Globetrotting Tips for Savvy Traveler

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March 27, 2012 at 2 pm  or 7 pm

Windermere Manor

200 Collip Circle

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Event will be hosted by Uniglobe Instant Travel,  Regent Seven Seas Cruises & AMA Waterways

Please RSVP to one of our Leisure Team Members 

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The title might seem a little obvious, given the fact that Paris is considered one of, if not the, food capital of the world. From wine to cheese, falafel to haute cuisine, this is a food-lovers paradise. 

But while French food might be delicious, it's not always exactly healthy or diet-conscious. Though the pastry shops on every corner might seem tempting, your body won't be thanking you when you're back at home. 

But heck! You're on vacation - why not enjoy yourself?

Fortunately there's a way you can do both. In fact, Beth Collins for Frommers.com just posted an article on this very topic: "7 Secrets to Eating Well in France." She talks to registered dietician and owner/director of Nutrition Energy NYC, Lauren Antonucci, about how travelers can prepare for trips by becoming educated about the foods they'll find abroad. As Antonucci says about her clients, "I want them to enjoy both their vacation and the way they feel when they return home from vacation."

The key here is moderation and choosing food made with quality ingredients. For the iconic baguette for example, opt for pain complet (whole-wheat bread) or pain de seigle (bread made with rye flour). 

It really is a crime to skip the pastries altogether, so instead go for small treats and share the sugary ones with a friend! The article offers a lot of great info and tips (like did you know that softer cheeses have less fat than harder cheeses?) so be sure to check it out.

Our recommendation is to walk as much as possible! Not only will you burn off some of those extra travel calories, but seeing a new city by foot is a great way to capture all of the little things that make it special. 

Photo by Markel Redondo

To learn more about travel to Paris, or to start your next trip, contact the experts at Uniglobe! We're here to help. 

UNIGLOBE recommends Hyatt House (formerly Hyatt Summerfield Suites) located near the airport and pier. Ideal for larger families.

Rate is approx 153.00 plus tax and includes buffet breakfast, social hour on weekdays, airport shuttle and various suite options…some with kitchens.  Does not include shuttle to the pier but great for larger families or families with small children needing more privacy.

Contact us to reserve 1-800-361-1334 or 519-660-6966

It's hard to imagine anywhere more beautiful in the world than the Amalfi Coast (though we might have a few ideas!). A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stretch of coastline on the southern coast of the Sorentine Peninsula in the Province of Salnerno in Southern Italy. It's no wonder this cultural landscape is a major tourist attraction, given the breathtaking views, Mediterranean climate, famous limoncello liqueur, and amazing cuisine. 

The only question is, 

How to see the Amalfi Coast?

Lisa Fantino, an award-winning journalist and New York attorney, posted an article on the Top 5 Ways to See the Amalfi Coast. This is great news, because for as many times as you want to go back, there will be a new way to experience it.

Here's an excerpt from her article:

"By sea – Set sail, board a ferry, rent a local boat called a gozzo and play pirates for a day. This coast, after all, was once the maritime stronghold of the Byzantine Empire in the Middle Ages. The water provides up close views of the ruins of ancient Roman Towers which once stood watch to protect the Amalfi Coast from the Saracens. A sea view allows you to see just how the villages which dot the shore grew out of this rugged, cliff strewn coastline."

Check out the full article, and then contact us at Uniglobe London to get started! We love making travel dreams come true. 

This unprecendented number holds much meaning for the travel industry and the local economies that it affects. Put it into context - about 60 years ago international tourists comprised about 25 million. That's a huge leap with a lot of implications. 

One is that travel has become more accessible. No longer available only to the super rich, nowadays middle class families with some careful budgeting (and professional help!) can afford the trip of their dreams.

Another implication is the level to which many regions have become economically dependent on tourism. As Taleb Rifai, Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization, points out in his article on HuffingtonPost.com ("A Billion Tourists Are Changing The World"):

"Every very extra tourist means more jobs in tourism and related sectors, higher income for families, increased investment in infrastructure and opportunities for development. Tourism - among the top three sources of export earnings for nearly half of the world's Least Developed Countries - is also proving one of the most effective ways to lift people over the poverty line and empower local communities."

He also points out however, that as "one of the only economic sectors based entirely on human interaction" there are deeper seated issues that should be considered; sustainability, for one. Tourists should be respectful of local cultures and peoples, put their travel money into local businesses and support the protection of environmental landmarks. 

To quote,

"At the same time, one billion is a serious responsibility on the tourism sector. Unplanned and poorly managed tourism development can cause serious harm. We need to be capable of building a more responsible tourism sector; one that protects our common heritage while making it accessible to all and providing the means to preserve it."

The bottom line though is good news. There are human interactions possible today never before dreamed of, and our children will benefit from worldly exposure to help build a better future. 

More and more women are venturing out into the world solo, uninhibited by social expectations or insecurities. And you know what? It's not that hard - we can do anything we put our minds too. 

What makes it even easier is the dedicated staff at Uniglobe London that has extensive experience planning trips for women - both group and solo. We want to make any and all of your travel dreams possible. 

Want to take a cruise with an old girlfriend? Done. Visit the birthplace of your Grandma with your Mom? No problem. Spend a couple of weeks roaming Tuscany alone? We have you covered.

One of my favorite travel blogs online is JourneyWoman.com - Evelyn Hannon has all sorts of incredible, helpful info from her many years of travelling. Plus she's a pretty funny writer. 

I came across one post of hers - Should a Solo Woman Traveler Join a Bus Tour? Good question. 

Her answer is yes, and we'd have to agree. She had luck with Trafalgar Tours, and we know of some even better ones for you to join. 

Here's an excerpt from her post:

"Once, as a solo traveler in France, it took me almost a full day by train, bus and finally taxi to reach a wonderful village restaurant I’d read about. With Roberto and our trusty coach in Tuscany we were able to get off the main highways to make stops at treasures the average solo traveller would never have even heard of. My favorite was an authentic Tuscan restaurant nestled in an olive grove just outside Florence. It simply oozed ambience as we were treated to wonderful homecooked food, hospitality and an endless supply of wine."

Start your next trip today with Uniglobe London!

Kellie Bright of the The Kasbah - Gecko’s Grassroots Adventures Blog, posted a terrific Travel FAQ on Central America. 

I’ve been to several parts of South America but have hardly seen any of Central America. A dream of mine is to take a trek across all of Mexico - but then I stop and think how cool it’d be to surf in Nicaragua, or to see the Tikal ruins in Guatemala. Too many choices!

For those dreaming about or planning a trip to the region, this FAQ is a good place to start. Many of the tips can be applied to almost any trip, but it’s full of info and insight. Here’s an excerpt:

Is English widely spoken in Central America?
For the most part, no. However, on the Yucatan peninsula a wide group of people do speak English although the primary language is Spanish. In Belize, the official language is actually English since it is a former British colony. In more touristy countries like Costa Rica you’ll find that more people speak English. Still, you’ll have a better time in the area if you learn a little bit of Spanish before you go, or better yet while you’re there.

Still have some questions? Contact us at Uniglobe Instant and we'll help you with whatever you need! 

Europe may be experienced a number of ways, during any season. This past fall I was fortunate to have enjoyed a Mediterranean Cruise onboard the Sovereign. The 7-night all inclusive cruise was an ideal way to discover this historical and picturesque region of the world that highlighted Barcelona, the French Riviera, Pompeii, Rome, Florence and Tunisia.

From Villefranche, we re-traced the steps of the rich and famous in the French Riviera home to Monte Carlo, Cannes and Nice. The remarkable port of Villefranche offers sunny beaches, sophisticated resort cities and spectacular views. The drive along the highway is spectacular. At times it seemed the bus was barely hanging on to the edge of the road as we looked down the cliff side to the town below. The twisting highway arrives into Monaco, once the home to Grace Kelly and Prince Ranier. The small principality of Monaco is still celebrating the recent marriage of Prince Albert and his beautiful wife, Charlene Wittstock, this past summer. Here one can observe the lovely church and former residence of the Grimaldi family who conquered the area to claim it from France.

Not far down the road is Monte Carlo where you may pass the time people watching, gambling, or race along the Formula 1 Grand Prix route to reach the Casino Square. You can relax by having a glass of local wine and enjoy the scenic view of the gardens.

Our first Italian stop was the bustling commercial port of Naples. From here we enjoyed a quick panoramic tour of Naples taking in the Castle Dell’Ovo, one of five castles in Naples, and visiting the Franciscan Monastery at the hilltop before heading to Pompeii.

The countryside is dotted with vineyards, apricot orchards and farmland.  All the time Mount Vesuvius beckons on the horizon.  We entered the city of Pompeii on foot.  This city was buried under volcanic ash spewed from Mount Vesuvius in 79 B.C.  Wandering through the city ruins, it is hard to believe that 60,000 people once inhabited this place, 40 percent of which were slaves. If planning on being in this part of Italy, it is definitely worth the visit.

From the Port of Civitavecchia we reached Rome, the highlight of our trip. The scenery along the highway is beautiful, with rolling hills, green vegetation, and farmland. In Rome we wandered along the outside of the Coliseum and moved towards the Forum.  Here are the  buildings of the Roman Empire, Renaissance, and 20th century.  We travelled along the avenue to the Trevi Fountain. Not forgetting to throw in our coins, using the right and over the left shoulder to ensure our return to Rome.

We enjoyed a lunch break at one of the many cafes with a slice of pizza and a Cappuccino before heading to Vatican City where you can tour the biggest cathedral in the world, St. Peter’s Cathedral,  Make sure to include a visit to the Sistine Chapel to see the great works of Michelangelo.

Arriving at the port of Livornia, the gateway to Florence, the coach swiftly carried us through the Tuscan countryside, with rolling fields covered with grapevines and poplar trees. The grapes from this region are used to produce Chianti wine.

You pass the walls which once served to protect the city of Florence from its enemies.  Walking through the square towards the Cathedral of Santa Maria Del Fiora we were struck by its beauty. Whether sunny or cloudy, the craftsmanship of the cathedral leaves you in awe. Florence has been renowned for the great minds of the centuries such as Michael Angelo, and Galileo.  Examples of their works and contributions are shown in the National Museum.  It is quite relaxing to take a moment and taste the local wine at one of the street cafes.

Afterward we traveled to the local “straw” market for some souvenirs. Departing Florence, we crossed the “old” bridge dating back to the 1300’s and returned to modern times passing by wind turbines and solar panels lining the fields. Florence is a fabulous city requiring more than a one day visit.
As our Mediterranean cruise ended, we came away truly pleased with our experience. Our delightful journey blended delectable rustic dishes with no shortage of olive oil, pasta and wine complimented by historic cities, country roads and idyllic villages. The perfect holiday!

For more information contact me at 519-660-6966  Ext 248 or email at kmcphail@uniglobeinstant.com

One of the (many) requisites of visiting New York City is also perhaps one of the easiest to realize - grabbing a slice of pie. 

All over the city are pizzerias with above average flavors, which you can enjoy on any kind of travel budget. Many attribute the quality of NYC pizza to the water, which is rich in minerals, and therefore makes for excellent crust. Others point to the prevelant Italian-American influence, or the highly evolved palette of the New Yorker.

Whatever the reason, the pizza here is something special. And some, more special than others. 

Adam Rapp, of TravelDudes.org, is a NY native who posted a great review of three famous NY pizzerias - Lombardi's in Manhattan, Grimaldi's and Totonno's in Brooklyn. 

NYC PIzza Trifecta - Which Pie is the Apple of my Eye? is a mouthwatering breakdown of the city's best slices.  

Inspired yet? Contact Uniglobe Instant Travel to plan that trip to the Big Apple... 

Whether you're window shopping or picking up some souvenirs, here are some tips for shopping in the city.

If you are looking for items unique to Amsterdam, avoid Kalverstraat street. The shops are found all over the world, and the merchandise is overpriced.

Instead visit Leidsestraat (a busy Amsterdam street, located between the Place Royale and the Leidseplein), Het Spiegelkwartier (an absolute must for lovers of art, antiques & curios), the Jordaan, or in particular, one of the ‘negen straatjes’ (nine streets).

The most ‘ethnic’ shopping street in Amsterdam is the Javastraat, an older area just outside the city center.

The Fashion & Museum District located in Amsterdam Zuid (close to the Museum district) is considered the chic area for shopping in Amsterdam. Go for some of the finest designer shops in the city, including designer shoes, health and well-being specialists, massage, fashion boutiques, designer interiors, designer florists and specialist shops.

Some helpful guides: 
9 Streets: Amsterdam Shopping Map Guide

Destination Guide Amsterdam - Shopping

Why not visit Amsterdam this spring? Get in touch with us and make it happen. 

Let 2012 be your year for adventure. The land down under is a dynamic mix of modern, urban cityscapes and rugged, breathtaking wilderness. They have everything from beaches to mountains, food to art. The travel opportunities are endless. 

We've all made them. The "I just can't afford it" or "I don't know the language well enough" - the excuses we make that hold us back from experiencing the world how we really want to.

Let 2012 be different. If there is a destination you've been dreaming about, it's time to make that trip a reality. And Uniglobe Instant Travel can help! Whether it's helping you save a little money or figuring out a way for the entire family to come, our expert travel consultants will do what it takes to get you on your journey.

Still have doubts? Check out this article by Jessica Festa of Gadling.com - 10 Travel Excuses Not to Make in 2012. 

Start your next trip today!

Do you use online travel booking sites?

A Canadian couple are among 300 would-be travellers whose winter vacations were cancelled after it turned out the airline tickets they'd bought on the Expedia website were not meant to be sold to the public. Justin Oberdornfinger and his girlfriend paid less than $600 for two round-trip tickets, on Korean Air, from New York to the South Pacific archipelago of Palau. They bought the deeply discounted tickets in September for the February trip.

The tickets were cancelled suddenly and without warning in November, Oberdornfinger said. He then learned the low price was a promotional deal for travel agents only, which Expedia.ca was not supposed to have posted or sold.

Korean Air notified people that their tickets were void and their money would be refunded. Korean Air also offered affected passengers a $200 travel voucher for a future flight.

"Expedia should have never posted this fare on the internet if they are not going to honour it," Oberdornfinger said.

Do you use online travel booking sites, such as Expedia or Travelocity? Why or why not? Do you see any benefits or pitfalls to using such sites? Let us know in the comments below.
 

It can be extremely difficult to stick to a certain diet when you travel: food on the road isn't always the healthiest, and if you try to cook you might not have access to the foods and kitchen tools you're used to. 

However, with some planning and creativity, you can not only take control of your diet, but probably save a little money too. 

Carolyn Scott-Hamilton, vegan executive producer, creater, host and writer of The Healthy Voyage web series, wrote a guest blog on the travelinggreener.com website: 9 Healthy Cooking + Travel Tips. 

Her list of tips is designed to give you ideas and help you find healthy eating practices while you're on the road. Below is an excerpt, but definitely check out the full article!

Make your hotel room coffee pot your friend. 

"It's not just for coffee anymore! Take miso soup packets or stock up on canned beans and/or soups at the local convenience store or market. Heat up quick and healthy dinners in the comfort of your hotel room. This way you not only save time and money but you eat well before running out for a day of adventure."

When I think back to my trip to Portland a few years ago, two things come to mind: 1) Rain (pretty, refreshing rain - not at all depressing), and 2) the food - OhMyGosh the food.

Turns out that the folks up in the Pacific Northwest have figured it all out. Through a combination of quality land planning, conscious citizens, organic farming movements, and the laid-back culture, comes one of the most excellent foodie cultures in the United States.

Steph, from Twenty-Something Travel, posted an article on Portland: A Budget Foodie's Heave on Earth, naming all her favorite spots to get a cheap but delicious bite of food. Check it out!

Looking for something exotic?

Nicknamed the "Spice Island" for good reason, this beautiful archipelago off the coast of Tanzania is a hotbed of spices and fruit. Take a tour with Zanzibar locals to see and experience first-hand the unique farming culture.

Know

Spices found growing on Zanzibar include cardamon, ginger, nutmeg, anise, cinnamon, jack fruit, kukurma, vanilla, tamarind, and menthol, in addition to henna and soap berry trees, and much more.

The island once produced 3/4 of the world’s cloves, the clove industry being the foundation of the golden age of development in Zanzibar. Cloves are still cultivated today. The island is also one of the few places in the world that saffron - long the world’s most expensive spice by weight - is produced.

Guides will describe in detail uses for the various plants. While some are for flavoring, others are curative: the neem tree, once used as a cure for malaria and indigestion, and the iodine tree, that produces red sap used to fight infection.

Tour

Tours are about $10-$15 USD/CAD. Visit plantations, private gardens, and forests, where you have the opportunity to visit local farmers and speak with them about traditional spices and fruits.

Most tours are by dala-dala - pick-up trucks converted into buses.

Other places of interest include the old Sultan Rest House to view the Persian Baths built in 1850 by Seyyid Said bin Sultan (the first Sultan of Zanzibar) for his wife Princess Shehzard, as well as the Maruhubi Palace Ruins.

Most tours provide lunches of seafood or Zanzibar curry, coconut milk and fresh fruit. 

Be Careful

Avoid buying a spice tour on the street. The “guide” may very well just take your money without a booking. Another common scam is when “guides” act like club promoters, meaning they follow you into (or give you directions to) the office, and the tour price changes from $10 to $15, with you paying the commission.

Check Out

Overland Africa: Spice Tour

Zanzibar Magic Spice Tour: Spices and Fruits of Zanzibar

Zanzibar Quest

Zanzibar.com

Remember

No matter how exotic your next trip is, we can take care of all of the arrangements. Our knowledgable and experienced staff loves adventure and can make your dream trip a reality. Just contact us for more information. 

Anyone who's visited somewhere like Italy or France knows the dilemma of bringing wine back home. Wrap it in a sweater? Ship it? Stick it in and hope for the best?

Wine bottles aren't the only fragile souvenirs to worry about. I remember when I went to the Andes Mountains in Peru and went nuts over all of the amazing clay pottery and ceramics. On the way home, a few of those pieces ended up in, well, pieces, and since then I've been reluctant to buy anything even somewhat breakable.

Well here's some good news - Kara Murphy of Frommer's Travel just posted a great article: Packing Tips for Wine, Art & Souvenirs. Not only does this article have some good tips but also product reviews and recommendations, and warnings about getting through immigrations and customs. 

Remember!

If you have any questions about your trip - even for packing advice - don't hestitate to contact one of our expert travel consultants. We have years of experience and know-how and can get you where you want to go. 

You may have noticed advertisements or articles referring to “theme cruises” and wondered what they actually might be. What is a theme cruise? Do I have to belong to such and such an organization to be able to go on this cruise? How do I know when theme cruises are scheduled and how can I find one that interests me? How can I avoid an uncomfortable situation when the theme is not appropriate for me?

Theme cruises are, as the name suggests, cruises that cater to a particular theme or interest – cuisine or music genre are good examples. Onboard activities and special guests will be focused on the theme throughout the cruise. Below is a list of some example theme cruises that are scheduled for the 2012 summer season by one of the better cruise lines. While this list overviews the theme cruise of one particular cruise line, it should provide a pretty good sense of the variety of themes offered and the bonus value they add to the cruise. Except for cases where the entire ship is chartered, some gay cruises for example, anyone may book onto a theme cruise and participate in the activities. There are no additional charges for most of the activities – they are provided for your enjoyment and/or participation. They are meant to bring many people together who share a common interest

How do you book one of these cruises?

Your best option is to establish a relationship with a travel professional who will get to know you and what vacation most appeals to you. The more the agent knows you, the better s/he will be equipped to serve your needs and help you put together your perfect vacation. He or she can help you find the theme that appeals to you, or help you make sure you do not end up in a situation where you will not welcome the events. For example, if you hate jazz, you probably don’t want to be on a jazz cruise.

Bear in mind many theme cruises are planned well in advance and are heavily promoted to groups and organizations known to be associated with the particular theme. So, if you see one that appeals to you, you probably do not want to procrastinate or you may very well find yourself out of luck. The better ones tend to sell out quickly and the fares escalate as the availability is taken up.

Jacques Pepin Cruise: Master Chef Jacques Pepin has served as Oceania Cruises’ executive culinary director for eight years. On this sailing, he’ll be sure to hold court in Jacques – his first namesake restaurant – as well as in the Bon Appétit Culinary Center leading Q&A sessions, cooking demonstrations and signing books.

Marina “Tuscan Artistry” – May 12, 2012; 10 days, Barcelona-Rome

Spring Music Fest: A broad range of jazz styles will be featured. Six guest musicians, including four headliners, will perform individual main stage shows in addition to more casual jam sessions. There will also be special dance sets and dance instructors.

Nautica “Mediterranean Tapestry” – May 14, 2012; 10 days, Athens-Barcelona

Oceania Club Reunion Cruise: Oceania Cruises loyal past passengers are the guests of honor for two special reunion cruises, which include memorable surprises both onboard and ashore.

Riviera “Iberian Odyssey” – June 17, 2012; 10 days, Lisbon-Rome

Regatta “Radiant Rhythms” – March 6, 2013; 12 days, Buenos Aires-Rio de Janeiro

Italian Wine Immersion Cruise: Highlights include lectures, tastings and special Wine Bars, where guest experts and special musical performers will create the perfect vibe to explore and experience great wines.

Regatta “Italian Interludes” – July 27, 2012; 12 days, Rome-Venice

Vitality & Wellness Cruise: In addition to healthy eating and fitness tips, guests will gain insights on enhancing their mental wellness to live life to the fullest. Spinning, yoga and Pilates classes are also offered at the Canyon Ranch SpaClub and gourmet Canyon Ranch spa cuisine is available.

Regatta “Pearls of the Aegean” – August 8, 2012; 10 days, Venice-Athens

Riviera “Accent on Italy” – October 24, 2012; 10 days, Rome-Venice

Bon Appétit Wine & Food Festival: Epicureans rejoice! The experts at Bon Appétit magazine are assembling culinary stars and wine experts or editors for a palate-pleasing voyage.

Riviera “Enchanted Grandeur” – October 14, 2012; 10 days, Athens-Rome

Marina “Temples & Palaces” – October 22, 2012; 10 days, Athens-Istanbul

President’s Cruise: Oceania Cruises President Bruce Himelstein will host a 10-day voyage through Southern Europe. Special highlights are in store, both aboard ship and ashore.

Nautica “Mediterranean Tapestry” – October 26, 2012; 10 days, Barcelona-Athens

* * * * * * * * *

Don’t  wait!

* * * * * * * * *

Having been a cruise specialist for more than 8 years and cruised more than 30 times, I can help you find the cruise to make your vacation dreams come true. To get your booking started please contact me at:

mmartin@uniglobeinstant.com

Cemberlitas is a historical Turkish bath, a mystical and authentic cultural experience. The Hamam is perfect for relaxing while visiting Istanbul.

Said to be built by the great architect Sinan himself, Cemberlitas is an architectural wonder, with beautiful lighting and a captivating atmosphere. Despite being a 16th century public bath, it is known as one of the cleanest in the city.

The friendly receptionists speak English and are knowledgable about the facility. Many of the attendants speak English too, but not all.

Buy your package (basic for 46 YTL = about $35USD). On the first floor are lockers, and one’s own changing and relaxing room. Included in admission is a towel, loincloth, scrubbing, soaping, washing, and massage. Also available are aromatherapy oil massages, indian head massages and a facial clay mask.

Get undressed in the “cold” area, wrapping your body in one of the cotton towels and pass through the “warm” area to the “hot” area, the Haman’s center. Time is unlimited for the self-service portion.

Sit by one of the marble basins and pour warm water over your hair and body. Lie down on the hot stone in the middle of the room and get a vigorous massage.

If you enjoyed the experience, you may tip, but you are not required to do so.

Hours: Open daily from 6am-midnight. 
Reservations not required. MasterCard and Visa accepted.

Address: Vezirhan Caddesi No. 8; Tram: Cemberlitas (T1)

Remember!

If you want to add Istanbul to your travel itinerary, we have the knowledge and expertise to put together the perfect trip. The city is breathtaking and rich in culture, and we can plan and book your trip according to your budget and interests. Just contact us for more info!

We had a quick panoramic tour of Naples before heading to Pompeii.   We took in the Castle Dell'Ovo one of five castles in Naples.  On the hilltop was the Monastery started by the Francescan Monks.  The port of Naples is a bustling commercial area for this part of  Italy.

The countryside is dotted with vineyards, apricot orchards and famland.  All the time Mount Vesuvius beckons on the horizon.   We enter the city of Pompeii on foot.  This city was buried under volcanic ash spewed from Mount Vesuvius in 79B.C.  Wandering through the city ruins it is hard to believe that 60,000 people once inhabited this place.    Of this population 40 percent were slaves.

If planning on being in this part of Itlay it is definitely worth the visit.

The Port of Civitavecchia is where our tour begins.  The scenery along the highway is beautifull.  The rolling hills, green vegetation, and farmland make a lovely panorama.

In Rome we wander along the outside of the Colesium and move towards the Forum.  Here there are buldings of the Roman Empire, Renaissance, and 20th century.  We travel along the avenue to the Trevi Fountain.  Don't forget to throw in your coins to ensure your return to Rome.  Right hand over your left shoulder. 

Break for lunch at one of the many cafes for a slice of pizza and a Cappucino.  After being recharged move along to Vatican City.  Here you can tour St. Peter's cathedral, the biggest cathedral in the world.  Make sure to include a visit to the Sisteen Chapel to see the great works of Michelangelo.

On leaving Rome take another tour by  the Forum for another  view of the city of Rome.

We arrived into the port of Livornia which is the first step to reaching Florence.  The coach swiftly carried us through the Tuscany countryside.  Rolling fields covered with grapevines and Poplar trees that are later  used for paper production  line the highway. The grapes from here are used to create a particular wine to this region called Chianti.

Entering the city of Florence you pass the walls which once protected the city from their enemies.  Walking through the square towards the Cathedral of Santa Maria Del Fiora you are struck by its beauty.  Whether sunny or cloudy the craftsmanship of the cathedral leaves you in awe.

Florence has been renowned for the great minds of the centuries such as Michael Angelo, and Galileo.  Examples of their works and contributions are shown in the National Museum.  

It is quite relaxing to take a moment and taste the local wine at one of the street cafes.  Everyone is friendly and more than willing to take the time and discuss their magnificent city.  Once rested you can travel to the local "straw" market for some souvenirs of your visit to Florence.  

On the way from Florence, crossing the "old" bridge dating back to the 1300's you return again to the 21st century as can be seen by the turning wind turbines and solar panels lining the fields.  Either way Florence is a fabulous city, that requires more than a one day visit.