Northampton is a large market town and the county town of Northamptonshire. It is in the East Midlands region of England, situated 108 km north of London on the River Nene.
During the 11th century the Normans built town walls and a large market grew under the stewardship of the Norman Earl Senlis. Later Northampton grew rapidly at the time of the Normans with the population reaching 1500 residents.
The town underwent rapid growth when new houses were built in housing estates at the beginning of the 20th century and by 1961 the population had increased to 100,000. Northampton Development Corporation was set up to increase the size of the town, targeting a population of 230,000 which was estimated to happen in 1981. But somehow the actual growth was much slower than they had planned for perhaps because of the emergence of its neighbor the new town of Milton Keynes.
Northampton is famous for Rugby, Cricket and Football. The league football club Northampton Town, also called as the Cobblers due to the town's long association with shoe making. Northampton Town plays at their new stadium at Sixfields Stadium on the edge of the town. This stadium has both an athletics track as well as a football ground which are both adjacent to each other. Northampton is today better known for its Rugby, Northampton's team is known as the "Saints." Probably their greatest moment was when they won the Heineken Cup in 2000 at Twickenham Stadium, beating their opponent Munster 9 - 8.
One of the main tourist attractions is "Cottesbrooke Hall and Gardens" This is a fine stately home that was built in 1702 with the "Arts and crafts garden" which was added in 1930. The garden is known as the pattern for Jane Austen's Mansfield Park. Althorp pronounced as "All - Thorp" is the country estate of the Spencer Family. Princess Diana grew up there and her brother the Earl Spencer now lives their and manages the estate.
The house was made originally of red brick and but later in the 18th century many modifications were made when Henry Holland was paid a huge commission for the task. Kelmarsh hall is an 18th century house which is built in a beautiful set of Romantic gardens. It is wonderful place to be when the garden is open to the public. Because of Kelmarsh's extensive parkland which is very attractive it is used for attractive outdoor events and shows.
Northampton is located near junctions 15, 15a, 16 of the M1 motorway. The 2 highways A45 and A43 go through the towns. The A45 goes through East Birmingham bypassing Coventry and Rugby. The A14 runs all the way to the port of Felixstowe.
In addition to great road connections Northampton has direct rail connections to London (Euston) and Birmingham. You can also get connecting trains to Liverpool, Manchester, North Wales, Crewe, Glasgow and the Lake District all on the West Coast Mainline.
I hope you enjoyed reading this tourist information and travel guide to Northampton. Please look out for the next instalment which will reveal some more interesting facts about my city.
About the Author:
Jamie Watters - CityLocal Northampton Business Directory Northampton Northampton Business Directory Northampton News
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Amanpuri Resort Phuket Thailand by Maypopup M.
After reading our article, you can impress your friends with the amazing amount of knowledge you have gained on this subject.
Amanpuri hotel in Phuket has a sincere background and a calm surrounding. Amanpuri hotel is located near the Pansea coastline in Phuket. This hotel is situated in the sultry plot part of Phuket, which is lovely and captivating. As a luxury resort, it is sole and unparalleled. It is because of the vanguard maintenance and extraordinary army, Amanpuri hotel in Phuket has been rated as a five star resort.
Amanpuri hotel in Phuket won prestigious awards for its military. Among them, the Conde Nast medal and trek and Leisure medal are the predominant ones.
The site of Amanpuri hotel in Phuket is very significant. It takes just 25 notes to make the Phuket Island. The Phuket airport too is very close. It is from the Amanpuri hotel, that you can like the best outlook of the Andaman Sea. The long stretched sandes, with superb coconut plants operation across, are the marvels of the spot.
So far as the extent army at Amanpuri Hotel in Phuket are troubled, the hotel does not bequeath any loophole in its army. The quarters are well furnished. Every luxury costume is bejeweled with a emperor bulk bed and other services. The bathquarters too are very fashionable, with secede hand shower and pour bathtubs. Dining at Amanpuri Hotel in Phuket is also a lovely and elaborate business. There are continental restaurants preparing Italian and traditional Thai food. The coastline restaurants and bars are also there to assist you sensational dishes of the peak lesson.
Among other services and army, there are children's squares, children's swimming lake, coastline clubs, gym, store, luxury boutique and many more. For more information browse through the part condition and Recreation at Amanpuri Hotel in Phuket .
For the rest of this article, we will discuss the meaning behind what we have learned about this subject so far.
So far as the extent army at Amanpuri Hotel in Phuket are troubled, the hotel does not bequeath any loophole in its army. The quarters are well furnished. Every luxury costume is bejeweled with a emperor bulk bed and other services. The bathquarters too are very fashionable, with secede hand shower and pour bathtubs. Dining at Amanpuri Hotel in Phuket is also a lovely and elaborate business. There are continental restaurants preparing Italian and traditional Thai food. The coastline restaurants and bars are also there to assist you sensational dishes of the peak lesson.
Among other services and military, there are children's squares, children's swimming merge, coast clubs, gym, annals, luxury boutique and many more. For more information browse through the portion aptness and Recreation at Amanpuri Hotel in Phuket .
Amanpuri hotel in Phuket also prepares health and recreation programs. There are expressly maintained spas and knead centers. Other inside and outside playoffs will also help you in your health and recreation programs. The Other services and army at Amanpuri Hotel in Phuket contain a car square, disabled facilities and move and tourism guidance.
Amanpuri hotel in Phuket will hence be an paradigm destination both for the leisure tourists and marriage couples. It is a place where people come to people and overcome the enchanting beauty of type.
If you need help with this subject, or do not know how to begin, there are several free resources on related websites to give you a boost.
About the Author:
Maypopup M. is the Owner of Phuket Hotels Smart Choice of Booking Hotel, Golf Course , Water Activities , DayTip All Phuket Thailand With Free Coupon discont up 50% , Free Travel Insurance More at http://www.hotel2phuket.com/
Amanpuri hotel in Phuket has a sincere background and a calm surrounding. Amanpuri hotel is located near the Pansea coastline in Phuket. This hotel is situated in the sultry plot part of Phuket, which is lovely and captivating. As a luxury resort, it is sole and unparalleled. It is because of the vanguard maintenance and extraordinary army, Amanpuri hotel in Phuket has been rated as a five star resort.
Amanpuri hotel in Phuket won prestigious awards for its military. Among them, the Conde Nast medal and trek and Leisure medal are the predominant ones.
The site of Amanpuri hotel in Phuket is very significant. It takes just 25 notes to make the Phuket Island. The Phuket airport too is very close. It is from the Amanpuri hotel, that you can like the best outlook of the Andaman Sea. The long stretched sandes, with superb coconut plants operation across, are the marvels of the spot.
So far as the extent army at Amanpuri Hotel in Phuket are troubled, the hotel does not bequeath any loophole in its army. The quarters are well furnished. Every luxury costume is bejeweled with a emperor bulk bed and other services. The bathquarters too are very fashionable, with secede hand shower and pour bathtubs. Dining at Amanpuri Hotel in Phuket is also a lovely and elaborate business. There are continental restaurants preparing Italian and traditional Thai food. The coastline restaurants and bars are also there to assist you sensational dishes of the peak lesson.
Among other services and army, there are children's squares, children's swimming lake, coastline clubs, gym, store, luxury boutique and many more. For more information browse through the part condition and Recreation at Amanpuri Hotel in Phuket .
For the rest of this article, we will discuss the meaning behind what we have learned about this subject so far.
So far as the extent army at Amanpuri Hotel in Phuket are troubled, the hotel does not bequeath any loophole in its army. The quarters are well furnished. Every luxury costume is bejeweled with a emperor bulk bed and other services. The bathquarters too are very fashionable, with secede hand shower and pour bathtubs. Dining at Amanpuri Hotel in Phuket is also a lovely and elaborate business. There are continental restaurants preparing Italian and traditional Thai food. The coastline restaurants and bars are also there to assist you sensational dishes of the peak lesson.
Among other services and military, there are children's squares, children's swimming merge, coast clubs, gym, annals, luxury boutique and many more. For more information browse through the portion aptness and Recreation at Amanpuri Hotel in Phuket .
Amanpuri hotel in Phuket also prepares health and recreation programs. There are expressly maintained spas and knead centers. Other inside and outside playoffs will also help you in your health and recreation programs. The Other services and army at Amanpuri Hotel in Phuket contain a car square, disabled facilities and move and tourism guidance.
Amanpuri hotel in Phuket will hence be an paradigm destination both for the leisure tourists and marriage couples. It is a place where people come to people and overcome the enchanting beauty of type.
If you need help with this subject, or do not know how to begin, there are several free resources on related websites to give you a boost.
About the Author:
Maypopup M. is the Owner of Phuket Hotels Smart Choice of Booking Hotel, Golf Course , Water Activities , DayTip All Phuket Thailand With Free Coupon discont up 50% , Free Travel Insurance More at http://www.hotel2phuket.com/
Cheap Disney Vacation Packages by T. Houser
As you may already know, one of the most well known theme park destinations in the world is Disney World. Millions of visitors each year are attracted to visit. Most of them are kids; it is the dream vacation destination. Many different types of cheap Disney Vacation packages are available online and through a tour agency.
However, if you want to find cheap Disney vacation packages, it is going to require a little more research. Before you take the steps needed to find the right option for you and your family, you are going to need to determine what type of budget you have. It can be very difficult and confusing to choose a package if you do not know how much money you are willing to invest in the vacation altogether because there is a very wide variety of options that are available.
One way that you should be able to determine your budget is to estimate the total cost of cheap Disney vacation packages. When you are determining the total cost, you need to make sure that you include food and lodging. There are also other factors that need to be taken into consideration as well and they are park rides, park admissions, car rental if you are going to need to rent a vehicle, souvenirs and some extra cash just in case you need it. Once you have gathered all of the expenses, you are going to need to mark them up by twenty percent because the stuff that is available in Disney World is not going to be cheap.
In order to find cheap Disney vacation packages online, you are going to need to plan ahead of time so that you have plenty of time to do the research needed. If possible, you are going to need to try to plan your vacation during the parks off-season so that you can save some money. If you go during the off-season, you can save around forty percent of the normal cost.
When you are going through the cheap Disney vacation packages to find the one that is just right for your family, you are going to need to make sure that you read all of the information. In the information, you will also need to make sure that you ask questions about statements and information you are not able to understand. You also need to make sure that you ask information that you need to know that is not included in the package.
Most of the time, the cheap Disney vacation packages are going to include park tickets to the attractions in Disney World that are most popular and lodging. There are some packages that are available that will cover your meals while you are there as well. However, on the other hand, some packages will only cover your admission to the Park.
There are many times that first timers are going to find that there are too many attractions that they have the opportunity to visit and there is not enough time in the day to visit all of the attractions. When viewing the cheap Disney vacation packages, you need to make sure that you choose only a couple of attractions that you want to be included in your particular package.
About the Author:
Our site provides information on Cheap Disney Vacation Packages, along with European discount cruises and other interesting travel related information. by T.D. Houser
However, if you want to find cheap Disney vacation packages, it is going to require a little more research. Before you take the steps needed to find the right option for you and your family, you are going to need to determine what type of budget you have. It can be very difficult and confusing to choose a package if you do not know how much money you are willing to invest in the vacation altogether because there is a very wide variety of options that are available.
One way that you should be able to determine your budget is to estimate the total cost of cheap Disney vacation packages. When you are determining the total cost, you need to make sure that you include food and lodging. There are also other factors that need to be taken into consideration as well and they are park rides, park admissions, car rental if you are going to need to rent a vehicle, souvenirs and some extra cash just in case you need it. Once you have gathered all of the expenses, you are going to need to mark them up by twenty percent because the stuff that is available in Disney World is not going to be cheap.
In order to find cheap Disney vacation packages online, you are going to need to plan ahead of time so that you have plenty of time to do the research needed. If possible, you are going to need to try to plan your vacation during the parks off-season so that you can save some money. If you go during the off-season, you can save around forty percent of the normal cost.
When you are going through the cheap Disney vacation packages to find the one that is just right for your family, you are going to need to make sure that you read all of the information. In the information, you will also need to make sure that you ask questions about statements and information you are not able to understand. You also need to make sure that you ask information that you need to know that is not included in the package.
Most of the time, the cheap Disney vacation packages are going to include park tickets to the attractions in Disney World that are most popular and lodging. There are some packages that are available that will cover your meals while you are there as well. However, on the other hand, some packages will only cover your admission to the Park.
There are many times that first timers are going to find that there are too many attractions that they have the opportunity to visit and there is not enough time in the day to visit all of the attractions. When viewing the cheap Disney vacation packages, you need to make sure that you choose only a couple of attractions that you want to be included in your particular package.
About the Author:
Our site provides information on Cheap Disney Vacation Packages, along with European discount cruises and other interesting travel related information. by T.D. Houser
Great Holiday Rental Villas In Cyprus by Tim Martins
If you are to Cyprus on holiday, then it would be incomplete without a rental villa. They really are renowned for their top quality 24 hour service. You can choose either a villa or an apartment close to the beach and there arte a variety of options available.
When you wish to enjoy the worldly pleasures at Cyprus, why deprive yourself from the luxuries of an exclusive private villa. You can also get rental properties at much lower costs giving you access to the very best in Cyprus. Locating Holiday Villas in Cyprus with all modern facilities in a traditional backdrop is easy with just some quick research through traditional travel guides.
You will find many rental villas throughout the island with extremely competitive prices. The Coral Bay Villas are a prime example of holiday rentals that are found on the coast right by the Mediterranean Sea and ideal for those who enjoy water sports.
There are many private and remote villas for peace and tranquillity. Those tourists, who want a secluded house away from the hustle and bustle of city life or wish to stay away from the crowd, will find quite remote villas tucked away in every corner of the Island to their taste and liking.
The more festive occasions like weddings are also catered for with larger villas, with up to 10 bedrooms and large terrace areas. Therefore the whole wedding party can enjoy their special day together under one roof in the midst of the island paradise called Cyprus.
If you are on the lookout for villas with hot pools for those wintry vacations, then villas in Pervolia and Kato Paphos offer private pools and garden areas for your perfect vacation. Villas on golfing terrains for the golfer in you can be located in the Secret Valley Resort that is best known for the golfing actions and sports. Villas with added services like car or deluxe bus is very essential for newcomers.
The majority of the holiday villas in Cyprus are stylish with all the modern amenities for an easy lifestyle and the ultimate in comfort with air-conditioned rooms, ultra modern kitchens, large patios, lovely gardens and private swimming pools. You will find everything which offers a comfortable and luxurious stay and all this through cheap rental prices.
The 'Villa Club' is an ideal family retreat found just west of Kyrenia and offers a variety of Cyprus rental villas situated in a paradise of greenery, orange and lemon orchards and facing onto the Mediterranean Sea. The amazing golden beaches offer a variety of water activities including skiing and scuba diving. The villas are just as short drive from the airport and within walking distance of shops and restaurants and everything is very well connected by the public transport system.
The Villa "clubhouses" give accommodation facilities to families and friends up to four to five persons in all. There are self-service studios for breakfast and lunch, complete with cold-water storage fridges and tea or coffee making amenities and all Cyprus villas come standard with a quality lifestyle.
In general the Cyprus holiday villas are either privately owned by locals or by holiday package tour companies. They provide every possible comfort that you would find in a hotel or hostel and only lack in the rules and regulations found in these larger accommodation facilities. Apart from that you will enjoy the feeling of complete privacy and seclusion, unlike that which you would experience in a hotel.
About the Author:
Check out this Free Cyprus Holiday Rental Newsletter And Blog A Creation of the renowned Tim Martins
When you wish to enjoy the worldly pleasures at Cyprus, why deprive yourself from the luxuries of an exclusive private villa. You can also get rental properties at much lower costs giving you access to the very best in Cyprus. Locating Holiday Villas in Cyprus with all modern facilities in a traditional backdrop is easy with just some quick research through traditional travel guides.
You will find many rental villas throughout the island with extremely competitive prices. The Coral Bay Villas are a prime example of holiday rentals that are found on the coast right by the Mediterranean Sea and ideal for those who enjoy water sports.
There are many private and remote villas for peace and tranquillity. Those tourists, who want a secluded house away from the hustle and bustle of city life or wish to stay away from the crowd, will find quite remote villas tucked away in every corner of the Island to their taste and liking.
The more festive occasions like weddings are also catered for with larger villas, with up to 10 bedrooms and large terrace areas. Therefore the whole wedding party can enjoy their special day together under one roof in the midst of the island paradise called Cyprus.
If you are on the lookout for villas with hot pools for those wintry vacations, then villas in Pervolia and Kato Paphos offer private pools and garden areas for your perfect vacation. Villas on golfing terrains for the golfer in you can be located in the Secret Valley Resort that is best known for the golfing actions and sports. Villas with added services like car or deluxe bus is very essential for newcomers.
The majority of the holiday villas in Cyprus are stylish with all the modern amenities for an easy lifestyle and the ultimate in comfort with air-conditioned rooms, ultra modern kitchens, large patios, lovely gardens and private swimming pools. You will find everything which offers a comfortable and luxurious stay and all this through cheap rental prices.
The 'Villa Club' is an ideal family retreat found just west of Kyrenia and offers a variety of Cyprus rental villas situated in a paradise of greenery, orange and lemon orchards and facing onto the Mediterranean Sea. The amazing golden beaches offer a variety of water activities including skiing and scuba diving. The villas are just as short drive from the airport and within walking distance of shops and restaurants and everything is very well connected by the public transport system.
The Villa "clubhouses" give accommodation facilities to families and friends up to four to five persons in all. There are self-service studios for breakfast and lunch, complete with cold-water storage fridges and tea or coffee making amenities and all Cyprus villas come standard with a quality lifestyle.
In general the Cyprus holiday villas are either privately owned by locals or by holiday package tour companies. They provide every possible comfort that you would find in a hotel or hostel and only lack in the rules and regulations found in these larger accommodation facilities. Apart from that you will enjoy the feeling of complete privacy and seclusion, unlike that which you would experience in a hotel.
About the Author:
Check out this Free Cyprus Holiday Rental Newsletter And Blog A Creation of the renowned Tim Martins
Thursday, January 3, 2008
I Love Touring Italy - Bergamo and Lake Como by Levi Reiss
If you are hankering for a European vacation, why don't you consider the city of Bergamo and Lake Como in the Lombardy region of northern Italy? Depending on your particular interests, this beautiful area might be an ideal vacation spot. You can savor classic Italian food, and wash it down with fine local wine. It is hardly undiscovered, but that shouldn't stop you from going. With a little effort you should be able to find some relatively untouched spots. Be sure to read the companion articles in this series that present Milan, small town Lombardy outside of its capital Milan, and the Lake Garda district with its interesting political past.
We start our Lombardy tour at Bergamo east of the capital Milan. Then we head northeast to the shores of Lake Como and tour the lake in a counterclockwise direction exploring Bellagio, Villa Melzi, and Como at the southern tip of the lake and then head back up north stopping at the island of Isola Comacina, and then finishing our tour at Tremezzo with its centerpiece Villa Carlotta. For those who want to tour still more of this lovely region head west to Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta. You won't be disappointed.
Bergamo, population about 120,000, was founded by the Celts well over two thousand years ago. It is the only city mentioned here that is not on or near a lake, but really that shouldn't stop you from visiting. This medieval city, tucked behind ancient walls, overlooks or perhaps we should say underlooks the Alps. It is divided into two sectors connected by funiculars (cable cars); the older Bergamo Alta (Upper Bergamo) and the modern Bergamo Bassa (Lower Bergamo). Can you guess which Bergamo I prefer?
The large Romanesque Church of Santa Maria Maggiore was started in the Twelfth Century but its construction went on for centuries. The Torre Civica (Bell Tower) was completed near the end of the Fifteenth Century. The church sits right on the Piazza Vecchia (Old Square) in Bergamo Alta. Climb to the top for a great view of the Old City.
Bergamo was the birthplace and home of Gaetano Donizetti (1797-1848), composer of some 75 operas including the famous Lucia di Lammermoor, 16 symphonies, and a multitude of other musical works. He is buried in the Santa Maria Maggiore Church. If you like opera visit the Museo Donizettiano (Donizetti Museum.)
The Cathedral of San Vincenzo and Battistero are both situated on Piazza Duomo (Cathedral Square), the old heart of the medieval city and in all likelihood the heart of the Roman city way back when. Their more beautiful neighbor is the Fifteenth Century Renaissance Capella Colleoni (Colleoni Chapel).
Lake Como is a glacial lake shaped like an upside Y. It is about 28 miles (54 kilometers) long and at most 2 miles (3 kilometers) wide making it the third largest lake in Italy. Lake Como is one of the deepest lakes in all Europe.
Bellagio, population three thousand, sits at the center of Lake Como's Y. It was a tourist center even in the days of the Romans. The famous composers Liszt and Schubert vacationed here, as did the writers Pliny the Elder (Classical Roman), Longfellow, and Shelley. This town is so special that Las Vegas has honored it with a hotel. I don't need to see both Bellagios to know which one I prefer. Try to get here outside the high season of July and August.
Be sure to see the Villa Serbelloni surrounded by acres and acres of gardens laid out in a multitude of styles. It is now an international conference center for scholars and artists.
Back in 1801-1803 Count Francesco Melzi d'Eril was Vice-President of Napoleon's Italian Republic. Several years later, perhaps to drown his sorrows over the Republic's brevity, he built the Neo-Classical Villa Melzi in the south end of Bellagio right on the lake. Its garden, the only part of the Villa open to the public, is probably the oldest English garden on Lake Como. The garden includes a Japanese pond with waterlilies surrounded by Japanese maples and cedars, Egyptian sculptures, and Roman statues.
Como, population about sixty thousand, is situated at the very southern tip of Lake Como. Can you believe it took Lombardy's capital city Milan almost a decade to defeat little Como way back in the Twelfth Century? Not very long afterwards, Frederick I, the Holy Roman Emperor, destroyed Milan and built several defensive towers ringing Como. Only the Bardadello Tower still remains. Climb up it and get a great view of the entire lake.
Like most Italian cities, Como has a fine series of old churches to tour. Here are some of them: The Duomo (Cathedral) a Fourteenth Century Renaissance-Gothic structure with statues of two of the city's most famous residents, Pliny the Elder and Pliny the Younger from Classical Roman times; San Fedele, an Eleventh Century Romanesque church with a beautifully carved door; and Sant'Agostino, Fourteenth Century Cistercian church with old frescoes and Baroque decorations.
Italy produces over 90% of Europe's silk and most Italian silk is produced in the Como region. Italian silk is a billion Euro (far exceeding a billion Dollar) industry. Find out more at the Museo Didacttico della Seta (Silk Museum). You can shop for fine silks at many nearby stores and warehouse outlets.
Isola Comacina (Comacina Island) is the only island in Lake Como. Do you remember the wars between Como and Milan? Well at that time the island residents sided with Milan and there was hell to pay. In the words of the then Bishop "No longer shall bells ring, no stone shall be put on stone, nobody shall be host, under pain of unnatural death." At the start of World War I Isola Comacina was given to the King of Belgium who donated it to Italy after the war. It is now home to artists and scholars.
Head north to the resort town Tremezzo, population 1300. Its highlight is Villa Carlotta, built during a fifty some year period starting towards the end of the Seventeenth Century. When you see this villa you'll know why it took so long to construct. The grounds are spectacular, for example they include over 150 varieties of azelias and rhododendrons. Its art museum is dedicated to neoclassical art. For a change of pace, visit the Museum of Agricultural Tools located in an ancient greenhouse on the property. While you can't stay at the Villa Carlotta, the Grand Hotel Tremezzo is definitely quite classy.
What about food? In this part of Lombardy the cuisine is divided into three main sectors. The lake cuisine specializes in fish with some local favorites such as dried shad. The area around Tremezzo is known for vegetables such as asparagus. The mountain cuisine is based on polenta, a sort of corn bread often flavored with cheese or cheese, butter, and garlic. Other mountain specialties include free-range chickens, kid, and game. The third category is valley cuisine based on cattle and cheese, especially Taleggio and various goat milk cheeses.
Let's suggest a sample menu, one of many. Start with Fettuccine con Funghi (Fettuccine with Mushrooms.) Then try Agnoni all Comasca (Lake Como Fried Fish with Anchovy Filets). For dessert indulge yourself with Torte Paradiso con Mascarpone (Sponge Cake with Mascarpone Cheese.) Be sure to increase your dining pleasure by including local wines with your meal.
We conclude with a quick look at Lombardy wine. Lombardy ranks 11th among the 20 Italian regions for both acreage devoted to wine grapes and for total annual wine production. The region produces about 62% red and rosé and 38% white wine, but there is little rosé. There are 15 DOC wines. DOC stands for Denominazione di Origine Controllata, which may be translated as Denomination of Controlled Origin, presumably a high-quality wine. The G in DOCG stands for Garantita, but there is in fact no guarantee that such wines are truly superior. Over 47% of Lombardy wine carries the DOC or DOCG designation. There are three DOCG wines: the sparkling Franciacorta said to compete with French Champagne and priced accordingly, the red Sforzato di Valtellina, and the red Valtellina Superiore.
Interestingly enough no DOC wines originate in the vicinity of Lake Como, Lake Orta, or Lake Maggiore. However, Bergamo is home to two DOC wines, Valcalepio and Scanzo/Moscato di Scanzo. The Valcalepio DOC is vinified in several styles. The dry red and the dry white come from international grape varieties such as Merlot and Chardonnay. The sweet white wine comes from a local grape and has recently been classified at the Scanzo/Moscato di Scanzo DOC. I have not had the pleasure of tasting either of these wines. I have had the disappointment of tasting the sparkling Franciacorta DOCG wine made not far east of Bergamo.
About the Author:
Levi Reiss has authored alone or with a co-author ten books on computers and the Internet but he would rather just drink fine Italian or other wine, accompanied by the right foods. He knows about dieting but now eats and drinks what he wants, in moderation. He teaches various computer classes in an Ontario French-language community college. His new wine, diet, health, and nutrition website http://www.wineinyourdiet.com links to his other sites.
We start our Lombardy tour at Bergamo east of the capital Milan. Then we head northeast to the shores of Lake Como and tour the lake in a counterclockwise direction exploring Bellagio, Villa Melzi, and Como at the southern tip of the lake and then head back up north stopping at the island of Isola Comacina, and then finishing our tour at Tremezzo with its centerpiece Villa Carlotta. For those who want to tour still more of this lovely region head west to Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta. You won't be disappointed.
Bergamo, population about 120,000, was founded by the Celts well over two thousand years ago. It is the only city mentioned here that is not on or near a lake, but really that shouldn't stop you from visiting. This medieval city, tucked behind ancient walls, overlooks or perhaps we should say underlooks the Alps. It is divided into two sectors connected by funiculars (cable cars); the older Bergamo Alta (Upper Bergamo) and the modern Bergamo Bassa (Lower Bergamo). Can you guess which Bergamo I prefer?
The large Romanesque Church of Santa Maria Maggiore was started in the Twelfth Century but its construction went on for centuries. The Torre Civica (Bell Tower) was completed near the end of the Fifteenth Century. The church sits right on the Piazza Vecchia (Old Square) in Bergamo Alta. Climb to the top for a great view of the Old City.
Bergamo was the birthplace and home of Gaetano Donizetti (1797-1848), composer of some 75 operas including the famous Lucia di Lammermoor, 16 symphonies, and a multitude of other musical works. He is buried in the Santa Maria Maggiore Church. If you like opera visit the Museo Donizettiano (Donizetti Museum.)
The Cathedral of San Vincenzo and Battistero are both situated on Piazza Duomo (Cathedral Square), the old heart of the medieval city and in all likelihood the heart of the Roman city way back when. Their more beautiful neighbor is the Fifteenth Century Renaissance Capella Colleoni (Colleoni Chapel).
Lake Como is a glacial lake shaped like an upside Y. It is about 28 miles (54 kilometers) long and at most 2 miles (3 kilometers) wide making it the third largest lake in Italy. Lake Como is one of the deepest lakes in all Europe.
Bellagio, population three thousand, sits at the center of Lake Como's Y. It was a tourist center even in the days of the Romans. The famous composers Liszt and Schubert vacationed here, as did the writers Pliny the Elder (Classical Roman), Longfellow, and Shelley. This town is so special that Las Vegas has honored it with a hotel. I don't need to see both Bellagios to know which one I prefer. Try to get here outside the high season of July and August.
Be sure to see the Villa Serbelloni surrounded by acres and acres of gardens laid out in a multitude of styles. It is now an international conference center for scholars and artists.
Back in 1801-1803 Count Francesco Melzi d'Eril was Vice-President of Napoleon's Italian Republic. Several years later, perhaps to drown his sorrows over the Republic's brevity, he built the Neo-Classical Villa Melzi in the south end of Bellagio right on the lake. Its garden, the only part of the Villa open to the public, is probably the oldest English garden on Lake Como. The garden includes a Japanese pond with waterlilies surrounded by Japanese maples and cedars, Egyptian sculptures, and Roman statues.
Como, population about sixty thousand, is situated at the very southern tip of Lake Como. Can you believe it took Lombardy's capital city Milan almost a decade to defeat little Como way back in the Twelfth Century? Not very long afterwards, Frederick I, the Holy Roman Emperor, destroyed Milan and built several defensive towers ringing Como. Only the Bardadello Tower still remains. Climb up it and get a great view of the entire lake.
Like most Italian cities, Como has a fine series of old churches to tour. Here are some of them: The Duomo (Cathedral) a Fourteenth Century Renaissance-Gothic structure with statues of two of the city's most famous residents, Pliny the Elder and Pliny the Younger from Classical Roman times; San Fedele, an Eleventh Century Romanesque church with a beautifully carved door; and Sant'Agostino, Fourteenth Century Cistercian church with old frescoes and Baroque decorations.
Italy produces over 90% of Europe's silk and most Italian silk is produced in the Como region. Italian silk is a billion Euro (far exceeding a billion Dollar) industry. Find out more at the Museo Didacttico della Seta (Silk Museum). You can shop for fine silks at many nearby stores and warehouse outlets.
Isola Comacina (Comacina Island) is the only island in Lake Como. Do you remember the wars between Como and Milan? Well at that time the island residents sided with Milan and there was hell to pay. In the words of the then Bishop "No longer shall bells ring, no stone shall be put on stone, nobody shall be host, under pain of unnatural death." At the start of World War I Isola Comacina was given to the King of Belgium who donated it to Italy after the war. It is now home to artists and scholars.
Head north to the resort town Tremezzo, population 1300. Its highlight is Villa Carlotta, built during a fifty some year period starting towards the end of the Seventeenth Century. When you see this villa you'll know why it took so long to construct. The grounds are spectacular, for example they include over 150 varieties of azelias and rhododendrons. Its art museum is dedicated to neoclassical art. For a change of pace, visit the Museum of Agricultural Tools located in an ancient greenhouse on the property. While you can't stay at the Villa Carlotta, the Grand Hotel Tremezzo is definitely quite classy.
What about food? In this part of Lombardy the cuisine is divided into three main sectors. The lake cuisine specializes in fish with some local favorites such as dried shad. The area around Tremezzo is known for vegetables such as asparagus. The mountain cuisine is based on polenta, a sort of corn bread often flavored with cheese or cheese, butter, and garlic. Other mountain specialties include free-range chickens, kid, and game. The third category is valley cuisine based on cattle and cheese, especially Taleggio and various goat milk cheeses.
Let's suggest a sample menu, one of many. Start with Fettuccine con Funghi (Fettuccine with Mushrooms.) Then try Agnoni all Comasca (Lake Como Fried Fish with Anchovy Filets). For dessert indulge yourself with Torte Paradiso con Mascarpone (Sponge Cake with Mascarpone Cheese.) Be sure to increase your dining pleasure by including local wines with your meal.
We conclude with a quick look at Lombardy wine. Lombardy ranks 11th among the 20 Italian regions for both acreage devoted to wine grapes and for total annual wine production. The region produces about 62% red and rosé and 38% white wine, but there is little rosé. There are 15 DOC wines. DOC stands for Denominazione di Origine Controllata, which may be translated as Denomination of Controlled Origin, presumably a high-quality wine. The G in DOCG stands for Garantita, but there is in fact no guarantee that such wines are truly superior. Over 47% of Lombardy wine carries the DOC or DOCG designation. There are three DOCG wines: the sparkling Franciacorta said to compete with French Champagne and priced accordingly, the red Sforzato di Valtellina, and the red Valtellina Superiore.
Interestingly enough no DOC wines originate in the vicinity of Lake Como, Lake Orta, or Lake Maggiore. However, Bergamo is home to two DOC wines, Valcalepio and Scanzo/Moscato di Scanzo. The Valcalepio DOC is vinified in several styles. The dry red and the dry white come from international grape varieties such as Merlot and Chardonnay. The sweet white wine comes from a local grape and has recently been classified at the Scanzo/Moscato di Scanzo DOC. I have not had the pleasure of tasting either of these wines. I have had the disappointment of tasting the sparkling Franciacorta DOCG wine made not far east of Bergamo.
About the Author:
Levi Reiss has authored alone or with a co-author ten books on computers and the Internet but he would rather just drink fine Italian or other wine, accompanied by the right foods. He knows about dieting but now eats and drinks what he wants, in moderation. He teaches various computer classes in an Ontario French-language community college. His new wine, diet, health, and nutrition website http://www.wineinyourdiet.com links to his other sites.
Sweden Hotels by Nancy Eben
Sited on the Scandinavian Peninsula in the region of Northern Europe, Sweden is among the most sought after holiday destination. Sweden offers a gamut of attractions and surprises to visitors and tourists. High on natural splendors in Sweden you will find lush forests, glaciers, cascading river streams, pristine lakes and mighty mountain ranges... natural beauty is galore here. If the capital city Stockholm boasts of an ultra modern ambience then the region around Mountain Kebnekaise is a hot spot for many hikers and adventure seekers. Be it indulging in adventure sports, strolling by busy streets or relaxing in the laps of nature... Sweden offers it all. Like Sweden, like Sweden Hotels. Well equipped with all the necessary facilities, Sweden Hotels make sure that each of their guests is as comfy as it gets. Particular about the pleasures of guests the hotels of Sweden will make your trip a memorable one.
Stockholm
Deemed as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Stockholm is the capital city of Sweden. The city is basically spread over 14 islands that lie between Stockholm Archipelago and Lake Mälaren. In the center is located the Old Town also known as Gamla Stan and Riddarholmen. Together the two boast of being called the largest and the well preserved medieval European city core that prides itself on a history dating back to as old as the 13th century. In the region of Gamla Stan is a great place to hit as here you will find many interesting palaces and historical monuments. Among the best sight is Royal Palace that is the largest one of its kind in Northern Europe.
Gothenburg
The city of Gothenburg is the second biggest town in Sweden. A popular destination, Gothenburg is also the cultural and industrial hub in the region of Northern Europe. Here you may have a relaxing time unwinding at any one of its cozy restaurants and gorge on the delicious food available. The city is always vibrating with fun, excitement and life. With pubs, cafes, bars and lounges just at a spitting distance... you are bound to have a great time in the city.
Malmö
The city of Malmo is a well known town of Sweden. Characterized by its continental aura, this city is distinct from all other cities of the country. If history is anything to go by then factually Malmo was once a Danish town that was a major commercial and agricultural hub. Today Malmo pulls hordes of tourists each year and bewitches them by its sheer elegance. High on architectural splendors and places of interest, this city is truly a tourist's haven.
Accommodation in Sweden is very easy to find. Sweden hotels are absolutely exquisite and offering the best of lodging experience to all its guests. Well equipped with all necessary facilities and amenities, Sweden Hotels also boasts of rendering world class service. From Discount Hotels in Sweden to luxurious ones ... you will find it all in the country.
Have a great time exploring the beautiful city of Sweden.
About the Author:
Please Visit:- hotels in Stockholm, Sweden Map, Malmo Hotels
Stockholm
Deemed as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Stockholm is the capital city of Sweden. The city is basically spread over 14 islands that lie between Stockholm Archipelago and Lake Mälaren. In the center is located the Old Town also known as Gamla Stan and Riddarholmen. Together the two boast of being called the largest and the well preserved medieval European city core that prides itself on a history dating back to as old as the 13th century. In the region of Gamla Stan is a great place to hit as here you will find many interesting palaces and historical monuments. Among the best sight is Royal Palace that is the largest one of its kind in Northern Europe.
Gothenburg
The city of Gothenburg is the second biggest town in Sweden. A popular destination, Gothenburg is also the cultural and industrial hub in the region of Northern Europe. Here you may have a relaxing time unwinding at any one of its cozy restaurants and gorge on the delicious food available. The city is always vibrating with fun, excitement and life. With pubs, cafes, bars and lounges just at a spitting distance... you are bound to have a great time in the city.
Malmö
The city of Malmo is a well known town of Sweden. Characterized by its continental aura, this city is distinct from all other cities of the country. If history is anything to go by then factually Malmo was once a Danish town that was a major commercial and agricultural hub. Today Malmo pulls hordes of tourists each year and bewitches them by its sheer elegance. High on architectural splendors and places of interest, this city is truly a tourist's haven.
Accommodation in Sweden is very easy to find. Sweden hotels are absolutely exquisite and offering the best of lodging experience to all its guests. Well equipped with all necessary facilities and amenities, Sweden Hotels also boasts of rendering world class service. From Discount Hotels in Sweden to luxurious ones ... you will find it all in the country.
Have a great time exploring the beautiful city of Sweden.
About the Author:
Please Visit:- hotels in Stockholm, Sweden Map, Malmo Hotels
Venice Hotels by Nancy Eben
The city of Venice in Italy is deemed as among the loveliest and most romantic holiday spot. Almost a lagoon five hundred years ago... Venice city today boasts of attracting millions of visitors to its land. Accommodations in the city of Venice are very easy to find. Venice hotels are both classic and modern at the same time. Offering the best of facilities and rendering world class service, Venice hotels are a class apart. The best time to make a visit to Venice is during the period between spring and fall season. This is the peak time when tourists and visitors from the entire world over visit Venice.
The areas comprising of island is considered to be the most beautiful of all places in Venice. If you plan to visit Venice any time sooner in the future make sure you do not miss the districts of San Croce,Castello, Dorsoduro, San Marco, annaregio Isola Della Giudecca, San Polo, and Lido di Venezia where you can savor the beautiful sight of awe inspiring historical buildings and quaint.
When you are in Venice, do not miss hr famous gondola rides across the Grand Canal. A little expensive, but these rides make for an experience of a lifetime. Enjoy the beautiful sights as you sit pretty in these Gondolas. And be mindful of bargaining... Besides gondolas you may even have fun riding on the Vaporetto which is a Water Bus and takes on a ride down the Grand Canal like gondolas.
Santa Maria della Salute
The Basilica of St. Mary of Salvation and health (in English) is among the most visited and photographed cathedrals in the country of Italy. Locally called as Salute, the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute is located in the picturesque location that lies between the Bacino di San Marco at the lagoon side and the Grand Canal. The interior and exterior of the Salute is absolutely breathtaking. Built in octagonal shape this cathedral is made of 100,000 piles of wood.
Scuola Grande di San Marco
Located in the vicinity of Campo San Giovanni e Paolo that is among the largest plazas in the city, the Scuola Grande di San Marco is a beautiful tourist attraction of Venice. The building once used to serve as the residential building to one of the six chief sodalities better known as Scuole Grandi of the city. Erected in the year 1260, this building got destroyed in a fire in the year 1485 and was then reconstructed again after twenty years. The decoration is done up with the intricate marbles typical of Renaissance classicism, the work done on arches and niches will remind you of Byzantine touch these are all architectural attributes of Venetian fashion.
Hotels in Venice are internationally renowned and have a class of its own. Since many tourists visit Venice every year, Venice hotels make sure that they leave no stone unturned to impress their lodgers. Falling in many categories, the city hotels of Venice are available in variety. From Cheap Hotels in Venice to luxurious ones... it is easy to find all of them here.
About the Author:
Please Visit:- Five Star Hotels in Venice,Venice Map
The areas comprising of island is considered to be the most beautiful of all places in Venice. If you plan to visit Venice any time sooner in the future make sure you do not miss the districts of San Croce,Castello, Dorsoduro, San Marco, annaregio Isola Della Giudecca, San Polo, and Lido di Venezia where you can savor the beautiful sight of awe inspiring historical buildings and quaint.
When you are in Venice, do not miss hr famous gondola rides across the Grand Canal. A little expensive, but these rides make for an experience of a lifetime. Enjoy the beautiful sights as you sit pretty in these Gondolas. And be mindful of bargaining... Besides gondolas you may even have fun riding on the Vaporetto which is a Water Bus and takes on a ride down the Grand Canal like gondolas.
Santa Maria della Salute
The Basilica of St. Mary of Salvation and health (in English) is among the most visited and photographed cathedrals in the country of Italy. Locally called as Salute, the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute is located in the picturesque location that lies between the Bacino di San Marco at the lagoon side and the Grand Canal. The interior and exterior of the Salute is absolutely breathtaking. Built in octagonal shape this cathedral is made of 100,000 piles of wood.
Scuola Grande di San Marco
Located in the vicinity of Campo San Giovanni e Paolo that is among the largest plazas in the city, the Scuola Grande di San Marco is a beautiful tourist attraction of Venice. The building once used to serve as the residential building to one of the six chief sodalities better known as Scuole Grandi of the city. Erected in the year 1260, this building got destroyed in a fire in the year 1485 and was then reconstructed again after twenty years. The decoration is done up with the intricate marbles typical of Renaissance classicism, the work done on arches and niches will remind you of Byzantine touch these are all architectural attributes of Venetian fashion.
Hotels in Venice are internationally renowned and have a class of its own. Since many tourists visit Venice every year, Venice hotels make sure that they leave no stone unturned to impress their lodgers. Falling in many categories, the city hotels of Venice are available in variety. From Cheap Hotels in Venice to luxurious ones... it is easy to find all of them here.
About the Author:
Please Visit:- Five Star Hotels in Venice,Venice Map
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