Finding Your Way in Fabulous Florence

Florence Roofs (Photo credit: plemeljr)

By []Giovanni Balboni

In Tuscany, villas are famous as a desirable and typically Italian place to stay when visiting this eminent region. This large area in central Italy is best known for its turbulent history, its artistic attributes and its rich and fertile soils. People travel from all over the world to appreciate the architectural elegance of its cities, to explore its breath taking landscape, and to indulge in some of the most celebrated gastronomy Europe has to offer. There is no doubt that through the ages, nowhere in Italy has attracted more artists, poets and influential people than Tuscany. Villas dot the landscape, many of them elegantly adorned with grand facades and long winding driveways. Originally built for the elite and aristocracy many have now been turned into hotels or are privately owned.

Expect the Unexpected - Contemporary Art in Umbria

skyline of Brufa, frazione of Torgiano, Perugia, Umbria, Italy (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By []Giovanni Balboni

The mystically beautiful region of Umbria sits in the shadow of its more famous neighbour, Tuscany. The area around your villa in Umbria is known as Italy's 'green heart', and this hilly region is bordered to the west by Tuscany, the Marche to the east, and Lazio to the south. Its locality is unique as the only region in Italy that is landlocked, and does not share a border with another country.

Italy is so fascinating and delightful that it can be difficult to choose a place to base yourself when on holiday. Umbria, due to its centrality, is a wise decision. Nearby, or in, Spello, Bevagna, Montefalco, Spoleto, Todi or the capital Perugia, are further great choices and will mean you are only a day trip from the entire country.

Discovering the Delights of the Tuscan City of Siena

Piazza del Campo with Palazzo Pubblico and Torre del Mangia, town of Siena, Tuscany/Italy (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By []Giovanni Balboni

Experience picture postcard Tuscany as you explore the stunning and beautiful Chianti area in the heart of Italy. Wander around the quaint hilltop towns, visit some of the country's most romantic cities and soak up the unique light and atmosphere while meandering through the countryside. When choosing to stay in Tuscany, villas dotted throughout the region are the perfect way to make the most of your time here. In Tuscany, villas are offered for rent by many excellent companies, all with something different to offer. You are certain to find one that suits your group size and holiday aspirations. Whether you are travelling with a group of friends, family, or even if you and a loved one are looking for a peaceful getaway, there will be somewhere perfect for you in this stunning region.

Enjoying the Regional Produce of Tuscany

Tuscany (Photo credit: nubui)

By []Giovanni Balboni

Summer holiday planning time is here and many families look forward to the arrival of warmer climes, a change of scene, relaxation and adventure. Escaping to countryside villas in Tuscany is the perfect way to grant all these wishes, to recharge and get your family fit and healthy. This region is like a health retreat for the whole family!

With good reason, this area is famous as one of Italy's and Europe's most popular destinations. Steeped in history, renowned for its beautiful countryside, sensational weather, fine fare and numerous tourist attractions, this part of Italy simply pulsates with a passion for life.

Favignana, an Enchanting Island in Sicily

English: The Sicilian countryside near Caltagirone. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By []Vincenzo Tavassi

A Brief Overview

If you plan on visiting Sicily you really cannot miss this island, featuring the most enchanting sea in the whole region. Favignana is the biggest island of the Egadi archipelago, which is also composed by Levanzo, Marettimo and the inlets of Maraone and Formica. The island itself is 19sm. but it is a rare natural paradise enjoying crystal waters and sunny weather most of the year. It is located in western Sicily, at 9 miles away from the Trapani coast. It may be reached by hydrofoil in 20 minutes or by ferry in an hour and all means depart from the port of Trapani, so it is fairly easy to reach and visit.

What Makes Sicilian Recipes Exceptional?

Sicilian buffet (Photo credit: stijn)

By []Sebastiano Accaputo

Recipes and food from Sicily are actually some of the world's most singled out cuisines and this comes with a perfectly good reason.

Due to the cultural heritage that is a mixture of several cultures, Sicilian cookery is something that has been formed from a lot of sources, offering assorted recipes intertwined with our very own ingredients.

Sicilian recipes were created from influences of the races which have conquered our island and when they left, they also left behind traces of their own cuisines and traditions.

Walking Routes in Sicily

English: The Aeolian Islands: standing on Vulcano, Lipari in the middle, Salina at the left, Panarea at the right. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By []Tony Maniscalco

While Sicily is perhaps best known for the quality of its cuisine and historical monuments, it definitely deserves mention as a destination for walking holidays. Hikers looking for a physical challenge are encouraged to head to the awe inspiring mountains, while those with an interest in flora and fauna can make their way along the pretty nature trails. This article highlights a few of the routes that are well worth exploring.

Italian Food: Favorite Foods of Sicily

Cannoli Siciliani, a typical sicilan sweet. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By []Ralph Molinari

Italian food and Sicilian food come with a lot of flavor and style, which represents the lifestyles of both Italians and Sicilians. Many people think of them as one in the same, but Sicilians practice many customs that differ from their mainland Italian countrymen. These differences include food. Sicilians use a lot of fish in their everyday diet, amongst many other more middle eastern variations. This comes as no surprise as Sicily is an island in the Mediterranean sea, where fishing is a huge part of the culture and economy.

Discover the Wonderful Region of Chianti in Tuscany

Vineyards in Gaiole in Chianti in the Chianti Classico region (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By []Giovanni Balboni

The Chianti region is arguably one of most beautiful places in Italy. It is deservedly well known and is a region rich in culture, history and gastronomy. There is no better way to explore the Chianti than by hiring a car and spending your days discovering the picturesque towns and breathtaking scenery at your own pace. There is no doubt that the Chianti lives up to all we expect from this stunning region in Tuscany. Villas are found in abundance throughout the area and there is bound to be one to suit your group, budget and holiday hopes.

How to Spend 7 Days in Sicily

Sicily, Villa Romana del Casale (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By []Larry Aiello

7 Day Recommended Itinerary for Sicily, Italy

If you plan to visit Sicily, Italy, there is an abundance of sights to see and places to visit. It might be difficult to narrow down all the choices you have but if you choose the main points of interest you simply must see here, it will make planning your itinerary that much easier.

The Highlights of Lucca - A True Tuscan Gem

Salumi e vino lucchese. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By []Giovanni Balboni

If you are searching for a holiday in Italy, but want to escape the crowds then why not rent one of the many Tuscan villas in or around the beautiful town of Lucca? Lucca is definitely one of the hidden gems of the most famous region of Italy that is Tuscany. Villas can be booked for short breaks or extended stays, and no matter how many people are in your group there will be the perfect villa for you.

15 Top Things to do in Madrid, Spain

English: The Almudena Cathedral in Madrid. View from south-east. Madrid, Spain (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Author: Justin Miller
When you visit Spain, it is more a question of what to choose than what to do. Here is a list of 15 top things to do in Madrid, Spain.

1.15 Top Things to do in Madrid, Spain – Puerta del Sol: Start from the city centre to have a feel of the pulse of Madrid, setting off on your exploration of the city.

2.15 Top Things to do in Madrid, Spain – Plaza Mayor: With a history dating from the middle ages, the Plaza has hosted numerous festivities and bull fights.

3.15 Top Things to do in Madrid, Spain – Parque del Retiro: Have a piece of nature with a park, museum, palace, lakes and a rose garden put together into a peaceful block in the heart of the city.

Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Barcelona, Spain

Casa Milà at dusk in Barcelona, Spain. The building is known either as 'Casa Milà' (the owner's name) and popular called 'La Pedrera' because of its look. Taken by myself with a Canon 5D and 24-105mm f/4L IS lens. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Author: Justin Miller
Barcelona is one of the most famous names in the tourism industry, and the tourist attractions in Barcelona provide a good deal of justification for the reputation built over the years.

1.Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Barcelona, Spain – Sagrada Familia: Witness the way architecture in Spain has evolved over the centuries, showcasing the signature styles of Antoni Gaudi, the celebrated architect.

2.Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Barcelona, Spain – Casa Mila: Also known as La Pedrera, this is a monumental building conceived by Antoni Gaudi in 1905 and completed in 1912, a special piece of architecture not to be missed.

3.Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Barcelona, Spain – La Seu Cathedral: The heart of the city has yet another spectacle, the imposing structure of the Cathedral, whose construction spanned a period of 8 centuries.

Advantages of Train Travel

Eurostar trains in the renovated St Pancras Station, London. 3 exposure HDR image taken on 3rd Jan 2008, in a quiet moment between trains! (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By []Jessi K Sana

Train travel not only provides a better level of safety and comfort but also adds to the traveler's experience. The insight it gives into the culture of a country or locality, and the passing vistas are totally distinct and memorable. The appeal of train travel is not just about the enchanting blur of the passing landscape but also about a lot of other advantages, a few of which are briefed below.

When compared to bus travel or air travel, train travel is more convenient as passengers have enough room to sit or recline, especially during lengthy journeys. A railway itinerary allows passengers to experience the destination in a way that is not possible from air travel. Travelers need not worry about jet lags, and weather-related delays are rare. Having a meal, strolling around or simply conversing with fellow passengers can make the trip enjoyable.

Cost-effectiveness is a major advantage of train travel. Backpackers find it the most economical means of travel, particularly because of the friendly ticket options. Rail passes and unlimited tickets are a boon to regular travellers, as they can avail significant savings on ticket prices.

Learning Holidays in Chianti

Vineyards in Gaiole in Chianti in the Chianti Classico region (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By []Giovanni Balboni

New research tells us that learning is good for our health! Learning new skills offers numerous health benefits: mental, emotional, and physical. By learning new skills you are building new neural pathways that keep your brain active, healthy and ward off the dreaded dementia. Learning in a class situation is sociable and provides opportunities to make new like-minded friends; so, why not combine some of your hard-earned leisure time with the opportunity to improve your mind and spirit and head to Italy!

Visiting Croatia's Adriatic Coast

Diocletian's Palace viewed from the south (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By []Naomi Wilson

Situated at the crossroads of central Europe, the Mediterranean and the Balkans, Croatia is hub of activity with a history that dates back to the early seventh century. With lovely summer weather and a long coastline on the Adriatic Sea, it is an ideal place to go for a holiday that is focused on sailing. Croatia's coastal region is rife with inlets, small islands, and archipelagos that create a vastly differing and visually stunning sailing experience that changes as you travel down the coastline and in and out of the smaller waterways. While you are exploring the waters, take a bit of time to sail down to the large island of Mljet. Then, head inland for a spot of kayaking on the country's rivers, before going on land at Split to see the huge structure that is Diocletian's Palace.