-do What else do you want? That it'd be free? Done. Come kids, the Opera just got real! Thanks to Yelp for this magic opportunity, as always! The Barber of Seville This piece is the one you want to attend to if you're just getting started with the opera. Brilliant and extremely comical, it was written by Rossini following the vicissitudes of Figaro, an outstanding love matcher that helps the Count of Almaviva with his crush on Rosina, a very independent girl just arrived in town. Of course their relationship is challenged in a lot of circumstances, but in the end love prevails. This particular piece has been revisited in modern age, leaving the actors being the real protagonists while the scenic design takes a little part on the stage. It is very easy to watch and laughs are guaranteed. Actors are joyful and beautifully talented, all young and determined to make their characters main traits come in the foreground for the the public, also thanks to their costumes that reinterpret an almost comic book of themselves. Bravo to everyone!

Piazza Santa Croce is spacious, beautiful, and full of character. The basilica is breathtaking, and…read morethe piazza feels lively without being overwhelming. Perfect for people-watching, a coffee stop, or soaking in Florence's atmosphere--especially lovely in the evening.

Named after the fameous churce at the end of the piazza, the Basilica of Santa Croce, this is a fun…read moreopen air area in Florence. The piazza is all paved, however, there is usually a famers market (mostly prepared goods vs produce), and the people watching can be pretty spectacular. It was a easy 15 second walk from my apartment, and the adjacent Taxi stand made getting to the airport a breeze. There are no services or greenery, but the steps of the church can be used as a nice place to sit. It is dotted by a large number of restaurants, leather shops, and gelato places. Its a cool place to simply stop and take a breather and the church is worth a visit as it houses the remains of many famous Italian's and the interior is quite nice as well