Archive for 'Curiosities'

Picture this: you've found a vacation rental in Lombardy and you are spending cold winter days with the Italian Alps, a cute Alpine town and a building that bears an uncanny resemblance to the Grand Budapest Hotel unfolding in front of your eyes as you sit in a hot tub in a spa, soaking your stress away. Then you get out of the hot tub and go get a treatment or go skiing or sit in front of a blazing fireplace in your cosiest clothes with a hot drink and a good book on hand...what could be lovelier than that? You've had a tough, long year, why not treat yourself with the ultimate winter spa getaway in Italy? Why not plan a trip to Bormio.

Many different cultures have variations of fruit cakes that are traditionally made and served during winter and, in Christian cultures, over Christmas, which makes sense as it allowed delicious fruits to be made available even when they were out of season in the past. Today, we have many more ways to access fruits throughout the year and more options when it comes to sweet things, in general, yet these traditional treats are so firmly connected to the festive season that they remain popular.

Sicily is absolutely no different, it has buccellato: a combination of figs, raisins, dates, nuts (usually almonds) and candied citrus like fruits (like citron) that are baked as either a round cookie shell, as a ring cake, or as small pastries. Its exact origins have been lost to the mists of time and it is uncertain as to when Sicilians began making it but it has been around for centuries. Associated with family milestones, it can be given by Godparents to the parents of their godchild or by best man or maid of honour to the parents of the bride and represents good fortune and prosperity.

Murano glass is one of the most famous craft products in the world and is an artisanal glass that has been made on the Venetian island of Murano for centuries. The artisans of Murano were world leaders in innovation and design and created some of the most stunning glass objects that the world has ever seen. Today, they are still employing these centuries-old techniques and making all sorts of things from works of art, to trinkets, to household objects. These pieces are characteristic souvenirs for tourists visiting the city and there are are a number of factories and some individual artists' studios at work on the island to this day.

One of the most important traditions of Milan during Christmas holidays is the Procession of the Magi, which takes place on the 6th of January each year. A large number of people take part in this incredible traditional procession, starting from the central Duomo and making their way, through the city, to end at the Basilica of Sant’Eustorgio. Featuring vibrant costumes, dancers, singers, a circus and the festive spirit, the whole thing is a wonderful spectacle that is a must for anyone who has found a vacation rental in Milan!

The Republic of San Marino is a tiny country located in Italy that is just over 61 square kilometres in size and has a population of approximately 32,000 people. Located on the border between Le Marche and Emilia Romagna, it is the third smallest country in Europe with only the State of Vatican City in Latium, Italy and the State of Monaco in France being smaller. In 2008, it was officially recognised for its unique charms, historical and cultural value, and scenic beauty and was added to UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites.

At Christmas, this pretty and historic little country is even more beautiful and full of things to see and do. Why not come and experience San Marino's unique appeal for yourself this festive season for something a little different? Just find a vacation rental in Le Marche or a vacation rental in Emilia Romagna make a day trip (or maybe two) to this incredible little land.