A Cathay Diamond member's guide to Italy

When he’s not running his restaurant in Hong Kong or exploring underwater shipwrecks in the Philippines, Cathay Diamond member Eric Chau can often be found pursuing his other great passion: racing superbikes on legendary Italian tracks. Here, Chau shares the wisdom he’s gained through his travels to Italy, guiding you through the country’s well-trodden paths and its hidden gems.

“My love for Italy began eight years ago, teaching scuba diving in the coastal town of Jesolo , near Venice. It was my second trip to the country, and for six months, I was entirely immersed in the dolce vita – the amazing coastline, the happy people, the incredible food,” Chau explains. “My connection to Italy really comes down to the food and the people. I'm a big foodie, and among all European cuisines, Italian food is my favourite.” 

Now, as a Ducati motorcycle racer, Chau returns to Italy frequently, most recently spending a month in the country to train for and compete in the Ducati V4 Elite Cup in Misano. Making the most of the trip, Chau flew directly with Cathay Pacific from Hong Kong to Milan, where he rented a car and drove down to the event. Afterwards, he drove to Rome, before flying back to Hong Kong.

The must-dos

While Chau loves the historic grandeur of Rome and the shopping scene in Milan, his top recommendation for an authentic activity in Italy is a cooking class: “You get to learn how to make different types of pasta and Italian desserts like tiramisu, and obviously you can eat everything afterwards.” He recalls a particularly enjoyable class with his girlfriend in a residential area of Milan, far from the crowds.

Still, Chau maintains that Rome is unmissable for first-time visitors to Italy. “I’m a history guy,” he says. “In Rome, you find surprises everywhere: the Colosseum, the medieval churches, the Vatican – there’s centuries of history etched into the stone on every corner.”

As an avid biker, Chau’s favourite way to see Italy is on two wheels. “If you have a bike license, rent a bike, not a car,” he urges. His advice for finding the best routes is simple: avoid the major roads. “If you choose smaller roads that pass through the mountains or the middle part of Italy... those roads are amazing. You’ll get stunning views no matter which route you take.”

For relaxation, he enjoys the simple pleasure of “having a glass of spritz on the beach”. It’s the perfect way to slow down and absorb the laid-back Italian atmosphere.

The must-eats 

For an evening that feels both classic and contemporary, Chau recommends Il Marchese . This stylish osteria and cocktail bar in Rome’s city centre is known for its creative twist on Roman recipes and its impressive selection of liquors. “It’s the perfect spot for a memorable date night or special celebration,” Chau says. “The ambiance is buzzing, the cocktails are delicious, and the food has a refined touch you can’t find anywhere else.”

A legendary institution in the heart of Rome, Pierluigi is Chau’s undisputed choice for a quintessential Roman seafood experience. Founded in 1938, its timeless, bustling atmosphere and impeccable service have made it a haunt for celebrities and locals alike. According to Chau, “you can get the freshest fish, classic pasta dishes, and don’t get me started on the cocktails. Securing a table here is a rite of passage for anyone visiting Rome.”

The must-stays

As a loyal Marriott Bonvoy member, Chau typically stays with the brand and makes the most of Cathay and Marriott Bonvoy’s 2-ways conversion programme. During his recent visits to Milan and Rome, he favoured the classic Marriott hotels, including Milan Marriott Hotel and Rome Marriott Park Hotel – one of Cathay’s many hotel partners – for their reliable quality and service. Chau explains “I love the Marriott hotels because they’ll sometimes upgrade me if they have a suite available. The staff is always great and the quality is always steadily consistent.”

Why he flies with Cathay Pacific

Chau became a Cathay member in 2022, seeking a higher standard of service post-pandemic. “I don't mind paying a little bit more than the cheapest airline you can find,” he says. For him, the feeling of flying with Cathay Pacific is synonymous with coming home. “From the first step I take onto a Cathay Pacific flight to go back to Hong Kong, I feel like I'm home already. The food menu has local choices, and when the crew greets me – whether it’s in Cantonese or English, I feel taken care of.” 

The next chapter

With Ducati celebrating its 100th anniversary next year, Chau is already planning his next Italian adventure with Cathay Pacific, intending to spend a full month immersed once more in the country he adores. For this discerning traveller, Italy is a destination that never fails to inspire and excite. 

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