Italy is home to a rich and beautiful culture. The Italians are very proud of their past and are very much still “living in” today. A closer look at Rome will reveal a city bustling with modernism and fashion, yet cobblestone streets are and timeless architecture are constant reminders of a time once passed. This country is renowned for romance, food, and passion and every ounce of life within its culture will undoubtedly convince you likewise.

The cuisine is, of course, outstanding – there is simply no way to describe the divinity of the dining experience. The full aromas alone are enough to wet you appetite throughout the day. You will discover that the delicious Italian food everybody raves about is actually very simple and made from simple but classic Italian ingredients and herbs, that just blend perfectly in a balance of spice and texture. The Italians really know their food!

Let’s not forget about the world of art and fashion that nestles within the country. Milan, the capital of fashion, boasts a number of designers including Armani, Gucci and Versace. In addition to the posh designer shops, there are a myriad of affordable boutiques that allow for purchasing of Italian goods, designs, and souvenirs.

CUISINE: Come and discover Italy’s must order dishes, favorite ingredients, and an Italian wine and meal pairing guide. A few specialties described include chicken parmigiana, veal marsala, linguini with clam sauce, shrimp fra diavolo, and more seafood and regular dishes.

FASHION/SHOPPING: Ask your tour director about the Italian specialty products and designers (Armani, Prada, Gucci, Versace, Valentino), as well as a location of shopping centers, major stores, and markets.

LANGUAGE: Discover Italian phrases that will help you feel more at home during your travels and will enhance your Italian experience as you can communicate with locals. Do you research early!

ARHITECTURE/DECORATIVE ARTS: A brief history of the styles of architecture that you will see on your trip, as well as some famous works of art that can be found throughout Italy includes a directory of artwork by Donotello, Raphael, Da Vinci, Michelangelo Caravaggio, and many more. In addition, Italy is home to the most famous building structures including the Sistine Chapel, the Coliseum, and Basilica San Marco.

ROMANCE: Come see why Italy is popularly known as a romantic destination; explore the history of romance in Italy through the your experiences in the Venetian canals, Portofino on the Italian Riviera, Lake Como, the Blue Grotto, and many more.  

ENTERTAINMENT: Art, music, theater; take your pick from the many spectacular exhibitions and performances set throughout Italy. Our suggestions range from classics such as Italian opera to exciting festivals, such as the Venetian Carnival.

Browse our selection Italy tours and vacation packages.

Italy’s Fascinating Culture is a post from: Atlas Cruises and Tours Travel Blog | Globus Tours | Italy Tours | Trafalgar Tours

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Today’s adventure took us to the walled city of San Gimignano which sits majestically atop a hill, seemingly protecting the beautiful Tuscan country side. This strategic location was very coveted by conquering armies over the centuries, so many battles were fought for control. San Gimignano is noted mainly for its medieval towers.  Only 14 towers remain of the original seventy, but the 13th century structures are in very good shape and house some original frescos that have withstood the test of time rather well.

There are roughly only 700 full-time residents, but the city abounds with small restaurants and gift shops.  One of these is a gelato shop that won ‘best in taste’ two years running and whose owner is now a judge in this important competition.  Walk through the preserved town square, the Piazza della Cisterna and visit the Palazzo del Popolo, a 13th century town hall.

It is a considerable long drive from Rome or Florence, so we suggest spending the night if you have the time, or one full day,  but don’t miss this Tuscan jewel.

San Gimignano…A Tuscan Jewel is a post from: Atlas Cruises and Tours Travel Blog | Globus Tours | Italy Tours | Trafalgar Tours

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Where to start?  So much history, culture, Vatican City, religious treasures and yes, lots of mopeds, compact cars and LOTS of people, of course. But look beyond the people and the scooters and allow yourself to be awed as you travel back in time whe the Roman Forum was the center of governmental and social activit.  Across stands the Colosseum where brave gladiators fought for their lives and lions terrorized early Christians.

Almost everywhere you look, your eyes can feast on beautiful sculptures, Bernini fountains — don’t miss Trevi fountain and throwing the coins over your shoulder so you’ll be guaranteed a return trip since you couldn’t see it all in 2 busy weeks.

And how about the independent country of the Vatican City and St Peter’s, designed by Michelangelo— but let’s stop for some espresso or a gelato— then the Sistine Chapel with all it’s treasures and papal history.

So much to see and experience!  Now it’s time to find a cozy restaurant, off the beaten path, you know, the one where the locals go and you hear no English. This should be part of the experience. Get some rest and get ready for another busy day tomorrow !

Eternal Rome is a post from: Atlas Cruises and Tours Travel Blog | Globus Tours | Italy Tours | Trafalgar Tours

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When it comes to seeing Europe, there’s no better way to go than on a pre-planned vacation. Marvel at Rome’s incomparable Sistine Chapel or admire artistic masterpieces in Paris’ Louvre Museum. Cruise the canals of Venice—or the canals of Amsterdam…and that’s just the start!

Where ever you plan to travel in Europe, the Globus family of brands can take you there. Choose from Globus tours, Monograms independent travel packages or Avalon river cruises through Europe.

Europe Vacations

Italy Vacations
Step back in time and explore a country rich with historical treasures. From magnificent churches and marble monuments to medieval piazzas with awe-inspiring fountains, you’ll feel an ambiance reminiscent of times past while in Italy.
Italy Tours

England, Scotland & Ireland Vacations
For a travel experience befitting royalty, there’s truly nothing better than a vacation to Britain & Ireland. Whether you’re off checking out a a 2,000-year-old castle or riding through the city streets on a double-decker bus, you’ll be left with a lifetime of incredible memories.
England, Scotland & Ireland Vacations

France Vacations
Ascend to the second floor of the Eiffel Tower and enjoy spectacular views of Paris or visit the famous Promenade des Anglais in Nice. France is filled with the world’s most eclectic collection of artwork, mouthwatering bakers’ delights, and abundantly colorful flower and fruit markets.
France Tours

Germany, Austria & Switzerland Vacations
Enjoy the essence of Central Europe as you experience Germany, Austria & Switzerland. Enjoy beautiful architecture, interesting museums, a tasty beer garden and, of course, the opera and classical music concerts. 
Central Europe Tours

Globus Tours: Amazing Travel Packages to Europe is a post from: Atlas Cruises and Tours Travel Blog | Globus Tours | Italy Tours | Trafalgar Tours

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Carved from rugged limestone 17 miles off the coast of Naples, Italy, the Isle of Capri looks out over the sparkling blue Tyrrhenian Sea.  Legendary for its enchanting beauty, beaches, mysterious rocks and caves and enduring elegance, Capri is barely two miles wide and four miles long, and has just two towns, Capri and Anacapri.

At the heart of Capri town, and arguably the very hear of the island, is Piazza Umberto I, also known as “La Piazzetta.: Here locals and visitors cluster around small tables to gossip and people-watch.  The views of Monte Solaro are stunning, the bars are world-famous and the local limoncello is not to be missed.  Capri is a walking town, and what better way to enjoy the offerings of its charming and elegant boutiques filled with perfumes, wines, ceramics, jewelry and distinctive Capri sandals.

The majestic Mediterranean beauty of Anacapri has attracted emperors, royalty and artists for centuries.  Graham Greene and Claude Debussy both found inspiration here among the lemon and olive trees, the grapevines and the dazzling bougainvillea.  Anacapri’s shop lined streets, the pace is relaxed. 

From scenic Marina Piccola, the south harbor, explore the rocky beach and get a close look at the faraglion – three huge rock formations rising steeply from the sea along the shore.  Capri is famous for its caves, and none more deservedly than the Blue Grotto.  Visitors float into the cave in small boats to view the enormous vaulted space and wondrous light.

Italy’s gem of an island, Capri continues to entice and allure visitors to this day.

Popular vacations that include Capri:  Italian Scene | Italy Bellisimo | Rome and Sorrento | A Week in Rome, Capri and the Amalfi Coast |  Rome, Sorrento & Capri | All Italy tours

Italy’s Enchanted Island is a post from: Atlas Cruises and Tours Travel Blog | Globus Tours | Italy Tours | Trafalgar Tours

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If you’ve always wanted to float down the canals of Venice, admire the original statue of David by Michelangelo in Florence, and visit St. Peter’s in Rome, now is the time. Globus tours has created a selection of delightful itineraries to magnificent Italy. From the most important must-see sights, like the Sistine Chapel, the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, St. Mark’s Basilica, and the Doges’ Palace with the Bridge of Sighs, to the smallest details like the use of headphones on included sightseeing in Rome, Florence, Venice, and Pompeii, Globus covers Italy like no one else.

Globus tours has been the leader in escorted tours & travel packages for more than 80 years & we will make your dream vacation possible. Visit our specialty travel site for more Italy tours, cruises and vacations.

Let Globus Tours Take You on An Unforgettable Journey Through Italy is a post from: Atlas Cruises and Tours Travel Blog | Globus Tours | Italy Tours | Trafalgar Tours

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Do you have amazing pictures of Italy you would like to share?

Fodor’s has partnered with Princess Cruises for the “Show us Your Italy Photo Contest.”

First-time visitors to Italy come in search of la dolce vita (the good life) and they quickly learn just how easy it is to escape completely. A romantic gondola ride in Venice. A walk in Caeser’s footsteps in ancient Rome. A meal of fresh tortellini in Bologna. There are thousands of discoveries to be made and places to explore, which provide travelers with plenty of reasons to visit again and again. Share the moments and photos that made your trip to Italy special for a chance to have your photograph featured in Fodor’s Italy and receive a suite of Fodor’s latest full-color guides (ARV = $130).

Runner-up winners will have their photographs featured in a slideshow on Fodors.com and will win two (2) Fodor’s guides of their choice (ARV = $45). In addition, if any photographs are selected to be included in a future Fodor’s guide, those entrants will also receive a complimentary copy of the guide in which their photo appears.

Enter today and tell friends and family who have traveled to Italy to enter as well. The “Show Us Your Italy” contest closes November 26, 2009.

Looking to travel to Italy in 2010, visit our Italy website for an amazing selection of Italy tours, Italy cruises and Italy rail packages.

Show Us Your Italy Photo Contest is a post from: Atlas Cruises and Tours Travel Blog | Globus Tours | Italy Tours | Trafalgar Tours

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TRIP TO ITALY: 1/08/09 – 1/21/09
Insight Vacations:  Easy Pace Italy

My experience in Italy was well worth ever penny it cost me. From the travel agency: Atlas Travel and our agent Cheryl Kennedy, she was so patient with me and answered every question that concerned me. I would definitely use Cheryl again as our travel agent and I can speak for my son Michael and my daughter Jill as well who traveled with me to Italy.

Our tour director: Francis Touscheck’s knowledge of the history of Italy was amazing. Every detail of every city and village that we traveled to was even more interesting because of Francis’ expertise. Not only was he a great tour guide, but also a very nice, friendly man. He was very funny at times and serious when he had to be. He went out of his way to take us to places that were not on the tour. If we had time, he would have our driver take us to other sites and let us get out of the bus to have a “Kodak moment.” He did that in every city that we were in. The unexpected was always a nice surprise.

When we were on our own, Francis always took the time to help and guide us in the right direction, so we wouldn’t get lost; although, he often did say we should get lost and take in as many sites as we could on our own. He left all of us his mobile phone number so we could find him at any time. As we departed Roma at 6:30am, Francis bought breakfast for me and my son and daughter and two other people from our tour as we sadly headed home. Those were the little perks that Francis did for us.

Thank you sooooooo much Francis. As I remember our trip to Italy, I will remember you, Francis made it so much more than I could have ever expected. I¹m ready to go back, because I left my heart in Italy. “Grazie

Pino, our bus driver was much more than a bus driver, He was such a caring and helpful man. He always helped us out of the bus; God knows I needed some help now and then.

Pino was able to maneuver his bus in the smallest spaces and often-times we gave him applause…Pino, you were the “greatest,” your expertise in driving through the countryside through rain and fog never made me nervous. I trusted you 100%. “Grazie”

I will never forget either of you, hopefully, one day, we will meet again.

Contributed by:  J. Abatemarco

Insight vacations offers premier escorted vacations in Europe and North America.  Their Easy Pace vacations are quite popular as they offer longer stays in all the major cities. Click here for more information on Insight trips.

Italy Tour Review is a post from: Atlas Cruises and Tours Travel Blog | Globus Tours | Italy Tours | Trafalgar Tours

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Did anyone catch the latest episode of Giada’s travels? Giada’s Italian Holiday, a 1 hour special on the Food Network, visited the Italian cities of Venice, Parma a short stop in Perugia and ended in Rome. From glass blowing in Murano, making Parmesan cheese in Parma to sightseeing and romance in Rome, the show just gives a brief highlight of all that these cities have to offer.

We offer a great selection of tours that visit Venice and Rome, including train travel for those weary of a bus tour, but not many tours visit Parma. Parma is a beautiful Italian city known for its monuments, castles, opera and gastronomy.  Barilla pasta factory opened in Pama in 1877. The region is also well known for it’s prosciutto and parmigiano reggiano.

Globus’ Discover Italy package is a 17 day covers Northern and Southern Italy with 3 nights in the Parma region. The 10 day Buon Taste and Flavours features wine tasting, cooking classes and a full day in Parma, including a visit to the factory Giada visited, where the world famous Parmigiano Reggiano is produced. Also overnight in Perugina and enjoy a cooking lesson and chocolate tasting.

You can also stay in Venice or Florence and take a drive for the day, or we can set up a custom itinerary with private car and driver. The distance to Parma from Venice is about 104 miles. The distance between Parma and Florence is 84 miles.

Giada’s Italian Holiday Visiting Venice, Parma and Rome is a post from: Atlas Cruises and Tours Travel Blog | Globus Tours | Italy Tours | Trafalgar Tours

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Winter in Venice shines with a different glow – a pale, almost lemon-hued sun pushes through the mist that rises from the lagoon. And in those heady days before Lent descends, the streets pulse with a cadenced rhythm that rises and falls with the light: It is Carnevale with its grand gala evening costume balls in ancient palazzos and casual piazza afternoon soirees with hand-held masks. At once bright and chatty, shrouded and whispered. Are you ready to experience the magic? Choose this extraordinary escape – Venice Carnevale – a fivenight homage to a millennium-old celebration. The city’s Grand Canal and those who wander its alleyways and bridges are transformed into characters in one of life’s great plays.

A BRIEF HISTORY OF VENICE CARNEVALE
Since 1162 Farewell, meat! From the Latin, comes today’s Carnevale. All meat, butter, and eggs had to be consumed before the liturgical season of Lent began, and so became a superb excuse for a religious celebration – one that harked back to pagan festivities. Venice Carnevale first commemorated a military victory on Shrove Tuesday, but in 1228 the first “masks” appeared, and a new celebration was born. The 18th century – and its excesses – allowed Carnevale to blossom. A decline in the 1900s was reversed in the latter part of the century, and this historic tradition was revived in earnest. Within a few years the image of the masked reveler – unique to Venice Carnevale – had become an icon worldwide.

Want to Experience a Luxury package to the 2009 Carnivale? It will only cost a mere $6,999 for a small group 6 day package that includes deluxe hotel accomodations, sightseeing & attendance to costume balls including 5 day costume rentals.

Venice Carnevale is a post from: Atlas Cruises and Tours Travel Blog | Globus Tours | Italy Tours | Trafalgar Tours

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