Famiglia Blog di viaggi in generale

Smart Working from a Holiday Home

Feeling uninspired by the norm, or rundown by office politics and the daily grind? Escape! The perfect remedy for employees who have lost their work mojo, as well as digital nomads in search of adventure and families juggling school holiday commitments, a Smart working can be a rewarding, life-affirming experience! In our internet-savvy age, Smart working is now a feasible solution to find your zen, by balancing your work life and personal commitments, in one exciting new location.For those exhausted by the daily commute and working full time, whilst juggling domestic duties with family responsibilities, Smart working is for you! Working remotely from a new city or exotic holiday location requires just your passport, laptop and WiFi access. With these items and holiday clothes packed, the world is your oyster! The benefits of Smart working have long been known to savvy freelancers. Being motivated and inspired by a beautiful new location and holiday home can really spur on creativity, as well as be the springboard your mind needs for a productive workday.Work, relax, repeat! The benefits of Smart working:Waking up, ‘on location’ simply lets you start the day right. Escaping the hum drum of the office and the ‘everyday’, feels truly liberating. Indeed, knowing that you’ve saved time on your daily commute, feels like a breath of fresh air! You’ll be able to enjoy some ‘you’ time first thing – from yoga, a scenic run, early morning walk or quality family time, over an unhurried breakfast, before walking just a few meters to your remote office for the day. As well as feeling more grounded in a relaxed working environment, you’ll find the incentive to finish all your work tasks within good time, high on your agenda! For one, you’ll be able to get out and explore, socialise and sightsee when you’re done. Lunch breaks can also involve anything from an alfresco lakeside BBQ, to enjoying a refreshing swim and a quick brainstorm bike ride! Whilst your working day will evidently require some structure, remember you will have all your evenings and weekends free to fully immerse yourself in the vacation half, of your stay! Shaking routines up is always an effective way to boost motivation, as well as develop your own sense of well-being and inject a new sense of fun into the norm. Remember, when a different time zone applies, you should always define your temporary work hours before you go, as well as upgrade your mobile to accept WiFi and international calls (to and from work). Just because you’re not physically in the office, doesn’t mean your presence shouldn’t be felt, or heard!For families on half-terms and long summer holidays, bringing the kids whilst Smart working means you can balance your work life and family life. Getting work done whilst also being there to spend priceless holiday moments together is a no brainer. If you’re a single parent or a couple both working remotely, then picking a holiday location with good ski schools/kids clubs and holiday camps offers a super way to make sure your little monkeys or teenagers are having fun, making friends in a safe environment, whilst you’re getting your work done for the day. Looking for anymore reasons to enjoy Smart working? Check out our beautiful holiday locations and homes here and feel inspired to check-in

Carnival season has arrived in Ticino!

Ticino Carnival time: 19 January – 29th February 2020Banish the winter blues, because the Swiss Carnival season is here!For those longing for some early signs of spring, the colourful winter carnivals of Ticino are almost here. Spreading colour and cheer across the canton, this popular, 6-week long festival has ancient, co-existing roots in Ambrosian and Roman rites. Traditionally, the carnivals of Ticino signified the time when the rich of the region would ensure the poor had enough food before fasting for Lent, to avoid starvation. Whilst the German-speaking regions of Switzerland favour flour soup as an offering, the food offering of choice in Ticino, is risotto. Today, the celebrations continue to bring confetti, masks, parades, jokes and joy to young and old alike. Ticino has an incredible number of carnivals on throughout the January and February period, so get ready to get stuck in.One of the most significant Roman-rite carnivals in Ticino is the Nebiopoli carnival, in Chiasso. Peculiarly the custom to hand over power to the people does not require a ‘king’ but instead a ‘prime minister’, who declares the town to a be a ‘free republic of Nebiopoli’ for the week. During this time, the rule of fun prevails; with masked groups and bands performing ‘Guggenmusik’ taking to the streets. The spectacle culminates in the ‘Mardi Gras Nebiopoli’. Just for good measure, the masked parade and colourful floats are accompanied of course, by the jolly Guggen music.Across the canton, many of the carnivals take place at the end of the week, following the Ambrosian rite. The busiest by far are the carnivals held in Biasca, Brissago and Tesserete, which begin in earnest on the Satuday and wind down on Sunday morning. Within these town centres, the celebrations kick off with colourful, confetti-laden street parties with Guggen bands and free risotto, served up on the Thursday night before.If you’re staying in Lugano city or nearby Locarno this January or February, then you are in luck! Both cities stage epic carnivals, whilst being within easy driving distance from the most celebrated carnival in Ticino, which is hosted by the city of Bellinzona (26-39 minutes’ drive away). Read on to learn more about these 3 Ticino carnivals:The Carnival in all Regions (Lugano & Luganese): 19 - 29th February 2020 Piazza Riforma, Lugano & Luganese towns In the Swiss lake city of Lugano and the wider Luganese region, an impressive schedule of carnivals will be taking place. The carnival festival begins in Lugano on Thursday afternoon, with the keys to the city brought to ‘King Sbroja’ before a masked procession of school children parades through the city. On Monday 24th, the city will then be serving up free risotto for all, from 11:30am onwards in Piazza Riforma (in the event of bad weather, this will take place in the Exhibition centre). Preluding the city carnival, are those in Isone (24th - 26th January), Medeglia (31st January - 2nd February), Paradiso (14th - 15th February) and Lamone (15th February), so don’t miss out! For a full programme on the Luganese ‘carnival in all regions’ festival, check out this year’s schedule here.The ‘Rabadan’ Carnival of Bellinzona: 20th - 25th February 2020Via Riale Righetti 20, BellinzonaWith the Festival name ‘Rabadan’ literally meaning ‘noise’, you can guarantee that party fever will be descending onto Bellinzona this February! Hosted by Ticino’s much-loved capital city, the festival attracts over 150,000 visitors, making it the largest carnival in Switzerland, after Basel. Starting 7 and a half weeks before Easter Sunday, the ticketed carnival kicks off on the Thursday night, when the keys to the city are handed over from the mayor of Bellinzona to the elected ‘King Rabadan’, who will rule with merriment until the following Tuesday. During this time, food tents and marquees line the streets, where live theatre, jesters and marching bands perform alongside costumed parades. Friday’s carnival is performed by the youngest participants, whilst the Saturday is greeted by Guggen carnival bands in full swing, performing well into the night. The party peaks on Sunday, during the televised ‘Grande Corteo Mascherato’ parade, with a procession of 50 music bands and carnival floats making their way through the iconic UNESCO world heritage city. For more information on how to take part and what to look forward to whilst at the Rabadan carnival, click here.The ‘La Stranociada’ Carnival of Locarno: 21st - 22nd February 2020Città Vecchia, Via Bartolomeo Rusca 2, Locarno  On average 7,000 visitors take over Locarno Old Town, for a vibrant annual 24-hour carnival. Commencing with upbeat energy on Friday night, Guggen bands perform whilst masked performers, street entertainers and party tents provide an enticing spectacle for visitors, till the early hours of the morning. Awards for the best Guggen band and the most original mask are also given out during the lively evening. The merriment continues throughout Saturday, with child-friendly entertainment and free risotto served to the crowds within Piazza Sant’Antonio. Take a sneaky peek here for the full programme and to get your tickets for this year’s La Stranociada carnival.View the full calendar of Ticino carnivals here. From the midst of Carnival fever, we hope 2020 ‘floats’ your boat!

Drink to ‘Dry January’, with our top holiday mocktails!

The ultimate holiday mocktailsWhether you’re on a ‘dry January’ health drive or you want to surprise your family and friends with some fun party drinks, these alcohol-free tipples are full of flavour and taste – making them perfect for your next getaway! Virgin Watermelon Margarita Serves: 6 Prep time: 3 hr’s beforehand, 5 minutes to make When on holiday in Europe, you’ll find an abundance of watermelons for sale at food markets and in supermarkets. When the sun is beating down, this vibrant and energizing mocktail will keep all ages hydrated and ready for some holiday fun. Firstly, chop up the watermelon into cubes and place in the freezer for 3 hours. Next, dip the rim of each glass in water before rolling the rim in granulated sugar. Next, blend the frozen watermelon cubes with the Sprite, until smooth. Pour the delicious smelling mixture into the glasses. Finish with a thin wedge of watermelon to each rim. Cheers! Ingredients:1 watermelon (diced and frozen for 3 hrs before)Can of Sprite (335ml/ 12oz)Granulated sugarFinish with: Sprig of fresh mint and granulated sugar around the rim, with a thin wedge of watermelonNote: For more of a Margarita-style edge, feel free to add a dash of fresh lime or lemon juice! Lemon & Mango Margarita Serves: 4 Prep time: 10 minutes These juicy flavours pack a punch on a cold winter’s day. You’ll taste the endless days of summer ahead, with each sip you take! Firstly, if you haven’t got these shop-bought syrups in, make your own (using the helpful notes below). Next, using a large pitcher jug, whisk the lemon juice with the 2 purees. Gently (and briefly) stir in the fizzy water. Rub a lemon wedge around the rim of each glass and then dip each rim into granulated sugar. Next, add ice and pour in the mixture, before garnishing with a lemon slice and fresh sprig of mint. Enjoy!  Ingredients:6 tbsp fresh mango puree (see note)3-4 tbsp simple syrup (see note)2 tbsp lemon juice500ml sparkling waterFinish with: Fresh mint, granulated sugar for the rim of the glass & slice of lemonNote:To make homemade mango puree, peel and cut 1 mango. Blend in a food processor, until the pulp is smooth. To make the simple syrup mixture, heat an equal 4 tbsp sugar with 4 tbsp water in a saucepan. Bring to the boil and then turn the heat down, to simmer. The sugar will dissolve in 30 seconds or so. Leave the simple syrup to cool in a room before using. Sparkling Pear Punch Serves: 10 Prep time: 10 minutes This light, bubbly punch is full of autumn promise and festive winter flavour. It’s perfect as an aperitif to accompany meat and cheese platters, whilst also offering an uplifting accompaniment to a heavy meal. Simply pour all the ingredients into a large container (except the ginger ale) and refrigerate for 1 hr – 1 day before. This will enable the flavours to infuse to their full potential. When you’re ready to serve, pour the mixture 1/2 - 2/3 of the way into the glass, topping up the rest with the ginger ale. Ingredients:4-5 Anjou pears, diced1 lemon worth of juice32oz/ 946ml pear puree2.5 cups spiced apple cider2 litres ginger ale (carbonated water flavoured with ginger)Finish with: Cinnamon stickNote:If you’re out of Pear puree simply chop up some ripe pears and mix in a blender with ice cubes, et voila!French 75 Mocktail Serves: 2 Prep time: 2 minutes For something rather elegant, a flute of this mocktail will do the trick! Firstly, add the fresh lemon juice and bitters to a cocktail shaker, which has been filled with ice. Shake till the mixture has gone frosty, then pour equal amounts into each flute. Top off with tonic water and garnish with a sugary swizzle stick. Simple, yet effective! Ingredients:2 cups iceFresh lemon juice (88ml/3oz4 dashes lemon/ orange bitters2 x (177-236ml/6-8oz) bottles of premium tonic water (e.g. Fever Tree)Finish with: A sugary swizzle stick in the glassNote: If your shop is out of sugary swizzle sticks, dampen each glass rim with lemon juice, before rolling each in 1tsp caster sugar Virgin Mojito Serves: 1 Prep time: 2 minutes Nothing beats a classic Mojito. With this recipe you’ll be able to enjoy the tempting fusion of mint and lime at any time of day, thanks to this alcohol-free version! Firstly, place the fresh mint leaves and lime juice into a glass and mush them with a ‘muddler’ (or the end of a wooden spoon) for 1 minute. Crushing the mint in this way will release the flavoursome mint oil into the mixture. Next, add the simple honey syrup and sparkling water. Cheers! Ingredients:2 tbsp fresh lime juice2 tbsp honey syrupSparkling waterIce (optional)10/15 fresh mint leavesFinish with: Sprigs of fresh mint and a slice of limeNote: To make simple honey syrup, pour a mellow tasting honey into a saucepan. Add in water, to a ratio of 1:2 (that’s 1-part honey, 2 parts water). Heat on a low heat, until the honey has fully dissolved. Abracadabra, you have honey syrup! Allow to cool before mixing. If needed store in the fridge beforehand (it remains good for up to 4 weeks in an airtight container).Also, for express drinks and larger pitchers, why not use Limeade instead? Simply take out the honey syrup and fresh lime ingredients, in favour of ¼ cup of Limeade instead.   Wherever you’re spending your next holiday, we hope you enjoy making these fun, alcohol-free holiday drinks. “Salute!”

New Year, new holiday! Check out the BEST destinations in Italy for a winter break...

We all dream of soaking up some Italian sunshine in summer, but in winter? Indeed! Italy provides an enchanting back drop for winter getaways. With the most of the crowds gone home, you’ll be able to explore these top Italian destinations at your pace, and at your leisure. The pricey accommodation rates also drop, so you’ll have more in the holiday budget for luxury moments and fun. A holiday treat indeed! Italy's top winter-friendly holiday destinationsItaly boasts some truly remarkable cities to visit in winter. Picture gliding on a gondala through the atmospheric fog of Venice, sightseeing aroud the ancient colosseum and sites of Rome in the snow, exploring the  tranquil backstreets and piazzas of Florence on a crisp winter’s day, and soaking up the cosmopolitan flair of Turin, before you head off for a ski break in the Alps. These world-class cities are ready to greet you on your next adventure! VeniceBest time to visit in winter: January-February (for quiet piazzas, masked balls & Valentine’s Day!)With crisp, clean air to breathe in and tranquil waterways to discover in January, the city of Venice is a beautiful place that will inspire the senses. With its numerous masked balls and carnivals, February is always a colourful time to visit Venice and seek amusement in the long winter months. Why not beat the winter blues, with a ticket to a fabulous masked ball? An eccentric evening of costumed decadence will stay with you always! Of course, Venice is one of the most romantic holiday destinations in the world. Treating that special someone to a Valentine’s weekend in February will always be an unforgettable way to woo the one you love.RomeBest time to visit in winter: December (for beautiful traditions & Christmas lights) and early springWhen in Rome, visit the Vatican and take a private tour around the ancient Forum. The quiet serenity of winter will certainly add to the VIP feel! The eternal city is breath taking in December, with the magical Christmas lights, decorated delicatessens to buy edible (and drinkable) gifts from and the traditional Nativity scene at St Peter’s Square to admire.FlorenceBest time to visit in winter: New Year’s and late winter (for the early signs of spring)Self-confessed ‘Tuscanites’ will feel like they have the keys to Florence in winter; with the chaotic queues of summer a distant memory. Enjoy the wealth of art on offer at the Uffizi Gallery and take a private tour to uncover the rich stories and cultural sights . A drive out into the Tuscan countryside also offers a magical way to enhance your winter stay; with picturesque landscapes that glisten with frost. TurinBest time to visit in winter: During the ski season, before you head off into the Alps!Tempted by a pit stop in Turin? You won’t regret it! Enjoy the shops and make time to savour the famous Piedmontese drink ‘Bicerin’ (a decadent coffee, chocolate and cream drink). The best in town can be found at ‘Caffe Al Bicerin’. The Alpine-inspired cuisine on offer in the cities’ restaurants will also not disappoint food lovers out there! Luckily for those staying October – January, the wintertime and darkening evenings also set the perfect ambience for Turin to showcase its annual ‘Luci d’Artista’. The vibrant light festival brings illuminations and joyful displays to all parts of the city. The atmosphere will truly ‘light up’ your city break!And for some winter sun?There’s the south of Italy! The weather from Lazio southwards remains wonderfully pleasant and temperate throughout the wintertime. Naples and Sicily are timeless favourites for those in search of winter sun.Naples & the Amalfi coastBest time to visit in winter: December-January, to make the most of the sun-drenched beaches, UNESCO sites and nativity lights, without the crowds!Perfect for hikers and those in search of a scenic road trip, the Amalfi coast offers guaranteed winter sun for an out-of-season escapade. With breath taking coastal paths and festively-decorated cities and towns to visit such as Salerno and the buzzing city of Naples, this region will keep you captivated throughout the winter. As well as the seasonal Christmas lights, traditional and modern interpretations of the nativity scene (known as 'presepi') take over the Amalfi coast and Naples from December – January; with those in ‘Piazza del Plebiscito’ and along ‘Via San Gregorio Armeno’ the most heavenly. Salerno offers breath taking light displays (Luci d’Artista), whilst Limatola Caserta hosts ambient Christmas markets and lights to beat get you in the mood.Except for a couple of key dates, the UNESCO world heritage sites of Pompeii, Herculaneum and Torre Annunziata are open throughout the winter, so make time in your holiday to discover these incredible places. After an action-packed day of exploring the coast, savour some delectable festive bites (including panettone) at the regional institution of ‘Pansa Pasticceria’, which is located in Amalfi’s historical cathedral square, 'Piazza del Duomo'. The New Year celebrations and regional music concerts are also worth staying for!SicilyBest time to visit in winter: For the Christmas markets, visit in December. For the optimal winter sun experience, visit January-February!The Italian island of Sicily guarantees welcome if not exotic, sun in the depths of winter. Soak up the sunshine whilst exploring Palermo (one the main settings for di Lampedusa’s iconic novel, ‘The Leopard’). With grand yet neglected buildings providing a romantic, aristocratic air to the bustling modern day streets, exotic palm trees and cultural attractions, this is colourful city of contrasts. Palermo also offers a host of Christmas markets if you’re around December-early January. The nearby town of Termini Imerese (30 minutes’ drive away) performs a live nativity play in the streets, complete with belly dancers! The medieval coastal town of Cafalu also promises beautiful beaches, for those looking to make the most of the fantastic weather.Wherever you find yourself this 2020, we wish you an exciting year of happy holidays!  “Buon viaggio!”

Piatti natalizi tradizionali da tutta Italia

Come in altre parti del mondo, anche in Italia il Natale è un momento di festa e di allegria. Le 20 regioni italiane celebrano tutte le festività con i propri piatti natalizi. Anche se gli ingredienti variano, il filo conduttore è che i piatti sono cucinati con ingredienti di alta qualità e infine, verranno consumati insieme ai propri cari. Ed è questo piacere per la vita che rimane al centro di tutti i veri piatti italiani!  Quindi, per celebrare il Natale nel vero stile italiano, vi proponiamo i piatti natalizi italiani di tutto il Paese!  Celebra il Natale all’ italiana con un pezzo di panettone e un bicchiere di spumante La Vigilia di Natale La cena della Vigilia di Natale in Italia era considerata un giorno di digiuno prima del sontuoso banchetto del giorno di Natale, ma oggi è fortemente incentrata sul pesce e i frutti di mare. Questa usanza culinaria romano-cattolica è rimasta radicata in molte famiglie italiane in tutto il mondo, persino tra gli italo-americani.   L'usanza è nata nel Sud Italia, dove il pesce fresco è abbondante, oltre ad essere squisito!  Allo stesso modo, la comunità italo-americana osserva la tradizione di questo banchetto a base di pesce, soprannominandolo la Festa dei Sette Pesci (Feast of the Seven Fishes). Il modo più semplice per osservare la tradizione italiana della Vigilia di Natale, quindi, è semplicemente quello di astenersi dalla carne e di mangiare del pesce.  La festa dei sette pesci per celebrare un Natale tutto italiano  Una tipica cena per la Vigilia di Natale in Italia prevede una serie di portate. Di solito si inizia con il merlano al limone, seguito da un piatto di spaghetti alle vongole o alle cozze, prima che venga servito il baccalà. In seguito, molte famiglie potranno gustare numerosi piatti a base di pesce, tra cui il pesce spada, il tonno, il salmone, i calamari fritti, l'aragosta ripiena al forno, l'insalata di polpo, l'insalata di lumache di mare e le linguine ai frutti di mare, solo per citarne alcuni.   Ad accompagnare questa gustosa selezione ci saranno verdure, piatti di pasta, prelibatezze al forno e vino.  Il giorno di Natale all'italiana: la festa delle feste!  Dopo la Vigilia di Natale, la vera festa può iniziare... I piatti regionali del giorno di Natale tenteranno le vostre papille gustative! Un banchetto di Natale italiano inizia tipicamente con un antipasto di stuzzichini freddi e caldi, seguito da un primo piatto (di solito a base di pasta o di carne). Si passa poi al secondo piatto principale (di solito uno piatto di carne o di pesce), accompagnato da gustosi contorni come carciofi fritti, cavolfiori, finocchi gratinati e patate arrosto.   Per dessert si offrono noci, frutta secca e torrone morbido o duro, oltre a una selezione di dolci locali e gli immancabili panettone e pandoro. Il tutto viene annaffiato da del liquore digestivo o da del caffè. Il soffice e profumato panettone con uvetta e frutta canditaAllora, cosa mangiano gli italiani a Natale? Come promesso, vi accompagniamo nel viaggio culinario una regione alla volta...  Lombardia e Nord Italia  In Italia, Il cappone (o gallo) è la tradizionale alternativa natalizia al pollo, e la Lombardia non fa eccezione. La versione regionale classica del cappone è quella ripiena, con ripieno a base di noci o castagne. Per tradizione, il cappone compariva su tutte le tavole del paese.   Oggi, durante la cena si è soliti servire una versione bollita come preludio a quella arrosto. Dal cappone si ottiene anche un delizioso brodo, quindi non c'è spreco! Con il brodo di cappone si prepara, infatti, il tradizionale primo piatto di Natale lombardo, il Risotto Giallo (un colorato risotto allo zafferano). Il semplice ma sontuoso Risotto Giallo  In Veneto, la polenta viene servita accompagnata al baccalà di stagione. In Liguria, l'antico piatto del Cappon Magro è un vero spettacolo! Questa elaborata insalata della Riviera italiana è preparata con verdure colorate, pesce e frutti di mare freschi. Questo piatto iconico è stato a lungo un piatto popolare del digiuno cattolico per la Vigilia di Natale, anche se con la sua elaborata esposizione adorna molte tavole anche il giorno di Natale.   Non tutti i Cappon Magro sono uguali. L'insalata a più strati comprende pomodori, cetrioli, peperoni, lattuga, olio d'oliva, tonno e uova sode, accuratamente decorati con pesce e frutti di mare freschi che vanno dal pesce bianco ai gamberi e all'aragosta. Gli ingredienti misti sono stratificati a comporre una cupola, con un gamberone o un'aragosta come elemento decorativo. Lo stuzzicante Cappon Magro con gamberi, un tipico piatto natalizio della Liguria In Emilia Romagna, i cibi tradizionali delle feste sono il Cotechino e lo Zampone che spesso vengono serviti insieme. Il Cotechino è il padre dei salumi, essendo ricavato dalla cotenna e dalle parti più pregiate del maiale. La carne macinata viene aromatizzata con erbe e spezie prima di essere racchiusa in un budello. Lo Zampone, invece, è una zampa di maiale ripiena di carne macinata e cotenna maiale, condita con erbe e spezie festive. Queste prelibatezze natalizie sono accompagnate da un saporito piatto di lenticchie e purè di patate.  E per il dolce? C'è il Panettone! Nato nel 1500 a Milano, questo dolce natalizio è apprezzato in tutta Italia. Ricco di canditi e uvetta, è molto popolare in tutte le famiglie e tra tutte le generazioni. A Verona, gli abitanti preferiscono una versione più leggera e dolce conosciuta come Pandoro, che viene consumata in tutto il Paese. Questa versione è generalmente priva di frutta e decorata in cima con una spolverata di zucchero a velo.   Ad accompagnare i piatti tipici delle feste liguri c'è la versione tradizionale genovese, il Pandolce (o torta genovese). Questo delizioso dolce natalizio viene preparato con frutta secca, uva sultanina, pinoli e liquore al marsala. È una delizia anche per tutto l'anno!  Lazio e Toscana (Italia centrale)  Come è consuetudine a Roma, il pranzo di Natale inizia con una zuppa di Stracciatella o Tortellini, seguita da un classico piatto di pasta (come Cannelloni o Lasagne). Il piatto principale è l'agnello arrosto brasato con aglio, rosmarino, aceto e acciughe, con una invitante porzione di patate arrosto. Il succulento agnello al forno con pomodorini e patate  Il pasto principale è accompagnato da carciofi e da un'insalata di Puntarelle, o un’insalata di Misticanza (insalata verde mista tradizionale). Per quanto riguarda i dolci delle feste a Roma e nel Lazio, il panettone, o la sua versione più tipica, il Pangiallo, adorna le tavole di tutte le famiglie laziali, diventando uno dei dolci natalizi più famosi d'Italia.  Un consiglio: Non alzatevi da tavola assetati, provate questi mocktail festivi!  In Toscana, il primo piatto del giorno di Natale è costituito dalle tradizionali Crespelle alla Fiorentina (crespelle di ricotta e spinaci in salsa di besciamella) o da un piatto di pasta all'uovo, farcita con patate o spinaci e ricotta, seguito dal piatto principale di Arista arrosto alla toscana con patate o fagioli. Per concludere la cena di Natale italiana, il dolce regionale preferito è il Panforte (una torta di torrone dolce e morbida).  Suggerimento: Se non riuscite festeggiare un Natale italiano, potete festeggiare una Pasqua italiana!   Il panforte della regione Toscana, deliziosamente ricco, con frutta secca e zucchero a velo  Italia meridionale  Il principale piatto festivo pugliese è il baccalà, arrostito, cotto al forno o fritto. In Campania e in Puglia, l'ingrediente chiave per un banchetto festivo in famiglia è l'anguilla femmina, la più grande delle anguille, perfetta per essere condivisa. In Puglia l'anguilla viene cucinata alla griglia, mentre i campani la gustano fritta o arrostita. Infatti, la carne oleosa dell'anguilla la rende ideale per le grigliate e le fritture. In Campania si serve anche la più salutare Minestra Maritata.   In Sicilia, un piatto di pasta al forno croccante come gli anelletti è molto popolare durante le feste. In Calabria si serve, sulla tavola delle feste, la tradizionale pasta fatta in casa con il ragù. La Basilicata offre un gustoso piatto festivo a base di baccalà con peperoni di Senise essiccati al sole, che qui crescono in abbondanza e che al sole maturano in tutta la loro dolcezza. Comfort food e piatto natalizio siciliano, gli Anelletti al forno con mozzarella   Ovunque festeggiate il Natale, speriamo che portiate con voi i sapori dell'Italia.  Buon Natale!  Vi state chiedendo cosa mettere in valigia per il vostro Natale o per una vacanza invernale in Italia? Leggete la nostra guida completa! 

How to choose the right ski resort in the Alps?

Embarking on a winter escapade to the snowy slopes is an exhilarating prospect, but with a plethora of ski resorts scattered across the Alps, finding the perfect alpine haven can be confusing. Whether you're a seasoned skier seeking challenging terrain or a snow bunny eager for gentle slopes, the key to an unforgettable ski holiday in alps lies in choosing the right resort.  In this guide, we'll march through the considerations, plow through the options, and help you navigate the powdery landscape to discover the Alpine ski resort that aligns seamlessly with your winter dreams. From slope conditions to apres-ski scenes, find out what to look for when selecting the ideal winter wonderland for your next alpine adventure. Here we go... Are you ready to jump in the snow? What to look for when choosing a ski resort? Choosing a ski resort and planning a ski holiday involves considering various factors to ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience. Here are some key aspects to consider: Skill Level: Consider your skiing or snowboarding skill level. Some resorts are better suited for beginners with gentle slopes, while others offer challenging terrain for advanced skiers. Terrain and Trails: Look at the variety of terrain and trails available. Some resorts are known for their groomed slopes, while others may offer more backcountry or off-piste options. Snow Conditions: Research the average snowfall and snow conditions during your preferred time of year. Resorts at higher elevations or in regions with reliable snowfall are often more snow sure. Resort Size and Amenities: Consider the size of the resort and the amenities it offers. Larger resorts may have more extensive trail networks, while smaller ones may offer a more relaxed and easy-going experience. Apres-Ski Activities: Look into the après-ski scene, including dining, nightlife, and other activities available after a day on the slopes. Accessibility: Consider how easy it is to get to the resort. Look for nearby airports, transportation options, and the distance from your accommodation to the slopes. Family-Friendly Features: If you're skiing with family, check for family-friendly amenities such as ski schools, childcare, and activities for non-skiers. Budget: Determine your budget for the trip, including lift tickets, accommodation, equipment rentals, and meals.  Events and Festivals: Check if there are any special events or festivals happening during your visit. For instance, in the Chamonix valley, once the ski season starts, so do many world championships like the Kandahar World Cup in Les Houches. Events like these can add to the overall experience of your ski holiday! Ski School and Instruction: If you're a beginner or looking to improve your skills, inquire about the quality of the ski school and the availability of lessons. What are the best ski resorts in Europe? Livigno - Lombardy, Italy Best for: Duty-Free Shoppers: Livigno's status as a duty-free zone makes it attractive for those who enjoy shopping and taking advantage of tax-free goods. Freestyle Enthusiasts: The Mottolino Fun Mountain, Livigno's snowpark, make it a great destination for freestyle skiers and snowboarders. Mountain bikers: With the arrival of the beautiful season, Livigno's bike area is finally reopening, ready to welcome all enthusiasts of two-wheeled excursions on its 3,200 km of GPS-mapped trails. Skiers going down the vast pistes of Livigno Why Livigno? Long ski season (typically, from the end of November to early May); 115 km of manicured slopes (29 Blue Slopes, 37 Red Runs and12 black runs) 3 snow parks devoted to freestyle and snowboard enthusiasts; Home to the Mottolino Fun Mountain, one of the best snow parks in Italy, which makes Livigno a great resort for non-skiers too Excellent cross country skiing (with a 30km trail, typically open from October); Biathlon facilities (combo of cross-country ski & shooting); Approx. 150 certified and trained ski instructors on hand to teach adults and kids; Modern resort infrastructure: 6 cableways, 13 chair lifts and 11 ski lifts; Night-time skiing facility and all-weather family activities, leisure activities and spa; Serviced by a wealth of cafes, restaurants, bars, live music venues & clubs. Stay with us in Livigno and enjoy free ski passes! Chamonix - French Alps Best for: Advanced Skiers and Mountaineers: Chamonix is renowned for its challenging terrain, making it suitable for advanced skiers and mountaineers seeking thrilling experiences. Scenery Lovers: The stunning views of Mont Blanc and the surrounding Alps make Chamonix appealing to those who appreciate breathtaking landscapes. Foodies: Enjoy the earthy Haute-Savoie cusine and the fancy Michelin Restaurants in the area Enjoy this amazing panoramic view from Le Brevent viewpoint in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc This ski resort needs no introductions…The only place to climb, ski and be seen, the French Alps resort of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc near the Swiss Italian border provides picturesque scenery and a whole lot more! Situated at the base of Mont Blanc (Europe’s tallest mountain), this well-established resort provides a year-round destination for outdoor sports and adventure, attracting some 5 million visitors each year. With 47 ski lifts, Chamonix also offers easy access to the ski resorts of Les Grands Montets, Brevent/ Flegere, Le Tour/ Vallorcine, L’Aiguille du Midi/La Vallee Blanche, and Les Houches, totalling 119 km worth of terrain. These Chamonix-valley resorts are linked together by a frequent bus service. Why Chamonix? It’s a purpose-built, year-round ski resort with a buzzing, pedestrianised centre A worldwide mecca for skiers, climbers and outdoor sports enthusiasts Boasts 157 km of pistes, unlimited off-pistes + 42 km of cross-country runs Les Grands Montets, Brevent & Flegere, Le Tour-Balme & Bellevue snow parks Off-piste skiers will relish the 20km Vallee Blanche glacier run The place for worldwide ski instructors to qualify, teach and test their metal! Year-round cable cars: including the scenic Aiguille du Midi and Skyway Monte Bianco A host of dedicated kids’ clubs, ski schools and family-friendly activities Serviced by train, shuttle and road links, resort bars, restaurants and top designer shops. A resort with countless year-round leisure activities Relax and replenish the senses at the resort’s new luxury QC Terme Spa!  Stay with us in Chamonix! Sestriere Ski Resort (Vialattea) – Italian Alps Best for: Ski-In/Ski-Out Enthusiasts: Those who prefer the convenience of ski-in/ski-out accommodations may find Sestriere particularly suitable. Snow sure slopes: Being one of the highest ski resorts in Europe, Sestriere gives you the guarantee of snow sure slopes All-Season-Long! All skiing abilities: From beginners and intermediate to advanced skiers, you’ll find suitable ski runs in Sestriere along with the option of booking ski lessons with trained professionals. The lovely view from our Belvedere apartments in Sestriere With excellent access to all the resorts of the Milky Way, including Montgenèvre in France, Sestriere with its effortless accommodation is ideal for those seeking maximum time on the slopes. The resort’s snow-sure slopes, with Sises, Motta and Banchetta being the top choices and some of the highest altitudes around, make Sestriere an ideal base for a long ski holiday. And if you really want to know how thrilling a ski experience would be here, then the resort offers night-time skiing and has snow-making machines that can cover up to sixty percent of the entire ski area! Why Sestriere? Access to five other ski resorts, including Pragelato, Sauze d’Oulx, Claviere, San Sicario, Cesana in Italy and Montgenèvre in France. Cross-country and adventurous night-time skiing.  Budget and family-friendly ski-in/ski-out accommodations. Ski passes delivered to your accommodation.  Snow sure pistes, being one of the highest ski resorts in Europe, with an altitude of 2823mt at Motta and 2600mt at Sises! Find your convenient accommodation in Sestriere!To get the full guide to the Milky Way Resorts, check it out here. Bardonecchia Ski Resort – Italian Alps Best for: Skiing weekends: This Piedmont town is close to the metropolitan city of Turin, making it perfect for weekend getaways, and has been a popular ski resort for more than a century! Beginners and intermediate skiers: Long red and blue slopes, with the possibility of off-piste skiing and open runs make Bardonecchia ideal for those just starting out on the slopes or those who want to better their skiing skills. Variety of high-altitude ski areas: Enjoy three different ski resort areas, with free ski shuttle to nearby ski resort of Jafferau. Value for Money: Including all the prices (ski pass, ski boot hire and lessons) Bardonecchia is “considerably better value for money” as compared to 36 others ski resorts in December 2023.   Soak up stunning views while skiing in and around Bardonecchia Just a 90-minute drive from Turin, the small yet highly convenient and budget friendly resort of Bardonecchia has been a popular playground for skiers and snowboarders due to its high-altitude slopes, ranging from 2400 to 2800 mt at the maximum. The resort is especially ideal for families and over-the-weekend skiers who flock to its 100 kms (about 62.14 mi) of slopes serviced by 22 ski lifts. Staying in the centre allows guests to easily access Bardonecchia’s three skiing areas; Colomion-Les Arnauds, Melezet (with the starting point at Campo Smith Slopes) and Jafferau, within minutes. Why Bardonecchia? Quick weekend skiing and snowboarding Varying altitudes ranging from 2400 mt to 2800 mt Long (winter to spring) season with endless possibilities for off-piste skiing Value for money ski resort with some of the most scenic views around Val di Susa Book your accomodation in this lovely ski resort! South Tyrol Ski Resorts - Italian Alps Best for: Gourmet Dining and Casual Skiers: Alta Badia, with its focus on gourmet dining and a variety of slopes, is suitable for both serious skiers and those who want a more leisurely experience.  Ski Circuit Enthusiasts: Sella Ronda is perfect for skiers who enjoy exploring a variety of slopes around the Sella massif in a day. A breathtaking view of Val di Fassa, in the Dolomites Alps Nestled in the heart of the Italian Alps, South Tyrol beckons winter enthusiasts with its enchanting ski resorts offering a scenic blend of natural beauty and diverse skiing experiences. From the vastness of the Dolomiti Superski, one of the world's largest ski areas, to the gourmet delights of Alta Badia and the circular adventure of Sella Ronda, South Tyrol caters to skiers of all levels. With picturesque landscapes, charming alpine villages, and a rich cultural heritage, a ski holiday in South Tyrol promises not just exhilarating runs down pristine slopes but also a captivating journey into the heart of the Italian winter wonderland. Immerse yourself in the charm of South Tyrol's ski resorts and create lasting memories in this snowy haven. Why should I ski in the Dolomites? The Dolomites are renowned for their breathtaking and dramatic mountain scenery.  Cater to a range of skiing preferences, from gentle slopes for beginners to challenging descents for advanced skiers. You can explore wide-open slopes, tree-lined runs, and thrilling off-piste terrain. Known for their impeccable grooming standards.  This interconnected ski carousel allows you to explore multiple resorts within the Dolomiti Superski region with a single ski pass.  Rich culinary experience. Enjoy traditional Italian and South Tyrolean cuisine in charming mountain huts and alpine restaurants! Wide range of winter activities, including snowshoeing, ice climbing, and winter hiking.  Charming mountain villages, historic sites, and local festivities. Benefit from favorable snow conditions, providing a reliable and consistent snowpack throughout the ski season.  Boast a well-connected network of ski resorts, making it easy to explore different areas and experience a diverse range of slopes without extensive travel. Stay with us and explore the wonders of South Tyrol! Whether you are tempted by accessing the cross-country ski slopes in Vialattea (The Milky Way), the captivating pedigree of Chamonix or the Italian hospitality and delicious food of Livigno, our top Ski resorts promise to provide the perfect winter escape for you. Enjoy! 

Scopri Porlezza, Valsolda e gli altri gioielli della riviera italiana del Lago di Lugano!

Il Lago di Lugano, una delle zone più belle della Lombardia, attrae visitatori da centinaia di anni. Scrittori, compositori e pittori sono stati ispirati dal suo splendido paesaggio e dalle sue acque limpide. Giuseppe Antonio Borgese, famoso scrittore italiano, scrisse addirittura che:   Lugano è come un cuore azzurro nel petto verde della Lombardia. Splendida vista sul Lago di Lugano e sul Monte San Salvatore  Tuttavia, il Lago di Lugano non è interamente un lago italiano. È piuttosto diviso in due paesi e rientra nel distretto lacustre svizzero-italiano. Quindi, dove si trova esattamente:  Il Lago di Lugano è in Italia o in Svizzera?   La risposta è: entrambi!    Il 63% del Lago di Lugano si trova in Svizzera, mentre il resto è in Italia.  La parte italiana del Lago di Lugano comprende l'estrema sponda occidentale, da Lavena Ponte Tresa fino a Porto Ceresio, e l'area intorno alla sponda nord-orientale, che comprende la splendida Valsolda e la bella cittadina di Porlezza.   Sulla sponda orientale del lago si trova anche l'enclave di Campione d'Italia, un piccolo pezzo d'Italia circondato dalla Svizzera!   Vale la pena visitare il Lago di Lugano, soprattutto la parte italiana?    Bella vista sul lago di Lugano, riviera italiana  Incastonata tra il Lago di Como e il Lago Maggiore, quest'area è la base ideale per una vacanza rilassata a breve distanza da molti luoghi interessanti. Le sponde settentrionali intorno a Porlezza e Valsolda combinano alcuni dei paesaggi più scenografici d'Europa con splendide ville, borghi affascinanti, escursioni storiche, sport acquatici e delizie culinarie. Ora tocca a voi scoprire questo incantevole angolo d'Italia con la nostra ultima guida!   Valsolda: splendidi borghi, ricca storia e un gigantesco patrimonio letterario  Sulla sponda settentrionale di Lugano, il gruppo di nove graziosi villaggi lacustri e montani che compongono la Valsolda offre una destinazione di vacanza perfetta che unisce relax e avventura. Ogni villaggio ha una storia unica e antica, spesso collegata da storiche vie commerciali.    Le pittoresche strade di Castello, Valsolda  Escursioni, passeggiate e ciclismo nella natura della Valsolda   Favorita da un clima soleggiato, da una vegetazione rigogliosa e da boschi ricchi di fauna selvatica, la Valsolda è dominata dalle Prealpi, dette anche “Piccole Dolomiti”. Queste pareti rocciose svettano su una Riserva Naturale Valsolda di 318 ettari, la più grande della Lombardia, con 90 ettari di sentieri e aree protette dedicate a camminatori, escursionisti e ciclisti.   Dalle montagne al lago, i visitatori possono esplorare molti dei sentieri escursionistici della zona e i migliori percorsi ciclistici intorno ai laghi svizzero-italiani!  Il ricco patrimonio storico e letterario della Valsolda  La Valsolda ha prodotto diversi giganti della cultura che hanno lasciato il segno nell'arte e nella letteratura italiana ed europea.   Antonio Fogazzaro (1842 - 1911), candidato 7 volte al Premio Nobel per la Letteratura, ha scritto molte delle sue opere iconiche nell'idilliaca Villa Fogazzaro ROI Oria, in Valsolda. I visitatori possono fare un tour della casa, che è cambiata pochissimo dai tempi dello scrittore, e passeggiare nei deliziosi giardini sul lago con i glicini che fioriscono in primavera.  Suggerimento del redattore: se ami i giardini sul lago, allora amerai assolutamente questi soggiorni in riva al lago. Giardino di Villa Fogazzaro Roi, residenza estiva dello scrittore italiano Antonio Fogazzaro  Ciascuna delle frazioni della Valsolda, comprese quelle raffigurate nel romanzo di Fogazzaro “Piccolo Mondo Antico”, costituisce una meta affascinante. Un itinerario consigliato è quello di partire da Porlezza, costeggiare il lago fino a Cressogno e poi salire in collina fino a Loggio, Drano, Puria, Dasio e Castello. Sette villaggi possono sembrare molti, ma il tempo di guida complessivo è di soli 25 minuti, quindi hai tutto il tempo per fermarvi e godervi ogni luogo.  Consiglio: soggiorna in Valsolda se vuoi goderti un relax lento e ricco di natura, letteratura e storia.  Incantevole Porlezza: strade acciottolate, riserva lacustre, sapori locali e caffè La bella Porlezza riflessa sul Lago di Lugano  Sulla punta settentrionale del Lago di Lugano, a soli 15 minuti di auto dalla Valsolda, l'incantevole cittadina di Porlezza è incastonata tra le montagne boscose e la riva del lago. Le sue radici medievali sono ancora visibili nel centro storico e nelle imponenti chiese barocche Chiesa della Santa Madre e di San Martino.   La passeggiata sul lungolago della città è particolarmente bella e le stradine tortuose offrono molti ottimi ristoranti, cafè e negozi. C'è anche una piccola spiaggia per fare il bagno nel lago e il mercato settimanale del sabato è un buon posto per raccogliere prodotti freschi locali come formaggio e carne.   Una visita obbligata a Porlezza: la tranquilla bellezza della Riserva Naturale del Lago di Piano  Il fiore all'occhiello di Porlezza è la Riserva Naturale del Lago di Piano, un importante santuario per gli uccelli acquatici, protetto dall'Unione Europea. I visitatori possono noleggiare biciclette elettriche ed esplorare questa destinazione popolare o godersi un facile sentiero a piedi intorno al lago, attraverso una natura incontaminata con cervi e molti punti di picnic lungo il percorso.   Vivi Porlezza come un abitante del luogo  Ogni anno, il 16 agosto, tutte le frazioni di Porlezza si animano per l'annuale festa di San Rocco, con una serie di attività tradizionali, musica e cibo delizioso. È un grande divertimento per le famiglie. E per vivere la zona del lago come un abitante del luogo, l'annuale corsa non competitiva denominata “Nove Torri Campanarie”, che si svolge a luglio, è la cosa perfetta da fare.   Suggerimento del redattore: soggiornare a Porlezza è una buona opzione se hai intenzione di esplorare il famoso e costoso Lago di Como con un budget limitato. Il lago e il suo prestigioso Golf Club Menaggio & Cadenabbia, le sue splendide ville e le città di villeggiatura sono a soli 20 minuti da qui. La tranquilla residenza per vacanze sul lago, Porto Letizia a Porlezza, Lago di Lugano  Porlezza è un ottimo punto di partenza per le vacanze sulle sponde italiane del Lago di Lugano, soprattutto per chi è alla ricerca di vacanze economiche. Il fascino rilassato del resort e le strutture di Porto Letizia offrono la scelta perfetta di alloggi: da monolocali e appartamenti con balcone vista lago a ville con giardino privato.   Il residence dispone anche di un giardino sul lago e di un delizioso ristorante con un menù a tre portate a prezzi vantaggiosi, che comprende deliziosi tiramisù e gnocchi alla sorrentina!  Altri villaggi da esplorare sulla riviera italiana del Lago di Lugano  Campione d'Italia: L'affascinante enclave italiana con il più grande Casinò sulle rive del lago  Goditi una gita a Campione d'Italia  Campione d'Italia è l'unica enclave italiana circondata dal territorio svizzero. Dal 1798, quando la città dovette scegliere tra l'Italia e la Federazione Svizzera, è rimasta saldamente italiana. La città è famosa per il suo casinò in stile barocco, uno dei più grandi d'Europa prima della sua scomparsa. Oggi il complesso del casinò ospita concerti e festival culturali. Campione d'Italia è anche nota per i suoi eccellenti ristoranti che combinano il meglio della cucina italiana e svizzera.  I monumenti religiosi, il Santuario di Santa Maria dei Ghirli e l'Oratorio di San Pietro, testimoniano la lunga storia del comune, che nel Medioevo ha dato origine ai Maestri Campionesi. Questo gruppo di artigiani eccelse nella scultura e nell'architettura e lavorò in tutta Europa durante il passaggio dallo stile romanico a quello gotico.   Cima: Esplora le rilassanti strade antiche con gli accoglienti caffè tradizionali   I visitatori alla ricerca del fascino semplice del lago e del relax potranno godere di una vacanza rilassante a Cima (2,7 km da Porlezza). Le incantevoli strade antiche del villaggio ospitano numerosi caffè tradizionali, ristoranti e alcune graziose chiese.   Lavena Ponte Teresa: Il luogo ideale per gli sport acquatici e le spiagge Il tranquillo lungolago di Lavena Ponte Tresa  Sull'estrema sponda occidentale del Lago di Lugano, la città di Lavena Ponte Teresa si trova a circa un'ora di auto da Valsolda. La cittadina si trova a cavallo del confine italo-svizzero ed è ricca di storia. Ha anche un grande mercato settimanale (sabato mattina) dove si possono trovare deliziose specialità locali, oltre a vestiti e accessori. La città offre numerosi sport acquatici, tra cui kayak, canoa, paddle boarding e pesca sul lago. In alternativa, potrai oziare su una delle graziose spiagge del lago nelle vicinanze. Gli ospiti possono essere impegnati o rilassati a piacimento e godersi i migliori punti di balneazione del Lago di Lugano.  Sul Lago di Lugano ce n'è per tutti i gusti e il tutto è accompagnato da una grande dose di imbattibile fascino italiano! Ora tocca a te sperimentare la sua pace, goderti le attività emozionanti e “la dolce vita” tra le bellezze naturali di questo luogo.   Dai un'occhiata alle nostre case vacanza sulla Riviera italiana di Lugano  

Exclusive events on the Italian Lakes

With its romantic charms, noble villas and worldly connections, the Italian Lakes are synonymous with the finer things in life. A tempting programme of events is held each year to celebrate and promote this unique, rich heritage. Enjoy the magnificence of the Italian lakes this summer or next, with these marvellous shows and festivals:Musical events                                                                       Bellagio Festival, Lake Como 14th June – 30th August 2019With Bellagio’s own resident orchestra combining with world-renowned troupes, chamber musicians and talented soloists, the Bellagio Festival always brings a cultural treat to the shores of Lake Como. The annual event showcases this world-wide and regional talent through literary, artistic and musical performances. With divine outdoor locations including the Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni, this year’s musical programme offers an especially scenic way to hear your favourite music, whilst on holiday.Directly across the lake, the famous Villa Carlotta also hosts a fantastic music programme, so now is the perfect time to enjoy an unforgettable performance with that special someone!The Stresa Jazz Festival, Lake Maggiore14th – 27th July & 23rd August – 9th September 2019              With live Jazz and classical musical concerts in full swing across some of Lake Maggiore’s most prestigious locations, this annual festival attracts top musicians and music fans from around the world.From the UNESCO world heritage site of Santa Caterina del Sasso to the opulent extravagance of the Isola Bella palazzo, the unique venue locations will captivate the senses. With the added allure and finery that goes with it, the atmospheric evening recitals in particular, provide the perfect way to experience the true magic and essence of Lake Maggiore. The Stresa Jazz Festival is fully packed too with a cultural programme of contemporary dance, cinema screenings, literary events and theatrical performances to enjoy, so there really is something for everyone!Vintage Car showsConcorso d’Eleganza, Lake ComoLate May 2020 (dates to be confirmed)Put some 'vroom' into your lake stay, with a trip to one of the world’s most intimate and impressive car shows...The annual ‘Concorso d’Eleganza’ has been hosted within the decadent lakeside grounds of the Villa D’ Este hotel since 1929. Prestigious car manufacturers from around the globe proudly showcase their daring new models and most prized vintage models. An event like no other, the scenic Lake Como back drop, dazzling VIP list and jaw-dropping collection of world-class motorcars will rev up any car enthusiasts' day!The best Italian Lake festivalsNotte di Fiaba, Lake Garda23rd – 26th August 2019Travelling with the kids? Each summer the shores of Riva del Garda come alive with fairy tale magic. This year, the theme of the family-friendly festival will be the underwater world of the Little Mermaid. With 100+ events and performances to soak up, parents and kids can fully immerse themselves in some exclusive-feeling family time. The finale is a fantastic 40-minute long firework display, which promises to enchant and amaze, young and old alike.Bardolino Wine Festival, Lake Garda4th – 8th October 2019Each year in early autumn, the streets of Bardolino begin to buzz. For 4 days, the town serves up engaging shows, live music, craft stalls and plenty of free-flowing wine! In fact, the annual festival celebrates the Bardolino grape harvest, so you can be sure there's a healthy abundance of local wine and regional cuisine to savour and buy. The authentic wine festival culminates in a colourful firework display over the town.Cross, Lake MaggioreLate May-early June 2020 (dates to be confirmed)Each year, a fun and varied performing arts festival comes to the Lake Maggiore towns of Verbania and Cannobio. Visitors will be wowed by live street and circus performers, alongside interactive art installations, photography exhibitions, cinema screenings, live DJ sets and contemporary dancers. A welcome blend of cool summer vibes is guaranteed.Italia in Rosa, Lake GardaJune 2020 (dates to be confirmed)Hosted within the medieval charms of Castello di Moniga del Garda, this festival is one for the wine buffs! With industry talks and a collection of over 100 Italian and world-wide rosé wines to sample, including Lake Garda’s own dry rosé Chiaretto, this major event invites you to sample the finest wines, with or without a sommelier! Accompanied by tours and wine tasting experiences in the surrounding wineries of the Valtenesi region, the open day weekend is tipped to be as cheerful as the very wine it is dedicated to.Sagra di San Giovanni, Lake ComoJune 2020 (dates to be confirmed)This is easily one of Lake Como’s most popular festivals. Celebrating the history of Lake Como’s only island, the annual event also commemorates the tragic fire of 1169, which destroyed Isola Comacina. The weekend-long festival sees atmospheric floating candles light up the shoreline and lake, followed next day by a costume-dressed parade of boats and a splendid regatta of traditional Lucia rowing boats. The authentic lake festival culminates on the first night with a spectacular firework display over Isola Comacina - so do bring your camera!  

The magical springtime gardens of Lake Maggiore

As the cafes and hotels open their doors again, the delicate scent of awakening buds drift on the mild pleasant air, as the sun returns to bask on the idyllic lake view terraces. Spring has sprung on Lake Maggiore.If you are lucky enough to be visiting now, the lake’s gardens are the true stars of spring.Arguably the most well-known gardens are to be found on the Borromean Islands. Reached by boat from Stresa, the palatial islands of Isola Madre and Isola Bella will captivate the senses. The most opulent of these are the Isola Bella gardens, which after passing through the unique Baroque palace, greet the visitor like a majestic fantasy. With the landscaped gardens spread across 10 lake view terraces, the focal point of this floating wedding cake is its ‘topper’; the amphitheatre. In amongst the splendour, exotic white peacocks’ parade next to perfectly manicured flower beds and romantic lake-view vistas.The more familiar-feeling Isola Madre gardens are laid out in the form of luscious English parkland; with vibrant flower boarders accompanying lawns, shady long avenues, enchanting wisteria walks and the largest Kashmir Cypress tree in Europe. Situated between Stresa and Intra, and not to be missed, are the botanical gardens of Villa Taranto. Visitors there can fully immerse themselves in its breath-taking landscape. Sprawling parkland, woodland, meandering footpaths and terraced pools provide a welcome home to some 20,000+ species of trees, shrubs, plants and flowers. The flowering beds surrounding Fontana die Putti offer a beautiful sight and for a truly show-stopping moment, visit Villa Taranto in Tulip week. It is then that a vibrant sea of 80,000 tulip blooms caress the park in a joyous, vivid colour, to announce in the spring.Parco Pallavicino in Stresa is well-known for its relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, thanks to its popular on-site zoo. The park’s lake view gardens though are reason enough to pay a visit! With the fragrance of flowering wisteria in the air and colourful tulips, rhododendrons, azaleas and early roses in full bloom, visitors will enjoy immersing themselves in the scents, and delights of the season.Lake Maggiore also offers some secret, unassuming springtime gardens, including the Alpine Garden

8 free must-have travel apps to make your trip easier

A bit of planning and the use of modern technology can make your vacation or weekend trip relaxing and stress free. Whether you are taking a 3-week vacation or a weekend trip, having the right apps on your phone goes a long way. From planning your trip to deciding where to eat once you have arrived at your destination, there are plenty of apps to help you along the way. We have compiled a list of free useful travel apps you shouldn’t travel without. Before you leave on your holiday, make sure you’ve downloaded these on your phone. HopperWhen planning your trip, comparing and finding the most affordable flight is exhausting and costs you a lot of time. Hopper is an award-winning travel app for booking flights on your mobile devices. A great advantage over other flight-booking apps is that Hopper tells you the best time to book the flights you’re looking for. When you enter your dates, the app will predict the cheapest time to buy your tickets and will advise you whether you should wait or book right away. You’ll also get a direct notification as soon as the price dropped. The app does so by collecting data from historical archives of flight prices and then analysing them.  There are no annoying ads and no popups so that you can book your tickets hassle-free.  PackPointAfter you’ve easily booked your flights with Hopper, your trip can finally start and it’s time to pack. If you like organising and making lists, you’ll love PackPoint. This app generates a list of what to pack for you, based on your length of travel, the weather at the destination and the kind of activities that you have planned during your stay. The app will list all necessary items that you need for your trip. It is also very easy to add something or delete items from the list you don’t need. Going on a trip with your travel buddy? No problem, you can simply share your list with others. TripItThanks to the apps mentioned above, you’ve managed to plan your trip wisely and hassle-free. All you need now are your travel documents. But why print them and waste space in your bags when you can easily store all your documents on your mobile device? TripIt is your master travel planner which allows you to store all your travel plans in one place. It takes all necessary information from emails you have received and creates a single itinerary for your trip. This itinerary can be accessed from anywhere and any device and can easily be shared with others which is a benefit when planning a trip with a larger group.  Citymaps2goCitymaps2go is the ideal app for travellers who want to be prepared for their trip. The app shows you places to stay, places to eat and interesting places to visit at your destination. It offers both online and offline maps and lets you save all the places you love. You can plan your trip using tips from local experts and other travellers’ favourite spots. You can also book your attraction tickets and guided tours directly through the app and share your experience with all your friends.  CitymapperAre not sure how to find your way through the city and use public transport once you’ve arrived at your destination? Citymapper, available in 39 cities, is another perfect journey planner to help you navigate around. Including real-time departures and disruption alerts, it has never been this easy to get from A to B.  XEXE Currency is the one app you should use for currency rates when going overseas. The app knows every currency in the world, shows historic currency charts and lets you calculate prices using its calculator. And the best thing is, it also works without an internet connection if you save the latest updated rates.  Google TranslateGoogle Translate has always been an essential travel app. It allows you to translate words and phrases in over 100 languages. The app’s latest feature allows you to point your phone camera towards any written text or sign and translates it for you, even without a data connection. This is very handy if you are in a country where you aren’t familiar with the language.  PolarstepsPolarsteps is your very own digital travel journal. It makes the job of keeping a journal much easier for you by automatically tracking your route and the places that you visit while you are travelling with your phone in your pocket. The app creates a beautiful travel journal for you and transfers it to your traveller profile once you are online. You can share this with your friends and family to keep them updated about where you are and what you’re doing. At the end of your trip, you can turn your memories into a printed photo album.  Thanks to smartphones and especially the apps we presented to you, planning your trip and travelling has gotten so much easier. All the information you need can be stored in one place and will be available at your fingertips.   So, what are you waiting for? Download and try them!

Swiss Miniatur: A Family Attraction on Lake Lugano