After a scouting afternoon in the area (the thermometer had been about 30/35° the whole time), my colleague Carla and I arrived at Villa del Borgo Relais. We entered the gate and we went through a nice garden before reaching the entrance of the Hotel at the end of it. While checking in I was looking around to explore discreetly the hall: tiny but nice, some original details giving a creative touch.

When we reached our room, before observing it, we preferred testing how comfortable were the chaise-longues on our veranda. A few minutes relax looking at the starry sky had been enough to pass the comfort-test!!

I was then able to have a look at the room: standard size, fresh and elegantly furnished: you can see that the Hotel is new, opened only 5 years ago! The colours were soft, the lines essential with some unusual detail (as I noticed in the common areas). I loved the style of the wood lamps, the same than the ones I’ve previously saw in the air corridor.

A refreshing shower before going out to Pula, the main centre of the area, just a few minutes away from Villa del Borgo (by car). Pula is a lovely town full of restaurants, pubs, various stands and people strolling and enjoying the freshness of the evening. We chose a typical restaurant in the centre and ordered an antipasto di terra (appetizer consisting of local cold meats and cheese) and the pasta of the day: tagliatelle with zucchini, shrimps, cherry tomatoes, bottarga and basilic…yum yum!!!

We needed a good liqueur to digest the meal: a liquorice one for me and a Mirto for Carla (the most popular in Sardinia: you can’t visit the island without tasting a Mirto!!). Now we were ready to start our boutiques tour (still opened: good for us!) to discover the creativity of the local artisans (earrings, bracelets, necklaces in various materials) as well as to enjoy the lively atmosphere of Pula.

The following day we started  with a rich breakfast: we sip our cappuccino comfortably set on our table, surrounded by big windows producing a sense of connection with the garden.

The staff of Villa del Borgo was very kind and they were pleased to show us the rest of the Hotel: the round swimming pool, the fitness area and the lovely Beauty Centre are some of the services offered to the guests.

The atmosphere was relaxing and gave a really peaceful feeling: a young couple was swimming in the pool, surrounded by sun beds partially under the shades of high pines.

The weather was beautiful, so leaving the Hotel we decided to spend a few hours on the beach before coming back to home. The choice was not easy, as there are many spectacular beaches in the area like Su Giudeu, Cala Cipolla, Chia…among them we picked Tuerredda … its stunning view of blue-azure confirmed that we made the right choice!!

Would you like to know more about Villa del Borgo or Pula area? Do you have an experience you would like to share with us? Feel free to contact me and subscribe to our RSS to keep you updated!!!

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I have a long, endless list of places to see before I die. I thing everyone has its personal list of places which have captured their interest. If Italy is in your top list of places to see before you die, I would like to suggest you some nice places to visit in my home country. Here’s the top ten of not-to-be-missed places in Italy …. Enjoy!

1.    Walking through the historical centre of Florence, Tuscany

Credits: Flickr

Florence is the first one on my places-to-see-before-you-die list and it’s not by chance. Have a stroll in the historical centre trough the most important monuments of the city, treading the same streets once travelled by Leonardo, Donatello, Giotto, Botticelli…really unforgettable moments.

2.    St. Peters’ Square and Basilica, Rome, Lazio

Credits: Flickr

Designed by the popular architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini, St. Peters’ Square lies in front of the Basilica, the biggest existing Christian church.  Rome is the city which holds the main concentration of historical and architectonical heritage of the world. How can you miss visiting the Eternal City? (Especially if you’ve just read Angels and Demons …)

3.    Valley of the Temples, Agrigento, Sicily

Whith its 1300 hectares it is the biggest archaeological site in the world and was named World Heritage by Unesco in 1997. The Valley is composed by seven temples as well as sanctuaries, necropolis, fortifications…It is suggested the visit at sunset, both to enjoy the romantic atmosphere and to avoid the sultry weather, really strong there during hot summer days!

4.    Boat trip to Cala Luna, Sardinia

Cala Luna is maybe the most fascinating cove of the island. It is reachable by boat from Cala Gonone (where you can also visit the beautiful Caves) or by land through a coastal path. The clearness of its waters is simply amazing. Cala Luna needs to be present in my places-to see-before-you-die list!

5.    The Trulli of Alberobello, Puglia
Credits: Flickr

The ancient white buildings are typical of south-centre of Puglia and the Trulli of Alberobello are the most popular. Just spend one night in a Trullo and experience the genuine Apulian atmosphere!

6.    Aosta Valley Castles, Valle d’Aosta

Besides the amazing landscapes (the smallest Italian region is surrounded by the highest European mountains), Aosta Valley is popular for its medieval castles.  Issogne, Fénis, Verrès…you’ll be spoiled for choice!

7.    Siena and the Palio, Tuscany

Credits: Flickr

The medieval city of Siena is a popular tourist destination in Tuscany. If you decide to visit it during the Palio, one of the most ancient horse races in the world, you’ll kill two birds with a stone!

8.    The Sea Stacks of Capri, Campania
Credits: Capri Hotel

Capri is located in the Gulf of Naples (to be visited as well!) and it’s a well-known holiday destination. The three Sea Stacks that characterize the island rise from the deep blue sea and create a wonderful visual effect.

9. Cinque terre (The five lands), Liguria
Credits: Flickr

Inserted on World Heritage List by UNESCO, the five lands are located in the northern Italian region of Liguria. They are represented by a rugged stretch of coast of the Italian Riviera and include five villages (anciently called five lands). Due to its long isolation, the five lands have kept their authentic and ancient traditions.

10. Venice, City of Love
Credits: Flickr

City of love, city of canals and city of bridges, Venice is the dream of lovers looking for romantic moments as well as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. I think it’s the perfect place to end my places-to-see-before-you-die list. Don’t you agree?

What are in your opinion the most beautiful spots in Italy? Do you have a personal places-to-see-before-you-die list you would like to share whit us? Feel free to comment!

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Honeymoon: which is the best destination for the dreamiest trip of your life?

Lying on the beach or discovering a new city from side to side? Relaxing on a cruise or enjoying an adventure safari in Africa? The options are many, the possibilities are endless. One thing is sure: the Hotel always makes the difference. Many people decide to spend their honeymoon in Italy, which is considered by many one of the most romantic destinations in the world. But which hotels in Italy are Honeymooners Friendly? Here some tips for you!

Villa Ducale – 4* Hotel in Sicily

Romantic hotel in traditional Sicilian style, located in one of the most renowned locations in Sicily: Taormina. Villa Ducale is definitely one of the most romantic hotels in the region, the ideal choice for honeymooners looking for a pleasant stay in the island.

Caruso – 5* Hotel in Campania

For couples who know and love the special beauty of Campania, what better place than the Amalfi Coast as perfect destination for the most romantic honeymoon? Hotel Caruso offers stunning landscapes (almost all the rooms have a private sea view terrace) and disposes of a heated infinity pool overlooking the Coast…sounds good?!

Capo d’Orso – 5* Hotel in Sardinia

For a dreamy honeymoon in Sardinia, Capo d’Orso Hotel seems to be the ideal place. The perfect location in a private bay gives really intimate moments. The hotel is neither too big nor too small (84 rooms), this allow guests to feel pampered but always keeping their privacy. The Thalasso & Spa centre offers modern relaxing treatments.

Villa Sassolini – 4* Hotel in Tuscany

Charming retreat immersed in the lush Tuscan countryside, Villa Sassolini is suggested to couples looking for a romantic honeymoon in a luxury and private setting. The beautiful Villa, built in the fourteenth century and recently restored, offers a stunning panorama over the Tuscan estates, both from the rooms and from the panoramic swimming pool.

Masseria Torre Coccaro – 5* Hotel Masseria in Puglia

The elegant Masseria is just a few km away from the beautiful Apulian sea. It offers 34 elegant and refined rooms, included a superb 100sqm Suite built in an ancient cave, which also disposes of a private swimming pool and a comfortable Jacuzzi for peaceful moments. It’s worth noting the enchanting wellness centre built in the stone…simply amazing!!

I wish I could stay in all these charming hotels once in my life! The honeymoon is, of course, a special occasion to choose the most romantic hotel in Italy, the one that conveys you the best feelings, the one you prefer for your luna di miele… But why just for your honeymoon? Every day could be a special day, and every holiday becomes special in so romantic settings….What are you waiting for?!

Credits: Flickr

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A private house in the heart of Italy: the exclusivity of Ca’Pa’ Hotel

Surrounded by a garden of more than 5000 sqm, Ca’Pa’ Hotel is without any doubt one of the most fascinating and high-class hotels you can find in this romantic part of Italy. Have a look at the rugged cliffs falling into the blue sea and let yourself be enchanted. Immerse yourself in the garden of herbs, spices and fruits smells, let yourself seduce and surprise your senses.

Location: Praiano, Salerno, Campania

Why does it deserve a mention?
It needs some sacrifice from your part: a number of steps to reach the house are to be considered as well as the lack of air conditioning (even if the thick ancient stonewalls keep the rooms enough cool). The owners are interested in receiving a few selected guests able to appreciate the essence of the house: this is why Ca’Pa’ Hotel disposes of just six rooms in total.

The six rooms of this small charming hotel are located between the first and the second floor and are divided into four double rooms and two Suites. They’re all spacious and have their own personality: each room at Ca’Pa’ Hotel has been created in a special way, following the simple typical style of Italy.

Do you need to relax with a good book? Just open the glass box in your room containing around 130 volumes. Each box focuses on a particular field: art, architecture, nature, history, philosophy and psychology. Which one do you prefer?

Ca’Pa’ Hotel privileges: a private seafront
Just a few minutes walk and a series of steps will lead you to the seafront. It is for the exclusive use of the hotel guests, who can choose to relax in one of the platforms equipped with sun loungers, umbrellas, chairs and tables. What better place to enjoy the Amalfi Coast sea in total relaxation and privacy?

A dip into the deep blue waters and your day will be completed…

Let yourself be pampered in this exclusive Hotel and discover the wonders of Amalfi Coast nature!!!

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Never underestimate the importance of food when you’re planning your holiday to Italy!!!

Yes, I know: food is not the first criteria people consider when choosing a Hotel for their holidays. But…don’t you agree that a nice holiday accompanied by excellent lunches and dinners  in an Italian Restaurant help to have an unforgettable holiday?! Well, I am convinced of this. Eating well improves mood and predisposes us to see things in a better way!!!

Credits: Flickr

As you know, Italians are mostly proud of their regional origins (in a different way and level from region to region). Either you choose a Hotel in Florence, in Rome or in the deep south of the boot, everywhere you’ll find Italian Restaurants promoting local food like it was the best thing you’ll taste in your life! No tricks: if you love Italian food, it can really be the best you have ever tasted. The assortment is so wide and the differences among regions are so distinct that we have a huge variety of original dishes and creative variants.

In order to help you to unravel the forest of Spaghetti alla Bolognese, Bruschette and Tiramisù, I’ve made a list (what a hard work!!) of charming and luxury Italian hotels whith the best Restaurants. Here it is!!

Castel Monastero Restaurant – Tuscany

The two restaurants of Castel Monastero, “La Contrada” and “La Cantina”, delight their guests with tasty Tuscan recipes. The popular chef Gordon Ramsey, who has a personal collection of 10 Michelin stars as well as a big passion for Tuscany, is in charge of the Menu.  He also cooperates with one of the 21 Restaurants of the luxury Forte Village Resort, in Sardinia.

Il Pellicano Restaurant – Tuscany

Il Pellicano Restaurant offers an elegant and refined atmosphere. The Restaurant boasts two Michelin stars and proposes delicious Mediterranean dishes.

La Casitta Restaurant, Sardinia

The exclusive Restaurant of La Casitta is located in a really exclusive setting: the island of S. Maria, in La Maddalena Archipel and is one of the few villas in the small island. The Restaurant is refined and the terrace overlooks one of the most beautiful seas in the world. The dishes are prepared with fresh local products. The Restaurant and the Villa can also be booked at exclusive use for private events!

Su Gologone Restaurant, Sardinia

If you wish to taste the ancient Sardinian recipes in a traditional setting, The Restaurant of Su Gologone Hotel is the right choice for you! Guests can enjoy the ancient savours in front of the romantic hundred-year-old fire-place.

L’Olivo Restaurant at Capri Palace Hotel, Campania

If you’re planning to visit Capri and you’re a food lover like me, just remember that the Olivo Restaurant at Capri Palace Hotel is the only one in Capri that awarded 2 Michelin stars. The ability of the chef Oliver Glowing allows interpreting the regional dishes in a modern way.

La Sponda Restaurant at Le Sirenuse Hotel, Campania

The chef Alfonso Iaccarino, awarded of 2 Michelin stars, is in charge of the beautiful Restaurant La Sponda in Positano. The dishes offered by the chef come from the regional tradition and are prepared with local products.

Don Serafino Restaurant at Locanda Don Serafino, Sicily

Located in the heart of the historical part of Ragusa, Don Serafino Restaurant boasts 1 Michelin star and has been listed among the best Sicilian Restaurants.

If you love tasting really local recipes, in some of these Restaurants you’ll maybe find the weird Italian foods I’ve written about in my previous article…just ask the waiter!!!

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Enjoy Ferragosto in Italy!!! What’s on?!

Credits: Flasc

Mid August, called Ferragosto from Italians, is not as important as Christmas or Easter – of course! But it is anyway an important celebration with ancient origins.

In the ancient days, Italians celebrated the end of the hard work in the fields in the middle of the summer, mid August. The Roman Catholic Church adopted this celebration to represent the Assumption of Virgin Mary, but always keeping the old name (Feriae Augusti = Holidays of the Emperor Augustus, which established the celebration in 18 B.C.).

Credits: Magicstars

Due to its double importance (both civil and religious) many different celebrations are organized throughout Italy in this hot days of Mid August. If you’re planning to visit Italy in August, you’ll probably find yourself in the middle of a party, a concert or a procession.

Here are some of the celebrations organized during Mid August in Italy:

Procession in Santa Maria di Leuca and Notte della Taranta, Puglia

If you’ve chosen an accommodation in Salento, Puglia for your summer holidays you’ll probably be interested in taking part to the Ferragosto organized in Santa Maria Leuca. It begins early in the morning with several celebrations and it finishes with the famous procession at sea. During it, hundreds of boats go with the statue of Virgin Mary, accompanied by the local band.
If you are in the region of Salento you can also take part to the Notte della Taranta Festival (13th-18th August), an important musical festival dedicated to the restoration and enhancement of the “Pizzica” (a typical dance of Salento).

Palio di Siena, Tuscany
If you’re spending your holidays in Tuscany, what better time to go see the Palio in Siena? Just read my previous article about The Palio!

Candelieri and Rocce Rosse Blues Festival, Sardinia

Credits: Candelieri.org

I Candelieri is the biggest celebration in Sassari, the second main Sardinian city. It is a really suggesting festival as the whole inhabitants are involved and everybody takes part on it. For music lovers, I suggest the Rocce Rosse & Blues Festival, organized in the beautiful region of Ogliastra. It has started on 23rd July and the shows will go on until 28th August.

Cavalcata del Gigante (The cavalcade of the giant), Sicily
The Cavalcata is an important Festival organized in Messina, where two statues of papier-mâché representing a giant and a giantess on horseback go through the city, accompanied by the local bands and by many typical Sicilian carts.

Are you going to be in Italy and you wish to know what’s on? Just ask me! And do not forget to subscribe to our RSS to keep you informed about Italian events and traditions both in the mainland and in the islands!!!

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Credits: Raremaps

I don’t know if it’s the same to you, but I find that old maps have a kind of charm I can’t explain. It’s just as if they tell a story which absolutely deserve to be listened. Ancient maps, I feel, give off a reverential power that you cannot pass over.

Furthermore, if you’re a bit curious like me, how could you avoid having a look at an old map if you have it within reach? Well, to satisfy our curiosity, I’ve looked for maps of ancient Italy which I am pleased to share with you. Enjoy!!!

Ancient map of Italy – Old map dating back to 1720
Credits: Anticoantico

Ancient Map of Pompeii – Old map of Pompeii before the eruption of Vesuvio
Credits: Inform.umd.edu

Ancient Map of Tuscany – Old map copper engraved
Credits: pettinarolimapsandprints

Ancient map of the territory of Rome – Old map dating back to 1620
Credits: pettinarolimapsandprints

Ancient map of Sicily – Old map copper engraved
Credits: pettinarolimapsandprints

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..…Come to Castello Banfi and make your dreams become true!!!

This is how guests often describe their stay at Castello Banfi Il Borgo: just like a dream. They’re fascinated by the superb setting. They’re enchanted by the high food and wine quality. They’re captivated by the excellent professionalism and kindness of the staff. And they don’t want to leave anymore…

Location: Montalcino, Siena, Tuscany

Why does it deserve a mention?
It takes you back in time. Castello Banfi Il Borgo is a stone village dating back to XVIII century, built around a medieval fortress, the Castello Banfi.  It is located on the top of a hill overlooking more than 2.000 hectares of vineyards, olive groves, wheat, truffles, plums as well as a forest populated with deer, wild boar and pheasants.

In this wonderful setting, guests can enjoy their stay in one of the 14 luxury rooms and suites. They have Tuscan style furnishings provided by the popular architect Federico Forquet. Each room is different from each other, but class and sophistication never fail. A touch of class? The Hotel offers in each room a selection of complementary estate wines.

The wine production is the main activity of Castello Banfi Il Borgo, which offers with pleasure the chance to know more about the estate through guide tours and wine testing. Do you wish buying some souvenir of Castello Banfi Il Borgo? No problem at all: you can choose between a selection of wines, extra virgin olive oil, grappa, pasta and much more!

Art&Food
History, nature and culture: everything is within! During your stay you can visit Giovanni Mariani Museum of Glass and enjoy the most important private collection of Roman glassware in the world.

The artistic moment doesn’t stop at the Museum: just have a look at the typical Tuscan dishes prepared at the Restaurant…The high level of the cuisine will not disappoint you!!!

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The best Italian songs of Summer 2010

Have you already planned your summer holidays to Italy? Well, here is a selected list of the best summer songs you’ll hear on the radio while sitting on a Bar in a hot summer day, eating a good Gelato alla Stracciatella. If you’re not planning to visit Italy on summer, no worries: just relax and take a little time to listen the following songs to feel you in Italy!!!

1)    UN COLPO ALL’ANIMA -- Luciano Ligabue
Called Ligabue or Liga from his fans, the popular rock singer-songwriter is also a writer and a film director.

2)    MONDO – Cesare Cremonini
He has become popular with a song dedicated to his Vespa, 50 special. Mondo is sung along with Jovanotti (Lorenzo Cherubini), popular for his social engagement characterising his songs.

3)    SE FOSSE PER SEMPRE – Biagio Antonacci
Biagio is one of the most representative Italian pop singer-songwriters. His music is often defined as being the right mix between romance and modernity.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=tOgwI_fI5Yg

4)    DONNA D’ONNA – Laura Pausini, Gianna Nannini, Fiorella Mannoia, Giorgia and Elisa
Written by Gianna Nannini and Isabella Santacroce for the concert “Amiche per l’Abruzzo” (Friends for Abruzzo), a festival dedicated to raising funds for victims of the earthquake that struck Abruzzo region in 2009.

5)    VITA – Gigi DAlessio
He is one of the most appreciated Neapolitan singer-songwriters. Semplicemente sei, the album which contains Vita,  is the 18th album of his career.

6)    FACCIA COME IL CUORE – Due di Picche
Due di Picche is a new duo composed by two independent singers, J-Ax and Neffa. The unusual duo has received some criticism but is has also been highly appreciated.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=ckBtV2xl6Is

7)    SOLE NERO – Litfiba
After 10 years, the Italian rock band Litfiba back together with the song Sole Nero, characterized by the 90s rock typical of the band.

8)    ALLE PORTE DEL SOGNO – Irene Grandi
The singer is very appreciated for her energy and vitality. This new song represents a new phase of her musical career.

9)    SENZA NUVOLE – Alessandra Amoroso
She has become popular for having participated and won the talent show “Amici”. She confirmed then her talent with her first Album “Senza Nuvole”.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=oTlv8v-2Ako

10)     HO FATTO UN SOGNO – Vasco Rossi
Vasco Rossi is one of the most popular Italian singers, often challenged for its dissolute life. He has written some of the most beautiful Italian songs.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=c0D4Sf3GwEQ

Music and literature are a good way to know new aspects about a country; I hope you’ve enjoyed your reading! Food is another good (and sometimes funny!!!) way, if you’ve missed my post about weird Italian food, have a look on it!!!

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Luxury and exclusivity are the keywords. Costa Smeralda, place of encounters of the national and international jet set as well as true paradise for sea lovers, is specialized in offering the best services to its guests. Among the best accommodations in Costa Smeralda we recall of course Starwood Hotels: Cervo, Pitrizza, Romazzino and Cala di Volpe are among the most prestigious Hotels in the area.

Each Season, Cala di Volpe Hotel organizes a Gala Dinner with live music, where national and international artists are invited to perform during the dinner in an exclusive setting.

The Dinner consists in a gastronomic buffet with international and regional specialties, served next to the pool overlooking the spectacular Cala di Volpe bay.

In the past years, many popular musicians have performed here: Barry White, Lionel Richie, Claudio Baglioni, Michael Bolton, Andrea Bocelli, Laura Pausini, Duran Duran and Craig David.

In this enchanting setting facing the transparent emerald sea two international artists will be present this summer: Simply Red and Anastacia.

Simply Red will make their exhibition on July, 30th. The English pop soul band and its leader Mick Hucknall will propose their biggest success like “Fake”, “Come to my aid”, “Starts”.

The big voice of Anastacia will delight the guests of Cala di Volpe on August, 12th. The winner of 225 gold and platinum awards will propose her most popular songs, like “Not that kind”, “I’m outta love”, “Paid my dues”.

Additionally, the special dinner will be completed by a spectacular fireworks show!!

The special evening is open to all guests of Cala di Volpe Hotel (who can confirm their attendance with a supplement) as well as to external guests.

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