Thursday, June 6, 2019

LE MARCHE BEACHES AT ITS BEST

If you’re traveling to this region in Italy, you cannot miss the lovely Le Marche beaches. Le Marche beaches in general are lovely but be sure the weather permits sunbathing.
Long stretches of soft sand mingling with patches of gravel or rock beaches make for an interesting coastline.
Butting right up against the Adriatic, this seaside is one you must experience at least once in a lifetime.
We’ve compiled a list of the best Le Marche beaches, mainly focusing on the Conero which has the most beautiful beaches to choose from.

Due Sorelle Beach

“Due Sorelle” literally meaning two sisters, names this unique spot. Two twin rocks marks the beach, hence the name.
The beach is characterized by its crystal clear waters, smooth pebbles, and soft white sand. There are no businesses on the beach and it’s a very secluded area for adventurers and beach bums alike.
If you like to venture out into the sea, rent a kayak and paddle around the coast. Another main feature that this beach is known for is the turtle release, famous in another town called Numana.
This beach is the main spot on the Riviera del Conero. It’s a place for magical, romantic moments and has a great atmosphere for soaking in the sun.
It simply can’t be put into words. A daily ferry can take you here from the aforementioned town of Numana as well as Sirolo and Marcelli.
Due Sorelle Monte Conero. Le Marche beaches, Italy
Photo by Lino M at Flickr

Mezzavalle

This beach has an interesting entrance path. A tough but scenic trek to this beach will make the dip in the sea that much sweeter.
It takes around 20 minutes to reach the cove and the free beach through much of the surrounding vegetation.
There aren’t many businesses around this secluded beach. Come prepared with your own equipment. The main differentiation of this beach is the blue water.

San Michele

The path along the beach of San Michele is full of vegetation and wild life, along the slope of Monte Conero. Close by the beach, you can access restaurants and shops.
However, if you prefer to spend the day just feeling nature around you, this is a great place also. It’s easy to stay away from civilization and crowds here.
The views are incredible and near by, you can visit the Sassi Neri. This is a beach with dark sand. It’s a magical site and one that is well worth the trip!

Spiaggia della Scalaccia

This beach is somewhat of a lagoon. It’s a natural cove area starting from Osteria del Baffo di Pietralacroce. After walking for around 30 minutes you will reach the coastline.
It is more secluded and not very crowded. It’s a perfect spot for a more intimate-time-away from crowds and tourists.

Portonovo

This beach is for water-sports-lovers. It’s a great place for diving, windsurfing, and snorkeling. Additionally, there are many private beaches providing beach equipment, such as chairs, umbrellas, etc.
It’s very crowded during the holidays and weekends. Come early if you need to park or expect to find good spot on the free beach. Its pebbly beaches have characterized this beach.
Portonovo. Le Marche beaches, Italy
Photo by Angel Torres at Flickr

Tuesday, June 4, 2019

UMBRIA’S 10 MOST SPECTACULAR CITIES TO VISITS

ASSISI
This city can get a bit crowded. People from all over Italy and the world to bask in the views of the birth place of St. Francis, who was born in 1181. The Basilica of San Francesco is where he was buried. The religious structure is saturated with frescos by famous artists who were extremely influential in the field of painting. Among those are Cimabue, Simione Martini, and Giotto. However, aside from all the religious associations in this wildly Catholic country, the city itself is incredibly charming and well-worth the visit, even if it doesn’t resinate with your religious views or customs.
Assisi, Umbria, Italy
*
GUBBIO
Gubbio hosts a festival every year that is definitely worth checking out if your vacation times are flexible. If you can make it here during the Festa dei Ceri, you won’t regret it! If not, there’s still plenty of aspects that make the city lovely to visit. Taking the cable car up to Mount Ingino is great for a wide view of the whole city and its surrounding panoramic views. Inside the city itself, you will see surrounded mountainous scenery and the Medieval structures and feeling that still lingers throughout the town.
Palazzo dei Consoli, Gubbio, Umbria, Italy

Tuesday, May 28, 2019

LE MARCHE BEACHES AT ITS BEST

LE MARCHE BEACHES

  • Due Sorelle Beach
  • Mezzavalle
  • San Michele
  • Portonovo
  • Spiaggia della Scalaccia
  • Numana e Marcelli
  • Spiaggia Urbani
If you’re traveling to this region in Italy, you cannot miss the lovely Le Marche beaches. Le Marche beaches in general are lovely but be sure the weather permits sunbathing.
Long stretches of soft sand mingling with patches of gravel or rock beaches make for an interesting coastline.
Butting right up against the Adriatic, this seaside is one you must experience at least once in a lifetime.
We’ve compiled a list of the best Le Marche beaches, mainly focusing on the Conero which has the most beautiful beaches to choose from.

Due Sorelle Beach

“Due Sorelle” literally meaning two sisters, names this unique spot. Two twin rocks marks the beach, hence the name.
The beach is characterized by its crystal clear waters, smooth pebbles, and soft white sand. There are no businesses on the beach and it’s a very secluded area for adventurers and beach bums alike.
If you like to venture out into the sea, rent a kayak and paddle around the coast. Another main feature that this beach is known for is the turtle release, famous in another town called Numana.
This beach is the main spot on the Riviera del Conero. It’s a place for magical, romantic moments and has a great atmosphere for soaking in the sun.
It simply can’t be put into words. A daily ferry can take you here from the aforementioned town of Numana as well as Sirolo and Marcelli.
Photo by Lino M at Flickr

Mezzavalle

This beach has an interesting entrance path. A tough but scenic trek to this beach will make the dip in the sea that much sweeter.
It takes around 20 minutes to reach the cove and the free beach through much of the surrounding vegetation.
There aren’t many businesses around this secluded beach. Come prepared with your own equipment. The main differentiation of this beach is the blue water.

San Michele

The path along the beach of San Michele is full of vegetation and wild life, along the slope of Monte Conero. Close by the beach, you can access restaurants and shops.
However, if you prefer to spend the day just feeling nature around you, this is a great place also. It’s easy to stay away from civilization and crowds here.
The views are incredible and near by, you can visit the Sassi Neri. This is a beach with dark sand. It’s a magical site and one that is well worth the trip!

Spiaggia della Scalaccia

This beach is somewhat of a lagoon. It’s a natural cove area starting from Osteria del Baffo di Pietralacroce. After walking for around 30 minutes you will reach the coastline.
It is more secluded and not very crowded. It’s a perfect spot for a more intimate-time-away from crowds and tourists.

Portonovo

This beach is for water-sports-lovers. It’s a great place for diving, windsurfing, and snorkeling. Additionally, there are many private beaches providing beach equipment, such as chairs, umbrellas, etc.
It’s very crowded during the holidays and weekends. Come early if you need to park or expect to find good spot on the free beach. Its pebbly beaches have characterized this beach.
Photo by Angel Torres at Flickr

Numana e Marcelli

These beach resort towns are the family friendly Le Marche beaches that are more populated with extra things. Here you can find shops and restaurants close by and equipment rentals.
Also close to these beaches, are the Friars. There is a peaceful sensation among’st the smooth pebbles and tranquil seaside.

6 BEST BEAUTIFUL CITIES OF SOUTHERN ITALY

Southern Italy is a unique portion of the country in terms of landscapes, culture, and of course cuisine. Each city is special in its own way and ravingly beautiful. The southern Italian culture is focused even more so on relaxation, and enjoying life. Here is where you properly use the term living “La Bella Vita,” the beautiful life.

SANT’AGATA DEI GOTI – CAMPANIA

This small town has been given the orange flag award by the Italian Touring Club. It’s a beautiful example of a relaxing spot to kick back for a couple of days. There’s a ridge in the city on a tufa giving access to a panoramic view of the surroundings. As well as the area is famous for producing products of great quality. Which exports all over the world and even throughout Italy. Falanghina, a DOC designated wine, and Annurca, a high quality oil, are just a couple of examples. Many buildings in the city are well worth visiting. The Cathedral of the Assumption is particularly lovely, completed in 970 AD. The frescos of the Ducal Castle are also magnificent and the castle was built by the Longobards.
*

MATERA – BASILICATA

In 2019, Matera was named the European Capital of Culture. It is also named the city of the stones, for its rock carved historical center. This is located next to a massive gorge, cut deep into the rock dividing the territory. The historical area is the main area that people come to visit in the city., called the Sassi, and home to the Sasso Barisano which is the heart of the old city area. Also the second area looks as a makeshift amphitheater with cave home carved into the rock, called Sasso Cavesoso. This city is protected by UNESCO and is also home to many famous churches, such as San Pietro Barisano. It’s the biggest church made of rock in the city and has been recently restored to its former glory.
*

ALTAMURA – APULIA

Near the famous area of Bari, Altamura is a great small town to relax for a couple days. It’s main attraction area is its historical center and also the food and wine culture. It’s mandatory to taste the main food and wine of the region, such as the focaccia with scaldatecli and tomatoes. Coming off of the historical center are squares with unique one-way windows, characteristic of the city. It has dinosaur remains dating back to the Cretaceous period and also evidence of its Saracen origins and additional population by Frederick the II. The latter is the responsible for the construction of the cathedral.
*

LECCE – APULIA

The city of Lecce is probably the most trendy. As well as it’s home to many clubs, art, and glamorous cultural entertainment events. Food and wine tours, the sandy beaches, and transparent seas make this area an amazing and unforgettable vacation spot. The narrow alleyways and baroque style architecture, in particular the churches are the charm of the town. The Roman amphitheater, the Basilica of Santa Croce,, and Palazzo del Seggio are special architectural wonders of the city. Salento, the region in which this province is famous for its wines and relaxation opportunities.
*

PALERMO – SICILY

Italy’s largest island, Sicily, has a fantastic capital. It is that of Palermo. This is one of the places with a mandatory Hop-on Hop-off bus tours. The main attractions to see are the Palazzo dei Normanni, the Palazzo Branciforte, and the Byzantine school, known for its lovely frescos. The BallarĂ² market is an ancient feature of the city too.
Panoramic views of the city are so amazing, you can see it from Monte Pellegrino. Also, if you’re into some oddities during your travels, check out the mummified bodies in the bourgeoisie of the city as the Capuchins Catacombs. Whatever you do, do not leave Palermo without indulging in the area’s favorites, whether you prefer salty or sweet, there is something for you. Arancine, ricotta covered focaccia, or dishes of sardine decorated pasta, are some salty tries. For desert, be sure to taste a cannolo cassatelle.
*

AGRIGENTO – SICILY

In the south of Sicily, the southernmost of the southern towns of this article, lies Agrigento. The history and natural beauty of this city is beyond what you could imagine. It features large intimidating cliff sides that hang over the sea. Visit this coast at night for a starlit sky unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. The main attraction is the Valley of the Temples, a massive park that takes over most of the area. This archaeological site features the famous Scala dei Turchi, a must-see at sunset when visiting this city.

Monday, May 27, 2019

YOUR FIRST TRIP TO ITALY – 10 TIPS

TRAVEL LIGHT

Tourists, especially from the United States, are used to having escalators and elevators in every building. If this is your first trip to Italy, it is very important to note that there are many places that have only stairs. Consider this when you’re packing! I suggest packing only a carry-on if you can manage it, but if not, be sure your bags are not too heavy to lift.
Traveling light will make it a whole lot easier to get on and off the trains. This is important as the trains make very quick stops. So you need to be able to quickly grab your suitcase/or bag and get off quickly. Just imagine how difficult this might be if you have to drag a heavy suitcase!
Corinaldo, Ancona, Marche, Italy *

DON’T TRY TO SEE EVERYTHING

Since it’s your first time in Italy, we understand that you want to visit all the beautiful places. But the problem is – there’s just too many! Do not try to see everything! Italy is such a beautiful country and it can be tempting to want to see all the tourist sites that you have read about. But in reality, you are more likely to enjoy your trip by taking you time and moving at relaxed tempo.

ITINERARY SUGGESTIONS


Let’s say your first time in Italy is only 10 days, we suggest limiting your itinerary to three places. Trying to visit more places will force you to spend a large amount of your time in transit, which can be exhausting, especially if you boarded a long-haul flight to Italy and factoring in your recovery from jet lag.
It’s best to blend some relaxation and sightseeing, which always makes up a quality itinerary. A combination of the sights in Florence and Rome with other locations like Tuscany, Amalfi Coast, Lake of Como or Cinque Terre, that are more relaxed, is a good way to be sure to enjoy every place to the fullest. If you are looking to add in one or two other places that possess a “rich” Italian charm, then Venice or Verona in Veneto, Lucca or Arezzo in Tuscany, Milan or Bergamo in Lombardy, are also great choices! It’s all about finding the perfect balance without missing too much. Not putting too much into your plan will ensure a more fantastic first time in Italy.

IS YOUR TRAIN TICKETS VALIDATED?

Chances are you will be taking a train at one point or the other during your trip. If this is your first time in Italy, this is one of the most important travel tips: keep in mind that whenever you are going to take the train, there are two steps in getting your tickets. The first step is purchasing your ticket, and the second step (which is very important) is validating it.
Many tourists visiting Italy for the first time assume that once they get their train tickets, they can board the train right away. But before you board the train, your ticket must be validated by inserting it into one of the yellow validating machines strategically located throughout the train stations. They are hard to miss and easy to use.
The validating machine registers the ticket and marks the day and time of the train ride, this ensures that each ticket is used just once.
Ticket inspectors carry out routine checks to ensure that riders have validated tickets. They don’t show and sympathy for tourists, even if it’s their first time in Italy. So if you can’t find the machine or are running late and need to jump on, be sure to find a worker immediately when boarding and let them know. They will punch a hole in your ticket for you beforehand so that they remember. If you do not validate your ticket, you will be asked to pay a fine.
how to validate train ticket in Italy

HOW IMPORTANT IS RENTING A CAR?

Speaking of trains, transportation is one of the most important factors when planning a trip. And people always want to know whether renting a car is necessary or not. The advice to people traveling to Italy for the first time is that they should plan on transiting the country using the train system. It can be quite a real challenge driving in Italy, especially in the cities. In the city centers, you typically need a permit so you can end up with issues and fines that are just not worth the hassle. This is your first time in this beautiful country, lay back and enjoy it!
The Italian train system is very well-connected, so without a doubt, you can almost anywhere by train. The trains in Italy run frequently and are easy to use(remember to validate your tickets). For example, visiting cities like Venice, Rome, Lake Como, the Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre, etc. are all easily reached by train from many other cities. Check out individual train costs depending on where you would like to go or the EuroPass, which allows a certain amount of trips regardless of the cities. Either way, rest assured, you don’t need a car to experience all the wonder of Italy.

Friday, May 24, 2019

MOST MAGNIFICENT OPERA HOUSES OF ITALY

Italy has always been an important country in the development of opera. From composers to conductors, to singers, they have put out the most influential pieces within the genre, aiding in the development of it and its insane popularity, especially throughout Italy. The celebration of Italian opera is put forth through a season every year around November and December when opera houses all over the country put on a variety of performances. It’s a very important part of Italian culture in regards to its history and today. That’s Why We’ve developed a list of some of Italy’s most fantastic opera houses to present you with here.

TEATRO DELL’OPERA IN ROME

Tourists and locals of Rome gather year after year for the spectacular operas of the season. They host shows in the Teatro dell’Opera di Roma as well as offering operas in the summers out in the Caracalla baths, a large, unique complex and archaeological site. No matter the season, the shows typically consist of elaborate performances of music and dance. The combination of ancient Rome and the classical music is always a huge success.

TEATRO LA SCALA MILAN

This structure is known as the “temple of opera” being one of the world’s most famous opera houses in addition to being founded by the 1776 Empress of Habsburg in Austria! It’s one of the most elaborate opera houses and attracts people from all over the world for its unique beauty. The most famous in entertainment, culturally speaking, and in politics attend lavish nights at La Scala. The events at La Scala are some of the most important in Milan and are a cultural staple for locals and foreigners. They host events of musical compositions from Italian and foreign composers, operas, and ballet shows.

LA FENICE IN VENICE

Venice is best City and remembered typically for its Piazza San Marco. In this same district, sits this amazing structure that has undergone countless renovations before its completion in 2003. The magnificent place is even the host now of the International Contemporary Music Festival and its New Years Eve events which both take place in Venice each year. Many of the works performed here cross a line between traditional and contemporary and have been a place that is open to the experimental pieces that have helped to develop this genre of music into the dynamic item it is today.
La Fenice auditorium decoration
La Fenice Venice auditorium decoration

TEATRO REGIO IN TURIN

Rivalry city of Milan, is Turin, the north’s second working city. It’s well worth a visit for many sites and the uniqueness of the smaller city feel that it has captured. While there, the opera house Teatro Regio features a long season, October through June, of concerts and events. Everything from symphonies to more contemporary music is performed. This building is even an UNESCO World Heritage site.

TEATRO REGIO IN PARMA

Regarding the same name as the opera house in Turin, Teatro Regio in Parma has its own charm and specialities. The Verdi Festival become the host every year to celebrate the life of Giuseppe Verdi. Who is one of the best and most famous Italian composers in the story of opera. He was born in Parma so the area has a special connection to this genre of music. Additionally, the 2020 Italian Capital of Culture title was awarded to Parma, so it’s a must see for visitors.
Teatro Regio of Parma
Teatro Regio of Parma

TEATRO SAN CARLO IN NAPLES

With a long list of performances, the record most in the Campania region, is the Teatro San Carlo. It takes over a period of tens of years until a fire broke out in 1816 which destroyed everything except the foundation. After a meticulous reconstruction, the opera house come back to its former glory. But that also means it’s unfortunately not original, however you wouldn’t guess it! Traditional operas from Naples and the rest of Italy in combination with contemporary works by Italian and foreign performers come here for performing every year.
Teatro San Carlo Naples
Teatro San Carlo Naples

TEATRO PETRUZZELLI IN BARI

This theatre is the fourth largest in all of Italy! Not that we want to name drop, but everyone from Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, Liza Minnelli, to Titro Schipa, Luciano Pavarotti, and Riccardo Muti have performed here. The Teatro Petruzzelli has hosted an intense, magnificent season every year of Opera and ballet performances since its first opening in 1903.

Thursday, May 23, 2019

NATIONAL PARKS OF LE MARCHE

LE MARCHE NATIONAL PARKS

  • Sbillini Mountains National Park
  • Conero National Park
  • Gola Della Rossa and Frasassi Regional Park
  • Monte San Bartolo Regional Park
The region of Le Marche – or Marche – is a magical one for a number of reasons. Apart from the wine, food, kind people, etc, it’s abundant with natural beauty and national parks.
Much of the region is equipped with national parks, full of greenery, mountains, and rich views.
Here we’ve compiled a list of some of the region’s best main national parks to explore during your visit.

SIBILLINI MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK

The park covers nearly 700 square kilometers. This national park has been a sight to see since its establishment in 1993.
The park is mainly mountainous and stretches across the 4 provinces of Ascoli Piceno, Fermo, Macerata and Perugia.
These protected areas between Umbria and Le Marche consists of many different natural environments.
Mountains, rivers, streams, wooded forests, hills, and gorges fill this first mentioned of the national parks.
When exploring this spot, check out the Infernacico Gorge or mountain top sites such as Piani di Castelluccio di Norcia, il Redentore, and the Pizzo del Diavolo. The last literally means the devil’s beard.
Photo by FedeGrad at Wikimedia CommonsCCA-SA 4.0

CONERO REGIONAL PARK

This park features a smaller portion of land but just as beautiful. In 1987, this 60 square kilometer park spreads over the Ancona province, through Ancona, Sirolo, Camerano, and Numana.
Monte Conero gives us the unique cliff which is far from easy to trek to. Steep paths lead the way through the Conero Regional Park with views of green countryside, hills, rocky coasts, and cities.
Photo by Francesco Gasparetti at Flickr

GOLA DELLA ROSSA AND FRASASSI REGIONAL PARK

On the slope of the Apennine mountains, this 90 square-kilometer park is a natural zoo of sorts. The park is said to be the most beautiful of all the protected parks in Le Marche.
The image of the hedgehog is the symbol of the park itself for their abundance in addition to royal eagles.
The municipalities of Serra San Quirico, Fabriano, Arcevia, and Genga host this natural wondrous area. If you’re visiting, be sure to check out the Grotte di Frasassi.
Photo by Claudio.stanco at Wikimedia CommonsCCA-C 3.0

MONTE SAN BARTOLO REGIONAL PARK

Moving to the Urbino and Pesaro province, this park spreads across only 15 square kilometers.
These national parks features a section of cliffs over the coast of the Adriatic. They have a magical coastline with plenty of rural inland area. The park has a fascinating and wild environment.
View of valleys, low sea levels, and wooded areas living in harmony since the beginning of its protection in 1994.
These are just a few larger main national parks. The region is equipped with plenty of smaller areas, parks such as Sasso Simone, Abbadia di Fiastra Reserve, Simoncello Park, and Cardeto Park.