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Italian Business Etiquette – The Essentials

October 28, 2014

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Italian Business Etiquette – The Essentials

The first time I had to fly to Italy on business I had completely lost track of time (enjoying the sites) and ended up being over 30 minutes late! Being an American I was so worried, that my business deal wasn’t going to go through or all the work we started on would have to start over. Fortunately, when I arrived, no one seemed overly alarmed! I was certainly taken by surprise.

Every country has its own set of customs and etiquette that may leave visitors taken aback. If you are traveling to Italy on business, you will need to be sure you’re not feeling over-sensitive. Don’t take everything too personally, and you should be fine. I know from personal recommendations that this language software was insanely helpful for friends of mine when they needed to learn Italian.

There are still things to watch out for, to make sure you make the best professional impression. Here is a list of Italian business etiquettes that can certainly come in handy when having a business meeting.

Doing Business – Italian Etiquette

Courtesy and good manners are much prized in Italy. Be polite and formal when introducing yourself and shaking hands is considered courteous.

Your conduct when doing business in Italy should be polished. Being considerate will win you points even if you are not familiar with all the behaviors of their business people.

When you meet and depart, shake hands. This is as applicable for individuals as it is for groups. If you have built a business relationship with an Italian, don’t be shocked if you are embraced when met. This is a good sign, and means that your relationship is at a level that is more intimate.

Italians do not leave much personal space between people when they interact. They are tactile, so do not insult them by keeping your distance or moving away. This will not make a good impression on your Italian hosts.

If you happen to know some Italian, even a little bit, before a relationship is fully established, use the polite ‘lei’ form. Then once the relationship has been built, feel free use the more informal ‘tu’ form.

Addressing people by there titles is well regarded in Italy. When addressing people, use ‘Signor’ (m) or ‘Signora’ (f) followed by their surname. ‘Dottore’ (m) or ‘Dottoressa’ (f) is used for those who have graduated.

Italian Business Etiquette – Hospitality

Hospitality is important in the business culture of Italy. Expect to be invited to lunch or dinner when you do business there. Small and exclusive groups are usually present. Each person attending has an interest in the reason for your visit. If you want to host a business meal, check with the most senior Italian contact to find out who should be invited.

Dining has its protocol when you are in Italy. However, you can worry so much about it that you don’t have a chance to enjoy the meal. Honored guests sit near the center of the table, and the host will always pay. You should not answer cell phone calls while you are eating with business associates.

Dress to Impress in Italy

Do the names Prada, Gucci and Versace sound familiar to you? It should come as no surprise that one dresses properly in Italy for business meetings and meals. Make an impression with your clothing, and be sure it’s a good impression – not a humorous one. The clothes you wear in Italy speak much about what type of person you are.

Italian Business Etiquette – Punctuality

Some business sites will tell you that Italians are very punctual, while others state that they are not as concerned about punctuality as people in other European countries. If you are consistently late, it is considered rude. There’s nothing wrong with being early and having to wait. It will make a better impression.

As my story above, I was very fortunate that my business partners were willing to forgive and it didn’t happen again. If you are late, but sure to give the real reason and almost ways your Italian counterparts will understand.

Meetings and Negotiations

Use networks and contacts to introduce yourself to the business people with whom you will be working. Italians would rather do business with people they know.

Negotiations in Italy can be quite slow. Do not show urgency, as we frequently do in the United States. It works well here, but is seen as being too rushed in Italy and can potentially backfire all your hard work. Avoid business talk when the meeting first starts, and begin with small talk. Safe topics include culture, wine and soccer (remember, they call it football).

Italian business people take proposals away and analyze them well. Give them as much information as you can. Stay firm in any area of business that is important to you. Italians sometimes like to make dramatic demand changes late in negotiations to test you.

These are some good guidelines to help understand Italian business etiquette. Italians love to learn about you, they can show a great interest in your own interests, so don’t be afraid to share or ask. And remember, you’re in Italy! There is great food, culture, history, and sites! Here’s a list of top 5 things to do if you’re short on time in Rome.

Enjoy!

Traveling Around London like a Local

October 26, 2014

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Traveling Around London like a Local

Like any capital city, London is teeming with life and is busy at all times of the day. This can make traveling around the city a somewhat daunting task. This article aims to give you a few tips and pointers to help make your journeys as smooth as possible.

Buses

Perhaps the most iconic method of traveling around London are on those double story red buses! They are a symbol of London all over the world and it is a great novelty to be able to travel inside one. If you are new to London, traveling by bus is a great way to see other sights whilst on your way to your destination. You get a real feel for what London life is like as you watch the city unfold from the view from your window. This is a luxury which the tube does not offer. But if you choose to take the buses, you are of course susceptible to the infamous London traffic. It could take you a while to get from A to B.

The Tube

Traveling around London like a local definitely includes the tube.

Note that it is not called the subway, nor the metro, but the tube. This is very important, true locals will take it personally if you call it by the wrong name.

If you really want to conquer the tube like a local then you need to keep moving at all times. Don’t block the passageways by stopping to look at the signs and the maps. Of course, if it is your first time in London then this will be nearly impossible, but preparation is the key. Know whether you are traveling northbound, southbound, eastbound or westbound and what the final destination of the train you want to take is. This will hopefully prevent you from having to stop and ask a less-than-friendly businessman for advice.

Download an app

There are a number of really useful apps which can help you to plan your route while traveling around London, and will give you all of the information you need to know about any given journey. For the tube, there are apps which let you type in your starting station and your destination, and they will calculate the fastest way of making the journey, at which stations you need to change and how long the overall journey will take you. Transport for London make the most comprehensive journey planners.

Oyster Cards

If you are going to be in London for a while then an Oyster card will probably work out being the most cost effective (and fun) way to get around. You can buy one of these cards from a machine in all major stations, and you top it up with cash at any oyster point around London.

The cards are limited, so there is a maximum that you can spend per day but you will still get unlimited travel across all of the tube lines and zones. You can use them on the buses as well, and you just tap the card against the oyster logo at the station gates or by the driver on the bus and the card is charged wirelessly. The novelty of hearing the beep and the gates opening automatically doesn’t wear off even for the locals!

Black Cabs

The black cab is another classic icon and makes for a great way for traveling around London.

If you are only planning a couple of journeys a day and there are 4 or 5 of you traveling together, then cabs can actually work out cheaper per person than taking the bus or a tube. Talking to the driver can also be a great way to get up close and personal with the cockney accent, although cabbies aren’t always from London, of course.

All cab drivers in London have to pass a rigorous exam called ‘The Knowledge’ which can take up to 3 years to prepare for. It is by no means easy to pass, and in order to get qualified all drivers must have an impeccable knowledge of the city. You won’t be ripped off in a London cab; all of the drivers know the fastest routes between any two given points in London and will take you directly to your destination.

Traveling around London is so much fun and you can easily to do it like a local. The easiest way is the tube. But, even during rush hour times, be prepared to wait for a few trains and squeeze into any available spaces. All of the other methods of transport function perfectly well but the tube is definitely the form of transport which is the most direct, most efficient and easiest to get to grips with.

One book that was highly recommended to me by a friend of mine living in London is Fodor’s London 2015 (Full-color Travel Guide).
This book came in super handy every time I travel around London. I’d totally recommend it.

However, if you’re looking for some great outdoor enjoyment, nothing beats the buses! Sitting up on top is an automatic throw back into a far off time!

Enjoy your stay!

Italian Health Service – Understanding the Basics

October 25, 2014

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Italian Health Service – Understanding the Basics

I remember the first time my girlfriend and I traveled to Europe together. She was still a Mainland Chinese citizen at the time and as part of her requirements when applying for a visa was medical coverage, but it had to meet a certain list of criteria, such as a dollar amount of expenses covered and repatriation to your home country. This was the first time I had to research about these Italian Health Service requirements for my girlfriend and I kept a list of some of the top things I learned:

Italian Health Service: Socialized Medicine

While Americans are accustomed to their health insurance paying for some services, they often owe expenses out of pocket. These are not always collected at the time of service, but they will come due, after insurance pays their share.

Some tourists have been to the hospital in Italy numerous times, and the most paperwork they have filled out is a one-page form where they simply list their name and “tourist” as the reason for their visit.

Serious Medical Issues Are Different

In case you have a health problem that requires more intense hospital care, travel insurance is a wise investment. Some personal or group health insurance plans in the United States will pay for injuries or illnesses overseas, but many will not.

wwFor hospital stays in Italy, some care centers will give you a bill and then allow you and your insurance company to settle the costs. One notable exception is Blue Cross/Blue Shield. They do not normally cover illness or injury overseas.

Purchasing Medical Travel Insurance

Since most American insurance carriers will not extend their coverage internationally, you should purchase medical travel insurance before you depart for Italy. Having this coverage offers you protection if you have a medical emergency away from the United States.

Before you purchase travel insurance, get in touch with your current health insurance company to see if they have any coverage for you when you are traveling to Italy. If you are in Rome and do not have travel medical insurance, you may not receive a bill from the hospital or physician, or you might be responsible for all medical expenses yourself.

Also be sure to check to see if there are any requirements from the local consulate of the country you’re going to be visiting, they may request medical insurance from a particular provider.

My wife always uses Insure My Trip. They have many selections of specific types of policies you can purchase, even ones called “Shenghen” which is most of the European Union.

Speak to Human Resources, if You Are Employed

Speak with the human resources department of your employer to see if they have suggestions for companies who sell travel medical insurance. You can also use the website of the U.S. State Department to find a list of companies that sell medical insurance for people traveling overseas.

Compare Available Policies

Compare the policies available side by side. Consider the medical and accident coverage in each policy. Look to see what the minimum deductibles are, and whether the policy covers 24-hour emergencies and emergency evacuation.

Italian health clinics are available in all major cities that will offer you quality care without the same coverage you might need if you were travelling to a rural region or a developing nation.

Get a Quote from the Best Companies

Obtain quotes from the companies offering the coverage you seek. You can visit their website or speak to a representative by phone. The company representative will need to know your destination, travel dates and age.

Purchase a Travel Medical Policy before You Travel

Be sure that you purchase your policy before you leave on your trip. Your policy may also include coverage for trip cancellation and other types of travel coverage, in addition to your medical coverage. Make sure you have taken care of your insurance needs before you head off for Italy or other tourist destinations in Europe.

These were some of the best things I had learned when researching about Italian health service coverage for my girlfriend. Definitely check with your current medical policy if they extend coverage for outside of the US. If you need a visa, most consulate websites list the requirements needed. It’s just one of those small but securing feelings to have when traveling.

Enjoy!

Amazing Sites of England – Top 5

October 24, 2014

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Amazing Sites of England – Top 5

The earliest evidence of human existence is found in the region now called England and because of that there is an abundance of sights and attractions from different ages of human existence. Many people visit the country to witness the rich history and culture the country has to offer to different visitors.

When I say this, I need you all to understand that this could be completely biased, but England truly is in a league of its own when it comes to tourist attractions. From majestic castles to awe-inspiring historical sites, the country has it all.

1- Palace of Westminster

The first amazing sites of England would have to be the Palace of Westminster.

London was my first destination as my flight landed there. The Big Ben or should I call it the Elizabeth tower at the Palace of Westminster is the first place anyone should head to once they arrive in London.
The magnificent Palace of Westminster under a grey sky, standing tall and proud for over 150 years, is one of London’s top tourist destinations. I was pretty surprised that the palace has a different name, the tower is called Elizabeth Tower since 2012 and the 13 ton bell housed within the tower is called the Big Ben, I know right? Pretty cool!

2- Stonehenge

Following up on Westminster Palace, the second amazing sites of England easily goes to Stonehenge.

The Stonehenge is one of the most significant and amazing prehistoric sites in the world, produced by a culture we know nothing of. Evidence suggests it could have been erected somewhere in the 2,500 BC.

I could see the monument from miles away on my way to it. Once I got there and started to marvel at it, I began wondering about human civilization and how far we have come. I, for one, am glad that such amazing relics of our prehistoric heritage are left intact to this day. The area is really amazing to marvel at and see. Up until not too long ago, you could actually go up and touch the stones. But because of some damage recently, police have it roped off.

Just a bus ride away from London, I highly recommend going. Oh, and bring a sandwich!

3- Windsor Castle

Closely following on the heals of Stonehenge, the next amazing sites of England is Windsor Castle.

The Castle is located around an hour away from London, Windsor Castle is considered to be one of the oldest inhabited castles in the world.

The grandeur of the castle just goes to show the splendor of the English royalty, if you are heading down there, remember you can visit much of the castle from within, including the stupendous state apartments and St Georges Chapel.

4- York Minster

York Minister is a true site to behold, given that it was finishing being built in 637. It is one of the largest cathedrals in Northern Europe, York Minster incorporates all major parts of the gothic architecture.

The great east window inside the cathedral was simply breathtaking. It captivated me and I felt a sense of positive energy inside me while I was there. The feeling is kind of hard to explain but I am sure you will know what I mean when you see it.

5- The Cotswold

The Cotswold refers to a range of hills, in south central England. It is about 2 hours drive from London. The place known for the stately towns and gardens, stone built villages, and historical towns.

I must say the place looks incredibly cute and cozy. It is a treasure of hidden beauty with vast expanses with a million different shades of green. My being a bicycle nut rented a cycle and went off with the most wonderful group of people. Inside the Cotswold, there are many different places to visit, but some are not accessible to large couch tours. However, on that bicycle there was no limit. I even went to The Slaughters, Snowshill, Tetbury, Broadway, Batsford, Sherston, so on the list is never ending.

But before going I did do as much reading as possible to learn about these amazing places and I found just about all the information here: Lonely Planet England (Travel Guide)

These are really just some of the amazing sites of England, I could have seriously gone on forever but this is it for this blog. I’ll be writing about each of my stops to these incredible places in other posts but if you ever have the chance, I highly recommend checking out these locations.

Enjoy!

England Cathedrals – Top 5

October 24, 2014

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England Cathedrals – Top 5

I always used to wonder what it would feel like to stand at the entrance of Westminster abbey and look up at the rich gothic architecture, or visit St. Paul’s cathedral. As a child, I read about the deep histories of these places and it always compelled me to at least picture them in all their glory.

Recently I had the pleasure of witnessing these great England Cathedrals first-hand. Although I cannot even begin to explain how intriguing and amazingly beautiful all these places were (I will be retelling my stories in individual posts), I thought I would list them down based on how good they were for me.

These are my personal feelings, though, and there are many more gorgeous Cathedrals to see throughout the land.

Durham Cathedral

Truly one of the finest examples of Romanesque Architecture in England, the gothic style of the prevailing century of the time was quite different from what I saw here. Completed over a period of 40 years, the building was innovatively built with flying buttresses (hidden above the vaults), pointed arches, and ribbed vaults all together. What I liked most about the cathedral was the huge ceilings and the tapestries, all blended well with the gothic theme. I think it’s safe to say, I’ll definitely be seeing that place again.

Lincoln Cathedral

My second pick of top England Cathedrals Lincoln Cathedral just may be the most enjoyable piece of architecture you’ve ever seen. I spent hours drooling over the marvelous showcase of decorative art, the details and the color. If you ever do visit Lincolnshire, make sure you don’t miss this place. It is also known to be the 3^rd largest English cathedral. All the more reasons for you to pack up your bags and hit the road.

Westminster Abbey

There is no denying the fact that Westminster Abbey has probably the richest history of all the England Cathedrals.

It is built on a marshy retreat called Thorny Island where the River Tiburon used to run. When I stood inside the entrance of the abbey, I noticed the huge chandeliers in the nave that I had read about as a child. It was all as surreal as ever, I never imagined these places would be as interesting as I imagined them to be.

Ely Cathedral

The cathedral with the unique Octagon Tower, Ely must be one of the most marvelously engineered buildings of the middle ages. The ceiling of the cathedral is a huge tourist attraction, known for its unique Lantern Tower. Most English cathedrals are built with twin west towers, but Alan of Walsingham designed a central tower that seems to float above the Ely itself.

It is not just a tower though; the Norman and Gothic carvings in the oak give the entire structure a rare quality. And, be sure to look at the stained glass windows inside. They detail is unbelievable and the colors are so vibrant.

A must see.

York Minster

My last top 5 of England Cathedrals go to a medieval marvel, York Minster has the richest heritage of the entire lot.

It was burnt and destroyed time and time again and then slowly rebuilt, York was where Edwin Northumbria was baptized, and in fact it was built for the same purpose. Though the structure that stands today in all its glory is the most breathtaking sight you’ll ever see, and sitting outside, keeping watch over the Cathedral, Constantine. it still makes me wonder what it might have looked like before the fires.

These were my personal top choices for Cathedrals to see in England. Fortunately, most of them are in and around London so it is easy enough to make day trips. One book that was a bit inspirational for me, and I never put down while traveling around was The Gothic Cathedral.

The land is certainly filled with many more, all with an amazing history and towering over many of the local towns. Oh, and another one of my top picks, St. Pauls Cathedral, right in the heart of London.

Enjoy!

Seeing Rome in A Day

October 23, 2014

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Seeing Rome in A Day! The ‘Must-see’ Attractions in Rome if You’re Limited for Time

Is it really possible to see the best sites and places in Rome in just a day? The short answer to that question is yes! You can! But it’s going to be a really fast paced trip, started in the morning and finished in the evening. It’s best to split the time up into a few days if you have time. Really take in the sights, sounds, smells, history and glamor of it all. But, sometimes we have just one day.

Seeing Rome is on the bucket list of countless travelers, all over the world. There is so much to see, and if you sadly do not have enough time to spend in Rome as you would like, there are some sights that you simply cannot miss.

The Roman Coliseum

Seeing Rome must include seeing The Coliseum, which may be found east of the Roman Forum.

It was built for practical purposes, and includes 80 arched entranceways that allow 55,000 spectators to easily access the site. Originally, these spectators would be seated by rank. Outside the main coliseum is the Arch of Constantine. This monument was built in 315 A.D. as a tribute to Constantine’s victory over Maxentius, which occurred at Pons Milvius.

Imagine walking around this incredible feat of engineering, sitting in the spectator seats, and thinking back that they once flooded the entire arena and re-enacted famous naval battles!

The Fontana di Trevi

This lovely fountain, Trevi Fountain in English, is the largest of the Baroque fountains in Rome and considered to be one of the most beautiful fountains in the world. Local legend says that if you are visiting and toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, that this will ensure you another trip for seeing Rome.

Oh, and make sure to stop at Bar Gelateria while you’re there for arguably some of the best Gelatto in the world.

The Pantheon

This is the most influential and preserved building from ancient Rome. The temple is dedicated to the gods hailed by pagan Rome. It was built between 118 and 125 A.D., to replace a previous Pantheon that burned down in 80 A.D.

It is still used by The Church for official gatherings and meeting. Last time I was there, the Pope himself was due to be meeting several Bishops. Made for quite a spectacle with all the guards around the building. Unfortunately, we were all kept a distance away so seeing inside was difficult.

The Roman Forum

When I tell people that the Roman Forum is my most favorite place to visit in Rome, I’m often met with skeptical looks. I mean, down the block, literally, is the Coliseum. The highlight of any visit to Rome! Without question it is certainly the highlight and truly a world wonder to see. But the Forum was the seat of power of Rome, once the center of the world, the place where Ceasar himself was murdered by his trusted friends and colleagues. Legend has it that Romulus and Remus themselves founded Rome on that very spot. Pretty cool!

This was the showpiece center of ancient Rome. The district includes vibrant public places, proud basilicas and marble-clad temples. Today, you can only picture it as it was in ancient days, as you marvel over the impressive ruins. The landmark sites in the forum include the Curia and the Arco di Settimia Severo.

Basilica di San Pietro

Saint Peter's Square in Vatican City — Saint Peter’s Square in Vatican City

St. Peter's Square as seen from the Palatine Hills — St. Peter’s Square as seen from the Patine Hills

St Peter’s Basilica is the largest Christian Basilica. It is found in the Vatican City heart, and fills 186 meters in its length. The Basilica is 46 meters tall in the center and the main dome is an astounding 136 meters in height. It has ample space for 20,000 worshippers.

Scalinata della Trinità dei Monti

The Spanish Steps are a wonderful place from which to watch people, and many tourists find themselves here at some point. Piazza di Spagna, at the base, takes its name from the Spanish Embassy to the Holy See. The church atop the steps, Trinità dei Monti, was actually commissioned by the French King Louis XII in 1585. It is a place of wondrous Daniele da Volterra frescos and memorable views of the city.

Be sure to take in the sights above the steps as well, some of the best cafe’s line the area, filled with great tasting foods. The art inside the Church’s is beautiful to see and worth a visit inside if time permit.

Cappella Sistina

The Sistine Chapel was painted by 33-year old Michelangelo, who was much sought after as a painter and sculptor. He was ordered to work for Julius II in 1505, to create a tomb for the pope that rivaled anything created for any king, and even for Caesar.

The Circus Maximus

Did you know that the Circus Maximus is still used today? It is for huge crowds at rallies and music concerts. It was originally a chariot track, of course, for races in Rome after the 6^th century B.C. It was used also for gladiator battles and the Roman Games. The last chariot race on record at Circus Maximus took place in the 6^th century. In the 20^th century, it was partially excavated and remodeled.

If you can’t extend your stay in Rome, at least be sure to visit these ancient sights, which are considered among the most important in Rome. And, the book saves me while there (he’s up to 2015): Rick Steves Rome 2015

Seeing Rome in a day is quite an adventure, but can you really see it all in just one day?

Well, it really depends on what you want to see, but you can see most of the major sites. Fortunately, most of the places here are fairly close to one another so moving from one to the next isn’t too difficult. Just remember your walking shoes when seeing Rome!

Thanks!

Mime Festival – English Festivals and Events

October 22, 2014

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Mime Festival – English Festivals and Events

England is a diverse land full of a number of things to offer. There are many English Festivals and Events based on tradition. It may seem strange to foreigners, but one has to admit, nobody celebrates quite like the English.

Apart from the normal kind of festivities, I had the chance to attend the London International Mime Festival, which was quite a sweet surprise. Yes, a real Mime Festival!

I attended the performances with a few friends who were all theatre and arts enthusiasts, but I have to say, we didn’t quite get what we expected. Most of us had seen silent plays or something close, but never actually mimes.

I pictured them like in cartoons, white and black with a French hat. But the festival completely blew my mind.

The performances were unveiled one by one; we were all intrigued by the ambience and the entire feel of it. Little did we know what was about to come our way would be memorable for life.

After the Circus tricks and the Extreme Dances, it was time for the Physical Imagery, breathtaking and extremely well-rehearsed moves depicting such sweet little stories. The whole festival was full of such beautiful little anecdotes that shocked us or made us laugh from time to time. Imagine thinking back to when you were a child and your mom or dad reading you a bedtime story and picturing that story unfold in your mind. That’s what it felt like to see these amazing performances!

Dancers and Jugglers glided through every now and then while the mime’s story was told, it was great to see such precise movements and such deep meaningful steps. With every move, the mime shifted our moods as the story unfolded.

By the time this was done, my friends and I were dumbstruck at just how much can a person say with his hands, feet and the way he moves them? We found out that day.

The Mime Festival went on with many great performances; Exotic Japanese Puppetry, Ballet Dances, The Puppet opera, The Fox Dance, and so on and so forth.

It was a night full of lights and stars with art and culture surrounding us. Attending the London International Mime Festival was one of the most artistically liberating experiences of my life.

After the mime festival ended, my friends and I stopped at a small English café on our way back home and we sat and recapped the beautiful performances we saw that day; we talked about the jugglers and the dancers, with their costumes and tricks; the imps and the acrobats with the agile leaps and the soft landings, it all seemed very far away yet still fresh in my memory.

But the thing I can’t seem to forget is the story the mimes depicted, how their fingers could depict a sunrise as well as the darkest hour of the night. I don’t remember each part, and I guess it doesn’t really matter. What mattered was the narrative. The way the story was told.

I’ve lived in many places, and life has been different during them all. But a land where people invest time and money for the education of the human mind, for the preservation of an art, for keeping the essence of telling a story, and for the simple things in life, is a land worth visiting and enjoying all it has to offer. And be sure to never run out of power anywhere on your trip with any of your mobile devices with the best external power for phones and tablets.

Oh, and the mime festival this year is from January 8th to the 13th. If you have a chance, I highly recommend checking it out!

Enjoy!

Dolomite Mountains – The Beauty of Northern Italy

October 21, 2014

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Dolomite Mountains – The Beauty of Northern Italy

In a word… breathtaking….

At the top of Italy, you will find the wondrous Dolomite Mountains. Once known as the “Pale Mountains”, the minerals in their dolomite rock turn pink in the late afternoon light. They are unique spectacles to behold. As the sun sets, they become red, as the rock traps light and tricks the eyes in an effect that the locals call “enrosadira”.

History of the Dolomite Mountains

Much history can be found in the passes of these mountains. Austro-Hungarian and Italian troops clashed in the mountains in the First World War. The mountains are inter-laced with iron roads, which are narrow, fabricated climbing paths. These serve as evidence of the long struggle for this border area.

The people who live in the valleys of the Dolomites are unique, like the rocks surrounding them. Even with armies and empires fighting over the land, the locals do not call themselves Austrian or Italian. They are known as the Ladin (lah-deen) and their native tongue is a language with a base in Latin.

Relive the Past in World War I Galleries and Tunnels

During WWI, the Italians and Austrians built elaborate tunnels in the Dolomite Mountains. You can explore these historical paths and visit a museum dedicated to this unique aspect of history. At the Rifugio Lagazuoi, found at the Lagazuoi Mountains summit, you will gaze in awe at one of the best 360-degree views of the Dolomites.

Touring the Dolomite Mountains

The cold air invigorates all those who visit the Dolomites. Perched on the sides of the mountains are small, wooden huts where visitors stop for cheese and speck (their unique smoked, cured ham). Unless you ski or hike, you may not find these restful huts.

During the summer months, the mountains are blanketed by fields of pink rhododendron and edelweiss. Relaxing at cloud level, you can wonder once more at the beauty all around you. Many tourists spend full days in the mountains, with expert drivers and guides who will regale you with the history of the mountains.

Lake Misurina and Lake Santa Caterina are two of the most beautiful lakes in the area. The peaks of Tre Cime di Lavaredo are true symbols of the Dolomites of Italy. With no other peaks close by, they are even more breathtaking in their beauty and height. Even though the name implies three towers, you will actually see six, all named and all awe-inspiring.

Hiking the Iron Road – a Via Ferrata

This is a safe way for you to traverse the Dolomites’ mountainous paths. The paths offer protection in bridge-like form, for travelers to follow the path to one of the mountain range’s summits. Safety cables, bridges and metal rungs allow hikers to access remote areas otherwise reserved for rock climbers and mountaineers. Even inexperienced climbers will enjoy this endeavor. The views are indescribable.

You may tour the area of Lake Misurina by coach. This lovely lake is called the “Pearl of the Dolomites”. You’ll want to bring your camera along to catch the lovely shots of this lake with the backdrop of Tre Cime di Lavaredo.

Tucked into the mountains you will also find Cortina d’Ampezzo, a ski resort for the rich and famous. The bustling resort is surrounded by the towering Dolomite Mountains. You may enjoy the boutiques in town, or visit a street-side café for coffee.

Some of the most well hidden passes in the Dolomites are only accessible during bike tours of the mountain range. Passes new to those who have never cycled in these mountains have been used for years, for races, but are virtually unknown outside of these races. There is always something new to explore in the regal, rugged Dolomites. And with all those paths, tunnels, walks, bike rides towns, I’ve seen all of my guides use Garmin eTrex 20 Worldwide Handheld GPS Navigator
and we never got lost.

Without question, these amazingly gorgeous Dolomite Mountains offer more than what might the eyes upon first glance from afar.

Filled around and within are wondrous people and a unique culture and language, terrific foods and coffee, and activities year round. Coming here was an adventure I will cherish forever. And what struck me most was the diverse amount of people.

Enjoy!

Northern England Road Trip

October 21, 2014

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Northern England – Road trip around the Northern Bend

I remember the first time I read about England, I must’ve been in middle school. The maps included were amazing, they really made me feel like I was in the country, seeing the landscape, smelling the sweet scents of the air, reliving a part of history that is truly amazing. I knew then that I wanted to not just go, but to take a Northern England Road Trip!

bridge — A Gorgeous town on the road to northern England

I had gone on a Northern England road trip a while ago; it was an amazing experience.

Like the ones we dream of when we’re young, either soaring through the skies, going to the beach with the family, which I shared with a few friends and family after my return. But I felt that the experience had to be shared on a larger scale. That’s when I decided to write about it in hope that I will inspire more people whether local or tourist to take on this amazing journey.

Before we start I must confess that I am one of those people who derive therapeutic pleasure out of driving. So the drive was long but a satisfying one, the scenery was breathtaking and the pubs were simply amazing.

The route I am going to be talking about starts around 12 miles after Alston, with a right turn taking us on the B6305 to Hexham. If you haven’t been to Hexham, I suggest you make a stop in this town just like I did.

I found the town to have a rich historic significance, build around a Benedictine monastery, called the Hexham Abbey.

I took my time enjoying the architecture of the structure and the stained glass was simply marvelous, while observing the crypt I was told, the bricks used in its construction were reclaimed roman bricks.

This moment was my first Northern England Road trip “wow” moment because it made me think for a moment. Rome is in Italy, I am here in this gorgeous town in northern England. Talk about a distance and still we’re talking about the Romans!

Anyway, after I left the town of Hexham, I continued on my northern England road trip and found myself a couple of miles south of Hadrian’s Wall. Since this was my first seeing the monumental wall, I took a brief detour from north of Chollerford and then west on the Military Road, B6318. I just had to walk the wall, so I started from the section near Once Brewed, a thrilling experience walking on a piece of history itself. This was THE furthest extend of the Roman Empire, in its height, stretching from the Middle East to Northern England!

hadrian's wall, roughly 1200 miles from Rome — hadrian’s wall, roughly 1200 miles from Rome

After musing around the wall, I headed back to Hexham and on my way I visited the Roman garden in Chollerford.

From Hexham I headed south on the B6306, driving through the tranquil Slaley Forest to the tiny village of Blanchland, where I stopped and dined at the historic Lord Crewe Arms Hotel and its cozy fireplace.

I would say of the entire Northern England Road trip, this is where I was the most relaxed. The town is what one pictures in there head when reading about “old” England. Peaceful with very kind people. Home are filled with flowers and books and great smelling foods! The hotel was picturesque

garden at the lord crewe arms hotel, blanchland

Beyond the Blanchland Derwent Reservoir, I turned left on the B6278 at Edmundbyers leading me to the Manor House Inn. I visited the pubs famous for the best pub food in north eastern England, and left immediately. My next stop was Allenheads, and that is because I just couldn’t have left without visiting the Allenheads Inn. There I saw the most incredible and extraordinary décor, the food was just as excellent as the environment, and if you do manage to go there don’t be surprised to see a four foot wooden chicken on a dining table.

Eventually, I continued on north on the B6295, till I got to Allendale Town, mostly because I wanted to see The King’s Head and it was nice to visit the town as well. I was told by the people that New Year’s Eve is the right time to visit Allendale. However, the town has a nice rustic feel to it and I simply breathed in the atmosphere while travelling through it.

Finally, a short run north on B6295 towards Langley, then a left back on the A686 for an exhilarating descent to Penrith. It turned out to be an incredible drive around the country which I will cherish for a longest time to come.

Brougham Castle near penrith — Brougham Castle near Penrith

This was one of the most scenic trips I ever took in my life and was totally surprised and impressed by my Northern England Road trip. The trip is easy to make with plenty of tour buses going to all of these beautiful towns. But if you get the chance, rent a car and truly take in the sights!

Englands National Parks – Your Guide to Discover

October 19, 2014

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Englands National Parks – Your Guide

For such a small country, England has a huge natural variety!

Englands National Parks by no means match the scale of those found in the United States, but they are all unique and offer a great insight into England’s natural beauty. Let’s set a little time aside to take a look at three of them.

Dartmoor

Dartmoor is truly beautiful. Its dramatic and somewhat stark looking landscape is made up of exposed granite on top of the hills. The striking and really quite harsh surroundings give Dartmoor a threatening quality and it is easy to see why it has a reputation of being a mystical place. There are a number of ghost stories set on the moors and visitors can see all of the places referenced around Dartmoor.

It can be a great activity for people of all ages to read out the myths and legends whilst stood on the sites where they take place, to really get a sense of the mystery of the moors. There are many landmarks which you can visit on the moors, including Bowerman’s Nose, Jay’s Grave and the Stone Crosses. But my absolute favorite is the legend of Childe’s Tomb.

The cross which marks Childe’s tomb was allegedly constructed to mark the burial site of Childe the Hunter. The legend states that Childe was out hunting on the moor when a storm hit. The storm was wild and raging and Childe lost sight of the group he was hunting with. There was no shelter at all out on the bleak and dramatic moor, so the only protection he had was his horse. He hid behind the horse but the wind was howling from all directions and blowing the harsh weather against him.

He eventually killed his horse, tore out its insides and then crawled inside the body for shelter. He could feel himself slipping away, and just before he froze to death he wrote a letter saying that whoever found his body and buried him in their church would inherit all of his land and money.

The body was found by a group of monks who began to carry it back to Tavistock Abbey. On their way back they heard that a group of people were planning to ambush them to steal the body and claim the inheritance.

They decided to take a detour and build their own bridge to return and safely bury Childe in the grounds of the abbey and inherit his Plymstock estate. Childe’s tomb can still be seen and visited today and you get a real idea of how terrifying it would be to be trapped on the moor in a raging storm.

North York Moors

Continuing on our traverse of Englands National Parks, the North York Moors are a huge expanse of heather moorland. They are much more colorful than Dartmoor and give a more upbeat view of the British countryside. One of the best things about the North York Moors is the North Yorkshire Moors Steam Railway which travels from Pickering to Whitby.

For kids and train enthusiasts alike the steam train can be a really fun day out. You get a real sense of what train travel would have been like before electric and diesel engines came about and it is also a fantastic way to see the beautiful scenery in all weathers.

The steam railway offers a more comfortable view of the moors than walking or cycling. For the more adventurous among you it is possible to rent bikes and cycle along the various trails and become part of the stunning landscape.

Lake District

The Lake District is perhaps the most famous of Englands National Parks.

It is the home of England’s highest mountain, Scafell Pike, as well as its deepest lake, Wastwater. The Lake District is the most populated of Englands National Parks; there are loads of quintessential English villages where you can stay in traditional Bed & Breakfasts and really immerse yourself in English culture.

If you are looking for a truly memorable experience to add to your holiday, the Lake District is a great place to try out a new adventure sport, or practice an old favorite. Kids and adults alike can delight in raft building, gorge walking, mountain biking, canoeing, archery, scrambling and kayaking to name just a few!

So whether you are looking for a quiet countryside retreat, an action-packed adventure holiday or just an opportunity to explore the diversity of England’s stunning natural beauty, Englands national parks could be exactly what you are looking for. They are well worth a visit, whatever the nature of your trip. The quaint country villages make for cozy, romantic getaways and the opportunity for adventure allows for exciting family vacations.

And, just check out that featured images. Yup! That’s an aqueduct, and not just any aqueduct, but one built from the Romans themselves!

Be sure to check out more entries about that very aqueduct and more about Englands National Parks!

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