The Best Italian Cities

Image by ryarwood via Flickr
By Matthew Kepnes


Traveling to Italy - The Best Italian Cities
The best Italian cities are difficult to pinpoint because there are simply so many beautiful places to go to it wouldn't be fair to pick out a list and say these should be seen, while ignoring all the others. If you truly want to experience Italy, then it's best if you spend a couple of weeks there or even consider staying there a while to work or study.
The following is a description of some of the best cities that you can visit.

A short guide to paestum - II

Image via Wikipedia

Author: Daniele

The so-called Temple of Poseidon. too, was dedicated to Hera, a goddess worshipped in the whole area. It was built around 450 B.C., being contemporary with the Parthenon of Athens. its style is like that of the Parthenon, namely the classical Doric style. The difference between the early Doric style and the classical Doric style is quite clear if you compare the columns of the Basilica with those of theTempleofNeptune. You will notice a larger swelling (entasis) at half height on the shafts of the columns of the Basilica.

Italian Travels Tips

Image via Wikipedia
By Greg Hostern


Surprises
Whenever you travel to a new country your always going to find surprises. What would you do if you knew most of these surprises before you go. Learning about the do and don't s before you go will save you from a lot of embarrassment and a possibility of offending someone. One of the main things you should learn before you go is the dining and also the health and safety of the area you will traveling to. A lot of the things you will find here are things that most people have learned and gathered about traveling to Italy.

A short guide to paestum - I

Image via Wikipedia

Author: Daniele

The history of the town —Paestumwas founded by Greeks around 600 B.C. At the beginning it was called Poseidonia, since it was dedicate to Poseidon (the Roman Neptune), the god of the sea. In 400 B.C. it was occupied by the Lucans, an italic population. The Lucans ruled it till 273 B.C., when it became a Roman colony and was calledPaestum. The fall of the Floman Empire meant also the decline ofPaestum. As a matter of fact, around 500 B.C., since the mouths of the rivers running in the plain were silted up, the whole area became quite unhealthy.

The best Restaurants in London

Image via Wikipedia

Author: Carolyn Clayton

London has bout six thousand licensed restaurants and three and a half thousand pubs. It is home to about twenty two percent of the total restaurants in the whole of Britain. The menu includes cuisines from seventy major countries. London also has about thirty six Michelin star rated restaurants. London is known for its pubs and night life. About five underground stations are named after pubs. These are Angel, Swiss Cottage, Royal Oak, Elephant & Castle, and Manor House.

The city has small food joints, takeaway joints, and also sophisticated restaurants. You name it and you have it. The cuisines available are exotic and range from African, Asian, to Japanese and Chinese. Veeraswamy, Moti Mahal and Amaya are the best places for Indian food. Amaya is famous for its Awadhi dishes. Italian food can be found at the L'Anima and Zucca. These serve Italian food at its best and in central London. The juicy, rosy grilled veal chop is a must have in Zucca. Its interesting that London also has eating options for the pure vegetarians. Something that is a little difficult to find in many other parts of the world. The restaurants specializing in vegetarian food are Rosa's, Sagar and Rasa Samudra.

Top 5 UK January Sales Shopping Trip Destinations

Image via Wikipedia

Author: louiselanjaron

Santa Claus has been and gone and it is now time to find the best places for burning some cash in the January sales and organize a shopping trip. For years the January sales have taken place throughout Europe but no more so than the United Kingdom.
Last of the big spenders, the streets of the UK are just as busy if not busier in January. Some people will wait hours outside shops waiting for them to open there doors to get the best of the sales. So do not miss out, head to one of these Top 5 January sales shopping destinations and join the crowds.
London
Creme de la creme, London is top spot for shopping trips any time of year but especially so in January. You have endless options in London and you will need a good long weekend if not longer to get through it all! Convent Gardens is a popular choice with a good selection of shops, bars and restaurants.

Top 10 of the Best New Year Travel Resolutions for 2012

Image via Wikipedia

Author: louiselanjaron

The New Year is approaching and we will all be thinking of our 2012 holiday destinations. The New Year resolution traditions stretch all over the globe. Here are a few suggestions for travelers wanting to make a difference this coming year.

Travellers resolution 1 - Leave no trace

An important one for not only the countries we visit but also for nature and to respect the environment. It is important we leave nature as we find it. Take all litter with us and not to chuck it onto the ground in beach, mountain, forests and water areas. To be careful when in hot climates not to start fires, especially through the summer months.

Travellers resolution 2 - Reduce water consumption

Many of the countries we visit are warm climates that see little or no rain for months. It is important to remember that although we are on holiday the locals that live there need water supply all year round so if we are careful with the water we are helping the natives water supply. Try shorter showers and don't leave the tap running when brushing your teeth.

Travellers resolution 3 - Not to over pack

Many of us feel the need to pack our suitcases to the brim. Nothing is worse than having to lug around a heavy suitcase. Try packing sensibly and keep your luggage to a minimum. When traveling to hot countries there should be much less weight as you will only be needing your shorts, t-shirts and flip flops. Also try buy your shampoos, gels and liquids from local supermarkets once in your destination country.

Top 5 Girls Weekend Away Destinations in Spain

Image via Wikipedia

Author: louiselanjaron

Girly weekends away are perfect for catching up with friends and having a good time. Spain is known to have some of the best party locations such as the famous party island of Ibiza. For your next weekend with your friends take a look at our top 5 destinations.

Benidorm

Also referred to as the "Manhattan of Spain" for it's high rise buildings and apartment blocks. Benidorm is a coastal town situated just North of Alicante. Benidorm for many years has been a popular destination with the British, German and Belgium tourists.

Many come here for the parties but Benidorm has much more to offer than just it's wide choice of bars and night clubs. You can visit the largest theme park in Europe named the Terra Mitica Fun Park, visit Mundom a water world with Marine & Exotic Wildlife or take a day long Jeep ride through the spectacular mountain scenery of the Costa Blanca.

The top 3 beach destinations for honeymooners

Image by HeatherMG via Flickr

Author: Jamie Richardson

A tropical island retreat is at the top of many newlyweds list of potential honeymoons and it is easy to see why; deserted sandy beaches, beautifully clear turquoise waters and complete relaxation. Discover three top honeymoon destinations which have remained away from the crowds and offer the very best in romantic seclusion.
A tropical honeymoon with a difference, Australia's Whitsunday Islands are renowned for their awe-inspiring beauty, crystal clear waters, dazzling white sand beaches and spectacular fringing reefs. Stay at the luxury island retreat of Qualia, surrounded by the spectacular Great Barrier Reef and offering supreme luxury accommodation in a beautifully romantic setting. The exclusive Windward Pavilion features a spacious living area, an ocean-facing bedroom and a luxury en-suite bathroom. The whole pavilion benefits from floor to ceiling windows showcasing the stunning Whitsundays without. Honeymooners' romantic whims are completed by the sheer indulgence of a shimmering infinity-edge plunge pool on the private sundeck.

The Best of Dublin Festivals in 2012

Image by The Library of Congress via Flickr

Author: Preeti

Dublin New Year Festival 2012
New Years in Dublin is a big celebration that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. From December 30, 2011 to January 1, 2012, guests can enjoy all the festivities prepared throughout the city. Traditional Irish music, choral performances, and celebrity guest appearances are some of the venues guests can take advantage of. Don't forget to pick up tickets to Dublin's annual flagship performances. The Dublin Gospel Choir at Christchurch, and New Year Live at Guinness Storehouse. The Guinness Storehouse will feature performances by: The Knights of Leon, Ryan Sheridan, and Rattle and Hum.

Spain- The Best Place To Spend Your Holidays

Image via Wikipedia

Author: Cody

Hello guys! It's December- the month we had been waiting for. The year is coming to an end and there are a slew of options you might consider to spend your holidays. After a year of tiring work, it's time to pack up our bags and land up on a place where we have never been before. That's how we can make this Christmas vacation a memorable and special one. There are countless of beautiful vacation destinations in the world which you may consider to spend your vacation. One place that I feel would be ideal to spend your Christmas vacation is Spain.

Spain has been one of the most preferred destinations for vacation-goers and globetrotters for a long time. Spain offers loads of cheap vacation packages for family and spending a vacation is probably the best way to explore the exquisiteness of this place. Whether you are looking for an adventurous holiday or a romantic holiday or a family holiday, Spain has got a lot to boast about. In Spain, you can enjoy a host of fun-filled activities like hiking, horse riding, sailing, fishing and what not! Hobby vacationers don't forget to carry your digital camera with you as this place is perfect for photograph lovers.

Top 10 European Holiday Destinations for 2012

Image by ekai via Flickr

Author: louiselanjaron

As the New Year gets closer, it will soon be time to start thinking of your 2012 holiday destinations. To make things easier for you we thought we would list the top 10 European holiday destinations to visit this coming year.

Switzerland

Switzerland which has a population of around 7.4 million, borders with Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein, Italy, and France is well known as an exciting and intoxicating country. Switzerland has long been a popular destination due to its beautiful snow covered mountains, sparkling lakes and dense forests. Postcard perfect scenery and skiing is what many come to Switzerland for. Med-evil Castles, Cathedrals and Museums are all a must see when touring the country. Swiss chocolate is World famous as is the cheese.

The-Restoration-Of-The-Scrovegni-Chapel-In-Padua

Image via WikipediaBy: Michele de Capitani
Almost ten years have passed since the conclusion of the restoration works that have shed new light on the wonderful Scrovegni Chapel, in Padua, one of the most outstanding examples of the skills and modernity of Giotto. The works, which have required the intervention of a team composed by technicians, art historians and restorers, begun in July 2001 and ended in November 2002, with an International Congress of Studies held in Padua.

Thanks to these restoration works, which have been financed by the Ministry of Heritage and Culture, the visitors of the new millennium have been given the chance to admire Giottos frescoes in all their glory, and to discover also some meaningful details that had been hidden through time, but which are essential to understand the importance of an artist like Giotto. One of the best-known examples is given by the tears running down the face of some mothers

Happy New Year's Eve in Italy

Image via Wikipedia
By Isabel C. Moore


Your new year's eve? Always with your friends or family, having a dinner and than going to parties? Well it is a time to change something.
For you and your partner you can organize the most romantic new years eve in Italy, a country of romance, sun, history and good food. Italy gives you opportunity to chose among wonderful cities, sea, lakes or mountains where you can spent the most romantic and unforgettable new year ever.

Bruges, Belgium - Visitor Information

Image via Wikipedia
By James Andrew A Wright


Bruges is a charming medieval town in Belgium, Europe. The city is known as the 'Venice of the North', and is a renowned World Heritage Site.
Picturesque buildings, medieval architecture and winding waterways will take you back to days gone by.
Many tourists take a short visit to Bruges from Brussels, but there is too much to see in this charming city in one day - so many visitors opt for a longer break. When the sun goes down, after many tourists leave, the City becomes even more beautiful.
Brugge is a beautiful day trip location throughout the year, and makes a perfect trip from the Calais region of France.

Events and Festivals in Italy (Winter Season)

Image via Wikipedia
By Kristie Haller


WINTER
There are fairs, markets, and religious events up and down the country at this time of year. Neapolitan Christmas cribs are famous and nearly every church has one. The Christmas holiday itself is low key; more is made of other religious events such as the liquefaction of San Gennaro's blood in Naples and the Carnevale in Venice.

I Love Sightseeing Tours of Italy - Tuscany Winter Attractions and Events

Image via Wikipedia
By Levi Reiss


The Tuscany region of central Italy is famous for wine and food. Tuscany is proud of their white truffles, one of the tastiest and most expensive "mushrooms" in the world. On the second, third and fourth weekends November, why not visit La Sagra del Tartufo Bianco (Festival of the White Truffle) in the medieval hilltop town of San Miniato? Besides the food you can enjoy craft displays, theater performances, and marching bands.

Top 5 Destinations for 2012

Image by maduroman via Flickr
By Farrah M Hedwat


As 2011 draws to a close, many of us are already daydreaming of what next year's holiday will bring; however those daydreams probably involve more exotic and exciting adventures than revisiting the same resort year upon year. If you're ready to discover a new city, country or even continent, we've compiled a Top 5 list of destinations that should be unmissable in 2012, with something to suit all tastes be it a city break, sunshine holiday, long-haul or closer to home.

The Magic of Christmas in Rome

Image by paparutzi via Flickr
By Danielle Russo


Perhaps best of all about visiting Rome at the holidays (certainly not the weather, December can be close to freezing) is the experience of the wonderful and exuberant traditions of an Italian Christmas which can be seen all across the city.
Piazza Navona, one of Rome's most popular squares becomes a center stage during the holiday season. A Christmas market is set up here which includes all sorts of games, candy and toys for children as well as holiday crafts, artists and food for the adults. Children here get their stockings for the "Befana" also known as the good little witch which brings candy to the kids on the day of the epiphany. Even Santa makes his special appearance here.

Guide to Piazza Navona Christmas Market, Rome, Italy

Image by oneillsdc5 via Flickr

By Orson Johnson


If you happen to be in Rome during the Christmas season, you should not fail to pay visit to the Piazza Navona Christmas Market. From the market, visitors will be able to spot famous Roman architecture in the surrounding areas. The market square is an important part of the city's architectural history and was built in the first century to serve as a Roman Circus where the people could enjoy games, horse races and theatrical shows. The piazza Navona was once known as the Stadium of Domitian. It is is hedged in by a beautiful church and three fountains, namely, the Fountain of the Four Rivers, Fountain of the Moor and the Fountain of Neptune. There are a few other buildings around the piazza as well.

Celebrating Christmas in Italy

Image by paparutzi via Flickr
By Pollux Parker


The Christmas in Italy is celebrated in a different manner as compared to other countries. The Italian Christmas season in Italy lasts not only for a day but for a total of three weeks and it always begin with a novena.
The Novena is observed eight days before the 25th of December. It is a fun filled period that celebrated with beautiful music and laughter. Traditionally, the Novena period is observed by groups of young musicians, equipped with their musical instruments, going around their neighborhood and singing Christmas songs and reciting poems for Christmas. Musicians can also choose to be in a shepherd's clothes. They would often perform at different houses in their neighborhood and after their performance; they would be given monetary gifts.

Christmas Is All Around in London

Image via Wikipedia
By Farrah M Hedwat


Despite being the setting for Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol", the attitude of this capital city is far from "Humbug" when it comes to celebrating the festive season. Indeed, it seems that with every year that goes by, London strives to improve on its previous performances by rolling out even bigger and better decorations, lights, attractions and general merrymaking in a bid to become the most Christmassy of cities.
Visitors to England's capital this winter can't fail to feel the Christmas cheer as they negotiate the main shopping streets with their glittering window displays, bundle up in hats and mittens for a stroll through the parks, or marvel at the myriad landmarks as the strains of carolling fills the air with festivity.
Whether you live in London or are visiting for a Christmas break, here are some tips on where to look if you're hoping to get the most Christmas for your money while out and about...
Christmas Lights
London's Christmas lights are arranged somewhat strategically this year, with different Christmas-themed items depicted above each main street.

Tuscany for Nature Enthusiasts

Image via Wikipedia
By Giovanni Balboni


Tuscany is a region of Italy most notably recognised for its influence in the world of art and music. However, the prolific nature of the art that emerges from Tuscany must suggest there is something truly inspirational about the region, something sown into the proverbial soil. This is, of course, the country's natural landscape and the inspirational, captivating sights that it offers.

Tuscany - A Region Ripe With Choice

Image via Wikipedia
By Giovanni Balboni


In Tuscany, villa rental isn't just a convenient way of taking a holiday - it's about sampling a way of life. Booking a villa means being able to immerse yourself entirely into the Italian lifestyle and see how the locals live - and why they love it so much!
Urban delights
For many people, the first image that springs to mind when the word Tuscany is mentioned, is that of ancient history and sophisticated cities. That's perfectly understandable, and unless you have strolled around the medieval streets of Siena, the ancient towers of San Gimignano, or watched the sun set from a Florentine piazza, it's very difficult to claim that you've seen Italy.

Christmas Revelries Around the World

Image via Wikipedia

Author: Katsoulis

Christmas is all set to knock at our doors! This much-awaited event of the year brims the life of every individual with loads of love and happiness, which lingers in mind forever. Though the spirit of Christmas is same all over the world yet there are some exotic places that teem with stimulating ambience during the festival, beguiling people from all over.
Australia
In the month of December when the entire northern hemisphere is reeling under chilling winters, Australia experiences soothing sunny weather! This is why millions of travellers book cheap flight tickets to Australia much in advance to relish memorable and fantastic Christmas holidays in an absolutely unique way. The country hosts an array of beachside parties on the Christmas Day at some renowned beaches including Bondi Beach, Bells Beach and Perth Beach. With dazzling streets, illuminated markets and a vibrant aura, Australia glitters like a star and feels like a happy place during the Christmas holidays.