The Spirit of Carnival in Viareggio

Not many people know that the Carnival of Viareggio is the third most famous in the world after Rio de Janeiro and Venice. With the first one it has in common the great participation of people to the spirit of parades and night folkloristic feasts; with the second it shares the artistic refinement of its paper-machè masterpieces which are admired as true works of arts such as the luxurious masquerades in Venice.

To the people of Viareggio, the Carnival is not just a world famous event, but a “mood”, an emotional state which invades everyone hearts and minds from youngs to adults for about one month before Lent. People participate in the Carnival feeling as if “confetti flawed in her/his veins”. Nobody will care if your still have some sparkling gel on your face or a glimpse of hair colour is yet visible on Monday morning…nobody will care if you are a bit tiered-looking after a Carnival party at “Rione Darsena”[1] because he/she was probably there too!

Short getaway to Rome with kids

When I decided to bring the whole family to Rome for a tour inspection, I had no idea of how it could turn out to be, but I was ready to become overtired.
We departed from Viareggio, Northern Tuscany, about 8am and we decided to go for the state highway Aurelia, instead of the motorway via Florence. The journey was very relaxing, as there is not much traffic and you need a slower pace, but I had not considered that my 7-months-old baby could need a change on the way there and the 4 years old girl might need a break. Well, the only place which can be considered “suitable” for both needs and is also providing a comfy baby changing top is a bar just before the entrance of the Civitavecchia Motorway to Rome. There are many nice places which might be worth a stop, but the one I feel I have to go back sometime in the future is the Etruscan city of Tarquinia. Read on >>>

My post on My Family travels blog: http://www.myfamilytravels.com/

Out-of-beaten-track Tuscany food tours

Our guest post on GotSaga blog

Tuscany is one of the best regions of Italy to go for food tours, both around cities and countryside. If many historical city centres, such as in Florence, Lucca and Siena, yet preserve the traditional artisanal shops and workshops, there are many foody trails in the outdoor areas you cannot miss. Moreover, Tuscany has a wide variety of wine terroirs and many Slow-Food associated typical products, which will make your explorations unique. Here are my five most favourite out-of-beaten-track food tours. >>>

A Day Trip In Pisa At San Rossore Park – Joy For Families

If you are spending a few days in the Versilia area with your family and you are looking for a nice place where your kids can enjoy the open air spaces and nature, you cannot miss Parco di Migliarino and San Rossore Park.

I have spent one day with friends and our children, enjoying ourselves without much worries about possible risks.

The Park entrance is located near Pisa city centre, which makes it also suitable in combination with a short trip to the Leaning Tower.

The entrance is free and, apart from the natural environment, the Park includes the Hippodrome ring, where in winter time horse races are still up and going, and a few historical buildings which were once upon a time, noble dwellings of the King and Princes of Italy.

Most buildings have now been refurbished and hosts different activities, from restaurants to stalls and visitor centres.

>>>

Palio of Siena experience...with kids

My tip on Traveldudes

The Palio of Siena is one of the most famous historical events in Italy and therefore there are loads of information and pictures about it.

What I should try to focus on is the experience of this event from the family’s point of view, i.e. when travelling with kids, especially babies and toddlers. >>>

Versilia, Tuscany

Our guest post on Italy: beyond the obvious blog by Madeline Jhawar

Tuscany is known to most people as the land of sunflowers, poppies, olive groves and beautiful historical cities such as Florence, Siena and Pisa. But few know the magic of a small territory with a microcosm of landscapes, from the silent sea that laps silky sands to towering mountains, that were the cradle to Romans. The vast expanse of natural parks and pine forests were once a hunting ground for the Tuscan nobility; the rolling hills were redesigned by men in neat vineyards and olive groves; and the magical waters of Lake Massaciuccoli inspired Giacomo Puccini, and still attract the rarest species of birds to spend the warmer months.

Located in northwest Tuscany, bordering Liguria and the Cinque Terre, Versilia is nestled between the high Apuan Alps (giving it a mild winter climate) and a long sandy stretch of coast.

The unusual wedding

Guest post on The favour shoppe blog

There are many unusual ways to get married, under the sea with mask and snorkel, in the air jumping off an airplane, but this is not adventurous nor weird, but just an exciting way to share your happiness with people you love.

Tuscany is full of tiny villages where peasants still keep bound to their traditions and history. They are like small atolls scattered all over the luxuriant enchanting countryside, but yet less exotic.

There is a village, called Gualdo, on the hillside of Camaiore in Versilia area, Northern Tuscany, which is better known as the fairytales’ hamlet. It is now inhabited by less than one hundred and fifty souls who strive to preserve its charm, dating back to the XVIIth century, both in terms of environmental setting and cooking traditions.

continue >>>>

Wedding menu in Tuscany

Our Guest post on Charming Italy blog


Choosing the right menu is crucial for the success of a good wedding, as much as for the location of the event. The latter, in fact, should be evocative, in harmony with your style. Tuscany offers beautiful venues indeed, but menus need to be studied in detail according to them, because they mostly characterize your wedding event. Tuscan regional cuisine is rich of culinary tips for your wedding menus, thanks to the great variety of its traditions. >>>

Short getaway to Elba Island with kids

Our guest post on Traveldudes

Elba Island is an enchanting natural paradise just one hour far from the central coast of Tuscany. It is easy to reach via Piombino harbour in a short drive from Leghorn or Pise.

I decided to have a trip there with my daughters, 4 years old and 2 months old, and to experience this charming destination in family friendly arrangements. I chose to stay in Marciana Marina, which is located in the northern part of the isle under the shadow of Mount Capanne, the highest of the island.

This is a cosy village, with a small sheltered harbour where sailing boats circumnavigating the island use to stop for the night. Some houses yet date back to the medieval time and it is very easy to get around its flowered narrow alleys and the harbour promenade, especially if bearing a baby stroller.

Continue reading on Traveldudes >>>>>

Beach Weddings in Tuscany

Our guest post on The Tuscan Magazine

Versilia is the perfect place for a wedding on the beach because its coastline offers a wide variety of bathing establishments equipped with every comfort and service. The setting is unique as the location for a wedding, not only for the stunning backdrop of the Apuan Alps which stands on its background, but also for the beautiful sunsets where the sun dips into the sparkling waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. This is the perfect time for the couple to declare their love and then relax with their guests and contemplate this spectacle of nature.

Continue reading >>>>

My post about eco-weddings in Italy on Traveling greener blog

Traveling Greener is a blog about green travel news, trends and information.
Here is an excerpt of my guest post on:

Green Destination Weddings In Italy

A green wedding gives the engaged couple the chance to show family and friends their tastes, aspirations and creativity and convey a message of love and respect for nature.

Recently, in Italy, the green wedding trend has become fashionable following the United States and United Kingdom.

Read more >>>>

Day trip to Lucca with Kids

Tuscany is a highly kids friendly region not only because it offers a wide variety of activities and settings, from the mountains to the seaside and countryside, but also for the simple and tasteful cuisine which is most appreciated by children.

When travelling with your kids you will probably look for the shortest and easiest itinerary, so as to shorten the travel time and to plan activities which enables parents to relax and children to enjoy.
I have therefore arranged a day tour which meets the above exptectations, allowing families to get closer to the Tuscan culture and daily life.

The starting point of our trip in Tuscany is Lucca, one of the most beautiful historical cities in Italy, which dates back to the Romans, but is nowadays better known for the Renaissance walls running around the city centre and topped by centenary linden trees.

Car parks are all located outside the city walls, but are very close to it, so that you may easily reach for the entrance doors either walking along the green paths or pushing a stroller. My suggestion is to enter at Porta Santa Maria and make for the closest bike renatal shop to start your visit riding atop city walls of Lucca.

Children will love it because they will be safe and free to move on the large bastions while you will be able to admire the historical magnificence of this city along 4 km circuit. Walls have many get in/out paths so that you can make for the desired place anytime you wish. Lucca city centre is a limited traffic area, which makes it even safer for children. Don’t miss Via Fillungo, San Frediano Church, San Michele in Foro Church, Piazza Anfiteatro, Guinigi and Clock towers.

Let’s open a small parenthesis on “snack” which might be the joy for kids, but also for mum and dad. Don’t miss Pasquinelli , the typical "pasticceria", i.e. cakes shop, that elates all its fragrances around. You will smell them by the time you are closer. You cannot miss the “Treccia” a sugar-coated soft French pastry blended with chocolate drops and twisted in a plait. Delicious as desert or simply melting into a cappuccino for breakfast.

For salty food lovers, I suggest the Giusti steam oven baker'shop to taste “focaccia” (a flat dough cooked in steam oven, pointed by knuckle holes and topped with olive oil and rosemary), the most famous in the city. You will often find queues in front of its small shop window to get a strip of it for an afternoon snack. Delicious alone, but also together with ham and cheese for a quick lunch or a yummy snack for your teething babies.

When lunch time is approaching, I suggest to look for a kid friendly restaurant, where family needs are fulfilled. There you will find baby chairs for all ages, children menus, baby changing table and toys to entertain toddlers while you are having lunch. You will find all these at Trattoria pizzeria "Gli Orti di via Elisa" is in the heart of Lucca, just beside the beautiful Villa Bottini. It is not only fashionable because it makes a careful service, but also because it combines it with a typical cuisine, where all local treats cannot be missed, such as Prosciutto Bazzone, made out of “Cinta” pigs bred at 500 metres over sea level, on the green fields of Garfagnana.
If your visit takes place in Summer time or Spring, do bring with you a blanket and have a pic nic on the city walls meadows to gain some relax for you and more fun for your kids.

Beach wedding in Versilia

Versilia is the perfect place for a wedding on the beach because its coastline offers a wide variety of bathing establishments equipped with every comfort and service. The setting is unique as the location for a wedding, not only for the stunning backdrop of the Apuan Alps which stands on its background, but also for the beautiful sunsets where the sun dips into the sparkling waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. This is the perfect time for the couple to declare their love and then relax with their guests and contemplate this spectacle of nature.

Versilia tourism sector also has a very good standard for all the pockets, which can meet the needs of the bride and groom to accommodate guests from the rolling hills of Camaiore and Massarosa, to the marina of Viareggio and Forte dei Marmi, to the medieval Pietrasanta and Seravezza rich in art and culture. The bride and groom and their guests will stay in Versilia for several days enjoying the many recreational opportunities from mountain to lake, from hills to the sea with a wide variety of entertainments for sport, art and traditions lovers to gourmet.


Versilia finally enjoys a strategic position in north-west, a few yards from the Pisa airport and well connected to the most famous art cities like Lucca and Florence and charming places in nature such as the Cinque Terre, Lunigiana and Maremma.


Continue reading >>>>

Vin Santo - the "Holy Wine"

Easter is now close and the period is perfect to travel around Tuscany and taste the Vin Santo: emblem of Tuscan hospitality and ancient ritual of the feast.

The best time to taste it? In May! When little casks "caratelli" are opened after at least 7 years vintage!

Some famous Vin Santo wineries

La regola - Riparbella http://www.laregola.com/

Beconcini – San Miniato http://www.pietrobeconcini.com/

San Michele a Torri - Scandicci http://www.fattoriasanmichele.it/

San Gervasio – Palaia http://www.sangervasio.com/

Sorelle Palazzi – Morrona http://www.sorellepalazzi.it/

Marini – Pistoia http://www.marinifarm.it/

Rocca di Monte Grossi - Gaiole in Chianti http://www.roccadimontegrossi.it/

San Giusto a Rentennano – Gaiole http://www.fattoriasangiusto.it/

Isola e Olena - Siena

Vin Santo is a product that has its roots and origins are lost in the mists of time, has always been made with techniques passed down orally from father to son as a precious heritage. It 'an ancient amber-colored wine, more or less, and for its particular organoleptic characteristics are consumed in combination with the sweet dessert when features (known throughout the world with the combination of almond biscuits) and may well be accompanied to the blue cheese crostini blacks or liver, when present in dried form. Occupies an important place in Tuscan and prestige since the Middle Ages

A bit 'of history.

There are various theories on the etymology of the word. A Sienese version speaks of a Franciscan monk who during the Great Plague of 1348 took care of the victims of the disease with a wine that was commonly used by the brothers to celebrate mass, this would be a widespread belief that this wine had miraculous miraculous properties, giving it the ' title of "saint."

Another version is a native of Florence, according to which during the Council of Florence in 1439, Metropolitan John Bessarion greek proclaimed, as he was drinking greek wine: "This is the wine of Xantos", perhaps referring to a sweet greek wine (a wine made from raisins pressed) from Santorini. His guests, who had confused the word "Xantos' with 'santos', thought that he had discovered in the wine quality worthy of being defined as "holy". In any case, from that moment it was called Vin Santo.

Dont't forget to pair Vin Santo with an artisanal Easter cake, the "Colomba", better if the classic one with almonds on top.

Enjoy it and best wishes!

The Theatre of Silence opens again this year for a one only event on Thursday July 21st

The 2011 edition takes a look special, because the Theatre of Silence and its Honorary President, Master Andrea Bocelli, enthusiastically accepted an invitation from the Ambassador Extraordinary of the Republic of China in Italy to host "Bravo China".

"Bravo China" is a show in which internationally renowned Chinese artists together key actors of the host country, from the world of beautiful singing, dance and pop music, a spectacular event that creates a dialogue and an exchange of high-profile artistic between two countries so far away, the night of the Theatre of Silence will artistically closer.

The nine previous editions have crossed all five continents, from Hollywood to Rio de Janeiro through the Acropolis in Athens and the Kremlin in Moscow.

"Bravo China" will also be a televised event and will be broadcast on major national networks of the two countries.

Confirmed the presence of Maestro Andrea Bocelli is joined with that of the Chinese pianist Lang Lang, an artist of established reputation, who has performed with orchestras all over the world.

The artistic cast of the event is still being finalized, but it is already secure the presence of tenor Dai Yuqiang, the pride of Chinese opera, and the singer Liu Huan, who in 2008, he performed the official theme song of the opening ceremony Olympic Games in Beijing, "You and Me", with British singer Sarah Brightman.

The cast includes the extraordinary participation of the Italian violinist Uto Ughi, of Etoile 's Eleanor Abbagnato Opera Garnier in Paris, and flutist Andrea Griminelli.

Suggestions

How to get there

If you have a car, you can enjoy a nice walk up to the yellow hills, where wheat grass has turned dry after June harvest.

You can also stop to by some food on your way and have a pic nic before the gates open.

NB: there is a quite steep slope to reach for the entrance which might not be suitable for people having heart or walking problems. Ambulances and volunteers are ready to help anybody in need to reach for it and have a preferential entrance.

Vans and Shuttle can park in La Sterza Parking, where the ticket office is and a public shuttle will drive you to the theatre.

Cons

After the concert, have some patience and stay in the line with your car...or get out before the end and avoid the dust cloud raised by cars...

Tickets

The official ticket seller and organizer of the event is Four One: http://www.fourone.it/ and tickets are available since March 29th. Hurry up then! Last year tickets went sold out in one week!

The tickets will go on general sale on 4/4/2011 on WWW.VIVATICKET.IT AND ALSO WWW TICKETONE.IT.

Tickets goes from €69 in green area to €230 in executive.

Tickets shall be claimed at the parking area in La Sterza, then plan to be there in due advance of the beginning. Queues are quite long!

Tickets are not delivered without an ID or passport.

As for accommodation

I strongly recommend:

Poggio al Casone estate in Crespina, if you are spending one week in Tuscany: http://www.poggioalcasone.com/

or very close to Lajatico:

Agriturismo La Mandriola http://www.agriturismolamandriola.com/

On weekly rental again, but for a cheaper rate, I found a cosy apartment in the heart of Lajatico village:

http://www.lajatico.info/AppartamentoCastelloLajatico.htm

you can even walk to the event from here.

Last, I'd suggest the old Mansion of Pieve dè Pitti in La Sterza:

http://www.pievedepitti.it/country-guesthouse/accommodation.html

When you are there, do not forget to taste the Bocelli family wine at his cellar in La Sterza: http://www.albertobocelli.com/

Wishversilia welcomes any request or query to make your sojourn in Tuscany unforgetable!

Enjoy the event!

The most luxurious places in Northern Tuscany: Riviera-Versilia

Versilia Riviera, set on the Northern Tuscany coast, has become a favourite retreat for celebrities and wealthy vacationers. Its reputation dates to the 1960s, when industrialists made wealthy by a booming economy chose Versilia as a place to get away – followed soon thereafter by the Prince and Princess of Piedmont, who eventually chose Viareggio’s beach resorts for their summer sunbathing. Continue reading >>>

A Luxury Travel Blog

A gem of Tuscany: Viareggio - Five Can't Miss Experiences

Viareggio is a small town on the Northern coast of Tuscany, nested in the area called Versilia which stretches from Viareggio to Forte dei Marmi surrounded by the impressive amphitheatre of the Apuan Alps. This little town has a quite recent history as it dates back to the XVII century when noble people from Lucca were prompted by Elisa Baciocchi, Napoleon’sister, to build their own vacation villas on the sea strand. What nowadays makes Viareggio a unique destination for tourists is the harmonious equilibrium of orthogonal streets indulging on the sunset melting over the Tyrrhenian Sea on one side and on the Apuan Alps on the other, broken in the middle by a large natural park made of maritime pines. >>>
A gem of Tuscany: Viareggio - Five Can't Miss Experiences
Guest post on Got Saga

The charm of Viareggio and Versilia in winter

The charm of Viareggio and Versilia in winter
If you are looking for what to do and where to eat in Versilia during winter, read this guest post by Serena…

wishversilia: Great places to eat and drink in the scenery in Tuscany

wishversilia: Great places to eat and drink in the scenery in Tuscany

Great places to eat and drink in the scenery in Tuscany

A selection of places I know where you can sit and have a wonderful veiw in front of you. Some are cheap, some are expensive, some are just for private clients and not for tourists...Enjoy the tour!

Caffetteria Uffizi Museum Florence

Those who visit the Uffizi Gallery can take a rest in an exceptional setting. Down the hall in front of the entrance, a modern bar and two lounges with stunning views from the windows. But it is the large terrace, open virtually all year round, offering a unique perspective and view the world.

La Loggia del Piazzale Michelangelo Florence

In the lovely spring or autumn weather, and during the summer months, our Panoramic Garden with its wonderful view over the city of Florence becomes the favoured destination of Florentine and of visitors from all over the world.

Opera Primaziale Pisana Pisa

http://www.opapisa.it

Surrounded by the charming setting of Piazza dei Miracoli, the Auditorium dell'Opera del Duomo exudes a unique atmosphere for its art, history and culture. The Leaning Tower, the Cathedral and the whole group of monuments are the backdrop of an elegant and intimate place that can fulfil any congress requirement while offering many opportunities for first-rate entertainment and culture.

Restaurant Piccolo Principe

Roof top of the Grand Hotel Principe di Piemonte in Viareggio www.ristoranteilpiccoloprincipe.com

The Piccolo Principe has a fantastic breathtaking view that sweeps from the Tyrrhenian Sea to the Apuan Alps. During the summer, to create an even more unique experience, you can dine poolside on the roof garden terrace.

Osteria La Porta Monticchiello di Pienza, Siena

http://www.osterialaporta.it/

The tavern is located in proximity of the entrance door of Monticchiello, a nice medieval village near Pienza. With its few places (it is better to reserve), it proposes an elegant room, furnished with taste in typical tuscan style, it is comfortable and familiar. The courtesy and the professionality of the owner, Daria, young and passionate sommelier, are an optimal guide in the choice of the plates and the wines. During the beautiful season it is possible to eat in the terrace, enjoying a wonderful sight on Pienza, the Val d'Orcia and the Amiata.

Hotel degli Orafi Florence
http://www.hoteldegliorafi.it/

From the wonderful terrace of the American Bar on the top floor, you will have a unique view over the river Arno, Palazzo Vecchio, Brunelleschi’s magnificent Dome and the splendid hills which surround Florence. This is where you can enjoy your Welcome Drink, if you are an hotel guest, with relaxing background music and – why not? – where you can taste typical local and Italian dishes accompanied by a glass of excellent Chianti Classico.






Restaurant Le Terrazze San Gimignano, Siena
Really distinctive, where it's possible to taste the most delicate Tuscan kitchen in an exceptional surrounding. Two ample rooms, one dating back to the XIVth century, from which it's possible to enjoy one of the more beautifuls landscapes from Tuscany, dominating the Val d'Elsa, from Monteriggioni up to Siena.

Ristorante Le Tre Terrazze Monteggiori, Camaiore (LU)

A Monteggiori, one of the most charming villages in the Versilian territory, characterized by the ancient fortifications of medieval origin, timeless place, just minutes away from Pietrasanta, a warm family run restaurant where traditions and tastes of Tuscan cuisine reign.

Locanda Le Volte Casale Marittimo, Pisa

The restaurant is divided into two floors, the inferior one has got a big terrace with an enchanting sight of the sweet hills of Tuscany Maremma.

The specialities of the kitchen are based on a typical game and products of the zone: Croutons with fegatini and Tuscany raw ham, Pappardelle to wild boar or hare sauce, Stewed wild boar, Capriolo in salmì and many more fish foods.

Ristorante Caffetteria San Colombano Lucca - http://www.caffetteriasancolombano.it

The Ristorante Caffetteria San Colombano was built inside the ancient homonymous rampart on the urban walls of Lucca, by restoring the existent structure of the tower and creating functional spaces without interfering with the pre-existing walls. It produces a special atmosphere, a mixture of sensations generated by the co-existence of new and old, with a view on Lucca city centre from its ramparts.