Bournemouths "gaza Strip"

Bournemouths “Gaza Strip”
Its True! Bournemouth “Gaza Strip” DOES exist – at least thats what the locals in the suburb of Charminster call it …
Bournemouth – An Introduction
“Sunny Bournemouth” is just 100 miles away from London, on the south coast of England – it is nearly opposite the Isle of Wight, and famous for its music festival and many yacht regattas.
The town is home to over 200,000 people, which swells by many thousands at weekends and during the Summer months – it is a well known resort with many hotels, restaurants, and leisure activities on-hand.
At one point in Bournemouths history there were more hotel bedrooms within its boundaries than any other city in Europe outside of London, with approximately 30,000 beds.
The town also benefits by being a premier English language teaching centre, with many schools attracting students from all over the world to learn English.
Where to Go – What to Do
Bournemouth is in the county of Dorset and is an ideal tourist base. Tourists benefit from a nine mile Sandy Beach, and it is well-placed for visits to Salisbury, Stonehenge, Winchester, the New Forest and Dorchester (the famous market town residing in whats known as ” Hardy Country”). The Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site is only 45 minutes away, with over 90 miles of stunning coastline containing fossils dating back 180 million years recording Earths history.
The weather is so clement in Bournemouth that Palm trees flourish year round. Its a very green town, with many parks and an abundance of fine Championship golf courses. It also benefits from its growing international airport, which already services many European countries, with direct flights to major cities and resorts in the Mediterranean.
Nearby is the Sandbanks Penisula, which has some of the most expensive homes in the world – the houses have beautiful views of the Purbeck Hills and across one of the worlds largest and most stunning natural harbours anywhere – it provides the perfect environment for sailing and watersports. The mudflats and salt marshes are an ecological paradise for roosting birds.
There are three theatres – The Pavilion, The Pier Theatre and the Bournemouth International Centre. We also have multiplex Cinemas, the Russell Coates Museum, an oceanarium. two piers, beautiful gardens and a pedestrianised shopping area running from the east to the west of the town joining at the the Town Centre called The Square, which usually has a number of attractions throughout the year culminating in the German Christmas Market. The town also boasts its own large international conference and exhibition Centre called the B.I.C. At certain times of the year the main leisure centre has an ice rink installed. During the Summer months there is a free firework display near Bournemouth Pier on Friday Nights.
Bournemouth is also one of the hottest spots in Europe for young people going clubbing. It is also a firm favourite for stag and hen parties.
Bournemouth was recently voted the “Happiest Place to Live in the United Kingdom” – it received a vote of over 82% to take first place.
The ” Gaza Strip ”
Let me reveal all about the “Strip”. I have already mentioned the great influx of language students visiting our town – they used to come Spring to Autumn, but nowadays the schools are very busy all year round, such is the demand for English as a language worldwide. The consequence is that Bournemouth has become one of the most truly cosmopolitan towns in the United Kingdom.
To answer the needs of these new temporary residents, the main street in Charminster has burgeoned with bars, restaurants, cafes and shops selling exotic ethnic foods. Most of the owners of these outlets tend to be from the Middle East, with Italians, Spanish, Portuguese and Turkish people supplementing their numbers. Korean,Japanese,Chinese and Asian foodshops are on the increase. It has made the main street a vibrant and colourful place to eat, drink and shop.
The bars and restaurants tend to serve food and drink all day long – you wont go hungry on the Gaza Strip.
There has, I have noticed, been a change in the body language and traditional greetings of the English, due to the influence of the traders and the students – many more men kiss and hug each other in the street quite readily! I have also noticed more back-slapping and handshaking than would have been seen previously.
All in all, the Gaza has benefitted the community as a whole. Also, due to the Smoking ban in shops and bars, there are more people lining the street – they have adopted an almost bazaar-type comradeship. If you take a ride along the Gaza, youll notice the number of people calling out to each other with jokes and comments across the street, previously unknown in conservative England.
Depending which end of the strip you start from, the boundaries of the “Gaza” are as follows: starting from the north, you have Sinbads Restaurant at the traffic lights, commonly known as “Kebab Juction and the Corner of the Gaza” (this was a genuine instruction to a taxi driver by a passenger, and he was taken straight there), you reach the end of the strip in the south at Tesco Express. In-between these junctions, you can feast on just about any mouthwatering food you desire.
Restaurants & Bars
Listed below are but a few of the venues on the “Strip”. I have also included the nationalities of the owners, who have spotted the opportunity to provide services to an extended community. They are to be congratulated for their foresight and capital investment in turning what was a mediocre suburban shopping street into a vibrant experience for all to enjoy.
In no particular order:
Sebis Brasserie
Iranian Owner
Serves mainly continental food and a varied selection of wines, open until late, very popular in the evenings, gets very busy, mainly due to the efforts of Miguel, Marco, Einstein ( Ali ) Guzel and Ishmael the Boss -all great lads who always have a smile and a welcome for you… not to mention their wicked cocktails.
The Nippon Inn
Japanese / English Owner
This little restaurant and bar is run by Steve and his Japanese wife; they are right next door to Sebis, and serve some amazing versions of Japanese food resembling Spanish Tapas… nice people.
Salsa
Syrian Owner
This small, friendly bar restaurant has a reputation for Italian / Spanish food with a fair smattering of Middle Eastern meals. It benefits from having a very sunny patio, where you can while away the time and enjoy eating garlic olives, a slice of pizza and a glass or two of wine whilst watching the antics of the people parading up and down the Gaza. Tariq is mine host and will always give you the time of day.
Peppinos
Iranian Owner
Serves mainly Italian food and wines together with that lovely Peroni beer, open until late, very popular in the evenings, gets very busy – they have great Jazz nights and always do their best to provide lively entertainment.
Sal e Pepe
Iranian Owner
A great Italian restaurant operated by the lovely Nikki and Nico the owners, upmarket food and drink for the discerning, just wish they opened at lunchtime again.
San Lorenzos
Italian Owner
Certainly the most famous Italian restaurant on the strip, very friendly, and ably run by Ann and Lorenzo for many years. This restaurant has a very long association with the soccer fraternity, having hosted many dinners for professional footballers when they have come to compete in the town.
You also have the following to choose from:
Havanas Night Club… The Vibe Nightclub… Bar Zuka… Retro… San Miguel… Baraca… Damascus… Bedouin… Pasa Mr Falafael…
STOP PRESS… Soon to be opened by an Englishman will be an “American Diner” – ah, but he is half Italian… God bless.
All of these venues, and this is by no means a complete list, are owned or operated by the following nationalities:
Lebanese, Israeli, Turkish, Morroccan, Palestinian, French Algerian… these great people have made the “Gaza Strip” what it is today. Many Thanks, all.
The Sad Part
I have a sad observation to make, there is only One pub on the Gaza. Its called the Richmond Arms, and what a state the Brewery has let it get into. It has one of the biggest Gardens of any pub locally, and borders a least 100 feet of the “Strip”, separated only by dingy railings. This once happy and vibrant community pub is now in a disgraceful state of decor. The opportunity to be a showcase on this thriving street, and to attract back a bountiful customer base,is being ignored. Given the effort our Middle Eastern friends have put in (and quality, too ), the brewery should be ashamed.
A Question ?
Why do the people of Spain enjoy the freedom of choice when it comes to where you can and cannot smoke in a Bar / Restaurant environment.
I am led to understand that if premises are under a certain square meterage say 100 or that said premise only has a capacity for upto 100 people then they can apply for and are granted a license which they display on their front door advising the public that they make smoke within…how sensible.
The question is of course …..can it be done in the United Kingdom.
A Good Part
For the first time this year, an event known as the Bournemouth Sevens will be staged at the sports facilites near the Airport, 31st May and 1st June 2008. I have copied some information below should you be interested.
Roger Woodall, Director of Diamond Sports Events, a former rugby player and founder of Bournemouth Sevens, realised there was a unique opportunity in England to create a two day festival on par with world tournaments such as Dubai, Hong Kong, and Amsterdam. His goal is to make this annual festival the largest in Europe, appealing to everyone from all ages.
This rugby/music festival will be a whole weekend of entertainment!
It will be a magnificent event for years to come. Not only will there be 24 national teams fiercely competing for the number one spot, we are pleased to announce our special guests the England Rugby World Cup Winners (Lewis Moody, Martin Johnson or Jonny Wilkinson TBC), plus numerous international and premiership rugby players. In addition, the world-renowned band Electric Mayhem will be performing live at the festival. Not only will they get the B7s Arena rocking, they also bring a huge production and PA system.
B7s will be a truly exclusive experience, held at the picturesque venue of Bournemouth Sports Club. It will be transformed into the ultimate sporting arena with 65 acres of picturesque grounds and a capacity to cater for 10,000 people each day. We are also very lucky to have our own parking and camp-site for 3,000 people.
We welcome all Rugby clubs, Hockey clubs, Netball clubs, sports clubs, Universities and anyone who is up for some fun.
Be the first to experience this carnival weekend! Find more information at www.bournemouthsevens.com
Why not visit the Gaza Strip after the events of the day finish and Party On……….
And if you are visiting Bournemouth with a group of people and need Hotel Accommodation why not use our Services….. www.hotelsmart.co.uk
Welcome to the ” Gaza Strip “… whenever.

Hotels in France – Offers Comfortable Accommodation

France is regarded amongst the most visited and popular destinations for taking a holiday or a trip in Europe. And looking at the huge influx of visitors each year proves this fact. Whether it is a leisure trip, a pleasant tour, an adventure holiday or even a romantic getaway, France has all the answers. Geographically the country is very small but each area of the country has it own unique features. France provides with so many opportunities for its visitors as it has such a variety of attractions and activities to explore. Whatever is one’s taste, you can find it here as the country is blessed with such diversity.

France has many faces waiting to be discovered. When you travel in the country, the many hidden secrets unfold one by one and it is certainly a unique experience. Most importantly, the country invokes that feeling of adventure in everyone. Check out the capital city and glamour city of Paris to the Alps and the lush and relaxing countryside, you will never be out of options. At one time, France was a destination for the rich upper class people from America and Great Britain, as travelling to France was linked with luxury. However, the things have changed and now it is now a destination for travelers on any kind of budget. One will find hotels in France, which cater to tourists on a lavish vacation or on a tight budget.

Tourists will find France truly a land of contrasts. The country has a range of landscapes, which the country takes, pride in. Almost 80% of France is countryside, spreading out in the all directions. The inviting countryside is rich and diverse, and each region welcoming the visitors with a warm welcome. The country will endow the tourists with a number of adventures right from a tour of the museums housing major works of art to historical monuments reminding of France’s history. You wish and the country has it for a memorable holiday. It is just not the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe, but there are several other tourist attractions to experience. Of the many things about France, the French wines need a mention. It is the great national treasure rooted in history. With over half million vineyards in the country, French wine is renowned the world over.

A popular destination like France, it has a plethora of accommodation options though the hotels France remains the most accepted of the accommodation options. With thousands of hotels in the country, visitors would not come across accommodation problems but as is the case with all popular destinations, reservations made ahead of your arrival are advisable. A great choice of lodging options is available, catering to all kind of travelers too. The capital city Paris is the world center for fashion, art and style, making it the top destination for visitors with over 30 million travelers visiting it every year. A romantic and beautiful destination Paris has much to offer and the hotels in France Paris furnish the needs of its visitors. The number of hotels in Paris exceeds the total hotels in France. For the adventure enthusiasts the lodging in the campsites, ski resorts, and inns is quite appealing, and satisfying the adventure cravings. Hotels France are fantastic, not disappoint its guest’s with its superb facilities and services.

A visitors guide to Toulouse, France – Part 1

Toulouse, France-the Pink City.

Toulouse, France glows with an inviting soft pink shimmer of light beckoning tourists, and residents to sit a spell and take advantage of the cultural heritage and ever-growing economy. Toulouse is ideally located between the Atlantic Ocean, and the Mediterranean Sea in southwestern France. With a rich historical past, strong cultural sensibilities, and modern commerce, Toulouse is a city that will not disappoint.

It is the fourth biggest city in France with a growing economic commerce. It is the European center for aerospace technology, space center, and it is home to the oldest University in Europe, with the second largest enrollment in France. Toulouse earned the name Ville Rose because of the rich pink warm tones used in the architectural landscaping throughout the city. Located alongside the Garonne and Canal du Midi, Toulouse is an inviting city and provides more than capital and commerce, but a rich cultural heritage spanning from cafes spilled out onto streets, to friendly southern charm only found in southern France.

Toulouse offers visitors a rich history of 11th to 13th century churches, art, and the Capitole house composed of eight pink columns which represent the eight capitals. The Capitole is building that should not be passed over. It was completed in 1759, and today it offers numerous terraces with alluring cafes and shopping. It is a place where locals visit to commemorate life, hold festivals, and celebrate their favorite rugby team.

Also be sure to visit Basilique St. Germaine the largest Gothic church in the world; admission is free and like any other church be respectful and mindful of others visiting. Be sure to a stroll along the Canal Midi, which took 12,000 workers over ten years to build. What makes this canal unique is that it connects the Atlantic to the Mediterranean. It is lined with 100 year old trees, and is an ideal place to bike or stroll.

For anyone who took French in American schools you were probably given experts of Le Petit Prince (The Little Prince) to read and translate. Toulouse was the home of the Le Petit Prince’s author, Antoine de Saint-Exupery. A permanent gallery paying homage to the author is located in the Hotel du Grand Balcon.

Do not be afraid of French cuisine, jump in and enjoy a gastronomical explosion of rich European flavor. A specialty of the city is the Saucisses de Toulouse, an herb sausage. Also, make sure you try the bean and pork stew; along with the garbure, cabbage soup with poultry. Another regional specialty is Fois Gras, fatted goose liver, your in France give it a try.

For getting around you can of course use public transportation. Like Paris, Toulouse has a metro, and an extensive bus system.

Toulouse is a growing metropolis, but it is also a city that has remained true to itself; respecting and remembering its past while looking towards it future. Toulouse, France is a city with southern charm and beauty, and a French destination that should not be missed by anyone visiting the country of France.

Rome – A Rich Culture to Be Experienced in Every Visit

The problem is, however, that there are so many places to choose from. If you are saving to go away on holiday you want to make sure that you get your money’s worth and enjoy your time without any regrets.

A good suggestion is the Italian capital of Rome. This city attracts millions of tourists every year and is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the planet. It is not just a case of being very central in Western Europe. The city has so much to offer. There are not many other cities that can compete with Rome on both the cultural and fun levels.

The city is home to some of the most amazing art pieces you will ever see. This is the birthplace of Michelangelo and Da Vinci and many other world famous geniuses. Everywhere you look you will see something that catches your eye. Most tourists to Rome complain that there was just not enough time to see everything. If you want to get as much out of the city as possible then try stay for as long as you can. Many other European cities like Paris for example are used as a base for tourists to explore the surrounding areas. There is no need to do this when you are in Rome because there is always something to do day and night.

Rome is not just about seeing museums. The nightlife is impeccable at least and you will be able to mingle with the locals with ease. Italians may seem loud and obnoxious to some, but when you really get to know them you will see that they are just a very expressive people. The culture is warm and inclusive and you will never leave anywhere on an empty stomach. If you think you have eaten good pizza anywhere in the world, you will realize that everything else is pale in comparison. You have not lived until you have tried real Roman pizza.

There are plenty of bars and clubs to choose from and these are scattered throughout the city. Depending on which hotel you stay in, the majority of the better clubs are in the area of the Coliseum. The hotel staff should be able to give you good tips because getting the information first hand is always better than reading it in a travel brochure.

The best time to visit Rome is in the springtime because it is not as packed and you won’t have to suffer through any of the Italian humidity. You can book your tickets and accommodation online and hopefully your mind is made up to go to Rome. You really won’t be disappointed.

The Fashion City of Europe

Milan is situated on the flat plains of the Po Valley, and is the capital of Lombardy. It is Italy’s richest and second largest city. The city is the business heart of Italy. It has been rebuilt many times. It is one of the major financial and business centres of the world. The city is the seat of the Italian Stock Exchange the Borsa Italiana Piazza Affari.

The Milanesi’s appreciation of tradition includes a singular respect for religion, they pay a special tax towards the cathedral maintenance. It is there fore fitting that the city’s symbol is the gilded statue of the Virgin, on top of the cathedral.

Milan is a city of money. The city is renowned as one of the world capitals of design and fashion. The English word milliner is derived from the name of the city.

Every top designer name can be found on, Sants Andrea, Montenapoleone and della Spigaand Manzoni, with Gucci, Vuitton and Tods having taken up residence in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele. This is where the original Prada store has been since 1913.

Shopping is of quasi-religious significance. The biggest shopping-street in Milan is the Corso Buenos Aires. It is definitely not the place for the cheapest shopping. The flea markets are normally every where in Milan. There are normally opens on Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday.

The Milan fashion shows, are from late February and late September for women wear and late-June and mid January for the menswear.

The Milanese cuisine includes cotoletta alla milanese, a fried veal fillet in bread crumbs.

The nightlife in the city is vibrant. The evening begins with the passegiata, a cultural institution itself in Italy, where everyone, attired in the smartest clothes. The trend is to move on during the night, visiting two or three locals, thereby demonstrating social savvy and bellafigura being with it is perhaps the best expression. Most bars and restaurants stay open until late. There are no licensed casinos in Milan.

In the church of Santa Maria della Grazie is Leonardo’s Last Supper. One of the most striking monuments of Lombard Renaissance. The Church was built between 1466 and 1490 under the direction of Guiniforte Solari. Inside of the church with a double series of side chapels highlights the Solari’s Gothic background just as the arcades on the two rows of columns. The vaults bear frescoed decorations dating from the birth of the building, rediscovered after they had been hidden in 600.

Italy – The luxury travellers choice

Rome – ‘The city of Ceasars, romance and la dolce vita’ – A.Moreton.

Rome was not built in a day and has the spectacular treasures to prove it. Rome has provided the pretty backdrop to many a Hollywood movie: Three Coins In The Fountain, Seven Hills of Rome and Roman Holiday to name but three.

It’s the city of the Caesars, of romance, the city of la dolce vita and long sunny days, the city of endless art, churches and museums, fountain-splashed piazzas and majestic monuments to its golden age of empire. Those monuments will already be familiar to many – the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, St Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. But one of the greatest pleasures of exploring Rome is the number of times you stumble across hidden corners, wonderful viewpoints, evocative street scenes and touching vignettes of daily life.

The ancient town of Tivoli is the most popular one-day excursion from Rome. Some 20 miles from the city centre, it’s known for two main sights, the Villa d’Este, a Renaissance villa celebrated for its
Gardens, and the Villa Adriana , a vast villa and grounds created by the Emperor Hadrian.

Trains run from main termini to Tivoli, but this can be a slow journey.

Buses depart every 10 or 20 minutes from the Ponte Mammolo Metro station (Line B). The journey time is 50 minutes. If you have time to spare, Frascati offers a cool, calm retreat from Rome’s heat and hustle.

The Villa Aldobrandini was built at the end of the 16th century and was one of the few old buildings to survive the bombing during 1943 and 1944 that destroyed 80 percent of old Frascati. The villa itself is closed to the public, but some of the grounds are open and offer excellent views of Rome in the hazy distance. Trains depart from main termini every hour and the journey takes 30 minutes.

Helpful Hints about Rome

Language
Italian is delightfully easy on the ear and relatively easy to learn. A few polite phrases might break the ice. Try Buongiorno (Good morning) or Bueno sera (Good evening). Come sta? (How Are You?) or Quanto costa? (How much?)

Currency and Tipping
The Italians use the Euro, made up of 100 cents. Tipping is not expected for all services, and rates are lower than those elsewhere. As a general guide, cabs: round up to the nearest 50 cents; restaurants: around 2 Euros 50; porters: 1 Euro a bag.

Dress Code
Rome can be extremely uncomfortable in the high summer, with temperatures of over 35 degrees Celsius in July and August. Light clothes and sensible planning will prevent you becoming hot and bothered in the Roman fray. Top restaurants might demand formal dress for dinner, but for the majority, it’s smart casual.

Safety
Rome is generally safe, but take precautions. Pickpockets are the main worry so carry money and valuables in a belt or pouch, wear your camera, leave valuables and jewellery in the hotel safe and avoid gangs of street children.

Travel
Many of Rome’s sights can be visited on foot – there are organised walks taking in monuments and other places of interest on the way. There’s also a small, efficient (but crowded) subway system that will take you to the outskirts of the city.

Hotels
There are hundreds of Rome Luxury Hotels available so shop around online for your favourite.

Venice – ‘A city built on water with unequalled beauty, which was once the World’s greatest trading empire…’

Nothing quite prepares you for Venice. You can read about it, see film of it and listen to people enthuse about it, but only when you’re actually on the Grand Canal with the wind in your hair watching a Venetian sunset will you fall under its magical spell.
This is truly a place like no other – a city built on water, where the main streets are canals; there’s traffic, but not as we know it. It’s also a city rich in art, sculpture and music. But there are many other faces to Venice.

The shopping here is as good as anywhere in Italy with all the designer names, as well as crafts such as jewellery, glass and fabrics. There are chic bars and a vibrant nightlife and little surprises round every corner. Wander from your intended route and you could find yourself in a small but beautiful piazza – there might be a little restaurant, a chapel or a shop selling Carnival masks. This is a city for art-lovers and romantics … and anyone who wants a brief escape from the age of the automobile.

The main trips out from the city of Venice are to the islands of Murano and Burano. Murano is like a miniature version of Venice itself, but with more modest palaces and fewer churches. Everything here revolves round the glass manufacturing industry which has been established here since 1292.

A visit to the Glass Museum or one of the many galleries is well worthwhile. Visitors to Murano might like to visit Burano on the same day. This has traditionally been a lace-making centre and the houses here are painted in a rainbow of blue, red, peppermint, russet and yellow – colours that are attractively reflected in the waters of the canals. Both islands are reached by waterbus – the journey’s about 40 minutes.

Helpful Hints about Venice

Language
Italian, with a Venetian accent. Italian is delightfully easy on the ear and relatively easy to learn. A few polite phrases might break the ice. Try Buongiorno (Good morning) or Bueno sera (Good evening). Come sta? (How Are You?) or Quanto costa? (How much?)

Currency and Tipping
The Italians use the Euro, made up of 100 cents. Tipping is not expected for all services, and rates are lower than those elsewhere. As a general guide, gondolas and water taxis: between 5 and 10 per cent; restaurants: around 2 Euros 50; porters: 1 Euro a bag.

Dress Code
Summer isn’t necessarily the best time to visit Venice. Apart from the crowds of tourists, the air can be unpleasantly humid. But if you are there in July or August, light cotton clothes would be ideal, with some warm jumpers for evenings on the canals. Good walking shoes are a must.

The best time to visit is from late April to early July. In the late spring, it rains less often, the air is mild and the long days allow you to dine out of doors in the light of the setting sun. If you time your visit to coincide with the famous Carnival (February), remember that the Adriatic coast is often cold and windswept. Take coat, gloves and rainwear. And in the winter and autumn (fall), remember that high tides can cause some flooding of piazzas, so make sure your shoes are fully waterproofed! Except in the very best restaurants, smart-casual is the accepted dress code.

Safety
Venice is not a dangerous city, apart from pickpockets in the most touristy areas. The usual precautions apply: carry money and valuables in a belt or pouch, wear your camera and leave valuables and jewellery in the hotel safe.

Travel
Venice itself is not so big and the best way to explore it is on foot. A good map is essential and it’s useful to locate and remember a few landmarks like the Rialto Bridge and St Mark’s Square to help you get your bearings. If you do want to go farther afield, you can either take the vaporetto or the motoscafo. The former is big and rather slow, but offers fine vistas of Venice from its open deck. The latter is low over the water and faster, with a smaller deck. You can use it to go to the islands of the lagoon. The Venice Public Transportation company, ACTV, has a useful website with full details of fares, routes and times

Hotels
A huge selection of Venice Luxury Hotels available so shop around online to find the one that suits your needs.

Florence – ‘Located in the heart of Tuscany, Florence is considered the birth place of the Renaissance…’

Few nations, let alone cities, can boast of having nurtured such a remarkable heritage of artistic, literary, scientific and political talent as Florence, or Firenze. The roll call of artists and writers who lived and worked in the city is extraordinary – Dante, Donatello, Botticelli, Michelangelo and Machiavelli, to name but a few.

Renaissance Florence remains very much intact and in evidence at every turn. However, its historic palaces, great churches, exquisite sculptures and countless other works of art are not crumbling relics but still a vivid and functional part of everyday life – worked in, lived in, prayed in, prized by present-day Florentines and accessible to all.

Florence is far from being austere and haughty. Alongside the museums, art galleries and historic churches there are designer shops, beautiful piazzas, chic restaurants and cutting-edge clubs. It’s a city of a thousand secrets.

Independent travel to nearby cities is easy. Regional train and bus services cover the whole of Tuscany. Take the No 7 bus from Santa Maria Novella railway station for the little hill-top town of Fiesole for an escape from the city’s summer heat and wonderful views over Florence and the Arno Valley.

Roughly 50 miles west of Florence lies Pisa, the birthplace of Galileo and home of the fabled leaning tower. It can be reached by train from Florence’s mainstation, Santa Maria Novella.

Siena, 21 miles south of Florence, is a mediaeval hilltop city with a maze of narrow winding streets that have survived virtually unchanged from the 16th Century and earlier. It can be reached by Sita’s regular express bus service. If you’re in Italy on July 2 or August 16, it’s worth going out of your way to see the palio, a traditional bareback horse race that’s been held in the Piazza del Campo in Siena since the 13th Century. It’s hot, crowded and utterly crazy!

Helpful Hints Helpful Hints about Florence

Language
Italian, with a Florentine accent. Italian is delightfully easy on the ear and relatively easy to learn. A few polite phrases might break the ice. Try Buongiorno (Good morning) or Bueno sera (Good evening). Come sta? (How Are You?) or Quanto costa? (How much?)

Currency and Tipping
The Italians use the Euro, made up of 100 cents. Tipping is not expected for all services, and rates are lower than those elsewhere. As a general guide, cabs: round up to the nearest 50 cents; restaurants: around 2 Euros 50; porters: 1 Euro a bag.

Dress Code
Florence can be extremely uncomfortable in the high summer, with temperatures of over 35 degrees Celsius in July and August. Cotton and linen clothes are best for coping with the summer heat, but you’ll want a sweater or jacket for the cool evenings in spring and autumn (fall).

In winter, you’ll need warm clothes, a waterproof jacket and an umbrella. Comfortable walking shoes for the cobbled streets are highly recommended. Remember to wear respectable dress for Florence’s churches including something to cover bare shoulders.

Safety
Florence is generally safe, but take precautions. Pickpockets are the main worry so carry money and valuables in a belt or pouch, wear your camera and leave valuables and jewellery in the hotel safe.

Travel
You can easily get around the tourist areas of Florence on foot. The longest walks take twenty minutes at most as the important monuments and museums are contained within half a square mile. Hiring a car is not advised, but you’ll see many young Florentines on scooters and if you’re brave enough and can stand the competition, these can be hired for about 30 Euros a day. If you’re taking a cab, use only the official white taxis with a ‘Taxi’ sign on the roof.

Hotels
There are a wide selection of Florence Luxury Hotels available so shopping online is your best bet to find the perfect choice.

A lovely holiday in Florence and northern Italy

A farmhouse holiday in Florence is sure to be the vacation you never forget. Many old farmhouses in Florence and the surrounding Tuscan region were once the estates of the country’s nobility. Now they are the places where families and friends can all get together in one large, warm, friendly place and make it their home base for discovering all that Tuscany has to offer.

Amenities and Activities at a Florence Farmhouse

The farmhouse holiday Florence style is one that is filled with adventure and relaxation all at once. Situated in the hillsides of Tuscany, a farmhouse is central to some of the region’s best tourist attractions. You are close to cities for their museums and culture, yet away from the noise and hustle and bustle of the nightlife. You are short walk or bike ride from the best pizzerias, cafes, and restaurants, or you can choose to eat a quiet meal at “home.”

Many farmhouse rentals come with some meals included. Also included are the equipment and “toys” round at the homestead. For example, bicycles, swimming gear, even motorcycles can often be borrowed or rented. You can also have use of the pool or drive or walk a short distance to the beaches along the coast, depending on where your farmhouse rental is located.

Both long and short term rentals are possible at a Florence farmhouse. The rates are generally between 400 and 800 Euros per week depending on how many people are in your party. The price will also be higher if meals are included.

Why Choose a Farmhouse

A farmhouse offers the space and flexibility to explore the region at a relaxed pace. It is also great for families with smaller children who may need the room for running and playing. A quieter atmosphere and the close proximity to attractions, make a farmhouse an attractive alternative to hotel living for families with young children.

If you prefer nature and the outdoors to city life, then this is a vacation where you can hike, ride horses or bicycles, and swim by day and then eat, drink, dance, and get a good night’s rest by night. The owners of the farmhouses have usually had the homes in their families for generations and make visitors feel like long lost relatives with their warmth and hospitality.

What is Included?
More advantages to staying in a farmhouse are the home like amenities that are included with your rental. You will access to the kitchen, more than one full bath, laundry facilities, and the room for family members to have their own space, instead of crowding into a couple of small hotel rooms.

The best of both hotel life and home life are combined at the farmhouse. You will have housekeeping services that change bed linens and take care of making sure you have plenty of clean towels. You will also be able to get to know your hosts, many of which will cook meals according to your preferences and requests. There is nothing quite as inviting as an Italisan Mama making the pasta just the way you like it!

The Wonderful Wildlife of Southern Spain

69, 70,71, 72. I am trying to count the Griffon Vulture’s as they glide effortlessly on their 2m. wingspan over the top of the mountains opposite my home.

Earlier I was checking the damage to our vegetable patch as the wild boar were here again last night and they seem to have taken a shine to my husband’s carrots!

I glance up as I hear the screech of a Booted Eagle letting his mate know she has nothing to fear from the carrion eating vultures as their constant circling takes them further and further down the valley searching no doubt for some unfortunate Ibex or goat who tried one leap too many.

The wildlife here is phenomenal nd the variety of birds seems never ending. Last night we could hear the hooting of the European Eagle owl at the valley bottom and at the sametime were lulled back to sleep by the beautifu singing of a nightingale perched somewhere outside our bedroom window.

After living here for over 14 years I am still amazed by the diversity of wildlife. I am still in awe at the glimpse of a yellow flash through the undergrowth as a Golden Oriele goes about it’s business.I love to watch the comic Hoopoe hopping frantically about chasing insects and the sound that I can only describe as gunfire as the many varieties of woodpeckers seek out grubs. I am especially intrigued by the vast Array of birds of prey soaring effortlesly over our home, many of which I still can’t identify.

The setting is one of wooded valleys and majestic mountains with large swathes of wild flowers in the spring and many varieties of fruits and nuts in the summer, autumn and winter.

I find a net and remove an unwanted guest, ( a salamander) from the pool and then put on my bathers and have a dip.

Where is this paradise I hear you ask? Well it might surprise you to know that at the weekends I travel 20 minutes with my husband and all his Karaoke equipment to the bustling bars of the Costa del Sol where he works.

Yes, we live in Andalucia. the Real Spain. Less people, less traffic and over 70% of all European wildlife- a veritable paradise indeed.
Article submitted by Ruth Polak who is the owner of http://www.costadelsol-vacationrentals.com A Web site specializing in holiday villas and apartments on the Costa del Sol and in Rural Andalucia. You will also find lots of information on Spain, and Andalucia in particular.

A Great Vacation In Benidorm, Spain

Before you plan your next vacation in Europe, consider a vacation in Benidorm, Spain. This beautiful town is located in the Costa Blanca, north of Alicante, with its large international airport, and just south of Altea. A short drive from Benidorm will take you to many of the attractions of the cities of the Costa Blanca such as Calpe, Javea and Denia. The large city of Alicante is nearby and offers many attractions and conveniences. But Benidorm itself has lots to offer the vacationer. There are many vacation apartments in the town’s high rise buildings, and they are a stone’s throw from the beaches. With the Costa Blanca’s wonderful climate, this adds up to a perfect vacation.

In addition to the wonderful beach life, Benidorm offers vacation visitors fabulous nightlife. There are at least thirty discos or dance clubs, and hundreds of restaurants, all within steps of the beaches. Spend a day in the sun, then eat a fabulous meal, then dance till the wee hours, then start all over again the next day. What a perfect vacation!

But for those who want to see some interesting architecture while they are are on vacation, Benidorm has a lot to offer them as well. There are many cultural attractions in Benidorm. The old city, or Casco Antiguo, has beautiful historic buildings all along the old avenues of San Lorenzo, San Vicente and Santa Fez.

Another great attraction in the Benidorm region is the golfing. The entire Alicante region around Benidorm has lots of golf courses for the visitor to enjoy. Some of the most popular are the Bonalba Golf Bulb, Mutxamel, the Alicante Golf Club, San Jan beach and the Bosque Golf and Country Club, Chiva. This is just a sampling of the wonderful golf activity available, since there are dozens of golf clubs in the region.

Benidorm also offers theme parks for those on family vacations. The three largest are the Terra Mitica, Mundomar and Aqualandia.

But despite all of these attractions, beach going remains the main attraction of Benidorm. The beaches are beautiful and the climate is warm especially in the summer. Nearby mountains form a barrier from the harsh winds from the north, giving Benidorm perfect beach days, summer or winter. The main beaches in Benidorm are Playa de Poninete and Playa de Levante. The sandy beaches stretch out for miles and miles under the glorious Spanish sun. Each of the beaches has its own personality, but if you like a little quieter atmosphere, Playa de Levante is the more serene.

Travel To Italy – Rome And Venice

Where does one begin to start when discussing Italy. Well, if you intend to travel there, Rome and Venice are good places to start.

Rome

Perhaps you’ve heard of it? It goes without saying that Rome has a rather prominent past. Lets see, in Rome you will find…[deep breath]…the Vatican, Coliseum, Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Church of Saint Agnese, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps and a guy name Allassandro. Just making sure you’re paying attention. Indeed, Rome is filthy with historically significant attractions. It seems you can’t turn around without bumping into something an Emperor built, captured or destroyed. For those willing to risk potential wrath, there are also the new Divinci Code tours, which take you to the locations found in the book.

In all serious, Rome is a city you should visit at least once in your life. No article could ever do it justice, so I’ll just stop here.

Venice

I fondly refer to Venice as the floating city even though it is apparently sinking. If you’ve seen Venice is movies or televisions shows, the depictions are accurate. Piazza San Marco looks exactly the same, birds and all. The Grande Canal is, well, a grand canal with incredible houses lining it and boats putting up down this water way. Built on mudflats in a lagoon, the city doesn’t really have much room to grow. It just seems paralyzed in time.

Once you’ve conquered the tourist attractions, it will be time to get serious about Venice. The best way to do this is stand in front of your hotel or hostel, determine which direction the tourist attractions lie and start walking in the opposite direction. While you may feel like you’re driving the wrong way on a freeway for a few minutes, you’ll eventually start getting into real Venice.

An entirely different side of Venice will appear and you’ll love it. You’ll find little cafes with locals happy to talk to you [and non-tourist prices]. In fact, the Venetians will tend to hold you in high regard since you’re a tourist who is bypassing the tourist areas. This, of course, will logically lead to a whirl of introductions to this nephew, that son of a brother and so on. Next thing you know, you’ll be complaining about Italian politicians and how things used to be better in the past.

While Rome and Venice are excellent travel destinations, you can’t really go wrong in Italy. For the adventurous, set your itinerary with the old map on a wall and dart technique.

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