Making The Most Out of Your Next Flight: Less Is Always More

BY  Abdul Aziz Sep 8, 2022

When you tell somebody, you are planning a trip to Italy. They always answer, “You must visit Florence in Tuscany!”. Florence is a typical river city developed on the two banks of the Arno, a city rich in history and art. Founded and inhabited by Italic people, Florence extends into a green plain, which is surrounded by hills dotted with cypresses, and olive trees, and also crossed by the Arno river. But above all: a city breathing art and culture everywhere!  No wonder Ginori 1735, the iconic porcelain brand, partnered with St. Regis Hotels & Resorts to present Café Ginori.  Café Ginori will blend the elegance of Italian cuisine with Italian artistry to make the tourism experience in Florence more happening.  So, what are the special attractions or the best places to visit in Florence, Tuscany? This Tour and Travel blog has all the answers. Special Attractions Of Florence in Tuscany Many of the travelers are asking, is Tuscany in Florence? And what is there? In the past years, it has been awarded internationally as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. You are standing in the middle cradle of the Renaissance. The city is the hub of extraordinary literary, artistic, and scientific development that took place in the 14th-16th centuries. To visit Florence in Tuscany really means jumping back in time!  Note: Appreciated more than anything else is the urban architecture and the presence of traces of a glorious past on every street corner;  with the most iconic places such as the Duomo Cathedral, the Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Pitti, etc. You Should Visit Florence For Its Art And Culture Known throughout the world for its artistic masterpieces, the colored marbles of the churches, and the high-sounding architecture, Florence is the city of the Medici, an ancient Tuscan family that became one of the most important dynasties in Italy and Europe. Nowadays, it is home to the most beautiful and important museums in the world; to name a few: the Uffizi Gallery, Palazzo Vecchio, the Accademia Gallery, the Pitti Palace, Florence Cathedral and the Opera del Duomo museum, etc. Best Places To Visit In Florence, Tuscany, To Celebrate Its Art And Culture  With seven UNESCO World Heritage sites, Florence sees tourism as a key resource. Further, its average annual tourism revenue is 300 million euros, establishing its position as a global travel destination.  Further, Florence has places like San Casciano dei Bagni within 200 km that are growing as tourism hubs individually.  San Casciano dei Bagni has won the laurel of “Best Tourism Village” from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). This village is growing for its rich biodiversity and culture.  “San Casciano dei Bagni receiving the ‘Best Tourism Village’ recognition is a testament to the charm and authenticity of Italy’s smaller gems. These villages showcase the excellence of our craftsmanship, gastronomy, traditions, and culture, representing the heart of our national heritage.”Daniela Santanchè, Italian Tourism Minister Nevertheless, these are the best places to visit in Florence, Tuscany.  1. Piazza del Duomo Piazza del Duomo, with its bell tower, Baptistery, and cathedral, is one of the best places to visit in Florence, Tuscany. Also, don’t forget to visit Ponte Vecchio.  2. Uffizi Gallery Location: Piazzale degli Uffizi, 6, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy Hours Open: Tuesday-Sunday (8:15 AM to 6:30 PM), Monday Closed Uffizi Gallery houses the best collection of paintings and artwork from the medieval era to the modern period.  It was built between 1560 and 1580. 3. Piazza della Signoria Piazza della Signoria is the central square of Florence. It always has a lively ambiance and is Florence's epicenter of history and art.  4. Palazzo Vecchio Location: P.za della Signoria, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy Hours Open: Friday-Wednesday (9 AM to 7 PM), Thursday (9 AM to 2 PM) Palazzo Vecchio was built between 1299 and 1314 and was once the home and workplace of the Signoria of Florence.  5. The Accademia Gallery Location: Via Ricasoli, 58/60, 50129 Firenze FI, Italy Hours Open: 8:15 AM to 6:20 PM, (Monday Closed) The Accademia Gallery is home to David by Michelangelo. It is the second-most visited museum in Florence after the Uffizi Gallery.  6. Pitti Palace Location: Piazza de' Pitti, 1, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy Hours Open: Tuesday-Sunday (8:15 AM to 6:30 PM), Monday Closed Once a symbol of the power of the Medicis in Tuscany, Pitti Palace, or Palazzo Pitti, was also the seat of the House of Habsburg-Lorraine and House of Savoy.  7. Florence Cathedral Location: Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy Hours Open: 10:15 AM to 3:45 PM The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, or Florence Cathedral, is the Cathedral of the Catholic Archdiocese of Florence. The church, founded in 1296, was consecrated in 1436 by Pope Eugenio IV. It stands out with its huge dome structure.  8. Opera Del Duomo Museum Location: Piazza del Duomo, 9, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy Hours Open: 8:30 AM to 7 PM Built in 1891 and renovated in 2015, Opera Del Duomo Museum has the original artwork of the greatest artists and sculptors across seven centuries.  Here, you will find the work of Michelangelo, Brunelleschi, Ghiberti, and many others.  9. Florence City Center Covering an area of 505 ha, the Florence City Center still has the 14th-century boundary walls.  Also, it is a symbol of the Renaissance during the early Medici rule.  10. Siena City Center Siena City Center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Tuscan Hills. It is famous for its food scene and medieval buildings.  11. Pienza The Historic Centre of the City of Pienza is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is one of the best places to visit in Florence, Tuscany. It is also famous for its town-planning concepts during the Renaissance period.  12. San Gimignano San Gimignano, or the Town of Five Towers, will transport you to the medieval era. A preserved hill town, it also has Civic Museums, Contemporary art, and holy art.  13. Piazza Dei Miracoli (Pisa) The Piazza Dei Miracoli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, an architectural wonder.  Further, located in a port city, the Piazza Dei Miracoli is an expression of human creativity.  14. Villas And Giardini Medicei  With 14 villas and gardens, Villas And Giardini Medicei is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Tuscany.  One of the best places to visit in Florence, Tuscany, Villas and Giardini Medicei, gives you an insight into the family that played prominent roles in the history of Italy and Europe during the 15th-18th century.  15. Val d’Orcia Val d’Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, shows the beauty of the countryside in Southern Tuscany. It is famous for its ecological uniqueness and stunning landscape. Culture Also Means Food And Wine But the only culture of Florence in Tuscany is not only art & history, and it means food and wine as well. Florence is a food city (delicious food), and you really can’t go there without trying out its local specials: that’s part of the experience!  Things you should try in Florence: 1. CHIANTI WINE  Chianti wine is a red blend of Tuscany that is made from Sangiovese grapes. These are common tasting notes which include different types of red fruits, smoke, dried herbs, balsamic vinegar, and game. Perfect for any kind of aperitivo admiring monuments or to accompany your dinners in Florence!  2. PICI Pici is a type of fresh pasta, similar to spaghetti, which is made with water, flour, and salt. A simple preparation, typical of the Tuscan culinary tradition: a "poor" dish linked to peasant cuisine. They can be combined with different condiments, thanks to their ability to adapt to various preparations: you can, in fact, make them with cheese and pepper, with crumbs, with garlic, with ragù, and in many other ways. Yummy!  3. FIORENTINA One of the most popular Italian steak dishes, Bistecca Alla Fiorentina, is made of young steer or heifer that, in combination with the specific preparations. What preparations are turning it into one of the famous dishes in Tuscan cuisine.  It is a high cut, including the bone, and also cooked on the embers or on the grill, with a degree of "blood" cooking. Try to accompany this Florence in Tuscany special dish with your Chianti wine; a perfect combo.  Visit Florence For Its Welcoming People  Florence's inhabitants are something on their own; the Fiorentini are really strong characters, very different from the typical Italians international people know. The character of the Florentines is judged in a contradictory way. They are considered polite and honest, but their thriftiness, praised for being able to make money well, is often criticized. In Florence, people tend to say things to your face, and often when they do so, they are not too pleasant things. Don’t take it personally, it’s part of the culture! Learn some useful words:  Topping | Gnocchi Ganzo | Cool Grullo | A silly person Boncitto | A good guy Chetarsi | To be silent So Why Visit Florence? For many, Florence is a city they have only heard about, and important events and things to do, such as those in Rome or Venice, are not attributed to it. Wrong! Florence Is Full Of Things To Do!  Those who know the history of the world will know that Florence, with much of Italy, was the central hub of the Renaissance, and many works of art of the period can be found in this city. One of the most iconic sites that many are likely to recognize is the Duomo, a cathedral with a dome at its top.  The Galleria dell’Accademia in Florence also exhibits Michelangelo's David, one of the most famous sculptures in the world. When it comes to art and history, no one beats Florence for masterpieces! But there are also many fun activities for those who are not very interested in art. Tourists can take a day trip out of town and explore the wonderfully varied landscape of Florence in Tuscany. You can also taste local food and wines.  And events are also an option if you want to dive into the local culture for real. Music festivals, historical reviews, sports events, and much more! To learn everything about Florence and the reasons why you should visit it, learn more at www.ciaoflorence.it Reasons To Visit Florence In Tuscany |Ciao Florence Why should you visit Florence in Tuscany? Art, culture, food, and events. All you need to know about the city of Renaissance! Visit Ciao Florence. So when are you planning to visit Tuscany? Share your opinion through the comment sections. Additionals: Tattoo Bali – Tips Before Getting A Tattoo Canary Wharf: A Mini-Guide For Your Next Visit Top 3-Week Itineraries For A Perfect Tour Of Europe: T AND TB

BY  Abdul Aziz Sep 30, 2022

Yacht sailing is a great way to see places from a different perspective. Travellers experience fun water adventures and the natural beauty of underwater life. There is no denying that most tourist spots continue to compete for most adoration. Experiencing the water’s beauty is made possible with super yacht charters. Moreover, nothing is better than dining on a fancy super boat ride with your loved ones on vacation. Aside from the breathtaking view of the water, the different kinds of food on super yacht charters are to die for! Aside from superb food on board, sailing around will let you enjoy learning different cultural histories. Top 5 Yacht Charter Destinations! If you have plenty of time for a getaway, there are five excellent yacht charter destinations you should explore. 1. The Bahamas Most tourists are familiar with Nassau, and only a few have ventured into the Abacos or Exumas, also known as the “real Bahamas.” The warm turquoise waters and fine white beaches are what make them on the list of top yacht charter destinations. The Bahamas have idyllic island outposts perfect for sailing vacations. You may also enjoy diving for lobsters, swimming with nurse sharks, feeding swimming pigs, jet skiing through mangrove waterways, and snorkelling the caves. However, if you are tired of the day, you may simply relax and sip some champagne while enjoying the breathtaking view of the waters in the Bahamas. Most tourists, specifically scuba divers and snorkelers, say that the Bahamas is their favourite yacht charter destination. That is because the waters are crystal clear, the reefs are brimming with sea life, and the number of sea creatures you can surf with is utterly mind-blowing. The Bahamas is undoubtedly a textbook perfect for visitors who want to make the most of their vacation! 2. The United States and The British Virgin Islands First on the list are the United States (US) and the British Virgin Islands (BVI). These two are perfect for both first-timers and experienced sailors. The Caribbean islands are also a sight to see. US and BVI offer varied itineraries for visitors. You would not have to worry about visiting the same spots for days as they are all hard to resist. The islands offer an outstanding diving experience due to pristine coral reefs. They also have dreamy beaches with crystalline waters. At night, there are luxurious and fancy restaurants open for you to have fun. You can experience the best island life by going to clubs and drinking some fine beverages and beautiful cuisines. Additionally, there are elegant spas that you can enjoy if you want some quiet time. 3. Amalfi Coast, Italy European places are known for having attractive architectural landmarks. There is something magical and romantic among these places, and their shores are no different. Amalfi Coast, located on the southwestern shores of Italy, has been luring visitors from around the world since the Roman Times. It is one of the world’s most popular and splendid yacht charter destinations because of its picturesque view. You can see the abstract rock formations of the cliffs and vibrantly colourful towns near the shore. Amalfi Coast is also an excellent choice for those who make the most of their luxurious yacht charting experience. Aside from the unique pasta dishes and fine wines, the sunsets will make you fall more in love with the place. Sailing around the Amalfi Coast in Italy is ideal for lovers. Moreover, it is a brilliant yacht charter destination for people who want to taste a little bit of Italian cuisine. 4. Monaco and France European destinations like Monaco and France are great additions to luxury yacht adventures. You will discover many popular and fancy destinations along French Riviera and St. Tropez. If you are into sophisticated and calm factors, Côte d’Azur, located on the coastline of Monaco and France, has no rival. Your stomachs are not the only part of your body to get full and satisfied, but also your eyes.t is unbelievable not to fall in love with the centuries-old castles, charming fishing villages, cobblestone mediaeval town centres, and the famous Cannes and Monte Carlo. 5. Croatia Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast made it to the top luxury yacht destination list because of its massive size. This is an archipelago made up of thousands of striking islands with a total 2,500 miles long coastline. It is also known as among the most visited continents of all time. The tourist spots you may explore here are various palaces, castles, walled mediaeval towns, and fortresses. Moreover, restaurants serve freshly-caught seafood dishes, perfect for visitors who enjoy food tripping. A day or two is not enough if you visit Croatia. It has a lot to offer aside from sea activities. The locals are also friendly, so you would not have any difficulties blending with them. Additionals: A Beginner’s Guide To Island-Hopping In Greece Entertain Your Guests By Choosing A Private Yacht Charter In Maldives

BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 5, 2022

Alta, Utah, does not disappoint when it comes to offering the best and most memorable vacations. Whether you are into skiing, hiking, biking, walking, or relaxing and rejuvenating, you will find all the right spots to enjoy. This destination has something for every kind of traveler; with the right travel timing and properly planned trip, you will get the best it has it has to offer. Below is a highlight of some of the most scenic places you must visit. And near them, you will also find impressive Alta vacation rentals to suit your accommodation preferences.  Best Scenic Places In Alta, Utah | Into The Land Skiing Hard And Eating Well Alta has played a crucial role in the development of skiing in Utah. At the top of the Little Cottonwood Canyon, the Alta Ski Area has the best snow in the state.  It awakens an adventurous spirit among the tourists. However, along with the ski area, there are many other scenic places in Alta, Utah. 1. Devil's Castle This rugged, dark peak rises above Cecret Lake in Albion Basin. It is a beautiful place, with the castle offering a priceless backdrop with its high-quality rock. Unfortunately, the road leading here experiences substantial snowfall during fall, and the number of vehicles allowed is limited. However, you can enjoy some camping at Albion Basin grounds at an affordable fee. The Devil's Castle can be accessed using the Snowbird Ski Resort tram, so no worries if you find you cannot access it with your vehicle. It is a peaceful, exciting place that will easily relax your mind. 2. Cecret Lake Trail It is located at Albion Basin and features a small alpine lake. The Cecret Lake is a protected watershed supplying water to Salt Lake City. Additionally, it is part of Wasatch National Forest. The dirt trail hike from Little Cottonwood Canyon is most fulfilling, especially when it opens up to the quartz monzonite surroundings. The Snowbird and Alta ski resorts surround the lake. The scenic area will leave you feeling one with nature; it is one of the best places you can choose if you want to de-clutter your inner self. Nothing beats clean, fresh air in beautiful natural surroundings; this is exactly what you will get from the Cecret Lake trail.  3. Alta-Brighton Trailhead This loop trail will take you through scenic surroundings near Sandy, Utah. The 6.9KM trail is challenging and will take more than three hours to complete. It is perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing. If you wish for some solitude, you can hike it during low-traffic times of the day. You will particularly find the trailhead breathtaking when the wildflowers are fully bloomed. Alta-Brighton Trailhead is open throughout the year; enjoy its beauty anytime you visit Alta. For the ultimate experience, remember to carry your bug spray, water bottle, hiking boots, and sweatshirt.  4. Big Cottonwood Canyon The Big Cottonwood Canyon is within the Wasatch Range, a few miles Southeast of Salt Lake City. It covers 15 miles offering amazing areas for picnicking, camping, rock climbing, biking, and hiking. The canyon has popular ski resorts where you can also experience snowboarding at its best. It has lots of trails, with the most popular leading to Lake Blanche, Lilian, and Florence. Formed by the Big Cottonwood Creek, you will notice the canyon is V-shaped with rock forms that are quite impressive. It attracts botanical field trips, and wildflower walks from the local societies and institutions. This is the place to be if you love nature walks full of wildflowers.  5. Lake Blanche Trail This is the classic hiking spot in the Twin Peaks Wilderness area. It goes through aspen trees and scrubs oaks before opening up to stunning views of quartzite mountains and the Great Salt Lake. Summer afternoons can get quite hot, especially in the open areas. It is, therefore, advisable to take morning hikes and carry enough water because it is a steep trail that will drain you. Most notable on this trail are the Dromedary and Sundial Peaks, which rise above the lake, and the small lakes Lilian and Florence. You will love the dramatic views, especially near the lake and its iconic landscapes.  6. Catherine's Pass It offers easy passage to Big and Small Cottonwood Canyons. The Pass is a wildflower hike, and since it is on the Northern side, it offers beautiful views of Little Cottonwood's south ridge. Catherine's Pass offers impressive scenery, even better than Secret Lake, so you can explore while here. Additionally to the wildflowers, you will also love the grassy meadows and Big Cottonwood canyon views. It is a shorter hike thanks to the distance and elevation; however, if you love longer outings, you can consider descending to Lake Catherine or using the ridgelines East of Sunrise Peak. Whatever you choose, you will be impressed by the Pass.  7. Mount Wolverine This gem is hidden behind Mt. Millicent and is unfortunately overlooked most of the time. You get refreshing views of Little and Big Cottonwood Canyons from this peak. Thanks to its rugged cirque, it also makes a great spot for hiking and snow climbing. Winter and early spring make the best times to climb Mount Wolverine as snow climbs. The chutes penetrating the cliffs make interesting steep climbs, so come ready for some adventure. If you love camping, you will find the numerous walk-in campgrounds perfect for vacation trips.  8. Snowbird Tram Snowbird's aerial tram offers ten-minute rides to Hidden Peaks' top. Going 2,900 vertical feet up along a 1.6-mile cable will have your heart racing with excitement, especially if it's your first time. This tram is designed in such a way that it is also accessible by the handicapped, and so is the Hidden Peak terminal. So you get to enjoy sightseeing and a round trip taking about 40 minutes. During summer, the tram interchanges with a Peruvian chairlift, allowing you to enjoy both on the same trip. This tram was opened in 1971 and has continued serving amid many upgrades.  9. Alta Ski Area It was the first ski area in the US, so it remains a popular spot among skiers. You will love the renowned deep, steep powder skiing, especially during winter. You will find the terrain most suitable whether you are a beginner or an intermediate skier. If you are looking for a natural mountain environment for authentic skiing experiences, the Alta Ski Area is, without a doubt, the place to be. There is everything to love about the ski mountain here, so why not take your time and indulge? Tour And Travel Update The 15 ski resorts in Utah make it a skiing hotspot in the country. Alta Ski Area is one of the most celebrated skiing spots in the state. 2022-23 was a great season for Alta and other skiing zones in Utah, with a record number of visitors  However, the year 2024 has witnessed a downfall in the number of tourist footfall. This downfall in tourist numbers has been further triggered by less snowfall this year.  Though the amount of snowfall has surpassed the seasonal snowfall amount, it is less by at least 270 inches from the last year.  10. Twin Lake Pass  Hiking in the Wasatch Mountains is a great move to visit the best scenic places in Alta, Utah. Especially the trail to Twin Lakes from Silver Lake is beautiful. Hiking to the Twin Lake Pass is ideal in autumn and winter. In autumn, the trek route and surrounding area of the Lake look beautiful with the colors of fall.  Furthermore, the Twin Lake Pass, being an off-beat place in Alta, is a great escapade if you want a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.  11. Guardsman Pass Overlook Guardsman Pass Overlook is a scenic drive in the fall and summer seasons. The drive goes up to around 7 miles to reach the summit of 2962 Meters. During the fall and summer seasons, the pass is well-maintained with decent traffic conditions. However, in winter, it becomes a place of tourist attraction for a different reason. You can access this area through snowmobiles. Further, you can explore cross-country skiing and snowshoeing here.  Additionals: Best Alabama Cities For Young Professionals Explore These 5 Excellent Yacht Charter Destinations!