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Bucharest Film Festival from the 19th to the 25th of March 2012

2012-02-10T08:49:00.000-06:00

Bucharest Film Festival from the 19th to the 25th of March 2012: The Bucharest film festival, which was born in 2005, is going to be inaugurated, and the Rumanian capital city is ready to turn into the European capital city of cinema, at least for a few days, and to welcome film lovers coming from all over the country, and beyond.

As far as tradition and renown are concerned this film festival is no match for other European events that are now become part of the cinema history, like Venice, Cannes and Berlin, but in spite of its being very young, the Bucharest festival had gained a place in the sun among the most appreciated film festivals of the old continent.

The 2012 festival will kick off on the 19th of March, giving all the film lovers and professionals the possibility to immerse in the world of Rumanian cinema, and not only in that. The Bucharest festival was conceived 7 years ago as an event focused on art house movies and only includes feature films. **End Summary** Topics: Bucharest film Festival Bucharest events film festivals

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2012-02-10T08:46:00.001-06:00

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2012-02-10T08:33:00.001-06:00

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How to Do Florence in 48 Hours

2012-02-07T09:18:00.000-06:00

Image via WikipediaHow to Do <a class="zem_slink" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=43.7833333333,11.25&spn=0.1,0.1&q=43.7833333333,11.25%20%28Florence%29&t=h" title="Florence" rel="geolocation">Florence</a> in 48 Hours

By Katy Hyslop

You have just arrived in the Renaissance capital of the art world with a couple of days to spare, so where do you go and what highlights can you see in such a short time? This is the guide for you to get the maximum out of a short stay in Florence.
14:00
Now is probably a good time to familiarise yourself with the central city, if it's late summer it will be beginning to cool down and hopefully the crush of the tourist crowds will be starting to diminish. The centre of Florence is easy to walk around as the streets are narrow and most are closed to traffic.
Starting off around the main station there is the Piazza Santa Maria Novella with the church that gives the train station its name. Opposite the church there is the Piazza Nazionale and a road which leads down to the Piazza del Mercato Centrale. Here there are a few market stalls selling leather goods, souvenirs and other items. The 2 famous buildings to see here are the Cappelle Medici and the San Lorenzo e Biblioteca Laurenziana.
15:00
You will see the Duomo before you reach the piazza it resides in as you walk down Via Borgo San Lorenzo. The squat building in front of the cathedral is the Baptistery, built on the foundations of a Roman temple. The golden doors facing the cathedral are replicas of an original set made by Lorenzo Ghiberti and regarded by Michelangelo as the "doors to paradise". But the sight most visitors are bowled over by is Brunelleschi's dome, the cap on the already impressive Chiesa Santa Maria del Fiori. Standing guard beside it is the campanile, or bell tower built by Giotto.

The view from the top of the Duomo is incredible on a clear day and well worth the trek to the top. Entry to the church itself is free but there is a charge to make the climb. You can also climb the bell tower but run the risk of the bells going off at some point and there is no lift if you need assistance to get back down.
16:00
Many of the original works that were used to decorate the exteriors and interiors of the baptistery, church and campanile are house inside the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo, behind the cathedral, the museum rooms that catalogue the history of the buildings. There are many pieces by Michelangelo, including his Pieta that he partially destroyed, which was finished later by a student. The original baptistery doors are housed here along with Duomo plans from Brunelleschi, statues and bas relief's by Donatello and others.
17:00
Walking down Via Roma you will reach Piazza della Repubblica, the edges are taken up with expensive hotels and even more expensive cafes. There are some stalls selling various touristy type things, including more belts, wallets and handbags. Keep walking down Via Calimara until you reach the loggia that houses more market stalls. Here you can test your skills at spotting a fake leather item although you don't want to make this too obvious. Better still you can drop a coin from the mouth of 'il Porcolino', the bronze statue of a boar, and make a wish.
17:30
Looking straight ahead you will see what resembles a crowded street rising up at the end of Via Porta Santa Maria. This is actually a bridge, the Ponte Vecchio, the 'Old Bridge', which was the only one spared by the Nazis in WWII. The original shops were butchers, dropping their leftovers into the Arno below. The stench got up the Medici's noses in the 16thC so much that Grand Duke Ferdinando I ordered them to move out and the more aesthetically pleasing goldsmiths to move in. This is also one of 3 bridges in the world to house shops.
18:00
Make your way back to the northern end of the bridge where there is a covered colonnade heading left alongside the river. This was built as a secret passageway for the Medici's as they walked above the populace between the Uffizi and the Pitti Palace. At the far end of the walkway you can look back to see the rear of the shops as they overhang the river below.
Behind you is also the entrance to the Piazza Degli Uffizi, a three sided piazza filled with statues and busts of famous artists from over the centuries, and of course home to the world famous Uffizi Gallery. The collection inside is second only to that of the one held at the Vatican in terms of artistic significance. Giotto, Fra Angelico, Lippi, Botticelli, Da Vinci, Raphael, Michelangelo... the list goes on. The gallery is closed on Mondays and needs at least half a day to get around, as well as to be booked in advance if you wish to view it in summer. The piazza is commonly filled during the summer with outdoor exhibitions, street artists and performers, mainly to entertain the long meandering line of tourists queuing up to get in.
Carry on through the narrow piazza away from the river until you reach Piazza Signoria. This wide open space is most recognisable by the statue of David, a copy put there in 1873 as the original had to moved inside the Accademia to protect it from the elements. Underneath the loggia is a collection of other famous statues including The Rape of the Sabines, Hercules and the Centaur Nessus, by Giambologna and Cellini's bronze statue of Perseus.
The main space is overlooked by the rather imposing statue of 'Il Nettuno', the watery figure of Neptune standing at the opposite end of Palazzo Vecchio. Close by is the mounted figure of Cosimo I Medici and the bronze plaque that marks the spot where the priest Savonarola was hanged and burned for heresy in 1498. For the super sleuths there is a another sculpture to look out for. On the wall of the Palazzo Vecchio is the carved outline of a mans face. One legend tells that Michelangelo, in a fit of pique, was proving to Donatello he was able to sculpt great works of art, even with his hands behind his back.
18:30
Inside Palazzo Vecchio the entrance shows ornate ceilings and wall decoration for this building was once the seat of Florentine government during the 13th and 14th Centuries. For a fee you can view the opulent apartments upstairs that were occupied by Medicis and other notables as well as reach the battlements for another view out over the city.
The remainder of the evening can be best spent wandering the narrow streets and enjoying a meal from one of the many restaurants and trattorias. Later on there is the night life as many bars and clubs open up after 10pm and carry on until very early in the morning.
08:00
Florence is a tourist magnet all year round so an early start is essential if you don't wish to spend countless hours queuing. A surefire way to avoid this is to part with a little extra cash in the busy summer months and pre book your tickets online or over the phone. You then pick them up at a designated time from the ticket office with your booking number. This way you can easily get to see the Uffizi and possibly another museum in the same day. To do this simply log onto http://www.firenzemusei.it or http://www.weekendafirenze.com or book through your hotel.
The Uffizi opens at 8.15am, closing at 7pm, with the artworks divided between a series of rooms all featuring a certain artistic style or period. The gallery is not restricted to just greats of the Italian renaissance but the collection also includes works by German and Flemish artists. To appreciate much of the work you would need to devote at least several hours to get round.
15:00
Either as an afternoon escape or a morning alternative there is also the Galleria Dell'Accademia, most famous for its prize possession, Michelangelo's David, the original sculpture that stood in Piazza della Signoria. The 5m tall statue was carved from a single slab of marble which some tales relate as having a fault line running through it. Michelangelo was said to have found it at abandoned at the rear of the artisan school and decided he would use it to create a symbol of Florentine spirit.
The Accademia also has other well known statues, paintings and carvings by many artists on display, well worth an hour or two looking around.
For a plesant way to round off the day there is a walk up to Piazzale Michelangelo from the southern river bank, where you will find yet another copy of Michelangelo's David, a bronze version overlooking the city. A great place to watch the city change colour at sunset and sometimes there are public events held in the piazza during the summer.
17:00
If there is still enough energy left to view one more church Chiesa di San Miniato al Monte is worth the extra effort. Situated in the parklands up behind Piazzale Michelangelo the exterior is one of the best examples of Tuscan Romanesque architecture while the interior is home to some extraordinary 13-15th C frescoes.
08:00
Depending on your time table you may have time for another set of museums or just a gentle stroll in the park. Head up to the Pitti Palace, another Brunelleschi creation for a wealthy banker that was eventually taken up by the Medici family. Inside are a series of museum rooms all dedicated to various items such silver, porcelain and renaissance clothing as well as more modern artworks from the 18th and 20th Centuries.
11:00
When the art intake has finally reached its limit there is respite in the shape of the Boboli gardens to the rear of the palace. Designed in the mid 16th C it contains typical grottoes and garden follies of the renaissance aristocracy. A chance to leave the narrow streets and tourist crowds for a while.
Your time in Florence is at an end but you may still have a chance to do a bit of that last minute shopping before bidding farewell to all the masters.
Katy Hyslop has spent the past 6 years travelling, tour guiding and generally hanging around the European tourism industry. She is now based in Italy and in charge of keeping the crew under control at Plus. If you want to know more on what to see or where to stay in Florence click here [http://www.plusvillages.com/TravelGuidesFlorence.aspx].

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Pasta, Piazzas and Pizza - Rome is a Digestive Delight

2012-02-06T22:24:00.000-06:00

Image via WikipediaPasta, Piazzas and Pizza - <a class="zem_slink" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=41.9,12.5&spn=0.1,0.1&q=41.9,12.5%20%28Rome%29&t=h" title="Rome" rel="geolocation">Rome</a> is a Digestive Delight

By Isla Campbell

Rome is a must-see destination on any European holiday. It has a rich mix of history, art, culture and architecture. Experiencing where the gladiators fought in the Roman Coliseum, the great architectural marvel of the Pantheon or the sublime beauty of the Trevi Fountain will take up a lot of your time in Rome, but you'll need somewhere to eat and relax as well. Many people enjoy Italian food at home; nevertheless experiencing Italian food in Italy's capital city is a must-do on any trip to Rome.

One of the best ways to make sure you get the most edible enjoyment out of your trip is to pair up the big sights with the local Italian markets. One of the best piazzas to visit in Rome is the Piazza Navona. Originally a competition arena, it now plays host to some exquisite architecture and sculptures. Piazza Navona is also surrounded by tourist-filled restaurants that spill out onto the square. If you feel peckish whilst at Piazza Navona and want to experience local Roman fare, Campo de'Fiori, just around the corner, is a must-see. Campo de'Fiori is a large outdoor market, brimming with fresh fruit and vegetables during the day, and providing a great meeting place in the evening with an abundance of cafés, bars and restaurants.
If you are on your way to visit the Vatican City, the Trionfale market is a handy and inexpensive place to grab a bite to eat en route. The authentic Italian cuisine and great local atmosphere in these markets make them a much more authentic local experience than sitting in one of the tourist restaurants across the city.
After you've thrown your coins into the Trevi Fountain and wished to return to Rome, why not pay homage to the one of the great Italian foods, pasta? The National Museum of Pasta Foods is a small museum located close to the Trevi Fountain and showcases the history and evolution of pasta through the ages; after you've visited, you'll view your spaghetti in a whole new way.
For more authentic Italian cuisine, without the tourists or the tourist prices, the Testaccio and San Lorenzo districts are worth a visit. Whilst off the beaten track, these areas are still easily accessible and will give you a great evening of traditional Italian flavour. If you've spent all day walking around the city and want to eat somewhere closer to home, most hotels in Rome will be able to offer advice on where the best restaurants are in their area.
After dinner you'll need to indulge in some dessert in the form of Italian ice-cream, often called gelato. The Villa Borghese and the surrounding gardens are great for taking a leisurely stroll away from the crowds, and they happen to be in the upmarket Parioli district, which is famous for its gelato.
Rome offers amazing culture and history for its visitors to experience, and if the sights are paired with discovering some of Italy's fine cuisine, your journey to Rome will be one you won't forget.
Isla Campbell is an online, freelance journalist and avid traveler and pilates devotee. When not on the road she lives on the outskirts of Oban.

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10 Places Worth Seeing in Italy

2012-02-05T15:39:00.000-06:00

Image via Wikipedia10 Places Worth Seeing in <a class="zem_slink" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=41.9,12.4833333333&spn=10.0,10.0&q=41.9,12.4833333333%20%28Italy%29&t=h" title="Italy" rel="geolocation">Italy</a>

By Orson Johnson

A truly multi-faceted land, Italy has seen a remarkable growth in tourism. Here is a list of ten hot-spots that you just cannot afford to ignore!
1. The Roman Coliseum - One of the first Roman Amphitheatres which was inaugurated after the death Vespasian in 79AD by his son Titus, the Roman Coliseum has witnessed innumerable historical gladiatorial shows of death and violence. With a capacity of 50,000, this overwhelming historical monument is a must-see in Rome, Italy.
2. The Leaning Tower of Pisa - This marvellous work of art which started in the 12th century and took around 177 years to be completed needs no introduction. One of the third oldest structures in Pisa's Cathedral Square, the tower leans at an angle of 3.97 degrees to the southwest and remains one of the most fascinating pieces of architecture to this day.
3. La Scala, Milan - While it is a known fact that opera is at the heart of Italian culture, the La Scala Opera House is one among the most famous theatres in the world. Inaugurated on 3 August 1778, this is one place an admirer of art and opera cannot afford to miss out on while in Italy.

4. Cortina d'Ampezzo - Ideal for skiing enthusiasts, the Cortina d'Ampezzo was home to the Winter Olympics in 1956. Renowned as one among Italy's best ski resorts, this chic location in the Dolomites range is well equipped for winter sports and is a hot tourist spot.
5. Shopping in Milan - A veritable paradise for shoppers, Milan has made a name for itself in the world of fashion designing. With luxurious and expensive designer boutiques like Gucci, Prada, Armani, Moschino, Valentino, Versace and Cartier dotting its streets along with the more-pocket friendly options, this place is heaven for the fashion-conscious.
6. The Uffizi Gallery - Also known as the greatest jewel of Florence, this art museum is counted among the best in the world. It has a magnificent collection of paintings, Greek and Roman statues and houses the works of great artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Titian, Rubens and Cimabue among others. This is definitely a place to visit when in Italy as it gives one the chance to admire some of the most amazing pieces of art under one roof.
7. Carnevale - This Carnival in Venice has been celebrated since centuries and it makes sense to plan a trip around late January or early February as this is the time it usually takes place. The festive atmosphere is complimented by masked balls, superb costume parades and interactive papier-mâché workshops. Truly a must-visit!
8. The Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi) - One of the most beautiful fountains in the world today, the Trevi Fountain is the largest amongst Rome's Baroque Fountains. With the legendary coin-throwing superstitions, the fountain collects almost 3,000 Euros everyday. A famous tourist sight, it is known to leave visitors with a memorable experience.
9. The Vatican - When in Italy, it is impossible for one not to think of the Vatican. This city is a must visit on the list of all Catholics who visit Italy for the first time as well as other travellers who visit just for the experience.
10. Pizza - It would be a pity if you have been to Italy and have not had their world famous Pizzas. Some great places to relish the best pizzas of the world are in Naples. Restaurants like Antica Pizzeria da Michele and 'O Calamaro's are known for their freshly baked bases and innovative sumptuous toppings.
Orson Johnson writes for Holiday Velvet, a website providing Rome apartments & accommodation rentals and Holiday and Vacation Rentals.
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Rome Areas and Neighbourhoods

2012-02-04T10:12:00.000-06:00

Image via Wikipedia
By Sarah Dudleymore

Your trip to Italy should be a memorable one and therefore must be programmed carefully. Before booking your flight and accommodation, read and find out more about the areas, famous places or most popular neighbourhoods in Rome.

1) TRASTEVERE
... grew in the middle ages with narrow, winding, irregular streets. There was no space for carriages to pass, therefore Trastevere remained a maze of narrow streets what is known today. All year round the Trastevere area is a major attraction for its restaurants, cabaret clubs, movie theaters, crafts artisans and picturesque maze of narrow cobbled alleyways. During the evenings, cafè and restaurants tables spill out over to the pavement, one area in particular is around Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere. During the morning hours, this friendly neighborhood of antique charm and unique narrow alleyways of Trastevere is better appreciated.

2) THE SPANISH STEPS
... in Italian means "Scalinata". They can be easily found and recognized by a rectangle like shape and an early Baroque water fountain called "La Fontana della Barcaccia" ("Fountain of the Old Boat"), built in 1627-29 at the foot of the stairs. It is without a doubt the longest and widest staircase in all Europe; one of the most popular and famous places in Rome. Nowadays, the Spanish Steps area has become a meeting point and also an attraction if you want to take a romantic or scenic ride in a carriage pulled by a horse around Rome.

3) THE PANTHEON
... "Temple of all the gods", was built in 27 B.C, converted into a church in 609. This perfect square rests on a cylinder measuring 142 feet wide and 142 feet high. It is the best preserved of all Roman buildings, and perhaps the best preserved building of its age in the world today. When you travel to Rome, The Pantheon is a site you must visit. There is nothing more relaxing then having your Italian cappuccino, pasta or pizza in one of its many neighbouring restaurants while facing this magnificent wonder of the world. Some of the best souvenir shops and "Gelato" in Rome can be found anywhere in this area.
4) THE COLOSSEUM
... originally known as the "Flavian Amphitheater", was capable of seating 55,000 spectators. Deadly gladiatorial combats and wild animals fights were staged here free of charge by the emperor for its citizens. It was ordered to be built by the Emperor Vespasian between 70 and 72 AD and was completed in 80 AD by his son Domitian. Even after its glorious days, today it is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Rome. Sometimes, special events are held inside.
Today's stadiums and structures have been inspired by the concepts introduced in the Colosseum's building structure.
5) THE VATICAN, St. PETER'S CHURCH
...has been the residence of the Popes only since 1377. The Vatican has been an Independent state called "The Vatican City" since February 11, 1929. During each Sunday, the popes give out masses to the public. The massive large square fills with people listening to the magic and powering words of the pope. It also houses the best museum of antiquity, artefacts, paintings and archeological finds in the world. Many people travel to Rome just to witness this event. Even though attracts many tourists, it's still a quiet, settled peaceful area to come and visit.

6) TREVI FOUNTAIN
... is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Rome located in the historic centre. It's the largest standing and most ambitious of the Baroque fountains of Rome measuring 25.9 meters (85 feet) high and 19.8 meters (65 feet) wide. The Trevi Fountain derives its name from its position at the intersection of three roads (tre vie). The building behind Trevi Fountain is called Palazzo dei Duchi di Polis, which represents a modeled replica of the triumphal arch. The traditional legend says that if visitors throw a coin into the fountain, they are sure to return to Rome!

7) CAMPO DEI FIORI
... during the day is conquered by many stand owners selling their freshly goods and vegetable products in its famous daily outdoor market. A charming location to have a quick bite to eat, wonder around, and people watching. Campo dei Fiori is full of interesting small boutiques and souvenir shops. During the whole year, people sit outside the Piazza surrounded by many outdoor Trattorias and espresso bars. By night, the area becomes lively with an animated atmosphere where people get together and enjoy the evening. It has become a popular tourist attraction in the past few years.
8) PIAZZA NAVONA
... is one of the largest squares in Rome. It is built over the oval structure of the "Stadium of Domitian", once flooded with water to stage naval battle ships seating 30,000 spectators. Today, three magnificent fountains in marble decorate the Piazza designed by Bernini with an Egyptian Obelisk in the middle of the square. The streets surrounding Piazza Navona are full of interesting small boutiques and souvenir shops. During the days of December 8th until January 6th "Befana", Piazza Navona is the host of the event celebration.
Sarah Dudleymore is a professional travel consultant. She is working for The Key to Italy a travel agency specialized in Rome Apartments for Rent.

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Piazza Navona - One of Rome's Many Beautiful Tourist Attractions

2012-02-03T16:43:00.001-06:00

Image via WikipediaPiazza Navona - One of <a class="zem_slink" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=41.9,12.5&spn=0.1,0.1&q=41.9,12.5%20%28Rome%29&t=h" title="Rome" rel="geolocation">Rome's</a> Many Beautiful Tourist <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tourism" title="Tourism" rel="wikipedia">Attractions</a>

By Jill Kammer

Rome thrives on outdoor life. Naturally, it is obvious that Rome has a lot of museums, restaurants as well as churches, theaters and many other kinds of indoor activates. But the places to see Rome that really shine are the many piazzas.
"Piazza" can be translated to mean public square. But the piazzas of Rome are unique from other famous cities because they are genuine places for lovers of outdoor art to gather and enjoy such beauty together.
Probably the finest location of Bernini's "Fountain of the Four Rivers" can be found at Navona. Four striking sculptures that Bernini's students executed are artistically arranged around a rocky mass at the center of the fountain which holds up an obelisk.. One of those stunning sculptures named "the Ganges" was created by Claude Poussin who went on to become a well known master as well.

This fountain is alive with a variety of life including a lion, a palm tree, a monster from the sea and a myriad of other figures all blended artfully together around the center of the fountain.
When this fountain was created, it was so expensive that Rome actually put taxes on bread to fund the work. This resulted in loud complaints from every level of Roman society. That scandal is now part of the lore of this artwork to enhance the fun of relaxing and enjoying a coffee as the bustling metropolis goes by.
You only need to cross the piazza to find the mighty sea god Triton riding a powerful dolphin in the Fountain of the Moor. This is an ideal location to watch the locals and tourists wander by or just bask in the Roman sun while you discuss where you will visit next. You will have a diverse selection of things to do in addition to taking in one of Rome's delightful outdoor fountains.
For example, scattered throughout the many Roman cafes and restaurants are dozens of merchant kiosks. Many Italian artists dot the piazza, ready to sketch your portrait to give you a lovely souvenir of your visit.
There is no shortage of nightlife that continues non-stop until the sun comes up. At any time you might encounter a mime, a beggar, an artist as well as throngs of tourists and Roman natives all enjoying the oval plaza together. The piazza is ideal for such public life because it was built around what is called an ancient circus. This is not a lively animal show but an intersection of many streets in one circular area.
Don't miss out on enjoying a Tartufo at the Tre Scalini while you are there. Another option is to take in the Caffe della Pace, the oldest operating bar in Rome, which is not far away. The atmosphere here is a delight as is the taste of the Campari. This will put you in a good frame of mind to stop at the Church of Sant'Agnese for confession and still be walking distance from three of those renowned Bernini fountains.
One of those fountains is the Fountain of the Coppersmiths or the "Fontana dei Calderai" which later came to be known as the Fountain of Neptune. This artwork takes the fountain theme of sea creatures to the next level with its many denizens of sea including sea horses, sea nymphs, an octopus and the great sea god Neptune himself. Rose marble construction that was used to create this magnificent fountain was also used for the door jambs at St. Peter's.
Another option is to enjoy a stroll to the location between the Pantheon and Piazza Navona, where you can hear some soothing classical music at the Piazza Sant'Eustachio. It is also a short distance to find a bus if your next destination is a tour of the Pantheon.
Lastly, when you visit Rome, you'll obviously need somewhere to stay. If you don't have family or friends who can provide a bed for your trip, then check out the apartments available for rent in the area.
Typically, Rome's hotels tend to be over-priced and of a fairly low standard, unless you're considering staying in a 5 Star hotel (they're still over-priced, but the standard is very good).
The best part about staying in a short-term rental vacation apartment, aside from the competitive pricing, space and privacy they offer, is the fact that there are so many of them in most of the major tourist hot spots, whereas the hotel availability is not as high. Plus, if you want a 3 star room (for example) near Piazza Navona and the hotels only offer 4 or 5 star (outside your budget), then you'd be out of luck with a hotel.
Instead of staying in over-priced Piazza Navona hotels while in Rome, choose a quality Apartments in Rome from Worldwide Accom and enjoy living WITH the locals in space and comfort. Worldwide Accommodation Holiday Rentals are your English-speaking Apartment rental agency based in Rome. We have over 500 apartments, villas, bed and breakfasts and farmhouses available for rent all across Italy.

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When In Italy - Twenty Essential Things To Do

2012-02-01T09:51:00.000-06:00

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By Katy Hyslop

Sitting round the dinner table one night , after a few bottles of Chianti with some old friends, most of whom had spent time as European tour guides and backpackers, I asked them to name the best thing to see or do while staying in Italy. There was a lot of loud discussion as some tried to praise the less obvious things over the more mainstream, but there were also plenty of unanimous agreement for others.

In no particular order may I present to you the top 20 things to do in Italy as decided by my mates.

1. Nun Watching in Piazza San Pietro
There is something serene about watching a line of Nuns on tour, especially on specific Saint's days, taking photos of the façade of St Peter's or trailing behind each other inside the huge basilica. They are only out numbered by the pigeons, which parents ,who hate their children, encourage to sit on their offspring's head in hopes they will pick them up and fly away, perhaps dropping them somewhere over the Forum.
2. Eating Gelati 3 times a day
This is mandatory for anyone travelling during the months of June, July and August. How the Italians get it so creamy, tasty and dribbly is beyond me but you never feel full. It's the best thing after a long hot day queuing up for hours to see all those magnificent artworks. It is made with totally natural ingredients and everybody claims to have the best gelato shop in Italy, which is believable, but some even go further, experimenting in odd flavours like tomato and believe it or not basil.
3. Holding up the leaning tower of Pisa
You've all seen it. The obligatory photo of someone and their mates holding up the Leaning tower, either with one finger or both hands. Probably the next best thing to climbing it, which is all anyone goes to Pisa to do. And holding it up is about the cheapest thing there.
4. Dodging Cars in Rome
After sky diving in Switzerland and a taxi ride in the Czech republic this probably the most adrenaline packed activity you can do in Europe. To cross the road you must keep walking, make sure you keep eye contact with any oncoming driver like a bullfighter and keep moving. The cars and bikes will come very close, never actually touching you, so long as you keep going.
5. Parking on a Kerb
Everyone else does it.
6. Singing a Duet with a Gondolier
He may not be the next Pavarotti but your gondolier should have a pretty good voice. They know all the old favourites and it makes the experience all the more authentic. They usually ask for a bit extra for the service on top of the hire fee. The most favoured time is around dusk as the lights are coming on making the reflections in the water add to the atmosphere.
7. Hanging out with the Pope on Wednesday
Tourists, Nuns, Priests, locals and pigeons flock to Piazza San Pietro for the weekly address from his holiness Pope Benedict XVI at around 10am. Afterwards you can check out the inside of the Basilica and the crypt where St Peter's remains are kept.
8. Checking out David's A--e
You could line up and pay to see the original inside the Accademia, where it was shifted at the end of the 1800's to protect it from vandals and the elements. Or you could examine his copy up close in Piazza Signoria for free, or you could climb the hill above the Ponte Vecchio to see the bronze version standing in Piazza Michelangelo. Or you could see all 3 and make a comparison.
9. Drinking wine and watching the sunset in Cinque Terre
There is something quite unique about sitting on the rocks next to where the fishing boats pull up, lanterns bobbing along the wires around the cove in the sea breeze, listening to a guy practising his baritone opera through an open window, watching the sun sinking over the horizon sipping on a locally made red after eating home made pasta and pesto sauce. Perfect.
10. Eating Pizza in Napoli
Home of the Margherita pizza. A famous local pizza maker Rafaelle Espositi heard the Queen of Naples was interested in trying a pizza so he made a patriotic one using basil, tomato and mozzarella for the colours of the Italian flag. She liked it so much she gave her name to it. To be enjoyed while observing the kamikaze scooters and cars going hell for leather down the narrow streets.
11. Cliff Diving in Sorrento
Not for the faint hearted. Locals, generally boys, scramble up the steep cliffs to leap off dropping tens of metres into the big blue beneath. If that is way too over the top you could always take a mask and snorkel and wait around underneath.
12. Calling your mum from the top of the Venice Campanile
Believe it or not there is a public pay phone at the top of the campanile so you can make that all important call to your mum, or maybe order a pizza for dinner.
13. Wine Tasting in Chianti
There is a theory that the word Chianti comes from the old Etruscan word for water 'Clante', which is an obvious connection to make if you drink a lot of Chianti. The stringent production standards set by the Consortium means the quality of all types of the wine is consistent and it's hard to find a bad one.
14. Tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain
But don't go swimming unless you want to pay a huge fine. One coin means you return to Rome, two coins means you return and get kissed and three coins means you return and get married. All the money gets swept up regularly and given to charity. The authorities also don't take kindly to anyone stealing from the fountain. Put the coin(s) in your right hand and throw over your left shoulder. It's something fun to do with the change from your third gelato.
15. Visiting the Sistine Chapel
If you survive the 3km walk through the rather opulent Papal Rooms of the Vatican Museum you will be rewarded with the sensational view of the Sistine Chapel ceiling. Created in situ by Michelangelo, he often painted freehand straight onto the wet plaster, through belligerent Papal outbursts, financial difficulties, staffing problems, slipping foundations, wars and finally completed after 4 years in 1512. Take mini field glasses and some sort of key to each fresco. The noise of everyone whispering is only drowned out by the guard bellowing 'silencio' every so often.

And don't sit on the steps.
16. Walking the planks in a flooded Venice
One of the more original experiences when visiting this watery city. Winter rains flood the lagoon and when the tide is in the level can rise to your knees. Practical locals have come up with the solution in the form of raised platforms so you can walk the planks around Piazza San Marco without getting your toes wet. Or you could invest in some stylish rubber booties.
17. Getting Grappa-ed ( drink too much Grappa)
Every country has it's fire water. In Russia and Poland it's vodka, in Mexico it's Tequila, in Czech it's the Absinthe and in Italy it's Grappa. Distilled from the leftovers from pressing the grapes for wine, all the pips, skins and stalks, it is usually drunk at the end of a meal after the espresso. The first shot takes care of any sensation in your throat and the second and third take care of the rest of the nervous system.
18. Buying a Ferrari hat
After football, the Pope and their own mother comes the nation's almost religious following of that little red car from Maranello. Most Italian drivers appear to fancy themselves as the next Schumacher along the autostrada, including the truck drivers, but you have to admit the car is cool.
19. Riding a scooter in Tuscany
Winding country roads between rolling green hills, vine rows neatly slicing down the hillsides, wild flowers in the fields and those tall cypress trees lining the driveway to a mediaeval villa. All that fresh air and the chance to take life at the local pace while unpacking a tasty picnic in some farmer's field.
20. Finishing a Bistecca alla Fiorentina ( T bone Steak)
The resurrection of the Florentines favourite steak made national headlines. The local celebrity butcher from Panzano, Dario Cecchini had held a public funeral and memorial service when the EU banned the sale of beef on the bone products after the mad cow scare a few years back. Now it's back and everyone is celebrating. Just make sure you're really hungry for this one as it is huge.
The general consensus was that these were all the things that should be done during a trip to Italy, along with all the usual art and history things of course, in order that you get the most out of the trip.
Katy Hyslop is a women of action keeping Plus Villages and their staff under control regularly visiting their hostels in Rome [http://www.plusvillages.com/HostelsInRome.aspx]. Her experience as teacher, backpacker and tour guide in Europe for the past six years enables her to have a unique view on the world of travel.

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ANZIO (Rome) Is One of the Last "Best Kept Secrets" For Italy Fans and Individualists

2012-02-01T09:49:00.000-06:00

Image via Wikipedia
By Adrian Coman

The picturesque and genuine harbour is located directly at the Mediterranean Sea, 45 km south of Rome and free of mass tourism. The culture and the history of the region, the nature and the typical Italian way of life invite the visitor to enjoy "la dolce vita" atmosphere and sea life. In recent times, the Allies landed on its shores during World War II, and the American Monumental War Cemetery is not to be missed.
In ancient times, Emperor Nerone chose it as the site for the Complex of the Imperial Palace and the Roman Theatre. The Roman Port and the Grotto of Emperor Nerone represent two more salient features of the town. By day time, the town lazily lies in the sun along its beautiful sandy beaches (both free or equipped with parasols, sun beds, restaurants, snack bars) and is an ideal sea life resort. At night has a very lively night life with many open air restaurants, pubs and genuine pizza houses all over town and along sea shore offering exquisite Italian cuisine, wines and day-fresh sea foods. The region has a mild climate. The summers are sunny, dry and temperate with refreshing soft winds coming from the sea , the warm water enables swimming from May to October.

The happy geographical location of Anzio at the doorstep of ROME enables you to explore the Capital and the Vatican City with their immense cultural wealth and art masterpieces. Many other attractive points are within reach: Popes' Palace and Frascati at Castelli Romani, the fountains of Villa d'Este at Tivoli, the Island of Ponza with its splendid protected marine park, Naples and Pompei etc. The area with its pinion-forests and the coast landscape offers a high recreational value and sporting activities: golf, tennis, horse riding, fishing, wind surf are available in Anzio and the surrounding.
Anzio has a good train connection to Rome, that brings you in 50 minutes in the centre of the city and from there you can use all metro and bus connections to discover the city. In contrast with the busy life of the town central, the residential areas (where our holiday homes are located) are quiet and peaceful near the sunny beaches in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere and are ideal for families with children. The "Made in Italy" shopping fans can purchase a high quality fashion, shoes from Armani, Versace, Roberto Cavalli, etc. in one of the most famous Outlet in Europe at factory prices in Castel Romano (Rome) which is located only 25 km from Anzio direction Rome.
Adrian Coman
http://www.vacanzio.de

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5 Attractions in Rome, Italy for Food Lovers

2012-01-26T23:12:00.000-06:00

Image by ryarwood via Flickr
5 Attractions in Rome, <a class="zem_slink" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=41.9,12.4833333333&spn=10.0,10.0&q=41.9,12.4833333333%20%28Italy%29&t=h" title="Italy" rel="geolocation">Italy</a> for Food Lovers

By James Burrows

With food playing such a significant role in Italian culture it is natural that when you visit the country you will want to experience some of the best attractions on offer in this respect. Rome is the capital city of Italy and the food culture is certainly represented extremely well in the restaurants, shops and other attractions around the city. Below are some of the best attractions in Rome for food lovers to experience:
Campo Dei Fiori Food Market - This traditional Italian marketplace is certainly not the place to shop for cheap souvenirs. The market is renowned for its high quality produce and there is a price to pay to acquire these goods. The price is well worth paying however if you are a fan of top of the range food products, especially bread. The market has a reputation for offering the best bread in the area.

Good Food and Railway Museum - This museum is the perfect way to experience some of the best food products in the area as well as soaking up some local culture. The museum is located in the area of Rome where a significant amount of fighting took place during the Second World War. The display of trains and war memorabilia is complemented by the Osteria Il Bersagliere which boasts a selection of fabulous local food produce which is high quality but pleasantly affordable.
Antica Pesa restaurant - The Antica Pesa restaurant is steeped in history and has played a significant role in the history of Rome over the least few centuries. As well as serving glorious food, the restaurant is also a regular spot for celebrities and people of importance who visit the Antica Pesa to sample traditional, seasonal dishes.
Restaurant Mirabelle - The Michelin Star is the highest accolade which can be bestowed on a restaurant, so the fact that Restaurant Mirabelle has been awarded a Michelin Star serves as a testament to the quality of food which is served here. Located on the 7th floor of the Hotel Splendide Royal Rome, the restaurant offers magnificent and breathtaking views of the city.
Glass Restaurant Srl - Ristorante - This is an attraction to please the modernist. The largely glass construction affords the restaurant a contemporary feel which is unrivalled within the city. The food served matches the extravagance of the building, to the extent that the restaurant has been awarded a Michelin Star.
James spends a lot of time in Rome, Italy and especially loves the local foods and wines. James also promotes Vatican apartments and Spanish Steps accommodation for tourists in Italy.

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5 Attractions in Rome, Italy for Food Lovers

2012-01-26T23:07:00.000-06:00

Image by ryarwood via Flickr5 Attractions in Rome, <a class="zem_slink" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=41.9,12.4833333333&spn=10.0,10.0&q=41.9,12.4833333333%20%28Italy%29&t=h" title="Italy" rel="geolocation">Italy</a> for Food Lovers

By James Burrows

With food playing such a significant role in Italian culture it is natural that when you visit the country you will want to experience some of the best attractions on offer in this respect. Rome is the capital city of Italy and the food culture is certainly represented extremely well in the restaurants, shops and other attractions around the city. Below are some of the best attractions in Rome for food lovers to experience:
Campo Dei Fiori Food Market - This traditional Italian marketplace is certainly not the place to shop for cheap souvenirs. The market is renowned for its high quality produce and there is a price to pay to acquire these goods. The price is well worth paying however if you are a fan of top of the range food products, especially bread. The market has a reputation for offering the best bread in the area.

Good Food and Railway Museum - This museum is the perfect way to experience some of the best food products in the area as well as soaking up some local culture. The museum is located in the area of Rome where a significant amount of fighting took place during the Second World War. The display of trains and war memorabilia is complemented by the Osteria Il Bersagliere which boasts a selection of fabulous local food produce which is high quality but pleasantly affordable.
Antica Pesa restaurant - The Antica Pesa restaurant is steeped in history and has played a significant role in the history of Rome over the least few centuries. As well as serving glorious food, the restaurant is also a regular spot for celebrities and people of importance who visit the Antica Pesa to sample traditional, seasonal dishes.
Restaurant Mirabelle - The Michelin Star is the highest accolade which can be bestowed on a restaurant, so the fact that Restaurant Mirabelle has been awarded a Michelin Star serves as a testament to the quality of food which is served here. Located on the 7th floor of the Hotel Splendide Royal Rome, the restaurant offers magnificent and breathtaking views of the city.
Glass Restaurant Srl - Ristorante - This is an attraction to please the modernist. The largely glass construction affords the restaurant a contemporary feel which is unrivalled within the city. The food served matches the extravagance of the building, to the extent that the restaurant has been awarded a Michelin Star.
James spends a lot of time in Rome, Italy and especially loves the local foods and wines. James also promotes Vatican apartments and Spanish Steps accommodation for tourists in Italy.

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The Fountains of Rome

2012-01-26T22:51:00.000-06:00

Image via WikipediaThe Fountains of <a class="zem_slink" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=41.9,12.5&spn=0.1,0.1&q=41.9,12.5%20%28Rome%29&t=h" title="<a class=" zem_slink"="" rel="geolocation"></a><a class="zem_slink" href="http://www.comune.roma.it" title="Rome" rel="homepage">Rome</a>" rel="geolocation">Rome
By Jhon Mcnemor

Rome has over the millennia of its history, leaving to posterity a special sign of passing time: a thousand fountains, a thousand squares that recall the style and art of an amazing city like Rome. The Fountains have always been filled with wonder travelers, such as the English poet Percy B. Shelley, who wrote that "the fountains are sufficient to justify a trip to Rome."
From the Renaissance to the Enlightenment, many architects wrestled with this particular form of sculpture. One of the nicest is the one made by the master John Fontana, made between 1608 and 1612, commissioned by Pope Paul V and that is the great and monumental exhibition of the Acqua Paola. Once with five small basins, was later restored in 1690 by yet another fountain, which endowed it with one big tub, and much more spectacular effect.

We can not forget the fountain by the great architect, known around the world Gian Lorenzo Bernini, who designed the Triton Fountain (1643), in Piazza Barberini. Precocious genius, Gian Lorenzo, since, apparently, his father Peter - commissioned by Urban VIII to make the Fountain of the Four Rivers (1627-29) in Piazza di Spagna - took advantage of the advice of the young child.
But there is a fountain that has long blew television screens becoming an icon of Italian journalism, becoming the scene of the reporters perfer live from the palaces of Roman power: was Giacomo della Porta fountain Journal of the Pope, to whom we owe the most "telegenic" the fountains of Rome, the Piazza Colonna, close to Palazzo Chigi, seat of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers.
Among the most beautiful is the one the one of Moses in Piazza San Bernardo, which is the show was the aqueduct Felice and ornament of the huge villa - no longer exists - built starting in 1585 by Pope Sixtus V. Rome, the wonders it contains an amazing historical account given by his fountains from the mark left by world renowned artists and architects who wanted to leave their signature in the capital Reagle water games for all humanity alike.
Following the words of the poet Byron only the view of Roman fountains worth the trip to the capital. to visit Rome and immerse yourself in its many fountains to choose a nice place to sleep, maybe a typical street of the center, where, besides being able to learn about the wonders of the city, you can see up close the people doing in Rome what it is. Select the accommodation that suits you using these sites, sign and expression of Italian style, attentive to detail and unforgettable atmospheres.
http://www.hotelsinrome.net
http://www.italyhotels-rome.com
Traveler, discoverer, and looking for places unknown places that contain a great beauty

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Easter Traditions Around the World

2012-01-26T22:37:00.000-06:00

Image via Wikipedia<a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Easter" title="Easter" rel="wikipedia">Easter</a> Traditions Around the World
By Mandy Waters

Easter, the holiday surrounding Christ's death and resurrection, is celebrated in Christian communities across the world. However, not everyone celebrates in exactly the same way. Different countries have evolved very different Easter traditions, from decorating eggs to flying kites and reading mystery books. In many countries, Easter has also become more secular, creating the traditions of Easter breaks during the school year and chocolate rabbits for children. Here are five Easter traditions from around the world.
Kite Flying
In Bermuda, people traditionally fly kites for Easter. This practise is said to have begun when a British teacher had trouble explaining Christ's Ascension to a church class so he made a cross-shaped kite to help illustrate the event to his students. Now people make colourful paper kites with long tails for Good Friday every year. Most of these kites are hexagonal, with wheel-like spokes, instead of cross-shaped, while some are octagonal in shape. Several Bermuda kites hold the world record for length and height of flight.
Egg Breaking

Many countries dye and decorate eggs for Easter, but in Latvia, the tradition also involves breaking them. As part of a holiday game, each person takes a coloured boiled egg, then chooses a partner. The two players tap the large ends of their eggs together, followed by the narrow ends. They then tap one narrow end against one wide end, before repeating the process. If a player's egg breaks, that player must leave the game. The last person left without a broken egg is declared the winner.
Easter-Crime
In Norway, it is common to turn to mystery books and TV detective shows during the Easter period. This tradition, known as "Passkekrim", or "Easter-Crime," started because many new crime books are published between Holy Thursday and Easter Monday - a period of public holiday. Also, it is common for Norwegians to go on holiday during this period, often taking new books along with them.
The first Easter-crime promotion occurred in 1923, when Harald Grieg released a crime book advertisement that read like a regular news article.
Witch Costumes
Image via WikipediaIn western Sweden, children dress up as witches to visit neighbours in a tradition similar to American trick or treat. The children are known as "Paskkarringar," (Easter hags) and carry brooms and Easter cards during their visits. They may receive a small amount of money or candy from their neighbours and often carry a coffee pot with them to hold any goodies. This tradition started because Mediaeval people thought that on Easter eve, witches stole brooms and flew over church bell towers on their way to visit Satan.
Easter Bonfires

Large fires are common in parts of the Netherlands and northern Germany. They are known as "Paasvur" in Dutch and "Osterfeuer" in German. They are lit at sunset on Easter Day. This tradition actually comes from the pre-Christian Saxons and was adopted by Christians during the Mediaeval period. The fires are meant to bring the community together and symbolise the triumph of life over death. They may be used to light a Paschal candle for Easter celebrations.
Like many other important holidays, Easter isn't a static celebration. It evolves to meet the needs of the people to whom it is important. Future Easter celebrations could involve mobile phones, contacting loved ones via the Internet or a range of other new traditions. People enjoy this important holiday in different ways all over the world, but there is of course no wrong way to celebrate.
Mandy Waters writes regularly on topics such as holidaying and Easter Breaks.

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Gubbio - City for Exploration

2012-01-26T22:34:00.000-06:00

Image via Wikipedia<a class="zem_slink" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=43.35,12.5666666667&spn=0.1,0.1&q=43.35,12.5666666667%20%28Gubbio%29&t=h" title="Gubbio" rel="geolocation">Gubbio</a> - City for Exploration
By Constance Grayson

Gubbio is one of the most beautiful cities in Umbria. It is also a perennial favorite with our guests. This city is located on the lower slope of Mount Ingino, a small mountain in the Apennine Mountain chain. Gubbio is about a thirty minute drive from our home base in Pietralunga, in the northeast corner of the region of Umbria. Very ancient, the city was inhabited prior to the Romans by the Umbrian peoples, the first tribe to inhabit the Italian peninsula. Even today, the majority of houses in the city center are 14th and 15th century and the streets wind this way and that-perfect for an adventure of exploring.

Gubbio was already occupied in the Bronze Age by the Umbrian tribe. In fact, a museum in Gubbio contains the Eugubine Tablets, the largest surviving text in the Umbrian language. Following the Umbrian occupation of Gubbio, however, the city encountered centuries of turbulent warfare with various of the other Umbrian cities. One such war led to a miraculous intervention of Gjubbio's bishop, later canonized as Saint Ubaldo and today the patron saint of Gubbio.
The historic sections of Gubbio still contain workrooms that carry on ancient craft traditions for which Gubbio has been renowned for centuries. You can wander into workrooms where bookbinding with leather is done in the ancient way, or shop in ceramic shops where majolica is made in the Gubbio tradition where special luster glazes imitate gold and copper. If you are feeling more adventerous, you can travel by funivia (a two person cable car) up the side of Monte Ingino to reach the cathedral dedicated to Saint Ubaldo. The view of the valley below is spectacular and the visit to the cathedral worth the short trip.
Each May 15, Gubbio is host to literally thousands of people who come to watch the centuries old running of the Festival of the Candles. The race, which dates back at least one thousand years, is run to honor three saints-Saint Ubaldo, Saint Anthony and Saint George. Supporters of each saint are easily identified by the color of their shirts-yellow for Ubaldo; blue for Anthony and black for George. Worn with white trousers, red neck scarfs and belts, the visual impact of thousands of these costumes is unbelievable. These three teams carry huge wooden "candles", each weighing near half a ton, up the mountain from the main piazza to the cathedral of Saint Ubaldo at the top. I have been informed that tradition requires that Saint Ubaldo's team always wins.
The Roman influence is also clearly seen in Gubbio. On the outskirts of town are the remains of a Roman amphitheater, purportedly the second largest surviving one. Our guests often picnic in the adjacent park and photograph, sketch or paint the city scape above the theater. We often see hang-gliders landing in the adjacent park at the end of their flight which originates at the top of the mountain.
For more information on Gubbio and its attractions, visit http://www.experiencemyitaly.com.
Constance Grayson
Experience My Italy, Inc.
http://www.experiencemyitaly.com
info@experiencemyitaly.com

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Five Things To Do In Lombardy and Italian Lakes

2012-01-16T16:33:00.000-06:00

Image via WikipediaA country of pasta and wine, sunshine and snow, renaissance palaces and roman ruins, Italy is as beautiful as it is complex, making this region of Italy so popular for people to come and have a self catering holiday here in a rental villa or a rustic rural house. Lombardy is an Italian region which occupies a major part of Po Valley.
Orobic Alps, Rhaetian and Lepontine form its northern borders and it has a hilly district having major Italian lakes from lakes of Iseo, Como and Varese to Easter slopes of the Lago Maggiore. This area is rich in water mainly because of Po and the affluents. The capital of the region is Milan and the major cities are Brescia, Bergamo, Varese, Mantua, Pavia, Cremona, Sondrio and Como.
The first thing you can do in Lombardy is to view its Romanesque architecture. Each major city of Lombardy has beautiful examples of this type of architecture and the most stunning monument from the Gothic period remains the Cathedral of Milan.

The period of Renaissance has left some sumptuous churches and splendid palaces in Lombardy that are worth seeing if you have visited the place. The Lombard paintings received their greatest splendor in the 15th century.
There are several art museums in Lombardy which include several sections dedicated to applied arts, sculpture and painting. The Brera Gallery exhibits some of the all-time painting masterpieces and the Poldi Pezzoli museum has a rich collection of paintings from great masters, art objects, fittings and jewelry. Painting masterpieces can also be seen in the Pinacoteca Ambrosiana.
The second thing that you will not resist from doing in Lombardy is participating in activities such as skiing and snowboarding. Being a region of snow, these activities are an all time favorites for the visitors of Lombardy.
There are even institutes that provide instant training to people who do not know how to ski or snowboard. Other activities that you will love to do include cycling, hiking, trekking, camping and wildlife viewing.Rental accommodation can be found in the towns or a chalet in one of the sky resorts.
Shopping is the third thing you will love to do in Lombardy as a visitor. Apart from Milan, there are other places also that provide great shopping facilities for the shopper's minds. Bergamo has the biggest shopping center of Italy named as Oriocenter and it offers everything that you can shop for including foot stuff, jewelry, clothes and Italian leather goods.
Bellagio also has several stores in its central district where you can buy some expensive leather and fashion goods. Visit the Strada Nuova area of Pavia which is a major pedestrian and shopping area of the town.
Some of the major Italian lakes include Lake Garda, Lake Como and Lake Maggiore. The fourth thing you can do here is to be on a steamer that cruises between stately gardens and resort towns. Also visiting the famous gardens of Isola Bella, Isola Madre and Borromean Islands is worth it.
The fifth thing you must do in Italian Lakes is to become a part of the film and music festivals, sporting competitions and local events that are held in the area all year through.
There are also several villas, villages and historic towns that are able to satisfy you if you are interested in exploring the culture of the area. The diversity of this region make it so accessible and easy for families to have a self catering holiday here.

About the Author

Andrew Gibson is M.D of Direct Holiday Bookings. Italy rentals are popular with families staying in self catering holiday homes in The Lombardy Italian Lakes. They also have a great selection of self catering villas to rent in The Lombardy Italian Lakes as holiday rentals.

Basilicata – The Last Undiscovered Region Of Italy

2012-01-16T16:29:00.000-06:00

Image via WikipediaThe southern Italian region of Basilicata borders on Campania to the west, Puglia (Apulia) to the east, and Calabria to the south, and has a short coastline on the Tyrrhenian Sea and another on the Gulf of Taranto in the Ionian Sea to the southeast. While it’s not the first place you might think of for a holiday in Italy, the region has a special charm that is slowly being discovered by visitors who are keen to get away from the more touristy parts of Italy.
Basilicata offers stunning arid mountain scenery and inland villages, perched on the hills, where time seems to have stood still. On the coast there are charming villages and seaside resorts such as Lido di Metaponto, with its archaeological relics, Marina di Pisticci, Lido di Scanzano, and Lido di Policoro. Remains of the Roman Era can be seen in Venosa along with medieval art. Basilicata is divided into two provinces: Potenza and Matera.
Matera and the sassi

In Matera, the Ridola National Museum holds Paleolithic relics and ceramics that date back to the Neolithic, Bronze and Iron ages. Just outside the city are distinctive ancient settlements, known as sassi, that have been declared a World Heritage Site. These well–preserved settlements have been cut from rock and include over 100 rock churches from Greek-Byzantine Monastic civilizations. Important sassi include Montescaglioso, with its commanding medieval Abbey of S. Angelo; Miglionico, known for its fine Norman castle;
Irsina, famous for the 12th century Monastery of S. Francesco, its crypt decorated with fine frescoes; Tricarico, with its medieval religious buildings; Pisticci, known for its rows of white houses; and Tursi, set above the Sinni River valley, and the nearby lone church of S. Maria d'Anglona. While there are good hotels in Matera, staying in the rock dwellings is a very different experience, and hotels like Hotel Sant'Angelo, made up of 16 historical dwellings that have been reformed into living areas, include all mod cons. Another accommodation alternative in the old town is one of the many B&Bs where you’ll have a chance to interact with locals and enjoy delicious home cooking.
Potenza, the capital of Basilicata, is of pre-Roman origins, and its Saint Gerard Cathedral was rebuilt at the end of the 1700s. The city’s Provincial Archeological Museum houses an important prehistoric collection, an interesting ethnographic section, and numerous Greek and Roman treasures including the Tempietto and the Statuina di Persefone.
One of Potenza province’s most historic towns, Rivello, set on a strategic ridge that overlooks the Noce Valley and Mount Sirino, has a fascinating mixture of Longobard and Byzantine architecture. Also worth visiting are the Convent of Sant’Antonio da Padova and Santa Barbara’s Church. The Byzantine Church of San Michele dei Greci features a Neapolitan school polyptych dating from 1614.
The Vulture area
In the north of the province of Potenza, fertile soils allow the cultivation of excellent grapes and olives. Here the two beautiful lakes of Monticchio lie within an old volcano, not far from the two castles of Frederick II of Swabia at Castel Lagopesole and Melfi. The Norman S. Lucia Church at Rapolla, Venosa, known for its famous Abbey of the Trinità, and Acerenza, with its thirteenth-century cathedral, are additional district architectural attractions.

About the Author

Rod Ritchie writes for many publishers including AA Publishing and Fodors. Visit Cottages to Castles for high quality villas in Italy and Italian vacation rentals.

The Italian Food Culture

2012-01-16T16:24:00.000-06:00

Image by davide.santoni via FlickrImage by HatM via FlickrThe Italian food culture concerns not only what we see at Italian tables or in a rich Italian restaurant menu.
It is something much deeper in Italians’ DNA.
Italians have some beliefs that go beyond education or tradition.
Concerning pasta
An easy example could be the pasta shapes and their seasonings. Considering that among dry pasta (the ones you usually buy inside paper or plastic bags that last for long) the difference is only the shape of it, nothing else, the shape itself is something very important for Italians.
There’s a traditional pasta sauce recipe from Roma region called Pasta all’amatriciana (it’s a tasty sauce made with tomatoes and bacon). Usually it’s served using the bucatini pasta (kind of huge spaghetti with a hole in its middle).
An Italian woman was disgusted hearing her hairdress telling her colleague that preferred it with short pasta. She said: “Don’t ask me why. It is just as it is. Amatriciana must go with long pasta. How can one imagine cooking it with short pasta?” The same goes for pasta with oil and garlic (aglio e olio), you probably will never see it served using any other pasta that isn’t spaghetti.

Cappuccino
A lot of people around the world drink coffee and milk. In Italy, people use to drink cappuccino – a coffee and milk with addition of milk foam.
All around the world people drink coffee and milk whenever feels like doing it. Italians will never ask for a cappuccino in the evening! Why? It is just as it is. It’s not time to have a cappuccino. Cappuccino is for breakfast!
Italians do not accept someone who asks a cappuccino after, or even worse, together with dinner. They really twist their nose when they see someone doing it.
Drinking
In Italy there are bars everywhere. There are many small cities, having about 1,500 inhabitants that have about 20 bars.
It happens because drinking in Italy is associated with greetings. When an Italian meet a friend, it’s natural to “drink something together”.
If it happens to serve a drink to someone seat besides you, never turn the jar or the bottle against the natural way of your hand. For example, if you have the jar in your right hand, the glass must be on the left side, never behind, on the right side of your right hand. Otherwise it may not bring good luck.
Meals
In many countries it’s common to eat a salad as entrance.
Not in Italy.
Italians eat salad as a side plate for the second dish. Now you can find some tourist restaurants in main cities that propose rich salads for the tourists…but Italians never ask for them!
Italians respects lunch time. If you come to visit Italy and want to have lunch, pay attention to restaurants’ closing times. Usually after 2:30pm the kitchens are all closed and you’ll have to eat a sandwich. If an Italian is travelling outside Italy, he will probably look for a restaurant during lunch time. If he doesn’t or cannot find one, and finds one at 3:00pm, he’ll probably say that is not hungry anymore, that he uses to eat at that time otherwise he loses his hunger.
Italians trust their food. While most of the tourists look for local food, considering it part of the vacation, it’s very common to see Italians looking for Italian restaurants while abroad. They seem to be afraid of new and different food.
They begin to open themselves to new food when go outside Italy more often and learn to appreciate and trust foreign cuisines.
Other than trusting and loving their own food, Italians hate when people try to mix other food cultures with Italian ones. An example? Never add ketchup to a pasta dish! You cannot imagine how your Italian friend will stare at you if you try to do so.
The interesting in all these is that they don’t do it for being presumptuous, but they really believe you’re wasting your taste. Italian culture still has a lot of “musts” that go with generations that just follow it without knowing why it is done in this or that way.

About the Author

Ana Maria da Costa, economist and enogastronomic expert, lives in Italy since 1983 and shows Italian food culture from the inside, with tips and useful info in her website All about Italian food.

How to Understand Best the Seven Hills of Rome

2012-01-10T14:23:00.000-06:00

Image by ryarwood via FlickrHow to Understand Best the <a class="zem_slink" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seven_hills_of_Rome" title="Seven hills of Rome" rel="wikipedia">Seven Hills of Rome</a>?
By Davis Carey

The Seven Hills of Rome are the foundation on which the ancient city is built upon. These include the Palatine, Esquiline Aventine, Viminal, Caelian, Capitoline and Quirinal. While they all play an important part, it is ideal to note that the original traditions of the city were founded by Romulus and this was on Palentine. History and tradition states that they were not a city in the beginning but rather as small settlements. It was later on when religious games were organized by occupants of these regions that they start to bond together.

As this progressed, the distinct settlements were then merged to form groups. This in turn drained the marshy valleys, which were between the settlements. They were turned into markets and in this manner the city was formed. Out of the 7 that make up the current city, it is important to note that only 5 are populated with parks, buildings, and monuments. The Capitoline on the other hand is what hosts the city's hall while the Palatine is known as the archeological area. Note that each of these has its own history and as such, it is important to ensure that you understand each.
Aventine

The most ancient structure was destroyed by fire though the Mithraic Basilica that dates back to the 5th century is still intact.
Caelian

Roman King Tullus Hostilius who ruled in 673-641 BC is believed to have relocated the population of Alba Longa city to this location after conquering it. It was then considered the home of the elite. Monuments to find here include the Baths of Caracalla built in the 206-216 AD.
Capitoline

This was considered the ideal location of a citadel. In addition to this, it also hosted temples that were considered sacred to Jupiter, Minerva, Juno. In addition to this, it is ideal to note that the Roman senate meetings were held here.
Esquiline

The initial structures here were the Domus Aurea or the Golden house that were built by Emperor Nero. After his death, they were destroyed and in their place, the Baths of Trajan and the Coliseum were built.
Palatine

This was the first place to be inhabited and it is believed to have been founded by Romulus. It has several palaces and other imperial buildings that are still standing up to date.
Quirinal

This was not in the original map out of the city. It has several palaces and it was considered to be the safe haven of a god named Quirinus.
Viminal

This has the Baths of Diocletian that was built between AD298 and 306. In addition to this, the National museum of the city and a couple of churches are found here.
To know more about the Seven Hills of Rome and cheap hotels in rome please visit us at http://www.romeshortstay.com

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Day Trips to Take From Prague Hotels

2012-01-10T14:19:00.000-06:00

Image via WikipediaDay Trips to Take From <a class="zem_slink" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=50.0833333333,14.4166666667&spn=0.1,0.1&q=50.0833333333,14.4166666667%20%28Prague%29&t=h" title="Prague" rel="geolocation">Prague</a> Hotels
By Emily EM Collins

If you've stayed in Prague before and on this visit you're looking to get out of the medieval city and visit some of its surrounding areas, then these scenic day-trips are likely to be just what you're looking for. None of the journeys should take longer than three hours, which means that you should be back at your Prague hotels by nightfall:
Karlovy Vary

The best spa experience in the Czech Republic is located just 2.5 hours outside the city centre and is best reached by express bus from Florenc bus station. The town has been known for its healing waters since the 14th century, when it was first discovered by Charles IV. Some patients even visit the town on referral by their GP for the medical treatments that involve consumption of the water. However, there are also treatments designed purely for relaxation from spa massages to light and heat therapy, which along with beauty treatments must be booked in advance. After such a relaxing day you'll fall asleep as soon as your head touches the pillow back at your Prague hotels.
Plznen Brewery Museum

If the cheap beer was one of the main drawing factors of a holiday in the Czech Republic, then you simply must take a day trip to the town of Plznen. Not only is the beer much cheaper outside of the city centre, but the town is also the home of Pilsner beer. In the 15th Century malt-house, visitors can trace beer's history from Mesopotamia to current day brews. Once you've explored the museum you'll want to visit the factory where you can watch a short film on beer production, and visit a cooper's workshop; of course, there's also plenty of tasting opportunities during the tour. If after the tour you haven't yet had your fill of beer then you must visit Na Parkene Pub before you catch the train back. This pub serves up unfiltered beer that was the mainstay of beer drinkers a century ago.
Kutna Hora

If you want to buy a special souvenir from the Czech Republic, then forget searching the gift shops around your Prague hotels. Instead book a trip to the 15th century silver-mining town of Kutna Hora, where the Royal Mint was established. The town is also known for its ossuary or bone church, with an entire interior decorated from human bones salvaged from the 30 years' war. The Royal Mint and stunning gothic cathedral of St. Barnabas are two other attractions worth visiting, while the Royal Mint Museum paints a detailed picture of Kutna Hora's past.
Konopiste

Just thirty minutes from the centre of Prague, Konopiste was the former home of Franz Ferdinand whose assassination in Sarajevo sparked the start of WWI. His historic home is now more commonly known for the 300,000 hunting trophies that line the walls and the opulent d�cor. History buffs will want to visit the museum that features the bullet that killed the Archduke alongside various pieces of paraphernalia. More recently, the film "The Illusionist" was shot in the castle grounds and guests may recognise some locations from the movie.
Emily Collins works in the travel industry and writes articles based on the world's top destinations and the latest holiday offers.
For more great deals on Prague hotels, visit http://www.hotels4u.com.

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The Best Italian Cities

2011-12-31T14:50:00.000-06:00

Image by ryarwood via FlickrThe Best Italian Cities
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.

Rome
Rome is the capital of Italy and has a history that spans thousands of years. Ancient buildings built by the Romans line the streets, including the Coliseum, Amphitheaters, Baths and many more. It also has monumental medieval churches, fountains, museums, castles and palaces.
In addition to the historic side of Rome, the city has a vibrant night life and thriving restaurants. You can spend hours and hours just sitting in street cafes during the summer months eating and drinking coffee and watching tourists and locals stroll by.
Venice
Venice is the famous city for lovers, but it's not just for lovers! Venice has something for everyone. It is a city built entirely on water in a lagoon and is unfortunately slowly sinking. It has many beautiful medieval and Renaissance palaces, museums and buildings as well as hundreds of bridges, including the famous Bridge of Sighs. Of course, unforgettable is San Marco's Place at the heart of Venice with its magnificent basilica.
Milan
Milan is one of the banking capitals of Europe and is extremely wealthy and affluent because of this and has been for hundreds of years. The best shopping in Italy can be found in Milan and it is full of busy businesspeople making their way about the city all day long. There are shops that sell anything you want, restaurants that serve anything you want. It has the La Scala opera house, which is the most famous in the world as well as the Duomo palace with a facade made entirely of decorated marble.
Naples
It's rumored that pizza comes from Naples and one of the most fun experiences is having traditional Italian pizza in a cafe in the city where pizza was invented. Naples is a port and is one of the most important cities in southern Italy. It has many ancient Roman buildings as well as medieval, Renaissance, Classical and modern ones.
Bologna
The city of universities with some of the oldest schools in the world and some of the most ancient buildings in the world too that are still standing. The University here was founded in the 13th century and is still thriving. It is the home of great writers such as Umberto Eco. The medieval center of Bologna is like something from a fantasy story, with its squares decorated with porticos.
Genoa
Genoa is an ancient port that was important for the northwest of Italy. It has a stunning aquarium, a historic port and a center that is said to be the largest medieval city in Europe, with hundreds of churches, castles and other ancient buildings.
After falling in love with Europe three years ago, Matt has since been back visiting Europe every year for months at a time. You can find more information on visiting Europe as well as traveling to Italy.

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A short guide to paestum - II

2011-12-31T14:45:00.000-06:00

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.
Besides that, in the Basilica, the echinus (a sort of astragal below the abacus, in the capitals) is lower than that of theTempleofNeptunethat has a milder sweep. Such characteristics (entasis, lower echinus) of the Dorinc style seem to express that the full weight of the upper structures rests on the columns. The cells of the two temples are also quite dif-ferent. The cell is the sacred room inside the temple, where the statue of the deity was kept. Though very little remains of the walls enclosing the cell, we can easily notice that the cell of the Temple of Poseidon was divided into three naves by two lines of columns, while that of the Basilica presents only a colonnade in the middle and therefore only two naves (as in the earliest Greek temples). It is interesting that the three naves partition, typical of the classical Doric style, has been inherited by the Christian churches. We see two altars rising out of theTempleofPoseidon, on the east side. The biggest one is Greek. The Romans cut it and built the smaller one in order to open a road leading to the Forum. A coat of white stucco (a mixture of baked plaster) covered the temples. There are still some traces left on the columns of theTemple of Neptune. The roofs consisted of wooden beams and terra cotta tiles. Because of the nature of such materials, the roofs went lost.
The walls of the town. From the ouside of the Basilica we can see a stretch of the southern side of the walls that surrounded the whole town. The walls were almost five kilometres long,15 metreshigh and 5-7 metresbroad. A deep moat full of water and 24 round or square watch-towers surrounded them. The walls were built on the edge of a pentagonal calcareous bank, perhaps in order to prevent them from being damaged by earthquakes.
Prenota una delle nostre guide turistiche a Pompei guide turistiche Pompei.
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About the Author

Daniele Davide, manager of Tredy Sas.
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Italian Travels Tips

2011-12-31T14:42:00.000-06:00

Image via WikipediaItalian Travels Tips
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.

Things to Remember
One of the things you should know is not all places allow picture-taking. Museums, especially, often retain sole rights to photograph their works. Flash photography is especially frowned upon as being disruptive.Also though Italy may be very tourist-friendly and known for fashion, it is generally considered rude to walk around town in bikinis, beach attire, short shorts, and skimpy outfits so always make sure you are properly dress when visiting certain areas of town.Also if you are hoping to find a dry cleaner in the Tuscan countryside, laundry facilities are hard to find outside large cities so plan ahead. Now if you plan on doing a lot of shopping in Italy know that returning or exchanging an item, even if it is flawed is uncommon in Italian stores.Now as to talk a little about one of the great things Italy is known for, its beaches. One thing Italy is know for is its beaches. It is common on beaches in northern and central Italy to see topless sunbathers, however it will most likely lead to stares and catcalls when done in the more conservative and traditional south. And remember that it is considered rude to walk around town in your swimsuit or beach attire.
Dining and Driving the Italian lifestyle.
One thing you will also always run across in Italy is the dining and of coarse driving in Italy. You should remember first hand is the tap water is sometimes heavily chlorinated, so it's best to drink bottled water. Also mineral water is available in all flavors: gassata (bubbly) naturale ( non-bubbly) and semi-gassata like Ferrarelle. Another thing is Spaghetti, virtually the national food of Italy, should be eaten with a fork rolled against the dish. Use a spoon if you must, but cutting your food up into little pieces is considered tacky. One thing that is popular in Italy is Cappuccino and 'cornetto'. It is the standard Breakfast in Italy so forget ordering sausages etc. Now when it comes to driving in Italy, rent a car for travel in the countryside, but walk or take a taxi while cities.. You must be 21 to rent an economy or subcompact car, and most rental companies make those under 23 pay by credit card. If you want a bigger car, you might have to show two credit cards. Parking spaces are often at a premium in crowded Italian cities. Fines for violations are high and strictly enforced and towing is common. As a result, it is best to leave your car in a guarded parking area.And please please don't forget that driving is on the right and right turns on red lights are forbidden. Seat belts and children car seats are compulsory. And just like in the USA in some states, using a cell phone while driving is also illegal.Penalties for drinking and driving are especially harsh, and the blood-alcohol in Italy is much stricter than in the United States. Last but not least, Italians like to drive fast and honk their horns a lot so tailgating is the norm. Great travel Guides
Living on Italian Time
Banks are open weekdays 8:30am to 1:30pm and sometimes for an hour in the afternoon.Most churches are open from early morning until noon, when they close for three to four hours, before reopening again, and close at 6pm. A few major churches, such as St. Peter's in Rome, are open all day. Many museums are closed one day a week, often on Monday. Pharmacies are generally open weekdays from 8:30am to 1pm and from 4-8pm, and Saturday mornings from 9am to 1pm.Most shops are open Monday-Saturday from 9am to 1pm and from 3:30 or 4pm to 7:30pm. Clothing shops are generally closed on Monday mornings. Barbers and hairdressers tend to be closed on Sunday and Monday. Some tourist-friendly stores in big cities such as Rome are open all day. Due to Italy being a Catholic country, many stores are closed on Sunday. Gas stations on major highways are usually open 24 hours. But most gas stations tend to be open Monday-Saturday, 7am to 7pm. August is the worst month to travel, because most of the nation is on vacation and everything comes to an almost standstill.We all know about Christmas, New Years, and Easter. But Italy celebrates other holidays as well: Epiphany (Jan. 6), Liberation Day (Apr. 25), May Day (May 1), Festival of the Republic (June 2), Farragosto (Nov. 1), All Saints Day (Nov. 1), Immaculate Conception (Dec. 8), Feast of St. Stephen (Dec. 26). Feast days for saints are also common in local cities as well. So if it seems like everything is extra quiet one day, it may be because everybody's taking the day off to celebrate! Hopefully this has been as helpful to you as it has been to me. Just remember the do;s and don'ts when traveling to Italy.
Greg Hostern
Italy travel
http://www.italy4real.com

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A short guide to paestum - I

2011-12-30T21:21:00.000-06:00

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.
Malaria had already spread all over the place and even the built-up area became marshy. Consequently the population gradually left the town. ln conclusion, such a disaster was caused by the deforestation of the nearby hills.
We must admit, however, that these magnificent ruins were preserved by marshes and woods, which prevented them from being destroyed and ransacked for many centuries.Paestumwas discovered just by chance in 1752, when they were building the modern road cutting the ancient town into two parts.
The Basilica — The Basilica is the oldest temple in Paestum. It was built around 550 B.C., in early Doric style. lt was called "Basilica" by mistake at the end of the 18th century, because the archaeologists thought it was a Roman building._We must remember that, for the ancients, the Basilica was a civil and not a religious building. Later on, however, an altar was discovered near it. It was situated outside the temple to enable the faithful to attend rites and sacrifices, since they were not allowed inside the temple. Which were regarded as sacrosanct: the house of the god. This altar and the small terracotta statues offered by the faithful to the deity and also found in this place, have allowed the experts to establish that the so called Basilica is in fact an ancient temple dedicated to Hera (Juno), worshipped as the goddess of fertility and motherhood.
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Daniele Davide, manager of Tredy Sas.
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The best Restaurants in London

2011-12-30T21:20:00.000-06:00

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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.

The best modern European restaurants in London are Arbustus and Launceston Place. The Apple tart at Launceston Place is simply delicious. If at Arbustus then ensure that you end your meal with divine île flottante (floating island). The food lovers can enjoy Britain's original cuisines here. The Gherkin has a restaurant on the fortieth floor that gives a three sixty degree view of the city making it an amazing dining experience.

If you want to splurge then the places you should visit for dining are Momo, The Wolseley and the Vijante. The costs can go up to hundred pounds but it's worth the experience. If you want an economic meal and yet want good food then the options are many, some of them are Beatroot, Banh Mi Bay, Rasa Sayang, etc.

Moving to the amazing night life in London, the city is known for its pubs. The ice bar is a frozen bar in London which is kept at a freezing temperature. Everything inside the bar is made of ice. The other popular pubs are Met Bar, The blue bar, The Rookery and Lady Ottoline. If in London do ensure that you visit these pubs and have a great time. Some pubs are open all night on weekends.

These are the various interesting facts bout dining in London. I have tried to mention most of the interesting options. I hope this article will help you plan your dining options during your stay in London. Hope you have a great time eating and partying in London.

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For Kensington hotels check out Simply Rooms and Suites. Set in the heart of London, newly designed Simply Rooms & Suites is one of the new Boutique London Hotels.