A Tourist's Guide to Florence

Have a Perfect Vacation Today without Breaking the Bank!

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These days with the world still coming out from a global recession, there are quite a number of things one can do to have a great inexpensive vacation. Especially with the hotel and hospitality industry, which were affected by the economic slow down, there are many bargains and deals that are available. Here are some of the things one can do when searching for the perfect vacation without breaking the bank:

- Go online to search for great deals on hotels. The internet is still the initial place to go to when looking for deals for staying in hotels. Sometimes, all you have to do is to email some of the places and see if they offer great rates. Cardiff Bay Hotels may have weekend rates that are great for local residences and offer substantial discounts on weekends for the locals. Cardiff is a bustling trading city especially when it comes to the maritime industry. On weekends, business slows down as businessmen who are there on the weekdays go home to their families. By asking around, you can probably find a couple of posh hotels willing to give great rates on their rooms or services offered.

- Plan ahead. By planning your vacation ahead of time, you can get good prices on airfares, room rates and other items as well. Airplane fares purchased a month in advance can be low as 50% off the regular rate, and booking hotels ahead of time, you can ask for a better rate. Even renting cars ahead of time will get you better packages as well. By booking ahead of time, you assure the host a guaranteed income and they can respond to you by giving ample discounts or upgrading the services that will make your vacation worthwhile.

- Make an itinerary of the trip. By managing your time on your vacation, you will be able to optimize that vacation to your particulars. A vacation may not necessarily be full of activities but being able to plan some does help. Some people though wish to not do anything during their vacation but get ample rest and downtime with their significant other and that is fine. But for those with families, especially young children in tow, then being able to plan things, especially going to theme and amusement parks need to be planned well. Such planning includes giving directions on where to meet or what to do when they get lost of separated. It may happen so preparing for it is good.
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• Global hotel rates sink to seven-year low (financialpost.com)

How to Get an International Driving Permit

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If you plan on tooling around a foreign country in a rental car, chances are you might find yourself needing an International Drivers Permit. This is a special document that works in conjunction with your standard license to give you rights to operate a vehicle in a country other than America.

Before you take off for your destination country, it is a very good idea to make sure you know the requirements for driving. If you need a permit, you will want to get one in advance of your trip. Obtaining an international driving permit involves a multistep process. Fortunately, it is not very difficult to follow.

The steps you will need to follow to get a permit include:

Making sure your license does not need to be renewed - In order to obtain an International Drivers Permit, you will have to have a valid license in your home state. If your expiration date is approaching, go ahead and get your license renewed. If your license expires while you are abroad, your permit will no longer be valid.

Get passport photos - When you fill out the application for your permit, you will find it calls for two passport photos. To get these, just make an appointment with a local photography studio or check with stores that develop film. Some drugstores, for example, will take and develop passport photos on site.

Fill out the proper paperwork - The driving permit will call for an application process. You can obtain applications through the American Automobile Association or the American Automobile Touring Alliance. Both organizations offer permit applications online via their web sites. There is a fee attached to the permitting process, but this can change from time to time. To find out how much, just contact one of the two organizations directly.

Send in the application - Be sure to fill out and send in the application well in advance of your trip. Processing can take some time, so the earlier the better.

Once you have your permit in place, there is still more to consider before driving in a foreign country. To make sure you do not run into problems down the road, be sure to:

Check into insurance requirements - Depending on the country you intend to visit, you may be required to purchase additional automobile insurance. Find out before you go so you know what to expect and what to budget for.

Brush up on the rules of the road - Foreign countries can have very different laws for motorists. Be sure you understand the rules for where you are going. It is also a very good idea to study up on road signs and their meanings.

When your standard license is paired with an international drivers permit, you will find that the world can literally become your oyster. This combination gives you legal privileges to operate a vehicle in some 150 countries outside America. To truly enjoy the freedom this can provide, be sure to follow the local laws and study up on the rules before you go.

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The Top 5 Attractions in Lazio

Tips for Exploring Italian Cities Like Venice and Rome

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When making plans to travel to another country it is always a good idea to do some research on your destination. Attempts to understand and respect other cultures and their traditions will always be appreciated and make your holiday more enjoyable.

There are many things to consider when you go to Italy. Besides the eating and drinking habits of the Italians, you should also look into dress codes. I am not talking about having to wear designer clothing but more what kind of clothing. If you like to visit churches then you should know that in most churches dress codes and rules are mandatory. If you have bare shoulders or knees, some churches will not let you enter, especially in Rome at St. Peter's and the Vatican Museums and at the Basilica di San Marco in Venice. If it is to hot outside then just bring something to cover up with you.

Italy is a magnificent country to visit, offering distinct scenery, extraordinary ruins, museums, churches, food and wine. Most people have heard of Rome, Venice, Pisa, Florence and Milan, along with these beautiful cities are the lesser well-known destinations of the Lake District in the North of Italy, Tuscany & Umbria, the Amalfi Coast or the stunning islands of Capri and Sicily.

If you are leaving some of your family members behind and you would like to call them once in a while just to let them know what a good time you’re having, it might be a good idea to or buy a telephone card and use public phones. If you are bringing your mobile with you, you can also buy an Italian pre-paid card + top-up and call your family via the Italian Mobile network. Italy’s country code is 39. Some of you might even bring the laptop along. Skype is one of the easiest ways to call people from all over the world for very little amount and if you call someone on their laptop it is for free.

As with any city, be wary of bag snatchers and pickpockets. Put your money safely in a money belt or a purse on a string around your neck and conceal them under your clothes. There are many ‘gypsy’ children in Rome who are accomplished at picking pockets so be careful.

The weather in Italy in the summer months can be very hot so choose light clothing to take with you. Do not forget your sunglasses, hat and sun cream as it is easy to get sunburn if you are walking around all day sightseeing. Short thunderstorms in the afternoon are frequent in Rome and inland cities, so it might be wise to have an umbrella with you.

Many types of accommodation in Rome are available, from hotels and hostels to bed and breakfasts, apartments and guesthouses. Italy also has a type of accommodation known as Agriturismo, the word is a combination of the words agriculture and tourism in Italian and are farmhouse resorts and particularly suited for families. Meals supplied will usually be prepared from freshly grown produce from the farm. Some farmhouses let you get involved in the working activities such as taking care of the livestock and crops. Regardless of the rustic surroundings, the accommodation is not always basic, many Agriturismo offer a high standard of lodging, and some even have swimming pools.

Whether you are intending to visit a popular Italian city such as Rome, Venice, Milan or Venice or heading to the country, like Tuscany, for a quieter break you will meet the friendly people of Italy and a belissima experience.

Hotels are the most popular type of accommodation in the cities of Italy, like Venice, their ranking is from one to five stars but is slightly different from other countries. Mostly, the accommodation in Venice like a one-star hotel is very basic with a bed in a private room but you will have to share a bathroom and breakfast will not be included. Two-star hotels generally give the option of a private or shared bathroom, will provide a TV and breakfast, but do not expect anything overgenerous. Facilities and services depend entirely on the hotel. Three-star hotels should provide satellite TV, a telephone and a bathroom with bidet. Again, it depends on the hotel; some might have minimal facilities, whilst others will have large airy rooms, tasteful furnishings and a full breakfast. Rooms in four-star hotels should be quite large and include facilities such as a telephone, satellite TV and bathroom. Expect plenty of choice at breakfast and on site facilities such as a bar and free ADSL.
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Art in Italy

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Italy is internationally recognized for its vast culture, art development and language production. Travel to Europe
and study Italian in Italy is a great option to discover the country where the two thirds of the world’s historical heritage lies. All types of architectural styles of the west globe can be found in Italy. Discover amazing cities as the region of the Tuscany that counts with more artistic expressions than the whole of Spain. The UNESCO has declared as World Heritage Sites more than 40 regions of Italy. Discover this astonishing past while you study Italian in Italy.

The Historic Center of Florence is a huge conglomerate of constructions and expressions from the Renaissance times and the Etruscan settlements in Italy. As you study Italian in Italy enjoy in Florence impressive buildings as the Church of Santa Croce and the Uffizi and Pitti Palace. Don’t miss the incredible works of Michelangelo, Botticelli and Giotto.

You should visit Rome and discover the capital of the ancient Roman Empire and the Roman Republic. In Rome you will enjoy religious constructions as the papal buildings and monuments
to old rulers like the Column of Marcus Aurelius. Study Italian in Italy as you go around the extensive mausoleums of Augusts and Hadrian, the Pantheon and Trajan’s Column.

In Lombardy you must get immersed in the mystery of the Dominican Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Study Italian in Italy and find in this chapel a marvellous architectural complexity and the masterpiece “The Last Supper” by Leonardo Da Vinci.

The city of Venice is an artistic expression in itself. While you study Italian in Italy you will encounter the major maritime power Italy ever had. Venice constructions and its intelligent display framed by water, are the most beautiful postcard Italy will confer you. Also enjoy the works of master Titian and Veronese.

A special place to visit in the region of Padua as you study Italian in Italy is the Botanical Garden created in 1945. This is the first botanical garden created in the world and it still keeps its premier layout. It also maintains its original purpose of being a scientific research center.

If you are interested in the archaeological past of the country, you must visit the province of Udine while you study Italian in Italy. In Udine you will find the greatest archaeological reserve of the kind; go around the remains of the wealthy city of Aquileia that was destroyed by Attila in the 5th C. Here you will also find the famous Patriarchal Basilica in your journey through history while you study Italian in Italy.

Italy is full of Catholic and Christian religious heritage. If you want to enjoy the biggest expression of faith in the country you should visit the Sacri Monti as you study Italian in Italy. This place portrays a group of chapels of architectural design from the 16th C, with valued paintings and statues. The chapels are perfectly integrated to the natural hilly landscape with blue lakes and pine trees. Study Italian in Italy and enjoy a country rich in culture, arts and faith.

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7 Tips to Fit in Like a Native When You Travel to Italy

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Are you visiting Italy soon and wondering how you are going to survive without speaking Italian?

Well, you are really lucky as the Italians are a nation of communicators, even if you can't speak their language.

For a start, you'll notice everyone greets you either with a 'Buon Giorno' in the morning, or 'Buona Sera' in the late afternoon/evening. So these are two short phrases you want to learn straightaway.

Whether you are visiting relatives, on a business trip
or just going on vacation, it will be wise to know a few rules of the land before you go:

1. In Italy the pedestrian crossings tend to be there to add a splash of color to the road, Italians rarely use them, preferring instead to take their chances wherever it's convenient for them to cross.

2. Cars, scooters and motorbikes tend not to stop or even slow down at a pedestrian crossing, unless there is a set of traffic lights.

3. Don't expect to eat a full meal if it is outside the regular eating hours of most Italians, which is between 12.00 noon and 3.00pm and 7.00pm - 11.00pm. If you want to eat
between those times, visit the variety of cafe bars in every Italian town or city for a snack.

4. If you just want a quick coffee or espresso, you will need to queue at the cash desk or the 'cassa' to pay for your drink beforehand, then give your receipt to the bar person, or 'barrista' and tell him your order.

5. Most cafe bars have waiter service only at the tables, both inside and outside, so don't attempt to serve yourself and sit down at a table, as the waiter will not be pleased.

6. Italians love their style and are keen to present a good image or bella figura, so avoid wearing shorts and a t-shirt for dinner in a restaurant, as this attire is considered too casual.

7. Finally... enjoy, enjoy, enjoy all that Italy has to offer and as the Italians say 'Buon divertimento!'

Tips On The Best Honeymoon Destinations for Your Special Trip

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Weddings and honeymoons are the two kinds of celebrations that people look forward to, plan for and anticipate the most. You can further say from these experiences that ones memories will last the longest for years to come. All the more reason to pick one of the best honeymoon destinations for your special trip.

With as many kinds of people, so is the possibilities for choosing your honeymoon. Clearly as no two couples are alike or comparable. You can also that no two honeymoons need be the same either. Prepare for your honeymoon before the wedding extravaganza begins to take up all your time and effort. Initiating a decision on the best honeymoon destinations should not be taken flippantly. After all, this is something you will have lifelong memories of so put some extra thought and attention into planning the honeymoon.

If you choose an all inclusive honeymoon or decide to opt for a la carte, once you have landed at your destination, planning in advance will take away a lot of the stresses and headaches that you would be glad to avoid during this once in a lifetime trip. Think about where you would like to go and what you would like to do on your visit. A honeymoon is a very enchanting time, intended to bring the two people closer in unison than any other romance relationship. Yet romance is not all you are going to do all the time. Activities that both can enjoy mutually can create a whole new dimension to the marriage. Think of what your expectations will be in terms of location and activities, as well as the anticipations of your wife or husband when choosing your list of the best honeymoon destinations.

If you take pleasure in the sun, surf and sand and water sports pick out all inclusive honeymoons that are at a beach resort then feature such things to do in the package. However if you are the type that enjoys a more peaceful location that caters to full relaxation you can choose more remote destinations which avoid over commercialization. For you nature lovers pick your destination that offers great hiking, biking or nature activities. People who are interested in culture and in discovering various local customs and traditions should pick places like South American locations like Rio during the Carnival or any of the Asian destinations.

There is an almost endless choice to pick from when looking for the best honeymoon destinations from around the world today. Whether it is a luxury honeymoon destination where you can truly indulge yourself and be pampered or a rough and tough adventure honeymoon, be sure to address what you like to do by doing your research and plan your activities so that you will make your honeymoon full of golden memories.


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Steve has enjoyed freelance writing for the last 3 years on various topics. He also has a passion for publishing websites. Visit his website at http://www.luxurycomfortersets.org/ that helps people find the best daybed comforter sets when they want redesign their bedroom.

Travel Photography Tips - 7 Tips for Taking Vacation Pictures

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Taking beautiful travel and vacation pictures is easy if you know some basic photo skills. In this article, you will learn 7 travel photography tips that will help you take some incredible travel pictures.

Add Drama to Your Pictures

You can add interest and visual appeal to your pictures by adding some drama to your pictures. If you want to add drama to your pictures one way is to show scale. One way to show scale in your pictures is by having a person stand next to something extra large (like the World's largest Redwood) so you can see the full impact of the size difference.

Get Rid of the Clutter

When you're seeing exciting new things, it's easy to ignore the background. But before you hit the shutter release button, look at what you're really photographing. Simply by changing positions slightly or changing your angle, you may be able to eliminate background clutter like billboards or power lines.

Take Pictures of the Locals

No matter where you are traveling in the world, learn how to say some basic things like "May I please take your picture?" in the local language. Offer to send those you photograph a copy so make sure to have a small notebook or pencil to jot down names, addresses or emails.

Unique and Candid Photos

Candid shots when traveling are the best, but occasional portraits of the family in front of spectacular views and famous landmarks are part of almost every vacation album. Don't forget to get in the vacation pictures too by using the self timer or remote shutter.

Always take pictures of things that interest you instead of taking pictures of things "you have to take" like those shown on postcards in the gift store. You can always pick up some postcards to add to your vacation souvenirs. Unusual subjects always make great travel photos so always keep an eye out for these unique photo opportunities.

Every Picture Tells a Story

You may also want to tell the story of your trip so make sure to take pictures from the moment you departed to the time you returned home. Include highlights like your campground neighbors,an unusual meal you had, activities, the look on a family member's face when he or she saw something for the first time. Once you get home and upload the photos, choose the best ones so you can create an album or put them in a collage frame on your wall.

Recruit Additional Picture Taking Help

If traveling with kids, hand each child a camera (disposables are great for the younger ones) and encourage them to take pictures for their own vacation album.

Then when you return home you can create a fun photo album to remember your vacation. While on your vacation, make sure to make notes so you can later add captions to your photos.

Camera Care and Maintenance

If you have any plans for being around water, make sure to bring a one time use or waterproof camera.Beware of salt water and sand as they can ruin your camera if you're not careful.

Not even the most experienced photographers keep every picture, so bring extra memory cards or bring a way to upload your photos regularly so you'll never run out of room while traveling. Always recharge or replace your batteries and memory card daily so you can be ready for whatever picture opportunity comes your way. By doing this, you'll be ready to go in the morning!

As you can see, taking good pictures on your vacation can be easy and fun. By the time you get home, you'll have lots of great pictures to share with your friends and family.


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Autumn Lockwood is a writer for http://www.yourpictureframes.com . If you're looking for stylish or classic square picture frames visit our website now: http://www.yourpictureframes.com/categories/Square-Picture-Frames/

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Wine Aerators: Do They Work?

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Whenever a new product hits the market, there is always a question of whether they will perform as promised. Wine aerators are fairly new and if you're a connoisseur, you may wonder if they are worth the money. They most definitely are! You'll never need to decant another bottle for hours hoping to bring out the best character, bouquet, and taste. You won't have to ask, "Wine aerators: do they work?" after just the first use.

This is how they work: When you pour your favorite red or white through one of these wine accessories, air weaves through the liquid. Why is this important? Because oxygen helps release the best qualities. For older bottles, the subtle tones that are often hidden are releases. The new bottles are often acrid and this will help with a smoother finish and mouth feel.

As the wine passes through the rest of the aerator and flows out the bottom into the glass or decanter, aeration is completed. However, it's important to get the type that sits directly on top of the glass. This is because it creates one complete breathing system. As the liquid flows out the bottom of the aerator, it cascades down the sides of the glass. With the styles that are held above the glass, you'll find they are clumsy and cumbersome. The liquid simply splashes into the glass or decanter, which does not complete the aeration process. When looking for the best performing product, one that sits on top of the glass is a must.

Additionally, you'll want one that comes with a stand to put it in when you have used it. Otherwise, it's likely to drip onto your finest tablecloth. Surely you remember how difficult it can be to get a red stain out!

Some are available in a variety of colors, such as red, green, blue, and purple.. Not only are some so beautifully designed that they will become quite the conversation pieces, it's easy to coordinate with your existing table settings color scheme.

Finally, make sure you use the right wineglasses, too. Robert J Parker, the famous critic credited with the 100 point rating system, only suggest Reidel, which is one of the world's finest. The glass is important, especially when aerating, as the curve or the "sweet spot" of the glass will play an integral part in the aeration process. Isn't it time that your truly enjoyed your next glass of vino?
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A Wine Lover's Weekly Guide To $10 Wines - An Australian Sauvignon Blanc

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A Wine Lover's Weekly Guide To $10 Wines - An Australian Sauvignon Blanc

By: Levi Reiss

This is our second Australian wine review, and our first Sauvignon Blanc. Australia is a major wine producer partly because Australians drink well over twice as much wine per capita as do the Americans. The wine reviewed below comes from Victoria, Australia's smallest mainland state, which is second in the country's wine production.

Deakin Estate has been growing grapes since the late 1960s but started producing wine only in 1980. The company is named for Australia's second Prime Minister, Alfred Deakin. A University, a suburb of Australia's capital, and an earthquake fault also carry this guy's name. Let's see if this wine also has a fault.

OUR WINE REVIEW POLICY All wines that we taste and review are purchased at the full retail price.

Wine Reviewed Deakin Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2008 12.5 % alcohol about $10

Let's start with the marketing materials. Tasting Note: Pale straw yellow; grassy, citrus, grapefruit and gooseberry nose; dry, light bodied, zesty on the palate with grapefruit nuances; clean finish. Serving Suggestion: Oysters; chevre; herbed chicken; salads; vegetable soup. And now for my review.

I started by sipping this wine alone. I remarked its lovely acidity and more than moderate length. The first meal started with sweet and sour barbecued turkey wings, and then an overcooked, dry barbecued chicken breast, accompanied by potatoes roasted in chicken fat, and a lime and garlic spicy tomato salsa served as a vegetable. With the turkey wings the gooseberry came forward with more than a touch of sweetness. In conjunction with the chicken the Sauvignon Blanc had a very pleasant lime taste but it was light. As one might expect, it was quite palate cleansing when dealing with the greasy potatoes. When paired with the salsa, the wine took on a bit of an ethereal quality and wasn't at all overwhelmed by the medium level of spiciness.

The second meal was a Middle-Eastern specialty ground beef in crushed bulgur jackets cooked in a somewhat acidic sauce containing Swiss chard. This dish is known as Kube or Kibbe. The Sauvignon Blanc was finely acidic with a note of sugar and some citrus. Later I enjoyed some high-quality French style lemon pie with a very buttery crust. The wine picked up acidity but unfortunately didn't display any citrus.

The final meal consisted of a simple omelet. The wine displayed refreshing acidity and tasted of grapefruit that could have been somewhat riper. Don't get me wrong; it wasn't harsh. It picked up strength and a note of sweetness with canned palm hearts and even more so with guacamole. The wine became rather unctuous presenting a note of lime. I finished the meal with cookies covered in dark chocolate (not the real stuff, but a good imitation) and the wine weakened.

As usual I finished the tasting with two cheeses. When paired with a Provolone this wine displayed good acidity and just a bit of lime. It was refreshing. Marbled Cheddar increased the Sauvignon Blanc's acidity and I tasted grapefruit. I was sorry not to have any goat cheese (chevre) the classic pairing for Sauvignon Blanc. I cannot remember when I was sorry not to have a cheese pairing.

Final verdict. I would definitely buy this wine again. It is a bargain. I recently reviewed a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc at twice the price that wasn't nearly as good. I intend to review here other wines from this producer.

Author Resource:->













Levi Reiss authored or co-authored ten books on computers and the Internet, but really prefers drink fine German, Italian, or other wine. He teaches various computer classes at an Ontario French-language community college. His global wine website www.theworldwidewine.com features a weekly review of $10 wines and new sections writing about and tasting organic and kosher wines. Visit his wine, nutrition, and health website www.wineinyourdiet.com .

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Visiting Italy - Pompeii Vs Herculaneum

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All the world knows about the excavation's site of Pompeii, a Roman town, buried under the volcanic ash in 79 AD. Millions of tourists visit this site every year. It's one of the most visited touristic attractions of Italy. Not so many persons know about an other excavation's site, a Roman town Herculaneum, distant only 17 km from Pompeii, destroyed by the same eruption of the Vesuvius.

These sites are similar from one point of view. They are both excavations and museums under the open air. But there are differences that will maybe influence your choice when you plan what you would prefer to see. In this article I want to write about these similitude and differences.

Excavations of Pompeii cover great area. If you want to visit all parts of this site quietly, you have to plan at least half a day of walking. Think about your shoes first of all and about the clothes if the sun shines brightly. The temperatures are high in spring and in summer. Cover your head and take a bottle of water maybe. There are drinking fountains there but if you prefer mineral water it will be better to have it with you.

It would be great if you come there with a printed or bought before map or plan of the site and a list of the places you want to see. It's possible to find the map in the ticket office. But the possibilities they do not have the maps are very high so far as there are hundreds and thousands visitors every day. The list you prepared will help you, if your guide does not show you or your group something you are interested in. So you can ask what you want and visit the place when the group has free time.

Generally, Pompeii are ruins where is difficult to understand much without a guide or a preliminary preparation.

Excavations of Herculaneum are very "compact". They are situated inside the modern town of Ercolano (The modern town of Pompeii is developed near the excavations round the Sanctuary of Madonna of Rosary). The rules about your shoes, clothing and water are the same more or less. There are not drinking fountains, so, to have a bottle of mineral water can be useful. Visitors are here not so numerous, you can find maps and descriptions in all languages even if you come at 18:00, an hour before the closing time. For quiet visit you will need about an hour or two.

As opposed to Pompeii, the buildings are remarkably well preserved in Herculaneum. There are many frescoes and mosaics, villas preserve their statues, decorations and sometimes parts of furniture. There are incredible waves on the floors of many houses and bathes. You have not invent anything. Your eyes see and your mind understands what you have for. Read a little from the history before you go there or directly in the book you will receive with the ticket.

The other advantage of this site is, you can come here before or after the visit of the crater of Vesuvius.

What you will not find in Herculaneum are the plaster casts of the persons and animals that you can see in Pompeii in different houses.

Liudmila Pirojenko is a travel writer and author of travel blogs Vacation And Travel Talk and a new but just informative site The Marvelous World Of Travel where you can find many articles about interesting places in Campania, Italy and many other touristic attractions all over the world. She lives in Italy, not far from Naples, Salerno, Caserta. She is a member of the Archeological Group of Salerno.

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I Love Touring Rome, Italy - Campo De' Fiori District Hotels

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The delightful Campo de' Fiori area is in south central Rome. It is home to the classic Campo de' Fiori Square, which has hosted a produce market for over 140 years. Its name, Field of Flowers is rather ironic; this was the place for public executions, such as the killing during the Inquisition of Giordano Bruno in 1600. His statue overlooks the market. On a lighter note, this area buzzes at night. The French Embassy is housed in the Palazzo Farnese, a spectacular Renaissance palace. Close by is the Palazzo Spada which is open to the public. The Musei Capitolini is located in the Palazzo dei Conservatori and in the Palazzo Nuovo, two buildings on the east and west sides of Piazza del Campidoglio, both with facades designed by Michelangelo. Don't just look at the outside; there are excellent ancient sculptures, some of which are copies. For your convenience we have listed neighborhood hotels in approximate order of cost, starting with the least expensive. We have personally verified all website addresses making sure that they include English-language pages.


The Hotel Smeraldo Roma is fairly close to the Campo de' Fiori. There are 50 rooms including one for the disabled. The hotel has two rooftop terraces with a great view of Rome's historic center. The hotel address is Vicdo dei Chiodaroli, 9 - 00186 Roma.

The Town House Campo de' Fiori is located in a turn of the century building, namely when the Sixteenth Century turned into the Seventeenth. It overlooks the Campo de' Fiori, the oldest market in Rome. A continental breakfast is served in your room or in a nearby cafe. This is a non-smoking property. There are some junior suites. The address is Via dei Giubbonari, 43 - 00186 - Rome.

The Teatro di Pompeo Hotel is situated right near where Julius Caesar was assassinated. If you like old-style lodgings you'll love their beamed ceilings, terra-cotta floors, and antique furniture. The 13 rooms may be small, but remember, you're in the heart of Rome. There is a room for the disabled on the ground floor and a bar. The hotel address is Largo del Pallaro, 8 - 00186 - Rome.

The four star Hotel Ponte Sisto is located near a pedestrian bridge connecting Campo de' Fiori with the Trastevere neighborhood that you will definitely want to explore. The garden with palms trees is lovely as are the rooms in this renovated historical building. There is a lounge bar and three meeting rooms. The hotel address is Via dei Pettinari, 64 - 00186 - Rome.

Levi Reiss has authored or co-authored ten books on computers and the Internet, but to be honest, he would rather just drink fine Italian, French, or other wine, accompanied by the right foods and spend time with his wife and family. He teaches classes in computers at an Ontario French-language community college. Among his many web sites he is particularly proud of his Italian travel site with a special focus on regional food and wine at http://www.travelitalytravel.com. Check out his global wine website at http://www.theworldwidewine.com with his weekly column reviewing $10 wines and his new sections writing about (theory) and tasting (practice) organic and kosher wines, and now upscale wines.

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How to Play Italian Card Games

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St. John Lateran - VR Tours

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St. John Lateran - VR Tours
An awsome virtual tour of St. John Laterine in Rome. Quite entertaining.

An awsome virtual tour of St. John Laterine

A Wine Fan's Look at the Wines of Campania, Italy

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The wines of Campania, Italy, offer wine lovers a fascinating history in addition to delicious taste. Consider featuring these wines at your next dinner party. As you pour the wine into the glasses of your guests, share the winemaking history of the area along with wines from some of the notable wineries continuing the traditions of Campania. This article provides a look at the wines of this region, providing information you can share with your guests.


Campania, Italy

The capital of Campania, Naples, was founded by the Greeks, enlarged by the Romans, and subsequently invaded by the Normans, Hohenstaufen, French, and Spanish among others. Established by the Greeks in the 11th century BC, Naples was the earliest of a cluster of far-flung settlements throughout southern Italy. Many important figures of the age, including Pythagoras, Archimedes, and Aeschylus lived in these settlements and today some of the best ruins of the ancient Greek world can be found there.

Along with mathematics, architecture, and drama, the ancient art of winemaking also flourished in the hills and valleys of the region as the cult of Dionysus spread. Aglianico and Greco, vines the Greeks introduced, are still highly prized. The Greek historian Herodotus called this part of Italy Oenotria, the land of wine.

In the 16th century, Sante Lancerio, the bottler of Pope Paul III, raved about the wines of the Kingdom of Naples and their reputation continued into the 19th century. Subsequently, viticulture went into decline for decades as growers left the land and the majority of remaining producers ignored DOC regulations and instead chose to plant prolific vines rather than those that would produce premium grapes. In the last twenty years, producers have once again recognized the potential of southern Italy in general and have modernized their viticulture and winemaking techniques.

Fiano di Avellino and Greco di Tufo are among Italy's most distinguished white wines prized by Italian wine clubs, while Taurasi from Aglianico has been called the "Barolo of the South" because of its aging ability. This is Campania's only DOCG wine to date. Mastroberardino is a distinguished winery in the region as is Feudi di San Gregorio, Villa Matilde, Mustilli, and Casa d'Ambra.

Mastroberardino

This extraordinary family is responsible for rescuing Campania's ancient grape varieties from extinction. Without the family's efforts over 130 years that the winey has officially existed, Fiano, Greco di Tufo, and the noble Aglianico would probably have been only historical references in the writings of Titus Livius and Pliny the Elder. Aglianico is now produced throughout Campagnia in Taburno, Irpinia, and Sannio, but its greatest expression comes from Taurasi and is known as the "Barolo of the South" because of its extraordinary flavors and ability to age. Headquartered in Altripalda about 40 miles northeast of Naples in the center of the Irpinia wine making region, Angelo Mastroberardino first registered the company in 1878 at the Chamber of Commerce in Avellino. Today, his great grandson Piero Mastroberardino is the current President.

The family's devotion to ancient grape varieties was recognized by the Italian government, which commissioned it to replant the vineyards around Pompeli and match the grapes originally growing there before eruption of Mt. Vesuvious in 79 AD.

Feudi di San Gregorio

Feudi di San Gregorio is another one of Campagna's finest wine estates. Owners Vincenzo Ercolino and Mirella Capaldo recently purchased vineyards in Puglia and Basilicata to further explore the noble grapes of southern Italy. Situated in the tiny village of Sorbo Serpico in the Irpinia region, the estate was established by Ercolino and Capaldo in 1986. They have aggressively tapped into the enormous potential of Campania's unique terroir and ancient varietals, such as Fiano di Avellino, Greco di Tufo, and Aglianico. In addition to its own vineyards, the winery sources grapes from the finest vineyards set in the rolling hills of the Irpinia region, located near Mount Vesuvius. The volcano's legendary eruptions have sandstone and marl soils with mineral-rich deposits of volcanic ash, forming a unique composition that imparts highly distinctive aromas and flavors in the grapes.

Regardless of which of these favorite wines of Italian wine clubs you choose, the long, interesting history of the area and these wineries will enhance the wine tasting experience of your guests.

Chris Harmen is an author for the popular wine of the month club, Celebrations Wine Club. Celebrations Wine Club is a favorite among wine lovers who appreciate the quality choices of America's leading California wine clubs and Italian wine clubs.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_A._Harmen

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Retire to Italy

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Ciao! That is the most common word that you will hear when you first set foot in Italy. As we, all know the capital of this country is Rome where you can find St. Peter's Basilica, located in the Vatican City. This is known as the biggest Catholic Church in the whole world.

The climate here will depend on your location. The northern part of the country has a semi tropical climate with humidity. In coastal regions they experience warm weather, arid summers and a mild winter.

If you want to retire in Italy, you must have an annual income of 8,000 Euros which is US$ 11,510, for each retiree. If you are a European Union citizen, you will not need a visa to live here. For EU citizens all you have to do is go to the police station and make yourself registered as an acknowledgment of your stay in the country and then apply a permit for residency. For those retirees who are not from the European Union you must apply for a residence visa, which means that you have plans to stay in the country for more than 3 months and you have to show a proof that you can sustain your financial needs without working since you are already considered a retiree.

Pizza, spaghetti, pasta! Those are the famous foods not only in Italy but in the whole world. Aside from these there are also different kinds of dishes from different regions of Italy and here are some tips on how to distinguish where the dishes come from.

You can distinguish the dish by the fat that was used. For instance, if the dish is cooked with butter then that dish is from the north, if they used the fat of the pork that means it is a dish from the middle part of the country, and if they used olive oil then that is from southern part. They also love to use herbs in cooking like parsley, rosemary, oregano and etc. One of the most important ingredients of their cuisine is of course cheese. Coffee with milk or café latte is one of the usual drinks especially with breakfast. Marsala, the most famous wine which originated in the southern part of the country is also used for cooking in the rest of the country.

Touring is one of the best options to keep yourself busy, should you choose to retire here or in a nearby country. The country is rich with beauty and history and if you are looking for a little bit of what they call La Dolce Vita (the sweet life) then Italy is one of the greatest places to choose.

Mitch Bowler is an avid traveler, having lived the majority of his adult life overseas exploring different cultures and learning about the best that each has to offer the expatriates who live there.

Visit http://www.retiring-overseas.com/retire-to-italy.html for more information on living abroad.

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I Love Touring Venice Italy - Castello District Hotels

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The Castello district is the largest of Venice's six districts, locally known as sestiere. It's in the east of Venice and, unlike some of the others, people actually live there. This is the least touristy part of Venice, which may be an attraction for many. The area includes many historic churches. For your convenience we have listed these hotels in approximate order of cost, starting with the least expensive. We have personally verified all website addresses making sure that they include English-language pages. The exception is clearly identified.

Santa Maria della Pieta is a casa per ferie (vacation house) rather than a hotel. It does occupy the upper floors of two palaces but don't come here expecting luxury. You will enjoy the rooftop terrace. Some of the rooms are devoted to families, if you reserve early enough you may get one with six beds. There are 15 rooms. The address is Calle della Pieta, Castello 3701. Their website is Italian language only but the translation provides the basics.

The Hotel Scandinavia, originally built around the year 1000, was once a luxurious Eighteenth Century residence. According to tradition this was where Desdemona met Othello, the "Moor of Venice." Be that as it may, the hotel is right near the Santa Maria Formosa church and a typical Venetian square of the same name. There are 33 rooms. The hotel address is Campo Santa. Maria Formosa, Castello 5240.

The Ca' Formenta was an unimpressive Fifteenth Century building completely restored into a hotel in 2003. There is a rooftop terrace. I'm told that the restaurants and coffee houses in the neighborhood are filled with Venetians rather than tourists. If you don't speak Italian bring your phrase book. The street Via Garibaldi, named after the Italian national, was laid over a stream. The hotel address is Via Garibaldi, Castello 1650.

The Hotel Londra Palace was originally built in the mid-Nineteenth Century. Among its famous guests was Tchaikovsky who in 1877 wrote the first three movements of his 4th Symphony in room 106. The hotel has a bar and an upscale restaurant. There are 36 rooms and 17 suites. The hotel address is Riva degli Schiavoni, Castello 4171.

The Metropole, like the Hotel Londra Palace, has a music connection. Antionio Vivaldi taught music there. Try to get a rooftop room, or at least stop by the rooftop terraces. The place is just packed with antiques and beautiful curios many of which can be viewed on their website. The hotel boasts a Michelin two-star restaurant. There are 67 rooms and a total of 22 suites. The hotel address is Riva degli Schiavoni, Castello 4149.

Levi Reiss has authored or co-authored ten books on computers and the Internet, but to be honest, he would rather just drink fine Italian, French, or other wine, accompanied by the right foods and spend time with his wife and family. He teaches classes in computers at an Ontario French-language community college. Among his many web sites he is particularly proud of his Italian travel site with a special focus on regional food and wine at http://www.travelitalytravel.com. Check out his global wine website at http://www.theworldwidewine.com with his weekly column reviewing $10 wines and his new sections writing about (theory) and tasting (practice) organic and kosher wines, and now upscale wines.

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A Moderate Priced Chianti

Image via Wikipedia I Love Organic Wine - A Moderate Priced <a class="zem_slink freebase/en/chianti" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chianti" title="Chianti" rel="wikipedia nofollow">Chianti</a>

I Love Organic Wine - A Moderate Priced Chianti

By: Levi Reiss

We have reviewed many Italian wines and at least two Chiantis, one running about $20 and another at half the price. As you may know, Chianti has evolved over the years and what was once considered a mere table wine now shares Italy's top wine designation with both great and not so great wines. This Chianti has broken with tradition; it is made from organic grapes and is not aged in barrels. Furthermore, it is Certified Organic by the Italian agency ICEA, Instituto Certificazione Etica e Ambientale (Institute for Ethical and Environmental Certification).

The producer La Castellaccia is located in Tuscany halfway between Florence and Sienna. They use organic fertilizer and the grapes are hand picked. Check out their website for more information on their production process. Interestingly enough these people also run a stud farm for a horse breed that originated in Turkmenistan.

OUR WINE REVIEW POLICY All wines that we taste and review are purchased at the full retail price.

Wine Reviewed La Castellaccia Chianti Colli Senesi 2007 13.7% alcohol about $15.50

Let's start by quoting the marketing materials. Description: Our Quality Assurance Laboratory has determined this wine contains 25 mg/L of free sulphur. Tasting Note: Generous and finely made using traditional Chianti grapes of Sangiovese, Canaiolo and Ciliegiolo, from the Siena hills, this Chianti breaks with tradition by using no oak ageing. There are intense aromas of blackberry, blueberry and spice. Dry, excellent fruit core with an equally impressive freshness for balance. Full-bodied with a long fruit-forward finish. Almost New World in style. Enjoy with spaghetti and meatballs. (VINTAGES panel, Nov. 2008) And now for my review.

The first sips indicated quite a bit of fruit. There didn't seem to be any tannins. The initial food pairing involved an overcooked commercial barbecued chicken breast, a tomato and garlic salsa, and potatoes roasted in chicken fat. In the presence of the meat the wine was a bit thin but spicy. With the salad the wine's fruit started to come out. In the presence of the potatoes the wine's acidity was brushed with harshness but I did taste some black cherry.

The second pairing involved slow-cooked beef ribs with sliced potatoes. The Chianti was harsh and not at all round. There was some tobacco but I also noticed an aftertaste. I swirled the wine vigorously to get rid of the aftertaste but then the Chianti became thin. When I added some jalapeno sauce to the meat the wine actually improved, showing more fruit.

The final meal centered around a Middle-Eastern specialty kube, also called kibbeh. This is ground beef in crushed bulghar jackets with an acidic broth containing Swiss chard. I tasted some tobacco and the wine was fairly round, but thin.

Probably the best part was the cheese pairings. When tasted with a yellow cheddar, the Chianti was round and fruity. The tannins weren't present. With a Swiss emmenthaler the wine picked up a bit.

Final verdict. I would not buy this wine again. Except for the cheese, the pairings were not quite up to snuff. The bargain Chianti was better, independent of the price. Maybe I miss the oak.

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Levi Reiss has authored or co-authored ten computer and Internet books, but really prefers fine Italian or other wine, with good food and company. He loves teaching computer classes at an Ontario French-language community college. His global wine website www.theworldwidewine.com features a weekly review of $10 wines and new sections writing about and tasting organic and kosher wines. His Italian travel website is www.travelitalytravel.com .

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Tips On The Best Honeymoon Destinations for Your Special Trip

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Weddings and honeymoons are the two kinds of celebrations that people look forward to, plan for and anticipate the most. You can further say from these experiences that ones memories will last the longest for years to come. All the more reason to pick one of the best honeymoon destinations for your special trip.

With as many kinds of people, so is the possibilities for choosing your honeymoon. Clearly as no two couples are alike or comparable. You can also that no two honeymoons need be the same either. Prepare for your honeymoon before the wedding extravaganza begins to take up all your time and effort. Initiating a decision on the best honeymoon destinations should not be taken flippantly. After all, this is something you will have lifelong memories of so put some extra thought and attention into planning the honeymoon.

If you choose an all inclusive honeymoon or decide to opt for a la carte, once you have landed at your destination, planning in advance will take away a lot of the stresses and headaches that you would be glad to avoid during this once in a lifetime trip. Think about where you would like to go and what you would like to do on your visit. A honeymoon is a very enchanting time, intended to bring the two people closer in unison than any other romance relationship. Yet romance is not all you are going to do all the time. Activities that both can enjoy mutually can create a whole new dimension to the marriage. Think of what your expectations will be in terms of location and activities, as well as the anticipations of your wife or husband when choosing your list of the best honeymoon destinations.

If you take pleasure in the sun, surf and sand and water sports pick out all inclusive honeymoons that are at a beach resort then feature such things to do in the package. However if you are the type that enjoys a more peaceful location that caters to full relaxation you can choose more remote destinations which avoid over commercialization. For you nature lovers pick your destination that offers great hiking, biking or nature activities. People who are interested in culture and in discovering various local customs and traditions should pick places like South American locations like Rio during the Carnival or any of the Asian destinations.

There is an almost endless choice to pick from when looking for the best honeymoon destinations from around the world today. Whether it is a luxury honeymoon destination where you can truly indulge yourself and be pampered or a rough and tough adventure honeymoon, be sure to address what you like to do by doing your research and plan your activities so that you will make your honeymoon full of golden memories.

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Steve has enjoyed freelance writing for the last 3 years on various topics. He also has a passion for publishing websites. Visit his website at http://www.luxurycomfortersets.org/ that helps people find the best daybed comforter sets when they want redesign their bedroom