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Italianissimo – Italian luxury

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Author: Diana Carter

Italianissimo – Italian luxury

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My love affair with Italy began a long time ago, it’s scary to think – more than 20 years ago. At a time when traveling hitchhiking during studies was still trendy and not associated with abnormal ambitions.

Italy. Country Camorra, sexist television Berlusconi century scandals and high fashion. A country where it is not proper to talk about politics, just as it falls to walk in unfashionable coat or bad to eat. A country where every guy says that the best cooks is his mamma, and therefore we have lived with this for 40 years. Italy is a country of great extremes. The rich North and poor South can not stand each other, but according to function and division of the country there is no question. If any of you seen the Lake Como area and the suburbs of the Calabrian towns, knows what I’m talking in terms of extremes. However, in the south of Italy are numerous sandy beaches, healthy, simple and delicious cuisine, varied coastline and people who can take the traveler with an open heart. Nowhere else I have not heard so often call t invitiamo a casa nostra and mangiare (invite home for dinner).Puglia is becoming increasingly fashionable, ten years ago I would not dare turn her offer, now I can safely recommend a few luxury hotels, villas and family resorts.

Italy- Tuscany

Do not try to understand why Italy should try to impress you and reap for yourselves what is best. John Paul II was a great man, and one of thousands of his contribution to the world is that thanks to him we Poles are perceived in Italy as very positive. With all the conviction I can say that nothing gives me as much pleasure as being in exceptional and charming Italian hotels and enjoying their splendor. Italians are very hospitable and restaurateurs are genuinely worried if unconsummated will send you a plate of culinary creation of a chef. Furthermore, such cases are rare. If they do happen, it is only because of overeating. Creating a ranking of the best Italian hotels is a real challenge. In fact they lie in different regions of this extraordinary country and each region is famous for other attractions. However undertake this task and I will try, even in brief, to present several hotels – the best, unique and absolutely worthy of your visit.

Lefay

Italian lakes Garda and Como
I’ll start from the far north: the best hotel at the lake Garda Lefay. There just are closer to heaven!Unbelievable location on the “roof of the world” and fine dining, all products from local gardens and all excellent. It is said that the restaurant is among the best in this region of Italy. However, the biggest attraction is the beautiful outdoor heated swimming pool and sensational Lefay Spa World, reminiscent decor and trendy nightclub. Treatments here are definitely recommendable, especially peach scrub and wrap with extra virgin olive oil. Spa as a rule I do not care for, but in Lefay it had on me so impressed that I booked a long weekend there and counted down the days on the calendar. Lefay can be visited throughout the year, and the journey from southern Poland is 10-12 hours of fast driving.

CastaDiva

From Lake Garda to Lake Como there is only 2 hours distance. Wonderful, picturesque, “film” Lake Como … Who was not, let him regret it. Not without reason aristocrats, billionaires and movie stars George Clooney at the helm, bought residences here. Around the lake are a few good hotels, the top three are: Villa D’Este, Villa Serbelloni and CastaDiva. CastaDiva combines the character of an aristocratic residence with modernity, and is set in a beautiful garden. Has long been the owner of the villa, Giuditta Pasta, was an opera singer, outstanding soprano. She was also the muse of Vincenzo Bellini, who was there, on Lake Como, wrote his most famous opera Norma and La Sonnambula. If you visit the hotel during the summer, we will arrive at organized concerts there. The hotel has a wide range of spas and proposes relaxing on a floating platform on the lake with a swimming pool.

Villa Serbelloni - scalone_base

Bellagio is the pearl of Lake Como, and located at the Villa Serbelloni there is a real work of nineteenth-century architecture. Frequented over the years by Churchill, Roosevelt, Rothschild, JF Kennedy, Clark Gable, Al Pacino. We also have a strong Polish accent there – you Dus, co-owner, is Polish. Excitable people who run the hotel are a legend, attach considerable importance to the kitchen. Incidentally there is a one of the few restaurants with molecular cuisine. I would recommend the simplest dish: spaghetti al pomodoro and ice cream made at the table with liquid nitrogen. Sky in his mouth and also something for the eye.

Villa D’Este is a legend of hospitality since 1873. It is no secret hotel that Berlusconi often frequented it during his presidency. The secret remains of who frequented. Now often we meet here presidents of Eastern Europe or the former Soviet Union and legendary Americans.

Villa d'Este from the Lake

Como is a charming town, where everyone can find something for themselves. Silk scarf or new Prada shoes, delicious pizza, light aircraft flight around the lake, luxury boats Riva. I would recommend anyone a half-day boat trip on Lake Como and a trip to Villa Balbianello. Star Wars was filmed there and the episode of the adventures of James Bond Casino Royale with Daniel Craig (eg. The famous scene when Bond comes to health and Swiss banker brings him a suitcase).

Venice
City Casanova, an extremely rich culture, singing gondoliers and aristocratic palaces. Many hotels hide beneath an impressive mask the sad truth that require it (I note that in my eyes) General “faceliftingów”. If your budget allows you, it is better not to risk and book simply Belmond Hotel Cipriani. The only one on the island with an Olympic-sized swimming pool. For those of you who are looking for unusual experiences, but not necessarily cheap, we highly recommend a private evening with the stars of the opera. Luxury Travel will help you arrange eg. An engagement or wedding anniversary in one of the most unusual places, the sounds of the violin, double bass or involving prime opera singers. In a larger group, you can order a “full option” with Venetian masks and shoot from that evening movie. While in Venice, it is difficult to ignore such things as ride the gondola, be the singing il gondoliere, and a visit to the glass factory on Murano Island.

Cipriani (Copy)

Tuscany
Certainly each of you will find your happiness in the fabulous Tuscany. A visit to Florence is a must. Let me tell you also an open secret: the best place to enjoy the panorama of the city and the Duomo terrace of one of the two hotels in Fiesole – Villa San Michele belongs to the network Belmond or Il Salviatino. Belmond Villa San Michele is one of the most beautiful hotels in Italy, as we can imagine ourselves as very rich history. Florence is beautiful, and the local climate and boutiques – the only of its kind. Masters recommend shops with original silk ties, and the ladies encourage you to purchase handmade cossaks in unusual colors (stivali fatti a mano). You do not run the risk that the same will be on another woman. The restaurant is much, I confess such a rule as the Italians: the modest decor, the tastier food. One of the trendier hotels is a designJKPlace. It should appear here, as in the bar … Speaking of Florence, you can not skip Villa La Massa. Hotel-institution, a meeting place for high society and Florentine aristocracy. If you are ever in the area, I recommend a glass of Prosecco on the lovely terrace overlooking the Arno River at sunset.

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The best place to explore the Chianti region, its vineyards, San Gimignano and Siena, will lock the Castello del Nero. The beautiful and fairly sizable hotel offered to us the best: great apartments, local cuisine with its own vineyard and olive press-service spa and unruffled view of the Tuscan hills. If someone travels to Tuscany, but with the option of sunbathing, then I suggest staying in a hotel Tombolo Thalasso. Well located, can be a place for some rest and lounging on a sandy beach. It can also be a base for exploring Tuscany. The hotel also offers complex spa and swimming pools with heated sea water. I recommend it especially for families with children. Another charming place, known mostly to Italians, is Punta Ala. There we would recommend the hotel Cala del Porto, a member of the prestigious Relais & Chateaux, intimate, with a nice beach and a unique restaurant. Due to the lack of activities for children it is more suitable for a romantic getaway for two. Its big advantage is good road access from Rome. The game can also enter access by the Polish.

Florence

Lazio & Rome
Heading towards Rome, moving to the region of Lazio. It’s hard not to write though a few words about the incredible luxury hotel, La Posta Vecchia. It was the private residence of the richest man in the world Paul Getty. Currently, it is one of the most expensive and most luxurious Italian hotels and from its interior one can admire works of art worth millions of euros. The hotel absolutely deserves a visit, even in the long weekend.

Eternal City and eternal in the maniana … To avoid traffic jams, introduced in Rome rather bizarre restrictions for car owners: half the cars can drive on even days, odd remaining. That provision does not, however, solve the problem by the end, so it’s best to get around on foot. So we can explore the city while walking, you’ll need a good hotel with a convenient location. I can name here: Hotel de Russie, majestic Boscolo Exedra and located 3 minutes from the famous Via Veneto Hotel Eden. In Eden it is located on the rooftop restaurant Terrazza del Eden (2 Michelin stars), with spectacular panoramic views of the city. The hotel is currently managed by ultraluksusową Dorchester Hotel Group, owned by the Sultan of Brunei.

In search of the most refined tastes, elegance and excellence, let us go closer to the Colosseum – a truly boutique hotel Palazzo Manfredi. Luxury in every detail and unparalleled attention to detail. The place is recommended to all: business travelers, couples on romantic honeymoons, Valentine’s Day, but also the ladies traveling alone on a shopping escapade. Booking a stay with Luxury Travel, you are guaranteed to receive the best price and / or additional bonuses.

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Amalfi & Capri & Ischia
Amalfi will seduce you with a rocky coastline, wonderful air enriched with the scent of lemons and freshly baked pizza. It is impossible to come here and not to succumb to the charm of the area. And if you want to get into the boundless admiration, it is best thanks accommodation in one of the best hotels. It is unrivaled Belmond Hotel Caruso in Ravello. Great location of the hotel, impeccable service, simple but exquisite cuisine and views of the endless sea of a ​​fabulously situated swimming pool. If you want something more, then book your best Presidential Suite. Perhaps that is where your dreams come true on holiday in the most beautiful place on Earth. A slightly different style, so-called “monastic” hotel Monastero Santa Rosa. Place incredibly beautiful, and to this “spiritual” because the hotel was for years a monastery. Recently restored and running successfully for two years, has already made its great reputation. It is the quintessential luxury, breathtaking location, exquisite cuisine. Time has stood still and every one of you breathe here blissfully and looking for inspiration – you will find it right there, Monastero Santa Rosa.

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Ischia Island is known for its thermal waters and the most famous Italian spa. During your stay here at de rigueur applying yourself several treatments in mud or in brine. We rejuvenate the eyes, especially if you follow a diet based on grapes, in the form of a divine drink. Ischia to me a little unappreciated and poorer sister of Capri, but more traditional, without the crowds and fewer superficial models. The nicest hotel on the island – Mezzatorre – offers everything we dream about – fabulous location, privacy, swimming pools with hot water, a private beach and excellent cuisine. During my last visit, I found out that the international clientele is at the highest level. If a Russian strays there, it will likely be a subdued oligarch, without a great entourage.

Pic 10 - Monastero Santa Rosa

Capri is now definitely a place to promote itself. In the port we will see competing yachts to the streets a veritable fashion statement native of Milan. It is not surprising that couples with a large age difference between the lords and ladies (and this in two pages) or room rate of 2000 euros per night. Capri is the most desirable (next to Porto Cervo and Portofino) holiday destination, favored by Italian and international financial elite. I must, however, be objective and admit that there is a beauty, and the prices are justified.

Liguria, Portofino
If you want to relax in a big way, we can not ignore the said Portofino Hotel Splendidobelonging to the network Belmond. The charms of the place have already been appreciated by, among others, Humphrey Bogart and Bill Gates. Splendido is a luxury for big L. Beautiful rooms and more beautiful apartments, an ideal bar with the perfect music, reading service in our thoughts and perfectly matched wine to the perfect dinner. If there is a snake in your pocket, you can relax there pretty good, and even fun. If money is no object – as it is nicely speak English – so as not to stand out from the rest of the company, you can rent a boat. Fortunately, you can rent it out for a few hours. Therefore, no worries, your account is still on the bag, Fendi watch Panarei and a bottle of Sassicaia to congratulate yourselves for great taste.

Mezzatorre

Sardinia
A similar character as Capri and Portofino has Porto Cervo. Space villa prices meant that the place has retained its atmosphere and is very exclusive. A delicious Sardinian white wineVermentino di Gallura does not cause headaches, prices in boutiques longer so. On the Costa Smeralda we find ten good hotels, but write about the best that I know personally. They include the Hotel Cervo in the heart of Porto Cervo, Cala di Volpe and Romazzino. All belong to superekskluzywnej Starwood. In these hotels you pay for location, atmosphere, setting and for the company. So that you can feel the comfort and the highest standard, I encourage you to book a spacious apartment or – if the budget does not play a role – one of the beautiful villas in the gardens of the Hotel Colonna. Luxury Travel offers attractive rates for guests staying in these hotels and can offer you additional bonuses, which certainly meet with great acclaim.

One of my favorite hotels does not lie on the beach, but a beautiful, secret cove Poltu Quatu, which most visitors Smeralda never even heard of. Grand Hotel Poltu Quatu is a place for connoisseurs of good style, away from the crowds, or for owners yachts.

Orient Express Hotel Splendido, Portofino 04

Sicilia
I love romantic piano bars where you always play for enduring hits in the style of Adriano Celentano or Toto Cutugno. The more wine circulating in your veins, the bolder the songs become. One of the most beautiful and most romantic towns of Sicily is undoubtedly Taormina. Here you will find several such bars, both on the main street and on the terrace the most luxurious hotel –Grand Hotel Timeo. Belonging to the elite of Belmond (former Orient Express) Hotel Timeo, located in the original setting of the Roman amphitheater, it has the best location in the city.Guests enjoy the beach situated below the sister hotel Belmond Villa Sant ‘Andrea. I could write much about a few more hotels in Sicily, but it is not necessary. Deciding to stay at Villa Sant’Andrea and Grand Hotel Timeo, we guarantee that nothing that we do not miss the best. I would recommend visiting Sicily at Easter – spring blooming orange trees and most of the parish celebrates the feast during the procession. Especially noteworthy are richly decorated Sicilian Baroque churches, I especially recommend trips to the towns of Noto, Ragusa and Modica. The latter is also famous for traditional chocolate confectionery and gourmet cuisine.

Pic 13 Poltu Quatu (Copy)

If you get tired of us we have beach and boutiques of Taormina, a sign it was time to “attack” Mount Etna. You can enter her car with four-wheel drive or train, but along the way you must visit one of the superb vineyards. Grapes grown on volcanic lava have a specific taste, which is why the wine made from them fits both fish and meat dishes. Connoisseurs of red wines with a strong taste for vineyard recommend Gambino. One can only wonder if her owner, a sympathetic older man,padre di famiglia, is related to the famous family koligacjami Gambino mobster from New York … If someone is attracted to golf in an unusual setting, he has a chance to play in Etna Golf Club.After the larger explosion, some greens covered lava field therefore eternally alive, and becomes more and more shapes.

Belmond Villa Sant'Andrea, Taormina - Sicily (3)

Aeolian Islands & Pantelleria
Sicily is not only an attraction in itself, but also a place of “transit” on the way to the smaller islands. The most interesting of these is the Aeolian Islands, led from the volcano and advanced toward Tunisia Pantelleria. Vulcano Island dazzles you with volcanic landscapes and picturesque sunsets. The best place to observe them is Therasia Resort & Spa. This is the only five star hotel on the archipelago and deserves special mention. 21 km 2 of the island you will not find golden sand, but ukoicie senses at the spa and natural pools with healing clay and hot springs. Other benefits of Vulcano is an outstanding cuisine based on the freshest fish, and the lack of crowds of tourists.

One of the smallest and most southern islands of Pantelleria. It Henceforth is already closer to Africa than to the Italian soil. Select the extraordinary journey of a small plane from Trapani and Palermo. The landing takes place on the slopes of an extinct volcano – Pantelleria greet you with clean air and black volcanic beaches. Island of “ubiquitous” charm should be on the itinerary of anyone who prefers a remarkable place. And the best cuisine in the world. The sea around Pantelleria’s black slopes are rich in red tuna, and the earth is born only dark grapes. The lighter is used for the production of sweetish wine Passito di Pantelleria. The peculiarity of the island is that the locals are reluctant to consume imported products, which affects the excellent quality and freshness of everything there to try.

Pic 15 Therassia Resort

The next peculiarity is beating there, both inside the island, as well as on its coasts, hot springs, With natural stone sauna and mud with healing properties can be used free of charge. It is a phenomenon across the European Union. As a rule, for such things we have to pay dearly! Our compatriots will enjoy for sure that in the forests of Pantelleria, you can collect mushrooms, among others, chanterelles and boletes. The best hotel of those I visited, a club Levante. It offers great views of the rock formation in the shape of an elephant trumpets and comfortable accommodation. However, they fell the most in my memory delight owners with whom we can drink more than one glass of that wine Passito di Pantelleria.

Pic 16 club Levante 2

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