Archive for 'Localities'

Italy has inspired, produced, and been the setting of lots of incredible films throughout the decades. In fact, due to a particularly rich period in the 20th century when Italy produced, arguably, many of the best movies ever made, it is a perfect destination for serious cinephiles the world over. From, “The Bicycle Thieves,” to, “The Godfather,” to, “Cinema Paradiso,” to, “Life is Beautiful,” to, “Gladiator,” to “Call Me by Your Name,” the list of incredible films made or set in Italy is endless and, luckily, some of them even have backdrops and settings that can still be visited. So, if you're interested in a whistle-stop film industry virtual tour (for now and hopefully in person sometime soon!) of Italy, read on and discover the perfectly picturesque places in Italy that have graced the silver screen throughout the history of cinema...

Everyone knows that the best part of travelling is getting to try new culinary delights and gastronomic adventures that you might otherwise have never experienced. However, just because we all might be stuck at home right now doesn't mean you have to miss out on this aspect of travelling, with an internet connection at hand, you can readily explore and try out dishes from all over the globe from your own kitchen! So, if you're craving something a little different and want to turn your hand to experimenting in the kitchen, why not try these tasty, unique, and sometimes bizarre, Italian dishes?!

As Italy was the birthplace of the Renaissance and has, and continues to, given rise to some of the most famous artists to ever exist, there is an incredible artistic heritage in the country and endless museums, galleries, churches, towns, mural walls, stately homes, temporary exhibitions, and more that are stuffed with outstanding works of art to take in all over the country. However, if, as in moments like this, you can't quite make it to Italy or her exhibitions then fear not! A large number of truly excellent exhibitions and world-class museums and cultural institutions are available online to visitors through virtual tours and other online resources. We've rounded up a list of some great examples that you can visit right now from the comfort of your own homes as we all look forward to adventures in the real thing sometime very soon in the future...

As there are incredibly lovely surroundings and views, an elegant and relaxing atmosphere, and leisure activities aplenty to choose from, Lake Garda has long been a place where the rich and famous have chosen to make their homes or to build holiday homes. Accordingly, along the shores of Lake Garda and on the islands throughout the lake, you will find some of the most impossibly beautiful estates, villas, and mansions in the entire world. If you have found a vacation rental in Lombardy or a holiday rental on Lake Garda and you are exploring the region or, better yet, if you have a particular interest in stately homes, architectural gems, and amazing gardens, then you will be very much in luck as there are lots of astounding treats to discover in and around Lake Garda. One such fascinating (albeit controversial) site is the Vittoriale degli Italiani (The Shrine of Italian Victories), a hillside estate in the town of Gardone Riviera.

The Vittoriale degli Italiani’s most famous inhabitant was the Italian poet Gabriele d'Annunzio who has left the biggest mark on the property to this day and under whom large expansion and reconstruction was undertaken. D’Annuzio is, today, a controversial figure, a talented writer and famous rogue who is considered a proto-fascist and was once a rival to Mussolini’s leadership of Fascist Italy.

Milan, the beautiful fashion capital of Italy and regional capital of Lombardy, is a chic, metropolitan gem that is a must for anyone who likes excellent museums, impossibly cool boutiques, headquarters for famous fashion brands, stylish residents perfect for people watching, elegant and trendy cafes, bars, and restaurants to hang out in, a vibrant nightlife, and much more besides. It is the epitome of a chic urban destination and if you find a vacation rental in Milan itself or visit on day trips from a holiday rental in Lombardy, you will quickly be able to see for yourself exactly why it continues to hold its title as one of the most fashionable cities in the world. However, as you dart around to see and do all that Milan has to offer, you may need a bit of an oasis of calm to retreat to for a while and catch your breath before carrying on. If so, Sempione Park is a perfect choice: a vast and beautiful park in the centre of the city!