Destination: ItalyDestinationsFood and Drink 24 Culinary Hours In Salento by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande March 26, 2015 written by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande I have been visiting the region of Salento for the past 8 years. For those unfamiliar with this unspoilt part of Italy, rich in history and tradition, Salento is an area in the region of Puglia occupying the “heel” of Italy’s “boot”. Sun kissed for most part of the year, Salento is best known for its friendly welcome, Tramontana and Scirocco winds, white washed houses, baroque architecture, wonderful sandy beaches, crystal clear sea, not to mention its cuisine. A truly Italian holiday destination, which has finally found a well deserved place in international guides. The beauty of Italy is that each region has its own traditional dishes. What culinary delights can you expect to be served in Salento? Every region in Italy is associated with one type of pasta. In Puglia the regional pasta is “orecchiette” or “small ears” served with fresh tomato sauce and “ricotta salata” (salty ricotta cheese) or “cime di rapa” (turnips). Fresh fish caught daily in the Adriatic or Ionian sea includes mussels, squid, octopus and anchovies. Not to be missed is a plate of sea urchins as appetiser or served with linguine pasta. Best if eaten by the sea in one of the many private beach clubs. The climate is ideal for the production of wonderful vegetables such as tomatoes, artichokes, aubergines, watermelons and various types of beans and nuts. A rich variety of freshly picked fruit and vegetables can be purchased at rock bottom prices at the various weekly local markets. The region produces 25 DOC wines and most of these come from the Salento area of Puglia. Two such luscious examples are the internationally acclaimed Salice Salentino, a deep red made with the Negroamaro grape and the Primitivo di Manduria, made from the Primitivo grape. Everywhere you look you will see olive trees, so it will come as no surprise that Puglia also produces over 70 percent of Italy’s olive oil (and 15 percent of the world’s olive oil). We buy our organic extra virgin olive oil directly from the producer ALEA in Martano (http://www.olioalea.it/en). Quick snacks on the go include “pucce” (a sandwich made of pizza dough stuffed with cheese or vegetables); “taralli” (round crackers) which come in different flavours such as fennel, poppy seeds, spicy paprika, black pepper; “friselle” , yet another typical quick snack, which is basically a very dry bread you dip in water to add moisture and then you garnish with olive oil , garlic and fresh tomatoes. So simple and yet so tasty! “Frittini” or fried appetisers are also a tasty savoury snack, best served warm. I would suggest trying as well the “crema di fave e cicoria” (veloute’ of ceci beans), local escargots and “baccala’ alla salentina” (dried cod sprinkled with breadcrumbs, pecorino cheese and tomatoes). For breakfast, do like the locals. Order an espresso coffee standing at the bar while savouring a warm “pasticciotto” (small cake filled with creamy custard). Although it’s hard to be served really bad food in Italy, it is nevertheless handy to travel with some good addresses in your pocket. You won’t find a restaurant chain in sight in Salento and most places are small, family-run businesses with a deep passion for fresh, local, wholesome food. I am pleased to share with you my very own tried and tested restaurants in Salento. Please note that restaurants in Salento open late at night. Don’t expect to be served before 20.00! In Otranto L’altro Baffo Without doubt one of the best restaurants in Otranto run by Chef Cristina Conte. Just a stone’s throw from the Aragona Castle, Cristina together with sister Carmen and mum Pina, serve traditional recipes from Salento interpreted in a contemporary and innovative way. Except to eat linguine with “ricci di mare”, home made pasta, fresh fish, local sashimi, and delicious deconstructed “pasticciotto”. www.laltrobaffo.com Phone : +39 0836 80 16 36 Via Cenobio Basiliano, 23, 73028 Otranto (LE) L’Altro Baffo in Otranto In Lecce Pio Bove You won’t find a tourist in sight at Pio Bove. This is as Apulian as it can get, a butcher (“macelleria”) and steak house. Choose your favourite piece of meat at the counter and it will be cooked and served in the fashion you prefer. Phone: +39 0832 312579 Via SS. Giacomo e Filippo, 2/C, 73100 Lecce Pio Bove in Lecce In Tricase Ristorante Lemi This renown restaurant comes highly recommended and well worth a visit to experience the cuisine of its prestigious Chef, Ippazio Turco. Expect to eat fresh organic Mediterranean food, fresh fish, vegetables, pulses and pasta cooked with passion and using the very best local ingredients. www.ristorantelemi.it Phone: +39 347 5419108 Via V. Emanuele II, 16 – 73038 Tricase (LE) Ippazio Turco, celebrity Chef at Ristorante Lemí In Marina di Novaglie Ristorante Lo Scalo Right on the sea front and next to the small port of Marina di Novaglie. Possible the best sea view in Salento? Yet another unique address serving, as you would expect, fresh fish, home made pasta, juicy vegetables and exquisite local wines such as Chardonnays, Malvasia, Negroamaro and Primitivo. http://www.ristoranteloscalo.it Phone: +39 0833 533488 73035 Port of Marina di Novaglie (LE) Ristorante Lo Scalo in Marina di Novaglie WHERE TO STAY IN SALENTO https://www.passepartout-homes.com/holidays/Puglia/all By Paola Fiocchi, Director at Passepartout Homes March 26, 2015 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
DestinationsExperiencesIdeal for CouplesWedding Venues 5 top rental villas for weddings and other special events by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande March 23, 2015 written by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande Renting a luxury holiday villa in a unique location for a milestone event like a wedding, reunion or anniversary celebration is a memorable way to celebrate or commemorate a special day. This is also a way to share a special place with those you love and spend quality time with them, creating lasting memories. These five luxury villas in Passepartout Home’s exclusive property portfolio located in unique locations offer an exceptional setting for your special event to remember: Celebrating your wedding at Villa La Tosca An oceanside villa in southwestern France Villa La Tosca is a unique heritage beachfront villa built at the turn of the century and located just steps away from the ocean off the coast of southwestern France. Located on the Bay of Arcachon, a natural cove jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean, this is the perfect setting for beach and nature lovers. This elegant property has 4500 square metres of lush landscaped gardens which offer the perfect romantic venue for an outdoor wedding, followed by a reception by the natural spring water pool in a completely private setting. With 8 double bedrooms with attached bathrooms, this luxury heritage villa can sleep up to 15 guests, perfect for a small wedding party, special family gathering, or exclusive corporate event. Wedding at Villa La Tosca A tropical paradise on Mexico’s Riviera Maya Imagine saying your vows with your feet in the white sand and with the turquoise blue of the waters and palm trees of Mexico’s Riviera Maya as a backdrop. Many dream of getting married in the exotic setting of a tropical paradise: what better location than the beaches of the Caribbean Sea? Villa Esmeralda is located just off the shores of Puerto Morelos on the Riviera Maya, just south of Cancun on the eastern shore of the Yucatan Peninsula. This completely private beachfront villa furnished in a contemporary style has 6 bedrooms and many luxury amenities and services to ensure a stay to remember. The huge 70 square-metre beachfront deck overlooking the ocean is the perfect setting for a special event. Or how about boarding a yacht at the villa’s private pier and setting sail into the sunset? Tropical setting at Villa Esmeralda, Mexico An elegant island villa in Thailand Villa Riva sits on a hidden headland on the unspoilt northern shore of the Thai island of Koh Samui. This luxury holiday property offers an exclusive retreat in an exceptional and romantic setting, in a quiet location on a semi-private cove on the north-western coast of the island. This exclusive villa has 7 bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms spread out across the property, several multifunctional living spaces decorated with Asian artefacts and contemporary artwork, and a fabulous 32-metre infinity pool overlooking the sea. The specially designed covered platform complete with a marriage gazebo adjacent to a food and beverage service area and DJ podium is a popular venue for weddings, special occasions and corporate events. A highlight is the villa’s semi-private beach offering breathtaking sunset views over the bay to the neighbouring island of Koh Phangan. Dream wedding at Villa Riva, Koh Samui An elegant estate in a picturesque Sicilian coastal town Villa Giardini del Principe is a charming and elegant property which includes a large house, two independent cottages and a guesthouse set in a large botanical garden with stunning views of the hills and the sea, which is just 50 metres away. This luxury estate is located in a picturesque Sicilian coastal town situated between Palermo and Cefalù. The main house boasts a large terrace overlooking the sea and even a sea view from the bathroom. The four bedrooms on the upper floor all have private balconies overlooking the sea. The two cottages each have lush private gardens with a patio and barbecue. Perfectly suited for large groups with a capacity of 22 guests, the property has direct access to the beach as well as three large swimming pools, including a large heated Jacuzzi. A romantic gazebo and covered outdoor kitchen overlooking the pools offer the perfect spot for al fresco events in the vast green gardens. Villa Giardini del Principe, Sicily A hilltop retreat in the Tuscan countryside Villa La Borghese is a historical luxury Tuscan villa dating back to 1204 and carefully renovated by its owners in 1994, who took utmost care in preserving the villa’s original characteristics. The villa can welcome large groups with 14 spacious double bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, sleeping up to 28 persons. The property is made up of three adjoining buildings, creating a small hamlet, and also includes a wellness center with indoor hot baths, two swimming pools, a Turkish bath, sauna and a yoga room. The villa is located in the Tuscan countryside just 25 km away from the historic city of Siena in Tocchi, which is situated in the municipality of Monticiano, between the town of Petriolo, famous for its ancient Roman baths, and San Galgano, the site of a Cistercian abbey. The town is perched on a hilltop with a 360-degree view of the rolling hills of the Tuscan countryside. Receptions can be held in the Domus, a Roman-style gazebo set in a beautiful garden on the edge of the woods, or in the romantic rotonda above the vegetable garden, offering the perfect setting for romantic weddings and receptions. Villa La Borghese, Tuscany By Isabel Putinja, Travel Writer March 23, 2015 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Destination: Faroe IslandsDestinationsTravel News The solar eclipse in the Faroe Islands by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande March 18, 2015 written by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande The Faroe Islands are on every global news channel all week this week. Why? (In case you have been living in a cave?) Because these tiny, windswept islands between Iceland and Norway are the very best place in the whole world to watch the solar eclipse this Friday March 20 2015. That’s right. On the entire planet. Solar eclipse in Faroe Islands Five fun facts about this solar eclipse: This is the first solar eclipse of the year. March 20 is really special because it is also the March Equinox. A total solar eclipse coinciding with the Northern Hemisphere’s Spring Equinox hasn’t happened since 1662 and will not happen again until March 20, 2034. Only Svalbard and the Faroe Islands will show the sun totally eclipsed from land.It’s very dangerous to look directly at the sun and you need special protective glasses or a pinhole projector. There will be a lunar eclipse just two weeks later but that will not be visible from the Faroe Islands or anywhere in Europe! We asked Jens Kristian Davidsen, owner of The Blue Sail and The White Sail, and a passionate and learned authority on the Faroes, to tell us a little bit more from his unique personal vantage point. Jens told us that The Blue Sail was booked two years ago for the eclipse and all hotels and holiday accommodations are fully booked and many private homes have been made available for visitors to rent. The Blue Sail and The White Sail are two beautiful luxury apartments located in the capital of the Faroes, Torshavn. Jens is also opening a stunning eight bedroom villa later this year. Where is the very best place on the Faroes to watch the eclipse? There are many good venues in the Faroe Islands where you can see the eclipse, as long as you are looking in a direction of approximately 135 degrees you will see the sun. Please see this excellent web site where you will get a lot of information about the eclipse: http://bit.ly/1FCSL6h My biggest concern is how the weather is going to behave. I do not know if you have heard we do have a saying in Faroe Islands “you can easily experience all four seasons in one hour in the Faroe Islands”. Where will you be watching the eclipse, and why? Who will you be watching it with? This is a special event which we have to wait another 240 years to see again in the Faroe Islands. Some of the older generation in the Faroe Islands have experienced two total eclipses as we had one in 1954. It is very rare that you will experience two eclipses in you live at the same place. As I am a family man and not a fan of big parties I will be together with my wife and my two daughters at The Blue Sail . We will have a good breakfast and then just relax and enjoy the “darkness”. We will stay at The Blue Sail and enjoy it from there. Please see the attached picture which is from the 25th February 2015 from the terrace at The Blue Sail – maybe you can understand why I will watch it from the The Blue Sail? Sheep at Faroe Island.s Photo courtesy of BBC.co.uk What would be your perfect way to spend the day after the eclipse? When the total eclipse is completed we will have a nice launch talk with our family and friends and exchange our eclipse experiences. We will be staying in Torshavn during the day. There will be a number of activities during the whole day such as concerts, tours and many other things. During the night we are invited to a dinner party at one of the hotels in Torshavn together with guests from an English travel agency. I have been very much involved with the planning of their tour. At midnight there will be a big sing along in the centre of Torshavn : http://bit.ly/1GoNBJz. There may be up to 10.000 people there. Do you have any stories about the special things people have done to make sure that they get to watch the eclipse from the Faroe Islands? I heard a very good story today, it was from one of the villages that one guy said he would make sure he was having a pie during the totality just to make sure there at least was one ray at that time he he he he! I can see there are many various types of people in the streets in Torshavn: families with kids, some are on bicycles (which is not normal this time of year), and seven big passenger vessels in the Faroes: some of them hold around 1000 passengers. We do also have a lot of foreign cars on the roads. We have a lot of media coverage, including live BBC coverage. What I have heard is they will have a plane in the skies to transmit live pictures, and we have other TV and radio stations here as well. View from apartment The Blue Sail By Phileas French, Travel Writer March 18, 2015 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Travel Tips Questions to ask before renting a holiday villa by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande March 12, 2015 written by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande Today most holidaymakers looking for a vacation rental for an upcoming holiday book via an on-line web portal. The property description and photographs are usually enough to get a good idea of what to expect once they arrive on location. However, sometimes the information supplied by websites is not sufficient, photographs do not tell the whole story, and expectations are not met as a result. Websites do not always provide enough information to go by and it’s not easy to know exactly what to expect. For this reason, it’s important to ask the right questions before booking a holiday property. Villa Aegean View Here are a few key questions to ask before booking your holiday to avoid unpleasant surprises: What is the exact location of the property? Is it located in a rural area or in a town or city? Are there any shops, supermarkets and banks close by? Is it situated in a quiet area? How far is the nearest town? Sometimes the exact location of a property is kept secret for privacy reasons. Asking the right questions helps you get a good idea of what kind of surroundings your holiday villa is situated in. When was the property last renovated? Photographs can be deceiving. Ask when the photographs of the property were taken and when the villa was last renovated. Holiday villas should be regularly maintained so that a high standard of comfort is ensured. By asking when the property was last renovated, you’ll have an idea of whether the owners take good care of it. Are there any additional fees to pay? Sometimes the rates advertised do not include extra charges like tax, cleaning fees, a security deposit, and booking fees. If these are not clearly spelled out in the listing, do ask for details regarding extra fees. What is the cancellation and refund policy? This is a very important detail which shouldn’t be overlooked. Cancellation and refund policies can be flexible or very strict. Make note of any cut-off dates when a payment is required in case of cancellation and notify the home-owner immediately in case your holiday has to be cancelled or postponed. It could be a good idea to take travel insurance which covers the costs of cancellation in the event of an unexpected change of plans. Villa La Tosca Where can I read reviews of the property? Reading reviews written by other holidaymakers who stayed in the same property is an excellent way to find out what kind of experience and quality of comfort to expect. Check websites like Tripadvisor to see if the property has a listing, or ask the owner if reviews are available on an alternative site. Which amenities are included? Draw up a list of your needs and check the amenities list to see if everything is available in the vacation property. Is there a kettle? A washing machine? Do you need a microwave? Families with small children may require a high chair. Some homeowners may be happy to supply additional amenities. Just ask. What services are offered? Many luxury vacation rentals offer a variety of services which can include cleaning, a private cook, a personal masseur or physical therapist, concierge services, a travel guide, and the organisation of parties and events. If you have any special requirements, ask the homeowner or rental agency if these are available in the area. Which payment options are available? Make sure to find out the payment options available. Is there the possibility to pay by bank transfer or credit card? Are there any credit card fees? Is payment by Paypal an option? If your preferred mode of payment is not listed in the terms and conditions, ask if alternative payment methods are possible. What are the arrival and departure times? This is another important detail not to be overlooked. If you arrive via an early-morning flight, you would want to know if an early check-in is possible and if this incurs an extra fee. At the same time, confirm the check-out time and whether a late check-out fee would also apply. What are the transportation options in the area? If the holiday home is located in a rural area, you will require a car. Can the rental agency arrange for car rental? Is parking available at the property? What is the best way to get around? These are important questions to ask. Villa Palmier Are there any house rules? Ask in advance if there any house rules. Are pets allowed? Is there a maximum number of guests which could be accommodated in the property? Is a local manager available in case of any problems or questions? Ask who the local contact person is in case you have any questions or requirements during your holiday. By Isabel Putinja, Travel Writer March 12, 2015 4 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
DestinationsFood and Drink 24 culinary hours in Bruges by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande March 5, 2015 written by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande Since moving to Bruges, I have been asked by many friends and friends of friends to recommend nice places to eat while visiting the beautiful historical UNESCO town in West Flanders. Everybody is keen in avoiding the mediocre meals served at the overly-priced, badly- serviced restaurants and cafes around the Mark and Burg. It is proven that the best French fries or “frietjes” in town are served at the two stalls on the Markt square (don’t forget to add mayonnaise!). And with over 50 passionate chocolatiers and more than 100 sorts of biers (“Brugse Zot” to name a cult one), you are certainly not going to starve. Very few people however know that Bruges is actually a gastronomic mecca for those with finer palates. The city places itself on the menu with an impressive list of first-class restaurants.There are six Michelin starred restaurants and over 30 restaurants with accolades from GaultMillau and Bib Gourmand. I have compiled a list of my recommended places to eat and am pleased to share this with you. Make your table reservation well in advance and please note that, sadly, some of the best restaurants are closed on Saturdays and Sundays. FOR THOSE WHO DON’T GO LESS THAN 3 MICHELIN STARS Hertog Jan Located in a fully renovated farm in Zedelgem, close to the city of Bruges, where they grow their own vegetables, fruits and flowers, Chef Gert de Mangeleer and Joachim Boudens welcome you to a unique culinary experience of seasonal dishes. Best leave the kids at home. Reservation required. www.hertog-jan.com/en/ Loppemsestraat 528210 Zedelgem – Belgium+32 (0)50 67 34 46info@hertog-jan.com Hertog Jan – The kitchen FOR THOSE WHO PREFER ASIAN TO FRENCH FRIES Tanuki (Japanese) Best sushi, sashimi and teppanyaki in town. Reservation required. Children welcome although best at lunchtime. As each meal is freshly prepared, meals at dinner are slowly served. www.tanuki.be Chef Ivan VerhelleOude Gentweg 1 tel. +32 (0)50 34 75 12 MODERN FLEMISH WITH ITALIAN HEART Bistro Bruut Located along one of the most picturesque canals on the Groenerei, this is a small and cosy bistro offering superlative Flemish dishes and an incredibly good value lunch menu at €16. Reservation required. Meals may be too creative for kids palates, best to leave your little ones at home. www.bistrobruut.be Chef Bruno TimpermanMeestraat 9 +32 (0)50 69 55 09 CREATIVE FRENCH KITCHEN Rock Fort Restaurant and Bar in the old town but away from the hustle and bustle of the touristic sites. Reservation required. www.rock-fort.be Chef Hermes VanliefdeLangestraat 15 +32 (0)50 33 41 13 Rock Fort BEST BURGERS Ellis Gourmet Burgers Decently priced burgers, good and quick service. Located on a cute square in the old town, off the main shopping street. Unlike many restaurants in Bruges which are often closed during the weekend or shut their kitchens at 2.00 pm or 9.00pm , you can pretty much pop in Ellis at any time and be served a succulent burger. Great for those of you, me included, who cannot get used to the ridiculous Belgian opening hours. www.ellisgourmetburger.com/en/ Simon Stevinplein 14 +32 (0)50 80 00 00 BEST FOR COFFEE LOVERS I Love Coffee Espresso coffee aficionados must head to the best coffee place in town, Espressobar I Love Coffee. They roast their own beans and offer the perfect cup of coffee. And please, do not ask for “Decaf” coffee, like I did, or you will be thrown out of the shop. If however cannot tolerate caffeine, the bar offers a decent selection of teas and an impressive list of hot chocolates. www.ilovecoffee.be Sint-Jakobsstraat 10 +32 (0)498 516 340 I Love Coffee in Bruges OLDEST PUB IN TOWN Cafe Vlissinghe Celebrating 500 years this year, a visit to the oldest pub in town is a must. Since 1515, Café Vlissinghe is hiding in the beautiful historical Saint-Anne quarter. Ideal for a pub lunch inside or in the garden or for a nice beer in the evening. The unique atmosphere and the friendly ambience make Vlissinghe a favorite meeting place for Brugeans and for tourists from around the world. Make sure you ask for Chef Bruno’s signature fish soup. Please note, they only accept payments in cash. www.cafevlissinghe.be Blekersstraat 2 BEST FOR BAGEL LOVERS Sanseveria Bagelsalon First ever bagel boutique not far from the Vismarkt. Friendly service, cosy atmosphere. To take away or sit in. Our favourites are the the classic Lucy (smoked salmon and cream cheese) or the Elliot (Nutella and banana). The bagel salon also offers a couple of freshly prepared salads, quiches and a generous portion of soup. www.sanseveria.be/en/ Predikherenstraat 11 Sanseveria Bagelsalon For a full list of award-winning restaurants in Bruges visit https://bezoekers.brugge.be/award-winning-restaurants By Paola Fiocchi, Director, Passepartout Homes Bistro Bruut Brugge March 5, 2015 2 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
DestinationsExperiences What is the new luxury? by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande February 16, 2015 written by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande What is luxury? This is a question more and more people in the business of travel are pondering today as the needs of discerning travellers change and evolve along with current trends. As the founder and director of a luxury holiday villa rental company, I spend a lot of time discussing our clients’ needs with them so that they can choose the perfect holiday retreat that best suits their requirements. 18-holes private golf course at Chalet San Lorenzo. Luxury travel is no longer about taking a break in a five-star hotel with an infinity pool and a Michelin-starred restaurant. Many of our clients spend a lot of time on the road travelling for work and business, staying in generic hotels which offer a high level of comfort and all the luxury amenities, but often lack character and personality. When planning a holiday, they want to have a unique experience in a unique environment. This is why well-heeled but time-strapped clients like ours are increasingly looking for holiday properties which can offer them not only an exceptional setting but also authentic experiences. One of the pools at Villa La Borghese The new trends in luxury travel are things that money cannot buy. Here are a few: Complete privacy. Complete privacy is a high priority for many of our clients who spend a lot of time in the media spotlight. For them, the ultimate luxury escape is to retreat from the world and have a relaxing holiday in complete seclusion and with no possibility of their privacy being intruded on. Private holiday villas can offer the seclusion and privacy they require. Our luxury properties located on private islands or in remote locations are always in high demand for this reason. Many of these locations are not accessible by GPS and can only be reached by being guided by someone who knows its exact location. Silence. In a world where we are constantly assaulted by noise, silence now comes at a premium. When city dwellers look for a holiday break, they want to get away from the auditory overload of the big city and move as far away as possible from the stresses of modern life. Peace and quiet is the recipe for a relaxing holiday, with only the sound of the ocean or crickets chirping during the night as the only soundtrack. Authenticity. In a world of chain stores, chain hotels and chain restaurants, what many luxury travellers are looking for is not the familiarity of a known brand, but authenticity. A hotel suite will not do, they want to stay far off the typical tourist trail in a hillside villa on a Greek island, a traditional countryside masseria in Puglia, or a mountain farm in the Rhodope mountains of southern Bulgaria. The 10-meter in-door swimming pool at Villa Gella Priceless experiences. The owner of one of our exclusive properties in the Italian Dolomite Mountains offers his guests priceless experiences that money can’t buy. For example, he invites them to come and chop wood in the forest, or takes them mushroom hunting. It’s these simple ‘back-to-the-earth’ experiences that they appreciate most and very often have never had the opportunity to experience before. No gadgets. Thanks to laptops, smartphones and tablets we are connected and available almost 24 hours a day. Our increasingly overwired and wireless world is causing an information overload and a desire to move away from distracting gadgets. The ideal holiday is an escape from the incessant emails and text messages, where you can truly disconnect and retreat, and not be reachable at all. For more information on our luxury holiday accommodation and experiences visit us here. By Isabel Putinja, Travel Writer February 16, 2015 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Travel Tips 5 Reasons Why Private Jet Travel is the Way to Fly by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande January 13, 2015 written by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande Few people are enthusiastic about air travel, especially when you consider the tedious and time-consuming security procedures at airports, frequent flight delays, baggage restrictions, the inconvenience of lost or delayed luggage, and all the time wasted at airports waiting for connecting flights. Photo courtesy of Affluent Marketplace Luxury Directory When you take all these factors into account, nothing can beat the convenience, comfort and flexibility of travelling by private jet. Here are 5 good reasons why: 1/ Private jet travel allows you to fly to many more destinations. Private jets can use the many small regional airports which cannot accommodate the much larger aircraft used by commercial airlines. Some luxury resorts even have landing strips for guests arriving by private jet, or offer helicopter transfer services from the nearest airport. 2/ You choose the departure time. One of the best things about travelling by private jet is the flexibility it offers. You decide when you want to fly, and you don’t have to worry about arriving at the airport on time or missing your flight because the jet will wait for you. 3/ You don’t lose time waiting. Not only is there no need to arrive at the airport in advance, but you don’t have to go through the hassle of waiting in long lines at check-in or security. You can arrive just minutes before your planned departure. On arrival, there’s no waiting by the luggage carrousel either, you just step off the plane with your luggage and are sure that it will arrive each time without delay. Since you fly directly to your destination, there is no time wasted making flight connections either. 4/ You have more legroom. Having a seat by the window or the aisle is not a concern on a private jet, as space is not an issue. You’ll definitely have enough room to stretch your legs and even stretch out for a nap on a lie-flat bed. Some private jets are even fitted out with private suites, meeting rooms, and even shower and spa facilities. 5/ You don’t have to own a jet. You don’t have to have your own jet to benefit from all the advantages of private jet travel. There are many companies offering the possibility to charter a plane by the hour. Some commercial airlines like Air France and Emirates have even introduced private jet services or have teamed up with private charter flight operators to offer this exclusive service. Photo courtesy of Private Jets Review Want to fly with a private jet? You may want to have a look at these suggested companies: Netjets: https://www.netjets.com/AboutNetJets/Our-Companies/ Xojet: http://www.xojet.com/Our-Company/Best-Private-Jet-Company.asp Private Fly: http://www.privatefly.be Abelag: http://www.abelag.be Photo courtesy of Luxactu By Isabel Putinja, Travel Writer January 13, 2015 2 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Destination: family-friendly villasDestination: ItalyTravel Tips 24 Hours in Siena – Tuscany’s Medieval City by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande December 11, 2014 written by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande If you are visiting Tuscany I recommend you spend at least a day visiting the wonderful medieval city of Siena and have put together some suggestions of what you can see and do, as well as where you can stay. Your first stop really should be the heart of the city which is the Piazza del Campo where you can take in the atmosphere of Siena and the Fonta Gaia, the city’s largest fountain. Take a look at the amazing red brickwork and then take a stroll around the narrow streets and discover for yourself the different areas of this historical city. You will stumble upon some lovely little places to grab something to eat or quench your thirst after all that walking and may even decide to pick one for a relaxing dinner later on, where you can talk about all the things you discovered in Siena that day. Photograph of Duomo Siena by Oke via Wikimedia Commons A visit to the red bricked city hall Palazzo Pubblico is well worth your while for its view over the Campo. Do pay a visit to the Piazza del Duomo and wonder around the inside Siena’s splendid Gothic Cathedral (Duomo) and make sure you also go inside The Piccolomini Library and The Crypt under the Cathedral. It only costs €4.00 per person to get in and there are concessions for families. A visit to Siena is not complete without seeing the Duomo. One of Italy’s oldest private museums is Museo dell’Opera del Duomo and can be found on the south side of the Cathedral and is where you will be able to see some of the original statues from the front of the Cathedral. Photograph of Piazza del Campo by flissphil courtesy of Wikimedia Commons For those of you wanting to do some shopping, Siena has its fair share of small boutiques, clothes and shoe shops which you can find on Via Banchi di Sopra, the city’s main shopping street. The other two noteworthy areas are Via di Citta and Via Pantaneto. If you happen to be in Siena on a Wednesday there is an outdoor market close to Piazza Gramsci which opens at 7:00am and closes at 1:00pm with stalls selling anything from fresh vegetables and fruit to clothes and shoes. Then on a Friday morning, there is a Farmers Market where local farmers sell their fresh produce and you will be able to find some really good quality meat to take back and cook at home. Spending a day exploring a new city with children can be a challenge, particularly when they start getting bored and tired. Fortunately Siena has a few playgrounds where you can rest your weary legs and let the kids have some fun. You will find playgrounds at Piazza Amendola, another very close to Piazza Gramsci and a third close to Piazza del Campo in a park called Orti Dei Tolomei. View over Piazza del Campo from Appartamento La Duchessa Where to Stay Of course the best way to experience Tuscany and in particular Siena, is by renting a villa, be it for a family holiday or adult get away. Passepartout Homes has a wide selection of over 15 to choose from in Tuscany, ranging from the beautiful hilltop Casale Le Pratola just 15km from Siena with its amazing panoramic views of the Tuscan landscape and tempting infinity swimming pool, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind. Villa La Boghese, 25km from the city, is another great holiday location for friends looking to escape the 9 to 5 daily drudgery and can sleep up to 28 people in comfort, also offering wonderful views from its hilltop location. You can’t however beat the views provided by Apartment La Duchessa, right on the Campo, the ideal location to enjoy the Palio from the comfort of your living-room. Well, this is called VIP Treatment! So whatever you plan to do on your next holiday to Italy, if you happen to be in Tuscany, a day walking around Siena taking in the sights is a day well spent. Poolside at Casale Le Pratola in Gaiole in Chianti By Simon Burrell, Editor-in-Chief of Luxury Travel Website www.omotg.com December 11, 2014 0 comments 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Destination: family-friendly villasFamily TravelTravel News Multigenerational family holidays: a continuing trend by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande December 8, 2014 written by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande Family holidays are no longer about mom and dad travelling with the kids – today grandma and grandpa are more and more likely to also join in the annual family vacation. Multigenerational travel, where at least three generations of a family travel together on holiday, is a steady trend. The 2014 edition of the Virtuoso Luxe Report (http://blog.virtuoso.com/return-on-life/whats-hot-in-the-2014-luxe-report/), which examines international luxury travel trends, has identified multigenerational travel as a top trend for the past four years in a row. I have noticed this increasing trend, and definitely seen an increase in multigenerational travel among our clients booking our luxury holiday villa rentals for a family holiday. We are receiving more and more enquiries for a villa large enough to accommodate parents and kids, and also grandma and grandpa. There seems to be several possible reasons for this holiday trend. Modern families lead increasingly busy lives and often don’t have time to spend ‘quality time’ together with grandparents. A multigenerational family vacation is a great way to reconnect and have shared experiences that become cherished memories. Choosing an exotic holiday destination abroad is also an increasingly popular way to celebrate a special occasion or milestone together with the whole family. The Dimitris and Carbonis on holiday in Spain A shared holiday experience is also a good way to bring families together who live on different continents, often with a ‘middle point’ destination selected for everyone’s travel convenience. Villa La Tosca, a spacious luxury beachfront villa in south-western France, is a popular multigenerational family holiday destination. Families who live in different corners of the world come here to spend time together and share a holiday memorable experience. A holiday villa rental is ideal for large families travelling together. There are common living spaces for the whole family to come together, and multiple bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms offering enough privacy for everyone. Fully-equipped kitchens provide the opportunity for family members to prepare a meal together, or if they have a busy holiday schedule planned, they can use the services of the villa’s cook who can plan the menu, shop for ingredients and cook up three meals a day. Many exclusive villas also offer other convenient services like childcare, maid services, and spa facilities. Countryside villas in France and Italy are ideal for family holidays because they have a lot to offer: excursions to nearby towns, visits to vineyards and mills, outdoor activities, markets and fabulous food. There’s a variety of activities with something to please everyone. Today holiday villa rentals in exotic locations across the world can be easily researched and booked online. High-quality photos and testimonials of the property written by other visitors provide an accurate idea of what to expect from the property. When booking with a reputed villa rental company with an exclusive property portfolio, you can be sure you’ll be booking a great family vacation. Here are some of the unique luxury holiday villa rentals which are part of Passepartout Home’s exclusive property portfolio that are especially popular with families: Villa La Tosca is a gorgeous 8-bedroom / 8 bathroom beachfront villa just steps away from the ocean on the coast of south-western France. Villa Sasa is a spacious and elegant 3-bedroom villa located on the exotic Thai island of Koh Samui. Masseria La Raganella Celeste is a delightful 6-bedroom family home located in a secluded, centuries-old olive grove in beautifully rugged region of Puglia, South Italy. Casale Le Pratola is a scenic 5-bedroom/bathroom farmhouse villa located on a private hilltop in the middle of the lush countryside of Tuscany. By Isabel Putinja, Travel Writer December 8, 2014 1 comment 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail