Umbria lies smack dab in the middle of Italy. The countryside is unspoiled and dotted with medieval churches. Its fairly gentle terrain is composed of hills, valleys, and small mountains. Umbria is the only region of Italy with neither a seacoast nor a foreign border. But it has lakes, rivers, and even a waterfall. It is known as the green valley of Italy. In spite of this name, until a few decades ago Umbria kept losing population to the more highly industrial north. Its total population is about 830 thousand.
Umbria was settled by the Umbri, perhaps the first inhabitants of Italy. They were forced into the mountains by the Etruscans, who were conquered by the Romans and then the Lombards. The poet Dante considered it the most violent part of Italy.
Umbria is particularly known for pork, dried pasta, and both black and white truffles. It also produces specialty breads and a wide variety of vegetables and meats. Fish and eels from the Tiber River and Lake Trasimeno abound. Cheeses include Pecorino Toscano, reviewed below.
Umbria’s capital is Perugia, a beautiful medieval city with a population of 150 thousand. Among other things Perugia is known for chocolates and Italian as a second language classes. Another famous Umbrian city is Assisi, the home of St. Francis of Assisi.
Umbria devotes about 41 thousand acres to grapevines, it ranks 15th among the 20 Italian regions. Its total annual wine production is about 19.5 million gallons, giving it a 16th place. About 58% of the wine production is white, leaving 42% for red. The region produces 11 DOC wines. DOC stands for Denominazione di Origine Controllata, which may be translated as Denomination of Controlled Origin, presumably a high-quality wine, and 2 DOCG red wines, Montefalco Sagrantino and Torgiano Rosso. The G in DOCG stands for Garantita, but there is in fact no guarantee that such wines are truly superior.
About 30% of Umbrian wine carries the DOC or DOCG designation. Umbria is home to about thirty major and secondary grape varieties, about two thirds white.
Widely grown international white grape varieties include Chardonnay and Trebbiano. The best known strictly Italian white variety is Grechetto, used in the its flagship Orvieto DOC wines.
Widely grown international red grape varieties include Cabernet Sauvignon, Gamay, and Merlot. The best known Italian red variety is Sangiovese, now grown elsewhere such as in California.
Before we review the Umbrian wine and cheese that we were lucky enough to purchase at a local wine store and a local Italian food store, here are a few suggestions of what to eat with indigenous wines when touring this beautiful region.
Start with Zuppa di Lenticchie di Castelluccio, Castelluccio Lentil Soup, which with local bread can be a meal in itself.
Later try Porchetta alla Perugina, Roasted Suckling Pig with Wild Fennel, Rosemary, and Garlic.
For dessert indulge yourself with Serpentone delle Monache di Perugia, Nut and Fruit “Snake” of the Capucin Nuns.
OUR WINE REVIEW POLICY While we have communicated with well over a thousand Italian wine producers and merchants to help prepare these articles, our policy is clear. All wines that we taste and review are purchased at the full retail price.
Wine Reviewed
Lungaraotti Pinot Grigio 2004 12% about $12
I haven’t always been happy with Italian Pinot Grigio, or for that matter with non-Italian Pinot Gris. These wines often are weak. However, I thought that this particular Pinot Grigio was a fine wine for its price when it accompanied the right food. The sales literature suggested that this light-bodied, vivid, and balanced wine would be a great match for antipasti. My mistake was pairing it with non-imported antipasti, really more of a mediocre relish, which overpowered the wine. I later tried this wine with cold barbecued chicken in a moderately spicy Thai sauce and was quite pleased. Its citrus flavors really shone. I could taste this wine’s subtle complexity.
Pecorino Toscano is a sheep’s milk cheese that has been made in Tuscany and neighboring Umbria for thousands of years. Soft Pecorino Toscano is white with a tinge of yellow, while semi-hard Pecorino Toscano is pale yellow. It is moderately strong smelling and has a complex nutty flavor. I thought that it blended very nicely into the wine.
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About the Author
Levi Reiss has authored or co-authored ten books on computers and the Internet, but to be honest, he would rather just drink fine Italian or other wine, accompanied by the right foods. He teaches classes in computers at an Ontario French-language community college. His wine website is www.theworldwidewine.com . You can reach him at ital@mail.theworldwidewine.com.
Source: http://www.articletrader.com
Information and pictures about Italy, its history, monuments and events taken in the Peninsula with art exhibitions, theaters plays and concerts.
Thursday, December 09, 2010
Tuesday, November 09, 2010
Sunny Italy
A Memorable Getaway to Tuscan Archipelago, Italy
When you’re in the pursuit of spotting an Italian beach vacation, behold the grandeur of Elba Island. This island would surely hold your breath through its illustrious beaches and marvelous islands. The island of Elba dwells within Tuscany, Italy. This one of the most renowned archipelagos in Italy and this is one of the best destinations for the adventurous and nature lovers. Elba Island is the perfect getaway for families who plan to have a memorable vacation. With more than 50 beaches to choose from, Elba Island flaunts its fine white sandy seafronts. The island also has these atrocious rocky cliffs where you can showcase the adventurous person in you. This island is indeed breathtaking and overwhelming. Sightseeing is truly a rewarding experience in Elba Island. If you might just want to escape from the bedlam of city life, then Elba Island is the most preferred place to get lost to. And if you had realized that it’s high time to treat yourself calm and relaxing break, then head off to Elba Island. This will guarantee you an extraordinary beach vacation. The best part of this vacation is that the area is not too crowded with many tourists. You can fly to the island any time if you want a solace and serene vacation. This island is truly stunning.
Aside from its dazzling line of beaches, there are many activities you can indulge into. You might want to go hiking or mountain trekking from its luscious nature. Nature tripping is also recommended for this island has an exceptionally unique landscape and mountain features. These sites can take you into platforms overseeing the radiant sunset and the ravishing beaches of Elba Island. Also if you want to carry out some other activities, then go on cycling. This activity is one of the typical activities in the island. Through its possession of abundant oak woods, it is best to do cycling around the woods.
Then if you want to delight yourself and your family doing beach activities, the Elba Island does not disappoint you. You can choose from a variety of activities in the beach. You surely can’t spend one day to do all the activities. You can do water sports or games. You can also do sightseeing while sailing from the sun- drenched beaches. And if you just want to lie around fronting the beach, you just stare at the sparkling and calming beaches. You will surely experience peace of mind and rejuvenation. Night life in the Elba Island also has its options. You can party all night in clubs and enjoy the best cuisines the restaurants have to offer.
You can also do educational excursions in Elba Island. The island also has historical places. The island has museums and ruins which show the island’s rich cultures and traditions. The villas in Elba Island are one of the most visited places of attraction. These villas are uniquely and intricately made through the distinctive Italian architecture. Hotel accommodations also abound the Elba Island. It has a range of the most economical to the most luxurious places to stay while in the island. During the peak seasons, these hotels are relatively jam- packed. It is best to have your stay booked before heading off to the island. It is quite difficult to find some place to stay here because it is too far from cities or towns. The peak months are from May to September because tourists often want beaches during summer time. So go on and book a tour to Elba Island. It will surely be one of the most memorable beach holidays for you and your family.
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This article was posted by Enrico, italian Tour Operator and owner of several Hotel isola del Giglio as well as featured Hotel Marina di Campo resorts, providing easy online booking for your isola d'Elba vacanze in Italy.. Visit A Memorable Getaway to Tuscan Archipelago, Italy.
Source: http://www.articletrader.com
Saturday, October 09, 2010
Venice, Italy
Enjoy the Enchantment & History of Venice, Italy
by Roy WitmanOne of the most romantic cities in the world, Venice is primarily dependent on the water that intertwines throughout the town for transportation. You could easily spend days on end just sightseeing courtesy of a gondola. This is the only city in the world built entirely on water. As you look around, you’ll quickly notice an abundance of gondolas, but no cars! Filled with nightlife, Venice is famous for its masquerade parties. Take time to attend local festivals including the Venice Film Festival and the ever-popular Carnival Masquerade Ball. While you’re there, be sure to visit St. Mark's Square, the hub of the city.
St. Mark's Square
Early in the morning, St. Mark's Square is completely empty with the exception of those who clean this majestic wonder. Even then, in the quiet of the dawn, it is an awe-inspiring place to visit. An open-air square set before ancient domed architecture topped with numerous spires, St. Mark's Square is positioned on the Grand Canal by a gondola pier ("molo"). Its majestic Campanile (watchtower) takes center stage with a height of 314 feet. With the quiet crashing of the waves and the beautiful scenery, you could simply sit and stare for hours.
However, once the crowds rush in, the square is filled with sightseers who wander about, eat and feed the famous pigeons. But don't be content to sit outside in the square. Take the time to explore some of the buildings.
Basilica di San Marco
Best viewed early in the day (before the lines become too exasperating), Basilica di San Marco, also known as St. Mark's Cathedral, is simply stunning. Those visiting via cruise ship are advised to book the earliest tour possible at your excursion desk. Cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, offer a variety of tours departing at different times.
The exterior alone is exceptional, but the interior is not to be missed. With over 39,000 feet of gold mosaics and artworks by Italian masters Titian and Bellini, this church is spectacular.
Gondola Tours
Of course, no trip to Venice is complete without a romantic gondola ride. Check with your tour guide or the excursion desk of your cruise ship for details. Royal Caribbean, among others, offers day and evening gondola rides. These narrow, hand-painted boats maneuver through the canals, giving you a private tour of Venice up close and personal. If you're lucky, you'll also have the pleasure of a serenade!
Carnival Masquerade Ball
After a day of sightseeing, you might choose a change of pace. Get dressed to the nines and participate in one of Venice's most celebrated events: Carnival! Held in mid-February each year, many cruise lines put on their own versions of Carnival. If you're visiting Venice in wintertime, get in on the real thing. Otherwise, flirt with your neighbor onboard ship for an equally good time!
Curious, fun, enchanting and awe-inspiring, Venice is a city most never forget once they've experienced its wonder. When making your plans to visit, splurge! Take in as many of the sights as time allows. You'll cherish these memories forever!
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Roy Witman is Vice-President of Cruise Vacation Center at http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com offering the best deals including
European cruises. © 2007, All Rights Reserved
Source: http://www.articletrader.com
Thursday, September 09, 2010
Eating in Tuscany
Farm holidays in Florence are the real soul of Tuscany
Anyone who has ever read the book or watched the movie "Under the Tuscan Sun" has seen a wonderful snapshot of what the more rural portions of Tuscany have to offer. The traveler who seeks a relaxing pace and tranquil atmosphere will revel in it, as will any avid agritourist. The home like atmosphere of a bed and breakfast in the hills surrounding Florence will make you feel like you are one of the ex patriots.
The Tuscan country side is one of the limited regions that actually live up to the hype. Rolling hills that are green and filled with life year round make a backdrop that will make perfect photos for even an amateur photographer. The postcards and photos you have seen are not exaggerations, it really is that lovely.
Tuscany's soul can not be separated from it's stomach. Farming here is an art. A respect for time honored tradition and an insistence on the highest quality possible means that farming, especially small farms, are alive and well and thriving. Family owned farms that produce their own olive oil and their own wine dot the Tuscan landscape.
When you wake in the comfort of your bed and breakfast in Florence, the surrounding hills will call you. With the grey leaves of the stubby little olive groves hiding their fruit, the creeping vines of Sangiovese trained over so many years into their well ordered rows you will soon see why Tuscany is the top agritourism destination in the world. The people here live to eat and enjoy, and that can not but help to make for a fabulous vacation.
Sangiovese vines carry the lifeblood of the Tuscan soul. Spending your nights snugly in your bed and breakfast, Florence hills occupying your days and wine tastings rounding out the experience will show you exactly why red wine is not only good for your heart, but also for your soul.
Touring the countryside is a breeze here. Thousands of years of residence have evolved into small towns and villages being located within easy traveling distance of each other. In the matter of 15 or 20 minutes you can be in a small town that is having an amazing food festival or in an ancient family owned winery sipping wines that have been made the same way for centuries. And by the same families. Another short trip will take you to a world class restaurant nestled in the Florence hills. Back in the comfort of your bed and breakfast you can reminisce about the meal and the sparkling fireflies that lit the hills.
Vacation time spent in the heart of Tuscany will show you the depth of the Tuscan soul. The cultural appreciation for beauty, art and the art of the table is ingrained in the people. You can not help but come back from your time here not only refreshed and renewed, but with an increased appreciation for the soul enhancing love of all the simple pleasures in life. La bella vita lives here.
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Nicola Alessi writes articles about Tuscany accommodation and collaborates with many important online travel guide. He also works for http://www.poderecasalino.com , a comfortable bed and breakfast in the Florence surrounding located just among the Arno river and the Chianti hills.
Source: http://www.articletrader.com
Monday, August 09, 2010
Eat & live well the Italian way!
Nutrition
The Italian diet happens to be one of the healthiest in the world.
Eat & live well the Italian way!
The nonstop marketing efforts of numerous carbohydrate diets have many people swearing off pasta and running from bread. In reality, carbohydrates are an essential macronutrient that provides you with the energy you need and a critical nutrient for your nervous system. Rediscover the wonderful health benefits of pasta in combination with fibrous carbohydrates and delicious lean proteins. Simply put, learn to eat the Italian way for a well-balanced approach to pasta!
Anyone who has traveled in Italy knows that the Italian lifestyle is defined by a love of good food, a passion for flavor and a vibrant lifestyle. But you don't have to vacation in Rome to live "la dolce vita"-eating and living Italian style is a way of life that can be enjoyed anywhere, all year-round.
Though Italian culture emphasizes eating for enjoyment (notice you don't meet many Italians on fad diets?), the Italian diet also happens to be one of the healthiest in the world; incorporating fresh, wholesome foods that are rich in nutrients and low in unhealthy fats.
To help guide people on how to eat and live like an Italian, Barilla-the Italian food brand-partnered with a team of nutritionists to create a new model that demonstrates the Italian way of eating, as well as the various components that go into creating a perfectly balanced pasta meal. It's also worth noting that this model of eating fits well within the parameters of the new Dietary Guidelines for Americans and the My Pyramid Food Guidance system, so anyone who considers Italian to be their favorite cuisine can feel good about eating the Italian way while benefiting from a healthy diet and lifestyle.
Sure, there are still people who think of pasta as fettuccine smothered in fat-laden cream sauce. But traditional pasta meals are fresh, light and easy to put together with nutritious, seasonal ingredients. Pasta is a perfect delivery system to get many healthy foods in your diet-such as a variety of colorful vegetables, tomato sauce, olive oil, fish and lean cuts of poultry. And pasta is low in sodium and cholesterol-free, as well as a good source of thiamine, folic acid, iron, riboflavin and niacin.
Pasta also ranks among children's favorite foods-especially when they can help prepare the meal. "Cooking pasta together is an easy way to get your family eating and communicating better," said Lynn Fredericks, author of Cooking Time is Family Time. "Let kids choose the pasta shape, help chop vegetables, set the table-cooking is a lot more fun when everyone pitches in."
Start experimenting with different variations on pasta meals to keep dinnertime interesting and healthy. For starters, try these recipes for typical Italian dishes that offer exceptional taste and nutrition. For many more authentic pasta meal recipes as well as tips on eating, cooking and living the Italian way, visit the new Barilla America website at www.barillaus.com.
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Pete Piranio, BS, CSC, Owner of Fitness Together and Piranio Fitness Systems, Inc is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, from the National Strength and Conditioning Association.
For more information, check our www.fitnesstogether.net.
Don't forget to request your Free DVD and information packet at:
http://fitnesstogether.net/milwaukee-woodbury-mn-personal-training-programs.html
Source: http://www.articletrader.com
Friday, July 09, 2010
Milan with your family
Holiday to Milan with family
Milan attractions extend far beyond its fame as a fashion capital; there are many museums, cathedrals and galleries to visit, as well as the Milan Aquarium and the Orto Botanico di Brera gardens. The best time for sightseeing in Milan is spring or autumn, when the weather is warm and sunny. Milan represents a unique amalgamation of contemporary lifestyles in the backdrop of some of the most amazing historic creations. It is among Italy's most revered destinations with its ancient cathedrals that now border along stylish shopping boulevards and never-ending rows of rest-o-bars. Milan has many places that are worth a visit.Milan is one of the bigger cities of Italy, the second one after Rome. Milan is the economic capital of Italy: the city host's the Italian Stock Exchange and in its hinterland you can find the bigger industries of the country. Milan is known all around the world for its fashion and design: the city is famous for its fashion houses and shops that you can find in famous streets as Via Montenapoleone and in the Gallerie Vittorio Emanuele.
Milan is famous for its lifestyle, night-life, as a paradise for shopping and Opera: in Milan you can admire the famous Italian theatre La Scala the temple of opera. The theatrical season of La Scala is the most important event in the cultural life of Milan and there you can see ballets, operas and classical music concerts.
The Prices have reached so high in recent months. So much so, that many families are missing out on family holidays all together. These holidays are an important opportunity to create memories as a family that will sustain you all for a lifetime to come. The memories can't be replaced and when you miss out on these special moments together they cannot be made up at a later date. Holidays are a time when the family spends time together without the distraction of neighbourhood children, work, and/or school to get in the way. Watch Milan holiday reviews and by the peoples like you to decide which are the most worthy places to visit and even watch Milan hotel video reviews before booking hotel by this you can get good idea of rates and services.
In order to create even more fun memories with the family, be sure to check out Idropark Fila, a water park and Euro park Idroscalo, which is an amusement park. Of course, if you want to give your family a little education and culture to bring home with them, holidays to Milan provide access to 25 museums, 3 major libraries, and countless sites of historic significance.
Believe me Milan is really a great city to visit that is also great for a mix of shopping, culture, religion and much more. I can tell you a lot more about it but I think the best thing is that you go look for yourself. Almost 4 million people will welcome you in the province of Milan. Beside these, there are many tourists attractions, to be explored by the tourists, which add fun and excitement to the trip of its visitors. Have a memorable trip to Milan.
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Harjeet, an Indian -born mass-market novelist who developed a successful formula with such bestsellers as Hotel, Airport, Holiday destinations. He wrote several articles for the top travel and hotel video and picture reviews related websites http://www.hotelly.com/
Source: http://www.articletrader.com
Wednesday, June 09, 2010
Outlet stores
4 Easiest Ways To Find A Local Retailer
Retailing is the process which includes selling of goods or merchandise products from one particular store to various customers. All those who are involved in the retailing business, are known as retailers. Retailers are involved in making bulk purchases of goods or products from importers or manufacturers, either directly or through wholesalers to sell them in smaller quantities to their customers. Retailers vary according to the type of product they sale. Thus, extensive search is often required to find out which retailer will provide you with optimum services.
Different ways through which one can make the search for best retail outlets are:
• Market Survey, Customer references, Personal visits
A good market survey is a very positive way to find a local retail outlet. Retail joints or shops are one stop destinations to shop conveniently. While shopping from one of the well known retail joints, you can be guaranteed to get products at best prices. Hence, prospective customer's can always take a tip or two from the regular customer's about the quality of products, logistic services, customer management techniques of a particular retailer. Personal visits to the store, going through the product categories, billing services, promotional offers offered on new products can help you choose the perfect retailer. Often, the fame of the retailer depends upon the variety of products that he offers to his customers. A wide product range often builds a substantial customer base.
• Web directories
The Internet is the best possible way to find a host of good retail stores and local business joints quickly. Web directories listed on the Internet provide detailed information regarding good local retailers proficient in selling quality goods. Through added features like featured and popular listing, all the details related to the local retail outlets can be gathered within minimal time. The opportunity to visit the official websites of the retailers often generate a confidence in the customers. More personalized details can be gathered from the websites and the choice can be made perfectly.
• Business listings in search engines
Information regarding various local businesses, retail outlets and stores can be availed from business listings in search engines. The famous one's like Google Local, Yahoo Local help in narrowing the search and getting the perfect details.
• Phone book
Phone book or the telephone directory, is yet another place from where one can get information regarding different retail stores. A telephone directory provides the contact numbers of the retailers according to the geographical area or the category of the product. Since the contact numbers are provided, the user can always make a call to inquire about the availability of the product, rate, location, home delivery services and other details required for the deal to take place.
These are therefore some of the quick tips that helps in locating a good local retailer.
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Christian Lange is a business marketer experienced with vertical markets and the web. His expertise comes from over 15 years of local businessexperience in addition to 6 years of web programming. Some of his accomplishments include developing methodologies to use PHP and SEO effectively.
Source: http://www.articletrader.com
Sunday, May 09, 2010
British Vacation in Malta
British Tourists Fly Home To Malta for Their Vacation
Malta has been a holidays destination for British tourists for years. Many Brits return year after year because it suits them for a variety of reasons. With so many repeat visitors to the island, it speaks well for the familiar sense of welcome and comfort that greets tourists year after year.With its endless beaches and relaxed lifestyle, Malta is an ideal holiday destination. The largest of a group of seven islands off the coast of Italy in the Mediterranean, Malta is the essence of holiday pleasure.
It offers a luxurious retreat from your everyday hustle and bustle. If you're looking for an affordable vacation with satisfying accommodations and long lazy days on a sun drenched beach instead, Malta will definitely fulfill your expectations.
British tourists fly into Malta's modern Luqa international airport. With its emphasis on service and safety, visitors' first introduction to Maltese courtesy sets the tone for their holiday.
Equally welcoming is the stately arrival in the port of Valetta's Grand Harbour for those who prefer to combine a land and sea vacation. More than 250 cruise ships weigh anchor in Grand Harbour in the course of the year. But whether you arrive by air or sea, it's difficult to not feel the sense of excitement at the opportunity to discover all that Malta has to offer
The residents of the island always seem to put their best foot forward for their visitors, regardless of where they come from. But there does seem to be a special rapport between British tourists and residents of the island.
This has been particularly true since tourism dropped off this year because of the downturn in most world economies. Still, British tourists who have been visiting the island for years and years continue to return for their Malta holidays
While the native language is Maltese, almost all of the residents also speak English, the second language spoken throughout the islands.
Brits can also feel at home while driving about the island. Maltese rules of the road dictate that motorists drive on the left side, just as in Britain.
The list of things to do in Malta, besides just relaxing on the beach or by a pool, is extensive. If your ideal holiday includes exploring the cities with their stunning architectural delights, you won't be disappointed. The combination of Roman, Byzantine and Mediterranean influences have created an unforgettable city landscape. With a distinctive bus service that carries both tourists and locals throughout the city, you can get around easily without the bother of driving.
Malta is steeped in history, as one might expect on an island that has been inhabited for literally thousands of years. Beginning as far back as 100 B.C., the Romans ruled the island for about 600 years. They were followed by the Byzantine Empire and periodically by Muslim insurgents. All of these distinct cultures left their marks on the island.
The range of accommodation throughout the island, as well as in other favorite tourist destinations including Ibiza, Lanzarote, Corfu and Gran Canaria, is as varied as the desires of tourists. With four and five star hotels offering the best in luxurious comfort, and mid-range and economy hotels, tourists can certainly find a venue that suits their comfort zone. Then too, there are a number of villas throughout the island that are well sought after by repeat visitors looking for a more private vacation experience.
The Mediterranean island also offers a range of culinary experiences for tourists. Brits have no trouble finding restaurants whose menus offer selections that make diners feel like they are right at home. At the same time, available cuisine experiences are as varied as one would find anywhere. As with other dimensions of Maltese life, food reflects the influence of a variety of cultures, with something for every taste.
It's little wonder that British tourists continue to return to Malta for their holidays. It is home away from home, but with the luxury of not having to spend the best part of the day in the office. At the same time, there is the promise of extraordinary sights and sounds in a setting that is both familiar and exotic - home from home.
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More information about Malta and her airport with cheap Malta flights is available via yourmalta.com
Other areas covered by the Malta guide includes the climate and a 5 day Malta weather forecast
Source: http://www.articletrader.com
Friday, April 09, 2010
Learing italian in Italy
Italian language classes help you speaking correct Italian
If you have always wanted to learn to speak Italian, and learn to speak it correctly, the best possible way is to take Italian language courses in Italy. Immersing oneself in a new language is key, as anyone who has spent time in a country where a different language is spoken is aware. Adults will get even more benefit out of studying Italian in Italy than children do because they need more repetition to pick up language skills. You will also get the benefit of having a cultural back drop to learn the language in.
When you have made plans to enroll in an Italian language school you get the benefit of certified instructors. Much in the same way that many native speakers of English do not have perfect grammar, the same holds true in Italian. When you have the benefit of the screening done by the Italian language schools in Florence, Milan, Rome and other large cities, you know you will not be learning the grammatical errors that are the English equivalent of confusing is and are.
The instructors in the Italian language courses will include plenty of idiomatic expressions. In addition to being constantly used, just as they are in English and all other languages you will enjoy seeing how many of them are closely related, such as "water under the bridge" being roughly the same as "passed water." Some of the expressions are unique to Italy and its history, such as "in the mouth of the wolf" equaling "break a leg." When you are able to use these naturally when you are speaking you will start to feel like an Italian in Italy, and not like a tourist.
The joys of the culture are another reason to take an Italian language course in Florence or any other food or art oriented city in Italy. The schools will virtually always have side excursions for nominal fees that expose you to some of the best aspects of Italian life. Food and wine lessons, cooking authentic dishes, traveling to local beaches and museums all are readily available. With the benefit of a bilingual guide and prearranged transportation
But, the biggest advantage of attending an Italian language school in Italy rather than in an English speaking country, is immersion. When your lessons are followed by a trip to the local bar for a caffè, you get to practice with the barista. At night you can take the menu in both English and Italian and learn more of the words for your favorite foods. A trip to the local soccer stadium for a game will teach you much more "colorful" language. Listening to both the radio and the TV will help your pronunciation and hone your listening skills.
Within a surprisingly short period your stay in Italy will have you reasonably fluent. Practicing your Italian language skills daily is easy. Italians are friendly and welcoming as a rule and taking the lessons you learned during the day and practicing in your local pub or restaurant every night will soon have you speaking with your hands and giving two cheek kisses when you greet your friends.
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Tiziana Cardelli works as an instructor for http://www.europass.it , one of the most respected Italian language schools in Italy that offers group courses and private lessons, or a combination. Tiziana is a college educated Italian native speaker who teaches an Italian language course in Florence.
Source: http://www.articletrader.com
Tuesday, March 09, 2010
Winter sports and health care ideas
Val di Fassa and Carezza, Italian Ski Resort
If you've ever wanted to ski in the Dolomites section of the Alps in Italy, then Val di Fassa and the Carezza Italian ski resort may answer your craving. The panoramic vistas of the mountains-stretching from Belluno and Trento and from the Adige River by the Val Pusteria (valley) east to west-make this one of the most charming ski areas in all of Italy. The area is so great for skiing because of all the zones you can have access to when skiing. The Val di Fassa skiing area incorporates the Fassa to Carezza ski areas. The lifts and slopes in all of these is part of the Dolomiti Superski Area.
The heritage remains intact; however, the Italian and German influences have been strong for decades and will remain the dominant language and culture for the future. For now, though, visitors can find plenty of history as far back as two hundred years ago. It's not impossible to walk or ski past some of the oldest architecture in northern Italy.
Val di Fassa and Carezza offer some serious skiing. If you combine the Tre Valli's ski and Carezza ski areas, the size goes up to nearly 10 km above Alba and over 30 km above Moena. If you buy the right ski pass, there are over 200 kilometers of skiing in and around Val di Fassa, though this becomes more sizable if you include other accessible ski resorts in the area. If you buy the Dolomoti Superski ticket, you'll have more skiing than can possibly be done in a week or two.
In order to access the 200-plus lifts in the Val di Fassa-Carezza ski zone, you'll have to ride all 60 lifts. When the snow refuses to fall, there are plenty of snow cannons heaving artificial snow on all the interlinked ski runs. The other valleys in the area, such as Arabba, Val Badia and Val Gardena, give easy access to the whole Sella Ronda circuit. In order to complete this ski circuit, you'll have to start from the villages of Canazei or Campitello. Though most of these slopes are less than 2,000 meters, you'll have plenty of fabricated snow making your ski holiday a blast no matter the weather.
The skiing in Val di Fassa and Carezza include all the normal black, blue, red and green runs. In Carezza ski resort alone, you can find minimum of 30 km of pistes. The highest lift drops you off at 2350 meters with the lowest at just 1200 meters. Even so, the max vertical in the Carezza ski zone is 1150 meters. Additionally, there are all sorts of ski tours in the area, not limited to the somewhat famous Four Passes Tour, the Trevalli Tour, The SkiTour Panorama and Great War Tour. It's humanly possible to ski from various villages on a different tour each and every day of a six-day ski pass and never see the same scenery twice.
The ski passes in the Val di Fassa and Carezza Italian ski area are not as imposing as one might think for Alp skiing. The season starts a bit later than others, with pre-season skiing usually ending on December 23rd. A six-day ski pass will cost one adult around €150 (€100 child). The high season commences on December 24th with prices going up about 20-30%. The high season prices begin at about €185 for an adult (€130 child) and end on January 6th. Normal season prices start again afterwards at €160 (€115 child) and end for another round of high season prices on the first of February; this high season ends mid-March with one more session of lower regular season prices. All these prices take into consideration that you will buy a six-day individual ski pass. (A full season ski pass will cost about €440 per adult and €150-€300 per child.)
The entire Val di Fassa ski area includes some great out-of-the-way ski and snowshoeing destinations. If, for example, you like cross-country skiing, it's very easy to get piste's maps upon your arrival to the Carezza ski resort. If you'd like to snowboard, there are plenty of places located throughout the ski region, though you may have to find ones in other nearby ski areas. Some runs have night skiing, using floodlights to light the slopes for 24-hour ski service. Additionally, the nightlife in the area includes all the favorite apres-ski venues, from bars to restaurants, pubs to clubs, health spas to discotheques, the chances of finding something on or off slope that you'll enjoy are guaranteed.
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O.B.S. company is currently working on Val di Fassa skiing project. It represents possible Val di Fassa accommodation and activities during Val di Fassa winter vacations in Italy.. Visit Val di Fassa and Carezza, Italian Ski Resort.
Source: http://www.articletrader.com
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Directory for tourists
In the year 2010 does a website directory something to say? With all people using search engines where is the need for a directory listing websites talking about Italy?
No need for the web but the owner is enjoying it, so let him list websites for tourists looking for informations about Italy and let's see what happens!
No need for the web but the owner is enjoying it, so let him list websites for tourists looking for informations about Italy and let's see what happens!
Tuesday, February 09, 2010
Sardinia, Italy: a golfing idea
Your Next Holidays in the Emerald Coast of Sardinia, Italy
If you are planning on a vacation in the Mediterranean, you should consider going to its second largest island, Sardinia. Sardinia holidays will let you experience nice, balmy, and fresh Mediterranean air, exotic beaches, amazing and cool archaeological places, and a great selection of hotels and flight packages that will fit all kinds of budget.The nickname for Sardinia, the ‘Emerald Coast’, did little justice to the island’s pristine beaches which are popular tourist destinations among visitors of the island.
Cagliari is the capital of Sardinia and is also considered one of the island’s gateways. Here you will find the beach which is popular for its white sand and among sand castle builders, the attractive Poetto Beach. There are many archeological, historical, and world heritage sites in Cagliari. Sardinia holidays will let you soak in the place’s history and culture by bringing you back to a very old period in history by looking at the tombs made around the thirteenth century BC, walking along the Roman Amphitheater built from big slabs of rocks, and listening to music concerts in the cool, night breeze of summer.
Cagliari has a touch of Spanish. With its Pisan towers, Spanish castles, patios lined with flowers and azulejo-like ceramics display, it is not hard to imagine you are in Spain rather than Sardinia.
Beach bums love Sardinia because of its appealing, pristine beaches. You can go to expensive and luxurious Chia if you have the money. It has many sparkling beaches with white crystal-like sand along the shore and you can also enjoy an 18-hole golf course if you love playing golf. This place offers elegant, luxurious places to stay.
Another famous place for beachgoers in Sardinia is the Villasimius resort. It is located near a marine park and has many beautiful baches and charing almond groves. You can also visit Margherita di Pula for its great beaches and Alghero for its amazing Catalan-inspired architecture and shops where you can splurge your pocket money for souvenirs and other great finds.
Moreover, Sardinia holidays could mean visiting churches and cathedrals. These are other structures that you can find in Cagliari, specifically around Castello and the Marina neighborhoods. There are the Cathedral and churches such as the Purissima church which dates back from the 16th century, Santa Croce church, the Santa Maria del Sacro Monte di Pieta church, San Giuseppe church, the Gothic-Catalan-styled churches of San Sepulcro and Saint Eulalia, and the Baroque churches of Santa Rosalia and S. Antonio Abate. You can also find the old City Hall, the Archbishop’s Palace, and the Palazzo del Vicere around this area.
If you are into visiting museums, you can enjoy the Citadella dei Musei or Citadel of Museums in English and also the National Archaeological Museum where you will be amazed by the different artefacts such as ceramics, statuettes, Roman sarcophagi, Punic jewelries, Phoenician tombs’ designs and decorations, and jewelry made from gold as old as the Medieval period. You can also visit Anatomical Wax Collection, National Art Gallery, and Siamese museum.
Stampace area is the place to be if you love archeological sites. It has the 2nd century Amphiteather, the Grotta della Vipera, and the Tigellio Villa.
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This article have been provided by Robert, italian experienced travel consultant providing Alberghi Sardegna accommodations and making available online help to select best Sardegna Hotel destinations for your Sardinia holidays in Italy.. Visit Your Next Holidays in the Emerald Coast of Sardinia, Italy.
Source: http://www.articletrader.com
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