10 mouth watering foods you shouldn’t miss on an Italian Vacation

Deciding the top 10 dishes of Italy seems like an impossible task. From the Northern rustic flavors to the fresh light dishes of the South - Italian food is full of fantastic cuisine. Pasta, risotto, pizza, sea-food, the yummy desserts – endless variety and options to fill up your platter. Here are the 10 dishes that should be tasted on a Italian Vacation.

1. Pizza Margherita


Starting with one obvious choice: the famous Pizza Margherita was created in Naples by Raffaele Esposito in honour of Queen Margherita. The famed dish consists of three ingredients: tomato, basil and mozzarella.

2. Cichetti


The little plates of Cichetti feature seasonal vegetables and sea foods and has varied options from basic bar snacks to experimental colorful dishes.

3. Risotto Scampi e Limone


It is an absolute choice specially when you are visiting the Amalfi coast of Italy. The chefs often use its famous big and juicy lemons in the local cuisine. The freshness of the lemon juice and shrimps makes it a perfect summer delicacy.

4. Bistecca alla Fiorentina


Bistecca alla Fiorentina is a traditional Florentine beefsteak which finds its place on almost every restaurant platter in Florence. The steak is cooked over red burning coals for a perfect taste and eating experience.


5. Parmigiana Melanzane


Parmigiana Melanzana is a tomato and cheese eggplant bake. Though the dish is originally from the South, it can be found everywhere in Italy. The cheesy dish also comes with zucchini instead of eggplant!


6. Orecchiette con Broccoli di Rape


Orechiette is traditional pasta of the Puglia region. This fresh and thick delicacy is difficult to find elsewhere in Italy. The freshness if the ingredients make the dish incredibly tasty. The dish is perfect for the winter months as broccoli rabe grows in autumn.

7. Funghi Porcini con Pasta al Tartufo Nero


In October and November, truffles grow abundantly in the Tuscan region. So, a Tuscan eatery would be your ultimate destination if you want to treat yourself with Porcini mushrooms with black truffle pasta! A heavenly taste to indulge in.


8. Spaghetti al Nero di Seppia


Your pasta becomes a little bit more exotic when you try Spaghetti with cuttlefish ink! To make this dish the black ink of the mollusk is infused into the pasta. This traditional Sicilian dish is infectiously addictive.

9. Tiramisu


Now this is the time for some typical Italian sweet-dish. The famous Tiramisu is served all over the world, but none can match the fineness of its Italian counterparts. This delicious dessert is prepared by soaking lady fingers in Espresso.

10. Cannoli


This pastry dessert is a staple item of Sicilian cuisine and it should be in your bucket list when you are travelling in Italy. The taste of the crispy shells filled with creamy ricotta will give you a heavenly feeling.
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African Tour – Discover Why The Safari Is A Life Changer

Africa is undoubtedly the number one choice for a safari experience. For some people, it can be quite challenging to think of reasons to visit Africa especially if they have not heard much about the continent or heard news just about the negative things about the nation.

For seasoned travellers, safaris are the best ways to enjoy the holidays and if you are wondering why, here are five major reasons why you should choose an Africa safari this coming holiday.

Africa has cheap destinations

Africa is the ideal destination for those who are on a limited budget because it has many attractions that can be visited without breaking the bank. The cost of living in the continent is quite low and with twenty dollars a day, exclusive of accommodation, one can get enough meals and pay for a city transport. In fact, a traveler may still have a change for his bucks that he can tip to a friendly restaurant staff.
Many African countries have placed tourism at the core of their economic plans. Because of this, they try to do everything to promote what their locations. As a promotional strategy, they may reduce visa fees and airline parking fees on their airports during low tourist seasons to attract more travelers.

Widest range of attractions

When it comes to the wonders in Africa, even a whole year vacation is not enough. There are a lot of natural sceneries to explore, from mountains to valleys, to rivers as well as lakes. There are also falls, ox-bow lakes, gorges and volcanoes.
Africa is also abundant in terms of wildlife which includes the big five cats, mammals, birds, and amphibians like crocodiles. The culture of the hundreds of tribes has unique attributes that will leave any traveler mesmerized as they discover a number of artifacts.


Natural interaction experiences


Wild animals can be attractive but seeing them live in their natural habitat is very different than watching them in a zoo, where some of them have been tamed. Going to Africa gives you an opportunity to actually drive to game parks and watch carnivorous animals in the wild as they hunt, kill and eat their prey.

You will get a better experience than what is offered on reality TV, especially when you visit an African village and meet the locals.

Africa provides a welcoming hospitality experience

When you get to Africa, you might be tempted to withhold from interacting with the people because they are strangers, but after a few days, you will realize that their friendliness rubs on you. Soon, you will be smiling and interacting with them.

The experience extends to the services offered at various facilities, as staffs are always warm and ready to give you a personalized experience that is worth a return.

The destination gives you a wholesome quality experience

African safaris come as a complete package of experiencing culture, interacting with nature and wildlife and communicating with the locals. Going for a single safari often feels like combining more than three different vacation experiences into one trip. Whether you are a luxury spender or a budget traveler, the wholesome experience is always available when you are in Africa.

An African safari allows travelers to explore what the continent has to offer. There are plenty of travel agencies that arrange a travel to Africa and this will give you the opportunity to have your first safari experience
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Australia's Highest Peak


MOUNT KOSCIUSZKO 

With a height of over 2,200 meters, Mount Kosciuszko otherwise known as the Snowy Mountains is considered one of the seven summits in the world. The seven summits are the highest mountains of each continent, and is considered a great mountaineering challenge to conquer them all. If mountaineering isn’t your forte, you can immerse yourself in a region that is alive with many seasonal activities. 


 The Snowy Mountains is a three hours' drive from Canberra and six hours from Sydney Australia, the drive boasts incredible views and attractions on the way. During the winter season, it is an awesome escape to touch your first snow, make snow angels, build a snowman, ski, snowboard, have snowball fights and more fun winter activities! But make sure you gear up from the many snow hire stores scattered around the area, it will get quite chilly! 


IT’S NOT ALL ABOUT THE SNOW 

In the warmer months, there are still plenty of things to do. Going into late spring, the Snowy Alpines turn into the ultimate outdoor escape. The Snowy Mountains resides within the Kosciuszko National Park that covers 700,000 hectares. So without all the blistering snow it is a perfect place for adventurers and thrill seekers alike. You can go hiking, rafting, kayaking, mountain biking, camping, caving, horse riding or even watch wildlife. 

The most exhilarating ‘must-do’ activity is to reach the highest peak, taking in the uplifting and stunning picturesque view Australia’s highest peak has to offer. The fastest and easiest way there is to take the Kosciuszko Express Chairlift to the highest access point. This 15 minute ride goes up 560 metres, showing you incredible views as far as the eye cans see. Once reached, the trek to the peak is approximately 6km, so have your hiking boots at the ready! Along the way, you’ll see many daunting peaks, waterfalls and unique flora that only grow within that area. This national park attracts and entices many nature lovers alike. 


Deep within the park lies the Yarrangobilly caves, these limestone caves are a stunning sight to see, consisting of underground chambers and thermal pools. You can create your own adventures, maybe fishing is more of your interest. The pristine waters of the Snowy Mountains has an abundance of trout and salmon, so embark on your own venture, and you could possibly catch more than you bargain for. They also hold the Trout Festival here annually in November. 

With the passing of the snow, it leaves way to impressive dirt tracks, becoming a haven for mountain biking and 4WDing. From hardcore downhill runs to flat terrains, Kosciuszko National Park has it all. 

THERE’S MORE THAN YOU THINK 

In the day, enjoy the great outdoors and soak in the sun. By nightfall grab a beer or dine at some of the most lavish restaurants Kosciuszko has to offer. There are many towns scattered within the National Park, each having their own rich cultural heritage. These towns have helped shaped Australia’s identity, and with their vast amount of restaurants, nightlife, cafes, retail and attractions, a whole array of experiences are available. 

There are plenty of accommodation types at Kosciuszko available, from cabins, cottages, hotels and resorts you can choose what best suits you. Camping and caravan options are also available during the warmer months for those that want to take it to the next level. 

Don’t hesitate at the name ‘Snowy Mountains’, it is definitely just as good with or without the snow. So find your inner self, and enjoy the many activities with friends or family. 
(image source: creative commons)
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Best Luxury Winter Getaways of Greece

Greece

Greece is not only a wonderful summer destination. This Mediterranean country is the place of some magnificent mountains, ski resorts, opulent chalets and mouth watering cuisine, which makes it a top holiday destination throughout the year. Here are some of the best luxury winter destinations of Greece.

1. Parnassos

Parnassos is a majestic mountain and ski resort located just 2 hours away from the capital, Athens. Its closeness to the city, its verdant nature, the ancient relics of Delphi and some sumptuous local cuisine have turned its adjacent town, Arachova, into a ultimate winter retreat. Plush accommodation and fine dining has made this place immensely popular among tourists.

2. Arcadia


The beautiful mountains of Arcadia, a ski resort and an excellent river rafting point have made this place the most loved winter travel destination among tourists from all over the world. This place has a great historical importance and it offers some great mouth watering winter food. With a lot of things to do, see and taste, the classic villages around the Arcadia mountains make for a wonderful Winter getaway.

3. Kastoria

Kastoria has become a great travel destination throughout the year because of its enchanting and breath taking nature. This place is distantly located far away from the cities, near the borders of Albania and it features some wonderful winters, with a frozen landscape that will make your heart beat stop. The Aliakmonas river is ideal for rafting, the mountains are perfect for village hopping, and the old town district, Dolco, is famous for some illustrious architecture and sumptuous local food.

4. Korinthia

Korinthia has set foot in the winter destination league just a few years ago, when some plush chalets were erected in the adjacent mountains. With them some affordable traditional inns and fine dining eateries popped up as well. Take the romantic routes through the forest to experience the beauty of the lakes and the scenery. Korinthia’s vicinity to Athens makes it an ideal weekend destination, while the higher altitude boasts of freezing temperatures when the temperature of Athens is still warm.

5. Zagorochoria

Nothing can be wrong for you in Zagorochoria. You can’t really choose a village for your accommodation that’s not breathtakingly beautiful. Here the hotels, taverns, restaurants everything is more than perfect. Go for a rafting session in Voidomatis river, trek in the Vikos gorge and take a thrilling horse ride along the river. Zagorochoria is just 5 hours drive from the city of Athens which makes the experience even more wonderful.

6. Tzoumerka

Tzoumerka, is actually a number of traditional villages encircled by beautiful mountains, deep canyons and steep rocks. Ancient monasteries and dilapidated bridges will take you back to the past. The Arachthos river adds to the outstanding beauty of the landscape and it also offers a great rafting experience. It is undoubtedly a traveller's dream destination.


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A Romantic Vacation in Australia : Things you must do

The enchanting natural beauty of Australia can be summed up in three words – Pure, Tranquil and Untouched. This part of the world will definitely make your love bloom with many colours.


1. Go for a seaplane ride over the Heart Reef


Nestled in the flamboyant Great Barrier Reef, the Heart Reef is surely a ideal place for lovebirds. Go for a seaplane ride to witness the heavenly beauty, enjoy a romantic dinner on the beautiful white sands of Whitehaven Beach or drench yourself in the pristine blue waters of the famous Whitsunday Islands.

2. Dine under open sky at Sounds of Silence of Uluru


Set against the canvas of the magnificent Uluru, Sounds of Silence pledges a unique romantic dining experience. Enjoy a sumptuous dinner under the starry sky with your sweetheart. Uluru is also regarded as one of Australia's most notable landmarks and it is a World Heritage Site.

3. Experience the incredible view with a Twilight Bridge Climb at Sydney


It is said that a city becomes most romantic at twilight, when the setting sun colours the horizon in a red-gold hue. And there is no other place than the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge to get a better view of the city. A climb across this iconic structure takes about three and a half hours.

4. Stay at an underground hotel at Coober Pedy, South Australia


Experience a romantic coziness at a underground hotel at Coober Pedy. In the summer months most of the city's inhabitants takes refuge to unique underground residences called 'dugouts.'

5. Pamper your sweetheart at one of Australia's famous lavish retreats.


At the lap of the national parks, overseeing the ocean or amidst the desert sands, Australia's luxury retreats are famous for their grandeur and remoteness. Head to the Qualia Resort on Hamilton Island or the Southern Ocean Lodge at Kangaroo Island to have a lavish romantic date.

6. Hot air balloon ride over Yarra Valley


Floating among the clouds over the verdant greenery of Yarra Valley is a perfect romantic experience . Yarra Valley has lot more to offer with its rich art and culture, famous wine regions and its charming parks and gardens.

7. Drive along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria


You, your loved one, a top open car and the picturesque Great Ocean Road – you cant ask for more on a romantic holiday. With the natural wonders like the Twelve Apostles spicing up the way, this beautiful stretch will make you fall in love again.

8. A concert at the Sydney Opera House


Australia is synonymous with the beautiful Sydney Opera House. The iconic shell roof has become a definitive symbol of the country. And nothing could be more romantic than witnessing a performance at the Sydney Opera House.

9. Walk under the green canopy of Daintree Rainforest


This place seems like it was made for the romantic souls. Hand in hand, taking a stroll through the exuberant green forests of the Daintree, engulfed only by your thoughts and the distinct sound of the jungle. Daintree Rainforest is the largest tropical rainforest of Australia and also a World Heritage Site.

10. Visit the Remarkable Rocks of Kangaroo Island


Located by the margin of the sea at Flinders National Park, the Remarkable Rocks are superbly balanced boulders. Created by 500 million years of sea spray and rain, the charming rocks also provide the fitting vantage point for the spectacular Casuarina Islets. A perfect destination for a romantic evening out with your loved one.
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