Archive for 'Florence'

  

Arboring
If you are planning a visit to Florence between April and November and are looking to fill up an itinerary, you might consider looking into attractions that are a little off the beaten track and more varied. Typical itineraries of the area focus largely on culture, art and food and, while these are things that are key to any Tuscan visit, it is not all that the region has to offer.

In fact, there are many surprising adventures to be had in Tuscany. Just find a luxury villa in Florence and spend a few days of your trip trying out some of the more unexpected activities that are boasted by the city and the area around it.

One such option is a trip to Il Gigante Adventure Park.     Read More

  

St Antoninus
Mummies are probably not the first thing that comes to mind or that you associate with Florence, however, there is one lying on full view in one of her churches.

Resting in a glass coffin in the Dominican Church of San Marco in Florence is the 550 year-old mummified relic of St. Antoninus, dressed in his ornate archbishop’s garb. Interestingly, the man was made an archbishop against his wishes in the last 12 years of his life and only conceded when the pope threatened him with excommunication. He accepted the title but continued to live as a monk and only owned some simple furniture and a mule.

Once you have found a luxury villa in Florence and are exploring her churches and architectural gems, make sure to find time to stop by San Marco and learn about this fascinating man and both his life and death.     Read More

  

Ice-skating
If you have found a luxury villa in Florence and are spending time in that beautiful city this holiday season, there is one activity that you must make time for: ice-skating, of course! What better way to take a break between shopping and days wandering galleries and museums than to have fun on the ice?

It is the perfect activity for groups of friends, couples and families and is something everyone can enjoy. Just bundle up warm, strap on your skates, fly or flounder around the rink a few times and then warm up with some delicious Italian coffee or hot chocolate afterwards.

Florence is also a perfectly picturesque setting to go skating and there are a few different options of places to choose from.     Read More

  

Tortellini al Brodo
All over the world, people who celebrate Christmas do so with big meals that encourage the whole family to get together. In every country and culture, there are different traditions associated with the holiday and this is true of the food consumed as well. Tuscany, of course, has many traditional dishes that are served at Christmas.

One such dish, typical of Florence, is Tortellini al Brodo, which is comprised of tortellini served in a broth. This delicious dish is served as an early course and is presented with some freshly grated parmesan cheese on top. It is best tried in Tuscany once you have found a luxury villa in Florence but we also have a recipe prepared so that you can try it at home first.     Read More

  

Ballet
There is nothing else quite like a night at the ballet during the winter months. It is an absolutely lovely way to spend a cold evening: dressed elegantly but wrapped up warm, watching a stunning work of art unfold before your eyes, in a gorgeous and, probably, historic building and grabbing a drink and chatting with your party and other patrons during the interval.

Just find a luxury villa in Florence this winter and, between festive shopping trips, ice-skating, visits to Santa and coffee runs, squeeze in a night at the ballet.

It will be a memory that you will be able to treasure forever and is also sure to help get you in the mood for the holiday season!     Read More