Sea Salt comes from Sicily

Sicily Salt Road Marsala Erice TrapaniA vacation in Sicily may evoke a myriad of images; uncontaminated landscapes, centuries-old traditions, Greek temples, delicious traditional food and a crystal clear sea. Stop by the beautiful Erice and drive along the unique Salt Road with the many red-roofed windmills. The white pyramids of the sea salt piled along the evaporation basin is just one of the many breath-taking views that will be stuck on your mind forever.

Langhe: Land of Kings, Wines and Truffles

Castle Grinzane Cavour Langhe Region Piedmont ItalyLooking for the perfect destination for a gourmet gateway? Ask Trips2Italy about the Langhe, in the Piedmont region. It is an area of gently undulating hills, ancient castles, medieval villages and vast vineyards where some of the finest specialties and wines (Barolo, Nebbiolo ) of the whole northern Italy are produced. Discover the taste of the truffles, the many fine wines and its culture in an enchanting undiscovered landscape.

Leaning Tower of Pisa: Bad or Luckiest Architect in History?

The Leaning Tower of Pisa viewThe Leaning Tower of Pisa, in the Tuscany region, is considered a must see. It’s a marvel and a miracle that attracts many tourists from all over the world. Did you know that it began to lean even before its construction was completed during the 12th century? Nowadays the current tilt makes an angle of 3.9 degrees from the vertical axis. Definitely impressive!

Naples and the Italian Royal Pizza

Naples making of Pizza Margherita Nat Geo picturesNaples is the southern culinary capital of Italy. The Pizza was born here in honor of Queen Margherita di Savoia in 1889. The queen was visiting the city ... Continue reading "Naples and the Italian Royal Pizza"

Sant’Antimo Abbey and the Gregorian Chants

Sant Antimo Abbey Montalcino Tuscany viewRight in the heart of the beautiful Tuscan region, not far from Siena and only 9 Km from Montalcino, sits the impressive Sant’Antimo Abbey, a must-see for anyone visiting the area. According to a legend, the abbey was founded by Charlemagne in 781 AC after he fell ill nearby and prayed for deliverance. Even though there is no evidence of this popular tale, it is quite likely he did make a stop that year (apparently in full health!) and set his seal on the foundation. In later times, the monastery served as a rest stop for pilgrims, merchants, Continue reading "Sant’Antimo Abbey and the Gregorian Chants"

Trips 2 Italy is moving to a New Houston’s Office Location

Trips2Italy move to new Houston officeDear Friends and Clients,
We are moving!
Beginning July 29, 2013, Trips 2 Italy will be located at
5701 Woodway Dr., Suite 220, Houston, TX 77057, (at the corner with Chimney Rock).
During this transition, we will continue to provide the same excellent service you have come to expect from us.
Please note that all other contact information will remain the same.
We appreciate you putting your trust in us and thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely,
Trips2Italy Staff

 

Pizzica and Tarantella: Folk Traditions of Apulia

Pizzica and Taranta DancersFolklore is a large part of Italy and even more so, in the Apulia region located in what is the heel of Italy’s “boot” shape. In this particular region, folk dances are very popular and have their roots in Ancient Greece. The “Pizzica” is a traditional dance popular throughout the Salentine peninsula along with the “Tarantella”. These ritualistic dances were performed in honor of the gods of music and sun (Apollo) and wine (Dionysus). Continue reading "Pizzica and Tarantella: Folk Traditions of Apulia"

Archaelogical site of Pompeii

Pompeii Naples Italy Acheological sites 13 BodiesThe archaeological site of Pompeii is one Italy’s and the world’s most popular tourist destinations. This ancient Roman city was destroyed by the volcanic ashes from a catastrophic eruption of Mt. Vesuvius on August 79 A.D. Today, one can see the well preserved remains of a city and its local population that was buried alive, later rediscovered in 1748.

Tuscan Sunflower Fields

Tuscany Italy sunflowers fields panoramaOne of Tuscany’s most famous and attractive landscapes is its never ending fields of sunflowers during the summer. Usually from June to August, one can enjoy a beautiful panorama of these lovely yellow flowers driving through the small winding roads through the enchanting Tuscan countryside only to be enhanced by the sight of cypress trees, an ancient church atop a hill, or a typical Tuscan farmhouse amidst the wilderness. Don’t let your friends tell you, ask a Trips2Italy travel specialist how to spend your vacation admiring the sunflowers “under the Tuscan sun”…

Rome Italy The Eternal City

Rome Italy Trevi Fountain in the Eternal City Rome is the “Eternal City” Your journey through Rome can take you from the modern age to the Renaissance age and from the Medieval to Ancient times in a matter of minutes. A simple tour walk can reveal the mysteries of the ages.  This is one of the city’s greatest pleasures!