Category Archives: Destinations

Think twice before eating in the streets of Rome.

Posted on November 13, 2012 by

    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 →

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Rebellion in San Gimignano

Posted on July 18, 2012 by

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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Spotlight on Italian City Taxes

Posted on May 14, 2012 by

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 →

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1st of May & The Sweet Smell of Muguet

Posted on April 18, 2012 by

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

Posted on March 31, 2012 by

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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Saint Valentine – Love is in the Air

Posted on February 13, 2012 by

                                           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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Noel in Brussels, Belgium

Posted on December 24, 2011 by

Brussels’ most famous symbol is dressed for the occasion.  Manneken Pis poses proudly for onlookers from all over the world who gasp at his size and laugh at his behavior. One of the legends associated with the toddler recounts that he had gone missing. He father found him peeing in the … Continue reading →

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