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Tuesday, August 31, 2010

car rental

Heading for a vacation? Then why not opt for car rental to make the most of your vacation. Car rental offer you great freedom and mobility to match your pace. Hence you can enjoy the place of your interest to the fullest. Commuting from one place of interest to the other can be very inconvenient, expensive and time consuming otherwise. Having car rental make lot of sense and the movement becomes relatively easy. Car rental turn out to be much cheaper than using any other modes of transportation for commuting and also saves lot of time.

Regular travelers always opt for car rental since they know the worth of it. If you are planning a travel now, then don’t think twice. Go ahead and get the car rental booked for your desired destination. There are numerous car rental agencies that offer their services worldwide. Finding car rental for your desired destination is relatively easy. You will find numerous portals offering car rental services on the Internet. These portals have all the updated information and the deals being offered by various reputed to local car rental agencies around the world. All you have to do is enter the city or towns and the whole list and the schemes on car rental will be displayed to you related to that destination. These portals offers free services and can be accessed by surfers around the world. You can even book online through one of these portals without paying any extra money. These portals have certainly made life easier for many of the travelers around the world and are very handy when you are searching for car rental and the deals for any place under the sun.

Pick car rental which suit you most for your desired destination. Booking in advance will avail you discounts and ensure the choice of your car you would like to have for your vacation.

Make your trip to a fullest trip by opting for car rental.

August In Stresa -- Summer Foods

This plate of grilled mixed vegetables was from Caffe Bolongaro, in Stresa, and I ate it while listening to the blues band play. Just the perfect thing for a warm summer evening.

August has ended, and I've posted a little about food fairs, and a little about buffets in hotels, but I realize I've been forgetful about taking photos of my own meals recently. And in addition, being summer, I find I've eaten more lightly than usual.

But of course I eat, so here is a selection of the photos I do have of some of my favorite summer foods and summer eating memories from this August in Stresa:

Illustrating once again the Italian attention to presentation, this beautiful sliced melon and prosecco with fruit juice was from a small restaurant in a parking lot where I waited for my return bus from Lake Orta to Stresa. It came with the nuts and chips, and I paid 8 euro for it all. By the time the bus arrived I was cool and very relaxed.

At a special restaurant celebrating Giuseppe's birthday we shared the prosecco risotto. It was served with a thin slice of edible gold foil on top. The risotto was creamy and delicious... the restaurant was Trattoria Vigezzina, in Masera.

Ah... Milano!! While eating our way through the city one day (definitely worth another post sometime), we stumbled onto Pescheria Spadari, a famous old seafood shop that, only one day a week, served a quick lunch to customers. All sorts of Milanese packed the small shop, eating fritto misto, mixed fried seafood, from cone-shaped paper cups, while leaning on the tall counters.

This is what I call the 'mountain of meat'... Italians call it affettati, slices. Served as a primo piatto, or as an aperitivo, here we have a selection of meats and salami. The mountain of meat is always a favorite of mine.

A very pretty cold dish, this is an eggplant and ricotta lasagna salad that I enjoyed for lunch on Ferragosto Sunday.

We didn't have any gold foil, but Giuseppe did make me his own version of prosecco risotto one day. It was every bit as wonderful, and the strawberries, they were better than gold.

Even simply like this, I find that it is always possible to find food that is fresh and delicious. You will too, by being adventurous a bit and trying all. Buon appetito!

August... read all about it here.




Monday, August 30, 2010

Orlando Car Hire

Orlando, the home of Walt Disney’s World is a popular city with holiday resorts, in the state of Florida in USA. It attracts hoards of visitors, who avail the services of Orlando Car hire to go around town. A large fleet of cars of all sizes and description, is maintained to meet the demand of the hirer. The main car hire offices are located at South Orange, Central Florida, East Colonial Drive, Hollywood Way, World Center Drive, Grand Cypress Blvd., Livingston Street, Universal Blvd., Sea Harbor Drive, World Center Drive, West Colonial Drive, Central Florida Parkway, Universal Blvd., International Drive and Vineland Avenue in Orlando. From here one could get the right rental car of one’s choice with prior booking. The rentals are reasonable, inclusive of all taxes and fees. A wide range of cars are made available to tourists, by Orlando car hire companies.
For running the car hiring business, all the offices have regular staff. Excellent car hiring facilities are provided by them to facilitate and augment the business. From small family economy cars to big carriers and luxury vehicles ply in the city, carrying different segments of passengers to various tourist destinations and offices. Orlando has a lot to offer to its visitors. The staff is entrusted with multiple activities, like providing entire information on availability of various vehicles, their respective rentals, booking them and when the traveler arrives, checking of his credentials. It is ascertained if the renter qualifies to be a hirer. Maintenance of the vehicles in running condition, fuelling and refueling of them, providing a second driver to the traveler are some of the other tasks performed by the office bearers. Thus Orlando Car hire makes it very convenient for the visitor to see places and roam around the city.
Fair rentals and discounted packages are another attraction for the hirer. These are quoted from time to time to keep the business coming on a steady basis. Clear and easy modes of payment are offered and transparency is maintained with clearly spelt terms and conditions. In addition to this process, financial security in the form of insurance of the hirer and the driver is provided. Accident causing injury and death is covered therein. This enables the traveler to make a trip in a relaxed way, without having to worry at all. It gives him financial security and peace of mind. Orlando Car hire takes care of all aspects of carefree driving and makes a visit to Orlando a memorable experience.

Car Hire Deals

Car hire deals are of great consequence in making a travel worthwhile. For visiting any place, going for sight- seeing, or moving out after reaching a destination by air, water or rail, the need of road transport arises. A comfortable car is what a traveler needs the most. Car hire companies are into this very big business for almost a century now. Their operations spread across the globe in large number of countries, maintaining a huge fleet of high quality cars of all types, maintained and hired by thousands of their outlets all over the world. These outlets cater to the needs of millions of tourists traveling from place to place throughout the year .The job involves striking car hire deals day in and day out. Car hire services facilitate tourism.
Making of car hire deals begins with the company advertising about its car hire packages, making them economical and affordable by floating schemes of concessional discounts. This is an endeavor to attract the prospective hirer. From time to time these offers and treats are given out to make steady flow of business. The prospect falls for it and can get his booking done on line or even on the phone or at the outlets on arrival at the destination. The traveler is offered the option to choose from a large variety of vehicles. The car hire companies maintain a large fleet of latest well maintained cars of all types. From compact small family vehicle to large carriers, from economical transportation to exotic, prestige luxury cars like convertibles, Jaguars, BMWs, Mercedes Benz and so on and so forth. Some of the vehicles have special seats for children and physically handicapped persons also.
After checking the credentials of the visitors, the validity of their passport and driving license, these well fuelled and well maintained cars are hired out to them as per their choice, and paying capacity. Those who do not believe in making a compromise may opt for a prestige luxury car for a relatively higher rental. Fun loving traveler may opt for a race car or a convertible. They are air conditioned cars with direct transmission and navigation facilities. Every care is taken to make the tourist comfortable with 24 hour emergency backup facilities provided while driving on road.
Not only hire facilities are provided, hire to buy facilities and provision for replacement of vehicle is also there. A second driver, if needed, is provided. Insurance of the hirer and the driver is the company’s responsibility. All paper work, from booking to billing is done by the office bearers at the outlets. The terms and conditions of the car hire deals are specifically spelt out to avoid any dispute later. These include the billing of rental or price of the vehicle inclusive of the insurance charges, mode of payment, grace period permitted etc. The hirer travels safe and comfortable, gets his money’s worth and the hiring company its business and profit.

Luxury Car Hire

The very thought of availing luxury car hire , for a cherished travel is fascinating. And what a state of elation a hirer would experience while traveling in a modern time luxury car is difficult to describe. The car hire companies are maintaining a huge fleet of latest deluxe luxury vehicles, manufactured by highly evolved modern technology, with exceptional utility factor. Travel in such a car would mean a dream come true for any tourist. It takes only one phone call or a message on line, to book one of the luxury cars. These vehicles are there to cater to the hirer’s needs and fancies.
luxury car hire facilities are commonly available as there is a lot of competition in the business of car hire. These are generally spacious, well cushioned, air conditioned vehicles with special seats for babies or physically handicapped. They have direct transmission and navigation facilities and are smooth to drive with little fuel consumption. These cars have a wide range of variety, from compact to large convertibles, sports cars, big vans with luggage carriers, prestige vehicles and green environment friendly cars are some of the luxury cars, offered for hire all over the world by the leading car hire companies.
luxury car hire out cars, on the basis of needs and preferences of the hirers. There are people who do not believe in compromising on comfort and style in life and also while traveling. If it is for fun then they may hire a race car or a convertible, a racer special Shelby GT- Mustang. Those conscious of a touch of class, may hire a BMW, Audi, Jaguar or a Mercedes Benz. Environment conscious renters will prefer the Green collection of cars, like the Ford Fusion, Toyota Camry and Hyundai Sonata etc. These cars are supposed to be environment friendly and emit lesser air pollutants. Travel in these cars becomes an exotic experience, undertaken with a care free state of mind with all arrangements handled by the car hire company. An advance booking can ensure availability of the vehicle opted for.
The rentals for these luxury cars are also made attractive and inviting so that the hirer also finds the fares suitable and reasonable. From time to time the car hire companies come up with incentives to draw the attention of a prospective hirer. These discounts and concessions afloat every now and then, at times prove decisive for the hirer who gets attracted instantly. Soon the bookings are done and the trip materializes within the duration of the time of the offer. Discounts and many more treats are in store for renters of luxury car hire. The traveler undertakes a perfectly safe journey as the insurance cover made available makes him financially secure. The hirer thus travels in utmost comfort and style courtesy the car hire companies who provide a choice of luxury cars at a stringent, affordable rental.

USA Car Rental

In a vast country like United States of America Tourists throng throughout the year making USA car rental a necessity for transporting them around town, city and interstate. The USA is a Constitutional Federal Republic of as many as fifty one states, with Washington DC as its capital, surrounded by Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, with Canada bordering in the north and Mexico in the south. The country is huge and a store house of tourist attraction. With umpteen sea beaches and resorts like Miami in Florida, the fascinating high rocky mountains of Colorado with the Grand Canyon, it is famous for. The Statue of Liberty in New York represents the highly developed states of the world’s number one economy, that invite the tourists on purpose economic, commercial, political, educational, social, and also for leisure and pleasure. The cities with their mixed culture, modern style of living are awe inspiring. As soon as one arrives in USA, a car on hire is an immediate requirement on affordable rental.
USA car rental began its hiring services almost a century ago around the year 1918 in Chicago. And today it has around 3500 outlets in USA, placed at all important destinations, close to the airports, railway stations and sea ports. Competent office bearers provide best car rental facilities and services to the travelers. In fact buses are employed to fetch travelers from their place of arrival, to the car hire outlet. Making bookings, checking the credentials of the hirer, the driving license and passport, providing a second driver if required, planning the entire trip to the renter’s satisfaction, till his final send off, is the job performed by these car hire companies. The entire paper work from booking to billing is their responsibility. Insurance of the driver and the hirer, spelling out clearly the terms and conditions of the hiring contract, mode of payment and grace period permitted to the renter, eliminates the possibility of disputes later.
USA car rental maintains a large fleet of cars including small economy vehicles to big luxury cars and carriers. Convertibles, racer special Shelby GT-Mustang is part of its fun collection. This is the leisure car rental. The Prestige collection comprising of cars from Ford’s Premier Automotive Group models like, Volvo, Jaguar, Mercedes Benz, Audi, BMWs etc. are exotic. The Green Collection has environment friendly cars such as Ford Fusion, Toyota Camry, Hyundai Sonata and others with lower emission of air pollutants. Some of these cars are automatic, with direct transmission and navigating facilities.
USA car rental provides fair car rentals and also, hire to buy. Hire to buy outlets are at California and Hawaii. The rentals are reasonable with schemes offering discounts and concessions being afloat every now and then. These discounts make the rentals attractive inducing a steady flow of business. The hirer finds it economical with the discount coupons and enjoys travelling in the most evolved vehicles of the day, in perfect comfort and safety at cheapest price.

USA Chauffeur adds new addition to fleet

When an ordinary transportation just won’t do, the professionals at USA Chauffeur will continue to exceed customer expectations. To better service customers on mobile dinner outings or business meetings, USA Chauffeur has added the new “Executive Series” SUV to their fleet.

The BMW and Mercedes Benz executive sedans are equipped for one to three passengers and feature tinted windows, beverage holders, individual comfort controls for heated seats and A/C vents, motorized window blinds, reading lamps and storage console. Other amenities include conference style seating, a privacy divider, and a computer table.

Customers who are celebrating a special occasion can reserve a VIP dinner package with one of these Executive Series SUVs. This five hour exclusive night includes professional chauffeured service in a Luxury Executive series BMW 745Li, Mercedes BENZ S550 or our CEO series Escalade / Denali SUV, a full course dinner at the restaurant of your choice (choose from four available packages) followed by transportation to the “SAK Comedy Lab” in downtown Orlando.

No matter what the occasion is, riders will notice the exceptional ride quality, and enjoy a safe journey to their Orlando area destination. For more information, call 407-239-1551, 1 (800) 820-5705 for Toll Free Reservations or e-mail: sales@usachauffeur.com.

Sunday, August 29, 2010

August In Stresa -- The Stresa Festival -- Settimane Musicali di Stresa

Quintet Bislacco, who performed at the Castello Visconteo di Vogogna.


This is its 49th year, but I really believe the Stresa Festival, the Settimane Musicali di Stresa, is finally beginning to get the recognition that it so deserves. From the caliber of the musicians, to the variety of musical genres and nationalities represented, to the venues, so magical that the music seems almost too much of a gift on top of such beauty, there is simply nothing anywhere like the Stresa Festival. Much promotion in recent years, as well as the assistance of social networks of bloggers and sites such as Facebook, have finally finally finally made the festival as well known as it should be.

Ensemble Berlin play Gershwin and Ravel at Villadossola.


Let's list just a few of the many, many performances:

Saturday, 28 August: Thomas Zehetmair on Violin, J.S. Bach Sonate and Partite, at the Chiesa del Crocifisso at Collegio Rosmini.

Sunday, 29 August: Welser-Most and the Cleveland Orchestra, at the Palazzo dei Congressi Auditorium, playing Schubert and Strauss.

Tuesday, 31 August: The Borodin Quartet, in the Salone degli Arazzi, Isola Bella.

Wednesday, 1 September: Violino and Pianoforte, at Villa Ponti, Arona.


Thomas Zehetmair plays Bach violin solos at the Chiesa del Collegio Rosmini over two nights.

I hope you get the idea. These listed above take place in the span of a few DAYS; can you imagine an entire summer's worth?

And don't forget one of the highlights of every summer... the amazing Bach solo suites for violincello at the medieval Eremo di Santa Caterina del Sasso. Absolutely took my breath away when I went last year.

Friends of Stresa Sights, dressed for the occasion and waiting the boat to take them to Santa Caterina for this year's Bach violincello performance by Alban Gerhardt.



If you're planning to be in Stresa during a summer, bookmark these pages. And make a performance a part of your trip.

Friend Settimane Musicale Di Stresa on Facebook to stay apprised of events: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000854710605

Or bookmark the Festival home page: http://www.stresafestival.eu/

Waldorf Astoria Orlando amenities

Guests have come to expect theLink very best in luxury from the Waldorf Astoria brand, and the Waldorf Astoria Orlando is no exception. Personalized service and attention detail are the hallmarks of this new resort, with 24 hour services that include wireless Internet access, a contemporary business center, concierge services, valet parking and in-room dining.

Guests can exercise and rejuvenate their mind, body and spirit during their stay at the Waldorf Astoria Orlando. There is a championship 18-hole Rees Jones-designed golf course, a full-service European style spa featuring Guerlain products, and a signature cabana pool and a zero-depth entry pool, plus the Aquamarine poolside grille. In addition to poolside dining, there are several on-site signature restaurants, such as the Bull & Bear Steakhouse, Oscar’s and Peacock Alley. Golfers can enjoy a burger at the Clubhouse Grille, or a drink at Sir Harry’s Lounge.

Other amenities at the Waldorf Astoria Orlando include jogging trails, bicycle rentals, and a complimentary fitness center staffed with a fitness attendant and open 24 hours a day. Best of all, guests of the Waldorf Astoria Orlando can take advantage of free, regularly scheduled transportation shuttles to and from Walt Disney World, because visitors to Orlando have come to expect the very best in theme park attractions.

Saturday, August 28, 2010

‘Stay Connected’ deals at Disney World’s Swan and Dolphin resort

The only thing that is better than spending an entire day at one of the Walt Disney World theme parks is spending the night at a Disney hotel. The Swan and Dolphin resorts are now offering special Stay Connected offers—book any room for 2010 or 2011 and reserve a second guest room starting at $119. Be sure to ask for “Stay Connected” when you make your reservation.

There are 17 restaurants and lounges in the Swan and Dolphin resort, plus transportation to the Disney theme parks, and both the Swan and Dolphin have access to the Disney Boardwalk, which features shops, restaurants and entertainment. Guests can chose from a variety of family-friendly activities at the hotels, and with several events at Disney World scheduled in the coming months, now is the best time to call 1-888-828-8850 to make your reservation.

Some of the upcoming Stay Connected deals include:

  • The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic: On October 8 & 9, 2010 one and two night packages are available starting at $169* per night and include nightly admission for two to the Food & Wine Classic and admission to the Friday and/or Saturday beverage seminar of your choice. For reservations, refer to rate code FWCLAS.
  • Epcot® International Food & Wine Festival: From October 1 - November 14, 2010 there are special room rates starting as low as $169 per night on select dates; Black out dates include: Oct. 6, Oct. 7, Oct. 17-20 and Nov. 6. For reservations, refer to rate code FWFEST.
  • September Looks Suite: Bring the whole family to Orlando and enjoy 50% off the executive one bedroom suites during September 1 - December 24, 2010. Each suite features one king or two double beds and includes a separate living area. Rates start at $275 per night (a $600 value) and must be booked by September 30, 2010. For reservations, refer to rate code SUITES2.
  • Savings For You, Magic for your Family: Book this special offer now for stays (4 night minimum) through April 30, 2011 and your family will enjoy overnight accommodations in a 1,000+ sq. ft Executive or Grand Suite with two bathrooms, a $100 Resort Credit, complimentary crib, plus Extra Magic Hours and free Disney transportation to and from the theme parks. For reservations, refer to rate code LOVE YOUR FAMILY.

Even more discounts and travel deals are available online; it is now more affordable than ever for extended families to Stay Connected during a special once-in-a-lifetime vacation at the Walt Disney World resort.

Friday, August 27, 2010

August In Stresa -- Food Festivals



There are so many different food festivals throughout the summer in Stresa and the surrounding towns. Like this one last night, and again this evening, the annual Cibi di Strada, Street Food, in Intra. In four areas around Intra -- Piazza Ranzoni, Piazza San Vittore, Via San Vittore, and Corso Mameli -- between 6 and 10 pm, more than a dozen restaurants set up serving tables outside. One could purchase tickets, 10 euro for three, and then exchange each for a plate of food. Pick up your wine glass and its holder to wear around your neck. Each glass of wine was also one ticket. Then sit at one of the tables also set up for dining, or wander to the next serving station, or walk across the piazza and eat on a bench by the lake.




Want your mouth to water? Listen to some of these offerings... From Gattabuia: Arancini di Riso con Gorgonzola e Panatura di Riso Venere; from Il Ristorante Piccolo Lago: Spiedino Marinato, Batida de Coco; and from La Pesa, the very intriguing Sandwich con Gelato al Parmigiano Reggiano e Prosciutto di Parma. Yes, that's an ice cream sandwich made with parmesan and prosciutto flavored gelatos.

Are Monthly Car Rentals Really Cheaper?

I need a car for 2 months but only during the week, not weekends. I was told it would be cheaper to get one for the full 2 months then for during the week only. is this correct? Thanks


It's hard to say whether monthly car rentals would ALWAYS be cheaper for the full two months rather than just 8 seperate rentals, but based on my experience, it is likely that the monthly rental option would be cheaper.

Without knowing dates, times, cities, etc.. it's impossible to know for sure, but when I checked a random city (Dayton, OH) for some made up dates, for a compact car, with 3 differenct companies (Alamo, Avis, Enterprise)... the 2 month car rental was consistently cheaper than the seperate weekly rentals.

The only way to know for sure, however is to price it out. Start by looking for the cheapest 2 month rental rate and then check that company's rates for the 8 seperate car rentals.

Then search for the cheapest weekly car rental rate and then check that company's rates for the 2 month rental.

You can try using a booking engine site (like travelocity, car rentals.com, orbitz, priceline, etc) to compare multiple companies simultaneously -- then go to that particular company website to compare.

I hope this helps and good luck with your rental!


Read more about
Long Term Car Rentals
Tips to Save Money on Long Term Rentals
Comparing Car Rental Rates
Tips on finding Car Rental Specials



Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek amenities

Whether your visit to Orlando is part of a business trip, family vacation, or a romantic getaway, the amenities at the Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek will make your stay as comfortable as possible. Business travelers can get their work done with ample time to relax, parents can enjoy some time alone knowing that their children are happily occupied, and the lush grounds of the Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek an ideal secluded spot for couples.

The Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek has a business center with a fax, printer, and photo copying service, and the hotel also has express mail service, office rentals, meeting rooms and audio/visual equipment rental. The state-of-the-art convention center at Bonnet Creek offers 150,000 square feet of flexible meeting space and the largest ballroom covers more than 36,000 square feet. There are 42 meeting rooms and five boardrooms are equipped with the latest technology, including secured wireless Internet access.

For vacationing families, cribs and high chairs are available for the smallest guests, and older children can enjoy a number of hotel activities, the resort’s day camp, video rentals, and a children’s menu. Babysitting and family package deals are also available.

Best of all, all guests will benefit from the recreational features of the hotel, such as bicycle rentals, a driving range and golf course, fitness room, jogging and walking tracks, and an outdoor swimming pool. Summer always lasts a little longer in Orlando, so it’s not too late to make a reservation at the Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek.

Thursday, August 26, 2010

"Taste of the J" local food fest in Orlando Sunday

[From the press release]

This Sunday, August 29 from 12-4pm, the JCC South Orlando at the Jack & Lee Rosen Campus is holding its 2nd Annual Taste of the J. The Taste of the J is a FREE festival of local food expected to draw close to 1,500 people.

Guests are invited to sample culinary creations for free and then purchase larger portions if they care to. There will be free classes such as Yoga and Zumba as well as Threatre South Classes like the Blue Man Group and Glee. And fun activities and games for families including video gaming with The Game Dudes.

This year, the following restaurants will be offering samples and vying for awards during the Taste of the J Food Competition. Awards will be given out for Best Dessert, Best Appetizer, Best Drink, Most Creative Display and Most Creative Food Sample Presentation. Even the kids can compete: an ice cream eating competition will be held for the youngsters.

Rosen Hotels & Resorts

Bagel King

Cohen’s Deli

Pinkberry

Kettle Corn Company

Stefano’s Italian Grille

The Palm

Cantina Laredo

Barnies Coffee and Tea Company

Doubletree Resort Orlando International Drive

Anatolia Mediterranean Cuisine

Pure Magic Ice Cream

Picture This Candy Company

Classy Cakes and Candies

For more information, visit http://www.orlandojcc.org/events/event_details.asp?id=109009

August In Stresa -- Berlusconi?!!




Google Earth gives us this view of Villa Correnti.


Yep... You and I are not the only ones who appreciate Lago Maggiore's charms in the summer. For a couple of years now Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi's family has been vacationing at their villa in Lesa, just a few kilometers south of Stresa along the lake, on the way to Arona.

Guest writer Tony, who also vacations off and on at his own home in Lesa, had some fun playing paparazzo for us and sends along this eyewitness report and photos from the gate of the villa:

____________________

Prime Minister in Residence in Lesa



Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has been at his family villa in Lesa, south of Stresa, on and off during August. When he is in residence, the Italian flag flies from the mast on the lake at the edge of the property and a Coast Guard boat patrols offshore. The property, known as Villa Correnti, was previously owned by the Garavoglia family that created Campari, the Italian aperitif.

Traffic on via Sempion, SS33, the main road up the western side of Lago Maggiore is often slowed by the many polizia and press cars that crowd the highway that is quite narrow near the entrance to his villa. This has exacerbated an already bad situation created when part of the road between Meina and Lesa collapsed into the lake in late July after a car ran off the road into the lake. Americans observing traffic in this area have long predicted someone would drive off the road but few thought that the collapsed guardrail would take a big piece of the road with it.

Neighbors report that press cars have parked along via San Antonio near the PM’s villa which is “narrow enough as it is.” But “he puts his trash bags out in front of the villa gates on trash pickup day just like everyone else” another resident remarked, and “I think he separates the recyclables too.”

The Prime Minister has complained recently about the press taking photographs of people coming from and going to the white helicopter that lands on the north lawn of the property. But he makes his own news every time he journeys to Arona for a gelato and, “thank goodness, he only comes to politic or have gelato,” said one Arona resident, “Napoleon came and he blew up our only fortress, left Angera Castle standing across the lake, and now Angera has the big tourist draw.”


Thanks Tony! You'll let us know if there are any gelato sightings, si?

Tony has told us about lots of great places and things. Read about them here.

And August... read all about it here.


(Hmm, my own dream house is very close to there in Meina... we could be future neighbors...)



Wednesday, August 25, 2010

Orlando Golf Deal


Disney Golf And Reduced Rates at Lake Buena Vista Resort 2 night / 2 round from $164

If you're traveling to Orlando in September, may we suggest an Orlando golf package that includes two rounds of golf at Walt Disney World and two very discounted nights at Lake Buena Vista Resort? Play one round on Disney's Magnolia Golf Course, host to PGA TOUR events and the world famous Mickey Mouse bunker, and one round on Disney's Osprey Ridge Golf Course, a challenging, sought-after Tom Fazio design, and stay in a spacious guestroom at the Lake Buena Vista Resort (see description below). This package is available for as low as $164 and can be customized to meet your specific needs and travel dates. Rate is per person, based on quad occupancy and includes green fees, cart fees and all taxes.

The Lake Buena Vista Resort Hotel, located near Downtown Disney in the Walt Disney World Resort, has 18 stories and 325 spacious rooms and suites with private balconies or atriums. It features restaurants and lounges, swimming pools and many upscale amenities. Enjoy the panoramic views of Walt Disney World and nightly fireworks from the 18th floor lounge. This is the perfect choice for a first-class vacation with many comforts and luxuries.

Book your Orlando Golf Deal now.

Disney store

Shoppers who are searching for all things Disney can find plenty of Disney merchandise at any of the Walt Disney World theme parks, but there are other places in the Orlando area where visitors can go to a Disney store without having to pay theme park admission.

Within the theme parks, the Emporium store covers more than one full block on Main Street, U.S.A. and at 17,000 square feet, is the largest gift and souvenir shop in Magic Kingdom theme park. This is the go-to place for T-shirts and outerwear, cups, DVDs, plush gifts, antenna toppers, and just about anything else from the House of Mouse. The World Showcase shops at Epcot also sell unique gifts from the featured countries: Mexico, Norway, China, Germany, Italy, USA, Japan, Morocco, France, United Kingdom, and Canada.

The World of Disney Store, in Downtown Disney Marketplace, is the largest Disney character store in the Walt Disney World Resort—and anywhere else on Earth. The World of Disney is also a pin trading location and home of the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. There is no entrance fee to go to Downtown Disney, just as there is no cost to visit Florida Mall near Orlando International Airport to shop at the only official Disney Store in Orlando. There is another Disney Store outlet at the Prime Outlets on International Drive, featuring clearance items.

For more Disney merchandise selections, visit the Disney store online.

Holidays In Spain By Car

The Kingdom of Spain has a population of 46 million, the capital is Madrid. The borders of the country are naturally created by geographic features. Rent a car and explore this beautiful country. The busiest airport in Spain is the airport of Madrid (Barajas), with 50,8 million passengers in 2008, being the world's 11th busiest airport. Car rental at Madrid airport is possible to book online before the trip online.

The Airport of Barcelona (El prat) is also important with 30 million passengers. Don't forget to check out the car hire specialists online like  Izzirent. The most convenient way to assure your car is to pre book online and pick up desired car rental at Barcelona airport upon arrival. Barcelona airport is one of many locations where car rentals are pre booked in advance for 6 – 8 months, specially May and summer peak season from June to September.
The Escorial monastery was put up in 1584 by Philip II for the memory of Saint Lawrence, who was a Christian martyr. The old and deeply religious king lived here the final years of his life. The royal rooms are actually in the church. His bedroom is located right next to the main altar. The structure complex is monumental, it's a kind of blend of a monastery and a royal palace.
The architecture of Barcelona is dominated by Antony Gaudi's mind-blowing Art Noveau style. The Expiatory Church of the Holy Family (Sagrada Familia) is maybe the most inspiring and mind-boggling church in Christianity. It is not completed yet, the construction started on 1886. The construction is funded by the steep price of the visitor tickets. It reflects the passionate religiousness of the Spanish people. The church features organic, plant-like structures, it seems as if the building stones were alive.
The cuisine of Spain is basically Mediterranean, it uses a lot of seafood, olive oil, hot spices.
Car hire in Spain is a good way of travelling the country. Spanish road system is mainly centralized, with 6 highways connecting Madrid to Basque Country, Catalonia, Valencia, Andalusia, Extremadura and Galicia. Additionally, there are highways along the Atlantic (Ferrol to Vigo), Cantabrian (Oviedo to San Sebastian) and Mediterranean (Girona to Almeria) coasts.
You can also travel to the remote places quickly by car. Other important landmarks include the historical centre of Cordoba, the Alhambra, the Cathedral of Burgos, buildings of Antoni Gaudi in Barcelona, and the old city of Santiago de Compostela. The palaeolithic paintings in Altamira are worth seeing by car. This place is one of the most important site of prehistoric art, it is located in the Cantabrian Mountain. It was discovered in 1868, and eleven years later scientists found beautiful painting in one of the inner caves. 600 paintings and 1500 drawing was found in the cave. The biggest cave is the hall of bulls, it contains four big scale paintings. The prehistoric man painted bison, mammoths, boars, deer. The also found the tools in the clay ground.
The copy of the cave has been opened for visitors in 2001, this is the Altamira Museum, which is the property of the Spanish state. The preservation of the original paintings is the reason of the duplication.
Altamira is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as Palaeolithic Cave Art of Northern Spain. 17 additional caves decorated with palaeolithic painting were added to the list in 2008. These paintings represent the culture of whole Europe, from the Ural to the Iberian Peninsula, from 35,000 BC to 11,000 BC. Given the fact that the modern man spotted Europe for the first time around 40,000 BC, these paintings can be considered as the first impressions of the European continent. The deep caves conserved the paintings, while potential open air paintings are washed away by the rain.

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

August In Stresa -- The Weather



Many of you have been writing and asking me about the weather. I can't lie... the weather isn't perfect and sunny everyday here. But I will say that during this August, for the most part, Stresa has experienced very lovely weather. The first three weeks of the month have brought only a very few days with rain, and even then the rain comes often at night. The days have been sunny and with low humidity, temperatures in the mid-80s F (about 27 to 29 C.) In the evenings it's been cooler (about 60 F, 16 C.); I see many with light jackets at night. So is it perfect? Not always, but it's close! And on the few days when it's not, just do like these guys above that I spotted on Via Roma... prendi l'ombrello, grab your umbrella, and get out there anyway!

You can always check the current temperature, as well as a 15-day forecast, here on Stresa Sights at the top of the left column.


August In Stresa -- The Grandest Buffet



While many of the hotels serve a scrumptious breakfast buffet, and many prepare wonderful special dinner menus throughout the year, there is only one annual Buffet di Ferragosto, and it is that which is served each August 15 at the Grand Hotel des Iles Borromees. At this grandest of the grand hotels, each Ferragosto holiday, the annual mid-summer festival, is an occasion to out-do themselves with edible sculptures and a gastronomical heaven of a menu. With all foods served in finger food sizes you can be sure to try each and every one! Here are a few photos of the preparation for this year's feast:


There's no reason to pile up a plate... you can try foods one a time, because they are served in their own glass or spoon. The cost of this dinner buffet, served from 8 to 10 pm, was 75 euro... a princely price, si, but this is the Borromees afterall, and an only once-a-year experience each August.

Monday, August 23, 2010

September is Super at Celebration Suites!



Believe it or not, Fall is almost here and the kids are gearing up to head back to school. Late August and September are fantastic times to visit Orlando when the theme park crowds are smaller and the temperatures are cooler.

In addition, early September means it’s time for the annual “Night of Joy” & “Rock the Universe” contemporary Christian musical festivals!

Night of Joy is held September 10-11, 2010 at Magic Kingdom Park from 7:30 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. (with early entry beginning at 4:00 p.m.). Hear live performances by contemporary Christian superstars in rock, pop and gospel as you ride some of the Park's hottest attractions.

And, nearby at Universal Studios, “Rock the Universe” will be held the same weekend and promises to provide an unforgettable weekend of faith, love, and rock ‘n roll! Hours are also from 4:00pm – 1:00am on Friday & Saturday. There are different bands and groups at each event.

Remember, it is easy to experience either Night of Joy or Rock the Universe because Celebration Suites provides complimentary shuttle service to and from Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and Sea World! And, at Celebration Suites at Old Town, this beautiful time of year is being celebrated with rates as low as $50.95 for one bedroom suites that SLEEP SIX with dine-in kitchens. And, for those wishing to enjoy the great Orlando-area attractions and theme parks, Celebration Suites now offers tickets for sale (most of them are discounted) in our lobby from 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. every day!

The hotel’s great location next door to family-friendly Old Town and Fun Spot USA provides family friendly entertainment, great restaurants, and thrills such as go-karts, bumper cars, and the unique adventure rides such as the Slingshot and SkyCoaster. Inside the hotel are 3 huge, sparkling pools complete with BBQ and picnic areas. There are two children’s playgrounds which make this hotel perfect for families. A new business center provides a place to keep in touch with family and friends back home. The hotel now features a limited number of rooms with king beds and new furniture that still sleep six people in comfort. An on-site continental breakfast is available for only $5 extra for an entire room when reservations are made online, and WiFi is now available in every suite for a nominal fee.

Don’t wait until the busy summer season to make your plans, take advantage of great rates at Celebration Suites in rooms big enough for the entire family! Visit Celebration Suites online or call 1-800-327-9126 to reserve your Florida getaway today! Rates are subject to change and availability.

Car hire Majorca

Car hire Majorca plays an important role in giving boost to tourism on this island in Spain. Majorca is the largest island, off Spain, in the Mediterranean Sea. It is part of the Balearic archipelago. This place is a popular tourist resort, exquisitely beautiful, with enchanting beaches, an awe inspiring Gothic sculptured cathedral, highly enjoyable sea sports, hotels, shopping centers and exotic night life in southern Majorca. A large number of visitors throng here, making use of the car hire facility made available by ‘hire a car companies’.
Right in the main terminal before the final exit of the air port at Mallorca, taxi service is provided. The main outlets are at the famous resort of Can Picafort, Can Pastilla and Cala Ratjada. The main towns and destinations are connected through car transport. It is better to hire a car with a prior booking to avoid inconvenience in getting a vehicle, in times of heavy rush. Bookings can easily be done as all the relative information is available on line, in the company’s office. Car hire facilities are essentially required by the visitors, to facilitate a comfortable travel throughout the island, reaching out to all important destinations.
The companies undertaking the task of car hire Majorca, take meticulous care to make the travel comfortable and stress free for the hirer. They maintain a fleet o efficiently run cars of various types, to cater to the needs of all segments of people with different pay pockets. To make the rental attractive, the car hire companies float concessional schemes, permitting discounts from time to time. This ensures a steady flow of business to them. From small standard cars to big luxury cars, sports cars, BMWs and Mercedes Benz are all available in running condition for transportation across the island. In case there is a requirement of a second driver, the car rental company arranges to provide one
Car hire Majorca made available right at Mallorca air port, transports the visitor around in comfort and mental ease, with affordable rentals, easy mode of payment, specific grace periods granted and properly fuelled vehicles at the hirer’s disposal. Other important aspects like, insurance of the hirer and the driver is invariably done. It creates a sense of financial security in the mind of the renter, and he is able to undertake the journey with a care free mind.
To carry out transport services, car hire Majorca has a regular staff of competent personnel. They verify the credentials of the prospective renters, like their passports, driving license etc., they also do all the paper work such as billing and providing receipts. An endeavor to provide fool proof service is made, leaving little room for disputes or disagreements. So in perfect comfort the traveler enjoys his trip courtesy car hire facilities in Majorca.

Car hire Menorca

Menorca is a Balearic island in the Mediterranean Sea. It is a Spanish possession. It is named Menorca as it is smaller than the other island close to it called Majorca. The island attracts visitors and to transport them within the island, car hire Menorca is responsible. The island is famous for a number of megalithic stone monuments, giving evidence of very early prehistoric human activity. It has a unique culture. Tourist throng here in summer and winter as well, to get a taste of antiquity in this sea resort.
That makes car hire facility important and is available right at the Mahon Airport. All types of cars, small ordinary family cars and big vehicles with seven and nine seats, luxury cars, and spacious vans, BMWs and Mercedes Benz, Convertibles are available in perfect running condition, properly fuelled, ready to be driven away by the hirer. Here the vehicles are air conditioned, with automatic transmission and satellite navigation. For facilitating excellent transport activity, car hire Menorca has competent personnel employed in their offices. They discharge their multi faceted duties, to make travel easy and comfortable for about a million tourists visiting Menorca on an average every year.
Car hire Menorca plays a vital role in augmenting tourism in Menorca. Menorca is essentially a tourist economy. The visitors are offered cheap economic packages with schemes of concessions and discounts afloat every now and then. Other benefits, like availability of a second driver free of cost and unlimited mileage, free insurance are made available to the hirer. This ensures a steady flow of business, in today’s world of competition.
Once a tourist arrives in Menorca, his travel is taken care of, by a car hire Menorca . Right from making the booking, checking the credentials of visitors, verifications of their passports and driving license to seeing them off at the air port for returning to their native lands, is a task performed by the car hire companies. All paper work right from booking to billing is done by them. This includes providing comprehensive insurance of the hirer and the driver. A special care is taken to ensure safe and comfortable travel for the customer. They are not only insured against accident causing injury or death but also against theft. It makes the hirer absolutely at ease while undertaking his trips of leisure. The traveler enjoys his trip to the maximum extent as car hire Menorca takes care of all aspects of the travel.

Disney games

If you are into gaming, there are plenty of online and real life Disney games to choose from. Many of the games available at Disney.com are based upon hit movies and Disney Channel favorites such as Cars, Up, Pirates of the Caribbean, Jonas Brothers, Hannah Montana and Phineas and Ferb. There is even a game of “Classic Tron” for those who appreciate “Old School” video games.

In addition to the online games, there are plenty of real life Disney games available at Walt Disney World in Orlando. Visitors at Disney’s Hollywood Studios can be a part of the arcade action in the Toy Story Mania attraction (there is an iPhone app for that game as well). Riders can also help Buzz Lightyear defeat the evil Zurg at Space Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin at Magic Kingdom.

The best place to get your game on at Disney World, however, is at the DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive Theme Park at Downtown Disney. This is no ordinary arcade—some of the attractions in this five-story building have height restrictions. Visitors can be the captain of a pirate ship, ride the rapids, help Aladdin find the magic lamp and even “Ride the Comix” as they fly through a virtual reality comic book world. In addition to the virtual reality and 3D encounters, there are plenty of traditional pinball machines and arcade games to enjoy, without having to dig through your pockets for quarters, token, or even electronic cards.

Sunday, August 22, 2010

Orlando Home Show

Whether you’re improving an existing home, feathering a new nest, or getting ready to sell, you’ll find abundant ideas and inspiration at the 2010 Orlando Home Show. Central Florida’s leading and largest home improvement extravaganza returns to the Orange County Convention Center on October 22-24. From the front door to the back yard, guests will find the area’s largest selection of the latest products and services for the home, all under one roof.

“This is the home show that area consumers have relied on since 2003 to deliver the highest-quality products, services and experience,” said Show Manager Paul Schweitzer of Marketplace Events. “The current economy may be challenging, but improving your best investment just got easier. Whether you’ve got just a few hours or an entire day, visiting the Orlando Home Show is time well spent.” Here’s a look at show’s special features:

• John Gidding, host of HGTV’s highly rated and popular show Curb Appeal: The Block, will share his creative ideas and expertise with guests during appearances on Saturday and Sunday.

• Fall fashion tips are on tap for show guests when designer Christopher Straub, a fan favorite on season 6 of Lifetime’s Project Runway, appears on the main stage on Friday and Saturday.

• Chef Tim Keating of Disney’s Flying Fishing Cafe, Chef Jamie McFadden of Cuisiniers Catering, author Bob Morris, and Edible Orlando Publisher Kendra Lott and Editor Katie Farmand are among the area’s top chefs and culinary experts who will serve up seasonal tips and delicious samples throughout the weekend on the Edible Orlando Cooking Stage.

• New and gently used purses donated by local celebrities will be on display on Saturday only in a silent auction to benefit the Orlando Sentinel’s Newspapers in Education program. Christopher Straub will include a purse of his own design in the auction.

• From energy savings tips to fall entertaining ideas, guests can pick up helpful advice from experts presenting on the main stage throughout the weekend.

• Plus, one-of-a-kind displays featuring the original Batmobile from Warner Bros.’ Batman Returns, a classic 1965 Ford Mustang replica pool table, a "Holidays at the White House" miniature with a display of Abraham Lincoln's furniture, hundreds of exhibits with the industry’s hottest products and services for home and garden, giveaways, contests, prizes and much more.

Show hours are Friday and Saturday, 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m, and Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Tickets are available at the door, and are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors (60+) and free for children 12 and under. Adults are just $5 after 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday only. Advance tickets can be purchased online for a $3 discount off full-price admission for adults and seniors at www.OrlandoHomeShow.com. Convenient on-site parking is available adjacent to the Orange County Convention Center off Universal Boulevard, and is $8 per car. For more information, visit www.OrlandoHomeShow.com, or call 877-871-SHOW (7469). The Orlando Home Show and its spring sister show, the Central Florida Home & Garden Show, are both produced by Marketplace Events.

Disney World for babies: Animal Kingdom

Of all the Walt Disney World theme parks, Disney’s Animal Kingdom is the largest at the resort and the largest Disney theme park in the world, but that is because most of the 500 acres of park land have been set aside for the animals that live there. For the youngest visitors to Animal Kingdom, there might be less rides to choose from but the African safari and live musical shows add to the fun.

Even though babies and toddlers have a hard time being patient while waiting for a show to begin, there are plenty of musical and visual delights for audiences of all ages during performances of the Festival of the Lion King and Finding Nemo: The Musical, both of which are based on popular animated films. Younger kids will also appreciate Mickey’s Jammin’ Jungle Parade, and there is no need to worry about whether or not the fireworks will upset the little ones—Animal Kingdom does not host fireworks shows so as not to upset the animals.

As far as rides are concerned, the must-see attraction of Disney’s Animal Kingdom is appropriate for all ages: the Kilimanjaro Safari allows riders to share the land with African animals on the savanna as they ride in a rugged open-sided safari vehicle. Be sure to have cameras at the ready in order to photograph the giraffes, lions, antelope, rhinos, warthogs, zebras and other stunning species roam the land. In Dionland USA, the TriceraTop spin is a good way to introduces younger kids to carnival rides, and preschoolers and older kids can stretch their legs in the Boneyard play area—but be prepared to chase the kids around once they are set loose!

Friday, August 20, 2010

Aloha Friday at Loews Royal Pacific Resort set for Friday, September 3



Fresh and flavorful food made with locally-grown ingredients is on the menu for the next 'Aloha Friday' event at Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando. Set for Friday, September 3 from 6:30 - 8:30 pm, the event takes its name from the Hawaiian tradition of slowing down, wrapping up the work week and beginning the weekend by gathering with friends.



The chefs at Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando also use the event as a way to showcase their partnership with Slow Food Orlando, by using many ingredients that are grown and sourced locally through farmers and purveyors that are part of the company's Adopt-a-Farmer program. Culinarians from Emeril's Tchoup Chop also serve up special items from the celebrity chef's on-site restaurant. The Slow Food movement is a way of living and a way of eating that links the pleasure of food with a commitment to the community and the environment. Its goal is to build awareness of local food and farmers and to promote re-connection with family and friends.



"Our partnerships with local and regional farmers and purveyors have expanded this year, as we continue to focus on responsibly grown, carefully crafted and deliciously healthy products," says Executive Chef Nando Belmonte.



'Aloha Friday' offers the opportunity for people to sample food dishes featuring locally-grown ingredients and meet some of the people who grow, raise, farm or catch those products. The menu will feature:

  • Mixed organic baby greens from Hearts of Christmas Farms in Christmas, FL
  • Barolo braised grass fed beef with sweet grass dairy goat cheese polenta from Deep Creek Livestock in DeLand, FL
  • Port Canaveral Ruby Red Shrimp from Wild Ocean Seafood Market in Port Canaveral, FL
  • Poblano pulled pork with garlic cilantro flatbread from Palmetto Creek Farms in Avon Park, FL
  • Caramelized peach strudel with organic Florida blueberry cloufitis from Hearts of Christmas Farms in Christmas, FL and Lake Meadow Naturals in Ocoee, FL


'Aloha Friday' also features live entertainment by local band Simulcast, along with tropical drinks, beer and wine. Tickets for the event are $35 in advance on-line or $45 at the door or $50 in advance for VIP tickets, which includes a private pre-reception, early entry to the event and reserved seating. For tickets, log onto: LoewsHotels.Tix.com.



The 1,000-room Loews Royal Pacific Resort is the third on-site Loews Hotel at Universal Orlando. It has been honored by Travel & Leisure Family as one of the top family-friendly resorts in the country and also has been named among the best meeting facilities in the U.S. by Successful Meetings and Meetings & Conventions magazine. The world-class accommodations at Universal Orlando Resort also include the rock 'n' roll themed Hard Rock Hotel and the Italian-themed Loews Portofino Bay Hotel. All three on-site hotels are connected to each other and to Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure and CityWalk by a chain of scenic waterways.