Italy 150 » Turin

Italy at a Glance

admin — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 09:07:57 +0000

Italy is one of the great prides of Europe. It attracts thousands of thousands of visitors year in and year out. It such a beautiful country with great sceneries that a lot of nature lovers simply love this place. Some of the spectacular places that you can visit here are the great Alps and the scenic Po River. Italy is home to a number of scenic islands including the city islands of Sicily, Dino Island and Sardinia, and a lot more. Aside from the natural beauty of Italy, it is also home to a number of cultural gems. It has a number of museums all over its major cities that attract people interested in Italian art and culture. Some of the great museums the country is proud of are the Uffizi Museum in Florence, The Aquarium in Genoa, and the Automobile Museum in Turin, among many others. During you travel in Italy, you can visit famous cities like Rome, Bologna, Florence, Venice, Milan, and Pisa. Each city surely has something unique to offer that would truly be a delight to tourists and locales alike. You can find the remarkable and world-famous leaning tower of Pisa, the Vatican Church, and the famous canals of Venice while going around the great cities of Italy. Aside from Italy’s fabulous sceneries, you would also love Italy’s great passion for food. This is the country of the best pizza and pasta. Italy is also well known for its great and high quality wine that would pass the approval of those with the highest discriminating taste. When you find yourself in here, you are sure to satisfy your gastronomic cravings. You can find a number of restaurants that would cater to every taste preference. Italians also have a thing for fashion. You can find a number of luxury shops and boutiques all over Italy offering the best accessories and clothing finds for men and women. If you are a shopaholic, get ready to spend a fortune. You might not be able to control yourself when you find lots of goodies that you can take home with you. Italy has indeed a lot to offer to any kind of traveler. So if you are thinking of a destination for your next holiday trip, Italy vacations should be on top of your list. Italy is for everyone. Whether you are a solo traveler or you are with your partner or the entire family, you can find something to enjoy and remember in Italy. There is something for everyone. You can find a number of accommodations that you can choose from ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly inns. Plan your Italy vacation ahead. You can make airline and hotel reservations online right in the comfort of your own home.

For more information on Italy and Italy vacations, please visit our website.

I Love Touring Italy – Launching a Series

admin — Sat, 13 Mar 2010 09:10:17 +0000

The U. S. Tour Operators Association annual survey shows that Italy is the world’s top vacation destination. This country really has something for everyone. Italy’s attractions include secular and religious sites spanning centuries if not millennia, isolated villages and dynamic cities, ski resorts, beaches, and world-class fashion. And you will love its outstanding cuisine, and their unique wines, what wines. Italy has an unmatched selection of local grape varieties. Should you prefer international grape varieties such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, you won’t be disappointed. Are you aware that Italy is subdivided into twenty regions? Each and every one is different, and well worth touring. Some such as Piedmont are world famous. Others such as Bascilicata are almost never visited by foreigners, or even by Italians themselves. Italy can be divided into three major sections: Northern Italy, sharing a border with four European countries (France, Switzerland, Austria, and Slovenia), Central Italy, and the South, traditionally the poorest part of Italy. Northern Italy is composed of eight regions: The Aosta Valley, Piedmont (whose capital is Turin), Lombardy (whose capital is Milan), Trentino-Alto Adige, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Veneto (whose capital is Venice), Emilia-Romagna, and Liguria (whose capital is Genoa). Central Italy is composed of six regions: Tuscany (whose capital is Florence), Umbria, The Marches, Abruzzi, Molise, and Latium (whose capital is Rome). Southern Italy is composed of six regions: Apulia, Campania (whose capital is Naples), Basilicata, Calabria, and the islands of Sicily (whose capital is Palermo) and Sardinia. Each article will present a region and several of its tourist attractions. We love Italian wine and food (as expressed in our series I Love Italian Wine and Food), so we’ll present regional wines and foods of special interest. Because we’ll be discussing regional wines, let’s briefly look at the Italian wine classifications. These classifications will also come in handy if you’re an armchair tourist and want to enjoy Italian wine at home or in your favorite restaurant. Wine and Food Classification. In 1963 Italy legally defined four wine classifications that presumably help consumers choose their wine. While most wine producing countries have instituted official wine classifications, arguably the Italian system is the most controversial, possibly the most abused, and probably the most ignored by the wine producers themselves. Should you learn a bit about them anyway? We think so. VdT stands for Vino da Tavola, translated as table wine. Table wines may be made from any grape, or mixture of grapes, anywhere within Italy. Usually they are quite ordinary, and in Italy are often served directly from the barrel. And yet on occasion VdT wines are excellent and priced accordingly. IGT stands for Indicazione Geografica Tipica, which may be translated as Typical Geographic Indication, in other words a wine that typifies its specific location. This classification specifies the wine’s geography but is silent about its composition and production method. As for the previous category, sometimes IGT wines are excellent. DOC stands for Denominazione di Origine Controllata, which may be translated as Denomination of Controlled Origin. Each and every region has at least one DOC wine, but some have dozens. A given DOC defines the permissible grape or grape varieties as well as numerous details about the grape growing and wine making process. About one fifth of Italian wine is classified DOC or better. Such a statistic should warn you that a DOC on the label is no guarantee of quality. DOCG stands for Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Guarantita, which may be translated as Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin. Please realize that this letter G on the label is no guarantee of quality. But you can expect to pay more for a DOCG wine than for its less prestigious DOC cousin. Unlike most countries, Italy has gone to the trouble to set up an extensive classification system for food, all kinds of food including olive oil, cheese, and even fruit. Look for the term Denominazione d’Origine Protetta, abbreviated as DOP, which may be translated as Denomination of Protected Origin. You’ll have to decide on your own if it’s worth paying a bit more to buy a certified orange. Have you had enough of the generalities? It is time to move on to the specific Italian regions.

Levi Reiss has authored alone or with a co-author ten computer and Internet books, but to tell the truth, he would really rather just drink fine French, German, or other wine, accompanied by the right foods. He teaches classes in computers at an Ontario French-language community college. His global wine website is www. theworldwidewine. com and his Italian wine website is www. theitalianwineconnection. com .

Vacation in Italy

admin — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 09:09:24 +0000

Italy is historically rich, bold, romantic and colorful. Italy is keystone of todayâ????s western culture. Italy is agriculturally rich country. Its countryside is a prolific producer of fruit, vegetables and livestock. Also culturally rich, Italy has created the worldâ????s best art, architecture, music and literature. Italyâ????s greatest wealth is its people. People here are sociable, charming that seem to know how to do everything bigger and better. They are lively, gregarious and have ardor for everything they do. They are expressive because they show their emotions more freely than most and are not reluctant to give hugs, kisses, and other displays of affection. Italians love to laugh and talk loudly, usually giving stress on everything using hand gestures. They are not at all reluctant to welcome strangers into their towns and homes, and are always all set to share a meal or a story, a good joke or song etc. They love their food, their families, their music and custom. They display confidence, charisma and hospitality. Italy has received more attention from tourist in the last decade than any other European country. For these reasons tourist will find that vacation in italy is most memorable experience of their life. There are wonderful places like famous Rome, picturesque Venice, cultural Florence, and the wonderful coastlines of Amalfi and Italyâ????s distinctive islands. The most famous place of Italy is Tuscany. It is without doubt considered the most beautiful region in Italy because of its landscapes and its artistic legacy. In 1860 Tuscany became a part of Italy. Pisa is the budget airline doorway to Tuscany, but Florence also has its own airport. Rome and Bologna Forli are other options with excellent transport links to Tuscany. Tuscany is a place where best italy vacation rental can be found. The main railways running through Tuscany are the Rome-Pisa-Genoa-Turin line and the Rome-Florence-Bologna-Milan line, which provide quick and well-organized connections with the rest of Italy. Tuscanyâ????s smaller towns are well-connected by bus. Florence is Tuscanyâ????s crown, with its beautiful buildings, rich history, priceless art and distinctive atmosphere . For decades Tuscany has been the dream holiday for many travelers all over. Minor Tuscan destinations which are famous with holidaymakers include Lucca,San Gimignano area. San Gimignano has been called a â????medieval Manhattan and people group to this tiny village to see the popular skyscrapers. If you arrive here before 9:30 am you will see the village as it was meant to be seen, i. e. , tranquil and peaceful, localities enjoying their first cappuccino of the day as they contemplate an active day ahead. This place will be packed with tourist At 9:30 the buses begin to park outside the ancient walls and the day trippers start coming. All day there will be a steady stream, arriving frequently in groups of 20 or so. Whether they live in a large city or a tiny village, the people of Italy work hard and take pleasure in their free time. Walking through the narrow streets of Florence, gliding along on a gondola in Venice, or riding a bicycle through a tiny northern town, any tourist will notice that the Italian people have homes that are simple and practical, but beautiful and vibrant. Probably because it offers diverse italy vacation package that makes vacationing here more popular.

Vacation in Italy, is a good place to start your vacation. You can start their vacation planning selecting Italy vacation rentals and popular itineraries, choosing from a wide range of Italy vacation packages. You may further customize it to suit their requirements and conveniences. You can view some of the most beautiful places in Italy dating from the period of the Venetian merchants. http://www. italy-vacation. com

Buying Property for Sale in Italy is Always an Excellent Choice

admin — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 09:10:07 +0000

Until a few years ago, property for sale in Italy had never seemed a particularly exciting opportunity. There were a few farmhouses or seafront apartments that real estate agents could market under the ‚Äòoverseas property for sale in Italy section‚Äô that might interest buyers, but that was about all. However, this situation has modified drastically and no longer is there the lack of options that used to define the Italian property market. Now variety is the new face of the Italian property market. Types of Property for Sale in Italy Popular Italian regions are Calabria, Marche, Lazio and more have popped up to submit their suitability as the preferred property investment destinations. Italy offers an unmatchable rural flavour, and in some areas this is quickly being enwrapped in urban packaging which is a hit with some overseas buyer. British buyers, interested to probe and experiment with different types of properties, have ample opportunities within the regions: there are new and old properties, which have been or can be renovated for the desired look. In some of the traditional streets of rural Italy there are sophistically modified properties for sale in Italy, right in the heart of the local neighbourhood. Increased Government Investment When you buy a property for sale in Italy, living in Italy not only lets you experience an enigmatic lifestyle, but it also acts as a perfect investment decision. Property prices are set to increase as Italy is growing and spending money on investment projects. For example; Italy‚Äôs government has a cohesion plan, which was initiated last year and covers the southern regions of Italy. By 2013 about 100 billion Euros will have been invested with the aim to reduce the economic gulf between north and south Italy. Improved Infrastructure Travelling around and in Italy is becoming easier. Italy now has various infrastructural developments: TAV, Italian‚Äôs train service, which was not operational at full speed capacity, is a part of history. New lines are being completed, with a few high speed routes, already operational. Travel from Turin to Milan is easy and the line from Milan to Rome will be operational early next year. 2. 5 billion Euros have been invested for the construction and upkeep of stations. No prizes for guessing that the areas to benefit from new train stations will experience a definite property price surge. The rail infrastructure is not the only aspect in transport to improve. The budget airline Ryan Air has added its contribution for increasing the zeal for property for sale in Italy. Flights to the southern region have already increased interest in properties in Calabria. Reduced Property Taxes Property for sale in Italy used to be thought of as an expensive option by property gurus. However, in recent times the Italian authorities have made some modifications to the tax law, which has slashed the cost of property by as much as 13%. For example; for holiday home purchasers, there aren‚Äôt any capital gain taxes to be paid, until five years after the purchase. Even the purchase costs, which were once as high as 15 % post the tax changes, have been reduced to about 4 %. Another bonus is the inheritance tax level is lower than the UK. Conclusion Italy is a country steeped in history and tradition with properties that reflect an old fashioned lifestyle. New technology and infrastructure improvements are being embraced in many parts of Italy, so whether you are looking for a property that gives you an escape from the fast pace way of life or you want a property with all the mod cons, there is something for everyone when you are looking for property for sale in Italy.

Dale Campbell wrote the Article ‘Buying Property for Sale in Italy is an Excellent Choice’ and recommends you visit http://www. homesoverseas. co. uk for more information on properties for sale in Italy.

Italy Celebrates Saint Joseph’s Day

admin — Sun, 21 Feb 2010 12:22:03 +0000

Italy – The Feast Day of Saint Joseph Italians love celebrating. Two days after the feast of Saint Patrick, on March 19th, Italians all over the world celebrate Saint Joseph’s Day. Saint Joseph is the father of Jesus and the husband of Mary. He is the Patron Saint of carpenters, house buyers and sellers, fathers, confectioners, wheelwrights, and working people. Numerous countries regard him as their patron saint too, including Austria, Canada, Mexico, Sicily, Turin, and Florence Italy. According to legend, during the Middle Ages severe drought and famine plagued Sicily. Sicilians prayed passionately to Saint Joseph for rain. They promised that if he sent rain, they would prepare a large feast in his honour. While they waited, Sicilians survived on fava beans which saved them from starvation. Saint Joseph heard their prayers and sent rain. The Sicilians never forgot their promise to him for answering their desperate prayers. In gratitude, to this very day, they hold dear their promise and pay homage to him. Every March 19th, Italians open their hearts and pantries. First, three-tiered altars are erected to honour the Holy Trinity. A statue of Saint Joseph, surrounded by flowers and candles, decorates the top tier. On the next two tiers are foods like pasta, olive oil, fava beans, and baked goods. During the banquet, food is generously offered to the needy. In the town squares of many towns and villages, large banquet tables are erected. All the townsfolk contribute food, flowers, limes, candles, wine, and fava beans. No meats are placed on the altar because the feast day falls during the season of Lent. Foods made with bread crumbs are common because it is symbolic of a carpenter’s sawdust. A special vegetarian minestrone soup including fava beans and bread carefully baked in the shape of a sceptre to represent his walking stick or a wreath representing the Crown of Thorns are lovingly prepared and offered. At the end of the meal, every guest takes home some of the food. To begin the festival, the local priest blesses the altar and its foods. Children portraying the Holy Family must sample all the food on the altar. As each item is tasted, there is a drum roll and everyone shouts “Viva San Giuseppe” to cast away all of the evil spirits. When the tasting is complete, the blessed loaf of bread is cut into pieces and shared with all. Legend decrees that whoever eats a piece of the bread will receive good fortune throughout the next year. Saint Joseph’s Day is a day for eating and celebrating with friends and family. There are many recipes passed down through the generations for this very special occasion. One of the most common is for “zeppole”, a fried donut-like treat. So on March 19th, I hope you take the time to make and enjoy zeppole. I wish all my Italian family, friends, and readers Buon Giorno di San Giuseppe – Happy St. Joseph’s Day. “Viva San Giuseppe!” Zeppole For the dough: 2 cups sifted flour 2 cups water 10 ounces granulated sugar ½ teaspoon salt 3 tablespoons olive oil 2 large eggs ¼ cup white wine A pot of oil for frying For the dredging: 3 teaspoons powdered cinnamon mixed with 1 cup sugar Combine water, sugar, and 3 tablespoons of oil in a heavy saucepan and bring to a boil. Mix flour into boiling water mixture all at once. Remove from Remove from heat and begin whisking or stirring with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a mass. Return to low heat and cook 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat, and add eggs 1 at a time. Beat vigorously after each addition or the egg will cook. Add wine and beat the dough until satiny. Grease a countertop or board with oil. Turn out the dough and pat down flat. Fold sides over on itself so there are 3 layers. Repeat this five more times. Heat oil in a large pot or fryer. Take about 1/3 of dough and roll out in a log, to the thickness of your thumb. Pinch off a teaspoon size piece. Place 3 or 4 at a time into boiling oil. Turn and fry until golden on both sides. Drain on brown paper. Place into a paper bag and sprinkle powdered sugar over them. Close the bag and shake to cover with sugar. For more intriguing articles about Italy, history, or writing, visit Mirella Patzer at http://www. mirellapatzer. com http://bestofitaly. blogspot. com

Books are one of Mirella Patzer’s obsessions, especially those that pertain to medieval eras and with Italy as a backdrop. To fulfill a life long dream, she began writing several years ago and has never looked back. Since then she has published several short stories and completed two novels with several more novels in various stages of completion. Her fascination for women of history and Italy is often reflected in her work, blogs, and website. When she’s not immersed in research or writing or blogging, Mirella works as an editor for Enspiren Press. She writes from her home in Cochrane, Alberta, Canada, surrounded by her husband, two college-bound daughters, and a rambunctious little grandson who frequently interrupts her work with a variety of unanticipated, yet humorous calamities and interruptions. For her, life couldn’t get any better.