#Private tours puglia

[classicpuglia]

Choose Classic Puglia for your next Puglia visit

If you have a passion for Italian sights, food, and culture, Puglia is an ideal destination for you. Whether you're planning a trip to Italy or seeking the best places to visit in Puglia specifically, I'm here to assist you in discovering the region's finest offerings. Know more about The Advantages of Choosing Classic Puglia.

[stilltravels]

Walking in Puglia & Matera

Walking in Puglia & Matera

Enjoy easy walks through Italian countryside and stay in three unforgettable towns: Alberobello, Ostuni and Matera.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

Five nights in three-star hotels and two nights in a farmhouse or four-star hotel

Five days of guided walking; one free day

Group normally 4 to 16, plus local leader. Minimum age: 16

Travel by private minivan, bus and train

Option to travel by train to your adventure

All breakfasts, two dinners, one wine and produce tasting

Tour leader throughout

Group arrival and departure transfers available

Date - 31 Aug - 7 Sep 2024

Total Package Price - $ 1,840.00 (per person)

Call or text 6784691977 or email yourstilltravels@gmail.com

www.stilltravelsllc.com

**Prices and availability are subject to change

** Can price different departure airports, numbers of travelers, hotel rooms and dates.

#Puglia#puglia#matera#italy#slowtravel#slowtravelling#travelling#travellingram#travellingtheworld#travellife#luxurylife#luxurytravel#luxury#vacations#travels#travelinspiration#travelagent#travellovers#traveltheworld#stilltravels

[italytouraus]

The Ultimate Guide to Selecting Guided Tour Italy Packages for Families

Ah, Italy! A country where the echoes of ancient gladiators mingle with the sweet scent of gelato and where every cobblestone street tells a story.

For families looking to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of history, culture, and cuisine that is Italy, selecting the Best Guided Tour in Italy can seem as daunting as scaling the Duomo in Florence.

But fear not, dear traveller, for we are here to guide you through the vineyard-laden hills and Renaissance-filled cities to find the ideal package that will leave your family with memories to last a lifetime.

Choosing the Right Guided Tour for Your Family

The first step in selecting guided tour Italy packages is understanding your family's interests and needs.

Are you art aficionados eager to feast your eyes on the Renaissance masterpieces, or is your family more inclined towards the culinary delights and vineyards that dot the Italian countryside? Perhaps you're an adventurer at heart, looking to explore the rugged coastlines and hidden gems of regions like Puglia and Calabria.

Identifying your family's interests will help narrow down the vast array of options and tailor your Italian adventure to your desires.

Timing and Pace

Italy changes with the seasons, offering different experiences whether you visit in the blooming spring, the sunny summer, or the harvest-rich fall.

When considering guided tour Italy packages, think about the time of year that best suits your family's schedule and the type of experience you're seeking.

Additionally, consider the pace of the tour. Families with young children may prefer a slower-paced itinerary with plenty of time for relaxation and play, while older families might seek a more action-packed schedule.

Accommodations

The choice of accommodations can greatly affect your family's tour experience. Guided tour Italy packages offer a range of options, from charming boutique hotels nestled in the heart of historic cities to rustic agriturismos in the countryside.

Look for accommodations that not only provide comfort after a day of exploring but also offer a taste of authentic Italian life. Many families find that staying in places with local characters enhances their experience and provides unique memories.

Cultural Immersion and Educational Opportunities

One of the joys of travelling with family is the opportunity to learn and grow together. Guided tour Italy packages that include hands-on cultural experiences, such as cooking classes, artisan workshops, or archaeological digs, can add an enriching layer to your journey.

These activities not only entertain but also deepen your understanding of Italian culture and history. When selecting a package, look for tours that offer a blend of sightseeing and interactive experiences to engage all family members.

Local Guides

The value of a knowledgeable local guide cannot be overstated. These experts bring the history and culture of Italy to life in a way that books and audio guides cannot match. They can also be invaluable in navigating the challenges of travelling in a foreign country, from language barriers to knowing the best times to visit popular attractions.

When exploring guided tour Italy packages, consider the quality and expertise of the guides. Look for tours that prioritise small group sizes or offer private guiding options for a more personalised experience.

Flexibility and Free Time

While the structure of a guided tour can relieve much of the stress of trip planning, it's also important to have flexibility and free time built into your itinerary.

This allows your family to explore at your own pace, discover hidden gems, or simply relax and soak in the Italian lifestyle.

When examining guided tour Italy packages, check for a balance between organised activities and free time. Packages that offer optional excursions or free afternoons can be a good fit for families seeking a mix of guided exploration and personal adventure.

Safety and Support

Finally, when travelling with family, safety and support are paramount. Reputable guided tour Italy packages provide the security of knowing that logistical details are handled and that support is available in case of emergencies.

Look for tour operators with strong safety records, clear communication channels, and positive reviews from families. This peace of mind allows you to fully immerse yourself in the joys of exploring Italy together.

In Conclusion

Embarking on an Italian adventure with your family is an opportunity to create memories that will be cherished for a lifetime. By carefully selecting guided tour Italy packages that align with your family's interests, needs, and pace, you can ensure a journey that is both enriching and enjoyable.

Remember to consider the timing, accommodations, cultural experiences, and the quality of guides when choosing your package.

With a little research and thoughtful planning, your family can experience the best of Italy's history, culture, and natural beauty in a way that feels personalised and stress-free. Buon viaggio!

[lamilanomagazine]

Da Marsala a Rai 2: i Trikke e Due Cabaret protagonisti con i loro sketch che fanno ridere tutta l'Italia

Da Marsala a Rai 2: i Trikke e Due Cabaret protagonisti con i loro sketch che fanno ridere tutta l'Italia. "Anche quelli di Endemol Shine si sono accorti di noi". Il duo comico siciliano, protagonista su Rai 2 in "E Viva il VideoBox", si prepara ad andare in giro per tutta l'estate con gli spettacoli live! I loro volti sono diventati virali sui social da circa due anni. Gli occhioni azzurri, la voce particolare e l'ingenua comicità "telefonica" di Enzo... Il pizzetto furbetto, le espressioni facciali che "nascondono" sempre qualcosa di Nicola... Enzo Amato Màs con suo cumpàre Nicola Anastasi, in arte i "Trikke e Due Cabaret", di gavetta - dalle radio private alle sagre di paese - ne hanno fatta davvero tanta e, finalmente, dopo il lockdown, anche attraverso i social, sono diventati famosi in tutto il territorio nazionale e non solo. I marsalesi Enzo e Nicola sono stati tra i protagonisti della scorsa stagione estiva isolana. Hanno "abbracciato" il loro pubblico nelle piazze e negli eventi live. Il gruppo comico siciliano Trikke e Due ripartirà con il tour di spettacoli, in giro per la Sicilia e non solo, anche quest'estate che è ormai alle porte. Oggi il loro spettacolo si è tanto "italianizzato", il dialetto stretto marsalese è diventato una sorta di italiano rivisto, e la gente si diverte e ride tanto. Per loro il 2022 è stato un anno importante anche per il debutto a Sicilia Cabaret Off, su Antenna Sicilia con i "Padri Tifosi". In autunno e in inverno hanno finalmente riportato nei teatri al chiuso il cabaret, la corrida e le manifestazioni di arte varia. Dopo l'estate arriverà, finalmente, una commedia teatrale tutta loro, scritta da uno degli autori di Sicilia Cabaret (Lorenzo Pasqua) e "cucita" sul loro genere. Enzo & Nicola: "E' incredibile come alcuni social (TikTok, Reel di Facebook, Shorts di YouTube...) facciano arrivare la nostra semplice comicità oltre la Sicilia, in Italia ormai nei telefonini girano i nostri video con regolarità giornaliera. Nel 2022 oltre 300 milioni di persone hanno visto le nostre video-scenette divertenti. Ci scrivono dalla Germania, dalla Svizzera, dall'Inghilterra e anche dal Canada. E' davvero incredibile tutto ciò. Tra l'altro i commenti sul social sono quasi tutti positivi, perché la gente ha bisogno di ridere e sorridere sull'attualità e ci ringrazia con tanto affetto e amore". Continuano i Trikke e Due: "L'estate scorsa, grazie a questa inattesa popolarità, abbiamo fatto degli spettacoli in Puglia, in Calabria e a Pantelleria. Sono arrivate anche proposte dall'Emilia Romagna (ci piacerebbe regalare uno spettacolo alla popolazione dopo l'alluvione dei giorni scorsi), dalla Lombardia, dal Piemonte e dalla Liguria, ma la nostra agenda era già piena tra luglio e settembre. Oggi un milione di persone seguono i nostri video ogni giorno. Ma noi non vediamo l'ora di regalare sane risate a tutti in presenza, nelle piazze e nei teatri all'aperto. E' questo il nostro vero mondo, il live! I social network, è risaputo, sono diventati un palcoscenico: se sei una persona creativa, divertente, originale e spigliata possono renderti virale e famoso per il popolo del web in pochissimo tempo. Ed è proprio quello che è accaduto a noi. Ma gli spettacoli dal vivo sono tutta un'altra cosa. Anche quelli di Endemol Shine si sono accorti di noi. Ma è presto per parlarne. Ci saranno belle novità e sorprese nei prossimi mesi". Il duo comico è stato protagonista su Rai 2 in "E Viva il VideoBox". Il programma va in onda tutte le mattine dopo le ore 8.00 e, a sorpresa, i due marsalesi avranno un loro spazio per alcune puntate. I due si erano recati presso gli studi per registrare un piccolo sketch ed invece la registrazione è durata molto di più. Il video verrà diviso su più puntate e trasmesso in tv nei prossimi giorni. Così ci raccontano la loro prima "avventura" televisiva nazionale: "La nostra prima esperienza sulla Rai! Bisognava preparare un pezzo da un minuto e mezzo. In 90 secondi, in pratica, dovevamo dire tutto. Ed invece arrivando in redazione, non solo ci hanno riconosciuto tutti ma abbiamo fatto selfie con tutto lo staff e gli autori del programma mattutino di Rai 2. E ci hanno fatto registrare almeno 10 minuti di sketch. Ci hanno promesso che saranno spalmati in più puntate. Il primo è andato già in onda. Poi abbiamo registrato anche fuori, per le strade di Roma, sempre con loro. Siamo felici. Questo è un programma voluto da Fiorello. Rosario lo guarda sempre tutto (ci hanno detto) e poi pesca i vari personaggi per 'Viva Rai2'". Il duo comico, per concludere, lancia anche un messaggio importante: "Alle persone che ci incontrano, e soprattutto ai giovani, che ci fanno i complimenti per questi piccoli ma continui traguardi che i Trikke e Due stanno raggiungendo diciamo: nessuno ti regala niente, niente si ottiene subito. La tenacia, la perseveranza, il lavoro, l'applicazione sono il motore e il cuore di ogni obiettivo, di ogni sogno, di ogni traguardo. La fretta, lo sconforto e il restare fermi e legati al passato non aiutano di certo. Le altre 'armi' da mettere in pratica sono l'umiltà, il non sentirsi mai 'arrivati', la sincerità verso chi ti segue e il rispetto. Sembra strano ma anche la gentilezza, l'educazione e la non volgarità sono le basi per costruire un sogno e far diventare il tuo sogno il tuo lavoro. Ci è capitato spesso di vedere 'promossi' personaggi/colleghi che sono l'opposto di questo elenco fatto fin qui: arroganza, prepotenza, cattiveria, volgarità, maleducazione... Ci siamo anche 'depressi' quando vedevamo che l'arroganza apriva le porte e la nostra abnegazione e il nostro altruismo ce le chiudeva. Ma, poi, alla lunga... La passione è tutto".... #notizie #news #breakingnews #cronaca #politica #eventi #sport #moda Read the full article

[rosswinetours]

Ross Winetours offers customized private wine tours to all wine regions in Italy, from "Puglia" in the south, to Tuscany and Umbria, to the Veneto in the north. For more details visit the site "https://rosswinetours.com/destinations/italy/"

[highsocietymag]

Ristorante Hotel Grotta Palazzese Italy... enjoy. Follow us @highsocietymagazine.official #luxury #private #travel #diner #hotels #lifestyle #puglia #summer #traveler #luxurylife #live #bari #lovely #ristorante #sea #grotta #vacations #restaurante #wonderful #goals #tour #photograph #italy #romantic #exquisite #luxurytravel #traveling #passion #paradise #stunning https://www.instagram.com/p/BxyR7JznG34/?igshid=13zm3ak4ot98k

[luxurytravelcurator]

Clients - family of four - transitioning today from #AmalfiCoast to #Matera on the way to #Puglia. 3 hours drive on a private car arranged by me, to arrive to their hotel for the night at Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita. Followed by a private walking tour of The Sassi and the Park of the Rupestrian Churches of Matera - UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Sextantio project “Le Grotte della Civita” is located in the historic heart of the #Sassi. The 18 caves have been recovered with a careful conservative restoration in full respect of the local cultural heritage. The interior design, the respectful and minimalist approach of @Sextantio is reflected in the furnishing elements. Guests can experience a particular atmosphere that evokes the human and cultural history of the Sassi of Matera. My mission is to transform Tourists into Travelers by experiencing unique travel experiences, moments and destinations worldwide. Luxury Travel Curator, Concierge, Blogger & Lifestyle Consultant. Over 28 years curating the world of Luxury Travel & Lifestyle, one destination at the time. Member of the exclusive @VirtuosoLTD Luxury Network, #AmericanExpress Membership Rewards, Fine Hotels & Resorts and Pay with Points Programs. Affiliated with @BrickellTravel Management and @EMBARKBeyond. Luxury #TravelAdvisor. #Jetsetter #Globetrotter #BonVivant. Founder of @LGTNetwork Luxury #GayTravel Curator, member of @IGLTA. #Travel #Hotel #Restaurant & #Airline reviews. Follow, read and share my travel experiences worldwide. #TravelAgent, #TravelBlogger, #WeddingPlanner #TravelBlog #LuxuryTravel #Luxury #Lifestyle #LuxuryTravelCurator #Concierge #Blogger #VirtuosoTravel #italy #italia #Basilicata #italy #SextantioLeGrottedellaCivita Mobile & WhatsApp +1 (917) 754-5515 / Email info@carlosmelia.com / www.carlosmelia.com (at Matera, Italy) https://www.instagram.com/p/ChhCts3u5Zf/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[travel-voyages]

The Most Overrated Tourist Destinations (and Where to Go Instead)

Where to plan your next vacation instead

I could spend all day listing alternative ideas for your next big vacation. For now, here are some of my top picks to pique your interest.

Touristy spots that you can do right

Angkor Wat, Cambodia. I’m biased, since I lived in Cambodia for a spell, but I believe this popular destination is worth your time if you do it right. These sprawling, ancient Buddhist temples are huge enough that you can easily stray from the beaten path and avoid the overwhelming crowds. Just make sure to get there at sunrise.

Great Pyramids. Again, I’m biased since I visited Giza during the tourist off-season (late June). While a lot of people will call the pyramids overrated, I think those people are somehow spoiled or impossible to please. Book a private tour guide, who will have a wealth of knowledge and also have your back against aggressive vendors. Remember to tip your guide generously at the end of the day.

Hạ Long Bay, Vietnam. It might not look quite like how it does in the James Bond movies, but this moody seascape is still a stunning cruise. I recommend booking a group tour that includes kayaking and caving.

Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Don’t feel bad skipping the Red Light district in favor of the hip Jordaan district. Plus, the Van Gogh Museum is one of my favorite places in the world.

Bangkok, Thailand: Skip the Great Palace and spend your time appreciating Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun. Make sure to try all sorts of amazing street food along the way.

Destinations to add to your bucket list

The following cities have yet to be totally overrun by tourists:

Udaipur, India. A little more peaceful and spread out compared to other popular cities in India.

Lima, Peru. A lively capital city that gets overlooked, but shouldn’t.

Brussels, Belgium. Make sure to book a chocolate tour.

Valparaiso, Chile. From street art to rainbow houses, this city is unbelievably colorful.

Puglia, Italy. Wine, pasta, and beaches.

Budapest, Hungary. The “Little Paris of Middle Europe.”

Dubrovnik, Croatia. Bummed about Hobbiton? This is the main filming location for King’s Landing in HBO’s Game of Thrones.

Denmark’s Faroe Islands. Sheep outnumber humans 70,000 to 50,000 here.

Java, Indonesia. Less-visited than Bali, but just as beautiful.

Petra, Jordan. Known as the “Rose City,” Petra is a series of caves, temples, tombs, and ruins carved from pink sandstone.

Luang Prubang, Laos. The perfect spot for day trip to remarkable aqua waterfalls.

Taipei, Taiwan. This capital city has a culinary scene to die for.

It all comes down to research

Like I mentioned at the top: You can make the most of any journey, so long as you do a little research first. I’m not saying you should map out every minute of your vacation. Just spend a little time online to find the best hours and seasons to plan your visit, and try to gather site-specific tips from all the travel blogs available for free online. Make sure you manage expectations and understand what you’re getting into, wherever you’re going.

https://lifehacker.com/the-most-overrated-tourist-destinations-and-where-to-g-1848911182

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[calabria-mediterranea]

These pretty Italian villages in Calabria want to pay you $33,000 to move in

(CNN) — Ever dreamed of opening an artisan boutique and settling down for good in an idyllic village in Italy's deep south where it's warm almost all year-round -- and get paid to do it?

For those willing to take the plunge, it could soon no longer be just a dream.

The region of Calabria plans to offer up to €28,000 ($33,000) over a maximum of three years to people willing to relocate to sleepy villages with barely 2,000 inhabitants in the hope of reversing years of population decline.

These include locations near the sea or on mountainsides -- or both.

This isn't money for nothing, however. To get the funds, new residents must also commit to kickstarting a small business, either from scratch or by taking up preexisting offers of specific professionals wanted by the towns.

There are a few other catches, too.

Applicants must take up residency and -- sorry boomers -- be a maximum of 40 years old. They must be ready to relocate to Calabria within 90 days from their successful application.

It's hoped the offer will attract pro-active young people and millennials eager to work.

Gianluca Gallo, a regional councilor, tells CNN the monthly income could be in the range of €1,000-€800 for two to three years. Alternatively, there could be one off funding to support the launch of a new commercial activity -- be it a B&B, restaurant, bar, rural farm, or store.

"We're honing the technical details, the exact monthly amount and duration of the funds, and whether to include also slightly larger villages with up to 3,000 residents," he tells CNN. "We've had so far a huge interest from villages and hopefully, if this first scheme works, more are likely to follow in coming years."

New life

Dubbed "active residency income," the project aims to boost the appeal of Calabria as a spot for "south-work" -- the rebranded southern Italy version of remote working -- explains Gianpietro Coppola, mayor of Altomonte, who contributed to the scheme.

He says it's a more targeted approach to revitalizing small communities than the one euro house sell offs that have recently hit headlines.

"We want this to be an experiment of social inclusion. Draw people to live in the region, enjoy the settings, spruce up unused town locations such as conference halls and convents with high-speed internet. Uncertain tourism and the one euro houses are not the best ways to revamp Italy's south," says Coppola.

The "active residency income" project -- and application process -- are expected to be launched online in the next few weeks. The region has been working on it for months and has already earmarked more than €700,000 for the project.

The region of Molise and the town of Candela, in Puglia, have adopted similar schemes in past years as an alternative to selling crumbling homes for the cost of an espresso.

Over 75% of Calabria towns -- roughly 320 -- currently have fewer than 5,000 residents, leading to fears that some communities could die out completely in a few years unless regeneration occurs.

"The goal is to boost the local economy and breathe new life into small-scale communities," adds Gallo. "We want to make demand for jobs meet supply, that's why we've asked villages to tell us what type of professionals they're missing to attract specific workers."

As global travel resumes and Italy welcomes back tourists, visiting the region this summer might be a good way to get a feel of the Calabrian village life.

Santa Severina

This village rises on a tuff rock cliff overlooking the Neto River. It's built in layers depending upon wealth: palazzos belonging to the richer families are at the top of the hill, the humble dwellings below, dug into the rock.

There's a Greek and Hebrew district with palm trees.

The baptistery here is the oldest Byzantine monument in Calabria, while the impressive well-kept castle features frescoed undergrounds and stables.

Santa Severina is known for its oranges. Villagers are dubbed Aranciaru, meaning "orange-eaters" in local dialect. Oranges grown here are the pride of Calabria, due to the fertile soil and exceptional nutritional qualities. They're sought after in top restaurants and fruit shows.

San Donato di Ninea

Dating back to before Greek colonization, this charming village lies in the deepest area of Calabria's Pollino national park.

It's so remote and tucked away on the hills that barely anyone outside of Calabria knew it existed up until the 1970s.

The view from high up on the peaks takes in the region's two seas: the Ionian and Tyrrhenian.

This untouched and pristine location is home to many wild animals and plants and is considered one of Italy's top wilderness reserves.

Orchids grow along mountain trails unwinding to panoramic huts. It's a chestnut heaven with popular food fairs.

Civita

At first even Italian speakers might feel a little lost here. Locals speak a weird-sounding slavic dialect called Arbereshe.

The community was founded in the 1400s by Albanians fleeing the Turkish empire.

Perched on a rocky cliff within the wild Pollino national park once inhabited by bandits and outlaws, this tiny hamlet of barely 1,000 people is what "authentic" Calabria is all about.

The Raganello river gorge, Italy's largest canyon, is dotted with human-shaped rocks.

A serpentine path goes down to the "Devil's bridge." Old traditions, Byzantine rituals and peculiar foods live on.

Old houses are connected by circular narrow alleys dubbed "wrinkles" and have scary-looking chimneys believed to keep evil at bay.

Samo and Precacore

You'll get the thrill of living in two ancient hamlets at the same time here. Samo was founded by ancient Greeks looking for shelter on the hills but not too far from the shore, turning the village into their "harbor."

Time stands still.

In the morning the smell of newly baked bread and fresh cheese wafts over the village as women leave their low-cut peasant stone houses carrying baskets of food on their heads, just like in the old days.

The best part of Samo is its sister-ghost hamlet of Precacore, rising right in front over the valley. From Samo's main piazza a little winding road departs uphill to the abandoned district.

Locals fled following a series of quakes but today Precacore has been brought back from the grave and comes to life during summer.

Hikers, tourists and descendants of former families flock here to admire the Greek-Byzantine ruins.

Aieta

Founded on the ashes of a Greek settlement, the village lies close to the cozy beaches of Maratea and Praia a Mare.

It's tiny but elegant. Dwellings with red tiled roofs are clustered at the feet of a majestic fortress with panoramic loggia.

Renaissance palazzos and lavish stone portals offer a glimpse of Tuscany in Calabria.

Eagles and wolves inhabit the woods. Trekking routes lead to the nearby villages of Papasidero, Laino Borgo and Laino castello.

Bova

Legends says an Armenian queen built this village on a hill where cows grazed -- hence the name which nods to the term "cattle" in Italian (bue).

Known as the region's "natural balcony" for the mesmerizing coastline scenery, it's located right on the tip of Italy's boot close to Sicily, in the heart of "Greek Calabria" which flourished with settlers from ancient Greece.

Noble stone mansions with elaborate portals are situated below the cliffhanging ruins of a Norman castle.

Strolling through the narrow alleys you can still hear the clacking of old looms. Weaving tradition dates back millennia, and the unique fibre broom plant is still picked on the peaks of the nearby Aspromonte mountains.

Fresh goat milk is on sale each day. Ethnic music festivals, a Byzantine Easter party with fruit decorations and a picturesque carnival are top events.

Caccuri

This spectacular hilltop castle, built as a lookout post against pirate raids, overlooks a maze of alleys, stone homes and tiny piazzas with private entrances.

Across centuries powerful feudal families ruled over the village, killing and poisoning each other.

Olive groves dot the hills and produce a premium extra virgin olive oil. Part of the fortress, featuring high walls and a loggia tower hiding inside a cistern, has been turned into an elegant designer resort.

Albidona

Set at an altitude of 850 meters but with territory stretching all the way to the sea, this community enjoys an enclosed pinewood and a cozy beach featuring a Saracen tower.

It's close to the border with Basilicata and Puglia, making it an ideal spot for touring all three regions and getting the most from the Pollino national park and the warm sunny coast.

With a 10-minute car ride locals can hop downhill for a swim or uphill for a refreshing yoga or trekking session.

Legend says it was founded by a blind seer fleeing from burning Troy. Ruins of a crumbling castle overlook cherry, almonds, and wild apple orchards. The terrain is made of the same stuff as that of the Ionian Sea in Greece.

Sant'Agata del Bianco

A rural vibe survives in this collection of humble peasant dwellings where thick yellowish stone walls and painted green doors whisk tourists back into the past.

The entire village and its rough cobble alleys have been neatly restyled. The local "Palmenti Route" trail takes in a network of old wells cut into the rocky ground and once used to make wine.

Keep an eye on the region's website for news of the project.

Follow us on Instagram, @calabria_mediterranea

[bbcbreakingnews]

Has Brooklyn Beckham found a venue at the five-star Borgo Egnazia in Italy for his wedding? 

When David and Victoria Beckham got married at an Irish castle in 1999, they perched on matching golden thrones during a lavish £500,000 ceremony.

Now their son Brooklyn could be set for an even more extravagant affair when he ties the knot with model Nicola Peltz.

His mother, Posh Spice Victoria, took the couple around a romantic Italian palazzo last week, and was overheard telling the bride-to be: ‘It’s your day, we want to make it special… so whatever you want.’

Brooklyn could be set for an even more extravagant affair when he ties the knot with model Nicola Peltz

Posh Spice Victoria, took the couple around a romantic Italian palazzo last week

But special comes at a price: weddings at the five-star Borgo Egnazia in Puglia, on the Adriatic coast, can cost as much as £3 million.

Brooklyn’s three siblings, Romeo, Cruz and Harper, also took the tour of the carefully landscaped grounds, which are modelled on a traditional Italian village.

The luxury hideaway is where Madonna spends her summers, famously celebrating her 59th birthday there in 2017, and it was also the venue for the wedding of Justin Timberlake and Hollywood actress Jessica Biel in 2012.

It is understood that Brooklyn, 21, first fell for the charms of Borgo Egnazia when he visited last summer. 

The Beckhams stopped at the £135 million resort during a holiday to Italy and France.

They enjoyed a meal at its Michelin-starred, £180-a-head Due Camini restaurant before heading to the South of France to join Brooklyn’s godfather Sir Elton John on his yacht.

The Beckhams stopped at the £135 million resort during a holiday to Italy and France

Weddings at the five-star Borgo Egnazia in Puglia, on the Adriatic coast, can cost as much as £3 million

The hotel, which has been described as the most beautiful in southern Europe, boasts two private beaches and a spa which is listed in the top ten in the world. 

It is big enough to sleep more than 400 people, with 63 rooms in the castle-like main building, 92 on the grounds and 28 villas. Rooms start at £545 a night.

Friends say the former Spice Girl is ‘extremely excited’ that her son is marrying Miss Peltz, whose family are thought to be worth £1.3 billion – almost three times the estimated £370 million Beckham fortune. 

One said: ‘Victoria fell in love with Nicola immediately. She is absolutely delighted that her son has landed himself a partner from such a wholesome, rich American family.

‘She hasn’t always approved of Brooklyn’s girlfriends, but Nicola is a dream come true for her. Victoria made sure she became part of the Beckham family very quickly indeed.’

Miss Peltz’s father is Donald Trump-supporting US fund manager Nelson Peltz, 78, who has ten children and lives in a 27-bedroom mansion in New York state, with Nicola’s mother, former model Claudia Heffner Peltz, his third wife.

Last week, Brooklyn revealed in a gushing Instagram post that he had proposed to his girlfriend of eight months, writing: ‘Two weeks ago I asked my soulmate to marry me and she said yes. 

‘I am the luckiest man in the world. I promise to be the best husband and best daddy one day. I love you baby.’

He also posted a photograph of him embracing his fiancee, who was wearing a dress designed by his mother and showing off her gold ring, thought to have cost £160,000.

She replied: ‘I’m so lucky to call you mine.’

The post Has Brooklyn Beckham found a venue at the five-star Borgo Egnazia in Italy for his wedding?  appeared first on BBC BREAKING NEWS.

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[kansascityhappenings]

Buying a dream house in Italy for $1 just got even easier

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What’s stopping you buying one of those homes that Italy keeps selling for less than the price of an espresso?

Maybe it’s the fear of buying something sight-unseen, or anxiety over bureaucratic red tape and labyrinthine regulations?

Well, you might just have run out of excuses.

Two Italian destinations, hoping to revive declining communities by luring new residents with homes priced at a little over a dollar, have launched websites that promise to match buyers with their dream property, relatively fuss-free.

So if you spot a photo of a house you like online, you can apply for one even before jumping on a plane.

“I’ve created a special task force of young volunteers who assist buyers, liaising with convenient construction firms for the restyle,” says Paolo Caruso, mayor of Zungoli, one of the villages offering bargain-rate houses.

“Transparency is key but people must really come see for themselves the beauty of the place, taste the great food and breathe the fresh healthy air.”

Zungoli is a tiny rural village, shaped like a snail, in the Campania region near Naples and the Amalfi Coast.

Cheese grottoes

Set atop a sandstone hill, it���s a maze of caves and zig-zag, circular alleys connected by huge, uneven grass-covered cobblestone steps that wind up to a stunning fortress.

Named one of Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages in 2015 in a national award, it straddles the Apennine Mountains, equidistant from the Adriatic and Tyrrhenian coasts.

Medieval bridges lead to a cluster of blue, pink, green and yellow pastel-colored farm dwellings and dome-shaped aristocratic mansions where just 1,000 people live. Bright flowers adorn street corners and grapevines grow over arches and old olive mills.

Inside multi-layered Byzantine caves once used as storage rooms during the Crusades, teardrop-shaped Caciocavallo cheeses are now hung to season.

Sounds good? Well here’s how you get a slice of the action… and maybe some of that cheese.

Step uno: Head to Zungoli’s official website — www.comunezungoli.it. On the left column, there’s a link titled “Case in vendita a €1.”

You might need Google Translate to help you out at this point, or some rudimentary knowledge of Italian (which would be no bad thing anyway if you’re thinking of living there).

Step due: Click on the link and you’ll see dozens of 50- to 100-square-meter dwellings listed. They’re all in need of some TLC, so you’ll need some imagination.

Step tre: Download the application form for the property you like. At this point you commit to renovating one within three years and must explain the type of project — be it a private house, B&B or artisan shop.

Step quattro: Attach a copy of your ID and forward everything to the mayor’s office by email or mail.

Step cinque: If your plan is approved, Caruso will send you a contract and then it’s up to you to fly over to Italy and close the deal.

The catch: As with all these cheap home deals, buyers must pay a €2,000 security deposit and commit to refurbishing the property.

Work needs to start within a few months. Once it’s complete and the purchase deed is made, the deposit is refunded.

There are tax deductions of up to 85% for any restyling works.

Rustic attractions

Zungoli has a unique setting and a lot to offer — guided trekking and cycling tours regularly explore the wild and pristine landscape.

Once plagued by bandits and criss-crossed by pilgrimage routes and shepherd trails, known as tratturi, the terrain is dotted with Roman coins often filled with ancient coins.

For 6,000 years, nomadic shepherds led their herds across its pastures into neighboring Puglia, a tradition now celebrated in festivals and in rustic local dishes like chiapparelle e bietole — ravioli stuffed with chard.

But it’s not stuck in the past.

“We want to make things easy for new buyers”, says Caruso. “My town has upgraded infrastructure, public LED lights and great Wi-Fi. Piazzas and pavements have just been revamped. Life quality is important.”

Honey paradise

If even that process sounds too complicated, the larger Italian town of Mussomeli, in Sicily, has made it even easier, creating a new multilingual real estate agency to handle its €1 houses deals.

Two new towns in Italy are offering homes for sale at bargain rates. (Photo courtesy Salvatore Catalano/Comune Mussolemi)

Photos of dwellings can be checked via the website www.case1euro.it, which features an interactive map that has detailed information on each building — and it’s all in English.

Many of the abandoned stone farm dwellings are in good shape and need only minimal work.

“Original owners calls us each day to dispose of their old houses,” says heritage councillor Toti Nigrelli. “There are 100 on sale now and potentially another 400 are suitable.

“This project is my life mission but had I dealt with it on my own, I would have gone nuts.”

Honeysuckle and eucalyptus are found across this sweet patch of land. Mussomeli’s name stems from the latin Mons Melis, aka the “Hill of Honey,” and local delicacies include honey-coated guastedde buns and cuddureddi fried milk-soaked doughnuts.

‘Sea of clouds’

The fertile green farmland is dotted with old sulfur mines, sanctuaries, Roman necropolises and traces of primitive settlements.

The town, rising on a 700-meter high hill, has views of the Etna volcano and the Valley of Temples. A local weather phenomenon called the “Sea of Clouds” can be seen from the top.

“Looking down you see the valley covered in a dense blanket of clouds as if the town were suspended mid-air. We want customers to experience all this,” says Nigrelli.

The historic center is divided into districts all of which, he swears, have different climatic features depending on which side of the hill you stand.

Sounds like the ideal place?

Step uno: Email the agency with a list of houses you like and download the documentation, following the instructions. It’s all pretty straightforward.

Step due: You still need to fly over to see exactly what you’re getting, especially since the purchase cannot be done by email or telephone. So you need to fix an appointment and a tour of the houses.

Step tre: The local agents will arrange a meeting with the notary and draw up an agreement under which you must commit to refurbishment within three years or forfeit a €5,000 security deposit.

Interested buyers will be given a guided tour of the town, visiting top sites and tasting the local cuisine. The agency’s staff will assist every step of the way.

The catch: “There’s a €400 fee for such tailored services to be paid only at the end if a €1 house is actually purchased,” says Nigrelli.

Mystical vibe

Anyone taking the private tour will see Mussomeli’s panoramic piazzas, lavish gold-colored Baroque buildings and winding alleys leading to one of Italy’s most breathtaking fortresses, dubbed the Enchanted Castle.

Clinging like a spider on a pointed rock with steep, twisting staircases, the castle is said to conceal Saracen treasure and is haunted by the ghost of a murdered soldier.

It’s not the only eerie presence.

The phantoms of three girls, who were locked up by their jealous and tyrannical father and starved to death, have been heard crying at night. According to storytellers, they were found dead having chewed their own shoes for sustenance.

Actors dressed in medieval clothes often animate the castle while religious parades create a mystical vibe.

One festival, Batticchié, sees folks re-enact Sicilian daily life from the 1940s while enjoying local dishes such as ‘mbriulate — a bread bun stuffed with olives, onions and pork.

Delicious. And not just the food.

from FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports https://fox4kc.com/2019/04/11/buying-a-dream-house-in-italy-for-1-just-got-even-easier/

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[tripstations]

The 5op 5 Fall destinations… to be transformed

By Christopher Hill on Sep 04, 2019 in Africa, Asia, Australia, Bhutan, Europe, India, Italy, Morocco, Nepal, Oceania, Regions, Western Europe

Mid-September to mid-December can be tricky to get right in terms of travel destinations, mostly due to unsettled weather, rains and even hurricanes.

But help is at hand!

There are parts of the world where these months are ideal: the rainy season has finished and resplendent in greenery in India and Bhutan, the scorching heat has passed in Morocco, the crowds have dropped off in Italy, and Australia, well, it is hard to pick a bad month for Australia, but if I had to, July-August can be pretty cool and wet, at least in the southern states.

What follows is my Top 5 recommendations for travel in the Fall, where you and your family can enjoy luxury accommodation, incredible sights, and leave a legacy by making a difference, creating treasured memories in a diverse array, from wildlife conservation to teaching to building to caring for the homeless.

1. Australia

In early Fall (September and early October) the whole of Australia is up for grabs; beyond that and you risk heavy tropical rains in the far north, such as in Kakadu or the Kimberleys.

I recommend focusing on Sydney, Uluru, the Great Barrier Reef for first timers, but for those with more time or repeat visitors, South Australia has so much to offer, from the extraordinary Wilpena Pound to Australia’s largest lake (Lake Eyre) to “Australia’s Galapagos” (Kangaroo Island) and of course the Barossa and Clare Valleys for wine lovers.

Superb accommodation recommendations in South Australia are: Southern Ocean Lodge, Arkaba Conservancy, and The Louise.

Make your trip to Australia meaningful by spending a few days conserving wildlife: help count kangaroos and wallabies, protect rivers from erosion and assist university researchers in the Blue Mountains. Stay at the fabulous eco-luxury One & Only Wolgan Valley – I suggest going at least one way by helicopter to truly appreciate the stunning vistas.

2. Morocco

Morocco is arguably at its best from September to November, as the temperature is pleasant everywhere, and snow hasn’t yet fallen in the Atlas Mountains, meaning you can experience some epic hikes. Blend this with a night or two glamping in the Sahara Desert, exploring the souks of Marrakech and Fes, and even some beach time. Dar Ahlam is a little known paradise, and Sir Richard Branson’s Kasbah Tamadot is spectacular in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains.

Of course to really create treasured memories and make an impact, I recommend rolling up your sleeves, and in Morocco you can help renovate the home of a low-income family in Marrakech. By doing so, you get to interact meaningfully with the local people, hear their stories and gain insights into their lives (over copious cups of mint tea), all of which will leave a profound impression and your kids will realize how fortunate they are, and return home changed.

3. India

India is another country that shines from November to December, and much of the country is ideal at this time (except really for hiking in the Himalayas/Ladakh). First timers will love the classic Delhi-Agra-Jaipur (though I have suggestions for making even this extra special, for instance with a walking tour led by a former street-kid, or a cooking class in an Indian home), and wildlife seekers will be enthralled by the sight of a Royal Bengal Tiger in one of the National Parks such as Bandhavgarh.

The beaches of Goa round out any itinerary well, or you can explore magical Rajasthan in more depth, or cruise Kerala’s backwaters in a luxury converted rice barge.

You are spoilt for choice in the range of options for making a difference as well, from teaching in an inspiring school in a Delhi slum, to renovating the school, to conserving elephants or bears, to installing an eco-friendly stove for a family. Choosing any of these will hugely enrich your trip – you will create treasured memories, and be the change.

4. Italy

As you know, Italy is an easy destination to get to for UK and even US readers, and the Fall is a wonderful time to be there, as the weather is still good, but the hordes of visitors is reduced – helped even more by me arranging for you to have a private viewing of such treasures as the Sistine Chapel or a wing of the Uffizi Gallery.

Here you can indulge in a cooking class with a Michelin chef or get your adrenalin fix touring the Ferrari factory and even driving one of their supercars on a track. Your kids can train to be gladiators in Rome, and cycling in lesser-known Puglia is a fantastic family activity.

And you can bond closer with your kids whilst helping at a kitchen serving nutritious, beautiful meals to the homeless – you will see barriers being broken and experience engagement as you interact with dignity and respect.

5. Bhutan and Nepal

Head to the Himalayas just before the snowfall makes it too cold: both Nepal and Bhutan are fascinating and rewarding, with some distinct differences:

Nepal is higher, and in my opinion offers better trekking with more jaw dropping scenery (and Mt Everest of course)

Bhutan has arguably preserved its culture better, with the vast majority of people wearing the traditional attire in daily life

Nepal has better wildlife viewing, especially if you are looking for tiger, elephants or rhino, though Bhutan does have the Takin and Blacked Neck Crane

Bhutan does luxury better – Aman, Como and Taj have been there for years, and if that weren’t enough, Six Senses have opened five incredible lodges this year.

The cuisine is better in Nepal, though in the luxury lodges in Bhutan you will have no issues.

In terms of giving back, in Nepal you can really make a big impact by helping renovate homes damaged by earthquake in a remote part of Nepal (basic tents are the accommodation on offer), and in Bhutan you can renovate the home of a low-income family (within driving distance of one of the luxury lodges).

Not sure which one to choose? Do one this year and another next Fall!

Christopher Hill is Founder and CEO at Hands Up Holidays. Hands Up Holiadays is an award-winning travel company specialising in tailor-made luxury family trips that combine sightseeing with hands-on service projects.

If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.

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