Italian Interlude

Barcelona

The enchanting city of Barcelona is a visual delight, and has an
atmosphere that combines elegance and sophistication with
provincial charm. In exploring its streets you'll discover medieval
romance in its Gothic quarter and the awe-inspiring delights of the
fantastic and sometimes outrageous Art Nouveau architecture of
Gaudi and his contemporaries.

The funicular up to Tibidabo, or the cable car up Montjuic, both
offer breathtaking views over this attractive city. Its skyline is
perhaps most famous for Antoni Gaudi's masterwork, the still
incomplete church of the Sagrada Familia, as well as the city's
huge Gothic cathedral. The artistic legacy of Barcelona is one of
the city's most appealing attributes, with museums containing
extensive collections of the works of Miro and Picasso. Barcelona
is also a shopper's paradise, with the city's flair for style
reflected in its numerous boutiques and markets, open late into the
evenings. As the sun sets, and the city's many bars and restaurants
open, the night truly comes alive. Dinner is served at any time
between nine o'clock and midnight, and the festivities around the
bars and nightclubs carry on well into the early hours of the
morning.

Barcelona is the commercial centre of the popular holiday region
known as the Costa Brava, the northernmost Mediterranean seafront
in Spain, as well as the Costa Dorada to the south. The coast is
dotted with popular resort towns, many retaining their age-old
charm, which can be easily reached from the city.

Palma de Mallorca

Palma capital of the autonomous region of the Balearic Islands is a lively cosmopolitan city in true Spanish tradition its centre forming a bustling maze of shopping centres narrow lanes and restored buildings surrounded by ruined ancient city walls and modern boulevards. Like mainland Spain Mallorca was under Moorish control between the ninth and 13th centuries until the re-conquest by Jaume I of Aragon. The Moorish heritage is still evident as are the remnants of Palma's golden years when it rose to wealth and prominence in the 15th century as the main port of call between Europe and Africa. Later the city set on the beautiful bay Bahia de Palma became the favoured royal retreat for Fernando and Isabel which helped it to become the popular Spanish beach holiday haunt and favourite weekend city break destination of the rich and famous. Despite the invasion of foreign tourists Palma has kept its local flavour particularly in its old quarter which is still lined by cafés and tapas bars. Often the native dialect of Mallorquin is the only language heard in the backstreets a fine Palma de Mallorca trait.Palma de Mallorca boasts a huge variety of restaurants and has plenty to offer tourists. The biggest concentration of restaurants is in the centre of town at El Terreno and around the Paseo Maritimo. For some of Spain's best Basque food head to Koldo Royo. Palma de Mallorca's key activities centre around its nightlife and the town is well known for its foam parties discos bars and nightclubs. In fact some of Spain's biggest nightclubs are in Palma de Mallorca and the city is a great destination for those seeking a party. It is also a good shopping destination and shoppers will particularly enjoy exploring the streets of the old town.Of course the city also has some interesting sightseeing attractions including the beautiful La Seo Cathedral the fortress of Palau de l'Almudaina the unusual Castell de Bellver and some good museums. Unfortunately the city doesn't have good beaches but there are many nearby. Popular excursion destinations include the Aqualand theme park a short drive away from the city which is great fun for the whole family. There are several excellent golf courses around town as well as good hiking trails in the rocky Majorcan hills.

Mahón, Menorca

Despite its popularity as a beach holiday paradise,
the Balearic Island of Minorca remains one of the loveliest, most
unspoilt islands in the Mediterranean. The local population support
the control of resort development and the woodlands and fields of
its hilly rural interior remain largely untouched by the tourism
trade.

This is the result of a thriving local industry that
is less dependent on tourism for its survival than many of the
other islands are. Minorca is therefore a great option for
travellers wanting a more authentic Spanish beach resort holiday.
Minorca is only nine miles (15km) wide and about 32 miles (52km)
long, and boasts stretches of varied beaches, from silver-sanded,
gently curving bays to rugged, rocky inlets.

Aside from beaches and resorts, the island also has
plenty of interest for history buffs and culture connoisseurs, with
several attractions to visit, including a world famous pipe organ
and several mysterious, prehistoric archaeological sites related to
the second millennium BC Talayot culture. The more recent history
of the island is a saga of British, French, and Spanish attempts at
control and colonisation, each of which have left their influence
on the local culture and architecture.

Small as it may be, Minorca has a reliable and safe
public transport system. Buses run from the Placa de s'Esplanada in
Mahon regularly throughout the town and between other towns such as
Fornells, Es Mercadal, Alaior, Ferreries, Ciutadella, and Cala en
Porter. Taxis can also be hailed from the Placa de s'Esplanada in
Mahon. Rental car agencies can be found throughout the towns and at
the airport.

Cagliari

Cagliari is a city located in the south of Sardinia, Italy. The city has a population of over 150,000 people and is the capital of Sardinia. Cagliari is a popular tourist destination for its beaches, culture, and history. The city is home to many Roman and Punic ruins, as well as a medieval castle. The climate in Cagliari is Mediterranean, with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters.

If you’re looking for a beach vacation with a bit of culture and history thrown in, Cagliari is the perfect destination. The city’s beaches are some of the best in Italy, and there’s plenty to see and do away from the sand. Be sure to visit the Roman ruins of Nora, the medieval castle of Castello, and the museum of Archaeology. And of course, no trip to Cagliari would be complete without sampling the delicious seafood on offer!

Palermo

Palermo, the capital city of Sicily in Italy, is a vibrant and diverse destination that offers a fascinating blend of history, culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. With its rich architectural heritage, bustling markets, mouthwatering street food, and stunning coastal scenery, Palermo has something to offer to every type of traveler.

One of the highlights of Palermo is its historic architecture, which reflects the city's fascinating past. The Palermo Cathedral, a masterpiece of Norman architecture, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Another iconic landmark is the Palazzo dei Normanni, a stunning palace that has served as the seat of power for various rulers over the centuries. The Cappella Palatina, located within the palace, showcases intricate Byzantine mosaics that are considered some of the finest in the world.

Exploring the city's markets is a sensory delight not to be missed. The Vucciria Market is a maze of narrow streets filled with stalls selling a variety of fresh produce, cured meats, and traditional Sicilian products. For a truly authentic experience, try the street food, such as arancini (fried rice balls) and panelle (chickpea fritters), that the vendors offer.

Art lovers will find plenty to admire in Palermo's numerous art galleries, such as the Galleria Regionale di Palazzo Abatellis, which houses a collection of Italian masterpieces, including works by Antonello da Messina and Renato Guttuso. The city is also dotted with charming churches, such as the Church of San Cataldo and the Church of Santa Maria dell'Ammiraglio, known as the Martorana, both of which showcase stunning Byzantine architecture and intricate mosaics.

For those seeking respite from the city's busy streets, Palermo offers beautiful natural landscapes. The nearby Mondello beach, with its crystal-clear waters and sandy shores, is a popular choice for locals and tourists alike. The picturesque fishing village of Cefalù, located just an hour outside of Palermo, is another great option for a day trip, with its charming old town and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.

No visit to Palermo would be complete without indulging in the local cuisine. Sicilian cuisine is known for its bold flavors and fresh ingredients, and Palermo boasts a wide variety of traditional dishes. Try the famous pasta alla Norma, a hearty pasta dish with eggplant and ricotta salata, or the iconic cannoli, a crispy pastry shell filled with sweet ricotta cream. Don't forget to wash it all down with a glass of refreshing Sicilian wine!

In terms of transportation, Palermo has a well-connected public transport system, including buses and trains. However, the city center is relatively compact and easily navigable on foot, allowing visitors to take in the sights at their own pace. Taxis and rental cars are also readily available for those who prefer more flexibility.

Overall, Palermo is a captivating destination that combines a rich history, vibrant culture, delicious food, and stunning natural landscapes. Whether you are interested in exploring ancient ruins, indulging in local cuisine, or simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere, Palermo is sure to leave a lasting impression on any traveler lucky enough to visit.

Messina

Messina is the third largest city on the island of Sicily, and the 13th largest city in Italy, with a population of more than 231,000. Home to the Museo Regionale of Messina, known for featuring two of Caravaggio's paintings, the city is also famous for having been the capital of the ancient kingdom of Sicily.

Corfu

The island of Corfu, best known of the seven Ionian islands that
lie off the northwest coast of Greece, differs markedly from the
other popular Greek islands because not only is it green and lush,
but also very developed with tourist resorts and hotels. Summertime
is busy, with charter flights arriving daily from European cities,
ferries disgorging travellers from Italy, and cruise ships
docking.

There is plenty to draw visitors to this magical island, also
known as Kerkyra. Modern Corfu Town is upbeat and cosmopolitan,
offering an exciting conglomeration of Greek, Italian, French and
British influences. The old town was laid out by the Venetians in
the 14th century and features narrow alleys lined with
multi-storied, pastel-coloured buildings with red tiled roofs,
creating a scene reminiscent of Italy. The hub of activity in the
town centre is the Liston, an arcaded row of touristy cafes and
restaurants, copied from the Rue de Rivoli in Paris.

Most tourists stay in one of the popular beach resorts like
Sidari and Roda in the north, or the party capital, Kavos, on the
southern tip of the island. Quieter resorts include Gouvia and San
Stefanos. Those wishing to escape from the melee can head for the
interior to enjoy some spectacular scenery and greenery. Corfu has
43 different kinds of orchids growing wild in the countryside, and
there are countless olive groves. There are dozens unspoilt coves
with beaches washed by the sparkling, warm Ionian Sea. It is still
possible to search out a secluded bay even in the busy season when
the package holiday resorts are awash with tourists.

Korčula

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Korčula is a beautiful island located in the Adriatic Sea, just off the coast of Croatia. Known for its stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and charming old town, Korčula is a popular destination for travelers seeking a mix of relaxation, culture, and outdoor adventures.

One of the main highlights of Korčula is its Old Town. Enclosed within medieval walls, the Old Town is a maze of narrow streets and stone buildings that have remained largely unchanged for centuries. Walking through the town feels like stepping back in time, with its cobblestone streets, traditional red-roofed houses, and decorative balconies. The highlight of the Old Town is the St. Mark's Cathedral, a stunning landmark featuring a beautiful Gothic facade and a bell tower offering panoramic views of the island.

Beyond the Old Town, Korčula offers a variety of stunning beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Whether you prefer sandy or pebble beaches, there is something for everyone here. Some of the most popular beaches include Vela Przina, Pupnatska Luka, and Bacva bay. These beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and various water activities such as snorkeling, paddleboarding, and kayaking.

For those interested in history and culture, Korčula has a rich and fascinating past. It is believed that the island was home to the famous explorer Marco Polo, and visitors can explore his alleged birthplace, which is now a museum dedicated to his life and travels. The museum provides an intriguing insight into the life of this world-renowned traveler. Additionally, the island is dotted with numerous historical sites and ruins, including old fortresses, churches, and a Marco Polo tower, all of which contribute to the island's unique atmosphere.

When it comes to food and drink, Korčula is renowned for its delicious Mediterranean cuisine and local wines. The island is famous for producing high-quality olive oil, honey, fresh seafood, and wines made from locally grown grapes, such as the popular white wine "Pošip" and red wine "Plavac Mali." Visitors can indulge in these culinary delights at numerous waterfront restaurants and taverns throughout the island.

Nature lovers will be pleased to know that Korčula offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The island's interior is covered in lush green forests, vineyards, and olive groves, making it ideal for hiking and cycling. There are several well-marked trails that lead to picturesque viewpoints and hidden coves. Additionally, boat trips and sailing excursions are also popular, allowing visitors to explore the surrounding archipelago and nearby islands.

Getting to Korčula is straightforward. The island is well connected to the mainland by regular ferry services from Split, Dubrovnik, and other coastal towns in Croatia. There is also a small airport situated on the nearby island of Brac, with connections to other major airports in Croatia.

In conclusion, Korčula is a hidden gem in Croatia, offering a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and Mediterranean charm. Whether you are seeking relaxation on beautiful beaches, exploring ancient architecture, or indulging in delicious local cuisine, Korčula has something for everyone. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes, this island is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Croatian experience.

Venice

Venice is unique, its elegant buildings and
palaces peering over an ancient maze of narrow streets and
labyrinth of canals. Tourists here wake up to the morning calls of
gondoliers before venturing out to lose themselves among the twists
and turns of this famously romantic haven.

The city rests on one of 117 islands
distributed throughout the Venetian lagoon. The aptly named Grand
Canal splits the city, running from the Santa Lucia railway station
past the famous Rialto Bridge to Piazza San Marco, home to the
cathedral of Basilica di San Marco which is adorned with endless
mosaics that sparkle at sunset.

The historic centre is divided into six
quarters: San Marco, Dorsoduro, San Polo, Santa Croce, Cannaregio
and Castello. Countless waterways wind their way through the city.
While some choose to pick their way over the more than 400 bridges,
by far the most popular way to get around is to cruise the
waterways onboard vaporetto boats or iconic gondola.

Known for its inventive cuisine, lavish
spreads of cicheti (Venetian tapas) can be found in bars around the
city while canalside bistros offer spectacular fine dining
experiences. Venice's penchant for outlandish fashion gave the
world eyeglasses, dresses without corsets and platform shoes, and
the annual carnival is renowned for the elaborate masks on
display.

Venice extends beyond its six sestieri to
the islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello. These are known for
glass and lace-making respectively, and Torcello is noted for the
magnificent Byzantine Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta resting on
its soil. Trips by boat to the islands provide a pleasant escape
from the busier historic quarters.