The historic maritime city of Genoa, is located in the centre of Liguria, at the top of Italy’s iconic boot. This “Italian Riviera” region is famous for pesto and was the setting for this hand I played during a recent Pairs tournament.

Sitting North, I opened one club in fourth seat and replied two clubs over my partner's one diamond. After two passes West balanced with a double, and East had an easy two spade bid. When it came back to me, knowing full well that to let the opponents play...