Author Archives: Chocolate, Lace & Tapestry
Think twice before eating in the streets of Rome.
In an attempt to polish the image of the Eternal City, Roman Authorities are cracking down on public eating and drinking at historic sites. The municipal ordinance, signed by the city’s mayor, that took effect beginning of October, gives police officers the right to fine anyone caught … Continue reading
Posted in Announcements, Destinations, Europe, Food
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Rebellion in San Gimignano
The medieval village of San Gimignano, a famous Unesco Heritage site in Italy, is rebelling against the measures of austerity imposed by the Government of Mario Monti.. The town’s maire has been asked to reduce its staff by 30 percent. “It’s crazy,” laments Giacomo Bassi. “In … Continue reading
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Library book review
Bookstores and libraries have played a big role in my reading life. Growing up in Brussels, Belgium, they were within walking distance from my parents’ house. At the end of the street was a second-hand bookseller and two blocks away, a large department store. Around … Continue reading
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Spotlight on Italian City Taxes
In January 2011, Rome introduced a new tax on accommodation, amounting from 1 to 5 euros per person per night, depending on the type of lodging. The move was quickly followed by Florence and Venice. Not to be undone, Naples, … Continue reading
Posted in Announcements, Destinations
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1st of May & The Sweet Smell of Muguet
In Belgium, France and Switzerland, there is a lovely tradition of giving sprigs of lily of the valley to one’s relatives and friends on the 1st of May to wish them happiness and good luck. The muguet or lily of the valley originated in Japan … Continue reading
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The Divine Amalfi Coast
Little did I know seven years ago that a return trip to the island of Capri would eventually lead me to write the book Gelato Sisterhood on the Amalfi Shore. No other destination in Italy has captivated me as much as the spectacular Amalfi Coast. Uncovering all of its treasures has become … Continue reading
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Fries for Lunch or Dinner
When it comes to fries, Belgians cook them to perfection for the simple reason that they invented them. No, not the French. They invented Pommes Parmentier. The Belgians use large size potatoes and fresh cooking oil. The fries or frites are cut in half of an … Continue reading
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Saint Valentine – Love is in the Air
Lovers always remember romantic moments in their life; a gondola ride in Venice, a candelight dinner on the Piazza Navona in Rome, a waltz at the Emperor’s ball in Vienna or a glorious sunset at Punta Karena on the island of Capri. My notion of … Continue reading
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The Amazing Amalfi Coast
It is certainly no secret that the Amalfi Coast in Southern Italy is one of the most beautiful places in Europe. Timeworn villages clinging to vertical cliffs, scores of hairpin turns along the SS163 Costiera, deep blue Tyrrhenian waters lapping against secluded beaches and glorious romantic sunsets are … Continue reading
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Negotiating Roundabouts
Happy 2012! I hope everyone had a great start to the year. I’ve been a little delayed in posting as I had to readjust myself to the West Coast time difference. 9 hours to be exact. It takes me about a week. I … Continue reading
Posted in Announcements, Driving Tips
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Chocolate, Lace & Tapestry 