New Events To Experience in Rome

If you’ve been to Rome a few times and are looking for a few new places to visit, here are a few of the top events that  Italians love but visitors rarely find out about! Airline tickets are out there now, so keep the mood upbeat for the year ahead, and get a break in beautiful Rome.

Alta Roma Fashion Show

Of course Rome is famous for its love of fashion and so where better to visit when in Rome than a fashion event?  The AltaRoma show takes place from the 28^th to the 31^st of January and combines traditional fashion shows with a host of additional events and performances to give it a real twist.  Here you can expect to see the most extravagant outfits and new fashions while at the same time enjoying new talent and unconventional side acts,  such as fire jugglers and amazing dance routines.  It really does make for an great day out. It is hosted at the Complesso Monumentale Santo Spirito which is in Saxia, Rome.  The easiest way to get there is to head towards the Vatican City and then follow the signs. Even if fashion isn’t really your thing, this show is a must!

Rome Independent Film Festival

The Rome Independent Film Festival, or RIFF to the locals is another annual event.  This runs through the month of March and allows you to enjoy productions from fledgling directorss and film makers wanting to make a name for themselves.  Some viewings are completely free of charge and there’s a dazzling array of  films genres – there really is something for everyone.  Check out the RIFF website for an up-to-date list of viewings available.

Rock In Roma Concerts

The Rock In Roma annual concerts take place during June and July, and are always held out of doors to embrace the warm weather. Previous concerts have included acts such as The Cranberries, The Chemical Brothers and Fabri Fibra, so you are sure to see top names here – it’s a fantastic atmosphere, hot music in the warm summer air. Concerts are held at the Ippodromo Delle Capannelle which is a stunning environment.  You can get there by using Line A on the Metro and getting off at Colli Abani.  Alternatively, you can catch Bus 664 that will take you to within walking distance of the entrance. Each different event has its own pricing, but tickets are usually between 23 Euro’s and 46 Euro’s with some concessions also available.  Just make sure that you book tickets quickly (online booking is available) since this is very popular with locals.

Rome is so accessible now – just a quick scan of the flight bargains will have you cheering on the New Year – holidays are still affordable!

Relax and Discover Lake Garda

It’s not surprising that Lake Garda is Italy’s most popular lake; its charming villages, historic castles, outdoor activities and picturesque landscape appeal to those seeking romantic getaways and family holidays. If you need reason to visit the picturesque shoreline why not consider a spa break holiday to Lake Garda?

The advantages to taking spa holidays should not be overlooked. When opting for a spa break, holidaymakers will not only escape the cold damp of the English weather and enjoy some quality time alone with loved ones, but they will also come back relaxed, rejuvenated, and not exhausted!

Typically, spas will offer a range of relaxing treatments. These usually range from a conventional full body massage or facial boost to the more unusual ‘hay-bath’ or ‘mud-wrap’. Most spas offer massages, steam rooms, whirlpool baths, and beauty therapies. So, if throwing yourself down the snow covered Dolomites isn’t your idea of a dream holiday to Italy, and you prefer pampering to adrenaline, consider a more restful Italian lakes holiday – with a spa break. Make time for yourself and your loved ones with a relaxing spa break in one of Europe’s most beautiful locations whilst indulging in a range of luxurious treatments as you enjoy a holiday that will live long in your memory.

In And Around Lake Garda

Lake Garda lies in the north of Italy, sandwiched by the culture-rich cities of Venice and Milan. The lake is surrounded by pretty towns, beaches, and (to the north) cliffs. Sirmione, at the southern point of the lake, is a town seeped in history and culture: favoured by artists and writers, it is surrounded by the medieval moated castle of Rocca Scaligera. Set on a peninsula jutting out into the southern waters of Lake Garda, Sirmione’s maze of tiny cobbled streets and sandy coloured stone buildings play host to the restaurants, bars, and shops that Italy is famed for. Furthermore, the town is celebrated for its healing thermal springs, first appreciated by the Romans for its healing powers. Aquaria, the town’s wellness centre, features stunning gardens and relaxing warm pools overlooking Lake Garda.

When the towns have been explored, and the spa treatments completed, there is still the surrounding area to explore: take a panoramic walk through the shady park overlooking the lake, paddle on the sandy beaches, and swim in the turquoise waters of the lake. For thrill seekers, a speedboat trip around the peninsula is an exhilarating way to get a new perspective of Sirmione. Besides Sirmione, the other towns on the lake can be accessed by the lake ferry and hydrofoil services or regular bus service – Desenzano, Salò, Gardone Riviera, Garda and Bardolino are all served. Away from the lake, Verona, the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet, is definitely worth a day trip, as one of Italy’s most attractive cities with bustling squares and elegant shops. Guided walks are available, taking in medieval remains in the historic centre.

As for the practicalities; the nearest airport to Lake Garda is Verona, 33km away, with a transfer time of around 40 minutes. Flights from the UK are available from:  Belfast, Birmingham, Bristol, Gatwick, Glasgow, Manchester, and Newcastle.

Travel guru Tess is an eager explorer, but like any holidaymaker, also loves Spa Breaks

Luxury In The South Of Italy

Beautiful Puglia is one of Italy’s loveliest regions, located at the heel of the ‘boot’ – the Salento peninsula. With long stretches of beautiful coastline, acres of olive groves, vineyards and superb food and wine, the area is an ideal holiday spot for those seeking a touch of luxury.  Rather than simply booking a hotel, visitors can choose from a range of luxurious self-catering accommodation – from romantic beachfront villas and  to magnificent buildings known as masserie, there is a wealth of indulgent, high-end options on offer.

Spending your holiday in your own private accommodation means you can relax in comfort and enjoy the freedom of privacy. But having your own ‘home away from home’ doesn’t mean you need to spend your time wandering the supermarket aisles, sweating in the kitchen or sitting behind the wheel of a car!

If you’re looking to treat yourself to lavish Italian holiday, in which you can relax and let others do the hard work for you, here are just a few examples of indulgent extras that can make a stay in a Puglia villa even more luxurious.

Dinners On Request

A holiday is a time to truly step back from your usual day-to-day duties, so why not be waited on for once by hiring your very own ‘in villa’ cook? As you relax by the pool and soak up the sun, your cook will prepare authentic, mouth-watering Puglian dishes created from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Whatever your requirements, whether a romantic dinner for two or feeding the whole family, you can have your meals created for you and even save yourself the chore of washing up.

Puglia is prolific in its production of wine, creating around 17% of Italy’s wine. It is famous for its Negroamaro (the ‘bitter black’) and Primitivo (Zinfandel) grapes, which are highly regarded internationally. This beautiful region is home to countless wineries for tasting and purchasing wines. If you can’t bear to drag yourself away from the pool, now may be the ideal time to arrange a delivery straight to your villa, so that you can indulge in these magnificent wines without having to leave your chair.  Some villas in the area, such as the lavish Masseria Curti Vecchi, come with their own fully stocked wine cellars too, so you can be sure to stay well supplied for the entirety of your trip.

Indulgent Cruising

Nothing oozes luxury like a private yacht and, with 800km of stunning coastline to explore, Puglia is a perfect location for taking to the waves. Enjoy snorkelling and swimming in the clear blue sea from your very own vessel as you float far from the hustle and bustle of towns and cities. If you prefer a speedier option, you can also hire private speedboats, so your day on the waves can be as fast-paced or relaxing

Chauffeur Driven Delights

Puglia is home to some stunning national parks, vast stretches of beautiful beaches, adventure parks, zoos, charming villages, markets and so much more. The best way to explore this fascinating region is by car, but if you still want to relax and indulge in those delicious wines without worrying about tackling Italian roads, then you could consider hiring your own private chauffeur to transport you to your location without any hassle. With a personal driver to transport you around the region, you will be free to sit back and enjoy your surroundings without having to lift a finger except for arranging to be collected at the end of day.

If any of the options above take your fancy, Think Puglia provides a range of exclusive luxury villas in Puglia and offers a range of indulgent Think Experiences such as private chefs, boat charters, wine deliveries and personal chauffeurs.  You could, for example, consider a stay in the exquisite Villa Blanca, a luxurious summer house with its own infinity pool and stunning sea views just outside the exclusive seaside resort of Leuca on Puglia’s southernmost tip. Or why not book a holiday at the beautifully restored, luxury Masseria Lamacoppa, situated just outside the uniquely evocative “white town” of Ostuni in Puglia’s Salento peninsula.

The Design Capital of Italy

Famous for banking and shopping, Milan is the second largest city in Italy. Often overlooked in place of Rome, Florence or Venice, Milan has much to offer besides lavish fashion labels and boutiques – although this is often a big incentive for premium brand seekers. With a tram system, metro and buses, Milan is well-equipped for travellers and, especially if you stay somewhere central such Holiday Inn Milan, you’ll find exploring the city easy and stress-free.

Shopping in Milan

IHG hotels in Milan provide an excellent base to see the city from, its close proximity to Garibaldi Station as well as museums and fashion houses means you won’t have far to go to see some of the key city sights. The Quadrilatero d’Oro is a mere ten minutes away by bus from here and features more designer names than any normal mortal could possibly afford! Its name means “rectangle of gold” and the high-end shopping area runs between Via Monte Napoleone and Via della Spiga. Within it, you’ll find boutiques full of labels like Prada, Armani, Gucci, Tiffany, Dolce & Gabbana, and Versace.

Another highlight for the followers of fashion in Milan is the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. This glass-domed shopping spot is an impressive building and one of the oldest malls in the world, dating back to 1867. Included within its glass and cast iron walls is Prada’s flagship store.

As trends move on so quickly and items that are so-this-season become so-last-season in the blink of an eye, Milan is also home to numerous outlet stores where you can bag yourself a bargain. Two good outlets to hunt for a chic outfit at a snip of the price are the Il Salvagente (“the lifesaver”) and Dmagazine Outlet.

When you’re in need of a rest from all the shopping, why not head to one of the many city restaurants and bars for a well-deserved meal and drink. Sample a typical Milanese dish such as ossobuco,  or braised veal shanks with vegetables, white wine and broth. Or try an “aperitivo” in a local establishment, which adds a touch of glamour to your pre-dinner drinks. In Milan, many bars offer free buffet food to have with your aperitivo, although you should expect a slight hike in the cost of your drink at this time of day.

Art and Culture

Art enthusiasts should book tickets to see the mural of Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper at Santa Maria delle Grazie (“Holy Mary of Grace”) church. There is also the Pinacoteca di Brera art museum that is worth a visit, not least because it is in a picturesque part of the city with little shops and traditional restaurants nearby. You may also want to visit the famous La Scala opera house in the city, just a few miles from the Holiday Inn Milan.

To round off your visit to Milan, why not visit the Duomo di Milano at Piazza del Duomo (“Cathedral Square”). Breathtaking in design, you can admire the interior of the cathedral and wonder at Italy’s largest cathedral which took almost six centuries to complete!

A Day Out With The Boys

After dropping my luggage at my Venice apartment I was ready to discover the city; with my best friends, Gary and Sean…

A romantic gondola ride along the Grand Canal was not on the agenda, but we  got a trip in!  Still, we made sure we were going to enjoy the visit and see as much as possible – we were in Venice!  Map in hand,  we set out to find our first destination, St. Mark’s Square.

We could not believe the number of flying “rats” in the square -  it was as if an entire pigeon army was going to war with the pedestrians in the piazza.  Gary wasn’t a fan of the scavengers that tried to rest on his head, Sean and I made a point of capturing a Kodak moment. A word of advice – if you are watching your cash or on a budget, stay clear of the little cafés and shops in the square. Even though they’re convenient and appealing, for three small foamy coffees we had to fork out 15€!

Palace Life

After saving Gary from the flock of birds, we set our sights on indulging in the cultural riches Venice has to offer, and trust me it comes in bag loads. We made our way to the Doge’s Palace, which is situated near St Mark’s Square. When we arrived, we were faced by a long winding queue that almost put us off going in. Fortunately, we were eager enough to go in and visit the museum and the queue eventually died down. A word of advice; to avoid the queue, get to The Doge’s Palace first thing in the morning – its the only way to beat the hoards of tourists.

The Palace is a must for everyone; jaw dropping paintings by Veronese and Tintoretto and beautiful sculptures. The main attraction though was the Palace itself. Not only is it a Museum, but it was also used as a fortress and a prison…not a bad prison to live in!

Gondola

Sean had stated before we went to Venice that he couldn’t leave the place without taking a Gondola ride along the canals. Gary and I were not so keen on the idea, as the price of the Gondola ride would be too expensive and we reckoned things like that should be saved for our girlfriends and not three men in a boat. However with Sean’s encouraging/cajoling we went. Sean used his initiative and took us on a 20-minute walk from the Doge’s Palace to a back canal, which was completely free of tourists. Not only that, but the price for a 30-minute boat ride for the three of us was only 60€  a bargain price.

Feeding Time

Food was next on the agenda, and you cannot come to Italy without tasting some authentic cuisine. Our Gondolier spoke English and he was able to drop us off at “Thee most buuoootiful resturanti in the whole of Venezia”. We said our “ciaos” and made our way to the cafe. Initially, we were a little sceptical about believing him, but, truth be told, he was on the money. As you would expect, the majority of restaurants serves up pasta, pizza, calzones and any other typical dish you can associate with Italy. I choose the spaghetti carbonara and a nice glass of ice cold Peroni to have , and watched the sun sink over the beautiful backdrop of St. Mark’s. What an end to a perfect day!

Stunning Places to See In Italys Finest Medieval City

Florence is one of the most stunning places to visit anywhere in the world. The Tuscan city is awash with famous art and breathtaking architecture, making it an ideal destination for sightseeing or a romantic getaway.

When deciding on a trip to Florence, planning is a key ingredient. With so much on offer you’ll need a good idea of what you want to see before you leave. Equally important is arranging your foreign currency prior to travelling to ensure you get the best euro currency exchange rate. With your money sorted and your plan decided on, all you have to think about is enjoying yourself!  Here’s a few things to enjoy in Florence.

Take In The Views

Overlooking the city from its perch in the hills above the Oltrarno, the Piazzale Michelangelo offers a picture postcard view of the city, which for many, is the best view anywhere in Florence.

Galleria dell’Academia

This is a “once in a lifetime opportunity” visit for art lovers, as the famous Galleria dell’Academia is home to one of the most famous sculptures in the world – Michelangelo’s David.

Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

The Cathedral located in the Piazza del Duomo is an architectural wonder. Clad in pink, green and white Tuscan marble the detail on its exterior makes it a must-see for any trip to Florence.

Galleria degli Uffizi

This art museum is one of the oldest and most famous in the world and is home to the world’s most important collection of Renaissance art. However, it can get extremely crowded, so remember to buy tickets ahead to avoid unnecessary queues.

Get Climbing

Take the 414 steps to the top of the Campanile Bell Tower in Piazza del Duomo and feast your eyes upon sumptuous views of the city and the cathedral.

Local Delicacies

Sightseeing can be tiring, especially if you’ve just tackled all those steps, so take your time and relax. The best and most enjoyable way to do this is by visiting one of the many gelaterias in the city. One of the best  ice cream parlours is Grom, located just off the Duomo Square – delicious! One scoop or two, this is the perfect way to relax.

Great City Square

Piazza della Signoria is one of the most famous squares in the city, and has been at the heart of Florence for centuries.

Santa Croce

The Gothic Church of Santa Croce was built in the 13^th century and contains the tombs of many famous Florentines such as Galileo.

Ponte Vecchio

This historic bridge is the only medieval bridge in the city to survive World War II. Today the bridge is not only a famous landmark; it has little shops selling gold and silver ornaments.

Boboli Gardens

The Boboli gardens is the largest public park in Florence and one of the most beautiful gardens in Italy – an ideal place for a little relaxation after a heavy day sightseeing.

Verdura Golf & Spa Resort

The Verdura Golf & Spa Resort is a contemporary hotel complex on the island of Sicily in the Mediterranean, off the toe of Italy’s continent. If you are interested in archeology, the land  is rich in ruins and historic sites such as the Greek Temple Valley in Agrigento and the mosaics from Roman times in Piazza Armerina. The  authentic Sicilian villages, full of colour and atmosphere are definitely worth a visit.

You can enjoy Verdura to the full- besides an excellent golf course and a luxurious spa, the resort has a sandy beach, tennis courts and four restaurants. The entire complex is designed as the ultimate relaxation getaway.

Great Staff

The first thing that many guests notice is that the staff  at Verdura are accommodating, friendly and very helpful. They pride themselves on being useful, discreet and polite, and are on hand to help you, whatever the problem.

Great Rooms and Suites

The grounds are on a grand scale. The front lobby, restaurant, spa and pool areas are very spacious, and rooms are airy and comfortably appointed. The style is contemporary minimalist and interior designers have carried this theme through the resort  into individual rooms and suites. The regular rooms are built in two story units. The bottom floor room accommodation include patios with hammocks and loungers and direct access to the grassy lawn, while the top floor rooms have their own balcony.  You’ll find that all rooms have their own TV and a mini bar. The rooms are fresh, simple and elegant and the bedding is top-quality cotton and linen – so you’re in for a very comfortable night!

Great Golf 

Many guests come to play golf on the spectacular course edging the Mediterranean.  The views from the sixteenth hole are especially impressive.If you are playing on the course, you get free use of the golf carts and they can go anyway on the site. If you have booked more than one night, you can play the course more than once too – great if you’re feeling competitive and want to better your score card!

Spa & Pools

The fabulous spa treatments are the ultimate in spa therapy and healing. Guests can choose from a variety of treatments from one hour session to an entire day of rejuvenation. Then, the pools and spacious poolside areas with loungers are great for water fun, exercise, and relaxation. Individuals and families are welcome to spend one or more days at the pools.

There is a man-made sandy beach, together with  loungers  and seated areas looking out over the ocean – and there is also a pebble beach on either side of the sand, skirting the island. The grassy areas and pebble shore are perfect for leisurely strolls where you can enjoy the sunsets over a sparkling sea.

The resort also has four tennis courts and bike available to rent, for a complete  resort experience. So, there is always something to do at Verdura for every day of your visit. And when you’ve had enough of the active life, you can hire a car and explore the beautiful island, so everyone gets a chance to relax and do what they enjoy!

Italy’s “Little Rome”

Verona, known as “Little Rome”, is one of the most beautiful,  restored European cities. Situated in Northern Italy, near to Mount Lessini,  the city is steeped in history and has UNESCO status. It’s a marvellous place for a romantic break. For lovers of the work of Shakespeare, it is home to the story of Romeo and Juliet. Just have a scan for a cheap flight, which are plentiful at this time of year, particularly before the schools break for summer, so treat yourself to a week in the sun, and live the high life in this dazzling city.

Verona is still a wealthy place – in the 14^th Century it flourished under rich and influential Venetian patrons and it’s seen its fair share of change and challenge. In 1882, the River Adige rose about 8m and many buildings were torn apart in the force of the swell. During bombing raids in World War II, Verona lost 40% of its buildings, and a major city plan was drawn together to preserve and rebuild the city, using original drawings to recreate this exceptional city. It doesn’t disappoint.

Things To Look Out For

While many of the main public areas were been built hundreds of years ago, they are perfect platforms for the performing arts – and Verona is particularly rich in all forms of music. The 83^rd Annual Opera Season is now open and it runs until 3^rd September.  Verona is a place where music is very much alive. From breakfast until the last drink of the evening, you’ll hear musicians and singers practising their scales and repertoires, and it makes for a great atmosphere as you walk through city.

There are so many great places, its hard to know where to start! The Piazza delle Erbe is a market place, thriving, busy and noisy of course – nearby is the Torre di Lamberti, a tower which overlooks the centre of old Verona, and then there is the Arena!

Music and The Verona Arena

The Verona Arena was built in 1^st Century AD, and was the home to Roman gladiatorial combat – it seats 20,000 people and is now the main showcase for the Opera Festival. The acoustics are fabulous and most nights there is the chance to see a famous opera such as The Barber of Seville, Aida, or La Traviata.  Opera is part of  life in Verona and so it’s so much more affordable here  – you can pick up a ticket for as little at 18 Euro’s. Combined with chance to eat a supper in an exclusive place, such as the Palazzo Camozzini, where soloists perform to small, select gatherings, it can make for a truly unforgettable musical experience.

Make time to see 18th-century Piazza Bra and the surrounding palaces, together with the lush Renaissance garden, the Giardino Giusti, reportedly a favourite strolling spot for Mozart! The Duomo, the city’s’ Cathedral is spectacular. The old city, although small is surrounded by its old fortress style alls – giving it a secret and secluded atmosphere.

If you are on the Shakespeare trail, look out for Montecchi House, where the hero of the tale of Romeo and Juliet,  is reported to have lived. It still has the balcony depicted in the story and its a great draw for visitors.

Museums

If you like Museums’, there are lots to choose from, and they may provide some welcome shade in the heat of the day! The Archaeological Museum is one for the history buffs. If you enjoy art,  top Verona galleries include the Museo Pinacoteca Canonicale and the Civico Museo d’Arte di Castelvecchio.

Lake Garda and Lush Countryside

Verona is not too far away from Lake Garda – a huge expanse of water, surrounded by glorious hillside and mountainous countryside. You can catch boat trips and tour parts of the Lake, complete with lunch and stop off points, to visit local shops and see the sights.

Also close to Verona is the Heritage Site of Vicenza,  and Valpolicella, which is a valley area where you can enjoy some of the finest wine tasting sessions in Italy.

For a week that soaks up sun, culture, passion and beauty – head to Verona. Its so near but a million miles away from the uncertain UK weather… book yourself on a British Airways flight and immerse yourself in one of Italy’s finest historical city’s.