Southern Italy - Campania Region

English: Salerno, city of Campania (southern Italy), with it's castle at the background Español: Salerno, ciudad de la Campania (en el sur de Italia), con su castillo al fondo (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Castel Nuovo, Naples: initiated by the Anjou, it was heavily altered as it served as Spanish headquarters until 1700s. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Italy, Region Campania - In the foreground the excavation of Herculaneum; in the background the Mount Vesuvius. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By [s]Yamila Fonseca Rosales

Campania is a region in southern Italy. The capital is Napoli also known as Naples. It is considered the second capital of Italy. Its geographic position makes it one of the best destinations for tourist, not to mention the archeological treasures it holds.

Most parts of this region are characterized by the presence of many mountains. Masses of volcanic origin can be found on the coastline. The archipelago is composed of the major islands of Capri, Ischia and Procida. There are other minor isles which are Vivara and Nisida connecting between each other and to the mainland.

Along the coast are the charming towns of Sorrento, Amalfi and Positano. Ravello is 350 meters high on the Amalfitana coast featuring an exclusive destination of interest worth visiting due to its elevated position which offers clean environment, accommodation and hospitality facilities.

You can visit the excavation sites of Ercolano and Pompei which are of great historic importance due to their archeological patrimony. Visit Vesuvius and admire its National Park.

Foods And Drinks

The cuisine is well bound to the products and traditions of the region. The origin of many dishes from this area is Greek. The exceptionally good taste of food is owned to the fertile volcanic soil of the region. In fact, all fruits and vegetables from this region are highly demanded in other regions for their good quality. This can be considered the home of Italian Pizza. The symbol of the cuisine is without doubts the Pizza Margherita, prepared with tomato, mozzarella and basil. Other dishes include Cervella alla Vesuviana (veal), Minestra di Riso Napoletana (soup with caciocavallo cheese), Calamaretti all'Amalfitana and many other dishes prepared with cuttlefish, clams and local octopus. Outstanding red wines include Vesuvio, Taurasi and for white, Greco di Tufo, Fiano di Avellino and Lacryma Christi.

Thanks for reading.

Read other related articles about Travel and Tourism at: [http://www.cybertrony.com/southern-italy-campania-region.html]

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Southern-Italy---Campania-Region&id=3418498] Southern Italy - Campania Region

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An Itinerary to Discover Procida Island, on the Bay of Naples, Italy

English: Marina Grande, Capri, Campania, Italy. On the horizon, the islands of Ischia and Procida, and the Gulf of Naples. Français : Marina Grande, Capri, Campanie, Italie. À l'horizon, les îles d'Ischia et Procida, et la baie de Naples. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Italy - island of Procida - Little harbour of Corricella. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Italy - island of Procida - Little harbour of Corricella. View from Cape Pizzaco. Taken by User:Nathan Hamblen on April 11, 2004. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Location of Procida in the Tyrrhenian Sea (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Procida (Photo credit: PhotoAgo)

By []Nico Muro

Procida Island, with its 4.1 square kilometers, is the smallest of the islands in the Gulf of Naples. It is the ideal place to spend a relaxing holiday. Coming from the ports of Naples or Pozzuoli, the maximum time spent on a ferry is no more than an hour. The arrival at the island, with its colorful houses overlooking the Marina Grande, attracts the sight and the mind of tourists immediately. On the waterfront there are bars, restaurants, souvenir shops and in the evening it becomes a destination for the islands' nightlife.

The flat morphology and spontaneous architecture make Procida Island a natural movie set. It has hosted famous movies such as "The Postman", "The Talented Mr. Ripley" and "Francesca and Nunziata". The highest part of the island is dominated by Avalos Palace. It dates back to 1563. It's citadel is surrounded by fortified walls to defend it from the Saracens. The Royal Palace of the Borboni with Carlo III has been transformed into the prison of Ferdinando II and then into a maximum security prison which eventually closed in the late 80's. The cultural and religious center is the Abbey of "San Michele Arcangelo", a Benedictine foundation which dates back to the 11th century. Inside the Abbey there are alters, paintings and statues. On the lower floors, there is a secret library that contains 8000 books and ancient manuscripts.

The quaint and picturesque fishing village of Marina Corricella is the oldest port of Procida. It can only be reached by going through the houses that are on it. The harbor has been inhabited by fishermen and their families for generations. It is very pedestrian-friendly, as the port is exposed to the sun for several hours a day which makes it a nice walk in the winter and autumn. There are some excellent restaurants that have menus offering their catch of the day, along with seasonal local produce. This is all a stone's throw away from the sea.

Procida is a volcanic island so its beaches contains dark sand. The west coast, from Ciraccio to Ciracciello, is plenty of beaches and restaurants. From this area, you can watch spectacular sunsets. In the afternoon if the Maestrale wind blows, you will see surfers and sailors. You can also see Vivara, which is a natural oasis which is connected by a bridge to Santa Margherita. Ischia can be seen in the background as well.

The inland areas of the island are less known because it is simply inhabited by residents. There you can find the lighthouse, the Cottimo and the Starza. It is mainly a rural area which used to be covered in vineyards. Via Vittorio Emanuele, the ancient road from the port to the inner part of the island, connects to Via Flavio Gioia which comes from the heart of the island to Piazza Olmo.

On this area, you can find some Apartments in Procida. The location of this area is perfect as you can walk for less than 5 minutes to the village of Coricella, Chiaia Beach, and Ciraccio Beach.

Piazza Olmo, which is in walking distance, is a popular area of the island. It is accessible by all bus lines.

On this area, you can find some [http://www.visitprocida.co.uk]Accommodation in Procida. The location of this area is perfect as you can walk for less than 5 minutes to the village of Coricella, Chiaia Beach, and Ciraccio Beach.

Piazza Olmo, which is in walking distance, is a popular area of the island. It is accessible by all bus lines.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?An-Itinerary-to-Discover-Procida-Island,-on-the-Bay-of-Naples,-Italy&id=8164542] An Itinerary to Discover Procida Island, on the Bay of Naples, Italy

Festivals Celebrated in Rome

Rome (Photo credit: tejvanphotos)

Piazza di Spagna, Roma, Italy. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

English: The River Tiber in winter with St Peter's and Castel Sant'Angelo Rome (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The Spanish Steps, seen from Piazza di Spagna (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Rome (Photo credit: Elescir)

[Piazza Navona, Rome, Italy] (LOC) (Photo credit: The Library of Congress)

By []M. Patrick Quinn

The Romans have been a festive lot since ancient times, when the Eternal City's marble-lined streets played stage to triumphant processions, colorful religious rituals and ceremonial feasts, held by a people whose sacred calendar was heavily dotted with celebratory occasions. In fact, the very word festival comes to us from the Latin word "festum", meaning holiday or banquet. The Romans of today continue the revelries with a vibrant variety of festivals, some unquestionably modern and others still very much rooted in tradition. For those studying abroad in Italy, Roma offers festivals of all kinds, not to be missed by students sojourning in the city.

Festa di Primavera -- The Spring Festival

From the end of March through the beginning of April, Romans welcome the arrival of spring with a range of cultural events. Guided tours of many of Rome's seemingly countless historical sites, including monuments and churches, are organized and made available for free, and a series of concerts take place on the famous Spanish Steps, an enormous staircase which surmounts the steep slope between the Piazza di Spagna and the Piazza Trinit� dei Monti, and which once linked the Bourbon Spanish Embassy with a church under the Bourbon family's patronage. It is this stairway which makes the centerpiece of the Festa di Primavera, for which it is adorned with a pink sea of azalea-filled vases. No springtime study abroad experience would be complete without witnessing this legendary sight.

Natale di Roma -- Birth of Rome

If you're spending a semester at a university in Rome, chances are you're interested in the city's incomparable history. This makes the Natale di Roma, or Birth of Rome festival, a must-do for the visiting student. Held on the 21st of April, Natale di Roma celebrates the birth of a little city-state on the Tiber River that would grow up to rule the known world. On this date in the year 753 B.C., Romulus founded the city of Rome. The occasion was marked in ancient times and is celebrated nowadays with fireworks, dancing and parades around Rome's ancient historical sites, while the city hall as well as many of the city's palazzi, or palaces, are illuminated during the night.

Festival Internazionale del Film di Roma -- Rome International Film Festival

So many iconic films have been shot against the one-of-a-kind backdrop of Rome -- think Roman Holiday or The Bicycle Thief -- that the fairly recent creation of the Rome International Film Festival seemed long overdue. Held in October, the high-profile festival now plays host to international films in several different categories. The award statue is shaped like the famous mounted sculpture of the ancient philosopher-emperor Marcus Aurelius.

Roma Europa

There would be no Europe as we know it today were it not for the Roman Empire, so it's only fitting that the City of the Seven Hills play cultural capitol with a preeminent festival titled "Roma Europa" through the months of October and November. Attracting artists, dancers, writers, filmmakers and digital innovators from across the world, Roma Europa was named one of the top four festivals in Europe by the Wall Street Journal. If you happen to be enrolled at a   rel=nofollow [http://www.johncabot.edu/about_jcu/default.aspx]university in Rome for the fall, give the books a rest for a bit and learn the arts at the Roma Europa festival instead.

Visit [http://www.johncabot.edu/]John Cabot University for more information about study abroad opportunities in Rome.

Patrick Quinn is a Copywriter at Higher Education Marketing, a leading web marketing firm specializing in Google Analytics, Education Lead Generation, Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Social Media Marketing, and Pay Per Click Marketing, among other web marketing services and tools.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Festivals-Celebrated-in-Rome&id=8182097] Festivals Celebrated in Rome

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Can a Holiday Improve Your Life? If the Destination is Florence Italy, You Bet!

English: Florenace, Italy at night, seen from Michelangelo's Piazza. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The equestrian statue to Cosimo I de' Medici, Grand Duke of Tuscany, by Giambologna, Piazza della Signoria, Florence, Italy (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Statue of Benvenuto Cellini, Piazzale degli Uffizi, Florence, Italy. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

English: Donatello's genius made him an important figure in the early Italian Renaissance period. His works include St John the Baptist as a Youth, his Marzocco (the Florentine heraldic lion) and his famous mature work of the bronze David. This is located in the Bargello Palace and Museum. Français : Sculpture de David en bronze, réalisée par Donatello entre 1430 et 1432. Elle est conservée au palais du Bargello de Florence. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By []Glenn Aitelli
Florence Italy is in the Tuscany region about midway between Milan to the north and Rome to the South. Florence is much more than a tourist attraction. It has been Italy's center of art and politics dating back to the renaissance period and continues to make an important contribution to global culture.

Florence Italy is our favorite European city to relax and enjoy the beauty of a special city. It is a city with a combination of qualities that allows you to do everything or nothing. You will have as much fun enjoying an espresso and people watching at a Trattoria in Piazza della Republicca as you would strolling through the Bargello museum!

Travelers can enjoy all of Tuscany while staying in one place. Florence is perfectly located to be your home base while traveling to multiple towns. You are just two short hours from Rome and 1 1/2 hours from beautiful Siena. With the large number of small towns near Florence, you could easily fill up a month vacation without ever going to the same place twice!

The best time to visit Florence:

*Spring or Fall which are called the "shoulder" seasons. April and May and October and November will not only give you great weather but will also be easier on your wallet.

*The weather in the Summer months is extremely hot and the lines for all the attractions are gigantic.

*Try to avoid traveling to Florence in August, most Italians take their vacations in August and who wants to go to Italy to be surrounded by Americans?

Walking in Florence Italy enables you to see the city on a more personal level and it's also a good way to work off the excellent Florentine food! Walking through the lesser known and spooky areas of the city may be enough to make your hair stand on its end. How brave are you? Walk daily though the narrow, cobble-stoned streets lined with palaces and churches built by the architectural geniuses of the Middle ages and the Renaissance. View sculptures adorning outdoor walls and standing in the loggias of the grand piazzas.

Florence Italy is unique in that even small alleyways and courtyards are like museums with statues and frescos. Sometimes the best thing to do is put down the guide book for a day and just start walking. Just when you realize you're lost, you will discover some new piazza or neighborhood that you would never have found in a tour guide. I always ask locals where they go to eat or where they go to hear music to see how the Florentines live

Soggiorno Battistero is a charming Hotel in the heart of Florence, directly across from the Baptistery and Duomo. The hotel has simple, comfortable and large rooms at a price that even your accountant would approve of. You will get breakfast daily with the price of your room and the staff is very helpful and can assist you with restaurant reservations and advice on things to see. Hotels just next door are three times the price and don't offer the view or service that Soggiorno Battistero does. Florence is one of the greatest cities in the world and you will fall in love and long to come back again and again! http://www.Travel-To-Florence.com is owned and operated by Glenn and Jeanne Aitelli. We have traveled extensively throughout Europe but our passion is Italy. Both of us are graduates of the International Tour Management Institute in San Francisco and we are both certified Tour Directors. It is our hope that this site will not only help you plan your trip but enhance it.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Can-a-Holiday-Improve-Your-Life?-If-the-Destination-is-Florence-Italy,-You-Bet!&id=2675916] Can a Holiday Improve Your Life? If the Destination is Florence Italy, You Bet!

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The Most Mysteriouse Place In Italy - Pitti Palace

Palazzo Pitti@Firenze (Photo credit: shok)

English: Florence, viewed from the Pitti Palace. ‪Norsk (nynorsk)‬: Firenze sett frå Palazzo Pitti. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Palais Pitti, Florence (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Palazzo Pitti in Florence, Italy File:Brogi, Giacomo (1822-1881) - n. 3039 - Firenze - Palazzo Pitti (lato di Boboli).jpg (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

front of Pitti Palace (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By []Ishfaq Ahmed

The Palazzo Pitti is also called the Pitti Palace which is a vast mainly Renaissance palace in Florence, Italy. It is located on the south side of the river Arno, which has the short distance from the Ponte Vecchio. By the Medici family this palace was buy in 1549 and after that became the chief residence of the ruling families of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany. To the Italian people by the King Victor Emmanuel III this palace and its contents were donated in the year 1919. For the largest art galleries its doors were opened. Its houses have several minor collections because of the addition of the Medici family, and it is fully open to the public. It is a large 15th century palace.

The Florentine banker Luca Pitti sought to build a palace in the year 1458. This palace design attributed to Flippo Brunelleschi, but he died 12 years before the construction started his assistant Luca Fan celli was the architect. The construction continued till 1465. Due to the expansion of the Palazzo Pitti Medici commissioned Ammanati. He worked on the palace from 1558 till 1570 which is responsible for the inner courtyard. On the terrace bordering the courtyard the Artichoke Fountain was created in the year 1641 by the Giovanni Francesco Susini. The creation of the Boboli garden behind the palace was created by the Cosimo I.

Later this palace was owned by the House of Savoy, the Bourbons and even the Napoleons. The last owner of this palace was Italian King Vitoria Emmanuelle III who has given the permission and opened this palace for the public.

This palazzo has the number of museums. You can buy the tickets by the combination with the tickets of the Boboli garden. The interior of this palazzo provides the magnificent setting for the museum in the royal apartments. It has the Galleria Palatine which is the gallery and the important collection of Renaissance and Baroque paintings. Other museums are the Galleria del Costume which has collection of clothes from the House of Lorraine Era and the Medici; another is the Museo dell Carozze where the royal carriages are displayed and also contains the Galleria d' Arte Modern which is a gallery with 18th to 20th century art. Overall this is the very good place to visit in Italy. You will found yourself as in Holywood historical movies, so its worth to give a visit.

I love traveling and I want to visit each place I mention and write on my travel blog [http://shedexpedition.com]Shed Expedition. Recently I start a new project [http://hotelsontheway.com]Hotels On The Way where I aim to make a direct link between hotels and travelers. If you like this article you will also enjoy my travel blog. My aims to bring out the most loveable places from all around the world and provide the most accurate and research based information.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Most-Mysteriouse-Place-In-Italy---Pitti-Palace&id=7812455] The Most Mysteriouse Place In Italy - Pitti Palace
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Secret Places in London

English: Eltham Palace moat , Greenwich, London (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By []Alice R

A secret place in London doesn't mean it is not to be seen, it just means that it is located in a hidden part of London waiting to be uncovered. Here are few secret places in London:

Fitzroy House:

The Fitzroy House is located in Fitzroy Street, London and this 1791 building is now a museum that exhibits works and life of L.Ron Hubbard. He is not only a famous scientologist, but also an author and a person who is passionate about photography and many other activities. The first floor of Fitzroy House exhibits the early life of this 'Guinness Book of World Records' title holder. You can find rare collections of books and original manuscripts in Fitzroy House and the second floor holds an invaluable collection of literary works by L.Ron Hubbard.

The Best Beaches in Sicily: Top 5 Shores on the Island

wildlife sanctuary "Zingaro", prov. Trapani, reg. Sicily, Italy: Tonnara del Uzzo (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Français : Realmonte : La falaise de « Scala dei Turchi », mélange d'argile et de calcaire (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

English: San Vito Lo Capo, Sicily, Italy Polski: San Vito Lo Capo, Sycylia, Włochy (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By []Giorgia Di Mattei

If you are thinking about going for a trip to South Italy, maybe you would like to know where to find stunning beaches to relax and sunbathe far from the city noises and routine. Before going, discover the 5 best beaches in Sicily you shouldn't miss for any reason.

Are you much more into sandy shores? Or do you prefer rocky beaches? Check the detailed list we've prepared for you and find out your ideal beach in Sicily!

Sandy beaches in Sicily

What Is Glastonbury?

English: Gatehouse of Glastonbury Abbey, Glastonbury, Somerset, UK (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By []Tony Brandon

Like most festivals in the UK Glastonbury is all about two things, listening to live music and having a great time with friends while doing so. The festival has been running since 1970 and has grown every year to have more people attending and more performers playing. Now the festival is so large that potential attendees need to compete with each other when the tickets are made available to ensure they get a place. It's easily the most popular festival in the UK, and offers more than just music for people to come and see and experience over the weekend.

Fair ground rides make an appearance at the festival, giving people a chance to let off some steam while waiting for their preferred band to play and have a good time with their friends. By having all of this to do, Glastonbury avoids anyone being bored and provides a wealth of things to do that no other festival can compare to.

Four Restaurants in Paris With a View

English: Notre Dame Cathedral from Seine River. Cekli Photolab. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By []Reb Whi

The French culture not just Parisian has enormous pleasure in taking both time and interest in what and when they eat. You will notice on your trip to Paris that a lot of boutiques still close between noon and 14.00hrs and that time to eat is sacred!

Brasseries are generally the only restaurants that serve food throughout the day, compared to traditional restaurants which keep the noon to 14.00hrs and 19.30hrs to midnight serving hours. Turn up after 14.00hrs in most restaurants and you will find it hard to get served. For Dinner, the tradition is to eat at 20.00hrs so book ahead so as not to be disappointed if you would like to try any of our recommendations below for Restaurants with a view!

Puglia's Stunning Sites and Raved About Restaurants

Alberobello (Photo credit: daysecoyle)

By []Giovanni Balboni

The Puglia region has not always been one of Italy's traditional tourist destinations, however it has recently become quite popular as travellers discover the area's many charms. Its Baroque towns, stunning beaches, magnificent sites and delectable cuisine have now made it a top choice for people from all walks of life. To truly have the best experience possible in Tuscany, villas are the perfect accommodation. They are located throughout the region, including Puglia, and are available in many different sizes and budgets.

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.

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.

5 Reasons to Visit Spain

English: View of the Alhambra, Granada, Spain (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By Preety Gupta

Spain is a nation that is both passionate and charming. Go beyond its vibrant fa�ade and you will find a country that is bursting with history, culture and heritage. It has got style, flair and everything else to keep an outdoor enthusiast, a beach goer, and a culture vulture satisfied. There are several reasons to visit Spain. Here are just five of them.

Luxury Hotels in Rome - The Top 5

The Spanish Steps in Piazza di Spagna in Rome. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)



By Alexander Brey


What do you look for in a luxury hotel? Location is important, along with value for money. It is not the cost which matters, but whether you feel you got what you paid for. Chandeliers in the foyer and original wall art not may not be enough to enhance your vacation, but thoughtful additional services, a comfortable room which is sound-proofed, drinks and snacks immediately to hand and an unpacking and pressing service may be exactly what you are looking for. Rome has hundreds of hotels, from budget B&Bs to well located business hotels. We help you narrow down the choice, and spell out exactly the pros and cons of 5 of the most popular luxury hotels in the Eternal City.

Rome's Most Romantic Hotels

The Villa Borghese, Rome, houses the Galleria Borghese. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By Tom Ingrams


One of the most spectacular cities in the world, Rome is like a living museum, with fountains around every corner and piazzas packed with pavement cafes from which to watch the world go by. There are little better romantic experiences than taking a stroll through these amazing streets or sharing a bottle of wine as night falls over the River Tiber. So here are the best places to stay for that special weekend for two - the most romantic luxury hotels in Rome.

The town of Messina - Sicily

Image via Wikipedia
Author: Daniele Davide


Messina is a town in Sicily called "door of Sicily" and once Zancle and Messana. Located near the extreme northeast of Sicily (Capo Peloro) on the Strait that bears her name. The city has 243,030 inhabitants and is the third of the Sicilian cities, as well as the thirteenth Italian town by population. Its port is the first in Italy for number of passengers and sixth for cruise traffic. Ancient and illustrious city, Messina has had a destructive and tragic story like few others, which deleted the greatness achieved in the late Middle Ages

Discover Sicily

Image via Wikipedia
Author: R. Ritchie

Sicily's prime geographic location in the centre of the Mediterranean Basin has meant that, over time, settlers and conquerors from the medieval Normans, Aragonese Spanish, Moorish North Africans, ancient Greeks, Phoenicians, and Romans have come and, except for the latter, mostly, gone. Today, Sicily's Roman ruins are rivaled only by those in Rome, and lovers of Roman archaeology will find a treasure trove of sites to explore.


To get an idea of the diversity of Sicily in ancient times and particularly the range of artifacts from the Greek and Roman colonizations of the island, visit the Museo Archeologico Regionale in Palermo. One of Italy’s greatest archaeological museums, it is filled with rare finds that put the multiple foreign occupations in perspective. As well, you’ll have a chance to compare priceless artifacts from the island’s different civilizations, including those from the Phoenician, Punic, Greek, Roman and Saracen periods. Listed here are some of the best Roman ruins in Sicily:

Driving in Italy

Image via Wikipedia
By Edward Pullen

I spent a week in Tuscany with my wife touring from one hill town to the next, along with a day trip to Florence. One of the best parts of the trip was driving. The experience is primarily positive, although does take some getting used to before real comfort occurs.
The driving can be broken down into three types. First and definitely the most fun is driving on the hill country winding roads. These roads are similar to the switch-backs you find hiking in the mountains, where the hair pin turns come one after another, and you feel like you are scaling a cliff at times. The drivers are generally aggressive but talented, and if you stay alert this can be a lot of fun. No place for the faint-hearted, but speeds are moderate and the turns keep you alert.
The second type is on the Italian highways, called the Autostrada and the Superstrada. Here you get used to kilometers per hour after a while, and the speeds of 130-150 seem less heroic. The primary thing to know on these roads is that when you see a big black car, usually a Mercedes, approaching from behind they intend to pass and you are expected to get to the right and out of their way. Use the left lane strictly to pass, pass quickly and aggressively when passing slower cars or trucks, and you'll do fine. The drivers are aggressive but skilled, and it can be fun.
City driving is the third type of driving. This is just something to avoid when possible. Park outside the city and take a bus or train into Florence, Rome or other large cities if possible. In the cities the traffic is snarling, slow, confusing, and not worth even trying.
Some of the most interesting things are the signs. Watch for tiny arrows pointing at road hazards and for the signs for entering and leaving towns. Mostly relax, enjoy, and stay out of the cities.
Dr. Pullen


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Venice, the Queen of the Adriatic Italy Vacations

Image via WikipediaBy Priscila Siano
The city of Venice is often described as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, making it a favorite itinerary of a lot of Italy vacation packages. This Metropolis is situated along the Adriatic Sea and extends to the river banks of the Po and Piave. The city is the home of beautiful buildings, works of art, avant-garde fashion, flavorful wines and of course the gondolas and the canals. These and more makes Venice one of Europe's most romantic cities.
The city was a major maritime power during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance and the grandeur of these periods are evident with the wonderful and fascinating Venetian cityscape. Its wealth can be seen in its marble churches and great works of art, making any vacation to Italy a memorable one. Artistic movements as well symphonic and operatic music traces its magnificent journey to this beautiful city.
Feel the romance in the air as you ride one of the city's gondolas in its grand canal. Marvel at the architectural wonders as you pass by its beautiful palaces and buildings which have diverse style and designs. You will be fascinated with its distinct Venetian Gothic architecture which brings together Gothic art and the Byzantine and Arab influences of the 14th century. Add to these are Renaissance and Baroque structures and the bridges. With sights like these, vacation packages Italy is all worth it.

Embark on Train Holidays in Switzerland to Discover the Stunning Alps and Beautiful Lakes

Image via Wikipedia
By Dipika Patel

Those looking for lakes and mountains holidays should consider a rail journey to Switzerland. With the majestic Alps, beautiful lakes and countless other astounding scenes besides, train holidays in Switzerland provide the perfect relaxing break. And by taking trains such as the Bernina Express, passengers will be able to see the very best the country has to offer while sitting in comfort.
On the Bernina Express, passengers will be able to see incredible views, such as an alpine garden, mountains and waterfalls while travelling across some of the country's most ancient landscapes. Spanning 76 miles, the line is a popular and excellent way to see some of Switzerland's most magical scenes.

Making a rail journey to Switzerland is a wonderfully simple way to travel - and to see several areas of the country in one trip. Simply departing on the Eurostar from London, holidaymakers can then change for Luxembourg and travel to Brig in Switzerland.
This is the perfect starting point for those keen to get their first glimpse of the staggering scenery on offer in the country. Travelling to nearby Zermatt, visitors will be able to see the Matterhorn, one of the country's most famous mountains, well-known for the tragic story of the first attempt to ascend it. Meanwhile, taking the railway up to Gornergrat will provide outstanding panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Those looking to enjoy the country's fine lakes will find the Bernese Oberland an irresistible place to explore. Interlaken - so named due to its location between two lakes - is the perfect destination to start with. Travellers will be able to see the Brienz and the Thun, which are ideal places to photograph, as well as take boat trips on them if desired.
Meanwhile, travelling to the Jungfraujoch - Europe's highest rail station - is a must. Situated at 11,000 ft, it offers unparalleled views of the area.
To explore the Western Alps, there are two railways which traverse their beautiful scenery. The Centovalli Railway takes passengers through some of Switzerland's most attractive valleys, while the GoldenPass Line travels through mountain peaks to the luxury resort of Gstaad - a favourite location with celebrities.
After exploring the Western Alps, holidaymakers can board the Glacier Express, which - despite its name - is a relatively slow train. Ascending the Rhone Valley, this train affords beautiful views as it crosses the Oberlap Pass, which rests at 6,670 ft.
Arriving in Chur, passengers can then climb aboard the Bernina Express - a line so prized for its excellent engineering and beautiful route that it has been awarded Unesco World Heritage status.
Additionally, it is viewed with much social importance as it provides a vital connection to the Italian-speaking south of the country.
Spanning some 76 miles, this famous four-hour journey heads south from Chur and across the Italian border into the village of Tirano. During the trip, passengers will be able to see incredible views, such as frozen waterfalls, deep ravines and snow-capped mountain peaks.
Crossing the Bernina Pass, which is situated at 11,000 ft, is a breathtaking experience. Connecting the town of St Moritz to San Poschiavo, it is an extremely popular area for tourists to cross. Meanwhile, passengers will also find themselves passing through some 55 tunnels and 196 bridges, making the journey even more exciting. Additionally, stopping off in the Italian-speaking town of Poschiavo is well worth the trip.
Before returning home, holidaymakers should take some time to explore Chur, which is one of the oldest town in the country. Home to medieval alleyways and architecture, it can be as beautiful as the surrounding scenery. Fans of history will find it an absolute delight and may be particularly intrigued by the 12th century cathedral.
People keen to experience the imposing and majestic landscape of Switzerland will find rail holidays the perfect way to do so. Offering an easy and comfortable way to explore the country, passengers will be able to see an incredible amount of beautiful scenery from their seats.
Meanwhile, there will be many opportunities to explore some of the country's towns, as well as see its mountains and lakes up close. For a relaxing and picturesque holiday, there can be no better choice than Swiss rail holidays.
If you're keen to go on lakes and mountains holidays, why not consider train holidays in Switzerland? Home of the famous Bernina Express, here you can explore the stunning Alps and beautiful, tranquil lakes all during the comfort of your rail journey.

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