Dear Travel Agony Aunt,  Want to spend a week in southern Italy Will be treveling with three to four couples who want to rent a fully equipped farm house as a home base for a week while explore the area. The travel periode is May 8-15, 2010. Any ideas? Barbara from Louisville, Kentucky.

Dear Barbara,

From Palermo, Sicily, to Naples, Campania, to Lecce, Apulia, the South of Italy boasts so  many wonderful cities that it’s quite difficult to choose among them, and since I don’t know which region you are planning to visit, I’m recommending you some charming farm houses in Ostuni, one of my favorite places in Southern Italy. Located in the heart of the Apulia region, the hill-top ‘White Town’ of Ostuni is really worth a visit for its maze of picturesque narrow streets, white washed houses, traditional ‘osteria’ restaurants, and nearby pristine beaches.

Agritrulli, Ostuni

Agritrulli offers self-catering apartments housed in trulli, the traditional limestone dwellings found in Apulia and part of the UNESCO World Heritage List. Each apartment is composed of  one or two bed rooms,  living room, bathroom and fully-equipped kitchen. Farm house facilities also include hammocks, table tennis, bowling green, washing machine and wood-fired oven.

Masseria Lo Spagnulo, Ostuni

The Masseria Lo Spagnulo offers both  hotel rooms and fully-equipped apartments  which can accommodate from 2 to 5 persons.  This charming 17th Century farm house in Ostuni also boasts a beautiful garden as well as a restaurant serving delicious traditional Apulian specialties prepared with olive oil and local ingredients.

Masseria Salinola, Ostuni

The Masseria Salinola offers comfortable guest rooms and fully-equipped apartments in Ostuni. Perfect for a family holiday in Apulia, this lovely farm house overlooking the ‘White Town’ boasts an outdoor swimming pool with Jacuzzi, as well as a children’s playground, parking facilities and a traditional restaurant.

I hope these suggestions will help you make you choice and wish you a fantastic trip to Southern Italy!

Travel Agony Aunt

PS: If you are looking for an apartment on the Amalfi Coast, in Sicily or Calabria, or don’t think that these farm houses are suitable for you and your travel companions, check out more  accommodation options on Venere.com.

Vanished and forgotten, the walled city of Pompeii in Naples, Italy was accidentally discovered 1,669 years after the eruption of its neighboring volcano, Mount Vesuvius, on the 24th of August 79AD. Pompeii’s awful ordeal left at least 2000 people trapped and without a choice but to silently accept their imminent demise. At present, the 150-acre city of Pompei is one of the world’s largest archaeological excavation sites, side-by-side with modern amenities such as pubs, bars, restaurants, tourist facilities, and flourishing commercial areas. Read on and get in-depth with more interesting facts about the lost ruins of Pompeii and the modern city of Pompei below.

1. Life in Pompeii

So what’s it like to live in the past? Top archaeologists and experts of the historic excavation site are still baffled. There are lots of artifacts still needed to be analyzed to somehow depict a story or a scene which can show how everyday domestic living went in Pompeii. But the huge villas, with its walls and floors decorated with intricately designed mosaics; the Thasian dolomitic marbles that line up the bars and bath houses; and a sophisticated water, drainage, and sewage system for public and private use provides us an idea that people in Pompeii lived in a very comfortable manner and sheer opulence during their time.

2. Sealed Through Time

The remains of Pompeii are so incredibly well-preserved that you could walk around and see the Greek-inspired buildings such as residences, water fountains, commercial establishments, brothels, and an amphitheater; standing erect along the deserted cobble-stoned streets where the city’s ill-fated inhabitants used to walk through. People and their pet animals, eternally captured till their last breath in plaster casts are also found in the area. You can almost feel the impression of how sad and scared they must have been at the face of certain death.

3. Brothel in Pompei Re-opens

Don’t get the wrong idea here but the Lupanare, an ancient brothel in Pompeii is back in business- as a tourist destination that is! Ready to serve curious travelers, the fascinating 2-story brothel in the middle of Pompeii reveals signs of the open and systematic flesh trade in those times. Erotic Frescoes found at the walls of the rooms set the ambiance. Even more, names of the women who worked there, their “special talents” to please their clients, and prices of services are etched on the brothel’s walls.

4. Mother Nature Joins the War

While the Second World War was happening all across Europe, American airmen stationed at the Pompeii airfield caught a glimpse of the last known eruption of Mount Vesuvius. At least 2 feet of volcanic ash and football-sized rocks blanketed the area. Army tents, military equipments, and 88 aircrafts have also been severely destroyed.

5. The Santuario

Off to the past and on to the present! Not far from the Pompeii ruins, most tourists in Pompei often miss visiting the Santuario or the Shrine of Madonna del Rosario, a church built in 1876. The whole structure is shaped like a Latin cross which is dominated by a 53-meter high dome in the center. The church altar features the shroud of Madonna di Pompei in a bronze frame encrusted with gems. But the real attraction here is the 80-meter bell tower, the top easily accessible by an elevator where you can get a breath-taking view of Pompei and the surrounding area of Naples.

Top 3 Hotels in Pompei, Italy

• Hotel Diana – 3-star hotel – double room: €73
• Hotel Pompei Resort – 4-star hotel – double room: €85
• Hotel Degli Amici – 3-star hotel – double room: €90

Photo of Villa dei Misteri, Pompei, Italy, by Nick In Exsilio

The Hungarian Girl invites you to attend the 16th Stollen Festival in Dresden, Germany.

In occasion of the festival, a giant stollen bread will be baked and paraded through the Old Town towards the Dresden Christmas Market.

Gay Christmas Market

Patroc.com gay travel guide announces that Amsterdam will host a special Pink Christmas Market. Oragnized by the ProGay foundation, the event will take place 18-28 December 2009 right in the center of the Dutch capital.

New London Guide

The Londonist reviews ‘Not for Tourists Guide to London‘ and announces that they will be giving out a few free copies of the guidebook via their Twitter account soon.

Spoleto Guide

On GotSaga.com, read a blog post on Spoleto, Italy, a lovely city located  only 39 miles from Perugia and 78 miles from Rome. The short guide includes Spoleto’s most interesting landmarks and sights, such as the Roman Amphitheater and the Duomo of Santa Maria Assunta cathedral.

Photo of stollen by Birger Hoppe

There are numerous wineries in the region and many of them are open for tours and wine tasting, as well as some excellent choices for lodging. Whether it’s the wineries that the region is so renowned for or the historic castles, this is one of the most beautiful regions in all of Italy.

Sightseeing tours of Chianti abound and are very affordable whether. Whether it’s a tour for a couple seeking a romantic getaway or for large families or groups, there is something for everyone to take part in. The following is a list of suggested places to be sure and visit if you are planning a vacation to Chianti.

Galleria dell’ Academia Renaissance Art Tour

This tour will definitely enlighten you to the fact that Florence, Italy was truly the birthplace of the Renaissance. The various collections of art and sculpture found here in the Galleria will hold your interest for hours as you see first hand examples of the many creations of some of the masters of this historical period of world history.

Piazza Matteotti of Greve in Chianti

A weekly market in the main piazza of Greve in Chianti takes place every Saturday morning and is well worth exploring. It’s a shopping extravaganza to say the least with a wide array of merchandise at reasonable prices for the visitor to take advantage of.

Antiques and Collectors Fair

This fair takes place only twice a year on Easter Sunday and the second Sunday of October. You could easily spend the day exploring all that this event has to offer as well as bringing home some memorable reminders of a wonderful holiday in Chianti.

Plants and Flowers Market Exhibition

This colorful event happens only once annually on the first Sunday in May and is a testament to the beautiful colors that typify the Tuscany countryside. This is another must-see destination if you are prone to traveling before the summer crowds are out and about.

Grape Harvest

Usually takes place in late September or early October, but the date oftentimes varies from one year to the next. If you ever want to experience a celebration of the grape, then the Grape Harvest is well worth taking in when you are vacationing in the region.

Chianti Wine Festival

Occurring on the 2nd weekend of September, this festival spells out what the region is so renowned for. Chianti wine travels to all parts of the globe from this region, and this festival will entertain you to no end.

Photo of Chianti by Sara Carnati

Regardless of which one of these towns you spend time in, the nightlife at the bars and pubs in and around Desenzano del Garda will keep you hopping until the wee hours of the morning. The following is a list of what we feel is the best bars in the Desenzano del Garda area and surrounding towns.

The Barracuda

Oftentimes rated as a must-see pub in Lake Garda so it is always busy in there once the sun sets. It is a very popular spot with locals and tourists alike. A fun-filled environment with excellent décor, The Barracuda needs to be the #1 priority for a great evening out while visiting the Lake Garda area, especially if you can hang with the locals into the early hours of morning.

The Piano Bar

Situated within the confines of the Grand Hotel, this Lake Garda piano style bar rates on the list of must-see nightspots. The hotel features a pool bar at its private beachfront that is open most hours of the day and into the late evening. So it’s a great jaunt for a late night out. There is also a terrace for dining and drinking complete with a live pianist to set the mood.

Art Club Disco

If you’re looking for a bar or a pub, that features dancing, dining, and drinking this is the best of all three worlds. It serves up some of the most tantalizing dishes anywhere in Lake Garda, features a great bar menu, and the dancing venue is probably the most popular in the lake area. But be aware that this is a venue that caters to a younger crowd so at times it gets a bit boisterous and loud in there.

Hollywood Discotheque

Patterned after bars and pubs that you would see around Hollywood and Vine or Sunset Blvd., this disco rocks American style. It is considered to be the happening place for locals from the younger generation to the middle aged crowd and the tourists are always welcome and treated very well. Patterned after a Hollywood villa that looks like it was a 1950’s throwback, Hollywood Discotheque is considered the most happening place at the Lake.

Café Filippini

A great dining and drinking experience to consider when you’re at the lake. One of the best features about this café is that it is open from 8am until 2am Thursdays through Tuesdays. Wednesdays are the only days that they close so you’d have to make another choice to cover that night of the week.

Top 5 Desenzano del Garda Hotels:

• Residence Il Sogno – 4-star Hotel – Room price €90
• Villa Rosa Desenzano Hotel – 4-star Hotel – Room price €170
• Hotel Piccola Vela -  4-star Hotel – Room price €140
• Palace Hotel – 4-star Hotel – Room price €140
• Park Hotel – 4-star Hotel – Room price €140

Photo of cocktail drinks by Suskela

What do you think about the Denmark tourism video campaign showing a Danish girl seeking the father of her child, a baby conceived on a drunken one-night-stand? Do you find this hoax video funny of tasteless? Does it make you want to visit Copenhagen?

Dark England

Looking for a spooky holiday destination to go on Halloween? On EnjoyEngland.com check out the scariest places to visit in London, East Midlands,  Warwickshire and the Southwest of England.

Creepy Paris Underground

Planning a holiday in France and looking for ‘creepy’ places to visit in Paris?  Nomadic Matt recommends the Paris Sewers Tour. Another way to explore the city’s underground would be a visit to the Catacombs of Paris, but the attraction  has been closed this week after human bones  and skulls scattered along the walking paths.

Italian Cappuccino

Planning a  trip to Lake Maggiore, Italy? If you are an Italian coffee lover, visit the Stresa Sights blog and find out what a ’serious cappuccino’ is and where to drink this yummy beverage in the lovely town of  Stresa.

A Family Holiday in Southern Italy

On Travel Savvy Mom, Kimberly Sullivan recommends a family trip to Salento (the heel of the Italian boot). She invites travelers to discover the Baroque city of Lecce, the beaches of Punta della Suina, as well as the picturesque sea towns  of Gallipoli, Santa Maria de Leuca and Otranto.

A Trendy Getaway from Phoenix, Arizona

Planning a weekend getaway from Phoenix, Arizona? The Diaries of the Trendy Traveler blog recommends a trip to Puerto Penasco, a beach resort situated in the State of Sonora, Mexico.

A Local’s Guide to Budapest, Hungary

On the National Geographic, award-winning culinary guidebook author Carolina Bánfalvi shares insider tips on her home city: Budapest. And if you are traveling to Hungary and want to know more about Hungarian food and Budapest restaurants, check out  Carolina’s articles on the Chew.Hu food blog.

An Adventure Holiday in North Vancouver

On Consumer Traveler, read a nice blog post on all the exciting things to do in the Northern part of Vancouver, Canada, such as a day out at Capilano Park’s Treetops Adventure and the thrilling Air Grouse Mountain Ziplines and Capilano Suspension Bridge.

Photo of Salento, Italy by Adele Sarno

The city dates back to Medieval times so it is steeped in both culture and history. It is most noted as being St. Francis of Assisi’s birthplace a man who holds a great deal of artistic, historical, and religious significance. It is situated roughly 90 miles to the north of Rome and for all practical purposes is a must-see city on any Italian vacation itinerary.

This is especially the case if you are searching for Vegan and Vegetarian cuisine in Assisi and the surrounding cities. We have listed a 5 of those particular restaurants which you should experience and ones that we feel are “can’t-miss” dining experiences while you are there on holiday or for an extended vacation. They are as follows:

1. Ai Cavalieri – Petrignano

Located on Via Matteotti, this restaurant is one that you will absolutely fall in love with due to its location in the valley area of Petrignano just south of Assisi. The faire here is nothing short of excellent and is quite possibly at the top of our list.

2. Ristorante San Francesco – Assisi

Situated on the Via Francesco, the menu is filled with a myriad of excellent choices. Just be aware that it carries a price tag equivalent to the restaurant’s ambience and atmosphere. Their Vegetarian Lasagna made with farro pasta are what most would say is “to die for”, but it will cost you.

3. Alter Ego – Perugia

Located in Perugia, this restaurant has some of the best lunch and dinner faire in this quaint city and is a huge favorite of locals. So be prepared for a crowd and a long wait at dinnertime. But don’t let that discourage you from sampling their cuisine. Situated in a dark alley with a dark entrance, this establishment is very hip by younger Italian standards based on the very young pair of brothers who own the restaurant.

4. Osteria del Gufo – Perugia

Located on the Via della Viola in Perugia, this restaurant features the finest in Vegetarian Bohemian cuisine despite its “hole-in-the-wall” appearance. It will mind you of dining along the Rive Gauche (Left Bank) in Paris and has a fabulous chocolate mousse. However, the dining quarters are very cramped and the restaurant seats only 50 people at most, so dining elbow-to-elbow is commonplace.

5. Piazzetta delle Erbe – Assisi

Those this charming and small trattoria situated on Via S. Gabrielle dell’Addolorata in Assisi provides you with a great atmosphere, its simplicity is what makes the establishment so special. Just beware that the menu is not entirely Vegan or Vegetarian and does feature meat entrees.

Top 5 Popular Assisi Hotels & Restaurants on Venere.com

• Villa di Assisi Hotel & Resort – 4-star Hotel – Restaurant serving traditional, local cuisine
• Hotel La Terrazza - 3-star Hotel – Restaurant offering good food at reasonable price
• La Fortezza Hotel - 2-star Hotel – Restaurant serving a vast choice of traditional Umbrian dishes
• Minerva Hotel Assisi - 2-star Hotel – Restaurant offering both local dishes and international specialties
• Hotel Pallotta - 2-star Hotel – Restaurant offering excellent local specialties in a relaxing atmosphere

Photo of vegetarian lasagna by Ciro Boro

The town is situated upon a hill in the Umbria region right in the heart of Italy. It is most known for being St. Francis’ birthplace, a man renowned for his artistic, historical, and religious significance. The city is quite small so exploring on foot is not challenging. There are walking tours and self-guided tours available.

Despite the fact that all the churches and sanctuaries in Assisi are open for tourist visitation, there are certain exceptions and rules that need to be followed. Hours for visiting will vary from one to the next, but all of them forbid tourist visits during Sunday morning mass or services. Additionally, some of these have rather strict dress codes so it is wise to check in advance so that you are not denied admission.

• Basilica of San Francesco d’Assisi

Franciscan monastery named after St. Francis and is also a World Heritage Site. It is also the church where St. Francis was canonized in 1228. There is a lower and an upper church with artwork on display in both. The lower church features artwork by two renowned Medieval artists, Cimabue and Giotto, while the upper church features frescos reflecting the life of St. Francis. In September of 1997, the Basilica was severely damaged by an earthquake and was closed two years while it was undergoing restoration activities.

• Basilica of Santa Chiara

Named after Saint Clare, the structure features massive lateral buttresses, the famous “Rose Window”, and has a simple Gothic interior. St. Clare’s tomb is located here as well as some 13th century frescoes and assorted paintings.

• Cathedral of San Rufino

Also known as the Assisi Cathedral, it was named after Saint Rufinus of Assisi. Part of this structure was originally constructed on what was once a Roman cistern. It features a 16th century interior, a Romanesque façade, and three rose windows.

• Eremo delle Carceri

Situated in a canyon above the town of Assisi, this small monastery was a favorite retreat of St. Francis. Supposedly, he would preach to the birds that nested there as he was resting in the garden.

• Santo Stefano (Assisi)

One of the oldest churches built in Assisi. It has no ornate designing but simple stonemasons who built a rustic memento of their faith. This beautiful 12th century Romanesque church is surrounded by fig, walnut and cypress trees which were considered to be outside the town walls in olden days. According to legends, the bells of this church started ringing miraculously the day St. Francis died, on 3rd October 1226.

• Santa Maria Maggiore

The church was named after St. Mary the Greater and is the oldest church still in existence in the city.

There are several other smaller churches and monasteries in the surrounding area worth seeing as well. However, the ones listed above should be included in anyone’s vacation itinerary.

Top 5 Farm Houses in Assisi, Italy

• La Mora Farm House – Santa Maria degli Angeli, Assisi
• Farm House Alla Madonna del Piatto – Pieve San Nicolo’, Assisi
• Farm House Il Noceto Umbro – Petrignano, Assisi
• Farm House La Tavola dei Cavalieri – Armenzano, Assisi
• Mora Relax Farm House – Rivotorto, Assisi

Photo of the Basilica of San Francesco d’Assisi, Italy, by Il Noceto Farm House.

Dear Travel Agony Aunt,
How do I pre purchase tickets to visit the Villa Dei Papiri in Herculaneum? I will be leaving the state on Sept 15.Thank you. Arnold from California

Dear Arnold,

Tickets to the Villa of the Papyri can be purchased at the entrance of the Scavi Archeologici di Erconalo, also known as Herculaneum (direction: Corso Resina, 187, Ercolano). Though there is no additional cost for visiting the Villa, advance, timed tickets are required.  In addition,  keep in mind that you must  pick up your entrance ticket at least 20 minutes before the time indicated on the reservation voucher. For further information regarding the ticket prices and opening hours of the archaeological site,  can call the visitor center at (0039)0817324311.

Enjoy your visit to Herculaneum!

Photo of statues, Villa of the Papyri, Ercolano by Roberto Fogliardi

• Italian Summer Drink.  To those of you enjoying a summer holiday  on the shores of Lake Maggiore, Dana at Stresa Sights recommends drinking a delicious Shakerato coffee at the Lido Beach Club in Baveno.

• Tuscany Gardens. If  Pisa is on your holiday itinerary, visit At Home in Tuscany and read a blog post on the city’s  lovely gardens. You’ll learn that the world famous Leaning Tower is not the only things to see in Pisa.

• Italian Design. If you are a shopaholic, Milan is with not doubt in your ‘Top 5 Italian cities to visit’. So check out La Bella Città and find information on the new beautiful Rinascente Design Supermarket situated just next the Duomo.

• Italian Liqueur: The Urbino-based Valle Nuova blog shares a Nocino recipe, a green walnut liqueur very popular in Modena and produced in different areas of Italy.

• Rome for Gourmets: If you are in Rome and want to sample some yummy local  sweets and Italian cakes,  NYC/Caribbean  Ragazza recommends you an excellent pastry shop near Circo Massimo.

Italy Postcards collage by Storm Crypt

Travel Answer Man lists the world’s 15 best food markets including the Spice Market in Istanbul, Turkey, Chatuchak Market in Bangkok, Thailand, Mercado De La Merced in Mexico City, Mexico, Mercat De La Boqueria in Barcelona, Spain, Mercato Coperto in Modena, Italy, Pike Place Market in Seattle, USA,  Djemaa el-Fna in Marrakech, Morocco,  the English Market in Cork, Ireland, Ferry Plaza Farmers Market in San Francisco, USA, and more colorful street markets all over the planet.

Hens and Stag Parties

On Times Online, check out the most popular destinations for stag and hen parties in Europe according to Hotels.com and Wedding Ideas Magazine. It seems like most of hens’ favorite places for stag parties are in the UK with London, Brighton and  Edinburgh at the top of the list.

Italian Beauty

Italian Notebook shares some nice pictures of Ancona, a seaside city on the East Coast of Italy that offers visitors spectacular views over the Adriatic Sea.

Eat organic in the City of Lights

Secrets of Paris lists six organic restaurants, shops and markets in the French capital. So if you’re looking for organic food in Paris, head to BioArt, Victoire Supreme de Coeur, Bio Coop, Cojean, Boulangerie du Monde and Marché Biologique Raspail.

London iPhone applications

If you’re planning a trip to the UK and possess an iPhone, read Anglotopia.net and get useful tips for traveling to London with your Apple phone.

Photo of Istanbul Spice Market by Alaskan Dude

It’s as though Europe has its own private swimming pool. If you squint at the map then you might just see the outline of an elephant. The trunk taking you to Gibraltar, the ears being the island of Sardinia and Corsica and the eye being Mallorca. But where should you head to swim in the sea that is called “the middle of the land”?

1. Bol on the island of Brac, Croatia.

Brac is a stunning island off the coast of Croatia that boasts some beautiful historical buildings, some bankable hot and sunny summer weather and some of the clearest blue waters you’ll find. It’s no huge surprise to see how big the tourism has become on the island. There’s a very active nightlife and lots to see and do, including various levels of water sports. But this is about swimming in the Med so let’s focus on that. The southern waves and the north-easterly wind provide a cool breeze amidst the baking mid-summer heats which get well into the 30s. The Zlatni rat aka Golden Horn is something you have to see to believe. It’s a beach that looks like a capital V, jutting out of the land covered in sand.

Top Beach Hotel on the Island of  Brac: Villa Adriatica Hotel, Supetar

2. Costa Smeralda, Sardinia.

These coves will have you thinking you’re in a film. They certainly won’t let you leave them in a hurry. The Emerald Coast is one of the least talked about romantic spots in Europe and somewhere you should all think about picking for this year’s beach holiday. It’s a 30 km square area off the north of  Sardinia and is basked in white sand and random rocky bays with warm turquoise waters perfect for lying back for hours on end. One of the most popular beaches is Liscia Ruja but you won’t struggle to find somewhere less busy.

Top Beach Hotel in Costa Smeralda: Grand Hotel, Porto Cervo

3. Terracina, Italy

Another one few people know much about, this is a huge stretch of beach near the small town of Terracina, on the east coast of Italy about an hour and a half south from Rome on the way to Naples. It’s a very popular place for Romans to go for the day in the summer months but don’t let that put you off because there’s a lot of room there for everyone. It does get busy but if you’re looking for somewhere to swim with the family then this is a great place without the hoards of tourists from all over Europe. The waters are calm and warm and the weather is just about right for most of the year.

Top beach Hotel in Terracina, Italy: Hotel Torre del Sole

4. Paradise Bay, Malta

If you’re looking for a private swim with just you and a loved one then this beach in northern Malta might be just the thing for you. You wouldn’t find this beach unless you knew about it or were extremely lucky. Head to the tip of the island just round the corner from Cirkewwa harbour. You might find you have to put your belongings in a rucksack as you descend an old stone flight of steps in order to reach the secluded beach. It’s calm and warm and perfect for a dip without disturbance.

Top Beach Hotel in Malta: Paradise Bay Resort, Cirkewwa

Photo of  beach in Paradise Bay, Malta by Barryluff

Dear Travel Agony Aunt, We are a family of six, two adults four children. Have a villa already booked but require two overnight stops in northern sardinia. We just need somewhere basic and nice and cheap can you advise? Teresa, from Cardiff

Dear Teresa,

Responding to your question about Sardinia family vacations, you could consider staying, Eastwards from Western Sardinia, in Sassari, Castelsardo, Santa Teresa di Gallura, Palau, Golfo Aranci and Olbia.

Sassari is a culturally-rich city with a lot of interesting sites, good restaurants where to eat the traditional Sardininan cuisine and close to beautiful Sardinia beaches. Il Vialetto di Sassari will offer you cosy rooms and budget accommodation in double and triple rooms.

The medieval city of Castelsardo offers you a number of excellent restaurants with seafruit dishes as well as good beaches. Hotel Riviera- Ristorante Fofò will welcome you in 4-star modern double and triple rooms.

Santa Teresa di Gallura is one of the most beautiful places in the North. This little city is located on a headland only 11 miles far from the Southern Corsica Coast. If you would linke to stay alltogether in an apartment than can host up to 6 people, La Contessa is a good choice for you. Otherwise, Méta Hotel near the center, the tourist habour and 1 km far from the Rena Bianca beach.

Palau is located near the famous Costa Smeralda in Western Sardinia. Hotel Piccada offers large apartments for up to 6 people. Hotel For You, in Olbia, offers Emerald Coast accommodation in fully supplied  air-conditioned hotel rooms.

Golfo Aranci is set in a 15-minutes-drive from Olbia and 5-minutes-drive from Porto Rotondo, and boasts wonderful beaches well-known for its clean waters. Sardinia Blu consists of a number of accommodations ranging from one-room to three-room apartments.

Photo of Capo Testa Beach, Sardinia, Italy, by Harrison&Peterson

With everyone looking for a place to lay their beach towel it can become quite difficult to find the perfect spot. In my search for a strip of sand I wandered into the town of Sperlonga.

Sperlonga is just one hour south of Rome by trail and is very easily accessible. After a short bus ride from Sperlonga’s train station (Fondi-Sperlonga) I was dropped into the middle of this charming little town. The first thing that I noticed was that Sperlonga resembled Greece more than Italy; with it’s small alleys and stacked sun bleached buildings layered with balconies overlooking stretches of sea.

After a short walk through town I heard the shore calling me. I swiftly strolled down the zigzagging stairways past the sun bathing cats and made my way to the beach. Once I reached the sand I started scanning the prices for umbrella and beach chair rentals. Sperlonga does have public sections of beach but I would really recommend renting an umbrella; the sun can be very cruel and during midday it can be dangerous staying in direct sun. Sperlonga has an amazing beach; and they know it, you will be paying an average of sixteen euro for two lounge chairs and an umbrella (depending on how near to the water you want to be positioned). I paid twelve euro for two chairs with an umbrella in the back row; it was a mad dash on burning hot sand to get into the water but definitely worth saving five euro.

The sea was perfect, the water was clean and as clear as glass. From the coast you have a great view no matter where you look; whether up at the white hilltop town or out at the waves lapping in from the sparkling sea. I do have a few warnings though, mainly for your wallet. This town is beautiful but small, that means a bit on the expensive side. I would suggest buying all of your supplies before leaving Rome, packing a lunch and using the spare cash on something cold to drink on the beach.

A train for Sperlonga leaves every hour from Termini station (Rome) and costs €6,50 for a one-way ticket; when you arrive at the Fondi-Sperlonga station their will be a shuttle bus waiting to take you into town (€1 per one-way trip). That shuttle runs between the town and train station every hour all day; making it easy to get into and out of town. You really can’t beat this town; with it’s clean stretch of sand and sea and beautiful hilltop views. If you need a place to get away and cool off make your way towards Speronga.

Photo of Sperlonga by Lostajy

The landscape is dotted with thousands of stone structures, proving how steeped in history the country is. Whether you visit the capital city of Cagliari, explore the Spanish-gothic town of Alghero (founded in medieval times), or you schmooze with the wealthier tourists up in Costa Smerelda. The beaches are some of the most pristine you will find anywhere in Europe and the towns are nothing short of picturesque.

From a traveling standpoint, Sardinia is one of the true ideal destinations that takes you away from it all and has a little something for even the pickiest of tastes. The numerous attractions, entertainment, events, and shopping leave nothing to be desired. And then there is the cuisine, which is a favorite of international travelers everywhere, even those that insist on a vegetarian menu. Unfortunately, there are only a few vegetarian places on the entire island (three to be exact) and they are all in different cities, namely Alghero, Cagliari, and Olbia.

1. Ko De Kap

Located at Via Asfodelo 35 near at Via Garibaldi, and in front of the Piazza Della Pace. The venue here is strictly take-out and it is not 100% vegetarian so you need to be aware of that when perusing the menu. It is an organic restaurant and the menu is international, so not all of the cuisine is Sardinian. Suffice it to say, there are still plenty of vegetarian choices. Additionally, they do offer delivery no matter where you are staying in the city. The beer and wine list is fairly impressive as well.

2. T Restaurant

This is the highest quality restaurant in Cagliari and features a smaller vegetarian menu which is not near as extensive as the regular one. Additionally, all of the produce used is grown fresh on the island and despite the fact that any fish entrée is not vegetarian faire, it is brought in freshly caught from the Mediterranean the day it is to be cooked and served. All of the vegetarian dishes are prepared with a certain Mediterranean flair and the compliment to that savory meal is anyone of the many delectable wines that they offer.

3. Desole Farm House

Located at Su Canale – Monti. The farmhouse is actually situated deep within the lush Galluran countryside and has only been operating since 2003. However, don’t let that stop you, this is the finest Bed and Breakfast that you will find on the island, but with a twist. There is also the restaurant that is attached to the premises. The menu does vary somewhat based on the season, but it features the standard and the vegetarian entrees year round.

Photo of vegetarian antipasto in Oristano, Sardinia, by L I S S I

Here are five fun things to do in Cinque Terre.

1. Hike the Five Lands

Without a doubt any guide you will ever read, any traveler you will ever encounter, and any local you will ever meet will tell you to hike the Cinque Terre. The view is beyond breathtaking. Each town is situated in a, perfectly picturesque, manner which allows it to shine among the natural landscape while looking so natural it is as if they grew from the ground itself. The hike itself is also lovely, every color is brought to life; the intensity of the blue water, the green vineyards, the many colored homes, the bright white sand, and the rich tan of the path. Walking through the vineyards gives you a sense of the community, you are walking through the vineyards where the wine, which you will undoubtedly be drinking later in the evening, was born, cultivated, and harvested, and fermented to perfection. In short the views will take your breath away, you will feel more connected to the towns and the lands between them, and you will feel overwhelmingly accomplished when you reach the final town and collapse on the train back to your starting point.

2. Swim in the Sea

That glassy blue water you have been gazing at during your hike will be very refreshing, especially if it is a warmer day and you have been working up a sweat. At first the water may be surprisingly cold, but as you swim around and explore the small sea of whatever land you have recently entered, you will warm quickly and enjoy the coolness of the water, as well as the interesting views of the town from it, and the local flavor abounding in it. It is not just tourists who enjoy a fresh dip in the Mediterranean; the water will also attract the young children, usually boys, who find endless joy from jumping off any nearby rocks, as well as a few other natives looking for a nice invigorating swim in the sea.

3. Rent a Kayak, Paddleboat, or some other Seafaring Vessel

The view is not just amazing from the trails; from sea you are offered a new perspective on the land. The cliffs seem larger and more drastic, the water a deeper shade of blue, and the towns larger than they appear from above. Also, the seaside is dotted with little known gems, such as a waterfall between Monterosso and Vernazza which claims to give eternal youth to all who are bathed in its water. It’s worth a try regardless, and the pleasant pool surrounding it where you can jump out and swim makes this taste of local folklore well worth the paddle.

4. Eat Local Cuisine

Each town has a number of restaurants almost all of which serve fresh local cuisine. The wines are grown in the surrounding hillside, as well as the produce, the pasta is often made locally, and the seafood is caught in the sea nearby; the plentiful fishing boats around the city are testament to that. Aside from seafood, which is renown in most seaside towns, pesto is famous throughout the area, maybe even the entire country, as a specialty of Cinque Terre, and it certainly lives up to its fame.

5. Participate in the Local Night Life

Whether it be a wine festival, local pub, or popular gelato shop you will never regret being part of the local activities which abound after many of the wearied hikers disappear for the night. As soon as you get over your outsider status, the people will be warm and curious about you, and very delighted that you are interested in more than the panoramic most tourists come for. Even if you remain a bystander, the locals are full of life and are more than entertaining subject for people watching. You will see such sights as a balding man who looks as if he hasn’t been sober a day in the last 20 years of his life, yet who can spin magically around the dance floor, enchanting all who watch him; a woman wearing a black track suit with black sequins up the side, gold sequined fanny pack, and shiny gold sneakers; an old man in full chef attire boisterously cooking in the restaurant named after him and plasters his photo on the menus, walls, and entrance; there is certainly no lack of interesting characters.

View of Varnazza, Cinque Terre, Italy, by Philip Larson

Ms. Adventures in Italy takes you to a trip to Bellagio and Villa Melzi Gardens.  Take a look at her beautiful pictures of the lovely town on the shore of Lake Como that inspired  the luxurious Bellagio Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.

Hotels.com TV Commercial

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Watch the brand new TV spot of Hotels.com! Featuring a friendly character named Smart, this cool TV ad shows travelers why it’s so smart to book a hotel room with Hotels.com.

Hip Paris Hotel

The trendy Apostrophe Hotel presents the surprising “Light & Shadow” room. This cozy hotel room features beautiful effects of lights and mirrors, as well as a superb bedhead with a drawing of Paris roofs at twilight that reflects on the table.

Great Airport Food

Tripso publishes a list of airport restaurants that are really worth a trip. The list includes La Salsa at San Diego Airport, Billy Goat at Chicago O’Hare, Fung Lum at San Francisco Airport and more places in US airport’s food courts.

Family Holiday in Atlanta

The Q Family Adventures Travel Blog reviews 5 outdoor activities for the family in Atlanta, GA including Amicalola Fall, Tallulah Gorge State Park, Sawnee Mountain Preserve, Unicoi State Park & Anna Ruby Falls and Water Adventures on Chattahoochee River.

Photo of Villa Balbaniello in Bellagio, Italy, by ezioman

Additionally, some of these drinks aren’t at all hard to make and sample, however strange they may seem.

Lemonade – Britain

Victorian recipe books record numerous (and often strange) ways of making the perfect lemonade, which was usually consumed in the garden accompanied by a reserved game of bridge – some recipes even involve leaving overnight and straining through muslin (in layman’s terms, the thin material often used to make curtains and wedding dresses alike). A general consensus reached by most is to include some of the bitter rind into the recipe somewhere along the line for taste.

Polish Rhubarb Honey – Poland

As you might have guessed from the title, this popular Polish summer drink is extremely refreshing with the sourness of the rhubarb contrasting with the sweetness of the honey all poured over ice. It tastes a little bit like cranberry juice and is probably a little bit healthier than the Lemonade because of the addition of honey.

Limoncello – Italy

Before the seasoned Starbucks fan inquires, the Frappuccino is merely a product of the vivid imaginations of corporate fat cats who wanted to find a way to keep coffee sales high in the summer and is no more Italian than the Yeti. But Limoncello, thankfully, is. It’s simply an Italian lemon liqueur made from sugar, lemons, water and pure alcohol and is frequently drunk cold after meal times to aid digestion.

Strawberry Bowle – Germany

It’s called “Bowle” because it’s served from a large glass bowl in the manner of Punch. Made with Brandy, Champagne, Dry White Wine, and Strawberries, it’s said to be quite a good mix. It should be served in a wide, flat glass with a bit of fruit in the manner of a martini. It’s deceptively light while actually very alcoholic.

La Terre Rouge– France

A simple Red French table wine, ideal for picnics and for just about anything, comes from a blend merlot, grenache, and carignan grapes from different regions of Southern France to at varying altitudes and temperatures to really give the wine some substance.

Sangria – Spain

Sangria is a wine punch consumed all over Spain during the sweltering summers. There are many different variants and recipes of the famous drink, but most include red wine, lemonade, and fruit. Many modern varieties contain shots of Bacardi or Vodka, or vast amounts of ice and 7-up to weaken it accordingly, which may be wise if some of the drinkers are a little youthful and inexperienced. It’s so popular in Spain that it can even be bought bottled, but that detracts from the fun of making it yourself and serving it with the authentic bits of fruit floating around in it.

Photo of refreshing drinks by Mickael Dietch

Hiring a car for a week is not cheap, but corners can be cut, by renting a manual over an automatic and cutting the time it takes to the minimum of two to three days. Cheap B&Bs and guesthouses are available for people who look hard enough along the way.

1. What do I need?

Balls of steel to drive this winding route where the roads are so thin, there are people employed to wave traffic off and back on the route when coaches try to pass. One false move on some of the roads on the Italian Riviera and it’s a Thelma and Louise moment for you, except it would be into the Mediterranean and that’s kind of beautiful. Take a map, plenty to drink and bathing costumes for impromptu stop offs at scenic shores.

2. How should I drive?

Slowly. People who have done this route will probably say the same, that there is no other way. Try to avoid traditional holiday times and peak periods around working hours in the major towns along the route. This includes Genoa and Portovenere. Automatic cars save all the gear-shifting, but are more expensive to hire.

3. Which way should I go?

There’s a lot of debate about shortcuts along this route, but take the wrong one and miss out on the spectacular sea scenery. One recommendation is the E80, which is the main route, but perhaps less quaint. There are tracks closer to the edge of the sea, which may be good to nip in and out of, especially nearing  Portovenere where the major roadway nips inland. Take a map and enjoy the adventure!

4. Where can I park?

Parking in the hotels is costly, as is taking a car in the first place, with some reports putting hire of a Mercedes hatchback at £250 for a week. That’s before drivers have factored in the cost of petrol. But driving the coastline is a great way to see the scenery and stop off at leisure in small towns, such as Camogli, Monterosso al Mare and Manarola to sample traditional food and wine. It also saves lugging bags between buses, which can be a pain when not travelling light.

Photo of  road trip to the Italian Riviera by BlackSide