Museums To Visit In Florence, Italy

Florence museums are known around the world to house some of the world's greatest masterpieces by the masters of each era of the art world. Trends in painting and sculpture have set the pace for others and made times in history immortal. The art work of Florence tells the tales of the Birth of Christ, His crucifixion and resurrection. It tells of fashion trends and how the world viewed beauty. Each element of the world's history has been captured in the art found in the museums and galleries of Florence.

The Uffizi Gallery

Perhaps one of the most well known galleries in Florence the Uffizi is home to the Botticelli's Birth of Venus. The list of artists reads like a who's who of the greatest and includes Da Vinci, Rembrandt, and Rubens.

The Accademia

At the Accademia you will find the world famous David by Michelangelo. It also home to a large collection of Renaissance paintings, but is better know for the sculptures of Michelangelo including the Palerstria Pieta.

The Baptistery

The Baptistery is so old its date is not really known, but it is understood to be one of the oldest monuments in Florence. The exterior façade houses three arches that are adorned with sculptures and marble decorations. The doors are pieces of art in and of themselves. They are gilded in bronze and date back to the 14th and 15th century. Panels from the original dome have been removed and restored and are now housed at the Museum of the Opera del Duomo.

Gallery of Modern Art

Florence is so well known for its Renaissance era works that many people overlook the fact that the Gallery of Modern Art houses 18th, 19th and 20th century works that are modern by comparison in a city so old. The museum is located on the second floor of the Pitti Place. Here you find familiar works by Cezanne, Gauguin, and Grassi and others who adopted the style and techniques of French artists. Equestrians will particularly enjoy the works of sculptor Marino Marini.

The Horne Museum

Named after the English art collector Herbert P. Horne, this museum blends art with a history of life during the Italian Renaissance. The furnishings and accessories along with the architecture itself are a reflection of this rich era. Artwork ranges from the 14th to 17th centuries and includes pieces from Cafaggiolo, Urbino, and Orvieto.

The Silver Museum

This museum houses an interesting collection of objects from the various dynasties ranging from the Medici through the Lorraine. There is great diversity in the pieces of jewellery, gems, semi-precious tones and various art objects. These are all from eras in time when a rich life and extravagance were the norm. One of the most valuable pieces housed here is a collection of vases by Lorenzo the Magnificent.

This small sprinkling of museums only touches the surface of possible historical sites in Florence. Florence is home to more than 50 museums, galleries, or architectural wonders that make this city a place one could visit for weeks and still not take it all in.

Article Source: http://www.articlemarketing.org

Find articles on minor concussion and bone density screening at the Knowledge Bin site.

Learn Italian In Italy

There are lots of ways to learn a language, but nothing can beat actually visiting and studying in the country where the language is spoken. Daily immersion in the language and culture is the key to gaining proficiency in a language. So where better to learn the Italian language than in Italy! Italy is a beautiful and diverse country with friendly people, fantastic food and an astonishingly rich cultural heritage.

For anyone who hasn't realised, Italy is a country rich in history, beauty, romance and style. It's also a country where good taste in fashion and food abound. Italians take an immense, and justifiable, pride in their national assets, and often refer to their country as the 'bel paese' or 'beautiful country'. Italy is among the oldest and most fascinating European countries, with art and architecture are second to none. Whether you choose to explore Italy by foot, by gondola, or by Vespa, the journey is breathtaking! To appreciate 'la dolce vita' fully, knowledge of the Italian language is essential, and there is no better place to learn than right in the midst of Italian life.

Italian language schools are located throughout Italy, from world-famous Venice and Milan in northern Italy to historic Taormina and Otranto in the south. Choice of location is one of the most important factors in deciding which language school to attend. Without a doubt, time spent outside the language classroom is at least as important as time spent in class. In larger cities, language programs typically emphasise amenities and activities but, depending on the size of the program, can neglect individual student attention. While there may be no shortage of cultural activities and museum visits, intimate cultural experiences are more likely to occur in smaller towns and villages. It is also much easier to fall back on speaking English in large cities, which of course defeats your original purpose entirely!

Throughout Italy, English is less spoken in smaller towns and villages than in cities. In such locations, it is almost impossible not to speak the language you’re there to study. Generally, people in the more rural areas of Italy will be quite honored that you’ve chosen to learn Italian in their home town and will be more welcoming, making it easier to establish lasting friendships and feel right at home.

The type of Italian language program you choose will of course be determined partly by your specific needs. There are many different types of program offered by language schools in Italy, including general Italian, Italian for business, Italian for academic studies, and Italian for art courses, music, design and culinary arts.

Whichever program you choose, there are several features to look for which are shared by all good programs: flexible, communicative instruction methodologies, a friendly atmosphere, personal attention, enthusiastic and qualified teachers, small groups. Depending on your requirements, the program should also provide a language qualification recognised by national and international colleges and universities.

In summary, to get the most out of an Italian language program in Italy, look for schools with small groups, qualified native-speaking teachers and programs providing plenty of individual attention. Cultural programs including excursions and activities are important, but they should not substitute for real language learning which occurs best in smaller groups and more intimate contexts. Whatever happens during your time in Italy, the most important thing is that you thoroughly enjoy the language learning experience! You will learn much better if you are happy with your program and enjoying yourself!

Article Source: http://www.articlemarketing.org

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Basilicata: a small and precious pearl in the south of Italy

Towns are rich of history, monuments, art and archeology, for example.. Metaponto bring us testimonies of the stone age and the wreckage of Greek ancient, "Stones" of Matera, the castles of Federico II at the benedettine abbeys. Places where the time has stopped, where the traditions are founded on a warm welcome of the people.

Basilicata has one short coastline on the Tyrrhenian Sea and another of the Gulf of Taranto in the Ionian Sea to the south-east. The region covers 9,992 km² and in 2001 had a population of about 600,000 inhabitants. The regional capital is Potenza. The region is divided into two provinces: Potenza and Matera.

Potenza and its province is immersed between a flat zone and fascinating muontains thare are also defined the "Dolomites lucane". For this there is not a best period to visit these zones: the winter and abundant snowfalls that in the last years covered the adjacent mountains give back picturesque the landscapes while in summer the magnificent colors that put on the hills and the meadows do that also this season is perfect period to be able to stay.
The province has splendid monuments to visit, between which the historical center of Potenza characterized from the old town and Via Pretoria called also " lounge" of Potenza, as there are numerous shops, pastry shops and coffee that are attractions for meetings and for strolled and finally the castle of Lagopèsole to rectangular plant with walls to bugnato

Matera is a unique and charming town, rises laid to a fissure in which were dug in the deep rock caves that had been ancient residences. These are called Sassi of Matera and have inspiring poets and writers among which Carlo Levi in his romance Christ has stopped to Eboli and were evocative scenery for the film "The Passion" of Mel Gibson. In the course of centuries, until to arrive to XIX century, Matera was remodelled from numerous rich proprietors that outlined the line of boundary between the high and low part of the town. A visit deserve the Castle Tramontano, raised in XV century and ever finished, the Cathedral of XIII century, of rchitecture romanico-pugliese more time remaked, the Church of San Francesco, of XIII century and the Nationa Museum Domenico Ridola that preserve reports from the age of the bronze to the roman period. To little kilometers from the town deserve a visit the Park of the rocky churches, characterized from natural caves that testify the presence of Greek and Latin community. The cusine has a lot in common with the culinary traditions pugliesi; in fact the typical dishes are the broad bean and beets and lamb to the mushrooms, while as regards the sweets to taste are the "cicirata", small marbles fried and covered of honey and the cakes of cheese.

About the Author

Lara Malerba is Content Manager for ZeroDelta S.r.l., an italian web agency and content provider. Lara is creator of content and structure of Your Travel Guide to Italy

Source: Article Bazar

Romantic Holidays For Two in Italy

Romantic Holidays For Two in Italy

By Barrie Le Gall

Just the idea of traveling to the country of Italy brings up all kinds of romantic ideas. From the white sandy beaches to the bustling fast paced cities, taking a romantic holiday for two in Italy is a wonderful idea. Where the two of you choose to go is purely up to you, and depends upon your likes and dislikes.

Being romantic has different meanings, and its meaning can vary from one person to another. Romance can mean candlelight dinners for two or just taking a quiet walk along the seashore. Not all of us like the idea of dressing up and going out for a fancy dinner, but for all tastes and budgets there are a great deal of romantic things to do in Italy.

One romantic idea is to travel into the Italian countryside to local villages to eat, drink good wine and shop at little distinct shops along the way. Beautiful villages welcome the tourists with an entire host of things to do. Staying at a small bed and breakfast, taking quiet long walks and enjoying a private dinner for two can all be had in the Italian countryside.

If you want to have a romantic time while enjoying the water and sandy beaches, there are many areas along the Italian coastline. On the Italian Rivera, there are large metropolitan cities where people can enjoy an active nightlife, and spend their day at the beach. If you want a smaller romantic vacation, the smaller seaside beaches could be just the thing for you. Spending time walking along the beach, laying in the sun and enjoying the scenery could mean romance to you.

For those who consider history a romantic trip, there is a great deal of history to be seen in Italy. From the Coliseum and Roman Forum in Rome to the leaning tower of Pisa, historical ruins abound in Italy. Also famous is the lost city of Pompeii, where the volcanic ash covered this village in its entirety. If history equals romance for you, plan for visit to include taking your sweetheart to see the history all through the country of Italy. Italy has a great deal of everything to offer to romantics visiting from all over the world. Plan to visit the location that matches up with your own personal idea of romance. It is guaranteed that you will find the perfect spot on your visit to Italy.

If you're looking for some great deals on holidays to italy, then why not take a moment to visit http://www.pageandmoy.co.uk/destinations/europe/southern-europe/italy/.

With a number of Italy holidays to choose from, you'll have everything you need to make your holiday one to remember.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Barrie_Le_Gall


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Things You Need for a Wedding in Umbria Villas

Planning a wedding is quite a difficult task. You need to consider all the requirements necessary for an amazing wedding ceremony. If you’re planning for a wedding in Umbria, Italy then the first thing to do is to look for attractive and beautiful Umbria wedding villas.

You can find many wedding villa sites where you can book online. Get all the details about the wedding villas and location where it’s situated. Book any one of them which you think caters to all your requirements. Here are some of the major aspects which are necessary for your successful wedding ceremony.

Accommodation for Guests
There are many Umbria accommodation facilities available in Italy. A selection of rental apartments, farmhouses, holiday homes, and villas as well as Umbria castles is available in the immediate vicinity of your Umbria wedding villa for family and relatives.

Flower arrangements and Bridal Bouquets
You’ll need beautiful flowers for various purposes. From bouquet to the boutonniere and for the arrangements in the church and the reception, these all can be arranged with the help of experts. Sometimes, even the owners of the villas can help you choose the perfect flowers for the wedding in Umbria, Italy according to the season. Some may want small bouquets while some may want custom designed. All your requirements can be fulfilled by these people.

Beauty - Make up
Bridal beauty plays an essential role in wedding. Every bride wants to look special on her wedding day. Look for the professional artist around the wedding location. You can ask for hair dresser and make up artist to come directly to the villa. You can find that the people here are very professional and the services they provide are affordable. They can even arrange for a trial make up session on request.

Wedding Favors
It’s the desire of every couple that their wedding leaves a lasting impression on their guests and this is never fulfilled without wedding favors. You can truly get unique ideas from wedding professionals here. They help you choose unique gifts to give to your guests as a memento of your wedding in Italy. They help you get the things that match your taste, color, and budget too.

Musical entertainment
A wedding without a musical program is like a wine without any taste. You can choose from many professional musical program providers in the location. They offer a collection of best music for your wedding. When it comes to the music for your party, the choice is endless. A variety of music is available from which you can choose.

Wedding arrangements need to be done in advance so as to be relieved from last minute tension. Sicily wedding location is also popular among many tourists. It's better to make plans and book in advance so as to have a great wedding.

About the Author

Kathy travels through most of the locations in Umbria of Italy and writes on wedding destinations and the services provided by them. Through her experience, she helps couples to choose from various romantic Sicily wedding locations or Umbria wedding locations.

Source: Article Bazar

Tourist Attractions of the Most Fashionable City Milan

Italy’s second largest city Milan is a world center for banking, high fashion and international conferences. Milan is one of the best tourist places in Italy. Being Italy’s business and fashion center, Milan is a city of great wealth and the heart of the Italian economy.

Tourists visit Milan and get impressed by its popular landmarks. Milan has a list of must see sites and much more to do on your visit to this fashion land. The sites include the Duomo – Milan Cathedral, the Vittorio Emanuele II shopping plaza and the La Scala Opera House. Milan is truly a paradise for great shopping, football, Opera, Great Restaurants, Bars, Clubs and Unrivalled Nightlife. This fantastic city is also well-known as a paradise for fashion.

There are numerous traveling options available to reach this fashion city. Apart from flights through various European destinations, Eurostar train is also one of the most desired modes of transport. It is also known as Chunnel train. This train is most viable option than flights as it is fully packed with all basic amenities like excellent on-board facilities, thrilling speed of 186knph, great food and high punctuality rate. Reaching the city, either through flight or train, you can avail Milan car hire services in order to move around the city with comfort.

Most recent, Milan has won the most fashionable city in World according to Reuters beating New York, Paris, Rome and London successfully. Milan is the engine room of the country’s economy and home of its stock exchange. Thus, other developed Italian cities cannot compete with this city. There are many international brand shops in this city.

Tourists across the world are attracted to its historical and modern sights, museums, monuments, cultural attractions and great shopping malls. Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit this wonderful city. Milan is vibrant, active and has throbbing nightlife. It is world renowned for its nightlife. There are numerous hotels, bars, nightclubs, cafes, restaurants, operas and discos that make you feel full of zest.

The most popular nightlife area in Milan is the Brera district, where you will find lots of restaurants and bars. Don't miss to visit the Navigli a happening place for youth in Milan. You will find most of the youth crowd at Navigli where you will find lots of cafes, clubs, bars, restaurants and discos.

Milan is the city that makes you feel so special and extreme, just as the city lifestyle is extreme too. A frenetic restlessness is part of both work and leisure lifestyle. So, it becomes quite difficult to overcome cultural and social stimulus. Milan makes you feel so alive and full of energy when you are away from your city. Milan is always ahead in fashion with a laboratory of artistic experiments and a building site for social behavior that is continuously changing. Milan is famous for its shopping, trading and amazing designers but also a great place to enjoy a good meal. There are many ethnic restaurants, trattorie and pizzerias in the city.

Touring Milan is really a great experience. Hire a car and visit different areas in Milan to enjoy this fantastic most fashionable city of the world.

About the Author

Gilbert is a travel writer. He recently visits beautiful cities of Italy, especially Milan. He shares his true experience about natural beauty, accommodation and also Italy car hire services for different destination of Italy.

Source: Article Bazar

Stressed Out? Take A Vacation!

Today's poor economy, career insecurity, mortgage repayments, debt and energy prices are some of the leading causes of stress affecting people around the world today.

Holidays are very important to our physical and mental well being. Whether the vacation is a weekend getaway or a full two-week vacation from everything stressful, make the most of it by doing nothing. Pay your bills before leaving home so you don't have to worry about calling or going online to pay them while trying to relax. That's the purpose of a holiday - to get away from it all. On the beach or an amusement park ride is not a good place for a cell phone or blackberry, leave those at home.

Sunshine

Sunshine can improve one's mood, ward off depression, aid in sleep and even improve your sex life. Not only does the sun provide the skin with a healthy glow, it provides nutrients that essentially have a positive effect on many areas of life. Moderate sun exposure can raise vitamin D levels, reduces stress and helps our bodies recover from jet lag more quickly.

Fresh Air

Many people spend far more time indoors than outdoors. Sometimes this is not by choice. Demanding work or class schedules are leading reasons people spend most of their time indoors. Fresh air helps cleans our lungs better than any air purifier system available on the market today. Having the ability to breathe more easily increases the amount of oxygen provided to our cells. Increased oxygen means increased energy to do the things we need or want to do.

Play Time

Most adults do not take the time to play and enjoy themselves. Vacations provide a great opportunity to just let go and enjoy your time, whether on the beach or a theme park tour. Adults often ask how children have so much energy. Often the answer is simple - they take the time to play and enjoy life unlike their adult counterparts. The next time you take time for a vacation, make time to play and enjoy it.

Creativity

Don't stick to a normal schedule when you're on vacation! It is your vacation, your time off. Go to bed late and sleep late, enjoy breakfast in the afternoon or dinner at midnight. Be creative when planning one day to the next. Plan activities you enjoy. Don't be worried about what others may think of your creative efforts, just enjoy your vacation.

Freedom

Vacations provide many forms of freedom - freedom from the 9 to 5 daily grind, the commute, the office and best of all freedom from your alarm clock. Vacation time means no stressful schedule to maintain. Plan your vacation but do not make daily plans that take you out of your realm of relaxation. Vacation plans should include things you enjoy doing, not things you feel you need to do.

Relaxation

Brooks Gump, Ph.D., assistant professor of psychology at Oswego said, 'We concluded that skipping vacations could actually be dangerous to your health. Vacations have a protective effect because they help you reduce your load of stress, or at least allow you to take a break from the everyday stressors of the workplace.'

Researchers and doctors have assessed stress related illnesses for years and the majority of them have come to the same conclusions - vacations are an essential part of maintaining good mental health as well as good physical health.

Vacation Locations Around the World

The British enjoy spending their vacation time in various locations in Spain and Europe. The Balearic Islands, Canary Islands, Spain, Hungary and Italy are some of the more popular vacation destinations. Low-cost airlines throughout Europe allow the opportunity for Europeans to plan shorter, more frequent vacations and weekend getaways, flights to Malta have come down in price in recent years for example.

Florida, the Caribbean and other coastal areas are some of North America's most popular vacation destinations. Theme parks around the United States are great destinations for overnight or weekend getaways. Many adventurous vacations are also available throughout the United States and Canada throughout the year.

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Vacation guides for European locations are available with Tribune, including one for Malta with low cost holiday Malta options at yourmalta.com

They also have some popular travel sites for sale for those thinking of a new enterprise.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com

Let the mountain come to me

When the winter begins the thousands and thousands of tourists rush to the Alps – the highest European mountain system with the most prestigious mountain resorts. The Alps occupy the part of Italy, France, Switzerland, Austria, Germany and the former Yugoslavia. The choice of a particular country can depend on the language spoken there, the attractions (except mountains) you can see there and the price.

Mountains are a kind of addiction – once having tasted, you will ask for more and more again. Here you can receive an enormous level of adrenaline and try all the extreme sports available – alpine skiing, luge, bobsleigh, snowboard and other winter sports.

So, let’s compare the Alps in the different countries.

Austrian Alps is Innsbruck, Kitzbuhel, Zell am See and St Anton. The most developed area is Lech in Tirol, called “the cradle of the mountain sport”. High above Lech lies Oberlech – real alpine paradise with great routes, discos, bars and shops. Innsbruck, the capital of Tirol is situated 575 meters above the sea level, but the mountains surrounding it are some 2000 meters higher. It guarantees an outstanding view from any point of the city. Kitzbuhel is one of the most beautiful and prestigious resorts. The resort is good for snowboard fans – special complex Snowboard Paradise is located on the slope.

Zell am See boasts the wide range of the ski routs of various difficulty. It is one of the most popular resorts in Austria, due to its democracy and variety of attractions. One of the oldest resort - St Anton has a century history and is considered to be one of the most important points in Alps.

German Alps begins on the Southern part f Bavaria. It occupies less significant part than in Austria but there are some attractive resorts too. The highest-lying village in Alps Oberstdorf has become one of the popular ski resorts. Oberstdorf is close to the Austrian Tirol. It is not only a resort; it is a popular place for holding up winter sports championships too. Garmisch-Partenkirchen is among the best Alpine resorts and is also a popular place for winter sports competitions. Here I should mention, that the Germans are the best fans in winter sports ever. The stages of the different winter sports World Cups in Germany attract much more visitors then in any other country. Biathlon, ski jumping and cross-country skiing are extremely popular there.

Though it may sound strange, Italy can be called “the most Alpine country of the world”. Italian Alps stretches for more than a thousand kilometers and the highest Alpine peak – Montblanc is located in Italy. Italian popular resorts Madonna di Campiglio, Val di Fiemme and Cortina d'Ampezzo are the world leading alpine skiing centers.

France is famous for its winter resorts too. They are mostly known for the high level of service, the most fashionable hotels and, of course, mountains. There are no other places on the earth like Courchevel. It has become a symbol of the luxury and prestige. It’s the place to show off. Those, who just want to ski, should better choose some other resort. Chamonix is more democratic, but still very cozy and renowned.

Switzerland is the last in our list of Alpine countries. Its resorts are considered to be rather expensive, but there are some affordable places too. The most prestigious resorts are Zermatt, Saint Moritz, and Davos. They are an ideal choice for the most demanding travelers with its chic boutiques, the best hotels and the magnificent mountain routes. Davos is also the home for the annual economic summit, visited by the world-leaders. The cheaper resorts are Grindelwald and Gstaad.

As you can see the choice of resorts in Alps is really enormous, but why to choose? You can visit all of them and then decide which one you prefer.





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If you like to know about how to book hotel in any country of the world, please visit www.allrez.com

Source: http://www.articletrader.com

Taking It To The Extreme With Mount Everest

The best known mountain of all, Mount Everest is an excellent modern extreme vacation destination. Travelers seeking a journey to a mesmerizing location will not be disappointed. Everest ranks as one of the top 8 extreme vacation spots in the world.

Mount Everest is the highest mountain in the world. It attracts hikers and thousands of climbers of varying skill levels every year. Everest is around 29,029 feet high or 8,848 meters. Exhilaration and adventure are set requirements for climbing enthusiasts looking to vacation at Mount Everest. Stepping away from the beaches or camping beside a lake is becoming more popular.

Glaciers envelop the mountain from peak to peak. The mountain is a pyramid shaped horn with three chief ridges which soar to the summit from the north, south and west. The mountain is revered by the people of the Himalayas for power and beauty. Locals also revel in the fact that so many thrill seekers come to the mountain bringing much needed income.

What makes Mount Everest an extreme destination is the altitudes combined with the weather. There's a very small window of opportunity for climbing safety. The months of May through October are the best months to climb the mountain.

Only Serious Climbers Please

It's important to take into account that mountaineering is for serious travelers. Mount Everest is a tremendous adventure for serious thrill seekers. Steep faces, rough rocks, night climbing, ice, wind and snow are all factors when climbing this mountain.

An adventurer will journey from Lukla to Base Camp which is 17,600 feet of trek on the first day. Khumbu Icefall is another 19,500 feet upward, and then comes the Valley of Silence. Finally you will scale Lhoste Face and then onto the Summit. A climber will begin early in the morning and each stop resonates with a sounding effect of triumph.

As an extreme destination Mount Everest offers minute by minute thrills. A traveler seeking to branch out and away from the ordinary will find the world's highest mountain is a thrill seekers dream. It will test your own endurance and will power.

Breathtaking scenery, defying everyday life and a sense of accomplishment await those who wish to trek the highest peak in the world. It truly is a mountain climber's dream accomplishment.

Although one of the rarest adventure sports, mountaineering is one of the best options for an extreme vacation. Climbing Mount Everest is one of the utmost accomplishments of a lifetime. Embracing the intense challenge sets in stone a climbers sense of adventure.

Malta Climbers Set to Climb Mount Everest

In May 2010 three men from Malta will seek to be the first from their country to set their flag atop Mount Everest. Marco Cremona, Robert Gatt, and Gregory Attard are members of Challenge 8000. They are climbing Mount Everest for the aid of the Society of Maltese Asthmatics. They hope to raise social awareness on the air quality in Malta.


How much a cheap Malta flight impacts the environment for example isn't well known at the moment in Malta.

Robert says this about climbing the mountain, "Everest is the summit of what you can achieve, it's the one thing on every mountains climber's mind; the one place they all want to be." Trekking Everest is a dream come true, but a formidable one for any climber.

One must be fit and acclimated to high altitudes and ready for the push of a lifetime. Climbing Mount Everest will place a climber alongside the world's greatest climbers. It's an extreme destination, with an extreme calling for many.

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More details about a Malta are obtainable at yourmalta.com plus for Italy the Rome weather and an Italian map

Source: http://www.articletrader.com

Holiday Villas in Florence

Tuscany's capital is widely renowned across the world for its beauty, history, and cultural magnificence. There are few places anywhere else on earth that boast such a meeting place of enticing offerings, and millions of visitors flock to Florence each year to enjoy the attractions. Staying in hotels, hostels, and holiday villas across the city, these patrons make their way through all of Florence's restaurants, museums, and churches.

Florence is referred to as "the cradle of the Renaissance", and the "Athens of the Middle Ages", and you'll know why the moment you step off the plane. The entire city is jam-packed with monuments, art and architecture that symbolize the best of that important period in European history.

The list of sights to see during your visit is long. The centerpiece of the city shouldn't be missed, however, so make sure to plan ample time for touring the Duomo, built by Filippo Brunelleschi. After that necessary stop, take the time to check out the various museums, including the Uffizi, the Bargello, and the Palazzo Pitti. All are world-class exhibitions of Renaissance Art that display priceless pieces from the period.

The summer months are a wonderful time to visit Florence, but be prepared for temperatures to soar. You'll also have to deal with sky-high humidity. The best way to combat these conditions is with the rental of a vacation villa with a pool in Florence. After a long morning of touring through museums (which thankfully have air-conditioning), you can retire to your villa to relax away the rest of the day by the pool, letting the cold water soak the pain in your feet away.

As an alternative, you could also consider renting a place outside of the city. It's much cooler once you leave the city limits, so a holiday villa in the Florence hills could be the perfect answer to your problems. If you do go this route, you'll want to rent a car for private transportation, as buses are somewhat limited to the area. Of course, this is an attractive option anyway, because the wine of Chianti beckons tourists to leave the city for wonderful tours through the countryside.

Often, renting a villa can prove to be more economical than staying in a hotel, especially when traveling with a larger group such as your entire family. You'll have more space, comfort, and will likely enjoy a more authentic experience (with real Italian neighbors) than you would if you had stayed in a charmless international chain hotel. Renting a villa is easy and painless, and can often be done online without a problem.

Florence is one of the most beloved cities in all of Europe (and indeed the world), and for good reason. With all of the art, culture, food and wine you can handle, you're guaranteed a fabulous trip. After all that enjoyment, head back to your private Florence villa to spend the rest of the day and evening with the people you love the most.

Truly the best way to spend a vacation.

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Teresa Cambi collaborates with many online tourist guides, writing articles about the most popular travel destination in Italy. She currently works as press officer for http://www.castellodibibione.com , a vacation villa with pool in Florence located just among the beautiful Chianti hills.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com

I Love Italian Wine and Food - The Umbria Region

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

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

Venice, Italy

Enjoy the Enchantment & History of Venice, Italy

by Roy Witman


One 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



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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

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

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