Tre Domande -- Three Questions With Canio Di Milia, Mayor of Stresa

In this new feature I plan on occasion to introduce you to some Stresiani, people who live in Stresa. I'll ask them each three questions, and in this way we'll get to know them and hear their own perspectives on this lovely little city. For my very first interview I have the great honor of introducing you to il Primo Cittadino di Stresa, that is, the mayor. Canio Di Milia has been the mayor of Stresa since 2005, and he was kind enough to take the time to answer three questions for me.

1. Please describe Stresa for my English-speaking readers who have never been there.

Stresa is a city that captures its visitors with its natural beauty. For its lush greenness and for its flowers. We are, in fact, a city known for its gardens, where it is also possible to see and discover diverse styles and philosophies of gardening, from Italianate gardens on Isola Bella, to those in the English style on Isola Madre, to that specializing in the Alpine botanical species at Il Giardino Alpinia. These natural beauties are found between the water, Lago Maggiore, and the mountain, Mt. Mottarone, Stresa’s own mountain. These characteristics make Stresa, from a certain point of view, unique and magical, and they have permitted, almost naturally, that these natural beauties have paired with numerous cultural initiatives. Think to the concerts of the “Settimane Musicali di Stresa e del Lago Maggiore,” or to the philosophical-humanistic culture found here in the presence of the immortal spirits of the philosopher Rosmini and the poet Rebora, the symposium Rosmini, and the International Center of Rosminian Studies. And there is also its great cuisine, inspired by the Scuola Alberghiera of Stresa, which is the oldest cooking school in all of Italy.

2. What thing do you like the most in Stresa?

If I must say what, to me it pleases most Isola Pescatori, where it is possible to rediscover the charm of a little village of another time, where fishermen really do live, with a romantic atmosphere of an earlier age.

3. How do you see Stresa five years from now?

Stresa, five years from now, will be renewed but always in our historic tradition. It needs in fact, for the future, to move in the direction of a more selective level of tourism, and more respect for the environment, the things which are most precious for the city.

Canio keeps a blog of his own for the citizens of Stresa to read. If you'd like to take a glance at his (Italian) blog, or listen to the video talks he gives on it, here is the link: www.caniodimilia.blogspot.com

Can I take my Car Rental Out of State?

We are traveling to Alabama in the spring and wonder if there are rental agencies that would allow a trip from say Wisconsin to Alabama for 8 days?

If you mean a trip to Wisconsin to Alabama and back to Wisconsin; I'm sure that you'll be able to find at least one or two car rental companies that will allow the travel to adjacent states. Check different companies for a rate quote using your preferred pickup location, dates, times, return locations, dates, times and preferred vehicle type.

Just make sure that when you're checking rates, to pay careful attention to the mileage restrictions (look for unlimited mileage) and check for any "terms and condition" or "policies" or "restrictions" related to the rental rate and especially mileage to make sure that you will be allowed to take the rental car where you want to.

I hope this helps.

More Tips:

Comparing Car Rental Rates

The uncertain fate of Lake Eola fountain

The water-spouting Lake Eola fountain in downtown Orlando appears on the city's street signs--but the fountain hasn't spurted out any water since it was zapped by lightning in late August 2009.

The current fountain was built in 1957, replacing an earlier fountain that was constructed in 1912. The fountain was in need of some repairs prior to the lightning strike, but the estimated repairs to fix this latest damage has a $1 million price tag, and the city's insurance policy on the fountain has a $500,000.

The city is still deciding on the fate of the Lake Eola fountain, since budget cutbacks make it difficult to afford repairs at this time. The City Beautiful motto still remains, but as for the fountain--stay tuned.

Custodial drawn Mickeys

Since summer at least, we've seen Custodial CMs "paint" Mickey faces on the concrete using just water and bound up brooms. It's a cool effect.

This one is great for being a full Mickey body, and also for the artistry. I like this minor addition to the parks.




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Ski Season Opens December 5 On Mt. Mottarone

In just a few days, On December 5, Mt. Mottarone will open its ski resort for the 2009 - 2010 season. The opening, as always, coincides with the official beginning of the Christmas season in Italy. So far, the opening looks good to go. The first dustings of snow fell last week, and with the lower temperatures and rainy days of this week the summit of the mountain will surely be ready. We've talked about Mt. Mottarone in winter here before, but let's review again for the new season and all those of you who are coming here, or thinking of coming here, to ski. In addition, there are some new features at Mottarone to talk about.

Mottarone is a surprisingly large mountain which rises 4892 ft/1491 m. behind Stresa. The summit, where the ski runs begin, can be reached with the 18 minute ride on the cableway from Carciano, or, with the 20 minute drive up the private mountain road (there is a small fee required on the last part of this road). Last year saw the opening of a new, short ski lift which brings skiers and visitors from the cableway station at the top a bit higher, to the ski station, eliminating what previously had to be done on foot, with skis over shoulders.

Now let's look at the new features this year:

In the area of the mountain called Campetti Milanese a section has been enclosed and will now be used for the renting and riding of small motorized sleds and miniquads, providing an alternative activity for skiers, or perhaps for those who do not ski.

Attention has been given to the littlest guests this year; and Sunday afternoons beginning on December 28 will see special events just for them. In addition to the lesson groups already available for young skiers, Sundays they will be visited by, and have the opportunity to ski with Motty, the costumed blue bear mascot of Mt. Mottarone. Motty and his friends will have games, entertainment, and music exclusively for the children.

Another new initiative, from December 24, each Tuesday and Friday, inside of the daily journal Libero, look for a coupon which will give a 3 euro discount on the price of a daily skipass. Just clip the coupons and use them at any time during the season, bringing it with you when you purchase your ski pass.

Mt. Mottarone boasts 21 km of ski runs and 7 chair lifts taking skiers to 21 different trails. There are runs to please all levels, from beginner to expert. The mountain's unique position provides sunshine on all runs for much of each day, and the mountain is fully staffed, including many persons qualified to assist should medical aid be necessary.

There are several restaurants in which one can warm up, sit by a fire, eat comforting mountain food, and drink the specialty, fil de fer.

Tickets can be purchased at the cableway station, at the tourist office at the Stresa embarcadero, and at several tourist agency offices. For more information on Mt. Mottarone's winter skiing:

Here is the link for the winter cableway schedule: http://www.stresa-mottarone.it/winter_timetable_rates.htm

And the link to Mottarone's main ski Web site: http://www.mottaroneski.it/it/index.php

Don't forget to check at the station for any potential weather closings, and don't forget, it will be much colder at the top!

Visit the Web sites, and don't hesitate to write to us if you have any questions regarding your trip.

Motty is waiting to ski with you!

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party

It’s a magical night of special holiday entertainment including Castle Dreamlights!, an enchanting holiday parade, “Mickey’s Once Upon A Christmastime Parade,” featuring Santa Claus, a festive nighttime fireworks spectacular, Disney Character greetings, live stage shows and tasty treats on Main Street U.S.A.®, plus the most popular Magic Kingdom® attractions!

Castle Dreamslights!Cinderella Castle is transformed every night at the Magic Kingdom® Park during Castle Dreamlights! When Mickey and friends realize the castle isn’t decorated for the holidays, they enlist the help of Cinderella, the Prince, and even the Fairy Godmother! With all of their help, Cinderella Castle transforms into a glorious, wintry confection, twinkling in the sky!

DisneyQuest when slow

Usually DisneyQuest is busy on weekends. Not sure why it's manageable today. Someday I will soak up a whole day here just learning to play Dragon's Lair, the game that would have cost a fortune in my youth




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Fun Things to do in Orlando

AirTran to begin jet service between Orlando and K...
Holiday Activities at SeaWorld Orlando
Central Florida International Auto Show at Orange ...
Disney Parks Announces New Program Give a Day, Get...
Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol.
Sleigh rides featured as a special holiday treat a...
Liberty Tree Tavern
Aloha Friday at Royal Pacific
Holiday lights sparkle on Cinderella Castle
Thankgiving at Loews Hotels

LMA tires

On the Backlot Tour they no longer say anything about the tires for Lights Motors Action stage show. It's an automated spiel, so this is permanent.

They used to boast how often tires had to be changed, and on the tram they drove by a window that showed dozens and dozens of tires waiting to be used. That tire room is no longer visible because the window has been boarded up. One assumes they decided it was environmentally unfriendly to keep pointing out how many resources like rubber this show uses.


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Soup... Italian Style

Allora, we were in a restaurant, Giuseppe and I, and I was talking with our friend, the chef, about the soups on the menu. It’s cold days now, and I love soup. But I discovered in Italy, it was a bit more complicated than just soup. It seems I like... well.. here's how he described Italian soups to me:

Me: What's this one then?

Him: It’s just a broth, a brodo.

Me: Well, the brodo sounds delicious. And would be even better if it had some vegetables in it.

Him: That would be a good idea, but then it wouldn’t be a brodo anymore.

Me: No?

Him: Nope. Then it would be a minestra.

A brodo with veggies is a minestra.

And a brodo with pasta in it becomes a pastina.

Pastina is pasta inside of brodo.

Me: I see…

I’d call them all soup. Just soup.

Me: I like when my soup is full of things. More like a stew actually… Like if you took a stew and added more liquid, drop by drop, until it crosses some line of liquid-ness where it is a soup and not a stew, that’s what I like. With a nice crusty bread...

Him: Capisco, but if there is stuff like bread in the broth or the minestra, then it is zuppa.

Me: Si, soup.

Him: Nope. Zuppa.

Me: All soup. Just soup. Soup.

Me: You know what I like? Bisque, I love bisque. That has a different name too.. not soup.

Him: Hmm. What is it?

Me: It’s soup.

Him: What kind?

Me: It is quite thick, and cream-based,

Him: Oh, ok! Then it’s the passato here on the menu! Like a zuppa, but thick with cream and things in it.

Me: Si, and it is usually made with seafood things… lobster bisque per esempio. Or shrimp or crab bisque. What you do is blend it all very smooth so that…

Him: Wait , wait… If you blend it, then it is not a passato. Then it’s the vellutata. It means velvet.

Me: Vellutata. Ok, well, I love vellutata, and that's a perfect name for it. We sometimes put small pieces of bread or crackers in it...

Him: Don’t put too many. Or it will become a zuppa again.

Me: Of course. Foolish of me.

Him: The word is from inzuppare… to put things in liquid to absorb. That’s where zuppa comes from.

Me: Well cat my dog…I always thought zuppa meant soup.

Zuppa.

Zupp.

Zoop.

Soup.

And here, to clarify the subject, are some photos I found to illustrate the different types of Italian soups:

Brodo di Carne

Minestra

Pastina in Brodo


Zuppa di Pesce

Passato di Pomodoro

Vellutata di Marroni

Ti piacciono queste minestre? Quale tipo preferisci?
Do you like these soups? Which do you prefer?

Thanks to all the Italian recipe sites where I found these appetizing images.

Can I Rent a Car for my 20 Yearl Old Son?

My son is 20 years old. Can I rent a car for him? If so, which rental company in Houston, Texas

Sadly, no... you can't rent a car for anyone.... you can reserve a car for someone, but not rent it. Whoever shows up to pick up a car must show a valid drivers license and credit card in their own name. They must meet the age requirement for the rental... between 21 and 25 depending on the agency. If you rented the car, your son would have to sign on as an additional driver. Additional drivers must meet the same requirements as the renter and complete and sign an additional driver form at the counter. Your son's age would disqaulify him to rent or drive a rental car.

I checked into rent a wreck, which often has a lower minimum age. Their website states:

"Usually, Rent-A-Wreck requires renters to be at least 18 years old, but some locations may require a minimum age of 25 years. For consumers under 25, a credit card is usually required for payment and the rental rate may be higher. Please contact the individual Rent-A-Wreck car rental location for their specific age policies."

I checked, but rent a wreck only has one location in Texas; it's in Clear Lake. Sorry I couldn't be of more help, but thanks for your question.

AirTran to begin jet service between Orlando and Key West December 17

Beginning Thursday, Dec. 17, Florida residents and visitors can take advantage of AirTran Airways' nonstop jet service between Orlando and Key West. The AirTran flights, to be offered four times per week, will inaugurate the first scheduled service to Key West by a major low-cost carrier.

AirTran plans to use 137-passenger Boeing 737-700 aircraft for the Orlando-Key West route. In addition to nonstop Orlando flights, AirTran is to offer direct same-plane service from Atlanta and convenient connections in Orlando and Atlanta to destinations around the AirTran Airways network.

Flights are scheduled Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday. Departures from Orlando International Airport are set for 11:30 a.m. with arrivals at Key West International Airport at 12:40 p.m. Return flights to Orlando are scheduled to depart Key West at 1:30 p.m. and arrive in Orlando at 2:40 p.m.

One-way coach fares between Key West and Orlando are to begin at $119 per person plus taxes and fees. For more information and to book a flight, visit www.airtran.com.

Less food, same price

Columbia Harbour House reduced portions some time ago (see the nuggets), but I now see that the tuna sandwich suddenly comes with no fries. You get a bag of chips instead. Because the price didn't decrease, it's fair to actually call this a stealth price increase (you now have to spend more to get the same food).




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Favorite Quotations -- Thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving From Stresa Sights To All!

Yes, Thanksgiving is mostly about the food... and the shopping. But we also do pause to be thankful, to appreciate what we have, the people that we have. And we make certain that they know they are appreciated. Here's wishing everyone a very happy holiday, whether you are celebrating today where you live or not. Please take a moment to be thankful, and not just today, but always.

the photo was taken on my street in West Chester, on a recent beautiful autumn day

Holiday Activities at SeaWorld Orlando

The Polar Express Experience
A multi-sensory adventure to the North Pole. Based on the popular book and movie.
Now through January 3 (daily)

Winter Wonderland on Ice
An all-new ice-skating spectacular at Bayside Stadium.
November 27 through January 3 (select nights)

Clyde and Seamore’s Countdown to Christmas
· All-new comedy featuring SeaWorld’s sea lion stars, Clyde and Seamore.
· November 27 through January 3 (select nights)

A Sesame Street Christmas
All-new show Sesame Street holiday show featuring Elmo, Big Bird and other Sesame Street friends
November 27 through January 3 (select days)

Shamu Christmas … Miracles
Spectacular killer whale show, just for the holidays
November 27 through January 3 (select nights)

New Year’s Eve at SeaWorld
· New Year’s Eve extravaganza featuring pop, Latin and swing music. Fireworks display at midnight.
· December 31

Makahiki Christmas Luau
All-new dinner show celebrates the holidays with an aloha style.
Now through January 3 (reservations suggested; park admission not required – call1.888.800.5447 for reservations)

Central Florida International Auto Show at Orange County Convention Center

Celebrate Thanksgiving Day weekend at the Central Florida International Auto Show 2010 at the Orange County Convention Center on International Drive in Orlando. The show kicks off at noon on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 26 and last through Sunday, November 29. Sunday is also Kids Day, where children 12 and under are admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult.

Show hours are Thursday, from noon to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Admission to the event is $9 for adults, $5 for military with ID, seniors, students with ID and $3 for children ages 7-12. During each day of the event, children ages six and younger are admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult.

Visitors will also get a free one-year subscription to Motor Trend Magazine with each online ticket order or box office purchase.

Disney Parks Announces New Program Give a Day, Get a Disney Day

Donald and Daisy Duck help Miami residents paint a mural Sept. 29, 2009 during a "HandsOn Miami" volunteer effort at the Miami River in Miami's Little Havana area. More than 200 community residents volunteered to clean up the river's shoreline and revitalize the area. It was all part of the announcement to launch Disney Parks’ new program for 2010 called “Give a Day, Get a Disney Day.” To celebrate volunteerism, Disney Parks will give a free one-day admission to a Walt Disney World Resort or Disneyland Resort theme park to 1 million people in the U.S. and Canada who perform volunteer service with a participating organization starting Jan. 1, 2010

Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol.

Theatre Downtown rings in the holiday season with a traditional telling of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol.

Production dates are November 27 thru December 21.
Performances are Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays at 8:00 PM
Sunday Matinees are Nov. 29th, Dec. 6, 13 & 20
Pre Show caroling begins 1/2 hour prior to curtain.

Advanced tickets are $18.00/$15.00 for students/seniors
For reservations call 407-841-0083.
Theatre Downtown accepts Visa/MC
Theatre Downtown is located at 2113 N. Orange Avenue
(the corner of Orange & Princeton-exit 85 from I 4-then 2 blocks east)
website is: www.theatredowntown.net

Online Car Rental. Less to worry about, now!

With the world wide web in our hands, car rental has become so easy that all the services are just a click away! Gone are the days when one gets off the plane at a new city, and goes about inquiring about the availability of car rental services. Online car rental services have made traveling around a new place unbelievably simple, especially if you’re on a business trip or with your family on a vacation.
The procedures for online car rentals are awfully simple. After you decide on your destination, just go on the internet and type the city’s name and ‘Car Hire’ after it. You’ll be sure to find numerous results offering the best and economical service for you. All you need to do is fill up some details regarding your stay and some personal information. You can even select what car or model you want to drive in your destination city! The payment can be made by credit card or visa. Online Car Hire is rather a boon for the frequent travelers. It makes planning and the stay very easy, as many considers moving around the most difficult when they are in a new place. So, you have less to worry about now!

Some great benefits of car hire

Hiring or renting a car makes so many things easy; especially when you don’t have to shell out cash every single time you go out, on those really expensive cabs! When you arrange a car hire for your destination city, you can enjoy some great benefits like these.
Benefits of Car Hire
Car hire gives you absolute independence and flexibility – You can move around anytime you want, to anywhere!
You save a lot of money on traveling that takes place around the city, especially when the city is known to have a high cost of living, like Paris and London.
You can always hire a car according to your budget and family that comes along – when you want to spend lavishly on your vacation, you can afford a nice SUV to drive around or when you’re with family, a minivan would be very comfortable.
A benefit today in Car Hire is that it can be booked online. You can choose your car type, book it for the number of days you’re staying there and pay online using a credit card. And, all you need to do when you reach to your destination city is that you’ll just have to go pick up the car!
You can more time for yourself on your holiday by enjoying these benefits of Car Hire.

Airline car hires

Airline car hire is a one stop traveler’s solution. When a person goes to a different country or to a different city, it is not possible for him to know everything about the place. For example if a person is a native of France and when he or she goes to Australia, the might not know which is a good place to eat or where to stay.
A very important requirement for a tourist is a means of travel when they are in a new country. There are several car hire services that are available. For this Airline car hire services are available. The term airline car hire service refers to the airline company providing their customers with Car Hire services. This is a very novel concept and more and more airline companies are beginning to adopt this concept. The aim of every airline company is to serve their customers better and the concept of airline Car Hire is just another way to do so.

Holiday cups

WDW has started using holiday wax soda cups for the small (but not large) sodas.




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Best Place for Discount Car Rental

Which is the better place to get a discount car rental? Are the prices better at the airport or renting at a rental site that is downtown or in a surburb?

If you're looking at using a discount code, both airport locations and off airport locations generally accept them, and give the same amount of discount for them.

If you're looking at internet deals and specials that you see advertised online, some are restricted to either airport or off airport, while some specials may be available at both types of locations.

Generally, you tend to get a better total on a car rental rate at an off airport location, because there are (most of the time) less surcharges. The majority of airport car rental locations are charge a concession fee, by the airport, for doing business there. This fee is charged to the customer, by the car rental company, and paid to the aiport. Such a fee is know by many names; commonly airport fee, airport concession fee, airport concession recovery fee, location surcharge, location fee, etc.

Hope this helps!

Sleigh rides featured as a special holiday treat at Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground

This year, Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground at Walt Disney World in Florida is offering sleigh rides through the secluded beauty of the 700-acre backwoods resort. From Nov. 29-Dec. 30, 2009, four adults – or two adults and three small children – can climb into a shiny, fire engine-red sleigh, decked out with garland and twinkling holiday lights, and take a relaxing, 25-minute sojourn into the lush forest. Cost is $60 per sleigh. For reservations and more information, guests can call 407/WDW-PLAY.

Natale 2009 a Stresa

It seems that a lot of my readers will be in Stresa during the winter; many over the Christmas and New Year holidays. Lucky, lucky, lucky people... The Italian Christmas season officially begins on December 8, on the Festa dell'Immacolata Concezione della Beata Vergine Maria , and it ends on January 6, on the day called L'Epifania. Natale in Stresa looks to be wonderful, with a very rich program of events planned including concerts, special masses, special markets for food and crafts, and shows for the children. And it wouldn't be Christmas here without traditional bonfires and free hot chocolates and vin brules. Here's a partial list of activities; check the activity calendar on the right for specific days and times if you'll be here, and keep your eyes open for other events not listed here.

Concerts: Throughout the month of December look for many free classical concerts at several of the local churches. Of special note would be the December 7 concert in tiny, centuries old Chiesa San Vittore on Isola Pescatore. Throughout the month there are also several concerts in the parrocchial churches in the villages surrounding Stresa. A wonderful way to hear beautiful music, see some of the smaller churches, and get into the Christmas mood.

Bonfires: A large bonfire will start off the season on the lungolago, in front of the Hotel Astoria, on the evening of December 8. There will be free hot drinks.

Presepio: Continuing the very successful tradition, the presepi, nativity scenes, will once again be on display all around Isola Bella, as well as in various other places around the city. Here's a link to some beautiful presepi photos from Natale 2008. This year, also look for a very special presepio in the Spazio Luparia gallery, by artist Giuseppe Loda.

Foods: Take advantage of all the free hot chocolates and vin brule' to keep warm while walking around Stresa. And of course enjoy some panettone and pandoro. Last year I wrote a bit about the history of these cakes, take a look at the link if you'd like to learn a bit more about them.

It's not brutally cold in Stresa during December. It's just cold enough to enjoy buying scarves in the marketplace and wrap up in them, to sip hot chocolates, to wrap your hands around a warm vin brule', and to really feel the Christmas spirit.

Oh, here's one more thing you can't forget... The hot chocolates given out free around town are more of what I would call the American version. But at least once, be sure you sit down inside in one of the bars for a true Italian cioccolata calda; there is nothing like it...

Liberty Tree Tavern

A Magic Kingdom tradition, the Liberty Tree Tavern restaurant is located in the Liberty Square area just steps away from the famed Hall of Presidents. Patterned after an 18th century New England inn, guests are greeted by servers in period costumes and are invited to dine on traditional American fare.

Lunch entrees include the New England Pot Roast, a Pilgrims' Feast with roast turkey and herb bread dressing, and a generous portion of Colony Salad. Kids' meals are served on a Mickey ears plate (featuring slightly more modern pizza and burgers). For dinner, guests can order an "all you care care to enjoy" turkey dinner served family style.

With a large hearth in the entryway, visitors will feel welcome in the Liberty Tree Tavern. The front porch is also an ideal spot to view Disney character parades and the nearby riverboat attraction.

Aloha Friday at Royal Pacific

Holiday lights sparkle on Cinderella Castle

Shimmering lights illuminate Cinderella Castle in Magic Kingdom during the holidays at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. The Magic Kingdom icon is bathed in more than 200,000 tiny white lights that add a special sparkle to the season

Thankgiving at Loews Hotels

Trattoria del Porto

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel

Enjoy a Thanksgiving Day feast in Trattoria del Porto, featuring carving, pasta and dessert stations, champagne and more!

Entertainment includes face painter, balloonist, strolling musicians and Universal Characters.

Adults: $46.00
Children (age 3-12): $23.00
Champagne included in adult price
Children under 3 complimentary

Noon-8pm

Click here to view menu
For dining reservations and more information, call 407-503-DINE (3463)
____________________________________________________________________
Islands Dining Room

Loews Royal Pacific Resort

Savor a scrumptious Thanksgiving Day buffet featuring carving stations, sushi and stir fry stations, raw bar, champagne and a dessert extravaganza!

Entertainment includes Universal Characters, face painter, balloon twister and hula dancers.

Adults: $43.95
Children (age 3-12): $17.95
Champagne included in adult price
Children under 3 complimentary

Noon-9pm

Click here to view our menu

For dining reservations and more information, call 407-503-DINE (3463)____________________________________________________________________________________
The Kitchen

Hard Rock Hotel

Bring the family for a rockin' Thanksgiving Day in The Kitchen featuring carving stations, seafood bar and chef's pasta station, champagne and dessert.

Kids get to meet Universal Characters and the Magic Man! Other entertainment includes face painter and balloon artist.

Adults: $43.95
Children (age 3-12): $17.95
Children under 3 complimentary

Noon-9pm

Click here to view our menu
For dining reservations and more information, call 407-503-DINE (3463)

Celebrate Thanksgiving at Rosen Hotels

Rosen Centre/Cafe Gauguin

9840 International Drive

Thanksgiving Day Champagne Brunch

Buffet Hours: 11:30 am - 6 pm

Price: Adults $39.95 plus tax and gratuity, children ages 4 - 12 $16.95 plus tax and gratuity
Reservations: (407) 996-9840 ext. 3593 recommended, but not required

Extensive Champagne Thanksgiving Day Buffet with unlimited champagne and mimosas featuring traditional favorites such as Tom Turkey, candied sweet yams and cornbread dressing to honey glazed ham and peppered beef to a pasta bar and stations featuring seafoods such as spiced shrimp and smoked salmon, hand-carved meats and breakfast favorites like omelets and waffles. Buffet is topped off with an array of sweet indulgences from pumpkin and mince meat pies to tarts and French pastries to a chocolate fountain. www.rosencentre.com
____________________________________________________________________
Rosen Shingle Creek/Café Osceola

9939 Universal Blvd.

Thanksgiving Day Buffet

Buffet Hours: Adults $55.95 plus tax and gratuity, children ages 4 - 12 $24.95 plus tax and gratuity, 25% Florida resident’s discount

Price: 11:30am to 7:00 pm

Reservations: (407) 996-9770 recommended, but not required

Extensive Thanksgiving Day Buffet from traditional fare such as roasted turkey and pork tenderloin, truffle butter whipped potatoes, cranberry chutney and roasted pumpkin bisque to California Sushi roll and smoked salmon and bayside shrimp, grilled Caribbean shrimp skewers to a pasta station with spiced pumpkin ravioli and omelets and Belgium waffles. Finale includes an extravaganza of desserts including a chocolate fountain and pastries, muffins and breads from award-winning pasty chef David Ramirez and his team. www.rosenshinglecreek.com

Antonio Rosmini

Il Collegio Rosmini, on the hill behind the city of Stresa, as seen from Lago Maggiore.

This week there was a special mass held in Stresa, at la Chiesa del Ss. Crocifisso at the Collegio Rosmini. The mass was in celebration of the second anniversary of the beatification of Antonio Rosmini, which took place on November 18, 2007, after it was authorized by Pope Benedetto XVI.

This is the interior of the sanctuary at la Chiesa del Ss. Crocifisso at the College.

It's impossible to walk around Stresa without noticing the name Antonio Rosmini, and wondering, maybe, who was this man who is featured so prominently here. There are streets and buildings named for him, a statue of him along the lungolago, and of course, the imposing college that sits on a hilltop on the southern side of town. Born into a wealthy and respected family of Roverato in 1797, Rosmini decided at an early age to enter the priesthood and was ordained in 1821. He studied much philosophy, and wrote much on the subject, but by the 1840s his beliefs and his writings had aroused great opposition in the church, and many became forbidden readings. Rosmini, confident in his convictions, retired. He moved to Stresa, where he had already established a boarding school and center of education, thanks to the very generous donations of Anna Maria Bolongaro, a wealthy and devout Stresiana who was a friend and follower. He would live in Stresa for the rest of his life. During his years in Stresa he taught his beliefs to his followers, who are called Rosminians. The Rosminians were both priests and non-clergy who believed in his ideas, and they followed his practice of educating youth, preaching, and performing works of universal charity. Before he died, in 1855, he did have the satisfaction of knowing that his questionable works had been declared free from censure.

What were his teachings that were so controversial? Rosmini devoted his studies to the old questions asked by many of the ancient philosophers, those of the origins, truths, and certainties of our ideas, and what, in essense, our human sense of 'being' is, where it derives from.

Clearly, the perception of Rosmini's works and his teachings have changed much in the 150 years since his death. So much so that on June 26, 2006 Pope Benedict XVI signed a decree recognizing Rosmini's heroic virtues, declaring him to be Venerable. Then followed the beatification in November 2007. Should any miracles be attributed to Rosmini and should they be proven, he will become a saint. In the meantime, members of his parish are permitted to pray to him.

Today, the Collegio Rosmini in Stresa is a world renowned religious, cultural, and educational center. Inside, Rosmini's remains are interred in a crypt in the Chiesa dal Ss. Crocifisso. His bones are watched over by statues of the saints from the Lago Maggiore area. In a side chapel is a statue of Rosmini, kneeling with a book, sculpted by Vincenzo Vela of Ticino.

Do you like looking at different churches? Here's are a couple of other posts written about some:

Chiesa di Santo Gervasio e Protasio -- Baveno's Parish Church
Chiesa di San Remigio -- The Place I Didn't Go

Or take a look at the entire category here.

Thanksgiving Holiday at Rosen Plaza Café Matisse

Rosen Plaza/Café Matisse

9700 International Drive

Thanksgiving Day Buffet

Buffet Hours: 11:00 am - 8 pm

Price: Adults $31.95 plus tax and gratuity, children ages 4 - 12 $15.95 plus tax and gratuity;

Bring in this listing for $3 off each adult

Reservations: (407) 996-0256 recommended, but not required

Grand Thanksgiving Holiday Buffet featuring a traditional hot buffet of Mom’s favorites such as sliced roasted turkey with cranberry sauce, sausage cornbread dressing, sweet potato cakes, holiday pot roast with pan gravy, Virginia ham basted in brown sugar and serving stations with seafood selections, chilled salads and antipastos, soups, a fruit and granola bar and extensive dessert station with pumpkin pie and pumpkin pound cake, NY cheesecake and chocolate mousse cake. For parties of six or more, the restaurant offers their traditional turkey carved tableside. rosenplaza.com/specials/thanksgiving_2008.asp

Coming Soon - Content, Content, Content

I'll be refocusing attention on this blog shortly. Sorry for abandoning it (more or less) in recent months.

I've been busy with a book project or two (one comes out in late December, probably after Xmas... more info on that soon).

But that's no excuse. I hereby pledge to update more frequently, and content-rich. On weekends, I may start using BlogPress Lite to update from my iPhone (with pics?) ... does anyone out there have experience with this and words of wisdom to share on that app?

I'll probably do a hefty dose of "new to me" and "declining by degrees" observations if the app works as advertised. We'll see!

Credit Card Coverage for Rental Car Insurance

I have ldw through my American Express card and don't have personal automobile insurance. What other insuances or extras should I buy from the rental company?

Car rental companies are required by law, in most states, to carry basic third party public liability and property damage insurance on their vehicles, up to the minimum limits required by state law, this means you are covered even if you have no personal automobile insurance. (I beleive that California and Texas may be exceptions) This covers you in the event of an accident for injuries and/or damage to other people, property and
vehicles. (the ldw is what covers the rental car itself)

Just double check with your rental car company of choice to see if basic liability coverage is included.

The car rental companies may offer (or try to sell you) a Supplemental or Additional Liability insurance (keywords here being supplemental and additional). The purchases of these coverages merely increase your
coverage, beyond what is required by state law... you're already covered for the minimum. You certainly may purchase it if you wish, but it is not a requirement.

Hope this helps.

See Also:

Car Rental Insurance Overview

Personal Auto Insurance Coverage

CDW and LDW Coverages

Credit Card Coverages

Personal Protection Offers

Liability Insurance

Star Wars

Light Up UCF November 20 – January 8

Yes, there is ice skating in Central Florida—this Friday, November 20, Light Up UCF kicks off 50 nights of music, lights and ice. Orlando’s largest outdoor ice rink will be open to public skating and private parties.

Highlights of Light Up UCF include an ice skating with skate rental included with the purchase of a skating ticket. Visitors can also climb up to the top of Mt. Glide and slide down a 100 ft. ice luge. The University of Central Florida campus will be bathed in the warm glow of Christmas lights every night at 7:00 p.m. with 75,000 twinkling lights pulsing in time to everyone’s favorite holiday tunes.

Want to see your favorite Christmas movies outdoors? Light Up UCF includes a holiday film festival on a two-story screen. Some of the films include Home Alone, The Santa Clause, A Christmas Story, Elf, and many more. Other attractions include live performances by the UCF Knights marching band, the Radio City Music Hall Rockettes (tickets for the performance at the UCF Arena must be purchased separately) plus a ferris wheel and carousel ride sponsored by McDonald’s.

For a full schedule and ticket prices, visit Lightupucf.com.

Highland Manor Thanksgiving Day Brunch Buffet

Highland Manor Thanksgiving Day Brunch Buffet

Thursday, Nov. 26, 2009

11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

604 East Main Street, Apopka, Fla 32703

Join friends and family for a savory, southern style Thanksgiving Day Brunch Buffet at Highland Manor. The menu features favorites from maple brined turkey and pineapple glazed ham to highland cornbread stuffing, roasted pumpkin and chestnut soup and mashed sweet potatoes topped with roasted apples. An assortment of sweet temptations are available for dessert such as sticky buns with pecans or pumpkin and sweet potato pies. Reservations recommended, but not required. www.highlandmanorapopka.com

Price: Adults $30, children ages 5-12 $15 and children under 5 are free. Add unlimited mimosas for $5 or Bloody Mary’s for $10.

Celebrating the 2009 Holiday Season

Celebration Suites at Old Town wants to share one of Orlando’s secrets with you: Almost all of the holiday festivities in Orlando have already begun! Don’t wait until the last minute to book your holiday vacation. Stay earlier and beat the crowds! The Orlando weather provides the perfect holiday escape for your family, friends or group.

Gaylord Palms’ ICE! is already underway, and only one mile away from your spacious and affordable suite when you stay at Celebration Suites at Old Town. Less than two miles away, Walt Disney World Resort is already celebrating the holidays with The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at the Magic Kingdom. With complimentary transportation provided from Celebration Suites to all of the major Orlando theme parks, why not get in on the fun a bit earlier this year?

Celebration Suites offers suites that sleep up to six people from just $42.95 per night that are conveniently located next door to the Old Town amusement complex. This hotel is home to two heated pools, a fitness studio, volleyball court, basketball court, game room, and playground. Room service is provided by Tex Mex Express and Flipper’s Pizza, and with the wide selection of shopping, dining, rides and nightlife next door, this hotel will quickly become your family’s favorite holiday destination! Celebration Suites Reservations

Did I get the Best Car Rental Rate?

I recently rented a Kia ION for a three day weekend rate of 153.00 with a 300.00 deeposite refundable apon return of the vehicle. Could I have gotten a lower rate/better deal?

I sure wish there was a way to find out!

Car rental rates can vary by company, city, location, car size, dates, etc. Even if I knew what city you rented in, what location you rented from, what discount code (if any) you used and what company you rented from, it's impossible to go back and check prices for dates that have already passed.

I wish I could answer your question, but all I can tell you is that the next time you rent a car

1. Compare multiple companies
2. Check for discount codes,coupons and specials
3. Compare rates from booking sites (travelocity, kayak, Orbitz, Priceline, Hotwire, etc.) as well as rates from the rental car company websites directly.
4.Book as far in advance as you can, and continue to check back, if possible to see if the rates go down closer to the rental day... if so.. rebook! :)

If you do these things you can be confident that you have probably gotten the best deal available!

Hope this helps

Orlando Museum of Art Festival of Trees

The Festival of Trees 2009 at the Orlando Museum of Art, an annual holiday event since 1986, continues this week through Sunday, November 22. The Festival of Trees is orchestrated by the Council of 101 to benefit the Orlando Museum of Art. For nine days in November, the museum is transformed into a winter wonderland, with professionally decorated trees, wreaths and gingerbread houses (more like gingerbread communities, in some cases) which are available for purchase.

Annual highlights include the Gingerbread Village, Toyland Town and Christmas Village. Children can enjoy arts and crafts, shoppers can get a jump start on their Christmas shopping at the Holiday Boutique and Holiday Garden, and all visitors can enjoy live entertainment provided by local area choirs, schools, dance groups, orchestras, a caroling company, a ballet company and individual performers. The Festival Café will also be open for lunch or refreshments.

The Festival of Trees 2009 is presented by PNC Bank from Saturday, November 14 throught Sunday, November 22. The hours are 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. with extended hours until 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 19 and Saturday, November 21. Ticket prices are $10 for adults and $6 for children ages 3 – 11.

Soaring

Sports car hire for a fun day of driving

Gone are the days that one could only hire a boring sedan with sports car hire services on the market today. Everyone wants to take a spin in a fancy car once in a while and to fulfill that purpose car hire companies now are making fancy fast vehicles available for hire. Hire a good looking quick car for a day and take a relaxed drive around the city streets absorbing all the admiring glances at your hired steed for the day. Or take the beast far away from civilization, into the wild twisty mountain roads for a fun filled driving session.

Sports cars are great crowd puller. Hence you should hire a fancy looking car for that night out with your date or to a party or a glamorous event where the paparazzi will be present. Arriving in style could not be harder with some fancy keys hanging out of your pocket. Take your girl on a date for the ride of her life in a shiny fast sports car or if the both of you have a fancy for wind in hair motoring, hire a convertible sports car and drive through the countryside. Sports car hire services are here to serve your every fantasy and with these gorgeous beasts for hire, turn yourself into the god of motoring.

One way car hire services to take a quick shuttle

One way car hire services are available for those who need to make a trip in one direction, but don't intend to drive back to the departure city. There are many options for one way car hire services that are easy and comfortable to use. One way car hires usually cost a little more than regular rental as the car hire service has to get the car back to the original base, but this can be seen as a trade-off for time saved in returning the car where the person may have chosen some other path of return. One way car hires are great if you are a traveler who has to get to one place urgently but may not be returning in the immediate future, or intend to use some other mode of transport for the return journey.

Travelers who wish to do a cross country trip might consider a one way service. Similarly, tourists who want to visit several places and towns and do not wish to trace back their path to the departure destination would prefer a one way car service as it beats the hassle of having to return. This will allow them to visit other places instead after which they could drive back to the final destination or catch a flight.

Get a performance car hire for the ride of your life

Performance cars are stunning pieces of machinery. The engineering ingenuity that goes into them to bring out their beastly performance is such a mind boggling feat for many. Not everyone can afford to buy a performance car as clearly performance comes at a cost. Hence it is quite impossible for a layman to even dream of driving a performance car. To tackle this, now performance car hire is possible. Rent out your dream machine for a day or even more and take it down that stunning twisty mountain road or arrow straight highway. GT performance cars are great mile munchers and will be fantastic companions on a cross country drive.

Even if one cannot these for long durations, one can hire Performance cars for a few hours or a day. Take your friend or wife or your girlfriend for the single male, out on a spin for an evening. An enchanting night out can begin with a dizzying ride in a dazzling performance car. An open top performance car would be great for that romantic night out as you drive along the roads, with the dark sky and twinkling stars for company. Hire a performance car today and live out your dream!

Festival of the Masters

The 34th Annual Festival of the Masters is on the way celebrating fine arts,food and entertainment at Downtown Disney at the Walt Disney World Resort. We had an exciting day viewing an array of magnificent artwork and showcasing many talents. Put this on your list to see when you return to Orlando Florida come see and enjoy the art and atmosphere of Downtown Disney. Memories will last a lifetime. Visit Festival of the Masters

Celebrity chef charity event at Ritz Carlton Orlando on Dec. 3

The late Jerome Girardot (1978 – 2009) is best remembered by his friends, family and fellow chocolatiers as saying, “Anything you can see or imagine I can create in chocolate.” To honor Girardot’s legacy to the culinary world, the Jerome Girardot Fund is hosting A Night of Extreme Taste, which will be held at the Ritz Carlton in Orlando, FL on Dec. 3, 2009.

Proceeds of the event will establish a fund for Jerome’s young children, ensuring their education as they grow. Tickets are available online and group table reservations and special room rates are available.

The nonprofit fund is hosting unique events in three exciting cities: Orlando, Chicago and Washington D.C. Each event will feature more than 24 celebrity chefs who will recreate some of their most famous dishes for guests to savor, complemented by fine wine and spirits. The grand dessert buffet will be prepared by some of the nation’s most talented pastry chefs. Every guest will receive a box of chocolate truffles, exclusively created by four of the industry’s most renowned chocolatiers, which includes Robert J. Ciborowski, executive chef for the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort; Norman Van Aken, who oversees “Norman’s” at the Ritz-Carlton Orlando; Sean Woods, Executive Chef of The Ritz-Carlton Orlando; Mark Beaupre, Director of Food & Beverage and Executive Chef at the JW Marriott Orlando and many more.

For additional information, please send an email to the Jerome Girardot Fund, or visit the organization’s Web site at http://www.jeromegirardotfund.com/.

Inbox

This one was fun! A reader wrote with the following question:

Q: I am trying to locate a retailer that sells (Murano) Glass Miniature clowns in the centre of the town. If my memory serves me correct it had a corner frontage as well as looking onto a piaza. I am trying to locate it for further purchases.

A: I am almost certain that the shop you are describing is called Leone, the bookshop that is on the corner of Piazza Cadorna and Via P. Tomaso. I myself have bought some Murano glass jewelry and gifts there...

And I thought at this the question had been answered, until I received another mail saying:

I just realized this is not the shop as I do not recall it selling books/stationery, nor is it on a corner opposite a piazza.

I was at a loss for how to assist this writer further, as I'm not in Stresa at the moment, but we don't give up easily; my colleague in town went on a search for me, and we provided the writer with a photograph of Murano clowns in the window of the shop called Pessina, in Piazza Cadorna. We received this mail in return:

You have made my day as this is the shop!
I cannot thank you enough for all your efforts, your friends included.

YES!! 100% satisfaction... that's our goal, and we won't rest until we've succeeded.

Wine & Dine Walk featured at 2009 Children’s Miracle Network Classic

Chef Mickey poses next to a table of culinary masterpieces – including a light and tasty avocado and citrus salad with a five spice chicken wrap -- that will be featured Nov. 13-15, 2009 at the Children’s Miracle Network Classic as part of the PGA TOUR event's "Wine & Dine Walk." Spectators to the final PGA TOUR event of 2009 can sip, sample and savor elaborate dishes, unique wines and select beers along the fairways of Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course. (Garth Vaughan, photographer)

Past & Present Styles of Fashion for the Holidays at Highland Manor Apopka

Sun, Dec. 6, 2009

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Apopka ReStore presents its "Past & Present Styles of Fashion for the Holidays" held at Highland Manor Apopka.

Enjoy an afternoon of shopping, fashion and fun while helping raise funds for the ReStore. The show will feature three local boutiques, Em’z on 5th, The Secret Garden and Formally Yours. Shop the sponsors before the show from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Fashion show runs from 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Individual tickets are $35 per person and include lunch. Corporate tables seating 10 people are available for $500 which includes lunch and two glasses of wine per person. RSVP is required. For tickets and more information, call 407-880-8852 or 352-348-2404 or visit www.habitatapopkafl.org

Polk County Toys for Tots Drive at Fantasy of Flight

Fantasy of Flight is pleased to participate in Polk County's Toys for Tots toy drive. The attraction is offering each guest who donates a new, unwrapped toy $8 off a full-priced admission ticket (adult $29.95 or child ages 6-15 $14.95) or an annual pass (adult $69.95 or child ages 6-15 $39.95 ) for each donation, Mon., Nov. 9 – Sun., Dec. 13, 2009.

The donated toys must be presented at the attraction’s admissions counter to qualify for the discount. Not valid with any other offers, discounts or promotions. The Toys for Tots Train will be on display at Fantasy of Flight from Sun., Nov. 22 – Wed., Dec. 2, 2009. (Display schedule subject to change.) For more details, visit www.fantasyofflight.com or call 863-984-3500.

Do All Car Rental Companies Charge for an Extra Driver?

Do all rentals charge extra for a second driver? My sister and I are going to Hawaii for a month next Feb. (2010) We are both over 65.

Generally they all charge for a second driver. The only exception tends to be a spouse. Some may not charge for a spouse.

You may be able to get an additional driver fee waived with certain discounts. I've heard of people being able to get free additional drivers when using a AAA or AARP discount (if they're a member), but you would have to check with the individual car rental companies, as this wouldn't be something they would advertise on their websites. There also may be restrictions on who could be an additional driver.

Also, if you're unable to avoid the additional driver fee: when you are checking rates, make sure to check for the additional driver fee for the period of the rental. Some companies will charge you a per day fee for the full period; some companies may have a maximum charge that will be cheaper.

Hope this helps!

The Princess and the Frog riverboat celebration

Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom theme park is putting on the finishing touches on the Liberty Square Riverboat, an authentic three-tiered paddlewheel steamship that circles the Magic Kingdom lagoon with a scenic half-mile tour of Frontierland, Liberty Square and Tom Sawyer island. In preparation for the upcoming animated film, The Princess and the Frog, the Liberty Square Riverboat is celebrating New Orleans style.

You don’t have to ride the riverboat to appreciate the colorful Mardi Gras inspired costumes and traditional Dixieland jazz that are a part of this musical celebration. With The Princess and the Frog premiering in theaters everywhere on December 11, there are sure to be more Princess Tiana sightings at the Magic Kingdom, as well as other areas of Walt Disney World.

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort

A ‘PICTURE POSTCARD’ VIEW (circa 1988): When Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort opened in 1988, it created the backdrop for a “postcard” view of Walt Disney World as a golf resort – the palm-lined entrance and the red-shingled, white clapboard-sided elegance of the new resort in the background, with golfers on the 17th tee of the Magnolia golf course in the foreground.

Sea World Orlando Tickets

This holiday season, families and friends can celebrate the holidays like never before at SeaWorld Orlando. Guests can take an exciting trip to the North Pole aboard The Polar Express Experience. Plus, enjoy three all-new shows:

• Winter Wonderland on Ice, an ice-skating spectacular
• Clyde and Seamore’s Countdown to Christmas, a holiday-themed comedy
• A Sesame Street Christmas, even the little ones can celebrate the spirit of the season with Elmo, Big Bird and other Sesame Street friends

More Seaworld Orlando Vacation Packages

Ernest Hemingway's Stresa

Hemingway rowing in front of Hotel des Iles Borromees.

I've started rereading Ernest Hemingway's A Farewell to Arms. It's been a long, long time since I've read the classic, and that was certainly long before I had ever heard of an Italian city named Stresa, or would know how it would come to figure into my life. It's well known that Stresa is the setting for one portion of the novel; but what isn't as known is how semi-autobiographical the story is, and how Hemingway's own experiences in Stresa shaped those that he wrote about.

In 1918, the 19-year-old Ernest Miller Hemingway was an American Red Cross Volunteer, driving an ambulance in Italy. After being injured at Fossalta di Piave, in July 1918, he was sent to the Red Cross hospital in Milan. There, he had hundreds of pieces of schrapnel removed from his legs, and during his recuperation, he fell in love with his nurse, Agnes von Kurowsky. By September, Ernest was well enough to be given a 10-day pass from the hospital, and decided to go to Stresa to regain his strength in the fresh air of the lake. He wore the ring that Agnes had given to him. He was traveling with another ambulance driver, Johnny Miller, and they stayed in Room 106 at the Hotel des Iles Borromees, a first-floor suite that overlooks the gardens in front of the hotel and looks to the islands in the gulf beyond. He wrote to his parents: "I'm up here at Stresa a little resort on Lake Maggiore one of the most beautiful of the Italian Lakes." While there, young Ernest was known to enjoy martinis at the bar, and to play billiards with Conte Emanuele Greppi. He also became friendly with Bianca Bellia, daughter of Piervincenzo Bellia, who was one of the wealthiest men in Italy at that time. It is known that they took a trip up the Mottorone tram together, to the top of Mt. Mottarone, to take in a view of the lake, the lakes surrounding it, and the Swiss Alps to their north.

It's clear to see the many parallels between this trip of Ernest's and the setting as used in A Farewell to Arms. The major difference, of course, is that while this trip was a pleasant diversion for Ernest, for Frederick Henry the area is gray and cold and muddy, and it marks the beginning of the tragic end to the story of him and the nurse Catherine Barclay.

A Farewell to Arms was published in 1929. Hemingway returned to Stresa fondly, saying that it felt like home to him, and staying always in suite 106. There are many photos of Hemingway in the hotel; at the bar, and in a small fishing boat in the lake among them. The influence on the book is obvious; what is interesting to me is how Hemingway was able to transform the beauty he himself experienced in Stresa into the tragic setting of the story. What I like to remember, however, is how much Hemingway enjoyed it here, for the same reasons that we all do.

This is but one fascinating footnote in Stresa's long history; Perhaps you'll enjoy these others also:

The Story of L'Idrovolante
Isola Bella, Beautiful Island -- A Little Background
Or read through all of the History posts here.

All images courtesy of the Comune di Stresa.