Marina Spironetti, a freelance journalist and photographer based in Milan, shares her personal diary with Euronews, detailing her life during the COVID-19 lockdown. Lombardy, where Milan is located, has been under strict lockdown measures since March 8, 2020, with the rest of Italy following shortly after. Marina describes the sudden shift to a life confined within her flat, the eerie silence of the city, and the changes in her daily routine. She reflects on the impact of the virus on her work, her concerns for her elderly mother, and the ways in which she and her boyfriend maintain social connections despite the isolation. Marina also touches on the broader societal reactions to the pandemic, including the varied responses of her international friends on social media and the shared experiences of those in different countries.

Milan, traditionally seen as a 'grey' city, is undergoing a transformation with new skyscrapers and green initiatives. The Isola district is at the forefront, featuring the Bosco Verticale, two towers covered with plants designed by Stefano Boeri. These buildings aim to create a microclimate, absorb CO2, and support biodiversity. Boeri's firm is now working on similar projects globally. The Biblioteca degli Alberi, a new park concept, is set to become Milan's largest pedestrian area, offering 'vegetal pavilions' for various activities. Chef Cesare Battisti, a proponent of urban farming, hopes this 'ruralisation' will spread. The Brera district's Orto fra I Cortili, a rooftop garden by Cornelius Gavril, showcases a sustainable and educational approach to urban green spaces. Milan's embrace of environmental sustainability is rooted in its agricultural heritage, supported by urban farms around the city.

The Maldives, a constellation of atolls and islands in the Indian Ocean, offer a variety of accommodations from luxurious resorts to local guest houses. Raffles Maldives Meradhoo is highlighted for its exclusivity and privacy, making it ideal for honeymoons or romantic getaways. Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is recommended for family trips, with its spacious beaches and a kids club. For a more authentic experience, guest houses on local islands such as Holhundhoo provide opportunities to interact with the Maldivian culture and people. The article also touches on the environmental efforts of resorts, particularly the Accor chain, and the adaptability required for guests to respect local customs and Muslim religious practices.