March 29, 2016

VESPA AROUND THE WORLD



Did you know?
Today VESPA - the famous Italian scooter- is commemorating 70 years. An icon๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ช




March 23, 2016

HISTORY, SEA & MORE.....


A place that combines history and sea. That you can relax in an unexplored beach after a day visiting monuments, class of culinary or wine tasting. Paradisiac landscapes, unspoilt dunes and a fantastic sea, Sicilia is a place to visit .

This island gathers so much history beyond the gorgeous nature. Among some beautiful and fantastic places, I am a fan of small villages. 

Listed by UNESCO as World Heritage, the archeological area of Agrigento lies on a vast area over the sea. The location gives an unequaled view. My suggestion:  take a guide on the spot and let you go into the history of this place.wha.unesco.org/en/list/831


 Nice beaches with intact dunes are not far away: Scala dei Turchi, Porto Palo or Eracle Minoa.



Further a hidden beach called Cala Del Re attracts  attention by being in a privilege place. A small restaurant almost over the sea, it is a perfect scenario to taste a plate of 'pesce crudo'. A siesta is almost mandatory in this beach. Don't miss it!!! www.caladelre.it



Where to stay? Located in Palma de Montechiaro, Mandranova is a charming 'Azienda Agricola' with a splendid swimming pool around the olive trees. The hospitality of Silvia and Giuseppe makes you feel at home. The place is unique and as the doors of their domain open you can feel how they take care of any single detail : the swimming pool, cooking class, their olive oil, the breakfast with local products... On the evenings the aperitif precedes the delicious dinner surprised by the Chef, the possibility to discuss with the owners and other guests makes the evenings a happening. Check it out:www.mandranova.com






 

March 16, 2016

MOUNTAINS & LAKES


Patagonia Argentina, it is not only about snow and ski.....Summer and spring with their long days are perfect to admire the beautiful landscape.

Drinks, some tapas, lunch or dinner: I recommend El Mirador Social Club. With a sublime view of the Andes, this place in Villa La Angostura does not disappoint. www.miradorsocialclub.com.ar



Bosque de los Arrayanes: this park is unique in the world with trees with more than 600 years. Accessible by foot or boat. Don't miss this magic place!

,, 


Thinking about a good meal? Waldhaus - Villa La Angostura. An atmosphere of mountains, this cozy restaurant serves local dishes as smoked meats and trouts. Don't miss the desserts and check the prices of the wines before order....



On the other side of the Nahuei Huapi lake, you reach the famous city of Bariloche. If you are looking for something authentic, you should try the restaurant Bahia Serena. With a splendid view, you taste a very good pasta. www.bahia-serena.com.ar





It is almost impossible to visit a place without..... shopping. I discovered a charming shop in the middle of the road between Bariloche and  Llao Llao that sells local handicraft, great decoration's pieces, nice leather bags, beautiful clothings. If you pass around, don't miss it.....The only inconvenient: they don't accept credit cards! - yes, in 2016.....it happens!!!!










March 12, 2016

March 7, 2016

WINE - TOSCANA



Toscana.... this charming region that associates great wines, food, historical villages and cities. 

Montalcino, located in the south of Firenze, became a World Heritage site by Unesco in 2004. The vineyards are known by their excellent quality. Some listed in the best 101 wines of Italy.





Altesino is mentioned by the Brunello di Montalcino Montosoli 2010. This  'Azieda' produces much more than wine: there you can also taste grappa, brandy and olive oil. Visits can be booked in advance if you are planning a trip : www.altesino.com



Castello Banfi appears in the list with Brunello di Montalcino Poggio alle Mura Riserva 2008. This domain deserves a visit, known by the wines but also by the food. There is possible to book a table in their medieval castle: Poggio alle Mura. Check it out in their website   www.castellobanfi.com  





Simplicity and originality are marks of Toscana. Biondi Santi is a genuine example of a family business with charm and quality. Greppo Brunello de Montalcino 2008 is a merit of their work. www.biondisanti.com 


Mastrojanni. This winery collects awards : with an excellent quality of wine and a beautiful field. A tour is almost an obligation if you are planning a trip or visit around. The wine chosen is Brunello de Montalcino Vigna Loreto 2007. Take a look in the site: www.mastrojanni.com