An alluring festival that pulls in thousands of spectators; a tradition that casts its spell on whoever crosses its path; a gala that celebrates the spirit of humans is none other than the Venice Carnival. Escape from the mundane everyday life and get drowned in the fantasy of this amazing festival!

Women sashaying in exquisite gowns and men clad in clever disguises, Venice Carnival provided the perfect scenery for passionate love affairs in the 18^th century. Recreating those days is not only for fun, but also to enliven Italian traditions with fervor every single year. This fascinating luxurious carnival rejoices the lure of forbidden.

In old-world days, people donned masks even when there was no carnival. The mysterious Venetian carnival masks offered a way for libertines to poke fun at the elite, sensualists to seduce innocent women, gamblers to engage in promiscuous activities without ever being caught. Rakish uses of masks spread like wildfire, forcing the government to issue endless restrictive laws.

Finally in 1608, the Venetian Council passed on an act that insists on wearing masks only at the Carnival, dinner parties, significant events and celebrations. Besides, masks were the solution for perfect disguise. Wearing masks let married women to mingle with male crowds without revealing their true identities. Mask-wearing created a sense of pseudo-equality among civilians. No one could segregate the rich from the poor during carnivals in Italy.  Venetian Carnival masks played a significant role in the life of the world-famous womanizer, Casanova.

On the other hand, the real reason behind the birth of the Venice Carnival is breaking-free from the cultural norms and regulations. This major Venice tourist attraction still symbolizes freedom in physical, mental and spiritual senses.

Artisans who made Venetian Carnival masks are called ‘Mascareri’ and their assistants are ‘Targheri’.  Venetian masks are made from clay molds. Craftsmen start by putting clay inside a wooden box with the model mask and overturn the plaster. This procedure results in a hollow plaster which will later be covered paper mache and adorned with intricate details. Mask-making requires undivided attention, patience and skills. There are so many types of masks such as Bauta, Larva, Moretta, Mute, Zanni, Pulcinella, Baroque and many more.

To take part in the vibrant and exhilarating Venice Carnival, plan your trip with secure and reliable travel organizers – PerilloTours.com!

If you are a hard core fan of pizzas and on a visit to Italy, then you have to get a taste of these delicacies from the authentic Italian pizzerias. These pizzerias prepare pizzas in a wood burning brick oven to give you the original taste. Since pizzas take their origin from Naples, any pizzeria in Naples can provide you a decent pizza. But the real mouth watering pizzas are available only in certain top pizzerias of Naples.

Da Michele on Via Sersale has been serving tasty pizzas for more than 130 years. Enjoy the two traditional favorites – the Margherita and the Marinara at their best. Though the variety might not be all fancy, you still get to taste delectable pizzas made out of natural ingredients.

If you are interested in having roadside Naples Pizzas, then ‘Il Pizzaiolo del Presidente’ on Via Tribunali is where you should stop. Visit of the US president, Bill Clinton changed its name from ‘Pizzeria Cacialli’ to ‘Il Pizzaiolo del Presidente’. They make amazing pizzas out of fresh ingredients.

Italy pizza recipes are a hot favorite among all. If you want to have margherita from the place where it originated, then visit Brandi on Salita S.Anna di Palazzo. Margherita is named after the queen Margherita who liked the pizzas made from mozzarella at this pizzeria.

For authentic Italian Pizzas there cannot be a better place than Di Matteo. The secret behind this delicious Naples Pizza is, the fresh home made products used in their recipes. Here, along with your pizzas you get a variety of other delicacies too.

Another famous local pizzeria ‘Trianon da Ciro’ is known for its sostanza and Gran Trianon. The other pizzeria is ‘Sorbillo’, which can also provide basic Naples pizzas. Next on the list is, Antica Pizzeria Port’Alba, it was started by a small vendor and now it is one of the top pizzerias in Naples.

Italian food culture attracts people from all over the world, especially their pizzas. If you want to taste these popular Italian foods, then plan your Italy travel tours with PerilloTours.com and double your love for pizzas.

Photo By : funstufftodoin.com

Make your next Italy vacation an underwater adventure by scuba diving in Italy. One of the best places to scuba dive in Italy is near Cinque Terre, a stunning collection of cliffside villages on the northwestern coast. Many visitors choose to hike or take the train through Cinque Terre and admire the water from above…but there is much to see below and this coastline is one of the best places to scuba dive in the Mediterranean.

Nearby Portofino is the gateway to Portofino Marine Park, a collection of underwater dive sites that have been protected since 1998. The strict protection means that  marine life you wouldn’t find elsewhere in the Mediterranean thrives here. You will see moray eels, scorpion fish, lobster, barracuda, octopus, tuna and groupers. You might even see some dolphins. Explore red coral and cave formations.

There’s a nearby dive shop  that has a license for dives here and there are suitable dives for all levels, from beginning to advanced scuba divers.  The most famous dive in all of the Mediterrean is in the marine park: “The Christ of the Abyss” is known the world over. Its a giant submerged bronze statue lowered in memory of Dario Gonzatti, one of the pioneers of scuba diving.

If you like diving wrecks, you will find the largest wreck in the world – the Milford Haven - right here. There are numerous other shipwrecks to scout out, from the 18th century to World War Two. For divers, the Cinque Terre and Portofino are not to be missed!

By Kathy McCabe

Ready to travel to Italy this year? Perillo Tours has been leading group trips throughout Italy since 1945 and ItalyVacations.com can custom design an independent itinerary for your dream Italy vacation!

Taking your first trip to Italy in 2012? Learn everything you need to know when you get your FREE copy of The First Timer’s Guide to Italy by ItalyTravel.com contributor Kathy McCabe.

Photo by Tim Sheerman-Chase, flickr.com

Are you a lover of architect? Do you love to visit places that are famous for their architectural work? Then, you must make a trip to Florence in Italy. Florence is one of the major Italy tourist attractions where the renaissance architecture began. Italian renaissance architects were responsible for the revival of Classical architecture of Greek and Rome and hence architecture flourished.

In Florence, you can see some of the famous public buildings, churches and houses constructed with Romanesque or gothic architecture. The gothic structures in Florence are made of native stones, which will definitely surprise you. Many of the world’s famous artists studied and worked in Florence that led to the creation of various masterpieces. Art and architecture flourished in Florence because of the financial support and patronage they received from the public. Renaissance people had a passion for architecture, which encouraged the architects and provided them livelihood. Given the amazing architecture of Florence, it would not be wrong to call it as one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

Florence has been a major place of tourist attraction. San Spirito church can be placed first in Italy tourist attractions. The liberal contribution made by the people was one of the major reasons to construct this San Spirito church. Its dome was designed by Brunelleschi and its internal painting still stands as an excellent example of art.

Cathedral, officially known as ‘Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore’, is the second most important place. It is one of the masterpieces of the Italian architecture. Its basic architecture was designed by Arnolfo di Cambio and it still stands as a monument that touches the skyline.

There are a lot more amazing works that add to the architecture of Florence. Places like Laurentian Library, Palazzo Strozzi, Pazzi Chapel, Ospedale Degli Innocenti etc. are a must visit places in Florence. The common features of the renaissance architecture are imparted in the construction of these monuments. The huge domes with paintings and decorations on the ceilings, long stained glass windows, clustered columns and spires on top of the building make them stand as a symbol of renaissance architecture.

Plan your trip to Italy with PerilloTours.com and get to know about the rich architectural heritage of Florence.

Photo By : imaginitaly.com

Honeymoon is the best time for a newly married couple to spend some valuable time together. For the most memorable time you need to settle on the right place. One such place that attracts couples is Calabria, a perfect romantic getaway in Italy, located at the “toe” of the Italian Peninsula. Its breathtaking beauty will spice up your most romantic holiday.

Destination Calabria – A scenic beauty

As love and lust is on the higher side of the newlyweds, a place like Calabria will serve as a paradise for them. You will not be able to resist this beautiful panorama of nature. Hold your partner’s hand and take a long walk along this landscape that is mixed with seashores and rugged cliffs.

Destination Calabria – Special activities

Exciting activities like skiing, scuba diving, hiking and more top the list of couple vacation ideas. Calabria is a hot spot for a host of adventurous activities. The mountains of La Sila serve as a popular skiing destination during the winters. On the other hand, warm seas of Calabria provide the chance to explore the flora and fauna along with some wrecks dating back to the Roman times. Alternatively, there are ample of places to hike in Calabria. Explore the mountains by foot with your partner. These mountains give you an opportunity to paraglide in the two-seater gliders and view the beauty of the coast along with your partner.

Ruins of the past – Calabria Italy Facts

Apart from the natural backdrop you get to see the old ruins of the Greek history and some rustic hamlets. Explore these underwater ruins near the shorelines, portraying the Greek heritage. The other must visit places include, the oldest city – Reggio, Gerace – a beautiful medieval city, Sybaris – a scenic village and many more.

Accommodation has never been a problem in Calabria. You can select your stay from the wide options like rental apartments, holiday inns and villas. Celebrate this Valentine’s Day with your partner in Calabria. Plan your Italy travel tours with PerilloTours.com and make your romantic getaway to Italy, a vacation to remember.

Photo By : iho-ohi.org

The big topic of conversation in Italy these past few weeks has been…snow. Last week, the Italian peninsula was covered in white stuff from Cinque Terre to the mountains outside of Naples. Many of these areas hadn’t seen snow in decades. And it snowed again this weekend. The monuments of Rome are covered in a white film, the canals of Venice are frozen over and there’s so many feet of snow in remote towns in the Apennine mountains that they’re having a hard time digging out.  

This is the winter to ski in Italy. Experts say many Italian resorts, particularly one of our favorites, Cortina d’Ampezzo,  are enjoying a ski season with “near-perfect conditions” including blue skies after fresh snow.  It isn’t too late to enjoy skiing in Italy this season: airfares in February and March are some of the lowest of the year and conditions are expected to continue to be good this winter.

Enjoy this fun snowy tour of Italy from The Weather Channel.

By Kathy McCabe

Ready to travel to Italy this year? Perillo Tours has been leading group trips throughout Italy since 1945 and ItalyVacations.com can custom design an independent itinerary for your dream Italy vacation!

Taking your first trip to Italy in 2012? Learn everything you need to know when you get your FREE copy of The First Timer’s Guide to Italy by ItalyTravel.com contributor Kathy McCabe.

Photo by msako23, flickr.com

Sicily, the island of awe-inspiring beauty, is not only the largest island in Italy, but in the Mediterranean Sea too. Sicily is as much famed for its cuisine and fascinating history, as it is for its breathtaking beaches. It has so many beautiful beaches, that a new traveller might find it really difficult to settle on the best beaches. So, here’s a small list of some of the best Sicilian beaches that should top the list of your travel itinerary.

• First on the list is Taormina. Also known as Lido Mazzarò, this wonderful beach can very well be called as the well-equipped beach in Sicily. It is a paradise for couples on a romantic beach vacation. The views of Mount Etna and the Ionian coast are simply spectacular. You can also view the Greco-Roman amphitheatre and the astounding sea in the background. With bars and restaurants lines across the border of the sands, one will have no trouble satiating their hunger or thirst.

• Next on the list is Mortelle. A Sicily vacation will be incomplete without a visit to this place. This is where you’ll find the best sands in the whole of northern Sicily. Situated 12km north of Messina, this island has several excellent beaches. Even the locals hit these beaches to beat the summer heat. In addition to the wonderful beaches, you have other attractions here, such as the Gothic Church of Santa Maria Alemanna, the National Museum of Messina, the rebuilt Norman Cathedral, and more.

• Spiaggia Sabbie Nere (Vulcano) certainly deserves a place in this list of Italy tourist attractions. Best in the Aeolian archipelago, it is also known as the ‘Black Sands’ beach. Situated on the island of Vulcano, this black sand beach will appear in stark contrast to the powdery white beaches that you are so used to. A boat excursion to reach this place will be memorable. You can also be a part of other exciting activities like hike to the top of the Gran Cratere. The view from the top is simply breathtaking.

Not just these beaches, Sicily is home to more such wonderful beaches. So, if you want to go on a romantic beach vacation to Italy, then make sure you book your trip with PerilloTours.

Ice-creams are loved by people of all ages and are one among those important things that Italy is famous for! Give your taste bud a sweet, semi-frozen treat with delicious Italian Gelato ice creams.

Gelato selling shops in Italy are called ‘Gelateri’ and can be commonly found in most of the tourist areas. Tubs of deliciously-flavored Italian Gelato ice creams are showcased in huge glass cases and as you watch them you will feel your tongue drool!

Italian Gelato recipes contain less fat content when compared to regular ice creams. With whole milk and sugar as the key ingredients, an Italian Gelato stands a lot higher in terms of taste and texture. Most standard Gelato recipes do not include egg and cream. Moreover, they are not as frozen when served. Instead they are semi-frozen and are best consumed on the same day as they are made.

Non-dairy gelato is known as Sorbetto and is made up of fruits and water. This form of ice cream is commonly found in the southern parts of the country and is a popular Italy food. Its texture varies according to the sugar content present. It is more pure than a regular Italian Gelato ice cream and is definitely worth a try.

Italian Gelato recipes are not really any different to that of the regular ice cream recipes. But the way they are made make them special. Unlike regular ice-cream making, the mixture is frozen while being stirred and this avoids the formation of ice crystals. Sugar content is kept under control for easy freezing and better taste. Finally, it is put into a freezer-proof container and allowed to freeze for two hours. The result is sumptuously delicious, semi-frozen Italian Gelato ice cream!

Italian Gelato ice cream is available in a myriad of flavors. The chocolate or ‘Cioccolato’ is the most preferred Gelato ice cream flavor and comes with endless variations such as dark chocolate, chocolate-hazelnut combination, milk-hazelnut combination. You can also ask for Gelato that is topped up with various nuts, fresh fruits and cream.

Italian Gelato is an important part of the Italy food culture and your Italy travel tour is a real flop, if you do not taste the genuine Italian Gelatos! Visit PerilloTours.com to plan a fun-filled trip to Italy.

Photo By : Penandfork.com

Have you ever traveled in water buses that give you a light floating feel? If no, then you are missing out something big in life! When you’re in Venice, you have no good reason to miss a ride on the Venice Vaporetto! The least expensive mode of travel in Venice, a Vaporetto or water bus is a flat decked boat that takes its passengers for sail along the Grand Canal.

An exciting trip in this water bus costs you around seven Euros and is valid for 1 hour from the time it is stamped. If you are planning to spend more time touring Venice, then a travel card can help you save money. Traveling in Venice water buses without a valid ticket can lead to heavy fines. If there is no ticket booth at the stop that you get in, ask the conductor for a ‘biglietto’ or ticket as soon as you board. It is also important that you validate your ticket before boarding a Vaporetto. Electronic cards or tickets can be validated by placing them on the electronic card reader and paper tickets can be validated by inserting them into the yellow stamping machine.

Major Venice Vaporetto routes used by tourists include number 1, 2, N, 41 and 42. The number 1 Vaporetto runs through the Grand Canal stopping at all the 6 neighborhoods. On the other hand, number 2 route takes you to the train station, Piazzale Roma, part of the Grand Canal, and Guidecca. Route N buses are night buses that follow number 2 route, whereas routes 41 and 42 connect you to the outside of Venice or the Murano Island. You might have to purchase a separate ticket if you want to board the Alilaguna lines that connect to the Venice airport.

Though all Venice water buses are lit with beautiful lights in the evening, the number 1 route gives you the most scenic experience. Even if you are out with a specially-abled person or a baby, you will still be able to enjoy the exciting Vaporetto trip as most of the Vaporetti are wheelchair and baby carriage accessible.

Just like the amazing Venice Vaporetto, Italy has many other attractions to offer you! Plan your Italy travel tours with PerilloTours.com and make it more comfortable and fun.

Photo By : Flickr.com

If you’re traveling to Italy in 2012, you don’t want to miss the following special museum exhibitions in Rome, Florence and Venice:

Rome:  Lux in Arcana: The Vatican Secret Archives Revealed  is the must-see exhibition in Rome this year. Over 100 original documents — spanning 400 years of Papal history — will leave the confines of Vatican City for the first time for display at The Capitoline Museums. The records are usually kept in Vatican Secret Archives, a highly secure building behind St. Peter’s Basilica. Some of the documents in the exhibit include an appeal by the English Parliament asking the Pope to annul Henry VIII’s marriage to Catherine of Aragon and items from the heresy trial of Galileo, whose scientific theories attracted the hostility of the Catholic Church. The Lux Arcana exhibit runs from March through September 2012. (Book your Rome vacation)

Florence: Palazzo Strozzi hosts Americans in Florence: Sargent and the American Impressionists March 3rd through July 15, 2012.  The exhibition explores  relationship American impressionist painters had with Italy, and with Florence itself, at the end of the 19th century and beginning of the 20th century. Numerous American painters came to Florence as part of as a part of a post-Grand Tour wave and  formed a tight community with other American and British artists and writers. Works on display will include those of John Singer Sargent, Mary Cassatt and James Abbott McNeill Whistler. (Book your Florence vacation)

Venice: Triangular shaped Punta della Dogana (the old customs house for Venice) separates the Grand Canal and the Giudecca Canal. Several years ago it re-opened as a center for contemporary art with a permanent exhibition of works from the François Pinault Collection. The exhibition In Praise of Doubt, which runs through the end of 2012,  includes works from the Pinault Collection that have never been on display before. In total, visitors can see  60 works by 20 contemporary giants including Maurizio Cattelan, Jeff Koons, Jeff Bauman, Adel Abdessemed, Marcel Broodthaers, Dan Flavin, Thomas Schutte and Charles Ray.  (Book your Venice vacation)

By Kathy McCabe

Ready to travel to Italy this year? Perillo Tours has been leading group trips throughout Italy since 1945 and ItalyVacations.com can custom design an independent itinerary for your dream Italy vacation!

Taking your first trip to Italy in 2012? Learn everything you need to know when you get your FREE copy of The First Timer’s Guide to Italy by ItalyTravel.com contributor Kathy McCabe.