Manarola from the hiking trail

The Cinque Terre region of Italy is one of the most beautiful spots in the country. Cinque Terre means “Five Lands” in Italian and is a collection of five small villages nestled into the cliffs on the Ligurian Sea. The villages were founded on agriculture and fishing, but now survive with the help of tourists dollars.

Cinque Terre is an easy day trip from Florence, Pisa or Milan (Pisa is the closest airport), but you should plan at least two days on the shortest trip, and more like 4-5 if you really want to relax. There’s not a whole lot to do in Cinque Terre really, but that is its charm.

Each of the five villages has its own distinct personality. Monterosso is the most resorty of the towns. It is the only one with full-service hotels and a true beach – though it is a rocky one. Just south of the town is Vernazza, another village popular with tourists and known for its picturesque harbor (it also has a very small beach).

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This is a destination you probably have not thought of – yet. Well its time to change that.

If you are visiting Europe, or live there, it is a short flight to this island in the Mediterranean. Kayt Sukel, based in Germany, explains that the island has a remarkable history. Its temples pre-date the Egyptian pyramids. The island has great hotel options – but you could consider B&Bs or even renting a villa. The food is rich in choices – after all, the island has a great location in terms of regional influences. Getting around is easy by bus and there are great beaches and diving. Take a look at the island’s tourism information here.

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It’s called the Eternal City. But you got to do that first visit. So what do you do on your first visit? Cat Lincoln has been to Rome a few times and explains what a first time visitor needs to do. She explains about the sense of the city too – what to do after museums and what to watch out for. Like sitting on a piazza in the afternoon; don’t get swayed by the beautiful people and go shopping. Better to just soak in more of the city’s amazing history all around you.

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Related posts:  Residenza Madri Pie; When in Rome, Definitely Take a Tour.

The Tenuta di Canonica Agriturismo in Todi, Italy

I’m one of those parents who prefers to keep my children penned in to the backyard area with a hose and some water balloons, because when I take them out in public we are bound to meet mishap of one kind or another.  As such, our travels, while increasing in frequency as the boys get older, have yet been limited to family visits and low-profile excursions.  I have read with envy the blog posts about families traveling to Europe or the Amazon, experiencing epic adventures together.  “Someday…” I dream, wistfully.

Someday might come sooner than later if opportunities like Piccolo Chef’s Italian Culinary Vacations become possible for us.
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