Sweet Sensations of Venice

Italy is known for their delicious pasta and decadent desserts, and Venice is no exception. Cited as the home for many fan favorites, including the Bellini, Venice is a food lover's dream. After indulging in a plate of risotto al nero di seppia, be sure to save room for a delectable dessert! The following desserts are ones you must try!

Fruit Tart

Gelato

A sweet treat to enjoy during hot Italian summers or year-round, gelato is a not a dessert you should miss. Venice has several wonderful gelaterias where visitors and locals can experience the delicious dessert. 

Frittelle

Overfilled with cream or raisins and candied orange peel, and dipped in sugar, these delectable doughnuts are the perfect mid-day treat.

Tiramisu

This light yet rich dessert is an Italian classic. Made with espresso-soaked ladyfingers and layered with airy mascarpone creme, tiramisu is the perfect treat to reward yourself with at the end of your day.

Fruit Tart

Gelato

Frittelle

Tiramisu

Ready to have us help you plan your Venetian vacation?  Click on the link below and we will help you every step of the way!

Savory Dishes That Are Unique to Venice

Italy is abundant in diverse, eclectic dishes. No matter where you choose to go throughout the country, you'll get an entirely new dining experience. For instance, when you head towards the lagoon, you'll get to enjoy Venetian cuisine, and if you head towards the shores of the Adriatic Sea, you’ll get to experience traditional seafood dishes.

Of course, upon visiting Venice, you must try some of their most authentic, delicious dishes. So, in case you’re not sure where to begin, here is a list of the most popular delights…

Spaghetti in Nero di Seppia

This charcoal-colored pasta looking dish is pieces of squid slow-cooked in tomato sauce. The charcoal color comes from the ink of the squid, which as added after the preparation is complete.

Sarde in Saor

Over a reduced flame, onions are cooked until they become clear and fragrant. Pine nuts, raisins, and lastly, sardines are then mixed in with the onions to create this delightfully tasty dish. 

Fritto Misto

This divine dish is simply shrimp, fishballs, and calamari all breaded and deep-fried to perfection. Although many restaurants serve this dish, they all add their own flavors, bread topping, and touches, so don't hesitate to try them all!

Baccala Mantecato

For hours, dried codfish is cooked until the bone is nearly dissolved. It is them creamed with oil to the most impeccable consistency. This makes a great late-night spread for bread and is even better paired with some Venetian wine.

Bigoli in salsa

Onions, anchovies, and fennel seeds are added to the sauce of this magnificent Venetian whole wheat pasta dish. This is one of Venice’s signature cuisines and a must-try!

Tramezzino

This snack entails using pieces of bread in the shape of a triangle and filling them with all sorts of delicious foods such as cheese, tomatoes, artichoke, olives, and more. The options are endless!

Moeche Fritte

These small crabs are breaded and fried whole without the shell. You will find this delicacy served at many fancy Venetian restaurants.

Fegato Alla Veneziana

This dish is a Venetian past-time. In fact, it's a past-time for many cultures. It is liver fried up and laid over a bed of slow-cooked onions.

Castraure

These vibrant colored violet artichokes are picked prematurely then boiled. You won’t even have to peel it, take a bite, and enjoy!

Fiori Di Zucca

When you think of popular Italian dishes, you might not think of zucchini flowers, but you should! These delicate blossoms are a summertime staple and very popular in Venitian cuisine. Scan the menu for fried zucchini flowers stuffed with cheese, and you'll be in for a treat. If you're feeling adventurous, stop by a local market, pick up some fresh blossoms and try making them on your own. A little batter and some aioli is all you need!

Spaghetti in Nero di Seppia

Sarde in Saor

Fritto Misto

Baccalà mantecato

Tramezzino

Moeche Fritte

Fegato Alla Veneziana

Castraure

Fiori Di Zucca

Ready to try these delicious dishes yourself?  Click on the link below and we will help you every step of the way on planning your vacation to Venice!

"Must see sights" in Venice

After spending time getting wonderfully lost on the streets of Venice, head to higher ground for a more scenic view. Atop the Campanile di San Marco, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city below along with the lagoon, Piazza San Marco, and neighboring islands. Originally built as a lighthouse, this 323ft bell tower is a great place to start or finish your day in Venice.

Ready to have us help you plan your Venetian vacation?  Click on the link below and we will help you every step of the way!

Burano Island..just a day trip, that you won't forget!

Known for handmade lace and colorful homes, the picturesque island of Burano is a great escape from the crowded streets of Venice. The tradition of the brightly colored houses is said to have been a way for fishermen to spot the island when they returned home from the sea. When you take the ferry from Venice to Burano, you'll see why this worked as this colorful city begin to appear on the horizon.

Burano Island

Burano at dusk

Ready to have us help you plan your Venetian vacation?  Click on the link below and we will help you every step of the way!

Piazza San Marco

The Piazza San Marco in Venice is one of the most historically significant locations in the city. If you stand in the middle and look around, you will find yourself surrounded by major landmarks of Venitian history. The San Marco Basilica is unmistakable, but take notice of the three flag poles in front. They are former ship's masts that once represented the kingdoms Venice conquered. The Florian, on the perimeter of the piazza, is also considered to be the oldest café in Europe. What other hidden facts will you uncover when you visit Venice?

Piazza San Marco

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Venice: entertaining to many senses...music my favorite

Part of the charm of Italy comes from the music that can be heard on every street corner. Fall into the rhythm of the day as you venture through the city. With live music all over the city, don't be surprised if you find yourself wanting to dance in the piazza. Let the music serenades you as you explore the magical city of Venice.

Want to personally hear the music of Venice for yourself? Let us help you plan your vacation to this amazing location. Click on the link below and we will help you every step of the way!

"That's the way we get by"...in Venice!

Getting around Venice is surprisingly easy. Once you arrive, you will find no shortage of boats to take you around canals. Hop on the Vaporetto for quick and easy transport along the Grand Canal and neighboring islands. If you want something a little more efficient than a gondola but more relaxed than the Vaporetto, look for the classic Venitian water taxis. Some even offer private tours around Venice!

Want to experience this mode of transportation for yourself? Let us help you plan your amazing trip to Venice, Italy! Click on the link below and we will help you every step of the way.

Waterways and Gondoliers...

Venice is a city perhaps best explored by water. With 150 canals running through the city, there is just as much to see by boat as there is on foot. The city itself was built on several small, marsh-like islands, which helped to create the intricate canal system and floating city effect. In Venice, the canals are treated like streets and still serve a functional purpose for resident Venetians.

When you picture Venice, you undoubtedly picture a gondola floating along the canals. These carefully designed boats date back to the 11th century and were once used as the primary form of transportation between the islands. Gondoliers represent one of the oldest trades in Venice, and they must complete rigorous training before they can take tourists around the canals.

Gondolier

Ready to have us help you plan your Venetian vacation?  Click on the link below and we will help you every step of the way!

Venice, Italy...a location you must visit on your vacation to Italy!

Is Venice, Italy on your bucket list? Would you like to take a ride on a Gondola down a waterway in Venice? If you answered yes to any of these questions, let us help you plan your next adventure to Venice, Italy! Take a peek at this video about Venice and then click on the link below so we can help you every step of the way of planning your trip.

#4. Cruise Along the Coastline

Along the coastline, you will find an assortment of entertaining things to do as you cruise aside the water's edge taking in all of its beauty. Enjoy ongoing views from a cliff's edge at El Malecon de Miraflores, take pictures with your loved one at the sculpture of two lovers, or head to the beach for some fun in the Pacific Ocean.

Nazca Lines

Situated in the Peruvian coastal plain about 250 miles south of Lima Peru is a collection of enormous geoglyphs called the Nazca lines. The designs are etched into the desert sands covering an area of nearly 1,000 sq. kilometers. The giant geoglyphs were created by ancient Nazca culture in South America, presenting different plants, animals and shapes. The Nazca Lines is over 2,000 years old and the best way to appreciate this UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994 is going up into the air because of its gigantic size. Researchers, for over 80 years, have studied the Nazca lines but despite the long years of research they still find this vast ancient site to be a mystery.

Nazca Lines

#3. Explore Boho Barranco

As Peru’s trendiest and most artistic region, Boho Barranco attracts many sightseers. Sitting atop a ravine, the views from the district seem to go on forever as you wind through the streets to find all the sweet little art galleries, museums, and boutiques buy souvenirs. Many of the galleries showcase the making of their art forms and let their guests reach into their artistic side by getting hands-on.

#2. Primitive Architecture

Large colonial structures with meticulously detailed features are all over the City of Lima. The vibrant golds and rich colors are sure to catch your attention as you walk through the streets and head downtown.

#1. Peruvian Food and Drink

Street Food Carts

One of the city's most sought-after features is its abundance of street food vendors. The inexpensive street food options are endless and an absolute delight to the palette. Famous chefs primarily own the street carts found in Lima and hold a high standard on the quality of the food they decide to offer.

Ceviche

Ceviche is seafood,usually made from fresh raw fish. It’s prepared in a centuries-old method of cooking, curing the seafood in citrus juices such as lemon or lime instead of heat. Locals became so accustomed to the process of preparation and consumption of ceviche in parts of Mexico, Central, and South America. This easy to prepare dish may either be eaten as a first course or main dish, depending on what it’s served with. In Peru, Ceviche is complemented with slices of cold sweet potatoes on the side, which is the usual serving suggestion, but it can also be served with corn-on-the-cob on the side.

Pisco- Peruvian beverage

Native to Peru, Pisco is a light brandy that is created by the winemakers of the nation. The foamy sour drink infused with bitters is one of the most favored by connoisseurs from all over the world. If Pisco is a little too bitter for your palette, have it mixed with ginger ale, splashes of lime juice, and topped with a cherry. This tasty alternative is called the Chilcano.

Ceviche

Peruvian peppers

Pisco cocktail

Lima, Peru

Did you know that many of Peru’s major cities lie in the country’s desert and that includes Lima? Lima is the capital and largest city in Peru. With its bustling city life, rich culture, and eye-catching architecture, there's so much to see and do that it could take several vacations to the land to truly encounter it all. The entertainment found within the city's borders surely is a treat to all tourists.

The National Geographic Society splits the coastline of Peru into two deserts: the Sechura Desert from the northern border to the inland city of Nazca and from there the Atacama Desert which connects it to the Northern border of Chile. Some activities in the city are exploring museums, the food, and the nightlife. Lies at the core of the Andes and the Atacama in Southern Peru is Arequipa or what they call the “White City” is surrounded by beautiful hot springs and the deepest desert canyon on Earth, the Colca Canyon. If you’re an adventure seeker, you’d definitely love this place!

Since there's no shortage of things to do and Lima may overwhelm its newcomers, we've narrowed it down to four things that all tourists should experience during their visit. Stay tuned this week for daily posts about what entertaining things to do in Lima, Peru!

Lima, Peru

Peruvian Desert

Huacachina

Huacachina is a tiny desert haven located just west of the city of Ica in Southwestern Peru. This little village surrounds a body of green waters called Huacachina Lagoon. Framed by palm trees, the water and mud from the area are said to be therapeutic. A stroll around the shore of the lagoon will lead you to some bars and clubs. There are also some dune buggies aka beach buggies scattered around the sand dunes. The lagoon was quite a hit to the people of Lima up until the 1950s. The years passed and it was more or less abandoned. It wasn’t until the 1990s when this tiny village caught the attention of visionary people and businessman. They decided to recreate it and it’s now made it to the list of tourism hot spots in Peru.

Huacachina

Oasis- Huacachina

Lakes of Peru- Lake Titicaca and Humantay Lake

Lake Titicaca:

Located at a very high altitude, at over 3800 meters above sea level is one of the most magnificent lakes in the world, Lake Titicaca. It is situated between Bolivia and Peru. A tour around Titicaca is an absolutely memorable experience for anyone. The town of Puno is the best place to stay when coming over for a visit. There is also the fascinating town of Challapampa if you plan to visit the Bolivian side of the lake. It’s home to the famous labyrinth (Chinkana). What else is there to see? You also shouldn’t miss the biggest island of the lake, Isla del Sol (Island of the Sun).

Fun Facts about Lake Titicaca:

1.     One of South America’s largest lakes, it is the world’s highest navigable body of water. Simply put, it’s the highest lake in the world that boats can navigate.

2.     It is said to be the birthplace of the Incas. They believe it to be the birthplace of the sun and its people and essentially where the world began hence it is called “cradle of the world”.

3.     60 million years ago, a massive earthquake hit the Andes Mountains. It split the range in two creating a hollow in the middle, which was then filled with water from melting glaciers, forming Lake Titicaca.

Humantay Lake:

A full day trek will take you to the enthralling sight of the Humantay Lake. A sight to behold, because surrounding the turquoise waters are the remarkable Salkantay and Humantay Peaks. The lagoon is formed by the thaw of the Humantay Mountain. In effect, it reveals an enthralling landscape of the Mollepata district. Annually, the tourist spot is visited by shamans and tourists from all parts of the world to leave offerings to a deity that represents Mother Earth in the Inca culture. They call this deity, Pachamama.  Latin America boasts of numerous natural beauty hidden in its countries like Peru.  Truly, one magical destination in Peru you shouldn’t miss.

Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca

Humantay Lake

Cordillera Blanca (“The White Mountain Range”)

Game for some serious trekking? Then explore The Cordillera Blanca or “The White Mountain Range” which is a part of the Peruvian Andes. It is also coined as the highest tropical mountain range on the planet. Both located in the Cordillera Blanca, you will find Huascaran which is the highest tropical mountain and the world’s most beautiful mountain, Alapayo. It’s possible to climb the mountain all year round but the best time of the year is between April to September, May to October being the driest season. The trails are very dangerous during the wet season and some of the popular trekking routes are closed during this season like the Santa Cruz and Huayhuash trails. I’d love to help you plan your trip so be sure to pick up the phone and call me or send me an email when you’re ready to start planning.

Sunrise over the Cordillera Blanca

Trekking the Cordillera Blanca mountains

Machu Pichu and the Inca Trail

Do you have Machu Picchu listed in your itinerary? Here is some info you wouldn’t want to miss. Machu Picchu has no airport and no roads between Cusco going to Machu Picchu. How do you get there? You need to go to Cusco city or Ollantaytambo train station.  You can ride the train to Machu Picchu or alternatively hike through the Inca trail. There are also daily bus services or taxi cabs between Cusco and Ollantaytambo. You can also find bus services between Machu Picchu Town (Aguas Calientes) and Machu Picchu Inca citadel on the top mountain.

Machu Picchu is found in the Andes Mountains in Peru. The Incan citadel was built in the 15th century, believed to be a religious site for Inca leaders. This olden civilization was said to be washed out by the Spanish invaders in the 16th century. The majestic fortress spans to a spectacular 5-mile distance. Machu Picchu is a famous man-made wonder, which attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists every year just to see the marvelous sunset, quite a breathtaking backdrop to the magnificent ancient stone monuments.

The Inca Trail is the most well-known trek in South America. Many rated it to be among the top 5 treks in the world. Who wouldn’t be mesmerized with the combination of breathtaking mountain scenery, lush cloud forest, subtropical jungle, and the must-see,  Inca paving stones, ruins, and tunnels. The highlight of the trail is the exhilarating view of Machu Picchu, the enigmatic “Lost City of the Incas”. It would normally take trekkers four or five days to complete the “Classic Inca Trail” but a two-day trek from Km 104 is also doable. Time to get those hiking boots ready…

Machu Pichu

Getting to Machu Pichu

Trekking the Inca Trail

Peru-no shortage of things to do here!

Are you an adventure seeker and love exploring the great outdoors?  Is South America on your bucket list?  If so, you might want to check out the country of Peru.  Peru seems to be a hidden gem yet provides so many things for its visitors to do: beautiful hikes to lakes, trekking trails, unique culture, and so much more! 

Take a peek at this video about Peru and let us help you plan your next unforgettable vacation!

Night Life in Dubai

Dubai is magical after the sun goes down, and many people frequent this city for its nightlife and ultramodern architecture. From adventurous night safaris in the Arabian deserts to the best nightclubs, there's no end to how much you can explore with the best of Dubai tour packages. The Uptown Bar at the very top of Jumeirah Beach Hotel is a place where you can relax outside while enjoying the cool Arabian breeze and admiring one of the most beautiful views in the city.

Dubai is the city that never sleeps. From night markets to food tours, there's no excuse to stay in once the sun goes down. With more than 30 glow-in-the-dark installations created by 150 artists and spread across 40 acres of park, Dubai Glow Garden is one of those city spots best appreciated after dark. Witness the spectacle of the Dubai Fountains show, test your swing in the dark at the glowing mini-golf course hidden in the depths of WAFI Mall, experience Dubai Creek by night from the comfort of a luxury dinner cruise and tackle your fitness goals at a 24-hour spa. Perk up your nightlife in Dubai!

Dubai-City that never sleeps