Archive for 'Venice'

For whatever reason, it seems as if almost all the world's favourite cocktails come from Venice. Perhaps, it is because the city has always seemed to magnetically draw artists and writers to it and, as we all know, many a creative type has been known to be fond of a drink. Or, maybe, it is because the city has ever been one of the most glamourous destinations in the world where the rich and famous go to enjoy the surroundings and the good life; particularly, the fine dining and the drinks that inevitably are paired along with the food. Either way, it seems that the clientèle of bars in Venice have always been a discerning lot and, due to this, it has kept the city's bartenders on their toes. Certainly, it just adds to the long list of reasons to visit the city so why not find a holiday rental in Venice and try out one of their legendary bars such as Harry's Bar? If it was good enough for Hemingway then you'll surely enjoy it!

This environment seems to have encouraged great creativity and Venice, in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, was the birthplace of many drinks which went on to become standards in bars around the globe. One cocktail from the city that you are likely to be unfamiliar with, however, is the Sgroppino which is basically a boozy smoothie – sounds good, right? Made with lemon and smooth and icy cold, it's often seen as the perfect Summer cocktail. However, it is also a brilliant palate cleanser which can be used to help enhance a delicious meal. Its origins are uncertain but it is said to have once been used as a digestif by Venetian nobility – intrigued? Here's how to make it for yourself.

The canals of Venice are one of her most distinctive and defining features. They are the first thing that comes to mind when that great city is mentioned and, while the gondola might be the most obvious way of traversing these waterways, bridges are also key to making your way around the city. As a result, these too, have become one of the city's iconic features with the likes of the Rialto Bridge featuring in endless postcards, family photos and movie scenes. Another of the most famous bridges in Venice, however, is the slight less well-known “Bridge of Sighs” by the Doge's Palace. In order to discover this intriguing piece of Venetian history and architecture for yourself, first find a holiday rental in Venice and then spend some time on her canals.

Words like “elegant” and “beautiful” come to mind when you ask most people about the city of Venice. Immediately, they imagine the canals, gleaming white churches and pretty Byzantine-influenced and Gothic palaces. However, as colourful and eye-catching as much of the city is, the rest cannot compare to the dream-like, saturated vision that is presented by Burano, the island in the Northern Venetian Lagoon. Home to an old village with fishing traditions dating back to Roman times, it is most well-known for the lace produced in the area, as well as its bright, multi-coloured houses that seem like something from a storybook or film set and not real life. If you want to experience this quirky little village for yourself, just find a vacation rental in Venice.

You won't be stuck for things to do in Venice - there is a vast wealth of things to see and do everywhere you turn. However, it might not necessarily be the most child-friendly place in the world. Or certainly, it may seem that way at first. Kids need a sense of adventure and a reward for all the places and tourist destinations that require lots of being quiet and paying attention. Why not reward them by doing some things that are a little bit different and bound to get them excited? Here are just three of many things to do with the kids so why not find a holiday rental in Venice and get exploring together?

We've already discussed some of the works of art left by great Venetian Renaissance master Titian around Venice but there are many more examples to consider. In fact, you could spend days just following his trail all around the majestic city. This is actually a rather good way to explore the buildings of Venice that might not otherwise make it on to your itinerary. It might seem like a trip to Italy features too many visits to churches and that one church is very much the same as another but this is not the case. These are not merely religious buildings but great works of art with limitless joys and secrets to bestow should you look a little more closely. Popping in to see a Titian on display gives you an opportunity to also take in some of the most beautiful parts of the city and some of her loveliest buildings. Just find a vacation rental in Venice and get exploring!