Food Tours & Cooking Vacations in Italy

5 Great Things to do in Piedmont in 2020 – Italy

The Langhe region it is famous for its wines and UNESCO world Heritate for its landscape.

Piedmont is a mountainous region in Italy that borders Switzerland and France. It’s famous for its undulating landscapes, beautiful villages, delicious cuisine, ancient history, and classic wines. Besides those, Piedmont also has several landmark developments and baroque architecture.

Its location on mountainous north-west Italy means that it’s perfectly ringed by the Alps. So, it features beautiful lakes and offers scenic views of the Alps. Piedmont as a whole is very large. However, there are some places and things that you should absolutely not miss out if you visit this region. Outlined below are some of the top 5 things to do in piedmont in 2020

Visit the Outstanding Barolo Town.

Barolo is a UNESCO-listed site and one of Italy’s most outstanding regions. Known for the production of premium wines, spending summer or even autumn in Barolo feels like a dream. Life in this small town is enjoyable, rejuvenating, and relaxing.

Located in the Langhe Wine region, Barolo features large farms of beautiful vineyards. This hilltop area has a small population and hence it’s perfect for summer holidays. The viticulture hub has been around for centuries and it has experienced significant progress over the past few years. Generally, it’s a quiet and prosperous region.

The well-preserved streets and numerous windy roads make evening strolls fun. This almost sleepy town is ideal for leisurely or romantic walks. Barolo immerses you in a completely beautiful scenery everywhere you set your eyes. From here, you can get clear views of the Alps as well as Monviso.

There is more than wine, vineyards, and nature in Barolo. The ancient castles, welcoming locals, and the authentic local dishes are some of the things that make tourists love Barolo. You can sample different meals, immerse yourself in the local culture while learning the history of this town.

Take a Trip to Alba

Italian’s Alba town is renowned for its eye-catching architecture and tasty cuisine. Located in Piedmont, Alba is a must-visit location for any serious foodie. In the whole of Italy, Alba has the highest number of Michelin star restaurants. Well, this high concentration is driven by the availability of white truffles. Every October, white truffle lovers usually normally visit Alba, just to get enjoy the annual festival.

Besides being associated with white truffles, Alba is also renowned globally for its architecture. This city’s charm is found in the extensive towers, medieval streets, and palaces. The Church of San Domenico and the Alba Cathedral of San Lorenzo are some of the religious buildings that will capture your attention. Besides those, the well-preserved Social Theater and the Dog House are other great buildings found in Alba.

Explore Bra

Sitting on the edge of the beautiful Langhe hills, Bra is a populous commune found in the province of Cuneo. Its popularity comes from the fact that it features many palaces and churches from the 17th century. Besides that, Bra is considered as the “food valley”. It’s the region where the slow food movement started.

So, why should you visit Bra in Piedmont? Well, this is any foodie’s heaven. The picturesque village features family-run shops selling tasty chocolates, organic sausages, and cheese. Bra exhibits local traditions thanks to the slow food movement. As a tourist, you will enjoy fresh local delicacies obtained from the village farms. Although Bra might not have enough to offer in terms of modernity, it’s one of the best places to sample various Italian cuisines.

If you love history, some of the places you can explore include the pollentia ruins. This is where the famous battle of the Romans and Goths happened. There is also the Sant’Andea baroque church which has history dating back to 1682 while the church of Santa Chiara is also found within this locality. Overall, this is an excellent location to catch a breath of fresh air in addition to the beautiful scenic views of the snow-capped Alps Mountain.

Eat Battuta di Fassona

Battuta di Fassona is a classic appetizer in Piedmont. Once the knife-cut raw meat hits your taste buds, you will easily get captivated by this delicacy. Apart from farming, Piedmont is a region that’s popular for hunting, especially game meat. So, most of the best delicacies are usually made from raw farm products or animals. Historically, the natives used to eat raw-cut meat. Well, this is because this region can get extremely cold, especially during winter. Since then, this ancient tradition has been carried over for decades and people still enjoy raw meat.

So, what makes Battuta di Fassona a delicious raw-cut meat? Well, knife-cut meats are usually rich in amplified tasty fat. As a result, they end up tasting better than ground meat. Battuta di Fassona is a delicious appetizer that engages your taste buds. Its taste is even more enhanced with the lemon juice, black and white pepper, and olive oil used for seasoning. To cater to different taste preferences, the meat is usually available in different variants. Understand that the quality of Battuta di Fassona lies in the preparation process. You can even ask for the “knife beat” so that you can fully savor this meat!

Party at the Collisioni Agrirock Festival

Attending the Collisioni Agrirock festival will be the perfect culmination of your Piedmont trip. This is the largest and one of the most loved music festival in Italy. Collision features literature, food, as well as wine. It is a versatile festival that blends different programs to create one interesting festival.

You will definitely enjoy Collisioni. The agrirock festival’s setting in a small village offers a unique experience that locals in Barolo and tourists enthusiastically wait for every year. What makes this festival engaging and authentic is the seamless combination of different components. The artistic and literary part as well as the music, food, and the Italian wine culture are some of the things that you will absolutely enjoy. During the festival, you will also get a chance to engage in wine tastings, lunches, dinners, and cellar tours. Collisioni Agrirock festival will enliven your Piedmontese summer tour thanks to the broad range of Italian cuisine and renowned artists.

5 Interesting Things To Do in Palermo (With Video)

Out of the many tourist destinations in Italy, Palermo still manages to stand out from the rest. Palermo is Sicily’s main capital. It’s rich in history, magnificent architecture, large markets, and restaurants among others.

It’s one of the biggest islands that sit in the Mediterranean Sea. Palermo’s close proximity to Malta and Tunisia makes it a favorite to most tourists. Generally, it’s a thriving city that’s full of life while giving you a breath of the fresh Mediterranean breeze. So, what are some of the things that you can do in Palermo?

Swim at Mondello Beach

Mondello: Warning it can be very crowded.

Mondello beach is a stunning location with beautiful views. Originally known as a fishing village, this small borough has significantly grown over the years. It’s now one of the top tourist destinations in the autonomous Sicily region. The contrasting blue skies and the white-painted architecture makes it a picturesque destination. As one of the popular tourist’s sites in Palermo and it, therefore, gets really crowded. The white sandy beach, the cool shore breeze, in addition to the numerous boat rides makes this places one of the places that you must visit in Palermo.

If you are visiting Mondello beach, there is a wide range of activities to engage in. it doesn’t matter whether you are an adult or a kid. From boat rides, swimming, to sun basking, there is definitely something enjoyable to engage in. The sunsets and sunrises on this beach are also captivating. So, if you want content to post on your social profile, this is one of the best places to visit in Palermo.

Eat At the Ballaro Market

Ballaro is a well-known market in Palermo that’s filled with locals and tourists alike. It’s the biggest and also the oldest market in this city. Its reputation breaks borders and it’s known globally for its uniqueness. Located right in the central area of Palermo, Ballaro is the perfect place to rest and take a meal after a morning of exploration.

Once you reach this place, you will be hit by a tantalizing scent of different cuisines. The broad food variety will also capture your attention thanks to their rainbow colors. From the delicious seafood to the local cuisine, eating at the Ballaro market is obviously among the top things to do while you are in Palermo. The clean streets are dotted with compact dining tables, giving you an opportunity to sample different meals before you can make an order. You can also purchase take away fresh fruit and vegetables, fish, meat, and cheese among others. The fun thing about Ballaro is that the vendors are always shouting and screaming to attract customers. Well, this is a unique and interesting way of advertisement.

Eat Spleen Sandwich At Focacceria San Francesco

Focacceria San Francesco’s spleen sandwich is captivating and mouthwatering. Not only will it capture your attention but it will also engage your taste buds. Even when you are full, you will still crave for more. The tasty meal is usually cooked for several hours. After that, it can be served with ricotta, pecorino, or bread.

Eating the spleen sandwich at Focacceria San Francesco is simply an amazing experience. The restaurant’s ambiance, as well as the surrounding environment, make everything enjoyable. If you are in Palermo for a couple of days, you will not only eat here once but a couple of times more.

It’s worth noting that Focacceria San Francesco specializes in various cuisines. They include Mediterranean food, Italian food, and delicious southern-Italian cuisine. If you love fast food or are interested in vegetarian-friendly meals, then your needs will be well-catered to while you dine here.

Learn about Plants at Orto Botanico di Palermo

There is nothing as refreshing as visiting the Orto Botanico di Palermo. The wide range of tropical plants is simply amazing. This garden is not only an academic institution but it’s one of the best places where you can interact and feel nature.

Orto Botanic di Palermo has a vast variety of tree species. With a history that dates back to 200 years ago, this garden will help you understand how certain plants evolved. Besides that, you will learn about the distribution of various tropical and subtropical plant species found in the Sicily region.

Note this garden also supports numerous variety of plant species. They have different sizes and shapes. Besides the tropical and subtropical plants, there is also a massive plant collection of the Mediterranean origin. Visiting the Orto Botanico di Palermo gives you an opportunity to understand the climatic conditions of the Palermo city. The garden supports over 12,000 living plant species. This means that’s its climate is favorable enough to accommodate massive flora and fauna.

Climb to the top of Palermo Cathedral

Climbing the top of this cathedral is definitely worth your time and money. The architectural design, as well as the Silica color of this magnificent building, will capture all your attention. It’s a place that’s rich in history that dates back to 1185. From the outside, this cathedral is impressive. The gigantic building features multiple architectural styles which simply add to its impressive appearance. This is enhanced by the beautiful additions from the Neoclassical and the renaissance period.

Walking through this phenomenal landmark will leave you in awe. Note that visiting the church is usually free. But if you want to get a view of the crypt, treasury, and the nearby area, then you have to pay. The treasury has a collection of paintings, jewelry, and objects. The crypt, on the other hand, is the cathedral’s bottom floor. It has unique granite columns which offer support and it’s well-decorated with stone coffins. With just a few euros, you can climb the top and get beautiful panoramic views of the city. This is one of the renowned places in Palermo, so, you can’t miss tourists here.

Final Thoughts

Palermo is a versatile city that’s welcoming to everybody. Whether you are interested in outdoor activity, sampling different cuisines, learning about nature, or engaging in beach activities, there is something for everyone. As Sicily’s economic and cultural center, this city has significantly evolved to become an attractive tourism capital.

As word of warning Palermo has the craziest traffic ever seen in Italy. So drive only if you are really confident dealing with lack of proper road signs, speeding vehicles, and congestions. Also many drivers do not respect the road priority so be always alert for who is around you and where he or she is going.

Mondello beach can get extremely congested during weekends and from the first weeks of June. Having said that the sea water is not the cleanest thatyou can find around. Still worth a visit to Mondello when it is not so busy.

Vlog About Parlemo best things to visit in 5 days

Lunigiana: Off The Beaten Track in Tuscany – Pontremoli, Fivizzano, Equi Terme

Lunigiana is located on the northernmost part of Tuscany. It’s one of the regions that’s less explored by tourists visiting Italy. However, Lunigiana is a place that’s rich in history. Besides that, it’s a beauty to behold thanks to the small hill-top towns and natural landscapes.
If you are going to visit Lunigiana, then you will leave with three memories. The rich history, scenic mountains, and food. It is known to offer great cuisines which perfectly engage different taste buds. Situated on Tuscany’s tip, Lunigiana sits between Liguria, the Apuan Alps, and the Apennines. Below is an overview of Lunigiana: Off the beaten track in Tuscany and what you can see.

1. Pontremoli

This is a small city that’s found in Tuscany. Pontremoli was previously a commune of Latin Catholic bishopric. So, it was the sole door for monks, pilgrims, and saints in Central Italy. Found in Lunigiana, Pontremoli has a mixed personality. Its charm is warm and unique. Since its origin, it’s one of the contested villages. And although it has been burned down, it still rises. But what can you see and engage in this town?
This place is rich in history. Ponte Della Cresa, for instance, is a bountiful place that was one of the multiple entrances which people used to access the city. It has four distinct stone arches and it spans over the river Verde. There is also Ponte & Tower del Cassotto which are the symbols of Pontremoli. It’s an entrance and bridge which facilitate easier communication with the neighboring coast.
Don’t forget to visit the stele museum. It’s one of the most mysterious and ancient heritages found in this land. It’s home to numerous stele statues and you will find different dimensional sculptures. A visit to Pontremoli is not complete if you cannot eat testaroli. This is a renowned pasta which is pancake-like. Testaroli is often served with pesto. If you always love to dip your bread in a sauce, you will love it.

2. Equi Terme

Equi Terme is a stunning region with great natural phenomenon. The mountain town is found within beautiful caves, marble mountains, lush nature, and natural springs among others. It’s renowned for its unique location, beside one of Apuan Alps’ peaks. It’s solidly perched on a rocky and steep slope. Note that Apuan Alps’ marble core contains healing waters that are used in the Terme di Equi baths. These waters are classified as mineral springs and they have an average temperature of 24�C. The popularity of these waters is solely based on their healing properties. People can use them to heal otolaryngology and respiratory problems, joint and bone problems, skin issues in addition to angiology.
Grotti di Equi is another area that’s found close to this bath. The UNESCO-Recognized site is consists of numerous karst caves. It features beautiful wells, lakes, and fascinating underground tunnels.
This is a perfect place to relax, enjoy beautiful scenic views, and heal your body. The Equi Terme Caves are great for an excursion. Just like the natural water spas, they were also formed through erosion. The caves which cover around 1000 meters have three main parts i.e.
La Buca: It’s considered as the entrance to the caves. Note that water no longer flows in this region.
The proper caves: this is where the water still exerts erosive power. As a result, it leads to the creation of stalagmites and stalactites. The proper caves region is made up of several partitions which feature enchanting and surreal characteristics.
The “expert” area: it covers an area of around 500 meters. This area suits only for an experienced caver. As a result, only experts can access it. The cave complex has a paleontological and archaeologic site which is important internationally.
Apart from the caves and the natural hot springs, it’s also vital to go through the village streets. You will come across a picturesque neighborhood, spire-bell tower, and a medieval-like chapel.

3. Fivizzano

This is indeed one of the most interesting and renown towns in Lunigiana. Fivizzano has a rich history. Besides that, its culture and folklore are interesting. It’s sometimes referred to as the beautiful corner of Florence because everything about it is stunning.
As a historic center, some of the places which visitors can explore include the defense walls. They were built in 1540. There is also the Baroque fountain, the Palace & Tomb of Arcadian Labindo among others. There were many foundries, iron factories, tanneries, paper mills, printing, and dye works. Based on its humanistic culture Fivizzano has played a major role. Note that this is where the Jacopo da Fivizzano initially opened Italy’s first print houses. From its diverse culture and rich history, this region was home to famous notaries, doctors, jurists, as well as men of letters.
Fivizzano gives tourists the chance to explore the Verrucola Castle which is found near the town center. The castle is currently the residence of Pietro Cascella, a popular sculptor. Other areas which a visitor can explore include the Ceserano region which has beautiful vineyards and farm. Besides that, Parish Church of San Paolo di Vendas is also a place that is a must to visit.
You cannot miss out some of Italy’s favorite delicacies in this area. From farm restaurants which cozy restaurants to Michelin restaurants, there is a wide range of delicacies to enjoy.
Generally, this region is suitable for nature lovers and those who love history. Fivizzano is an area that’s found deep within the Apuan Alps Park as well as the Appennino Tosco—Emiliano National Park. Besides that, the Sassalbo mountain village and the Frignoli Botanical Gardens all make this place interesting.

To conclude, Lunigiana is renowned for its unique history. It has amazing small towns which are unexplored thanks to its off the beaten track location. This makes it one of the perfect areas to explore in the Northern side of Tuscany. The beautiful caves, isolated castles, delicious meals, and great itineraries all make this place worth visiting. You will definitely have the time of your life because there is no tourist traffic.

Day Tours From Palermo Ideas With Video Vlog

A great spot in Sicily, Palermo is one of the areas that tourists would love to visit. It’s not only located on the largest island in the Mediterranean but also one of the areas that define the region’s history and its current affairs.

The origin of Palermo dates back to nearly 3000 years when the Phoenicians first established the first city. The place is rich in both ancient and recent history such as the origin of the Mafia, which is part of life in the city to-date. For outdoor lovers and beach enthusiasts, Palermo provides an unrivaled beautiful coastline in the spectacular island of Sicily. Besides, you can go hiking in the mountains, spread yourself on the sands, and just enjoy the non-stop warm weather that is synonymous with the island.

Here are great places to discover from Palermo day tours:

Scopello

Scopello is a small, attractive seaside village, located to the south of Zingaro Nature Reserve. It’s approximately 40 kilometers from the city of Trapani. The city built around Piazza Netunno, a popular farmhouse that dates back to the 18th century.

The ancient Scopello was destroyed by Tsunami in 1981, leaving the remains submerged by waters as great testimonies to the past. Today, Scopello is one of the busiest tourist destinations in Sicily. Scopello is home to scenic beaches with the remains of the tunary sticking out of the crystal-clear waters.

In the immediate surroundings, you can see several dive sites such as Cala Rosa, Cala Bianca, and Punta Pispisa. The southern part of Scopello is great for excursions and trekking within the Zingaro Natural Reserve, where you come face to face with unspoiled landscapes.

To crown it, Scopello nightlife is vibrant and nonstop. Tourists can enjoy the walks and fine cuisine; sample the delicacies such as fresh fish in the local restaurants, as well as multiple couscous dishes made from local genuine products of Trapani hinterland. Overall, Scopello is a popular spot for both local and foreign tourists.

Guidaloca Beach

Located a few kilometers from Castellammare Del Golfo, the Guidaloca beach is simply close to everything that a tourist could admire. There are a lot of parking places around the Spiaggia, and probably one of the places where you can get free packing. Visitors have the options to enjoy the free beach or just relax under a rented chair and umbrella at the Bar, where you can also get free fruits.

Guidaloca is a pebble beach, without sand. The waters are clean and clear, great for fabulous swims when you visit as a couple or family. If you intend to spend the night, you can find solace at the Villa Guidaloca, tucked in the leafy suburbs of the Zingaro. The place is calm and relaxing, delivering sweet scents of the Sicilian orange and lemon trees, which are part of its garden. From here, you can have a wonderful view of the sea. Overall, Guidaloca pebble beach offers great waves similar to the ones on the beaches south of Sicily, making it a perfect spot for snorkeling.

Marsala and Salt Pans

Marsala is globally popular for its wine, made from the town’s amber nectar. However, you cannot neglect the long, memorable history at the mention of Marsala.

Currently, Marsala is a popular destination for tranquility lovers who just want a relaxed environment. The Baroque old town is a nice place to stroll. Most people visit the place for wine tasting. However, the place offers many other interesting things such as the Baglio Anselmi or Cathedral, Archeological Museum, and more.

Importantly, Marsala provides great ingredients for salt making, as discovered by the Phoenicians eons ago. The conditions such as sun-drenched and longer summer days, hot winds, and shallow coastal waters favored the emergence of the salt pans between Marsala and Trapani. The people who lived in Europe and around the Mediterranean used salt to preserve food and so the establishment of salt pans in the west coast of Sicily played an important role in their lives.

Today, the salt pans provide a great tourist destination with windmills and heaps of harvested salt that are synonymous with the landscape. Besides, there is a salt museum located between Trapani and Marsala. Here visitors can have a glimpse of how the ancient inhabitants made the salt pans as well as their functions over the years. From Marsala, you can proceed to Mothya, another archeological site built by the Phoenicians on the Pantaleo Island.

Segesta Archeological Park

Segesta archeological site is one of Sicily’s most valuable tourist destinations. The site is located on the island’s western side, surrounded with lush green and quiet countryside. The park has the beautiful Doric temple, preserved and harmonious in nature. It’s also home to the 400-meter high theater, located on Mount Barbaro. These two monuments have withstood the test of time to our day. The theater is accessible by walking or by bus.

The site gives a panoramic view of the church that dates back to the 15th century, the castle, the mosque, as well as the amazing theater, perfectly preserved to-date.

The opening hours for the park are as flexible as follows:

• March 27 – September 30: From 9 am – 7 pm

• October 1 – October 31: From 9 am – 6 pm

• November 1 – February 28: 9 am – 5 pm

• March 1 – March 26: 9 am – 6 pm

Ticket prices are affordable, usually, six Euros for full ticket and three Euros for the reduced ticket. This rate applies to visitors between 18 and 25 years old. Visitors under 18 years visit the site free.

The archeological site is accessible both by bus and by car. If you opt for the bus, you can connect through the major cities from Trapani through Calatafimi to the site or from Palermo to Segesta. Check the bus timetable for prior booking.

By car, you can go through the motorway A29. This takes you from Palermo through Trapani with an exit at Segesta junction. You can then follow street signs and drive to the site.

Final Words

Palermo with its rich history, outstanding landmarks, dazzling churches, and mouthwatering dishes, provides a perfect tourist destination. There are a lot more to do in the city. On day tours from Palermo, you can discover these great places and more.

How I Ate at Bottura’s for 10 Euros…Well Not Quite.

Chef Massimo Bottura opens canteen in Modena.

At Self Service Ghirlandina for sure you cannot eat the sophisticated dishes of Osteria Francescana, however you can tell your friend that you ate at Bottura’s “Restaurant” in Modena. Moreover you can sample dishes from the Modenese tradition like passatelli, tagliatelle, tortelloni, tortellini, prosciutto di Modena, ragu’, and zampone. The average meal is 10 euros or less, what are you waiting for?

Chef Massimo Bottura opens a canteen in Modena, being part of the food for soul initiative to reduce food wastage and help social inclusion. Self Service Ghirlandina, the name of the canteen is situated at a historic and very popular place, near the cathedral in Modena.

What is the food for soul initiative

This is what I had: Pappardelle con sugo d’oca only 4.5 euros.

If you have never heard about communities to fight food waste through social inclusion, then here are some interesting facts about food for soul. Food for Soul is a non-profit organisation founded by chef Massimo Bottura & Lara Gilmore.

Do you know that food waste is a huge problem and that there are food sources that can be used more effectively with the right knowledge and education? So, what are the main features of this initiative aiming to combat food waste?

Food for soul key features

Many partners collaborate with the main aim to raise both the awareness on issues related to food waste and social isolation. This happens not locally but around the world. Of course, not all local communities are the same, therefore the local needs are being considered and these needs can lead to the creation of brand-new possibilities to be examined, never considered before.

Special attention is given in the renovation of neglected spaces and their creative transformation into inspiring community kitchens, where people that feel socially vulnerable can feel the welcome atmosphere and experience the meals created with food surplus. These special meals are prepared by renowned chefs, with emphasis given on making them both delicious and healthy. Social issues such as hospitality and dignity are given a lot of importance.

Social awareness in practice

Social Tables or “ Refettorios” are another service highlighting the need to create both an active and a conscious as well community. Social Tables Ghirlandina were launched 3 years ago, in 2016 and once per week, each Monday this community kitchen serves about 70 persons in need from the local community.

The concept of theme meals is to be inexpensive. But their low cost does not mean that they are not delicious or healthy. On the contrary besides these features there is a special atmosphere as local artists, designers and even actors are being involved to create a community being well-conscious.

Bread is Gold

In financial world gold is a precious metal with many desired features such as a hedge for inflation. But bread can be gold too.” Bread is Gold” is a book written with many recipes and the combined effort of over 50 chefs who got the idea to write how to transform in many cases neglected ingredients and turn them into a meal both delicious and most importantly healthy.

This book has been written is many languages, some of them being English, Italian and Spanish. Buying the book is another way to increase the social impact of the food for soul initiative. Doing so helps the food for soul initiative to open even more Refettorios and Social Tables around the world.

Self Service Ghirlandina in Modena is a canteen with a special social purpose. Being part of the food for soul initiative it is also a part of a community which wants to decrease drastically food waste and at the same time decrease the impact of social isolation. The location near the cathedral in Modena has the potential make it popular.

Chef Massimo Bottura Opens Posh Hotel in Modena

Massimo Bottura wears many crowns. The chef patron of Osteria Francescana has worked assiduously over the years to ensure that the restaurant retains its status as one of the best restaurants in the world. Between creating iconic dishes, Bottura has managed to author five books and also runs a non-profit organization that focuses on creating public awareness about food wastage and homelessness. The world’s best chef is now ready to add another feather to his cap — he has decided to take the plunge into luxury hotel realm, a move he had been contemplating for some time now. Bottura wanted to open an inn close to Modena to make up for the absence of a lavish hotel in the city.

It all began when two years ago Bottura and his wife, Lara Gilmore, rescued a 200-year-old magnificent estate, famous locally as the venue of many lavish parties, from foreclosure. Bottura and Gilmore invested in the property and spent two years renovating and remodeling it with the help of friends with eclectic tastes. Now known as the Maria Luigia Inn, after the name of Bottura’s mother, this three-story property is spread over 12 acres and is located only 20-minutes outside of Italy. The hotel houses 12 rooms, has a tennis court, a swimming pool, a tastefully done music room, and a spiffing sculpture garden.

If you are an art aficionado, Bottura’s new project should be your next stop. The celebrated chef and his wife plan to elevate the luxury quotient of this property by making it home to memorable pieces by many stalwarts of the art world. It is being said that guests will be able to admire the work of the likes of Tracey Emin, Matthew Barney, and Andy Warhol.

For those whose prime motive is to feast on delectable dishes by the world’s best chef, the inn houses an eat-in kitchen. Guests will be able to enjoy a lavish breakfast and light lunch, with menus designed by the chef himself. However, if that brings no satisfaction to the taste buds of guests, they will be allowed to pre-reserve a spot at Bottura’s tour-de-force restaurant, Osteria Francescana. If you haven’t had the pleasure of dining at this place before, make sure to try Tutto, a dining extravaganza that includes 12 meals.

On arrival, guests will be welcomed with half bottles of Lambrusco, the famous Italian wine that ranges from dry to sweet in taste and is a coveted choice among wine lovers world over, and Parmigiano Reggiano, the famous Italian cheese.

Bottura and his wife have not revealed the opening day yet, but if reports are to be believed guests will be able to enjoy this luxurious experience soon. With the owners going out of their way to ensure that a night’s stay at the Maria Lugia Inn won’t be something guests will easily forget, it is but obvious that the rate will be slightly heavier on the pocket. Rooms will cost $519 per night. However, with this move, Bottura and his wife have successfully tapped into the minds of the rich and elite of Italy and the world.

Modena Food Walking Tour

Emilia Delizia is proud to offer a food walking tour to explore the food of Modena on foot. in 2 hours you will be taken around the historical centre of Modena and taste all its world’s famous food. This will include Parmesan cheese, Parma ham, Gnocco Fritto, Tigelle and of course Balsamic vinegar.

How long does it last: approx 2 hours
Where is the meeting point: Modena main train station
What time: we meet at 10.00 am.
How many people: We take very small groups around, you need to book for at least 2 people.
What will I eat: We will try to include as much local specialities as possible: such as tigelle, gnocco fritto, prosciutto, parmigiano reggiano, balsamic vinegar and so on.
How do we get around: The tour is almost entirely on food. Just some light walking so wear your best shoes.
Who is taking me around: To give you the best experience these tours are only lead by locals with deep knowledge of the local area.

Balsamic vinegar tasting
Mercato Albinelli
Prosciutto and Salumi
Gnocco Fritto
Tigelle

Mosaics of Ravenna Walking Tour in Pictures.

Ravenna is one of the most historical cities in Northern Italy, thanks to its spectacular 5th- 6th-century monuments that still stands to date with eye-catching mosaics. Known as the city of Mosaics, Ravenna was once the western capital of the late Roman Empire and is now home to the eight UNESCO World Heritage sites.

A day trip to Ravenna is very interesting and one that involves a lot of video taking, photography and amusement. You’ll be marveled beyond imagination by the ancient art and history and how people were able to create such magnificent portraits from patterns of tiles and stones. Some of the monuments and churches remain fresh and undisturbed and one can easily feel the passage of time with the nostalgic mode autographed on the early Christian arts and symbols.

If you’re planning a trip to Italy, you really can’t afford to miss a tour to Ravenna. Even if you’re daring enough, your conscience won’t allow you to pass the scenic beauty of museums, historic centers, ancient tombs, etc. Here are some of the must-visit Mosaic centers of Ravenna. Read on to get started.

Basilica di San Vitale.

This is one of the most popular among the eight UNESCO sites. The beauty of its surrounding attracts the curious mind and a step into the building proves more than you can possibly imagine. Here, you get to see everything in all the aspects of the building; from the high-walls & floors, arches to the ceilings. Anywhere you stand you’ll have a perfect shot of colorful mosaics.

San Vitale’s mosaics include biblical art from the Old Testament such as Abraham & the Sacrifice of Isaac, the story of Moses and the burning bush, etc. On the side walls are mosaics of the four main disciples: Mathew, Mark, Luke, and John- under their respective symbols; angle, lion, ox, and eagle.

The Byzantine mosaics are the largest and well-preserved ancient marvels you can find in Basilica di San Vitale. The collection of these mosaics are second only to those found in Constantinople- so if you can’t be in Turkey to witness the same, it’s better to take more time here. Apart from mosaics and fabulous paintings, early Christian art can also be spotted on the apse and on different sections of the archway.

Galla Placidia Mausoleum

According to UNESCO, this is the best and well preserved of all the mosaic monuments in Ravenna. This Mausoleum was initially a martyrium rather than a tomb and is believed to have been used as a resting place for the daughter of Roman Empire Theodosius I, Galla Placidia.

The inside structure of this monument offers an exquisite view. The upper parts of the walls and domes are furnished with Roman mosaics on a blue ground augmented with star and floral motifs. The lower parts, on the other hand, are decorated with ancient plaquettes of yellow marble. Most decorations in the building are symbolic meaning you might need a guide to understand some portraits.

Light enters the monument via the tiny windows coated with thin layers of alabaster. From the symbolic crosses to doves & animals, fixed on the walls; one can clearly appreciate the painstaking care and prowess of the early architectures.

Baptistery of Neon

This monument was built and completed towards the end of the 5th century. It’s an octagonal tower with its eight sides symbolizing the seven days of the week and the 8th one represents the day of Resurrection.

Here you’ll see a variety of mosaics; those in the dome shows the Baptism of Christ by John the Baptist. The surrounding mosaics depict the 12 disciples in a fluid style borrowed from the pagan Greek art. What looks like a collection of lovely tiles and bright tiny glasses, on close inspection, transform into an arresting image of Jesus or a choir of angles.

The Baptistery of Neon is regarded by historians as the most relevant and complete example of the early Christian baptistery.

The above monuments are just but a few of the eight UNESCO sites that attract people from all corners across the world. Most drawings and mosaic portraits in the churches and monuments are inspired by the real and ancient Christian life. A good history of dates and events have also been preserved to accompany vivid pictures and images.

Street Food Walking Tour Of Naples With Video.

Naples is considered the homeland of authentic Italian food. Using a train to access this city that’s located on the southern side of Italy, I could not help but love its uniqueness. It’s a cool place that’s filled with friendly locals and beautiful views. Additionally, this city is rich in history thanks to ancient architecture and art.

But during my walking tour in Naples under the guidance of a local guide, one thing that completely stood out is the cuisine. As a constant traveler, there is no better way to experience a new destination other than sampling the different dishes. During my recent trip to the city of Naples, below are some of the foods that I indulged in and why they are a must-try.

Cuoppo

According to my tour guide, Cuoppo Napoletano is the real definition of the Italian street food and I couldn’t dispute that statement after tasting it. This is one of the tastiest foods that I have ever eaten. Taking a bite, this humble dish deeply engaged my taste buds and I couldn’t stop taking more bites. The mouthwatering delicacy has a distinct taste and it defines the unique Italian tradition. I learned that traditionally, cuoppo is normally made using mini-panzerottis, potato croquettes, mozzarella, aubergine, and courgetti flowers. It’s one of the trendiest foods in Italy because it perfectly represents the Italian street food. While I enjoyed taking some bites in the restaurants, Cuoppo is also a takeaway delicacy which most food lovers can enjoy eating while walking along the streets and alleys of Naples.

Crocche

Although they are popularly known as Crocche, some locals call them potato croquettes or the crochettes. With the Naples Crocche, I just couldn’t stop munching on it. Crocches have a beautiful brown appearance. They contain potato, mozzarella, and pepper.

Generally, the crocches are small in size. I could estimate that they were measuring between 3-4 centimeters in terms of length. Their dark-gold outer covering gives them an appetizing appearance. From my tour guide, I learned that Crocches are versatile. Some restaurants not only use mozzarella, potatoes, and black pepper but they enhance their taste by using additional ingredients such as eggs and Parmigiano. If you are a foodie who is planning to visit Naples, I highly recommend that you shouldn’t leave this place without taking a bite of the sweet Crocches. You can take as many as you wish just to satiate your taste buds.

Naples is filled with a wide range of local snacks and dishes. If you are a food lover like me, you might find it very challenging to choose one food. They all have tasty aromas and their appealing appearance will simply entice you from a distance. Apart from the Crocche, Arancino is another type of food that I sampled.

Arancino

They are beautiful and delicious stuffed rice balls. Arancino means one and if they are many, they are called Arancini. An arancino is a crispy and brownish stuffed ball that contains rice, mozzarella, beef, peas, and tomatoes. Tucking in my piece of Arancino, I could understand why it’s one of the popular street foods in Naples and also the whole of Italy. Additionally, they are also cost-friendly.
During my Naples walking tour and after visiting a couple of restaurants, I later learned that arancini can be made with various ingredients to create certain variations. In Naples, for instance, the most common types of Arancini which are sold in the Sicilian cafes normally have tomato sauce, meat, mozzarella, and rice. Some of them also have cheese. There are also other arancini specialties which you can engage in if you are keen enough about food exploration.

What I enjoyed during my Naples walking tour is that there are numerous restaurants and eateries which made it easier to have a taste of different foods. Besides that, having the tour guide with me made me feel like am exploring my local town. Note that Italians are real food lovers. While going for the Tarallo Napoletano, we could notice the restaurant was full to the brim, with lots of people waiting outside for empty tables. Well, this is because the foods are simply delicious and enjoyable.

Tarallo Napoletano

This is one of the street foods that I first indulged in during my Naples tour. The attractive and mouthwatering Tarallo is normally formulated to have different flavors and tastes. Taking a mouthful of this salty food, Tarallo Napoletano is one of the must-haves if you are in Naples. It is made with salt, pepper, flour, chopped almonds, lard, and yeast. Traditionally, Tarallo Napoletano is normally accompanied by a glass of wine but you can eat it alone, just like me.

Baba

Street food lovers in Naples take their Babas’ very seriously. While looking for an eatery with baba, I couldn’t help but notice that huge crowds of locals who were waiting to get a serving. Baba isn’t only a cherished and sweet dessert; its taste means that it has become a legit and iconic street food. Well, don’t be surprised if you are in Naples and someone tells you that you’re a baba, this simply means that you’re sweet.

Taking my baba with a topping of chocolate, this delicious and brownish food almost made me place another order, or even a couple more. But I realized that no matter how many babas you take, I will simply never have enough. A baba is a type of leavened dough that’s soaked in the traditional rum. While I took my baba with chocolate, you can take it with whipped cream, ham, or fruit toppings to make it look glossier.

Naples has a wide range of street foods which feature the Neapolitan traditions. They have amazing flavors and taste to cater to different taste preferences. Note that I enjoyed these foods with no cutlery or accompaniments. They can be taken from the restaurants or while enjoying a walk down the streets. All the above-mentioned street foods made my walking tour in Naples one of the most amazing experiences I have ever had. Not only are they so sweet, but they contain unique and authentic ingredients that make you want more. I mean, you’ll only take four to five bites before you realize that your delicious food is gone.

My Best Hotels in Bologna

Grand Hotel Majestic Baglioni Bologna

Grand Hotel Majestic gia’ Baglioni is a beautiful hotel in a perfect location and with friendly staff always ready to serve its guests perfectly. It is a top-notch rated hotel in Bologna positioned at the center of an 18th- century palace. Its interior furnishing suggests an ancient style which makes the hotel look artistic and decorated. I spent four nights here while I was working in the city and I had a good experience. While here, make sure you take various food of great choice including breakfast buffet, juices, and delicious fruits. The beds are incredibly comfortable. The prices charged at the level of a luxury hotel in Bologna but still affordable for one or 2 nights. I enjoyed every moment of my time when I was there and felt as if I was at home.

Majestic gia’ Baglioni hotel is located in the center of Bologna, a few meters from Piazza Maggiore and the well-known Two Towers and Bologna Central Train Station. The hotel neighbors Navile, Santo Stefano and Savena. The landmarks of the place are the city center of Bologna 10 km from the Airport, and there is also the Ducati museum.
The hotel offers spacious rooms with decorated interiors, with watercolors that makes its outlook one and only best hotel in Bologna. The furnitures of the Grand Majestic hotel usually look heavy, oaky and ornamental. It is air-conditioned and offers entertainment services to its esteemed customers through the provision of satellite Television.
The hotel offers bed and breakfast, country house, parking services and garage which extra charges are incurred when it is reserved for its customer. Its restaurant serves drinks, snacks, and other foods. Free Wifi services, private parking and.

The Grand Majestic Hotel has the following facilities: Airport collection, bar, business facilities, car charging places, free wifi and parking, gym, pool, meeting facilities, smoking areas, childcare, and spa. While there at hotel Majestic, I found out that they are a lot to its guests by providing in-room accessibility services, wheelchair accessible rooms, accessible bathrooms, and roll-in showers.

The design of the hotel is impressive and conveys a luxurious lifestyle. It is stylish and the rooms were neat and clean. Its staff is friendly, and caring.

Starhotels Excelsior Hotel Bologna

The Starhotels Excelsior is a remarkably one of the best hotels in Bologna, I just visited there for a weekend. The hotel is situated opposite Bologna Train Station. I enjoyed the friendly staff members, American breakfast I was served and the modern interior of the hotel. Its rooms look large, impressive, with a carpeted floor.
The Starhotels Excelsior is strategically located opposite to the Bologna Train Station. Even though the hotel is opposite to a railway station, the place is quiet and not noisy at all. The average price of the hotel is relatively cheap and affordable for many people. The hotel reveals one of the classic rooms and a selection of traditional food which I was served with. The rooms were clean, the bed was confy and the food and drinks were delicious. It made me enjoy being there as a guest. The personnel here were really loving and friendly and gave me an easy time talking to them since they speak in English which is a language I understand best.

The Starhotels Excelsior is beautifully decorated with modern interiors in it, its floor is carpeted on wood which makes it look superior. Its rooms are spacious and air-conditioned to give a fresh cool air into the hotel.
The facilities offered at Starhotels Excelsior includes parking, free Wi-Fi, food and drink, internet services, pets are allowed on request and are chargeable, reception services, entertainment, cleaning services, and business facilities.

Metropolitan Hotel Bologna.

The other best hotel in Bologna is the Metropolitan hotel which for now I have visited it twice. It is a five minutes walk from Bologna’s main square. It is suited to modern facilities in it and has spacious rooms. Guests enjoy visiting this place, especially for cocktailing parties on the rooftop and view the hills of Bologna which looks amazing.
When they’re at the Metropolitan Hotel, you will enjoy strolling around the Bologna’s historic Centre and have a tour of tourist attractions. It is well positioned for the airport shuttles and stations to stop over this place. The interior design is fitted with enough space, good lighting capacity, nice colors, and nice shaped rooms. The rooms are neat and always clean which makes the guests face the beauty of the hotel and feel good.
The facilities offered by Metropolitan Hotel include internet services, parking, bathroom, outdoor furniture, Kitchen, room amenities like sockets and clothes rack, living area, entertainment, food and drinks, cleaning services and reception services. All these activities are bearable to all the guests.
The lighting of the room is quality and has a television with sky channels. The bathroom has a spa bath to make the guest enjoy the services. The beds are comfortable and clean. The hotel is quiet although the hotel is situated on the main street. Breakfast was tasty and the staff was polite and friendly. Actually, I like the hotel for it is convenient and most welcoming. The surrounding environment is also good for tour services and closer to the City Centre.

In conclusion, the best hotels are located at the heart of Bologna. These are the perfect hotels one should dream of visiting in life. They offer quality services to their guest and they have a heart of welcoming. When there, one feels at home away from their actual home.