Sardinia destinations – Alghero
The Catalan town of Alghero is located on the Northwest coast of Sardinia. Known throughout the world for its stunning beaches and characteristic old town centre it is fast becoming one of Europes holiday hotspots.
Alghero is an old fishing town that has embraced the tourist industry with two very large arms. Sprawling out along the coast line Alghero offers the tourist both the opportunity of a beach holiday or a small city break. If you are looking to just relax and be somewhere that you can walk out the door and be on the beach you must stay in the Lido area. The Lido is Algheros own beach that runs all the way form Alghero to Fertilia, a small hamlet of Alghero. There are a number of hotels located in the area with sea views and private sun beds on the beach for residents. In the summer months the Lido comes to life with a number of bars, restaurants and pizzerias either on the beach or in the area and when the sun goes down you can find live music and parties on the beach.
For those who dont want to be on the beach and want to experience a little more of the cultural side of Alghero there is the old town. Dating back to the 12th century the old town centre is truly something that must be seen to be fully appreciated. Have lunch along the battlements looking out to sea or take a stroll through the shops in the warren of cobble stone streets. There are a number of churches and historical places of interest to visit and many guided excursions to help make sure you do not miss anything.
The area of Alghero does of course spread beyond the boundaries of the city itself. There is Porto Conte with its natural wildlife reserve that spreads along the coast line in complete natural beauty. Reachable either by land or by boat excursion there is Capo Caccia and Neptunes Grotto which is a must for any visitor to Alghero.
Away form the coast there is also much to see and do. Why not visit an Agriturismo, a working farm that has lodging and restaurant facilities serving up only produce from the farm.
As mentioned earlier Alghero is a Catalan town and although much of the cuisine available is Italian there are a few Catalan influences to be found. Why not try Paella Algherese or Catalan lobster (served cold with fresh tomato and onion). There are of course many Sardinian specialities to be tried such as roast suckling pig or Seadas, a pastry filled with Goats cheese and then dribbled with honey.
The climate in Alghero allows for a perfect vacation all year round. The summer months get up to about 35 degrees and throughout the day in the winter the temperature never drops much below 15 degrees.
A great place for children and adults alike, Alghero is definitely worth a visit.
For more information take a look at Sardinia – tourist information
Sardinia destinations – Alghero
The Catalan town of Alghero is located on the Northwest coast of Sardinia. Known throughout the world for its stunning beaches and characteristic old town centre it is fast becoming one of Europes holiday hotspots.
Alghero is an old fishing town that has embraced the tourist industry with two very large arms. Sprawling out along the coast line Alghero offers the tourist both the opportunity of a beach holiday or a small city break. If you are looking to just relax and be somewhere that you can walk out the door and be on the beach you must stay in the Lido area. The Lido is Algheros own beach that runs all the way form Alghero to Fertilia, a small hamlet of Alghero. There are a number of hotels located in the area with sea views and private sun beds on the beach for residents. In the summer months the Lido comes to life with a number of bars, restaurants and pizzerias either on the beach or in the area and when the sun goes down you can find live music and parties on the beach.
For those who dont want to be on the beach and want to experience a little more of the cultural side of Alghero there is the old town. Dating back to the 12th century the old town centre is truly something that must be seen to be fully appreciated. Have lunch along the battlements looking out to sea or take a stroll through the shops in the warren of cobble stone streets. There are a number of churches and historical places of interest to visit and many guided excursions to help make sure you do not miss anything.
The area of Alghero does of course spread beyond the boundaries of the city itself. There is Porto Conte with its natural wildlife reserve that spreads along the coast line in complete natural beauty. Reachable either by land or by boat excursion there is Capo Caccia and Neptunes Grotto which is a must for any visitor to Alghero.
Away form the coast there is also much to see and do. Why not visit an Agriturismo, a working farm that has lodging and restaurant facilities serving up only produce from the farm.
As mentioned earlier Alghero is a Catalan town and although much of the cuisine available is Italian there are a few Catalan influences to be found. Why not try Paella Algherese or Catalan lobster (served cold with fresh tomato and onion). There are of course many Sardinian specialities to be tried such as roast suckling pig or Seadas, a pastry filled with Goats cheese and then dribbled with honey.
The climate in Alghero allows for a perfect vacation all year round. The summer months get up to about 35 degrees and throughout the day in the winter the temperature never drops much below 15 degrees.
A great place for children and adults alike, Alghero is definitely worth a visit.
For more information take a look at Sardinia – tourist information
Travel to England A Setting Sun, A Dawning Era
Travel to England A Setting Sun, A Dawning Era
The sun may have set on the English Empire of history books, but by no means is England’s worldly cultural influence waning. The cosmopolitan hot-spots of sophisticated London and avant-garde Manchester speak to the global future while the Roman remnants in Bath and Celtic heritage at Stonehenge stand as monumental tributes to a time past but not forgotten.
Experience England
Culinary Intrigue
The Brits may not traditionally be known, or even praised, for their gastronomic heritage; however, England has recently experienced a culinary renaissance of sorts and can proudly boast 14 of the world’s top 50 restaurants. Erase thoughts of porridge and stodge the British dining experience has abandoned its starchy past and embarked on a journey through multicultural and international cuisine, particularly in the South. England’s colonial history comes forth in London’s exquisite choice of Indian restaurants. Despite this new food wave, make sure not to pass on the Yorkshire pudding and Beef Wellington when traveling through the North, which offers exceptional renditions of more traditional dishes.
From London to Land’s End
Upon arrival in the English region of this massive island, it is important to include travel outside of London for the full British experience. England’s most southwestern tip of Cornwall is home to the legendary sea-cliffs below Penzance and the dramatic peninsula of Land’s End where a 25 mile trail will take you along some of the most beautiful stretches of ocean. Cornwall is also known for its architectural landmarks, including Cotehele, a most impressive Tudor mansion and museum along the river Tamar. Travel northeast to encounter ancient towns nestled in the picturesque countryside of The Cotswolds. This region is extremely popular for a glimpse into the idyllic English lifestyle with its 14th century stone and thatched roof cottages and cobblestone alleys. Keep in mind that the southern regions are heavily traveled in the months of July and August by locals and foreigners alike due to the warmer weather.
Farther north, the ancient spa town of Bath is famous for the 2000 year-old Roman bathhouses, which are still open to the public, in addition to Saxon ruins and the history of local Christianity told by the Heritage Vaults. Shakespeare buffs should not miss Stratford-upon-Avon, his home town located in the Midlands. Shakespeare and his family are buried at the Holy Trinity Church in the heart of town. While visiting the most northern regions, travel through York to see Europe’s largest Gothic cathedral, York Minster, and walk along the immaculately preserved medieval street of The Shambles. Even more enchanting are the still-standing city walls that enclose a magical mix of history and modernity in a city that was once the Danish capital of Viking England.
A Region of Global Heritage
Aside from England’s ancient history, no other nation has had such a hand in human progress in the modern era. At one time the English Empire encompassed stretches of the globe from Australia and India to Canada and America. England helped push the world stage into Industrial Revolution; the Midlands are home to the world’s first industrial cities. The land of Chaucer, Shakespeare and Dickens, Saxons, Celts and Normans, is an intriguing and essential journey for anyone interested in the formation of contemporary global culture.
For more information on travel to England and other regions in Europe, and discount airfare to England, visit www.cfares.com.
Travel Hong Kong: 12 Must See Places
Hong Kong features a diverse mixture of characters as a result of long British occupation and a great Chinese influence. As a state of China, Hong Kong provides a good introduction to who ever wants to know more about China without entering the mainland plus a venue for more attractions with western culture and Asian spirit.
1. Hong Kong Museum of Art Located at 10 Salisbury Rd Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, the Hong Kong Museum of Art is open to anyone who wants to take a glimpse of Hong Kongs culture and history through its large collection of over 14,000 items ranging from calligraphy, paintings, Hong Kong treasure, art objects, antiques, and lithographs. The museum is open from 10:00am-6:00pm daily except Thursday (public holidays not included).
2. Hong Kong Disneyland The newly open and the first ever Disneyland in Asia offers total fun and excitement for the whole family. The park is divided into four major attractions: Tomorrowland, Adventureland, Fantasyland, and Main Street, USA.
3. Victoria Peak Soaring 1810 feet above sea level, the Victoria Peak is premier destination for tourists who want to take a birds eye view of downtown Hong Kong, Kowloon, and Victoria Harbour. Go another step higher and take a 10-minute hike to the actual Victoria Peak.
4. Lantau Island Travel Hong Kong and take a cruise around the waters of Lantau Island and watch pink dolphins that only live in this waters.
5. Ocean Park Travel Hong Kong and visit Ocean Park. This is one Hong Kong attractions where you and your kids will have a great fun. The park is one big oceanarium containing Lowlands Gardens where pandas live, goldfish pagoda and butterfly house are located, Marine Land where atoll reef and shark aquariums are found, and Headlands amusement park where you can go and take a ride with cable cars and roller coasters.
6. Water World Travel Hong Kong with kids would never be so much fun without taking a plunge on Water World. Enjoy wave pools, play area, and water slides.
7. Middle Kingdom A miniature China that houses Chinese shrines, street scenes, temples, and palaces only at Middle Kingdom.
8. The Central district If you travel to Hong Kong because you love to shop, you better go to the central Hong Kong district where big shopping malls and several Western designer and signature boutiques are located.
9. Lamma Island – If you want to see a different Hong Kong, try Lamma Island. It hosts several outdoor activities such as swimming and hiking. And if you love to taste fresh Hong Kong seafood in great dining ambiance, Lamma Island is still the preferred place to go.
10. Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery (Sha Tin) Located at New Territories, the Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery features Buddha in different poses and colors.
11. Hong Kong Space Museum See whats in store for you in the future at Hong Kong Space Museum. The complex offers hundreds of displays ranging from telecommunications, robotics, energy, computers, and physics with hands on experience that will keep you interested.
12. Wet Market In Hong Kong, everything is fresh. And when they say fresh, they mean it. If you happen to travel Hong Kong to visit a friend or someone you know, come along when they go to wet market where the freshest among freshest seafood are for sale.
Florida The Perfect Holiday for the Kids
A convenient location, supervised childrens programs, a swimming pool, and an on-site restaurant are some of the top features parents look for when booking a kids holiday.
As the USAs top destination for families, Florida takes its responsibility seriously creating fun for the whole family.
A Florida holiday is heaven with outstanding kids programs and facilities. Kids programs have made a major mark on the standards of top Florida resorts during the past few decades. Many resorts design activities to give parents time with their kids and time alone as a couple. Florida resorts have worthy kids programs, along with accommodations that feature family friendly amenities.
Florida has long held the title of “Most Kid Friendly Holiday Destination” due to an abundance of theme parks and miles of sandy beaches. Ranging from the large theme parks around Orlando, to nature oriented kid programs in the Everglades, there is so much to see and do that the children will love!
Theres always the Disney option. Walt Disney World in the Orlando area is much more than the Magic Kingdom, the first of the Disney theme parks. The resort encompasses three other parks Epcot, Disney-MGM Studios and Animal Kingdom as well as hotels (both luxury and affordable), campgrounds, water parks, golf courses, shopping centre, dining and entertainment district.
But if you dont want a theme park on land, head to the high seas. Disney cruises are especially well-suited for families travelling with young children. Without being overpowering to parents, it is just enough for the kids to be at ease.
Florida is a magnet for families, with its double whammy of theme parks and popular beaches; but beyond the best-known spots, other great Florida family holidays await. The legendary Everglades are a wonderful place to visit, and can easily include education-as-fun as kids learn about this unique ecosystem.
The best kids holiday might be a tried-and-true theme park destinations, like Orlando; as well as educational destinations, like Washington DC with its wealth of free museums; or natures classroom, the Grand Canyon and other national parks.
In Orlando, it’s all about the kids. Hotels, theme parks, restaurants, and attractions abound for the young – and the young at heart. Most visitors are familiar with Disney World, Universal Studios and SeaWorld, but in this round-up of smaller attractions, some might discover venues that are often more affordable and convenient than their mega-theme park counterparts, making it easy for families to slip in and out for half-day or full-day visits.
Aside from water parks and Disney-centered Orlando, Florida has many other attractions that children of all ages will enjoy. Older children and teenagers can make a stop in Tampa for Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. This park is full of wild roller coasters, exciting water rides, and shows. The draw for younger children, however, is the zoo-like experience with their exotic animals. The Kennedy Space Center is a way for children and adults to have fun while learning about the past, present, and future of space exploration. At Crystal River and Homosassa between November and March kids can swim with the manatees and learn about these prehistoric creatures.
Travel Australia coast to coast: Sydney, Gold Coast, Perth
To really see Australia, try and make time to see the east coast and the west coast.
From the cosmopolitan lifestyle of Sydney to the laid back surf culture of the Gold Coast and the natural beauty of Perth in Western Australia, each state offers its own unique glimpse of this huge island continent.
Sydney: the city for all seasons
From famous Bondi Beach to the tranquil Blue Mountains, to glittering Sydney Harbour and the thriving city centre, Sydney has it all.
Transport: getting there and getting around:
You can fly direct to Sydney from major international airports. There are 40 airlines servicing Sydney airport including all the major carriers such as Qantas, Virgin and British Airways.
Sydney has a well established rail and bus system which can take you all over the city and out to regional areas and interstate. The road system is modern and easy to navigate and car hire is available at reasonable rates.
Climate: Sydney weather and seasonal variations
Sydney enjoys mild weather all year round. Australian seasons are the opposite of those in the northern hemisphere. Its the perfect escape from a cold northern hemisphere winter!
Spring is from September to November. Summer is from December to February. Autumn is from March to May. Winter is from June to August. , so it can provide a great escape from a cold winter!
Accommodation: from cheap stays to luxury resorts
Booking accommodation is easy with a huge range available. Check on the internet for the range, location and cost of hotels in Sydney.
Events: theres always something on in Sydney
Variety Club Annual Road Bash starts from Garden Island on August 5 2007 on its way to the Northern Territory
Priscilla the Queen of the Desert – the iconic Australian Musical is on at the Lyric Theatre Star City Darling Harbour
Sydney Opera House has started its Winter Season for details of what is on visit www.sydneyoperahouse.com
For the family, El Caballo Blanco is on at the Horseworld Stadium on Saturday and Sunday nights it is a show with amazingly trained choreographed horses
Gold coast: surf, sand, fun and excitement
If youre looking for a relaxing getaway with the family or an action-packed adventure with friends, a trip to Australias Gold Coast is a must.
It is just 80kms south of the major city of Brisbane which has an international airport with flights from around the world daily. You can also fly direct from other Australian cities on the domestic routes to the Gold Coast airport. Taxis, car hire, trains and buses are readily available.
From the miles of sparking beaches and nearby tropical rainforests to the famous high rise city skyline and the incredible choice of major theme parks Dreamworld, Movieworld, Steve Irwins Australia Zoo, Sea World, Wet n Wild and more the Gold Coast is Australias playground.
Not forgetting the world famous Gold Coast Indy 300, where for 4 days and 4 nights in October the streets around Southport are transformed into a high speed car racing track.
Gold Coast hotels and accommodation are available in a huge array of styles and budgets to suit everyone and the weather is sunny almost 300 days a year with temperature highs above 20C all year round. See you there!
Perth: Australia at its best
A major city buzzing with attractions surrounded by incredible beaches and outback wilderness, Perth truly is the best of both worlds. Its on the far western side of Australia and is well worth the trip.
Perths International airport is the gateway to the vast West Coast of Australia, encompassing one third of the entire continent. Shuttle buses, hire cars and taxis operate regularly between Perth and Fremantle town centres and the airports. Tour buses are also available to guide you around all the popular sites and attractions. You can choose from a wide range of Perth hotels and accommodation options to match your budget.
Explore the secluded surf beaches running for miles up and down the west coast, relax at over 60 wineries in the Margaret River region just a few hours away, or escape on to the water and spot the Monkey Mia dolphins, go whale watching, snorkel over Ningaloo reef or visit the incredible Pinnacles.
Summer temperatures average between 29C and 32C during the day, perfect for a dip or surf, and winter temperatures average 18C during the day, ideal for a long lunch with the sun on your back.
Travel to Eastern Europe: See Life Bursting at the Seams
Travel to Eastern Europe: See Life Bursting at the Seams
Eastern Europe today is an understated treasure-trove of sites, sounds and history. The exuberance for life in the post-Communist era has found expression in a proliferation of music and arts festivals, celebrations of national identity and history, and an eagerly welcoming attitude toward foreigners. Travel in Eastern Europe is a rewarding journey for those seeking insight into the most significant moments in recent history. It is also the perfect place to leave your cares behind and immerse yourself in the magical terrain and genuine hospitality of a region slowly opening its doors to the global community.
Travel Through Time in Eastern Europe
Throughout history, Eastern Europe has been continuously molded by the hands of great clashing powers. Travel through this region will reveal monumental reminders of the Holy Roman Empire, the Ottoman Empire’s struggle to retain the land, and the once expansive Austro-Hungarian Habsburg rule. Imperial palaces and exquisite national museums adorn the entire region. A journey along the Danube between Budapest and the Black Sea exposes the most heavily utilized route of human migration and invasion into Europe from the Celts and Greeks to the Mongols and Turks. The Danube is also where a fascinating fusion of cultures has occurred. Christianity and Islam met along these banks and the lifestyle of the Orient was introduced to Europeans.
During the 20th century, Eastern Europe was devastated by the Holocaust and World War II. Many of the countries were used as staging grounds for the great powers, which continued through the Cold War era. Today, visitors have the privilege of touring many of these testaments to history, including battle grounds, internment camps and abandoned Soviet bunkers.
Anyone’s Adventure
Eastern Europe boasts some of the fastest growing cities and the most energetic nightlife on the European continent. Prague, Vienna and Belgrade are a fascinating blend of unchanging history and Eastern Europe’s addiction to hyper-modernism. Additionally, winter ski resorts abound, particularly in the north and near the Balkan Peninsula, and there is no shortage of summer arts festivals; most notable are the film festivals in Vienna and Warsaw.
Travel to Eastern Europe and take part in the progressing celebration of life and nationalism in a way only post-Communist countries know how. Avoid the overwhelming crowds of its western neighbors and discover the sweet satisfying secret of traveling through this historic wonderland! For more information, visit www.cfares.com, your source for cheap airfare on the web.
Sabah Lodgings in Malaysia
Malaysia is a riot of color, tropics and relaxation. Sabah lodgings offer world travelers a tremendous vacation experience in this beautiful land.
Sabah Lodgings in Malaysia
You may not have heard of Sabah lodgings yet, but once you’ve seen what they have to offer, you’ll want to take an exotic vacation right away! Sabah is located in Malaysia, in an area surrounded by lush rainforests and tropical settings that offer many different types of recreation and adventure. The capital city of the Sabah area is Kota Kinabalu, and here is where you’ll land by plane to see the Sabah lodgings area.
If you don’t want to travel further into Sabah away from Kota Kinabalu, you can find a great Sabah place to stay within ten miles of the city’s center. Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru offers a beautiful seaside retreat. The place has 495 guest rooms, all well-equipped, and it boasts eight restaurants and bars to satisfy vacationers’ needs. The Tanjung Aru also offers many different activities, such as water sports, and amenities such as a kids’ club and even butler service available in your room! Malaysian cooking demonstrations and traditional rice wine tastings are also held here, so you can be sure to have an authentic Malaysian experience.
Another of the Sabah lodgings located near Kota Kinabalu is Sutera Harbour. Within Sutera Harbour there are two separate hotels: the Magellan Sutera, which houses 456 rooms and is ethnic-themed; and the Pacific Sutera, which has 500 rooms and caters more to the business traveler. Both hotels share access to leisure facilities, such as the golf course and country club, the Mandara spa, and the many different water sport and other sports and fitness areas. This resort is truly complete, and you could spend your entire vacation without leaving its confines. There are even 14 separate bars and restaurants spread throughout, meaning whatever you’re in the mood for, you’ll be sure to find it somewhere in the area.
While staying at Sutera Harbour, you can also take a ride on the North Borneo Railway, operated by the resort. It features a steam locomotive and six restored railway cars, and you can take a four hour tour of the Sabah main stations, all while taking a trip back to colonial times!
Sabah, Malaysia is a destination that needs to be brought into the forefront. If you are looking for an exotic island getaway and want to travel where adventure is abundant, look no further than Sabah lodgings. Staying in Malaysia is affordable and unique, and you will have some great stories to tell your family and friends.
Sail In Paradise – Yacht Charter Adventures In The Virgin
Sail In Paradise – Yacht Charter Adventures In The Virgin Islands
Looking for a relaxing and adventurous get-a-way in a paradise setting? Why not consider dropping anchor in the sizzling blue waters of the Virgin Islands aboard your own private, crewed Yacht Charter? The Virgin Islands are an archipelago of over 40 islands, islets and cays lying to the east of Puerto Rico in the Northeast Caribbean. This enticing destination offers its visitors the opportunity of exploring both U.S. and British islands. While Sailing in the U.S. Virgin Islands, featured islands might include St. Thomas with its bustling harbor, busy cruise ship docks, and abundance of world-class shops. Meanwhile, St. John, its U.S. neighbor lying 2 miles to the east, offers its visitors something completely different with 80% of its land protected within a pristine national park. Here, visitors can wander through Cruz Bay, its one quaint town, hike numerous trails, or explore an abundance of dazzling white sand beaches.
The British Virgin Islands are typically the highlight of a Yacht Charter as these islands offer its visitors the perfect blend of remoteness and Caribbean charm. Guests that have the opportunity of discovering this destination via Sailing in the Virgin Islands aboard a Yacht Charter soon discover why the British Virgin Islands have come to be known as “Natures Little Secret”. While the main island of Tortola offers a central hub, variety of shops, and convenient airport, a majority of any Yacht Charter will be spent island-hopping through the remote outer islands of Norman, Peter, Salt, Cooper, Virgin Gorda, Anegada and Jost Van Dyke. The uniqueness of this vacation lies in the ability to set sail to a new island destination each day, each with its own unique character and charm.
While Sailing in the Virgin Islands, charter guests may opt to: snorkel the Caves at Norman Island, the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s “Treasure Island” – visit a world-class resort on Peter Island or take in breath-taking views from its many hiking trails – dive or snorkel above the RMS Rhone, just off Salt Island, one of the most spectacular wreck dives in the Caribbean and the setting for the movie “The Deep” watch a remarkable Cooper Island sunset from the deck of your yacht explore “the Bath’s” on Virgin Gorda – huge granite boulders set amongst crystal-clear blue waters and powder white beaches – a must see for any Virgin Island visitor – take an exhilarating sail out to Anegada and walk its endless beaches – and finally, guests may enjoy a toast to the vacation of a lifetime at “Foxy’s Tamarind Bar” the world-famous beach bar on Jost Van Dyke!
Sailing in the Virgin Islands aboard a Yacht Charter is not only surprisingly affordable, but it also serves as an ideal vacation destination for a wide variety of groups. A Yacht Charter in the Virgin Islands is generally referred to as an “all inclusive” vacation where food, beverage, standard bar, the yacht, the professional crew, and onboard water toys are included in the rate. In addition, whether your Yacht Charter group consists of several friends, a group of couples, or a family grouping, Sailing in the Virgin Islands offers something for everyone. After all, the Virgin Islands are touted as the sailing capital of the Caribbean due to the constant trade winds and the close proximity of the islands to one another. These ideal conditions create the perfect backdrop for first-time charterers in search of protected waters and relaxing coves, as well as more experienced sailors in search of daily adventure and of course the perfect sail!
Sailing in the Virgin Islands aboard a Yacht Charter provides an exciting and unique experience for those that choose to discover it. Visitors may choose from a wide variety of featured yachts, including monohulls (traditional sailboats), catamarans and power yachts. Yacht charters provide a luxurious yet intimate setting by a professional crew whose sole desire is to cater to their guests every whim! Private onboard Chefs take great pride in tailoring a gourmet menu based upon each group’s specific preferences and dietary requirements. Professional Charter Captain’s are happy to teach the basics of sailing, let guests take the helm, and share their stories of the high seas. In addition, guests on a Yacht Charter can choose to be as active or laid-back as they like. An abundance of activities await guests, typically including sailing, snorkeling, kayaking, waterskiing, shopping, beachcombing, and perhaps diving. You’ll never run out of things to do while Sailing in the Virgin Islands. However, guests may choose to sit back, relax, take in the splendid view at each new destination, and leave the responsibilities to their professional Captain and crew.
The best time to sail in the Virgin Islands on a Yacht Charter is from early November through late June as this is the typical charter season for most yachts. Many yachts also charter in the months of July and October as these months fall outside of peak hurricane season in the tropics. It should be noted that the most popular yachts fill their charter calendars well in advance so it is recommended that a Yacht Charter vacation is booked at least 6 months in advance.
Ferrara, an alternative destination for your Italian journey
The usual trip to Italy proposes the celebrated cities of Venice, Florence or Rome. You will be often lodged in an international hotel, usually very expensive, and you will probably get an aseptic reception and a low quality price ratio. You will be quite lost in a large city area with a heavy traffic and you will share your visits to monuments and museums with mass tourism.
Sometimes it happens that small is better. You can plan instead to visit Ferrara, a small medieval and renaissance city of Emilia Romagna, in the north of Italy. It has been recently declared a Unesco world heritage site, because of its magnificently conserved ancient urbanistic structure, superb monuments and artistic treasures and the rich and varied surrounding territory. In Ferrara and its countryside you can plan your stay in a little hotel, a guesthouse, a bed & breakfast or a farmhouse where you will find a quite cheap accommodation and a warm welcome.
In Italy there is plenty of magnificent old cities, but Ferrara is something different. It hasn’t been involved in the frantic transformation and modernization that caused a lot of Italian cities to loose their identity and soul. Ferrara is, in some way, a world apart. The ancient city wall, that had in the past the purpose to defend the city from hostile military attacks, is still preserved. It prevented Ferrara to grow out of control, and also preserved the urbanistic tissue of the city. The ancient narrow alleys had been conserved and the bicycle is still the most utilized vehicle in the city. In fact Ferrara is internationally renowned as the bicycle’s city. In the 15th century Ferrara reached its maximum development, under the power of the Este family. The Maecenatism of the Dukes of Este was a very effective attractant for a lot of artists, in particular architects like Biagio Rossetti, Girolamo da Carpi, Giovanni Battista Aleotti, painters like Piero della Francesca, Francesco del Cossa, Dosso Dossi, Cosme Tura, and literates like Torquato Tasso. This offered the stimulus for the accumulation of so many artistic treasures in Ferrara and the development and renaissance transformation of the city. The Cathedral, masterpiece of Nicol, the magnificent and perfectly preserved powerful Ferrara castle, the world famous the Palazzo dei Diamanti, masterpiece of Biagio Rossetti, with its over eight thousand diamond shaped ashlars, and the superb fresco cycle of the Months in Schifanoia Palace, masterpiece of the Officina Ferrarese, a very rare renaissance cycle of paintings of profane subject, are only the main attractions of Ferrara.
Moreover, the surrounding territory is extremely rich of artistic and naturalistic points of interest, first of all the Delizie Estensi, ancient country residences of the Este family. The main of these, the Belriguardo Castle, was a little Italian Versailles where the court spent the summer time, and was celebrated by Goethe in his Italian journey.
The near Delta of the Po River is a precious naturalistic area, protected under the natural reserve of the Delta del Po Park, and is one of the best spots in Italy and in Europe for birdwatching with more than 300 different species of birds registered.
The last but not the least reason to visit Ferrara is its high quality gastronomy, with first of all the ancient Ferrara bread, the renaissance ciupta, still prepared with the old recipe and protected as an European mark IGP, with its unique and strange shape that recall in the same time the male and the female symbols, and the Salama da sugo.
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